Ovens and Murray Advertiser 170524

Beechworth mum Joanna Schirrman with two-year-old son Spencer French enjoyed a special time at last Friday’s early Mother’s Day celebration at Beechworth Community Early Years Learnings Centre.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley A SPECIAL DAY

No splash on pool pleas

Cost remains the ongoing barrier in funding an indoor swimming pool facility in Beechworth ggggpy

PROHIBITIVE cost remains the ongoing barrier for Indigo Shire Council to fund an indoor swimming pool facility in Beechworth at more than $14 million.

At council’s Tuesday night meeting, CEO Trevor Ierino said a feasibility study undertaken by council and released in October 2021

BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au

had been considered and acknowledged in the December council meeting of that year, but significant cost and investment had prevented further action.

Mr Ierino said strong support for the indoor heated pool by the Beechworth community had been noted in council’s resolution.

The study had focused on three options for the Beechworth Pool with replacement of pool structures at the existing site, a new outdoor facility at the existing or an alter-

native site, and a new indoor pool facility at the existing or an alternative site.

In the resolution at the December 2021 meeting, council had acknowledged significant cost and investment involved not-with-standing the strong support for a new facility by the Beechworth community, any proposal to

replace the existing Beechworth pool was not feasible.

Mr Ierino said council had prioritised advocacy to the state and federal governments to address issues of replacement or upgrades to aquatic facilities, and creating enhanced funding programs which could reduce the cost to small rural shires

when faced with aquatic facility replacements or upgrades.

Funding from the state and federal government was to be sought from other agencies to support option two for a first stage one development ($10m) at the existing Beechworth Pool site.

■ Continued page 6

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Looking out for our koalas

By CORAL COOKSLEY

AN OVENS Landcare Consortium facilitator will next Friday deliver a talk on koalas in the North East.

Hosted by the Three Flats Landcare group at the Yackandandah Public Gallery, Jim Blackney from Stanley, with extensive experience in wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration, will shed light on the local North East koala population, their behaviour and habitat needs.

Mr Blackney will also talk about various threats to koalas, as well as steps to take if an injured koala is found.

“People will find out what makes them tick as well as problems faced, with them being threatened animals,” he said.

“We’ve had big declines in the population in Queensland and New South Wales, so it’s a concern, but there is a strong population across Victoria and particularly in the North East.”

He said fires had badly affected koalas, but numbers had built up again in the North East.

In various park management, conservation, research and consultancy roles throughout his career, Mr Blackney said he had worked with koalas for a lifetime.

“There’s actually a lot we still

don’t know about them,” he said.

“But one of the things I like about koalas is they actually will live with us and are pretty chilled, but they are in a bit of trouble so they need some help.”

Mr Blackney said koala mortality on roads, the Chlamydia disease and dogs are problems for the local native marsupials, with the major threat in the region being roads.

“They don’t like going on the ground if they don’t have to because that places them at risk,” he said.

With a low nutrient diet of eucalyptus leaves, Mr Blackney said koalas have a coping mechanism of sitting and sleeping to digest toxins.

“There are things we can do to encourage them, such as good pet management with dogs, watch out for them on the roads and from a landcare perspective have development planning with trees,” he said.

“Retaining native tree cover when developing is a key principle, with a set number of guidelines available in different states at different levels.”

For more information about the event ‘What Koalas Want’ being held from 7pm to 9pm on Friday May 24. contact Kerrie on 0418 427 730 or email landcare.kerrie@gmail.com.

Renée Nightingale Owner Albury, Wodonga and Wangaratta

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Sarah Crockett-Sibraa Office Manager Albury

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HOOKED ON KOALAS: Mid Ovens Landcare Consortium facilitator

Jim Blackney will give a talk about koalas hosted by the Three Flats Landcare group in Yackandandah next week. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

GREAT SOUTHERN LIGHTS: A stunning photograph of the Aurora Australis captured by Beechworth’s Joanne Russell on Saturday night showcased the awe of people around the shire as the strongest geomagnetic storm event in 21 years could be seen around the globe.

Burke Museum showcased in national awards

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A CATEGORY winner in this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful National Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards received their prized trophy on Monday.

The award was accepted on their behalf by local entry organisers at a gala presentation evening held in WA’s remote outback town of Gascoyne Junction.

The Burke Museum won the Heritage and Culture category for its People of

Beechworth Exhibition.

The exhibition linked past history with today’s modern vibrant community, where 10 residents had been matched with historical people and collections.

Indigo Shire Council’s Historic Precinct and Visitor Experience manager, Jen Allan, said the museum was thrilled to accept the award on behalf of the entire community.

Ms Allan said the exhibition showcasing an incredible community had been

funded by bushfire recovery grant, a generous family donation as well as Indigo Shire.

She said after having such a challenging time through bushfires and COVID, the museum wanted to showcase the community.

“People had amazing resilience and strength through that time and we still have incredible stories from our community coming out every single day,” she said.

“The exhibition is a living history and one of the first regional museums to do

Draft budget to go

on public exhibition

INDIGO Shire Council has endorsed its draft 2024/25 budget this week, which will now be placed on public exhibition for the next 21 days.

In endorsing the draft, councillors acknowledged the challenges of delivering a balanced budget that meets council’s long-term financial sustainability goals, without the need for new borrowings and staying within the rate cap.

Mayor Sophie Price said council have been able to achieve a draft budget that enables them to continue to deliver quality services, renew and maintain assets and propose an ambitious capital works program.

“In preparing this draft, we’ve had to balance current

economic factors, such as inflation, with ensuring that we are meeting the needs of our community, largely expressed through our pre-budget community engagement,” she said.

“We received 87 responses to our pre-budget survey and again the feedback reflects the community’s desire for prioritised spending on maintaining and enhancing existing infrastructure, such as roads, drains, footpaths and community buildings, alongside a strong emphasis on promoting community well-being.

“To this end, Council is proposing to spend more than $4M on roads, bridges, footpaths, drainage, community facilities and council buildings, which is part of a

huge $18.7M capital works program, of which $11.6M is being carried forward from the current budget to complete projects already approved.

Cr Price said while rates and municipal charges will increase by 2.75 per cent, there will be a reduction in the cost of kerbside bin collection, with council passing on savings from its new waste contract direct to ratepayers.

“Taking all this into consideration, we believe this draft budget reflects strong prudent financial management, ensuring our long-term financial sustainability,” she said.

Also on exhibition, is the Council Plan 2021-2025 Year four review.

something like this.

“It took many people - staff members, volunteers, and the community who have come in and shared their stories, their passion, and put their incredible skills and knowledge to work to make this whole exhibition come together.

“The Burke Museum would not exist without our amazing volunteers, our friends group and all of the local residents who come in and support us every day as well.”

Ms Allan said the national award added to one received from the museum industry for the exhibition.

One of two local entry organisers, Anne Wilson, said the pair are over the moon with the national award for its category.

“It showcases what a fantastic museum it is,” she said.

“The award is something everyone in town should be proud of.”

Beechworth Honey’s Bee School and Indigo Future Proof Action Group for Young Legends also won their different categories.

With Beechworth crowned as overall win-

ner of this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful National Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards, entry organiser Iris Mannik said Beechworth will be hosting next year’s national awards gala event.

Iris said the trophy received for this year’s national win is made from a rare multi-coloured stone known as Mookaite mined in the Kennedy Ranges not far from Gascoyne Junction.

“It’s the only place in the world where it’s mined,” she said.

PROUD: Local KAB entry organisers Iris Mannik (left) holding two other category award trophies, Anne Wilson with the striking trophy for Beechworth’s national win and Indigo Shire Council’s Historic Precinct and Visitor Experience manager Jen Allan with the museum’s award.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Grant supports Neighbourhood House community garden

Chance to give ratepayers some relief

By CORAL COOKSLEY

QUERCUS Beechworth

staff and volunteers are thrilled to have received an Australia Post grant to buy much needed storage and equipment for its community garden activities.

The Neighbourhood House is one of more than 150 grassroots community and not-for-profit groups across Australia each receiving up to $2000 in funding through its annual People of Post grants.

Victorian community groups have been awarded 47 grants as part of the program, with the majority of projects focusing on mental health to help foster community connection, resilience and awareness.

Quercus community support coordinator Anne Threadgold said the local post office had nominated the organisation.

“This grant is for the garden and the gardeners and also helps with occupational health and safety,” she said.

High quality secateurs, snips, heavy duty canvas garden aprons, garden aprons, a heavy-duty steel storage cupboard with lockable drawers are among items the $2000 grant will cover.

“We have a marvellous team of 10 gardeners and all experts in their own areas,” Anne said.

“It’s really a great morale booster for them and for the visitor experience

with each improvement in the garden.

“We really appreciate our local post office.”

Head gardener Ian Threadgold said costs for gardening equipment add up.

“Funding from Australia Post is timely and valuable,” he said.

“As gardeners we’re able to contribute to such a wonderful community garden space and we get enormous pleasure from seeing people use the garden.

“People come in and have their coffee, have meetings, and schools bring students here for talks as well.

“A big feature in the garden is what we call grow free and it’s a really successful scheme where people bring in a surplus from their big or small gardens.”

Ian said the garden also drew visits from community garden staff from around other parts of Australia.

“We have a lot of information being swapped,” he said.

Australia Post general manager for Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the seventh year of the program had again helped local organisations across the nation continue to make a positive impact on their communities.

Ms Tracey said at the heart of this initiative is Australia Post team members who see first-hand the incredible work community groups do every day.

“Our People of Post grants give them the chance to give back,” she said.

Quercus Beechworth Community Garden offers various programs and initiatives to the community.

Besides the grow free stand for sharing produce, a seed saving project builds strength within the community to prepare for disasters or in the disaster recovery stage.

Quercus also runs seasonal workshops on sustainable gardening.

The grant supports the acquisition of storage and gardening equipment to be used during workshops and other activities.

A special Mother’s Day delight at Early Years Learning Centre

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEECHWORTH Community Early Years Learning Centre held an early mother’s and special person’s day last Friday.

Centre director Mary Holt said families joined their children in outside activities, while posies had been created by teacher Lourdes Lucani for mums and special persons.

“It’s really special to us to be able to have our families come and join us,” she said.

Beechworth mum Lauren Malins valued her time to connect with educa-

tors, catch up with other parents and see the space where children spend a lot of their time.

“It means everything to the kids and it’s great to see how happy they are here,” she said.

Another Beechworth mum Joanna Schirrman said most of the lead educators are all mums.

“I think it’s an opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day with them as well because they’re helping us as they as they share the care”, she said.

“They feel like our second mums for our kids.

“It’s nice to be here be-

cause often in the mornings I start work earlier than my husband and unable to drop Spencer off.

“It’s also nice to have that touch point with the other parents and educators too.”

A recent newcomer to the centre, Beechworth mum Bec said being included in events with the kids was important.

“You meet other parents in the learning centre community and build relationships with them.” she said.

“It’s my first Mother’s Day at the centre and means something for my son Harry as well.”

THINGS are pretty grim at the moment with high inflation.

Costs are up for rents, mortgage payments, groceries, petrol, everything is more expensive.

It’s time for some good news and Indigo Shire Council can make all the ratepayers a little happier.

In 2009 Indigo Council acknowledged responsibility for the rehabilitation of four closed garbage sites in the shire.

The council began collecting cash from rates and deposited it in a Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve.

In 2010 the name was changed to the Waste Management Facility Levy, and in 2016 the name was changed again to the Environmental Management Contribution (EMC) and by 2023 the EMC had grown to around $7.5 million.

That was a bit confusing.

Now you can’t have a big chunk of money like that just sitting around, so council started the Landfill Provision.

A provision is a non-cash item and it balanced out the EMC.

Council engaged a consultant engineer to provide an estimate for the rehabilitation and this set the value for the provision.

In 2022 the provision was $6.3 million, but in 2023 the Environment Protection Authority established a new standard for capping the closed sites and the 2023 valuation was reduced to $4.2 million.

So now we have it.

Council has collected around $7.5 million in cash from our rates and the cost of rehabilitation has been reduced to $4.2 million.

Council has collected around $3.3 million too much. The rehabilitation was collected as a special charge, and it cannot be used for other purposes, so now council should give the excess back to the ratepayers.

Robin McLiesh, Beechworth

ALL SMILES: Beechworth Australia Post manager Toni McDonald (right) and staff member Scott Saunders congratulated Quercus Beechworth Community Support co-ordinator Anne Threadgold who also manages the community garden, on the grant. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley.

ENJOYED: Beechworth mum Bec loved being with her twoyear-old son Harry last Friday at the Early Learning Centre.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Colourful season inspires exhibition artworks

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A SUCCESSFUL three-day art exhibition ‘Art in Autumn’ showcased a variety of work by a local community arts organisation.

Beechworth Art Council (BAC) held its second annual event earlier this month in the Town Hall, displaying 58 works by 35 of its members.

Officially opened by Regional Arts Victoria chief executive officer, Jo Porter, on Thursday, May 2, the exhibition ran across the weekend.

Beechworth colourist, abstract painter and BAC member, Kay Hampton, said the exhibition motivated artists to undertake more work, as the event helped her with ideas for colour used by other creatives.

She said a great camaraderie between artists prevailed at the exhibition opening night.

“You meet new people and talk about your art and if we didn’t have exhibitions like this it would be very isolating work for an artist,” she said.

“You would be in your little studio year after year and not getting out much to meet like-minded people.”

Kay said she picks out colours in the landscape or in other subject types from what she sees.

The artist said she had always loved drawing when young, but veered into a different career half way through studying fine arts,

returning to her childhood passion of art a decade ago.

BAC president Darren John Pope said hard-working voluntary BAC committee members, an advisory committee, as well as its guest artistic curator, OneofTwo Studio’s Dore Stockhausen, had brought the exhibition together.

“The exhibition’s curation had an artist’s eye and Dore had been amazing,” he said.

“The exhibition drew new

Ms Porter said public recognition for artists is vital.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for an artist to seek an audience,” she said.

“A community that can sustain artists in this way and invite them into a public space, like a town hall is incredibly important for a sense of place with a sense of pride.

“It includes an outcome for so-

Singing for dementia awareness

By CORAL COOKSLEY

YACKANDANDAH’S Robyn Watts joined around 60 people singing to raise funds for dementia research earlier this month.

Musical director of Wangaratta’s Vocal Dimension choir, Matthew Schultz, led the harmonious group at the second annual event held at the Beechworth Servicemen’s Memorial Hall.

Organiser Libby Day kicked off an inaugural event last year under the badge of ‘Molly’s Song’, in

memory of her mother Molly who had dementia.

Robyn said the day had meant an outing of friendship, and a great group of people singing together.

She said the event also raised dementia awareness, as people shared touching stories about experiences with family and friends.

“It was a fantastic day being with different people who didn’t know each other, she said.

“Singing was fun and there was a great sense of community which is re-

ally important.”

Mr Schultz said singing together is a wonderful way of building community togetherness and coming together for a common purpose.

“I think it’s well known that staying active is a good way to not go downhill quicker than you need to, and keeping your brain active is beneficial,” he said.

Libby said the day had been a lot of fun.

“We raised dementia awareness and some funds, and challenged our

brains in learning some new things,” she said.

Libby raised many dollars for the Dementia Australia Research Foundation for more than 15 years before moving to Beechworth, where she continues her mission.

Dementia Australia cites dementia as the second leading cause of death for Australians while it is the leading cause of death for women around the nation.

Beechworth Red cross members catered for a tasty lunch.

cial connectedness too.

“It is what keeps a lot of amazing arts activities going where collective initiative is what volunteers do.”

Darren said the longest running arts organisation in the shire with an affiliation to Regional Arts Victoria celebrates its 50th anniversary next year. He said a generous $975 logistics grant from Indigo Shire had helped stage the exhibition.

Cash a barrier on indoor pool pleas

■ From front page

A petition to push for an indoor swimming pool gathered more than 300 signatures in a month, which prompted the question at council’s meeting.

Mr Ierino said funding to be allocated in the 2022/2023 budget for replacement to existing Beechworth Swimming Pool liner and other capital works as a solution to ensure the pool remained operational in the short to medium period had been done but has been carried over to the 23/24 budget.

“The pool liner is currently out for tender and should be installed before the new swimming season starts,” he said.

The CEO said pools are extremely expensive, with heated indoor pools even more expensive.

“It’s extremely difficult for small shires to afford to replace their pools,” he said.

“The reality is that grant programs rarely provide funds for pools and the best we can access is a State Government one which provides up to $2 million for recreation facilities.

“For us to find the balance is quite cost prohibitive.”

Mr Ierino said both he and mayor Sophie Price have been strongly advocating for funds on a regular basis.

He said the pair had met with Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines again last week.

“We’ve honoured the decision for advocacy and are always advocating for the $10 million as best we can,” he said.

HARMONY: Around 60 people joined in the ‘Day of Singing’ led by musical director of Wangaratta’s Vocal Dimension choir Matthew Schultz earlier this month. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley

CREATIVE: BAC president Darren John Pope (left), curator Dore Stockhausen, Regional Arts Victoria CEO Jo Porter and BAC committee member Ali Rowe at the exhibition opening. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley.

members to exhibit with us too.”

COMING

TOGETHER:

The College community came together to play games, embrace and appreciate the cultural richness and heritage of all individuals on Harmony Day. (From left) students Chloe Pasquinelli, Gemma Corcoran and Zahra Hazeldine were playing a game of bocce.

Marian College: Smaller community - big opportunity

MARIAN College offers itself as an excellent option for any child and family who seek a school with deep connections to the local community, and who values a well-rounded education that nurtures academic excellence, personal growth, and strong moral values rooted in Catholic traditions.

Marian College is proud of the connections and mutual support it has established within the local and wider community.

These relationships enable the College to provide depth and breadth of opportunities for students in all areas of academic, personal and spiritual development.

The College focuses on personalised learning in an environment where all students are known and their individual learning

needs are understood.

Together with a diverse co-curricular programme, students have access to individual and team sports, cultural pursuits, the performing and creative arts, and an extensive camps and excursions programme.

The College also encourages student participation in leadership and social justice initiatives, firmly connected to the Marian faith tradition and charism of our founding Presentation Sisters.

The wellbeing of each and every student is at the forefront of all the College does.

Our dedication to pastoral care supports students to achieve their best personal and educational outcomes, to grow into well rounded

young people who make positive contributions to their community.

Marian College is situated in a beautiful regional setting with a modern campus that is once again expanding to include a new Wellbeing Centre ready for use in 2025.

Education Week is a time when many families begin to look at the options for students entering secondary education in the following year.

We welcome the opportunity for families to tour our school at a time that is convenient to them, remembering that every day is open day at Marian College.

Please contact us via email info@mcm.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 5752 1596 to arrange a time to tour our magnificent College.

IN REMEMBRANCE: Marian College’s Student Leadership Team led the school community in an assembly honouring and remembering the brave ANZACs who served our country. Pictured from left Mia La Spina, Jaz Rossato, Kylie Quin, Maddison Pasqualotto, Lily Cuskelly, Tomas Juhasz, Yuri Fortaliza, guest speaker John Twyford, Maria Fin, Genavieve Cusack and Isabelle Cooke.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

3 What is a woman who has never married (8)

7 To regain something, is to do what (6)

8 To be seductive, is to be what (8)

9 What is intense, overpowering fear (6)

10 Which term describes that which has the most thin cutting edge (8)

11 What is a bank cashier called (6)

14 Juneau is the capital of which US State (6)

17 What is a numbat also known as (8)

18 To be rectangular, is to be what (6)

19 What is a circular or spiral motion (8)

20 What are profits, as from investments (6)

21 Name a more or less temporary disorder of the mental faculties, as in fevers, etc (8)

DOWN

1 To mislead by a false statement, is to do what (7)

2 What is an alternative name for a diary (7)

3 To be more thinly scattered, is to be what (7)

4 Which term describes that which is neither positive nor negative (7)

5 Name a muscle having three heads (7)

6 What is a boat race (7)

11 To have given out a sharp ringing sound, is to have done what (7)

12 Which term implies that which relates to the side (7)

13 What is a decree also known as (7)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining

14 What is a word formed from the initial letters of other words (7)

15 Name an artist’s workshop (7)

16 What was the former name of Cape Canaveral (7)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

a)

b)

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:

Aged (3)

Courageously (7)

Heating chambers (5)

Make changes (5)

Opposed to con (3)

Perambulators (coll) (5)

Surf Life Saving (3) Takes a trip (7)

Theatre: well done (5)

Undergarment (3)

Solve

SATURDAY MAY 18

BEECHWORTH THEATRE COMPANY: ‘Vicar of Dibley’. Beechworth Memorial Hall. 5pm to 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at the door or visit www.stickytickets.com.au with a search for the Vicar of Dibley. Visit www.beechworththeatrecompany.com.au for more information.

SUNDAY MAY 19

BEECHWORTH AUSTRALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL EVENT. 2pm. Anglican Christ Church. Beechworth History and Heritage chair Jamie Kronborg will talk about the ‘melting pot’ that became Beechworth after colonisation and gold’s discovery, attracting scientists, botanists, painters, vignerons, writers and explorers, and home to lawyers who became judges and politicians influencing federation.

TICKETS $10 ($8 concession) at the door. No bookings required. For information call or text 0409 912 967.

BEECHWORTH ARTS COUNCIL: Join Valerie Crosse and Darren Pope at the Beechworth Library for an artist talk about their exhibition ‘Old Crocks’. 12noon to 2pm. Cake and tea, Free event.

BEECHWORTH THEATRE COMPANY: ‘Vicar of Dibley’. Beechworth Memorial Hall. 2pm to 4.30pm. See details for Saturday above.

WEDNESDAY MAY 22

BEECHWORTH EXERCISE ACTIVITY AND TRAINING GROUP (BEAT): 11am to 12noon. Unlocking the Secrets of healthy Ageing. Presentation by chiropractor Dr Remo Parente. Tips for Healthy Ageing - understanding age-related changes, strategies for enhancing quality of life, interactive discussions and Q&A session. For anyone interested in ageing well. Questions can be submitted in advance to qigong@stanleygoose.com.au or by hand to Lee or Helen one week prior at BEAT training sessions. $5 entry. Free to BEAT members. To register contact Lee on 0487 323 163 or Helen on 0447 844 410.

FROM NOW UNTIL MAY 31

BEECHWORTH ARTS COUNCIL: ‘Old Crocks’. A collection of still life artwork by Valerie Crosse and Darren John Pope. Beechworth Library, 101 Ford St. Meet the artists in an art chat on May 18 from 12noon to 2pm. Free.

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

Health service marks International Nurses Day

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEECHWORTH Health Service celebrated International Nurses Day with a scrumptious afternoon tea for staff on Monday.

Acting director of clinical services Liz Ibrom said the special day marked around the world on May 12 gave recognition to the profession.

“Nursing is the backbone of the health industry,” she said,

“It’s hard but most rewarding work where caring people are intrinsically drawn to help and support others.

“Nurses are dedicated, work tirelessly and often go unrecognised.

“I believe nurses are unsung heroes and heroines.”

Liz said nursing is a great diverse career with many different areas offered to specialise in.

“We work in wonderful team environments too,” she said.

“Nurses can also travel the world with their profession as well as having choices to work in small rural or large city hospitals.”

A new ‘leaf’ on life

KERRIE Warburton grew up in Dunedoo, a small farming community in central NSW between Dubbo and Mudgee.

“Like Rome, “all roads lead to Dunedoo”, so no matter where you are in Australia you can always travel home via Dunedoo,” she said.

Kerrie moved with her husband and daughters to Osbornes Flat in 2012.

What do you do workwise?

I work as a landcare facilitator for the Ovens Landcare Network.

My role supports several local landcare groups including Chiltern, Rutherglen and Beechworth.

Moving to landcare in my 60s was a big change.

I still have lots to learn but I love the job.

What brought you to your role/career?

My daughter recently completed a Bachelor of Environmental Science.

Listening to some of her online lectures during COVID and discussing her field of study greatly influenced my decision to seek work in an area where I could also make a positive difference for the environment.

What do you love about your work?

As well as believing that landcare does valuable work throughout the region, it also allows me to work with and learn from committed landcare volunteers and many generous and knowledgeable Traditional Owners.

It is a great privilege to “walk on country” with these people.

What do you do in the community?

I love being part of a strong and vibrant community and have several passions that I try to support through different volunteer roles.

Volunteering for things that I think are important brings me joy.

My friends say it gives me energy.

As an example, I do a little bit of volunteer work to support refugee charities.

In 2021 our government abandoned people who had made themselves especially vulnerable because they worked with the Australian military to provide education for girls and improve

women’s rights in Afghanistan.

A number of Yackandandah locals are raising funds and submitting visa applications for these vulnerable Afghan people.

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

The Yackandandah population is increasing rapidly, and this is resulting in more land being used for housing.

It would be great if these new landowners would consider nature when fencing and planting their properties.

Providing habitat corridors could make a difference for the survival of threatened native species in the area.

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

I worry about the influence of people who peddle false news and divisive opinions.

The development of algorithms in online news means many people only hear and see news and opinions that supports their existing views.

If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?

I have lots of heroes and heroines, so it is hard to pick one, but my favourite place to take visitors is the Mt Pilot lookout.

It is a good example of remnant vegetation and has great views of our region.

What book are you reading?

I have two books on the go - I’m listening to Shaun Micallef’s “Tripping Over Myself” and reading William McInnes “Yeah Nah”. I need a laugh at the end of the day.

IN RECOGNITION: Liz Ibrom (left), Sharon O’Toole, Deb Hempenstall and Sharon Knowles enjoyed a fabulous afternoon tea on Monday to mark International Nurses Day on May 12.

PHOTO: Gabriella Tange.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Kerrie Warburton from Osbornes Flat loves her role as an Ovens Landcare Network facilitator as well as being part of a strong and vibrant community where she volunteers.

Kerrie, Warburton

CROSSMAN,

I

r families.

A memorial service will be held in Beechworth at a date to be advised

JARVIS (nee Harris), Nola Alicia.

Passed away suddenly on May 10, 2024 at Stringybark Lodge.

Aged 83 years.

Much loved and loving mother and mother-in-law of Rohan and Anita.

Adored Nanna of Lilli, Ruby and Max. 'Sadly, missed and always in our hearts.'

A private graveside service will be held for immediate family members.

Beechworth (03) 5728 1052

JARVIS (nee Harris), Nola.

Passed on May 10, 2024. My dear friend over many years.

Glad we caught up over last Christmas.

Fond memories always.

~ Wendy (Conroy) Shell, Rohan, Megan and Paul.

O’LOUGHLIN (nee Delahunty), Elizabeth “Betty”. 21/1/1927 - 10/5/2024

Please refer to northeastfunerals.com.au website for funeral details.

2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER, reg (U D Q911), auto, ST diesel, 7 seater, 180,000km, cruise control, 1 owner, VGC, extras rear park camera, $8000 ono. Call Robin 0412 485 113.

YELLOW Hyundai sedan, 2000, (1YM9QQ), 218,242km, great car for new drivers, 5 speed manual, $4500 ono, located Mansfield. Ph 0439 719 529

FORD Falcon, 2006, (TZX689) reg till July 1, $2000 ono, Ph 0409 497 538.

4.6 F i b re Glass b oat/trailer, 70hp Yamaha, very little use, all safety gear, new seats, awning, paint and gel coat, t otally refurb ished, new transom, GPS, Sounder, $10,000. Ph 0407 161 665.

EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer

Quercus Beechworth Inc.

Notice of Annual General Meeting for 2023

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 5.30pm

The Quercus Beechworth Inc. is holding its AGM for the 2023 financial year at the Quercus Hall, 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 2022 AGM and the SGM held on January 17, 2024.

2. Chairperson’s address.

3. Presentation of 2023 Financial Statements and Financial Report.

4. Confirm the amount of the annual subscription for membership.

5. Election of Board members.

General Information about attending the AGM

If you wish to vote on agenda items or stand for board of management, please find application forms on the Quercus website. Nominations for board positions must be received no later than May, 25, 2024.

Copies of the Annual Report and audited financial statements will be available at the AGM. For further details see Quercus website https://quercusbeechworth.org.au/ and fb page https://www.facebook. com/QuercusBeechworth

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Beechworth Golden Serpents Dragon Boat Club will hold their Annual General Meeting on Saturday, June 1, 2024 11am – 12 noon at Beechworth Secondary College.

Public Meeting. All welcome to attend.

Indigo Shire Council has endorsed a number of strategic documents to be placed on public exhibition for 21 days.

The documents include the:

Draft Budget 2024/25

Draft Operating Income and Expense by

Service Plan

Draft 10-Year Financial Plan

Draft Revenue and Rating Plan

Draft Council Plan 2021-2025 - Year 4 review

All documents can be viewed on our website at www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/budget or call our Customer Experience Team if you require assistance accessing the documents.

If you wish to make a submission to the Draft Budget or any of the other strategic documents On Exhibition, you can:

Complete an online form by visiting our website

Email to info@indigoshire.vic.gov.au with the subject heading “Draft Budget Submission” Post to PO Box 28, Beechworth 3747

All submissions should be addressed to the CEO and received by 5pm on Tuesday 4 June.

Your submission may be made public as part of the Council report to consider budget submissions; however, your personal details will not be included.

Council will consider all submissions at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 25 June 2024.

**Please note that Council will no longer hear from submitters in person.

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au

John & Christine Haddrick

Golfers turn out for Mother’s Day round

By DYLAN POOL

BEECHWORTH Golf

Club had a great day on Sunday for Mother’s Day.

It was our best roll up of players for a while.

It was a hot contest, with a countback required to decide the overall winner.

Andy Croome (17) was the winner of that countback, with a 66 nett (-2) from Hollie Goodwin (18) with 68 also (-2).

The men’s par is 68 and the women’s par is 70, hence why the countback was required.

With that win Andy Croome won the May monthly medal, which qualifies him for the medal of medals in November, where he now joins Willem Love as qualifiers.

Ball winners for the day were George Ward (22) 67, Jamie Dolny (14) 68, Dave Lang (17) 69, Peter Smith (20) 70, Rod Shaw (29) 70 and Phil Pelgrim (22) 70.

Nearest the pins went to Dave Clark on the fifth, Dave Lang on the seventh and Rod Shaw on the 10th.

Next Sunday there are a few of us heading to Bethanga for their tournament.

This is a men’s and women’s day.

Hit off is 9:30am for 10am.

If anyone else would like to come please contact Brett on the below flyer or let Dylan know.

We have a couple of spare seats still left

There will also be a stableford event at Beechworth.

Bushies’ take top spot

■ From back page Fendyk said it was promising to have a convincing win without leaders like Kayde and Brenton Surrey in the side, who missed with minor injuries.

“I think both teams struggled to capitlise on anything going forward early, but after half-time we kicked into gear,” he said.

“It was certainly pleasing to win like that, we had a few of our big leaders out so it was certainly promising.

“A lot of the time you have a big win like we had against Kiewa and it’s pretty easy to drop the ball the next week, but to continue in the same way we finished off that game was good.”

Fendyk said while there was still plenty to play out this season, the group are full of confidence at the one third mark of the year, surprising many with their wins over Yackandandah and Kiewa-Sandy Creek.

“Not a lot of people would have given us a chance of starting 5-1 but a lot of it has come down to our younger guys who have all stepped up again,” he said.

“They’re a year older, they’re a year better and they’re dragging the rest of us along with them.

“People like Degan Dolny and Liam Stephens have been outstanding for us so far, it’s been pretty impressive to watch.”

EYES FOR THE BALL: Beechworth’s Tristan Lenaz (right) was a standout for the Bushrangers in their 78-point win over Rutherglen last Saturday, as they look to take down one the competition’s biggest risers in Thurgoona tomorrow.

LEADING THE CHARGE: Captain Cam Fendyk was looking forward to the challenge at Thurgoona tomorrow

TOP OF THE CROP: Beechworth Golf Club's monthly medal went down to a countback with Hollie Goodwin (left) runner-up to winner Andy Croome, who both shot a nett two under par.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS:

Jobe Brock and Liam Stephens lead a pursuit for the footy at Barkly Park, as Beechworth ran rampant over Rutherglen last week.

Bushies’ take top spot

BEECHWORTH will face an intriguing test to their newfound place on the top of the TDFL standings against Thurgoona tomorrow.

Fresh off a comprehensive fifth straight win over Rutherglen last week, the Bushrangers make their way to Thurgoona Oval as favourites, but they will be wary of one of the

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

most improved teams in the competition.

Despite a 100-point loss to Chiltern earlier in the year, the Dogs have impressed in their start of the season to

sit in fourth, with a narrow eight-point defeat at the hands of the Roos their only other blemish on their record.

While Chiltern’s loss to Yackandandah saw Beechworth leapfrog the Swans to the top of the ladder on percentage.

Beechworth captain Cam Fendyk said his team would

be looking forward to the challenge.

“They’ve probably recruited the best out of any side numbers wise and they’re very well coached,” he said.

“Except for Chiltern, they’ve taken it up to everyone else so it’d be nice if we could beat Thurgoona and then Barny next week, it would put us in

a very nice sport for that top five finish.”

On a wild and windy day at Rutherglen last week, the Bushrangers recovered from a slow start to thump the Cats 16.10 (106) to 4.4 (28).

Rutherglen held a slim onepoint lead at the first change as both sides adjusted to the conditions, but the Bushrang-

ers found their groove in the second half, kicking 10 goals to two to seal the win. In the absence of spearhead Lachie Armstrong, Brad Fendyk filled the goal kicking boots with six majors, as young stars Clancy Ellett, Kane Scott and Willem Love made the most of extra opportunity.

■ Continued page 11