Ovens and Murray Advertiser 210723

Hole in road support

BENAMBRA MP Bill

Tilley has called on VicRoads to reduce its threshold for property damage caused by its roads, amid a “pothole epidemic” across the North East.

The present threshold sits at $1580 for property

damage caused by the state’s major roadways, which Mr Tilley said were in the worst state he had seen during his 17 years in office.

He recently called for the state’s Road Minister, Melissa Horne, to review

the threshold, and take urgent action to address potholes and road failures across the region.

“Highways and major arterials under the guardianship of the state are failing – potholes are literally everywhere.

BUY 1 x

“The damage to vehicles has been extensive, I think these circumstances demand the threshold be reviewed, perhaps even dropped for the time being.

“People are calling, emailing, sending photos – one spent $2800 on

repairs, a pensioner had a $561 bill and of course doesn’t get to the threshold for compensation, another person had to hire a car after theirs was left undriveable.”

■ Continued page 2

BEECHWORTH - CHILTERN - RUTHERGLEN - STANLEY - YACKANDANDAH

TROPHY WINNER: Gamila MacRury from Gamila of Beechworth was tied winner of the Champion Savoury Preserve Trophy for her ‘Pickled Blueberries with Saffron’. Story page 2.

Gamila a preserves champion at national food awards

By ANITA MCPHERSON

LOCAL business Gamila of Beechworth has taken out a major award at the 2023 Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards for her ‘Pickled Blueberries with Saffron’.

Made by Gamila MacRury, who grew up in the region and started her own farm in Beechworth in 2009, the product was the tied winner of the Champion Savoury Preserve Trophy.

The awards were decided by some of the country’s highest profile chefs and industry stalwarts, including Rosa Mitchell, Jerry Mai, Adam D’Sylva and Beechworth’s own Michael Ryan, who were on the 12-person judging panel undertaking ‘blind’ tastings across a dozen entry categories in early July at Melbourne Showgrounds.

By RYAN MALCOLM

BEECHWORTH Lions

Club will turn its attention to attracting new members upon the completion of a number of major projects, under the leadership of new president Iris Mannik.

Ms Mannik replaces outgoing president John Eldrid, who will remain on the local group’s executive committee despite adopting the role of zone chairman for Lions district 201V6 for the upcoming year.

She said a number of major projects, including the completed restoration of Harper Avenue’s Gang Plate Cottage, which is expected to be opened as a community hub before the end of the year, as well as a joint venture to host the district 201V6 convention alongside Yackandandah Lions in October had left a busy list of priorities.

“The most important

The judges lauded the pickled fruit for its simplicity of ingredients, including quality vinegar, as well as its ‘perfect texture’ and versatility.

Gamila said she was thrilled to receive the award, having adjusted the recipe following useful feedback received at the Sydney Royal Fine Food awards last year.

“These shows and competitions are always interesting - they are fundamentally there to benchmark you and give you some independent analysis, which helps you to assess if a product is as good as you think it is,” she said.

“After what were some very minor tweaks, it took out Champion this yearwhich is excellent.”

Gamila grows olives and saffron in Beechworth, and she sources her blueberries from Whitlands, where

she says the higher elevation (and slower ripening) produces the best flavoured fruit.

Not new to winning awards, she picked up a gold medal in Sydney in 2017 for the first product she ever entered, Saffron and Lemon Myrtle Olives, and she’s been “chasing gold ever since”.

“I want all my products to win gold - that’s what I’m going for,” she said.

Gamila said while it has been a bumper year this year for saffron, it was a dreadful year for olives, with a mild growing season and hail in December and January, followed by frost - but she said creating a diverse range of products was

the key to ensuring the business remained viable.

Melbourne Royal Award programs manager Damian Nieuwesteeg said it was a thrill to attract 324 entries for the first ‘cab off the rank’ in this year’s Australian Food Awards, with the program returning after a three-year hiatus.

“Not only were we impressed by the sheer volume of entries, but the quality across all classes was exceptional,” he explained.

“The record entries are on the back of new category changes implemented by Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards to ensure they remain aligned with industry trends, production techniques and importantly, consumer interest.

“The judges assessed and scored each entry on a set of six criteria – colour, flavour,

Fresh ideas a focus for local Lions

thing is to get the Gang Plate Layers Cottage completed, which is a project Lions has been working on for three years now,” she said.

“To get that operating with shire’s help as the community hub for small groups is our main aim.

“We’ve got the club level junior public speaking, so they’re happening in the next few months and I think that’s a lot to handle at the moment, but once we get them out of the way we’ll have a chance to look at what other things we’ll be doing.”

Ms Mannik said one key focus later in the year would be expanding the group’s membership base, which currently stands at 15 members.

“Because we’re a small club we all sort of help one another – you’ve probably got to have an executive but we all help each other and work very well as a team,” she said.

“My role this year is I’m going to be working hard at picking up some new members which will bring in new ideas – sometimes you get a bit stale, so that’s what I intend this year is to try and pick up some new members and hopefully boost our membership up to at least 20 again.

“If you’ve got at least 20 members, it makes it a strong club and you get new ideas and refreshing ideas.”

The Beechworth Lions held their changeover event alongside other groups from Kiewa/Tangambalanga, Yackandandah and Wodonga at The Venue on McFarland in Wodonga earlier this month, with 54 in attendance.

Ms Mannik will fill the role of president and secretary until the group is able to find a permanent secretary, while Christine Luckman was inducted as treasurer.

texture and body, aroma, trueness to description and finish of product.

“Competition rules stipulate that entries must be 100 per cent produced in Australia and commercially available for retail, which means that the gourmet gems we uncover can be bought and enjoyed by foodlovers across the country.”

Another North East Victorian business recognised was King Valley Walnuts in Myrrhee who picked up a gold medal for its ‘Pickled Walnuts’ in the Savoury Preserves – pickled, fermented or preserved fruit/vegetable class.

Entries for the dairy category of the 2023 Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards are now open until August 4, with more information at melbourneroyal. com.au/food.

Tilley calls for action to address hole in road support

■ From front page

Mr Tilley said a constituent had counted more than 60 “decent sized” potholes along the Murray Valley Highway over a 70km stretch between Tallangatta and their home.

The State Government pledged $2.8b to road maintenance over the next decade as part of the 2023/24 budget, a figure Mr Tilley represented a cut of $150m from the existing budget.

“There are some signs in place to warn of the danger, but the reality is that there will never be enough signs for the numbers of potholes we now have on our roads,” he said.

“We all live here, we all know it’s been wet but that’s no excuse, it’s been wet before.

“Motorists are suffering blowouts travelling at 100kph, they’re crossing the lines to avoid potholes on the crest of a hill – I genuinely fear a serious accident unless we get action.”

CHAMPION SAVOURY: Pickled Blueberries with Saffron was recognised at the 2023 Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards.

LEADERSHIP: Long-time Beechworth Lions member Iris Mannik was last year presented with an Order of Australia Medal, and will now take on the presidency of her beloved local club.

COMPENSATION REVIEW: Benambra MP Bill Tilley has called on VicRoads to review its compensation threshold for damages caused by the state’s major roadways.

Council backs planning permit compliance by local brewery

By RYAN MALCOLM

COUNCIL remains adamant a popular Beechworth restaurant is operating within the guidelines of its existing planning permit, despite in-depth complaints from nearby residential neighbours.

A group of concerned residents, led by John Harvey and Cynthia Bird, recently circulated a list of alleged breaches in Billson’s Brewery’s planning permit, with a particular focus on increased congestion and antisocial behaviour in the vicinity Last Street.

In a letter addressed to Indigo Shire Council and its sitting councillors, the group alleged council had “failed to do anything about the ever-increasing parking and traffic congestion on the residential streets surrounding the MUZ (mixeduse zone) at 29 Last Street”. It also alleged council had not monitored customer numbers at Billson’s during busy times, stating the number had exceeded the limit of 95 allowed by their planning permit, and noted some residents felt

like a “prisoner in their own home”.

In a follow-up letter earlier this week, the group

alleged council had been “stonewalling” the concerns, and had failed to respond publicly, a contention

which was strongly refuted by an ISC spokesperson.

ISC chief executive officer Trevor Ierino was said

to have directly responded to the group previously, and noted the focus of the business’ planning permit had

been on setting reasonable standards of amenity impact in the local area, rather than completely guaranteeing zero impact.

He also said council staff had received a report of patronage exceeding 95 around 12 months ago, but had never directly witnessed it and had worked with the business directly to further establish ways to limit patronage.

“In response, council staff met with Billson’s management to understand the processes in place for managing patron numbers, and to see if any work needed to be done in response to this report,” he said.

“After meeting with Billson’s management and understanding the work practices, council is satisfied that the systems employed by Billson’s and the booking system used, will manage the patron numbers to less than 95.

“Regular checking of the site indicates that patron numbers are well below this number.”

Council said it would not provide further comment at this time.

Funding cut to local road safety body

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

A FUNDING cut to the North East’s peak road safety body is expected to reduce its community activities over the next 12 months.

Road Safe North East will receive approximately $75,000 to fund its community road safety programs in the 2023/24 financial year, down from around $88,000 the previous year.

The funding for the not-forprofit organisation was announced by Minister for Roads and Roads Safety Melissa Horne last Friday, as one of 90 recipients across the state to share in $1.5 million through the State Government’s Community

Road Safety Grants Program.

Road Safe North East executive officer John Weinert said this was the first time the body’s funding had been cut, and it will have an impact.

“It’s disappointing, as this is the majority of our funding... most years it’s our only funding, although occasionally we may get some funding from the TAC or Department of Justice,” he said.

“We understand there has been around a 20 per cent cut across the board, so we’re not the only ones affected.

“What concerns us though is that with the rising road toll, why would you be looking at cutting funding to road safety?

“We’ve seen a rise in dangerous behaviour on the roads post-COVID, and given the state of some of our roads, more rather than less, needs to be done.

“For us, less funding means we’ll have to cut back and do less of some of the things we usually do.”

Road Safe North East’s programs with professional presenters include bike safety education in primary schools, road and dirt bike training, learner driver and young driver sessions and public awareness campaigns on driver distraction.

Mr Weinert said bike safety education, which was deliv-

ered in 35 primary schools in 2022/23, wouldn’t be cut.

“We will keep all our programs, such as the ‘Looking After Your Mates’ learner/young driver program in secondary schools, but the frequency may be reduced,” he said.

“Certainly we’ll have less money to support other organised public events.”

Minister Horne said this year’s grants program supported more than 250 initiatives to deliver targeted education programs to tackle road safety issues, in support of the state’s aim to halve roads deaths and reduce serious injuries by 2030 and eliminate road deaths by 2050.

CONGESTED: Traffic along Last Street has raised the ire of some local residents, who believe council has failed to address a number of alleged breaches in Billson’s Brewery’s planning permit. This photo was taken on January 3 this year.

PHOTO: John Harvey

FUNDING CUT: Road Safe North East executive officer John Weinert says less funding will mean less activities.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Letters to the editor

Town’s amenity leaves much to be desired

North East Victoria is undoubtedly a great place to live and work.

Beechworth is central to the region and has all the assets that make the region what it is.

In such circumstance, it is surely pertinent from time to time to examine how well we maintain, manage and present those assets… particularly to visitors.

Walk along Camp or Ford Streets…you will be lucky not to stub your toe on one of the many mounds of pigeon poo; or slip on moss-covered sections of pavement; or on a wet day, drown in the pools of water at the ill-drained pedestrian crossovers.

I often wonder what may lurk below the mud and scum covering the infills at the Ford Street / Camp Street; and Camp Street / High Street intersections.

Don’t bother sweeping the gutters… come spring, we will be able to mow the weeds and moss.

Indigo Shire Council needs to explain what it is doing with our rates.

Maybe other towns in the shire are getting our share of CBD cleaning funds?

Take a trip outside the shire to see how it can be done… and to Myrtleford if you want a quick-fix lesson.

We deserve better.

We pay for better.

Indigo… please explain Geoffrey Palmer, Beechworth

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space.

Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by the Ovens and Murray Advertiser.

Email edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au

Post

Let the good times roll at the Yackandandah Big Bike Film Night

IN its ninth year, The Big Bike Film Night will be celebrating cycling in all its glorious shapes and forms in Yackandandah on Saturday, August 12, with a programme proclaimed as ‘a feast of short films devised and designed for the two-wheel devotee’.

WITH its humble beginnings back in 2015, The Big Bike Film Night is now a much-anticipated film festival that brings a love of cycling to cinemas, presenting an array of international movies specifically selected by New Zealander Curator/ “Film Pedlar”, Brett Cotter.

“EACH year I set out with just one goal- to bring together the best cycling short films from around

the world for our audiences- this collection is awe-inspiring and celebrates the fun, the adventure, and inspiration that bikes enable” Mr Cotter said.

“OUR stellar 2023 compilation contains 10 mesmerizing films that are as varied and diverse as you could hope for.

“THIS global programme contains a World premiere, two fabulous Australian films, and an assortment of international films having their premiere here as well.”

RETURN to Dillon Cone, set and shot in the rugged coastal KaikÅura ranges in New Zealand opens the bike film night extravaganza up, following a team who

have spent five years formulating a dream; an attempt to reach an unridden peak accessible only by river.

THE expedition has only one option to get there, taking on the jagged gorges of the Clarence River (Waiau-toa awa) by packraft, and afterwards travelling by mountain bike, in their pursuit of summiting the steep shingleladen slopes of the imposing Dillon Cone.

A host of other films will be showcased from 7.30pm at Yackandandah Public Hall, including a young Australian bikepacker’s scenic trip to hell, a visually commanding film set in Tuscany following a 74-year-old rider, and

an insight into the challenges of managing a 320km gravel race while parenting over a 24 hour period, among others.

“THE power of storytelling is at the forefront of what we offer, and the belief that the humble bicycle can improve our health, inspire and uplift people with where it can take us,” Mr Cotter said.

“THE event brings together communities with stories that captivate us, stories that make us think, and most importantly of all- inspiring us to get out and ride.”

FOR more information and to buy tickets visit www.bigbikefilmnight.nz.

Major arterial forecast to re-open this month

BEECHWORTH-Wodonga Road is expected to be reopened to light vehicles by the end of the month, following an extensive closure as a result of a damaged culvert at Rising Sun Creek.

A Bailey Bridge is set to be erected over the damaged culvert before the end of July, however, heavy vehicles will be expected to continue detouring via Chiltern using the Beechworth-Chiltern Road and the Hume Freeway.

According to a Regional Roads Victoria spokesperson, assessment of the culvert damage and appropriate repair works to the stone culvert were ongoing, and had been made complicated due to a commitment to maintain the historical amenity of the structure.

UNDER REPAIRS: A historic stone culvert at Rising Sun Creek remains under assessment, however, a Bailey Bridge will enable transport along BeechworthWodonga Road by the end of the month. PHOTO: RRV

Full repairs are expected to be completed by lateSeptember, however, the timeline is weather-dependent.

A 20-tonne load limit will also remain in place to the section of Beechworth-Wo-

donga Road east of Wooragee, where a second culvert has suffered damage.

Traffic lights will be onsite in the area, with traffic reduced to one lane and a reduced speed limit in place.

CELEBRATING CYCLING: The ninth Big BIke Film Night will be taking place in Yackandandah on August 12 at 7:30pm and will celebrate the adventure of cycling.

MPs put games decision on blast Celebrating

By RYAN MALCOLM

BENAMBRA Liberal MP

Bill Tilley has lamented a “broke” State Government, following the decision to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games earlier this week.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Tuesday the 2026 games, which were scheduled to be hosted at four major regional hubs in Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, and Gippsland, would be cancelled amid a projected cost blowout to at least $6b, after an initial allocation of $2.6b was announced last year.

The figure, which Mr Andrews said had the potential to swell above $7b, was said to be more than twice the forecast economic benefit the games would bring to the state.

Mr Tilley said it was a disappointing result for the athletes involved and for local communities.

“This is what happens when a government is broke – we end up with potholed roads, losing health workers and now the embarrassment of abandoning the Commonwealth Games,” he said.

“The games were a chance to invest in regional grassroots sport, update some pretty tired sporting infrastructure, and there’s

Barkly Park, as well as Chiltern and Yackandandah’s home grounds that are classic examples of being overlooked, neglected or underfunded.

“My heart goes out to the athletes too – they train for years for these events, for some it’s a lifetime goal – a home nation games.”

While the games will not go ahead as planned, Mr Andrews announced the regional legacy benefits, such as social housing and tourism, would

still benefit from a $2b package earmarked to be spent throughout the regions, which will also see the permanent new and upgraded sporting infrastructure projects planned for the games completed as planned.

A $60m regional community sport development fund poised to provide aquatic centres, indoor stadiums, lighting upgrades and walking and cycling paths was also announced for regional

Victorians, as was a $40m all abilities sport fund to remove barriers to sport for those living with a disability.

“Locals have told us that more places to live and more places to stay across regional Victoria is what really matters – so that’s exactly what we’ll deliver,” he said.

Wangaratta-based One Nation upper house MP, Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, said the $2b funding package would be better off di-

rected towards healthcare, education, infrastructure and job creation in regional Victoria.

“This decision disregards the opportunity to showcase Victoria internationally and signifies a failure in prioritising the needs of the people,” she said.

“This cancellation highlights the need for responsible financial management and a transparent approach in decision-making.”

NOW is the time to think about someone amazing who you would like to thank for their tireless work tions open for the 2023 Community that ple who have contributed to their community, no matter how big or less unsung heroes that dedicate their time to helping the lives of All nominees will receive a letter cate

tember 1, with judging to take Winners will be announced on Friday, December 1 at the 2023 Community Achievement Awards

f

Alternatively, you can also call saustralia.com with the nominees

BETTER SPENDING: Northern Victoria MP Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell called for funding earmarked for the Commonwealth Games to be redirected into healthcare and education.

PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm

Stage set for Cosi production

ALL is set for the long-awaited opening of Beechworth Theatre Company’s production of the Australian comedy classic Cosi tonight at the Beechworth Memorial Hall.

After what feels like an eternity since it was first meant to be staged back in May until COVID struck members of the cast, director Janet Tweedie could hardly believe opening night had finally arrived.

“Things are going really well for opening night and the cast and crew are really excited to finally get back on stage,” Janet said.

“Everyone is well, there’s no sickness around!

“And it’s such a wonderful play that I know the audience will enjoy on all sorts of levels.

“It will definitely spark some interesting conversations.

“Tickets are selling well but there are lots of good seats still available.

“The bar will be open, the heaters will be on and you will experience a night of unforgettable theatre.”

Louis Nowra’s semiautobiographical story is set in a Melbourne

mental institution in 1971 and explores the themes of friendship, romance, community and difference, as it follows the journey of Lewis; a young man fresh out of university, who is employed by the institution to direct a drama production with the patients.

The crazy, heartwarming comedy features troubled but lov-

able characters and biting social commentary, particularly on the continuing double standards on expectations of love and fidelity for men and for women; on social and gender stereotypes, and on the definition of “madness”.

It is indeed partly a ‘coming of age’ story of a young man as he struggles to cope in a

Community organisations share in grant funding

By CHLOE JAENICKE

TWO local groups have received grants as part of the Federal Government’s Stronger Community Program.

Independent Indi federal MP Helen Haines, this week announced 16 organisations within the electorate would share in $150,000 in grant funding, of between $3100 and $15,000 to help maintain and improve infrastructure and facilities and purchase much-needed equipment.

Indigo Shire Council has received $15,000 to install shade sails at the Tangambalanga Active Park while Willows Reserve Wahgunyah committee of management has been granted $10,000 to purchase a commercial mower.

Dr Haines said 116 expressions of interest were received for the program across Indi, with each assessed on their ability to encourage and support participation in local projects, increase community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities.

“The number of quality projects we reviewed is a testament of the incredible projects happening right across Indi,” she said.

“So many of these projects are occurring in shared spaces across our communities, in the community halls, shared recreation reserves and our art spaces.

situation that is way over his head and tests his ideas of friendship and the relative importance of ‘the greater good’ versus immediate personal relationships. There will be four performances commencing tonight at 7.30pm, Saturday, July 22 at 2pm and 7.30pm and Sunday, July 23, at 2pm.

People who hold tickets from the original May dates are invited to just turn up to the Beechworth Memorial Hall before the performance of their choice to have their tickets honoured. For those who wish to purchase tickets for the first time, they are $30 at the door or available from stickytickets. com.au.

“It is wonderful to know the benefits from this funding will expand right across our communities.”

Other successful recipients were:

Benalla Scout Group for $6000 to fix the girls toilets at Benalla Scout Hall.

Bonegilla Hall Management Committee for $10,000 for hall refurbishments.

Alpine Park Reserve Wandiligong committee of management for $10,000 for power upgrades.

Dederang Picnic Race Club for $10,000 for track upgrade works.

Wangaratta District Men’s Shed to get $10,000 for clubhouse extension.

Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve committee of management to receive $10,000 to install a solar battery system.

WELCOME TO OUR WORLD: Just some of the colourful characters you will see at Beechworth Theatre Company’s production of Cosi which opens tonight at the Beechworth Memorial Hall.

Local councils experiencing pressure for road funding

By RYAN MALCOLM

NORTH East councils have detailed the challenges in addressing the region’s deteriorating road network without further increasing rates, as part of a federal inquiry which sat in Wodonga this week.

Independent Indi MP Helen Haines’ efforts to bring the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport to the region saw strong support from local governments, with seven councils represented at Monday’s hearing.

Dr Haines said the overriding sentiment from governments was a lack of adequate resources to assess roads in the wake of major damage.

“What I heard was a very consistent message from all the witnesses, which was their very deep concern around the resources they have to respond to what is a deteriorating rural and regional roads network,” she said.

“They consistently

talked about their desire to maintain the rate capping – they don’t want to have to charge our ratepayers any more than what they are currently doing – but their resources to respond to the deteriorating state of the roads is really limited.

“Some of them talked about that there was only one assessor available for the region after the (October) floods – other councils later in the day said that one assessor had been bolstered, that the team’s been bolstered so there’s more now.

“But that kind of evidence was really important for the committee to hear.”

With local councils responsible for some 80 per cent of roads across the country, Dr Haines said the committee would look at ways to ensure future federal and state funding is spent throughout the regions in a way which is timely and utilises the most up-to-date data.

She said road sealing and analysis technology had advanced considerably in recent years, and noted there was room for im-

One visit

provement in implementing it across the country.

“It’s incredibly difficult for local government –they’re not responsible for the state roads, they’re responsible for the more minor roads,” she said.

“Having said that, 80 per cent of all of the roads across Australia are taken care of by local government, so they’ve got enormous demands made of them and the funding hasn’t kept up with their needs.

“Queensland is actually the best-practice state in using the latest technology to do regular assessments of the road network and to understand things like fine cracking in our sealing of roads – when you get cracks in the roads, that’s when you get water inundation, and the biggest enemy is water getting in under the seal, that’s what creates the potholes.

“We need to do better in this right across Australia – the technology’s there but I think from a Commonwealth perspective we need to be looking at this and finding ways to make

sure we’re using the most modern science to assess our road network regularly.

“This is one of the most

common issues people bring to my attention is the state of the roads and (I’m) really pleased to be able to play my part in getting the

Commonwealth’s attention on this.”

The committee is expected to table a report before the end of the year.

IMPORTANT EVIDENCE: Independent Indi MP Helen Haines is a member of the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport which sat in Wodonga earlier this week.

ACROSS

3 Which small animal and plant organisms float in the water (8)

7 What was a given name of the composer, Berlioz (6)

8 Name an animal of the Proboscides order (8)

9 What is any of a group of steroid alcohols derived from plants or animals (6)

10 To be too young, is to be what (5-3)

11 What is one thousandth of a kilogram (6)

14 What are sacred songs of hymns (6)

17 Which term describes the dying of tissue as from interruption to circulation (8)

18 Name a socialist society favouring the gradual spread of socialism by peaceful means (6)

19 To recover or regain, is to do what (8)

20 What are short appearance by celebrities (6)

21 To be the poorest, is to be the what (8)

DOWN

1 Which legendary monster is part man and part horse (7)

2 Name another term for the breastbone (7)

3 What is the overture to an opera (7)

4 Who are the sons of one’s sisters (7)

5 What is a physical or mental toil, especially when painful (7)

6 Which hard aromatic seeds of the fruit of an East Indian tree are used as spices (7)

11 Who made the first flight in space, Yuri ... (7)

12 What is the second given name of Sandra Bullock (7)

E-QUATIONS

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

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK

13 Name a cocktail made of gin and vermouth (7)

14 Which senior pupil has the authority for maintaining order (7)

15 Montgomery is the capital of which US State (7)

16 Name the principal bullfighter (7)

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

WHICH WORDS

BIYWORD

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:

Blood-sucking parasite (5)

Daylight saving time (3)

Headband (5)

Mottos (7)

Revulsion (7)

Sick (3)

Silurian (abb)

Smallest amount

Thermal

To

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

THINK

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Life and times of Stanley photographer on display

THE works of famed local photographer George Peach are set to be on display from tomorrow, allowing the community to reflect on his near 60-year career.

Having been given a camera by his mother as a young man, Mr Peach began photographing the world around him, before leaving his Stanley community to work in Melbourne in 1928.

However, he returned regularly, chronicling his experiences in Stanley and the lives of his family.

‘George Peach: A Snapshot of C20th Stanley Life’ will feature a selection of George’s photographs with a focus on children, fashion, transport, work, leisure and life in the local area across 60 years of the 20th century, displayed with George’s original captions.

The exhibition will launch at the Stanley Post and Community Hub, Main Street, Stanley from 2pm

Saturday, July 22 and will remain open until June next year.

The exhibition will be

open from 8.30 to 10.30am and 3.30 to 5.30pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 11am on Saturdays.

Senior citizens come together for Winter Warmers lunch

By ANDREA MACKINLAY

MEMBERS of the Beechworth Senior Citizens Club (BSCC) held a cheery gathering last Wednesday, where they shared a Winter Warmers lunch of soup and dessert with all the trimmings.

The lunch was arranged by the BSCC committee and the food was prepared by Dan from Tanswells Commercial Hotel.

This is a regular event for members to get out and meet with others in a warm and friendly atmosphere at the BSCC hall; a friendly community hub for the members and also for the many individual groups who use the facility.

With the recent prolonged period of cold, wet weather, BSCC’s Chris Dormer said it was important to promote inclusion within the community.

“It is important for people to have a place to go where they feel welcome and included, and to meet and chat with others,” she said.

“New members are always welcome, and, there are several interest groups and a program of activities for those who wish to join in and who are over 55 years of age. Activities include cards (euchre), craft (textiles, fibre and yarn), line dancing,

B.E.A.T.S gentle exercise, tai chi, qigong, table tennis, yoga, and croquet, held on the adjacent outside lawns.”

Activities are focused on all interests and abilities, and are held at the Beechworth Senior Citizens Hall in Harper Avenue.

To join as a new member or to renew your membership please contact beechworth.scc@gmail.com or phone 0405 381 463.

COMMUNITY PASSIONATE: Beechworth’s Steve Gilliver enjoys helping out at community events and being a volunteer on the Golden Horseshoes Festival committee.

Steve Gilliver

STEVE Gilliver was born in Lidcombe, a suburb west of central Sydney. Having spent the first 34 years of his married life in Camden, NSW, working as the financial controller of a business he was involved with, Steve and wife Jennie shifted to Bright in 2006 to enjoy the quieter pace of country Victoria. The couple purchased holiday accommodation in Bright and then moved on to establish holiday accommodation in Eurobin. They retired to Beechworth about six years ago and love living in the town.

What did you do workwise?

In my past life, I was an accountant and one of the directors of a small company supplying game shows and prizes to registered clubs in Sydney before being in hospitality with the accommodation businesses in North East Victoria.

I retired when we moved to Beechworth, but I am kept busy working on our small acreage and assisting with community events from time to time.

What did you love about your work?

I have always had an aptitude for maths and enjoy anything to do with numbers. But I actually don’t miss anything about my past career in particular, except of course for the salary received at the time!

What do you do in the community?

Along with my wife Jennie, my recent community involvement has been on the Beechworth Golden Horseshoes Festival committee for the past three years. We work alongside a small group of dedicated community members to stage a great event held annually on Easter Saturday.

For most of my adult life, I have been an active member of Lions whilst living in Sydney and then Bright Rotary after moving to Victoria. I retired from Rotary about six months ago as the distance to travel was getting a bit much.

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

As our town has amazing and unique build-

ings engulfed in history, it is imperative that the shire places great importance on the preservation of all things heritage in our town and the surrounding towns within our shire. They have great economic value to our community through tourism, and it would be great to see all of these buildings opened for viewing. But we do need volunteers to come forward to enable this to happen.

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

Climate change is my number one issue. I presume that I will be long gone before this really affects me, but I think about the world that my grandchildren will be forced to survive in unless governments around the world get serious about the looming ecological disaster. It also concerns me deeply that people are having so much trouble trying to purchase or rent a home. Housing is in my opinion, a right, not a privilege - everyone deserves to be safe and warm.

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

I would have loved to meet the late Gough Whitlam - a prime minister who not only had a great intellect but had some fresh ideas. I would have shown him Mount Buffalo from the air as I think he would have appreciated the magnificent view.

What book are you reading?

‘The Terminal List’ by American author of thriller novels Jack Carr. It’s not finished yet but a good read so far.

CATCHING UP: Chris Brett, Peter Brett and Enid Stone got chatting at last week’s Winter Warmers event.

PHOTO: Beechworth Senior Citizens Club.

Steve Gilliver, Beechworth

LIFE ON SHOW: Stanley photographer George Peach will have a collection of his works from the 20th century on display from tomorrow at the Stanley Post and Community Hub.

KELLY, Ron.

Passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023. Aged 70 years.

Loved son of Bert and Joyce (both dec).

Loved brother of Ken (dec), Brenda, Lorraine and Marlene.

Loved Dad of Barry, Tash, Shona (dec), Shane and Ben.

Loved father-in-law to Stephanie.

Always loved by Toni.

Loved Big Pop of Christian, Destiny, Lucas and Mason.

Cherished friend of many. Rest in peace, always in our thoughts.

KELLY

The Funeral Service to Celebrate Ron’s life will be held at The Grand Oaks Resort, Mayday Hills, 22 Oak Avenue, Beechworth on Friday, July 28, 2023, commencing at 10.30am. Private cremation.

Beechworth (03) 5728 1052

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Indigo Epic Trail Temporary Closure

The Indigo Epic Trail will be closed temporarily from Monday 14 August for a period of three to four weeks while HVP Plantations completes its harvest operations in and around the Magpie Plantation.

We’re grateful to HVP for allowing us to construct the trail through its plantation, so to ensure the safety of harvest workers and all trail users, the entire trail will be closed during this time.

The Beechworth Mountain Bike Park and Yackandandah Mountain Bike network are both great riding alternatives and we thank everyone in advance for observing all safety and closure signage.

More information is available at: www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/indigoepic

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au

Phone: 1300 365 003

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Matchplay tournament returns convincing winners

By DYLAN POOL

A GREAT day greeted golfers last Sunday, as they assembled for the July Monthly Medal competition.

The course condition was considerably better than last week.

Xavier Palamarczuk had the round of the day winning the medal with 72/69, while the runner up was Dylan Pool with 74/71.

Dean Howard won a ball with 87/74.

No nearest the pins were won.

Three of the four rounds in the matchplay were played.

Dylan Pool accounted for Dave Lang 3&2, Xavier Palamarczuk defeated Dean Howard 6&4 and Jamie Dolny knocked over Andy Croome 4&2.

The next round sees Jamie and Xavier square off, while Dylan will face the winner of Ryan Hayes and Darren Edwards.

Sunday will be a Stableford event, beginning at 11.30 for a midday tee off

Last Wednesday the women played for the July Monthly Medal.

Glenda Marshall took home the medal with her nett score of 73, and Gail Smith was runner up with 77.

Wednesday golf is 8:30am for a 9am hit off

Bushrangers up for the fight

■ From back page Stone, Cartledge, Degan Dolny, Connor Thornton, Tristan Stead and Skip Pieper will be among the unavailabilities tomorrow, but the Bushrangers will find some reprieve in welcoming back Lachie Armstrong, Mitch Anderson and Liam Stephens for his first game in almost two months.

Beechworth now face a potential danger game with Barnawartha tomorrow, who are in the thick of the battle for the fifth and final spot in finals.

The match will be the first time the Bushrangers will have set foot on Baarmutha Park since their win against Chiltern, due to poor ground conditions.

Carey said despite having to train at Wodonga the past fortnight, numbers have remained solid and the team was looking forward to yet another challenging injury period.

“We were very wounded… hopefully we can gather a few more bodies over the next few weeks and continue to keep winning,” he said.

“It’s [Baarmutha Park] terrible, there’s no easy way of putting it which is unfortunate at the moment but we’ve just got to deal with it for the time being and hopefully we can get back there at some stage during the year.”

ADVANCING: Jamie Dolny (pictured) secured a win in the first round of Beechworth Golf Club’s matchplay event.

Up for the fight

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A BATTLE-scarred Bushrangers senior football side crawled their way to a 12-point win at Thurgoona on a day riddled with injuries. Beechworth made a fast start over the Dogs and

were able to hold control of the game going into threequarter time with a sevengoal lead, before the wear and tear of the match kicked in.

Key Bushrangers Connor Stone (concussion) and cocoach Tom Cartledge (leg)

were both early casualties as the injuries mounted towards half-time, leaving the away side to start the second half without a bench and eventually end the game with just 16 players on the field.

Despite holding firm in the third quarter, the Dogs made

the most of the numbers advantage in the last quarter kicking 5.6 to 1.0 and gave Beechworth an almighty scare to finish 10.12 (72) to 13.6 (84).

Co-coach Brayden Carey said it was one of his most difficult tasks as a coach to try

and navigate the haul of ingame injuries.

“Luckily we weren’t outnumbered for too long, but just on the rotations side of it, we couldn’t get any fresh legs on at any time,” he said “We started pretty well, in our third quarter we came

out and kicked a few goals which held us in good stead and we were lucky enough to just hold on.

“Thurgoona played really well and probably should’ve snatched the win right at the end there.”

■ Continued page 11

PROUD GUERNSEY: The Beechworth Bushrangers brought their Indigenous guernseys again this week for Thurgoona’s Indigenous Round match.