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Friday, February 21, 2025

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INSIDE

Response times lag

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Indigo Interview

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GRAVY TRAIN DELIGHTED cattle breeders Rex and Trish Forrest with daughter Narelle, who now runs Rosstulla Poll Hereford, held a successful Beef Week open day private sale at their Beechworth-based stud farm, with around 80 visitors present. Story page 6.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Game changer

New bridge opens Page 5

48km Rutherglen Loops trail opens for visitation, linking region’s tourism hot spots A LANDMARK $5.13M trail network set to transform tourism and community life in Rutherglen has been officially opened.

The Rutherglen Loops project, fully funded by the Federal Government, delivers 48km of connected trails linking Rutherglen, Wahgunyah, Lake Moodemere, and the region’s celebrated wineries.

Constructed on Yorta Yorta Country, the Rutherglen Loops represents a significant investment in regional tourism infrastructure,

offering visitors and locals alike a world-class cycling and walking experience.

The project combines sealed paths, concrete shared paths, and carefully planned on-road links to create a comprehensive network that showcases the region’s natural beauty and renowned food and wine culture.

The network caters to varying abilities, making the region’s attractions more accessible to a broader range of visitors.

Close to Rutherglen township,

you’ll find a series of shorter, accessible loops ideal for leisurely rides or walks.

For those seeking a longer adventure, extended loops utilise the Rail Trail to Wahgunyah, offering the chance to cycle alongside the Murray River, venture north to the iconic All Saints Winery, or journey south to the picturesque Lake Moodemere Estate.

Indigo Shire Council mayor Sophie Price said the Rutherglen Loops project was a game-changer

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“It provides a unique way to experience our world-class wineries and natural landscapes while promoting sustainable tourism and community wellbeing,” she said.

“Early feedback indicates the trail is already delivering significant economic and social benefits.

“Local businesses report increased cycle-based tourism, with wineries noting more cyclists stopping for tastings and purchases.

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Page 2 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

Sewage spill cleanup in Beechworth NORTH East Water managed a sewage spill in Beechworth following a main break along Lower Stanley Road on Thursday, February 13.

Wastewater spilled from the damaged main before reaching Lake Sambell.

Repair, clean-up and disinfection works were completed in the affected area over the weekend.

Signage will be erected in the vicinity, and as a precaution North East Water advised people to avoid walking or swimming in the immediate area.

The Environment Protection Authority has been notified of the spill.

Yackandandah shed fire lit by lawnmower

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN MULTIPLE local CFA brigades responded to a shed found in flames on Tuesday morning in Yackandandah.

A CFA spokesperson said five CFA units from Yackandandah, Baranduda and Wooragee alongside Fire Rescue Victoria attended the scene on Twist Creek Road around 11:16am.

The spokesperson said crews found smoke coming from inside the shed and began work to contain the incident.

“The fire was caused by a lawnmower and dry grass,” they said.

The incident was deemed under control at 11:55am and safe at 12:18pm.

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Big parties blindside on donations bill INDI’S Helen Haines and her fellows federal independent MPs have expressed their disbelief at the Labor and Coalition parties for passing the election funding bill last week.

The deal between the two major parties will enable all individual donors to give a candidate or political party $50,000, instead of the $20,000 proposed in November.

State and territory branches of parties also count separately so the cap is effectively $450k for major parties.

There will be a lower disclosure threshold of $5000 down from the existing $16,900, however, $1000 was originally proposed.

The amendments fail to plug a loophole that allows a donor to give separately to all of the

branches attached to a political party if each individual contribution is just under the threshold.

There will also be an $800,000 per electorate limit and $90 million per party nationally.

Dr Haines said she was disappointed the legislation that passed doesn’t deliver on the original goal to remove big money from politics and improve transparency.

She said instead, it delivers the duopoly of politics – Labor and the Coalition – the ability to bring in more, spend more and hide more.

“These reforms represent a fundamental change to how our democracy functions,” she said.

“It was a chance for the government to show integrity to the Australian public.

“We’ve seen the gamut of poor

process here – a lack of genuine consultation, an avoidance of scrutiny and a deal done in the dark.

“I wanted to see this bill go to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for a full inquiry but the major parties blocked this scrutiny.

“If I’m re-elected, and regardless of who forms government, I will continue to pursue a fair and just outcome for electoral reform over the course of the next parliament.”

Dr Haines spoke on ABC Radio National last week and confirmed that if she is elected into the next term of parliament this reform “will be well and truly in my line of sight to reform”.

“Both the Coalition and the Labor are a unity ticket on trying to dupe our democracy into voting for the major parties,” she said.

DONATIONS DUPE: Helen Haines is not happy about legislation on political donations, which will suit the major parties, being rushed through the House of Representatives. PHOTO: Auspic

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PEDAL AWAY: Members of the Rutherglen Rotary Club set to go on the 48km track.

ON YOUR BIKE: 3. Rutherglen youngsters Henry and Archie, ready to take on the new trail with Graham Brown.

“Game changing” tourism trail open for visitation

NEWSPAPER DEADLINES: • Display ads, bookings ........ 12 noon Monday • Display ads, copy ............... 12 noon Monday • Classifieds........................... 3pm Wednesday • General News ...................... 9.15am Monday • Sports results ....................... 9.15am Monday • Letters .................................. 9.15am Monday

YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM

Correspondent Coral Cooksley

■ From front page

Editorial co-ordinator Bailey Zimmermann

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HAPPY TRAILS: Community member Graham Brown, Damien Adams from Destination Rutherglen, Mayor Sophie Price, Robyn Pfeiffer and Greg Ley from Winemakers of Rutherglen celebrate the opening of the new Rutherglen Loops track.

“The trail network has been embraced by the local community, providing safer routes for daily exercise and recreation.

“The project’s delivery involved extensive collaboration between various stakeholders, including Destination Rutherglen, Winemakers of Rutherglen and multiple government agencies.

“Careful consideration was given to environmental and cultural heritage preservation throughout the planning and construction phases.”

Construction of the project took place throughout 2023 and 2024.

The Rutherglen Loops offers a distinctive experience that sets the region apart from other winery districts, encouraging extended stays and repeat visitation.

THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025 - Page 3

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BAG LIMIT BOOST FOR DUCK HUNTERS IN VICTORIA DUCK hunters will have their highest bag limits in years under settings for the 2025 Victorian duck hunting season.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation, Steve Dimopoulos, on Friday confirmed arrangements he said ensure the duck hunting season in Victoria is “sustainable, safe and backed by science”.

He said the settings were determined by the science-based Adaptive Harvest Management (AHM) model and the Wounding Reduction Action Plan.

“This year is the first season the AHM model will be used to guide the daily bag limit in Victoria, with the modelling tailored to Victoria’s unique conditions, habitats and species,” he said.

“Recreational duck and quail hunting is a legitimate activity, and it matters to thousands of

Victorians who love the great outdoors and regional businesses who benefit, but it needs to proceed safely and sustainably.”

The 2025 duck season will open on Wednesday, 19 March 2025 and close on Monday, 9 June 2025.

The start time is 8am for the first five days of the season, after which hunting can start 30 minutes before sunrise.

The 2025 daily bag limit is nine ducks, and seven duck game species can be hunted.

The blue-winged shoveler cannot be hunted this season, and the use of lead shot for quail hunting is also banned.

All new hunters seeking a license are required to do mandatory online knowledge training and testing - including Aboriginal cultural awareness training – as part of the Waterfowl

Wounding Reduction Action Plan.

All hunters renewing their licence from 2026 will also be required to complete this training.

Minister Dimopoulos said the government is also giving hunters certainty about future seasons with the dates for the next three years set out in the Wildlife (Game) Regulations.

He said the government has DUCK SEASON: DAILY BAG invested $11.6 million to ensure LIMITS HAVE RISEN TO the proper compliance and NINE BIRDS PER HUNTER enforcement measures are in FOR THE VICTORIAN DUCK place so duck hunting remains HUNTING SEASON. safe and sustainable into the future.

Further details about the 2025 season, including any wetland closures, will be regularly updated on the Game Management Authority (GMA) website at gma. vic.gov.au.

Indigo ambulance response times lag in latest quarter

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN INDIGO Shire recorded the lowest percentage of ‘lights and sirens’ ambulance responses within the benchmark of 15 minutes in the state.

Ambulance Victoria released the latest emergency response time figures between October and December last year breaking down local government area and urban centre locality responses.

Indigo Shire recorded the lowest percentage of Code 1 responses under 15 minutes, with just 22.6 per cent of 190 urgent responses meeting

Ambulance Victoria’s yardstick in the most recent quarter.

The shire recorded an average response time of 24:36 minutes, blowing out 3:36 minutes compared to the previous quarter.

Ambulance Victoria Hume regional director, Narelle Capp, said Ambulance Victoria knows more work was needed to be done in order to bring response time towards the benchmark of 15 minutes.

“Ambulance Victoria continues to work with hospitals to promptly transfer patients and ensure all Victorians receive the right care at the

right time,” she said.

“Since last November, we have welcomed 84 new graduate paramedics to our ranks and a further 15 new recruits will start soon including qualified paramedics from New South Wales, Queensland, the Northern Territory and New Zealand.

“In 2025, we are rolling out new digital radios across regional Victoria and iPads to all our crews with a modern platform making it easier and faster to complete electronic patient care records.”

Ms Capp said expert secondary triage team nurses and paramedics also have made a difference by con-

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necting patients with the care they need while helping free up crews for patients in time-critical emergencies.

“From October to December, 43,864 people across Victoria who did not need an emergency ambulance were instead connected to more appropriate care by paramedics and nurses in Secondary Triage,” she said.

“In less urgent cases, there are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice all day every day – but not an emergency ambulance or calling Triple Zero (000).

“This includes the Vic-

torian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Urgent Care Clinics and other options such as your GP or pharmacist, or Nurse-OnCall on 1300 60 60 24.”

Hume Region crews responded to 5837 Code 1 cases between October and December 2024, with the biggest improvements seen in the Mansfield and Wangaratta LGAs compared to last year.

In the Mansfield LGA, paramedics attended 50.5 per cent of Code 1 patients within 15 minutes – up from 43.7 per cent a year earlier.

The Wangaratta LGA saw a big improvement in Code 1 average response times

in the first quarter of the financial year at 14:31 minutes but blew out to an average of 15:24 minutes in 614 responses from October to December 2024.

Alpine saw increases of 1:39 minutes to response times compared to the last quarter and were up 2:07 minutes compare to this time last year, with October to December times at 23:56 minutes.

Strathbogie Shire responses within 15 minutes of Code 1 cases decreased more than six per cent on the last quarter at 30.3 per cent and an average response time of 24:18 minutes.

Page 4 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

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I believe strongly in economic development that is a benefit to the community and the environment.

- NATASHA KILLEEN

TEAM EFFORT: Rutherglen’s Natasha Killeen loves the variety of her work as general manager of Stanton & Killeen Wines with many moving parts.

PHOTO: Chloe Smith Photography

A bubbly desire for conservation NATASHA Killeen was born at Corowa Hospital in 1988.

Her late father’s side of the family have been in Rutherglen since the 1860s and her mother’s side from the Barjarg/Lima area since the 1880s.

“I lived in Canberra with my husband for a decade which we loved, but mostly I’ve been a North East local my whole life,” she said.

What do you do workwise?

I’m the general manager of our family business, Stanton & Killeen Wines.

My mother Wendy Killeen is the managing director.

What brought you to your role/ career?

It’s a team effort running a busy and complex business.

Wendy does the domestic and international travel, promoting the brand and developing new markets.

Greg and I have two little boys, so I stay close to home and do the day-to-day management.

Natasha Killeen What do you love about your work?

I love the variety of being a general manager, especially in an agribusiness with many moving parts – among them vineyard, winery, cellar door, events and export.

What do you do in the community?

Currently, I’m involved with Friends of Lake Moodemere Incorporated, a local organisation fighting to save the Lake Moodemere Reserve from a nearby proposed service station development.

We’re heading to VCAT in March to argue why it shouldn’t be approved.

Visit savelakemoodemere.com. au to learn more.

I’m also the chair of Muscat of Rutherglen, a volunteer committee promoting one of Australia’s most unique wines.

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

I believe strongly in economic development that is a benefit to the community and the environment.

For example, the main street of Rutherglen is the best it has ever been which is testament to entrepreneurs and a supportive Indigo Shire.

A challenge for councils and planning departments is how to promote growth and development without throwing away the values of sustainability and thoughtful design.

What would you do to solve

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change, improve that situation?

Anything that promotes transparency, trust, accountability and engagement between government departments and community stakeholders to ensure quality economic development.

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

The overconsumption of resources like water, and the proliferation of global waste, without considering the needs of future generations.

My Nanna is 89 and recounts stories of how resilient and frugal the community was in the face of limitations.

Back then, things were built once and built well. If things were broken, they got fixed, not replaced.

If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here,

Saturday, March 1 SPRING DITCH Proudly presented by Beechworth Music Festival, Spring Ditch is a fun filled family event with a smorgasbord of original and diverse Australian music along with a ‘tip of the hat’ to the former Stanley New Year’s Day Sports.

Held at Stanley Recreation Reserve, 10am to 8pm.

Musical lineup is headlined by six piece afrobeat band, Afrobiotics and supported

who would that be, what would you show them, and why?

Actually, I would love to go back in time and for Bangerang artist, Tommy McRae (1835-1901) to show me what Lake Moodemere and the surrounding natural landscapes of Wahgunyah, Rutherglen and Chiltern were like before the gold rush and onset of European agriculture.

What book are you reading?

I’m in a book club here in Rutherglen so my bookcase is often overflowing.

However, a locally-written favourite is “Nobblers & Lushingtons – A History of the Hotels of Beechworth and the Ovens Districts” by Richard Patterson.

It’s a fascinating account of the role of pubs, commerce and hospitality in the early gold rush days of the area, and the memorable characters who lived during these times.

by regional artists including Minnie & the Moonrakers, Beechworth’s own Sam Shallue aka Magic Bean Guillotine, upcoming four piece Albury/ Wodonga band Lucey and local young Beechworthian Samara Bright.

Master of Ceremonies this year is none other than the energetic, hilarious and all round brilliant John Walker bringing his unique spin on entertaining the crowd.

DJ Jane Doe will keep the

music playing throughout the day.

Spring Ditch has a host of community involvement in the form of family activities, competitions and demos featuring the NE Axemen’s Association Woodchop plus a whole lot more.

Tickets available at https:// events.humanitix.com/springditch-2025 Check out the ‘Spring Ditch’ Facebook event page or website for more information.

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

THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025 - Page 5

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NICE MACHINE: Motorcyclists from all over look forward to taking part in the Black Dog Ride which helps continue the conversation about mental health across Australia. Pictured is local Gav Wright at last year’s event.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

Come along to Black Dog Ride HAPPY DAYS: Indigo Valley residents gathered at the site of the new Indigo Creek Road bridge prior to its opening last Wednesday night.

Indigo Creek Road bridge opens to traffic A BUZZ of excitement surrounded Indigo Valley residents last Thursday with Indigo Shire Council announcing the long-awaited opening of the Indigo Creek Road bridge to traffic.

A community celebration was held at the site of the new Indigo Creek Road bridge on

Wednesday night, prior to it being opened to traffic.

Two-way traffic on the bridge has been restored and the load restrictions removed.

The bridge had been closed since November 2022 after the existing culvers failed following a major storm event

Indigo Shire Council secured funding of more than 1.24m towards construction of a new bridge in November 2023, with council contributing $300,000.

Council have some temporary traffic speed reductions in place while the new road settles and

encouraged road users to be aware of the changed conditions and loose stones.

The temporary bridge is now closed to traffic and is scheduled to be removed in the next few weeks.

There might be some brief speed reductions during its removal.

REGISTRATIONS for the the Black Dog Ride from Wangaratta to Myrtleford and Yackandandah are now open and motorcyclists are encouraged to enter.

The Black Dog Ride began in 2009 as a ride to raise awareness of depression and evolved into a national charity raising millions of dollars for mental health programs.

About 133 participants and volunteers in Wangaratta joined the 2024 One Dayer and raised $5000 towards the total of $435,000 funds raised for the Black Dog Community Grants Program.

This year’s ride will begin at Wangaratta’s Apex Park at 10am on Sunday, 16 March.

People who want to register or donate, can head to: One Dayer Registrations: https://www. blackdogride.org.au/view/ride-information/1dayer-2025 Make a donation: https://www.blackdogride.org. au/view/donate Local schools, clubs, community groups and individuals can also raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention and support the work of Black Dog Ride by organising local fundraising activities and events, or simply make a donation.

For more information on Black Dog Ride and One Dayer ride, visit www.blackdogride.org.au or keep up to date on the Black Dog Ride Facebook page.

Make good on money owed by Rex: ATIA

By STEVE KELLY THE Australia Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has called on the Federal Government to make good on money owed to travel agents and airports as a result of Rex Airlines’ collapse.

As the Federal Government has begun its second tilt at selling the airline, ATIA has asked for travel agents, which are predominantly small businesses in regional areas, to be paid out as part of any buy-out or nationalisation of the airline.

The government will work with the administrators of Regional Express Holdings (Rex), as part of the upcoming competitive sale process, to ensure crucial regional aviation services continue beyond June 30 this year.

The government is working with shortlisted bidders on what support the government may be able to provide to maximise the prospect of a successful sale.

Terms of Commonwealth support will be subject to negotiation, but will be conditional on commitments by bidders to provide an ongoing, reasonable level of service to regional and remote communities, the need to provide value for money to taxpayers and good governance.

However, in the event there is no sale, the government said it will undertake

SALE OR BUY OUT: Rex Airlines. PHOTO: Ryan Fletcher/ Shutterstock. com necessary work, in consultation with relevant state governments, on contingency options, including preparations necessary for potential Commonwealth acquisition.

The government is also providing further support through a waiver of the “use it or lose it” test for Rex regional flight slots at Sydney Airport, which will ensure its access to those slots until October 24, 2026.

The government is providing a loan of up to $80 million to keep Rex’s vital regional routes operating until June 30.

It also acquired $50 million of debt from Rex’s largest creditor, PAGAC Regulus Holdings Limited, earlier this year to ensure the airline could continue to operate.

With around $11.5 million in outstanding payments owed to travel agents, predominantly in regional and rural Australia, the Australia Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is also asking the government to ensure that any public funds used to support Rex’s ongoing operation use a clawback mechanism for these outstanding debts over a 12-month period.

ATIA CEO Dean Long said

there’s no doubt that the ideal solution will always be a private buyer.

“If the government does buy Rex, it must make good on the money owed to Australian travel agents and airports as a result of Rex’s collapse,” Mr Long said.

“Like these agents, there are also a number of airports that have significant losses due to the collapse of Rex. “Any buyout of that debt or nationalisation of the airline must see these debts repaid as a priority.

“This can’t just be about sending money to international creditors.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said regional Australians deserve access to quality and crucial regional aviation services.

“We are working collaboratively with the administrators of Rex to ensure that regional services continue beyond June 2025, including looking at what support the Commonwealth can provide,” he said.

“Regional Australians can be assured that our government will continue to fight to ensure these regional airfares remain available.”

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Page 6 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

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MAKING WAVES FOR CANCER CARE AT INAUGRAL SUNSHINE SWIM LOCAL swimmers are taking the lead in a new challenge the whole community can support to back the vital role the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund plays in providing treatment and care for patients across the region.

The Yarrawonga Mulwala Swimming Club together with the Ovens and Murray District Swimming Association welcomed swimmers from across the district earlier this month for the launch of their inaugural Sunshine Swim.

With more than 300 swimmers competing as part of their summer competition calendar, it was a perfect opportunity to showcase the Sunshine Swim event and raise some much needed funds towards the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust.

Anne-Marie Humphries, treasurer of the AWRCC Trust, was on hand at the launch to address the crowd, expressing the fund’s excitement for this new event and detailing how the money raised will be allocated.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Yarrawonga Mulwala

SPORTING YELLOW: Fletcher Davies, Charlie Bourke, Ella Hollister and club captain Darcy Cox pictured in bright yellow sport caps, which could be purchased in support of cancer care.

Swimming Club and the Ovens and Murray District Swimming Association for their support,” she said.

“This event will make a real difference in providing vital cancer services and support to families in our region.”

Members of the community are able to register for free, either individually or as part of a team, and are prompted to pledge a distance goal to gather support and donations from the community.

AWRCC Trust Fund’s Justine

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Anyone of any age and swimming ability are invited to sign up. (From left) Ginny Alexander, Isabel Brennan, Eddie Thomas, Alice Thomas.

Rofe said she was absolutely thrilled to add yet another “sunshine” event to the annual calendar and invites everyone in the region to sign up.

“All funds raised will directly support cancer services in our region, ensuring that patients and

Beefed up for open day

By CORAL COOKSLEY ROSSTULLA Poll Hereford in Beechworth famous for its ‘cold country cattle’ took part in an annual event showcasing bloodlines and genetics with close to 150 producers opening gates.

Stock and Land sponsored ‘Beef Week’ in its 34th year hosted by Stud Beef Victoria was held over eight days from January 29 to February 5.

The Stud Beef Victoria event stretched across Victoria, into NSW’s Riverina and South Australia’s south east.

‘Beef Week’ is the largest event of its kind in Australia for bull buyers, marketers and interested public to check out cattle in their home environment.

Non-profit organisation Stud Beef Victoria represents Victoria’s beef cattle seedstock producers.

The Rosstulla stud run by Narelle Forrest with the baton handed over from parents Trish and Rex Forrest – who still give a helping hand – had on show their Poll Hereford bulls for private sale on day seven.

Trish said they had taken part

L AL R R OU O F Y OF

EXPLORED: Whorouly south beef cattle farmers John and Pam Matheson with daughter Bec checked out the Rosstulla Poll Hereford stud.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley in the event virtually every year since it started.

“The event showcases multibreeds and started in the Western District of Victoria,” she said.

Trish said the event is the main sales day on the Rosstulla calendar for the year.

Rosstulla runs about 245 head of cattle comprised of around 100 breeding cows, plus heifers, replacements (young female stock)

and bulls as well as running fine wool merino sheep.

The stud was founded in 1963 by Rex and his parents.

Trish said besides bulls some females were usually sold as well but because the winter was so tough, the females were not ready.

“We did have some stud females on display for people to see,” she said.

Narelle said they had been de-

lighted with numbers of around 80 people visiting on the day – the highest for some time.

“There’s positivity around the agricultural industry although it’s been a tough season,” she said.

Trish said exporting is expensive and these days most export and import opportunities come through artificial insemination with semen or the embryos transported.

Hailing from New Zealand, with family across the Tasman having stud cattle as well, Trish said there is a trans-Tasman genetic exchange.

“The event is a good opportunity for us to showcase what we do particularly for breeders,” she said.

“In years gone by local country shows had cattle to show which we did and we sold bulls in Sydney and in Dubbo.

“We had a mix of commercial people through as well as stud breeders which is usual.”

Trish said besides the beef cattle stud they also ran merino sheep – a breed for fine-wool.

“Narelle a fully qualified wall classer too.” she said.

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CLOSE to 530,000 Victorians who appear to have failed to vote in the October 2024 local council elections will have an opportunity to explain why when they receive an ‘Apparent failure to vote notice’ in the coming days.

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is urging people who receive a notice to respond with a detailed explanation, as the VEC is required to issue a fine of $99 if a person fails to respond in writing within 28 days.

“An ‘Apparent failure to vote notice’ is not a fine – it’s a chance to explain why you appear not to have voted,” Mr Bluemmel said.

“If you respond to the notice in writing with a valid reason and evidence, you are much more likely to be excused.

“Completing and sending the notice back to us within the 28-day timeframe gives us a chance to consider your explanation and whether you can be excused.”

Voting in local council elections is compulsory in Victoria if you were enrolled to vote.

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families receive the highest quality care close to home,” she said.

Registrations are open for the rest of of the month.

Event information and registration can be found at: https://give.awcancertrust.org.au/ event/sunshine-swim.

Tree Removals Stump Removals Land Clearing Storm Clean Up

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THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025 - Page 7

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Wangaratta Marathon entries flowing in THE Wangaratta Marathon event entries are flowing in fast with less than a month until race day.

New race director Liam Delany said most events are likely to sell out with a total of 2000 entries up for grabs.

Sunday, 16 March will see a marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km and 2km primary challenge based out of the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

Mr Delany said the event has been given a real boost from local sponsorship with over $10,000 worth of prizemoney and heaps more prizes for everyone.

“The Wangaratta Intersport 2km Primary Challenge (5-11yr olds) is a great chance to get the children involved in a professionally timed event in a safe environment, the course remains unchanged with two laps of

the showgrounds,” he said.

“There are two start times with those wanting to race starting at 10am, the second start time of 10.15am allows parents/guardians to accompany the children and is more about having fun.

“Everyone gets a finisher’s medal and the top three girls and boys in U8, U10 and U12 get a trophy.

“All other courses have been changed to make for faster times, utilising the pathway along Yarrawonga Road which takes the runners out of town to enjoy the countryside in the 10km, half and full marathons.”

New course maps can be found on the website, address https://northeastsports.com.au/.

The JohnsonsMME 5km run has some handy prizemoney for the young guns; runners

JOIN THE STAMPEDE; The enthusiastic start of last years 2km Primary Challenge as part oif the Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Run event. will complete a lap of the showgrounds first before doing 2km out and back (turning just before Phillipson St).

“This will be a great chance for a 5km PB for all our park runners too,” Mr Delany said.

“The Wangaratta BFT 10km will also be a great chance for a PB with a fast flat out and back course.

“It’s great to have the BFT sponsorship given their strength training knowledge and a very generous prize pool for the quick runners.

“Long time sponsor RJ Sanderson & Associates have put up some healthy prizemoney for the half marathon, the new course makes this a fast and scenic run that is definitely worth a crack if you’ve got the fitness.

“Garry Nash Real Estate is synonymous with running in Wangaratta so it’s only fitting they sponsor the marathon, the ultimate test.”

The new course is expected to make for fast times.

“It’s still a two lap course

so we hope everyone can be there to support our marathoners especially as they head out on lap two,” Mr Delany said.

“It’s exciting to have Wangaratta Whole Foods providing $1000GV for first and $500GV for second teams across all events.

“When you enter you just include your team name so you are in the running to win big and eat healthy.

“The event hub is looking like a lot of fun with heaps

of food, drink, music and a great recovery area with Dr Becky’s team and the Motion Health Collective there to support you post race.”

The Wangaratta Marathon is one of the city’s major sporting events that everyone can get involved in.

If you have any inquiries please email liam@northeastsports.com.au.

“Good luck with your training and get those entries in before they sell out,” Mr Delany said.

Protect yourself from Japanese encephalitis

By KIM CHING

NASTY: A confirmed human case of Japanese encephalitis was identified in a resident of northern Victoria in January.

JAPANESE encephalitis (JE) is a serious viral infection caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

While most infections are asymptomatic, severe cases can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), resulting in long-term neurological complications or even death.

JE is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person.

In February 2022, the JE virus was first detected in Victoria, prompting the South Wangaratta Medical Centre and other healthcare providers to offer the JE vaccine to eligible Victorians. Since then, the vaccination program has been expanded and

modified to better protect those at risk.

As of January 2025, a confirmed human case of JE has been identified in a resident of northern Victoria, marking the first case of JE in the state this mosquito season. Environmental surveillance has also detected the virus in northern Victoria along the Murray River, as well as in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales.

These findings indicate that JE virus is likely circulating in northern Victoria this summer.

The JE vaccine is available free of charge for specific groups at higher risk of exposure to the virus, including eligible individuals in 24 highrisk local government areas (LGAs) in northern Victoria.

Priority is given to those living or working in areas with known mosquito activity, particularly near wetlands, rice fields, or other water bodies.

For the most accurate and up-todate eligibility criteria, please refer to the official Victoria Government health website or consult your local healthcare provider.

Take Action to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Japanese encephalitis.

If you or your family members fall into the eligible categories, don’t wait - contact the South Wangaratta Medical Centre or your local healthcare provider to schedule your vaccination.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra

For more information, visit the Victoria Government health website or speak to a medical professional.

In addition to vaccination, take the following steps to reduce your risk of mosquito bites:  Use mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin.  Wear long, loose-fitting, lightcolored clothing when outdoors.  Ensure your accommodation, including tents, is fitted with mosquito netting or screens.  Avoid outdoor activity around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.  Remove stagnant water around your home or campsite to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

Page 8 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

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GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

D R A M T V H R O S E E E E A L N S R L I C E T E M A R T O B A C K E D

6

7 8 9

10 11

12

13

14

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally.

Some letters are used more than once.

19 20

21

22

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23 24 25

5 Name the muscle on the

front of the upper arm (6) 6 How many singers are there in a trio (5) 9 Who was Australia’s second Prime Minister, Alfred ... (6) 10 What is the studio of an artist (7) 12 What, colloquially, are prison guards called (6) 14 Which word element refers to hardness or solidity (6)

E-QUATIONS 7

contain oxygen (6)

1 HESTERNAL (a) Irregular (b) Of different origin (c) Of yesterday

connection (5) 21 Name the Italian island, the scene of Napoleon’s first exile (4) 22 Snake-like fishes are known as what (4)

2 NAZE (a) A headland or cape (b) A Jewish ascetic under a vow (c) An Indian court official

BIYWORD

E-QUATIONS

P

SUDOKU

5 4 3 8 2 6 1 7 9

© Puzzles supplied by AUSPAC MEDIA

Solution No. 973 CROSSWORD

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DOWN 1 Charity 2 Outbreak 3 Insignificant 4 Cooking fat

WHICH WORDS: 1 (c) Of yesterday 2 (a) A headland or cape

7 3

ACROSS 1 Weaponry 5 Stead 6 Extra 7 Proofreader’s mark

BIYWORD

7

Solve the crossword.

Each answer has four letters.

A D H R A D I R A E M S B E N S C E O T D F O T

SOLUTIONS

273

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2 5

QUICK THINK

110o013

273

B S E O M O R P H © F A N A T I C D A T E D R E D S

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CLUES: Chose (5) Concealed (3) Crimson (3) Enthusiast (7) Irate (3) Kept company (5) Metamorphose (abb) (5) Scolds (7) Sound detector (5) State Electoral Office (3)

12

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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.

are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

© Auspac Media - meq00283

Sale Tenet Vest

WHICH WORDS

18 To rub out, is to do what (5) 19 What is a means of

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U-W T-H U-S S+Z H×U U-H S+W

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3 7 5 2 4 1 9 6 8

18

16

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1 2 6 9 3 8 7 5 4

known as (6) 3 Who was Eve’s gentleman friend (4) 4 Which device is used for moving heavy weights (5)

5

B C A C U B I T S B E W I L D E R I H A R A A C C O R D D U T C H M A N E E E U T E E P E E S A P O S T L E S C K L R I S I G N O B L E N E P T U N E X W R E E R E M I T E S M A T R I X L D E S E U M B R E L L A B E F O G S A S S

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2 What is the big top

4

MINI WORD FIND

DOWN 1 What might we call a young

3

QUICK THINK ACROSS: 1 Arms, 5 Lieu, 6 More, 7 Stet.

DOWN: 1 Alms, 2 Riot, 3 Mere, 4 Suet.

were based on the length of the forearm (6) 7 To confuse or puzzle, is to do what (8) 8 What is a harmonious union of sounds (6) 9 Which term describes a man native to the Netherlands (8) 11 What are wigwams of Native North Americans (7) 13 What is one of the twelve disciples called (7) 15 To be of low character is to be what (7) 17 Name the mythological god of the sea (7) 20 What are hermits known as (8) 23 What, in biology, is the intercellular substance of a tissue (6) 24 Which portable shade offers protection from rain, etc (8) 25 When something confuses, it does what (6)

2

E-QUATIONS H:1, L:22, S:6, T:23, U:12, W:11, Z:17

1

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ACROSS 4 Which ancient linear units

MINI WORD FIND 273

973

omadvertiser.com.au

THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025 - Page 9

Page 10 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

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BY PHONE 5723 0101

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Classified Information Ovens and Murray Advertiser

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

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COLLINS

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Registered BVC024 until Jan 2026.

Warranty until Jan 2027. Travelled only 4 8 5 0 0 K m . Pr i c e $45,000. Phone Tony 0 4 0 9 2 3 9 3 2 6 RWC provided.

Rest easy Brett. ~ Amanda and Jai.

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CREDIT CARD FACILITIES WE ACCEPT

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MITSUBISHI ASX 2017, 90000km, registered until June 2025 1OJ4NB, $15000.

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26/8/1970 - 2/2/2025 Doyna, Brett’s daughters, Emmerson, Matilda and Harper, his sister Fiona, brothers Glen and Steven and their families, would like to thank everyone for their support, words of sympathy, messages, cards and beautiful flowers over the last two weeks.

Also thank you to all who attended the service for the celebration of his life.

Special thank you to North East Funerals and celebrant, Roxy Bodsworth.

R.I.P. Brett

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North East Farmer Phone: (03) 5723 0100 email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: Second Friday of month Mansfield Courier Phone: (03) 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: 12 noon Monday prior to print.

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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.

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Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer

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THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025 - Page 11

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SPORT

Howard’s Summer Cup triumph

By DYLAN POOL ON Sunday we had a good field of 14 players at Beechworth Golf Club front up for a stableford round which was also the final round of the Summer Cup. Congratulations to Zane Howard who has taken home the Summer Cup with a best three scores of 108 (41,40,27).

Runner up was Hollie Goodwin with 105 (36,34,35) and third was Phil Pelgrim 104 (35,37,32).

The highlight if the day was Dylan Pool’s HOLE IN ONE on the 3rd hole.

There is a bit of conjecture as to whether it is official as it was on the temporary green, which some might argue that it is actually harder than on a normal green.

Anyway that debate will go on and maybe a new honor board for temporary green

hole in one’s might be made.

Congratulations on Dylan’s first hole-in-one.

Onto the daily event Dylan saluted with 36 points off a three handicap to take home the main prize.

Hollie Goodwin (14) won the women’s event with 35 points.

Willem Love (6) was runner up in the men’s event with 35 points and Zoe Gephart (24) was runner up in the women’s with 32 points.

Jamie Dolny took home a ball with 33 points.

Nearest the pins went to Dylan Pool on the 3rd (Hole In One) and the 5th.

Jamie Dolny was the closest on the 10th and Rod Shaw knocked it on the 17th.

On Thursday there was 17 players for twilight on the front nine.

The winner was Dave Lang with 23 points (19+4).

Runner up taking home the

Bridge Road Brewers voucher was Tony Stockdale with 22 points (20+2).

Ball winners were Jason West 22, Jarryd Pritchard 22 and Jamie Dolny 22.

The Beechworth Bakery nearest the pin went to Jamie Dolny on the 5th.

Rod Shaw took home the cash for nearest chip on the 9th and Dylan Pool won the CC’s Quality Meats and Smokehouse voucher in the raffle.

This coming Sunday will be an event decided on the day.

Make sure you put in your diaries the clubs opening day on Sunday, March 2.

Mixed event.

Both Sundays are 11:30am arrival for 12pm hit off.

The opening day players are asked to please bring a plate of afternoon tea.

RUTHERGLEN A1, BEECHWORTH A3 TO FIGHT FOR GRAND FINAL SPOT

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN BEECHWORTH’S A3 bowlers will have their second chance in as many weeks to book a grand final spot after losing to Mansfield last week in the qualifying final.

Mansfield upset Beechworth 89-77 in Wangaratta to reach the grand final.

Both teams won two rinks each, but comprehensive victories from Mansfield in rinks one (22-13) and four (3014) paved the way for victory.

Swanpool earned a crack at Beechworth in this week’s preliminary final back at Wangaratta, for a spot in the final after beating Tungamah 86-58.

Meanwhile Rutherglen’s A1 team will be in a similar position at Corowa this Saturday after going down to Corowa RSL 77-68 in last week’s qualifying final.

They will be facing Wodonga in the preliminary final after their thrilling 78-75 win over Yarrawonga.

RELAXED: Nathan Quayle looks to put one next to the jack. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Wanderers eye finals berth ■ Fron back page

The Wanderers sit third on the ladder heading into their penultimate round clash against second-placed Wangaratta Magpies at Baarmutha Park.

The Magpies were trounced by ladder leaders Rovers United Bruck in their last outing and will be eager to deny Beechworth a chance at a home final.

In other grades, B grade were outclassed by Greta at Baarmutha Park going down by nine wickets.

The Wanderers could only post 65 batting first with

Lewis Richards (17) and Henry Scalzo (13) top scoring.

The Blues would only take 12 overs to make the runs, with Alex Beatson taking the sole wicket of the innings.

And in C Grade, the Stanley based Wanderers survived a scare to their unbeaten record to hold on by 13 runs over Benalla Red. Chris Nuck’s 52 and Sam Thompson’s 36 made for valuable contribution in Beechworth’s batting as the rest of the order lacked answers for young bowler

Josh Hart, taking 6/45 as the Wanderers were bowled out for 133.

Economic bowling from the likes of Darby West (3/23), Ryan Niklaus (2/17) and Dean Fitzpatrick (2/13) denied the Bushrangers a clean run in their chase, running out of overs in their score of 9/120.

This weekend B grade will have the bye and C grade face Gapsted in Stanley.

STEADY HEAD: Tristan Lenaz takes stance in Myrtleford.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

Country week disappointment for WDCA

By NATHAN DE VRIES

RAISE THE CUP: Zane Howard took out the Beechworth Golf Club Summer Cup last week.

WDCA cricketers are back in the North East following a disheartening campaign at Melbourne Country Week.

The local representative side faced South West Cricket for their final match on Thursday, hoping to record their first win of the tournament at the Syd McGain Oval in Strathmore.

Their closest match of the tournament, WDCA would come up just 37 runs short, bowled out for 224 chasing 9/261.

The WDCA bowlers had a tough time wrangling the South West batting line up, regularly going for more than four runs an over.

Paddy McNamara would break a 50-run opening partnership after hitting Eddie Lucas in front of the stumps out LBW, but the South West top order would continue to pile on the runs.

Brothers Josh Nanson (4/57) and Tyler Nanson (2/60) ripped through the middle order but copped some stick on the way, while gloveman Ryan Collier was kept busy behind the stumps, pouching four catches.

With 262 needed at a tick over five runs an over, the WDCA batters would need to be on their game from the first ball.

After Cooper Matheson fell for a quickfire 26 from 19, opener Tyler Nanson anchored the innings, working his way to a half century before he was dismissed for 69 off 77.

At 4/130, WDCA were in trouble, and while there were some handy contributions from the middle order, no one went on with the innings.

WDCA finished the tournament winless at ninth overall, avoiding the wooden spoon by having a better net run rate by 0.096.

Squad member Dylan Bursill said it was a long week for the team.

“We were pretty disappointed with how we went on-field,” he said.

“Hopefully the WDCA can continue to do Country Week and put some better sides together in future.

“We probably needed a few extra top order batters, and our bowling was very light on.

“We had Paddy McNamara and Matt Ryan, who are really handy bowlers, but after that the bowling was pretty light.

“We got found out when we were bowling and in the field, couldn’t really make any breakthroughs with the ball.

“Against teams like that you need a bit more depth – once you let them off the leash, they bat right down to nine or 10.”

Bursill said if the league wants to be competitive at Country Week, the onus of selection should be put back on the clubs.

“Clubs should ask players to represent their clubs, because it’s a good look for the club to send their best players down,” he said.

“Hopefully the clubs can have a bit more input, all clubs.

“Out of the initial squad the WDCA put up, I think only eight players put their hands up to go.

“From what the WDCA thought were possibly the 30 better players in the league, with only eight going and having to find another five players, it’s disappointing.”

Page 12 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, February 21, 2025

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QUALITY REPAIRS & SERVICE

QUALITY REPAIRS & SERVICE

Finals in sight Beechworth’s A grade hold on against Ovens Valley, can seal post-season berth vs Magpies

GAME FACE BARRY Fitzpatrick gives a roll at Wangaratta last Saturday as Beechworth’s A3 suffered an upset loss to Mansfield in their qualifying final and will now play Swanpool for a spot in the grand final. Story page 11 PHOTO: Marc Bongers

BEECHWORTH have taken a crucial step towards a finals berth as they held on in a lowscoring bout with Ovens Valley United.

The Tigers resumed at 6/44 on a spicy McNamara Reserve wicket in Myrtleford and only added 32 to their total before their tail folded, all out for 76 chasing Beechworth’s 98 posted the previous week.

Kane Fitzpatrick and Cooper Thomason were in the infancy of their innings as day two commenced and managed to build a partnership.

Tim Cogger was able to deal the first blow of the day when Fitzpatrick tried a lofted straight drive and Cogger plucked it out of the air, Fitzpatrick gone caught and bowled for 19.

Cogger would pick up the wicket of James Neary the very next ball, caught by Will Prebble, and suddenly the Tigers were 8/72.

The hat-trick ball would be left outside the off stump, but Cogger had done the damage.

Matt Ryan would clean up the tail, skittling Glenn White for a six-ball duck, and Bailey Wyatt in his next over to finish with 5/15 from his 11.1 overs.

Thomason was forced to watch the wickets tumble at the

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

other end, ending unbeaten on 16*.

With the result secured but still plenty of time left in the day, the Wanderers came back out to bat, but it was far from smooth sailing.

Clancy Ellett was the only top order batter to make a start, blasting a quickfire 22 from 17 balls before he holed out to James Neary.

Jackson Cull (1), Austen Fendyk (3) and Brenton Surrey (1) all departed in quick succession, with Beechworth finding itself at 4/35.

Jack Ryan stuck around, facing 60 deliveries for his 21 runs, but all the action was at the other end when Geeth Alwis came on to bowl.

Alwis would finish with 5/8 off 11 overs and match figures of 10/32 as the Wanderers were bowled out for 65.

Once again, the bowlers had the run of conditions when Ovens Valley came out to bat for a second time in the day, with Matt Ryan taking 5/33 from his 11 overs.

■ Continued page 11

Seeding & Tillage Field Day THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2025 253 TONE RD, WANGARATTA PADDOCK NEXT TO MCGREGOR MACHINERY

MO E D AY !

D LS A DE

9:30AM - 4:00PM

LIVE ACTION FREE BBQ, BEVERAGES & MACHINERY REPS WILL BE ONSITE!

MORNING 10AM SEED & FERT DRILLS 11AM SEEDERS 12PM JAYLOR MIXER AFTERNOON 1.30PM SPEED DISCS 2.30PM SEEDERS 3.30PM MIXED MACHINERY FEED OUT/BALERS