Ovens and Murray Advertiser 220923

BEECHWORTH - CHILTERN - RUTHERGLEN - STANLEY - YACKANDANDAH

Decision time

Vote set to decide future of Yackandandah Health amid revised takeover bid

A SPECIAL general meeting to decide the fate of Yackandandah Health is set to be held next week, amid a revised proposal from national aged care provider Apollo Care.

Yackandandah Health stakeholders initially opposed the sale in June, with 61.95pc of members voting in favour of the takeover, shy of the 75pc

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

required to green-light the sale. A number of community members had expressed concerns around the initial proposal, with some citing a lack of engagement in the sale

process and an inability to explore alternatives to Apollo Care.

A new board was elected in the wake of the failed sale, amid concerns the health provider, which currently operates an early learning centre, medical centre, 84-bed aged care facility and retirement village, would need to be placed into voluntary administration if a suitable

buyer could not be found.

Board members met with residents, families and Yackandandah Health staff earlier this month to explain their support of a revised takeover by Apollo Care, which board chair Patten Bridge said adopted key elements which arose during an extensive consultation process.

■ Continued page 2

MAJOR RECOGNITION: Drag’d Out Beechworth’s co-creative director Andrew Madden (left) with committee members Ellen McNeil, Kate O’Toole, Chris Cole, Tim Cole-Jarred, Robyn Dunstan and treasurer Scott Daintry are over the moon to be a finalist in this year’s KABV Awards. Story page 3.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

INDIGO Shire land management groups are set to receive thousands of dollars in state funding, as part of the 2023 Victorian Landcare Grants initiative.

Announced earlier this week, seven local groups will share in a total of more than $100,000 as a result of the latest round of funding, in order to complete

important management works.

Three other Indigo Shire groups will receive support grants of $500.

Indigo Creek Landcare Group Inc. was the shire’s biggest winner, securing $19,600 to support the protection and enhancement of woodlands and native grasslands, and improve

Vote to decide future of Yackandandah Health

■ From front page

“Over the last nine weeks, the Yackandandah Health Limited board has consulted extensively with the residents, families, staff and members associated with the Yamaroo, Little Yacks, the medical centre and the broader community,” he said.

“The clear message we have received is the importance of providing certainty regarding the ongoing continuation of these critical services to our community.

“The Yack Health board believes that a modified Apollo Care offer, which takes into account the key questions raised through the consultation process, is offering the best and most secure option for the ongoing delivery of these services to our community.

“We are confident in the feedback we have received over the last nine weeks that this process will be supported by our members.”

More than 350 members are expected to vote, with membership numbers rising exponentially since June.

Upgrades set for Telstra 4G and 5G networks

TELSTRA will be upgrading its mobile base station in Beechworth by adding additional infrastructure to improve 4G and 5G connectivity later this month, with temporary outages expected as works are completed.

Coverage during daylight hours from Wednesday, September 27 to October 4 is anticipated to experience sporadic interruptions, however, there will be no impact to service on September 29, over the weekend or after 5pm on any day.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.

Any calls to Triple Zero form a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

native pasture management.

Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups also received $19,600, as did Mitta 2 Murray Landcare Inc.

Rutherglan Landcare Group was awarded $19,200 to preserve forest nectar resources with dedicated European Honey Bee plantations, while Wooragee

Landcare Group Inc. received $13,800 for habitat enhancement and education.

Some $11,528 was awarded to Gap Flat Catchment Management Group, and Beechworth Urban Landcare and Sustainability Inc. received $7500 for native vegetation management around the town.

Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt said the funding aimed to support education activities for children to learn about our environment and biodiversity.

“This funding is an important way that we’re supporting volunteers and their communities to secure our environment for

future generations,” she said.

“Our volunteers are invaluable, and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level.

“Encouraging children to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of nature and community.”

Shire landcare groups win big in latest funding Free postcards promote connection

PREPAID ‘connection postcards’ are expected to be distributed to four million homes across the country in September, in an effort to encourage people to check in with their friends and loved ones.

The collaboration between Australia Post and Beyond Blue comes after research indicated nearly half of all Australians will face mental health challenges during their lifetime, and one 10 Australians experience loneliness in any given year.

The postcards will primarily be delivered to regional and rural households, in an effort to connect residents with important mental health information, services and each other, according to Australia Post executive general manager community, sustainability and stakeholder engagement, Tanny Mangos.

“Feeling connected plays an important role in our mental health

and wellbeing – in an increasingly digital world, taking the time to write a note to a friend or loved one reminds them you are thinking of them and is often cherished,” she said.

Beyond Blue chief executive officer Georgie Harman said the partnership with Australia Post played a significant role in sharing important mental health messages with the community.

“The arrival of the free postcards in letterboxes and post offices represents a powerful gesture of support, enabling Australians to reach out, check in and remind one another of the strength that lies in supporting a friend or family member,” she said.

“Almost everyone experiences loneliness at some stage in their lives, especially those living in rural and remote communities, which is why initiatives like this one are so important to support good mental health practices.”

STAY CONNECTED: Beechworth Post Office staff Carmelina Kuipers, Toni McDonald and Scott Saunders showcase the free ‘connection postcards’.

Local finalists in Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria awards

By CORAL COOKSLEY

DRAG’D Out Beechworth is one of six local finalists in this year’s Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards announced last week by Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (KABV).

Other finalists with projects include Totally Renewable Beechworth with its Home Energy Efficiency Expo and Totally Renewable Yackandandah with Transitioning Yackandandah to 100% renewable energy in the Awards Energy category.

Finalists in the heritage and culture category are Beechworth Lions Club with the repair of the historic Gang Plate Layers cottage while the Burke Museum has been selected for its ‘People of Beechworth’ exhibition.

Wooragee’s Dr Pieter Mourik is a finalist in the Indigenous Culture category with his project on Aboriginal ring trees.

The towns of Beechworth and Yackandandah are two of 25 towns nominated in the Tidy Towns and Cities Award with 21 cities nominated as well, with one from the tally of

46 to be crowned as the winner at an upcoming awards ceremony.

Running for 41 years, the KABV awards recognise, celebrate and share environmental achievements and strong community spirit across Victoria.

The awards program showcases the tireless work of individuals, community g roups, and councils leading the way in environmental stewardship stretching from remote rural areas to bustling urban centres.

Chuffed Drag ’d Out creative director Andrew Madden said to be a finalist in the well-being category meant a realisation of how many layers in the local community had been touched by the event.

Celebrating the drag art form, the family-friendly festival unites people from diverse backgrounds while drawing people from far and wide with its inclusive and safe entertainment for all ages.

“People feel much happier after the event, and stories that come out of what has been achieved with this festival filters into the community in so many

ways that you don’t even imagine - just by putting on entertainment and allowing people to be themselves,” Mr Madden said.

Burke Museum and cultural heritage acting manager, and collections manager Ashleigh Giffney, said the ‘People of Beechworth’

exhibition showcased the town’s community history shaped by contributions by everyday people.

“Whether it’s through

their work, hobbies, or relationships, each person adds something unique and valuable to the story of Beechworth,” she said.

Ms Giffney said the exhibition aims to link each modern resident with an aspect of the town’s past, highlighting how everyday life contributes to the creation of community.

“While these modern stories are today’s history, in 100 years’ time, they will be part of community history,” she said.

A combined 30 volunteers both in-house and online worked on the project.

Local award entries for volunteer projects have been organised by long standing local town committee members Iris Mannik and Anne Wilson, supported by Indigo Shire.

Excited finalists from around the state will head to an awards evening on October 23 to be held at Zinc at Federation Square in Melbourne where winners will be announced.

A headline performance on the evening includes four drag queens who perform at Drag’d Out Beechworth.

Tinned Spaghetti

Tuna

Pasta

Pasta sauce

Tomato sauce

PROUD: Burke Museum and Cultural Heritage acting manager, and Collections manager Ashleigh Giffney is proud the ‘People of Beechworth’ exhibition with hundreds of hours of volunteer work is a KABV finalist this year.

History must be key consideration

We have been told time and time again the Indigo Shire Council is dedicated to preserving the priceless and irreplaceable history of Beechworth.

If that is so will the council be vigorously opposing the development of the land around the Old Beechworth Gaol into a housing estate as described in the (Heritage Victoria permit application P36077).

The Old Beechworth Gaol including its surrounds is one of the most historic sites in Victoria, indeed Australia.

There was a quarry on the site that was used to source stone for the construction of the gaol and afterwards as a dump.

It is a very significant archaeological site and must not be destroyed by a housing development.

It must be protected.

John Harvey, Beechworth

Editor’s note: Last week’s Ovens and Murray Advertiser front page story ‘permit angst’ detailed similar concerns raised by community members. The subdivision application through Heritage Victoria relates to a proposed four-stage development outside the gaol’s walls. To view the application, visit https://www.heritage.vic.gov. au/protecting-our-heritage/currently-advertisedpermits.

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 Ovens & Murray Advertiser

North East Media 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, Vic 3677

School cattle team showcase skills at Melbourne Show

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A YOUNG Rutherglen High School (RHS) 10-member cattle handling team with five steers will throw their hats in the contest ring this weekend at the Royal Melbourne Show.

Students from Years 8, 10, 11 and 12 took part in the 2023 school program leading up to the show’s ‘Beef Carcase’ competition to be held tomorrow and Sunday.

Earlier this year students began to feed cattle until settled, train them in getting used to being brushed, then gradually led them with a halter.

RHS agriculture teacher Ron Webb said the cattle were then clipped and trucked to Melbourne ready for the show.

A number of prizes awarded at the Show’s ‘Beef Carcase Competition’ includes the Borthwick Trophy- widely recognised as the most prestigious interbreed steer and carcase award in Australia.

It’s a one-way trip for the cattle following competitions with prizes for ‘Led Steer’ (or Heifer) where judges assess cattle on the

hoof, and ‘School and College Paraders’ where students compete with other schools in handling and presenting the animals in the showring with the final one competing in the coveted Borthwick Trophy if selected.

Mr Webb said the school team representing the Australian Shorthorn breed had clinched the Borthwick Trophy for the last two years for the best three purebred steers selected by breed societies.

“We might be selected

to compete again as part of a breed team this year,” he said.

Mr Webb said cattle are taken to the abattoirs at the end of the show, and then become part of the Hook (or Carcase competition).

He said among the school’s cattle program benefits are being taught responsibility for feeding, and resilience.

“Cattle also teach students perseverance as they need to be broken in slowly and students must

remain patient throughout the process otherwise the animal will not correctly lead,” he said.

“Students also learn about the concept of ‘farm to table’ with cattle entered in the carcase competition and they are shown carcase characteristics the judge may be looking for.”

Long-time program supporters Leon Martin from Le Martres Limousin Stud, David Spencer from Spencer Family Shorthorns and for the

first time Swan Lagoon Ag have helped this year’s school program.

“Their donation of a steer is greatly appreciated as without cattle we have no program,” Mr Webb said.

“Last year we also won the ‘Champion School or College Led Steer’ (or Heifer) in the Hoof Competition.“

Mr Webb said one student scored ‘Junior Champion Parader’ while another two won their age group heats too.

TRAINED UP: Rutherglen High School cattle handling team members (back, from left) Lucy Dunne (Year 10), Year 11 students Georgie Kelly, Annie Johnson, Kayla Horne, Nikita Larsen and Lachlan Dunne and (front, from left) Year 8 students Hannah Robbins, Matilda Lewis, Year 12 student Jessi Davis and Ebony BrunskillMills (Year 8) will compete this weekend at the Royal Melbourne Show.

Rutherglen hosts nation’s best

By CORAL COOKSLEY

JUDGES began tasting wines when the nation’s longest running wine show of 136 years kicked off on Monday at the Henderson Pavilion at Rutherglen Showgrounds.

The Rutherglen Wine Show has the biggest Australian Fortified Wine Show in the nation running alongside too.

Chief wine judge Andrew Santarossa (from Gapsted Estate) said in the wake of the first day of tasting earlier this week he had been particularly impressed by the Durif wines on show.

“I really think it showed the strength of the Rutherglen region,” he said.

The chief winemaker said the master-class of Topaque and Muscat is an extremely important one for the region and the show.

“Looking at some of the still wine classes, the strength of the 2022 vintage has really shone through,” he said.

“There have been some wonderful examples and we’re very excited by the wines from all around Australia.”

Some 950 entries comprising 830 table wines and 120 fortified wines were judged throughout the week, a similar tally to last year.

Mr Santarossa said wine shows are about benchmarking wines against their peers.

He said it is a fantastic opportunity for the exhibitors entering wines as well as training development for the next generation of wine industry personnel.

“They get to learn about the show system, being

mentored and gain experience on styles they don’t normally see in their winery regions,” he said.

“Rutherglen is the heart of the fortified wine industry in Australia and it’s a jewel in the crown for us.”

Mr Santarossa said the wine show also gave participating students from Charles Sturt (Wagga cam-

pus) and Adelaide universities an extra level of understanding of the industry.

“It’s fantastic for networking where they meet a lot of industry professionals,” he said.

Wine Show committee chair Chris Pfeiffer said judges are selected from a range of different areas of

winemaking expertise and skill sets.

“Masterclasses on fortified wines are run for all the judges as it’s part of our show responsibility to educate people in the business,” he said.

A 10-member judging panel from South Australia, Victoria, NSW and Tasmania were joined by 12 associate judges from local wineries, which also included representatives from Charles Sturt (Wagga campus) and Adelaide universities.

Rutherglen Wine Show committee member Jen Pfieffer said the show had received great support again this year despite industry difficulties.

“The wine industry is in a period of oversupply that places pressure on prices, and we understand the costof-living pressures too felt by everyone,” she said.

A public tasting will be held next Friday, September 29 from 6.30pm to 10pm at the Henderson Pavilion in the Rutherglen Showground, 171 High Street, Rutherglen.

Costs and booking information for the combined Rutherglen Agricultural Society and Winemakers of Rutherglen event can be found by visiting the RWS website at www.rutherglenwineshow.com.au.

Tony Abbott to voice ‘No’ vote support at Wodonga

FORMER Prime Minister Tony Abbott will visit The Cube at Wodonga on Monday night, where he will outline his opposition to an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

The free event will see Australia’s 28th Prime Minister, who also spent time as Minister for Indigenous Affairs and special envoy to Indigenous Affairs, explain why he views the upcoming October 14 referendum as ‘divisive’.

Ahead of his tour of Victoria, Mr Abbott said a better deal for all Indigenous people should be a key part of Australia’s national project.

“But the challenge is to find a way of doing this that doesn’t divide Australians by race and end up making an unsatisfactory situation worse,” he said.

“Especially on something as sensitive as the recognition of Indigenous people in the Constitution, it’s a big mistake to sponsor a referendum proposal that might fail.

“Voting no to this divisive voice should mean a reset to the Indigenous separatism that has bedeviled us these past five decades and allow all Australians to go forward again as one united people.”

The event will commence at 6pm, and bookings are essential.

To book a ticket, visit https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1119724.

PERKS OF THE JOB: Rutherglen Wine Show chief wine judge Andrew Santarossa from Gapsted Wines with winemaker and judge Amy Sutherland Smith from Warrabilla Wines in the Rutherglen region compared notes this week.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Est. 1855

Local volunteers dig in support of National Tree Day

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677

Phone: (03) 5723 0100 Fax: (03) 5721 9447

www.omadvertiser.com.au

Classifieds 5723 0101 or classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Display Advertising: 5723 0100 or sales@nemedia.com.au

Editorial: 5723 0130 or edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, 3677.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by

Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

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

NEWSPAPER DEADLINES:

YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM

By CORAL COOKSLEY

AROUND 20 volunteers pitched in to dig, rake and wheelbarrow when 150 plants were bedded on Sunday at Beechworth Bush Botanic Gardens to mark this year’s National Tree Day event.

Beechworth Urban Landcare and Sustainability (BULS) members and willing community volunteers took part in digging in 150 bush tucker plants.

BULS president Russell James said the groups have a keen interest in looking after the biodiversity of Beechworth and its surrounds.

Editor Ryan Malcolm Correspondent Coral Cooksley Sport Bailey Zimmermann

Advertising Sales 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

Member

Follow us

www.omadvertiser.com.au

“We’re here at the bush botanic gardens to plant another few garden beds to showcase a way that people can easily access a range of plants that Aboriginal people use for such things as food, weaving and medicine,” he said.

Indigo Shire Council funded the purchase of the plants while Beechworth Honey also supported Sunday’s event.

Mr James said the Bush Botanic Gardens

(located near the Chinese Gardens) is a great site where people can see many native plants, local biodiversity, as well as some bushtucker plants from outside the region.

BULS member Mary Bould had joined with close friend and neigh-

bour the late Ali Garnet in leading the garden project around six years ago.

BULS, Indigo Shire Council, Beechworth Honey, the local CFA, Beechworth Correctional Service community team, the Beechworth Men’s Shed and a dedi-

cated group of volunteers have supported the ongoing project where its official opening ceremony took place in August last year.

Recently elected Indigo Shire Councillor Sue Gold addressed the volunteers where she acknowledged

their achievements.

“It’s fantastic that Indigo Shire Council offer a raft of small grants to help with this work,” she said.

“When you come out to groups like BULS and see what landcare can achieve with a small grant with an army of supporters and networkers who help with the materials such as the mulch and the wood for the seating, and you see what can be done like today with the planting of native foods species, I think it’s really exciting to see how small grants can go a long way for a volunteer organisation.

“It’s an enormous benefit for the community as the rest of us can enjoy the Bush Botanic Gardens from what the volunteers have done.”

Planet Ark’s National Tree Day started 27 years ago where it has developed into Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event.

While trees can be planted any day, annual dedicated events for National Tree Day are held on the last Friday and Sunday in July.

BUSH GARDEN PROUD: Beechworth Honey’s Amanda Hausler (left), BULS member and Beechworth Bush Botanic Gardens co-founder Mary Bould, Indigo Shire councillor Sue Gold and BULS member Sally Anfruns at the tree planting event last Sunday to mark National Tree Day.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Local MPs share how they will vote in referendum

By DARREN CHAITMAN

MPs in the Northern Victoria region have been asked by North East Media whether they will vote Yes or No in the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum.

The MPs contacted were Labor Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes; Liberal Member for Benambra Bill Tilley, Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad; Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell; Animal Justice Party Member for Northern Victoria Georgie Purcell; and One Nation Member for Northern Victoria Rikki-Lee Tyrell.

Mr Tilley said he would be voting No, believing a

lack of detail around how The Voice would work and how it would improve the lives, health and education of Indigenous Australians as key sticking points.

Ms Symes said she’ll be voting Yes as “this is the best chance of significantly shifting the dial on delivering better outcomes for First Nations people”.

“It doesn’t take anything away from non-Indigenous Australians but ensures that government and policy makers consult with, and listen to, the expertise and lived experience of First Nations people on matters that affect them,” she said.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and be proud that we are home to

Federal MP to vote ‘Yes’

Helen Haines, the Independent federal MP for Indi was not contacted because she has made it clear in public statements she is supporting the Yes vote.

“I believe the Voice to Parliament will have a practical impact on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,” Dr Haines said in a speech made in parliament earlier this year.

the oldest continuing culture in the world.”

Ms Purcell also said she is voting Yes.

• Helen Haines

“I believe that because I’ve seen the results when people are consulted and listened to when it comes to developing and implementing policies that affect their lives.”

“I believe a Voice to Parliament is an important step towards reconciliation,” she said.

“Australia is home to the oldest living continuing culture in the world, and a good government will listen to how the decisions they make impact them before moving forward.”

Ms Tyrell was the sole MP to confirm she will vote No.

“All Australians are represented in the constitution, regardless of race, age, gender or orientation,” she said.

“I don’t believe that voting for a change to recognise a particular race or orientation is a step in the right direction.

“I believe it will only create more division and continue to widen that gap that we all want to see closed among Australians.”

Ms Broad and Ms Lovell declined to share how they will vote in the referendum.

“As we approach the Voice to Parliament referendum on Saturday, October 14, I encourage everyone who will get the opportunity to vote, to consider the different perspectives and make an informed decision,” Ms Broad said.

Ms Lovell said the upcoming referendum is “a personal and private decision for every Australian voter”.

“I have made the decision not to discuss my position publicly as I do not want to be seen as attempting to influence others as to how they should vote,” she said.

• Bill Tilley

• Wendy Lovell

• Jaclyn Symes

• Gaelle Broad

• Georgie Purcell

• Rikki-Lee Tyrrell

IN recent weeks the Australian Electoral Commission has been distributing, to households, an official pamphlet (pictured) outlining the arguments for the yes and no cases ahead of the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament.

The arguments contained in the pamphlet have been provided by Members of Parliament and Senators and circulated.

Feedback The Wangaratta Chronicle has received suggests not all householders have received the pamphlet.

We have summarised below the arguments ahead of voters being asked to vote either yes or no to altering

“the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice”.

The referendum, if successful, will see the government move to establish a permanent body, with the ability to make representations to the government, its departments and agencies, to provide advice on laws relating to Indigenous people.

The government would not be bound by the advice of the body.

The Voice Referendum Why to vote yes or no

What the body looks like can be determined and changed by the government of the day.

WHY TO VOTE YESWHY TO VOTE NO

1. The idea for the Voice came directly from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and yes voters are supporting a proposal backed by over 80 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The call for a Voice did not come from politicians.

2. Constitutional recognition is a powerful statement that will drive practical change. Yes voters are sending a powerful message to the world about Australia’s unity and are making a practical difference for the future. Generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have enriched our nation. Voting Yes is an act of reconciliation that will deliver real results.

3. The Voice is a vehicle to deliver real improvements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in life expectancy, infant mortality and health, education and employment. For a long time, governments with good intentions have spent billions trying to deal with these issues. The current approach is broken and the Voice is our best chance to fix it.

4. Voting yes will mean reconciling our past and moving to a better future. At the 1967 referendum Australian voted Yes to changing the Constitution, so Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would be counted in the population in the same way as everyone else. It was a unifying step and together we have a chance to take the next step. A Other nations with similar histories,

like Canada and New Zealand, formally recognised their own First Peoples decades ago.

5. Voting yes will save money because governments from both sides have invested billions in programs that haven’t fixed problems or reached communities. a Voice will help us listen to locals and save money. We’re all better of when governments don’t waste taxpayer money on things that aren’t working.

6. The time is right now. The idea of a Voice has been decades in the making. Voting NO means nothing will change. Don’t risk more of the same like worse life expectancy, worse results in education and employment, worse outcomes in health. Vote Yes to break this cycle and unite our nation.

7. The Voice will advise on practical steps to improve Indigenous health, education, employment and housing. putting the Voice in the Constitution gives it stability and independence, now and into the future. This means the Voice can give frank advice, without getting caught up in short-term politics.

8. Voting yes means governments will get better advice and deliver better outcomes. The change has been backed by constitutional experts, including senior lawyers and former High Court judges. They say the Voice is constitutionally and legally sound and will enhance our system of government.

1. The Voice is legally risky. Enshrining a Voice in the Constitution means it is open to legal challenge and interpretation by the High Court. Legal experts don't agree, and can’t know for sure, how the High Court will interpret such a constitutional change. The Voice has not been road tested. There is no comparable constitutional body like this anywhere in the world.

2. There are no details. We don't know how it will help disadvantaged communities or how many members will be elected, or how this would occur. We also don't know how it would make representations or be held accountable. These details would only be worked through after Australians have voted. Australians shouldn't be asked to sign a blank cheque.

3. Enshrining in our Constitution a body for only one group of Australians means permanently dividing Australians. This goes against a key principle of our democratic system, that all Australians are equal before the law. Our national anthem was recently changed to reflect the fact we are “one and free”. The Voice would permanently divide Australians, in law and spirit.

4. It won’t help Indigenous Australians. There are currently hundreds of Indigenous representative bodies at all levels of government, along with the National Indigenous Australians Agency,

which has 1400 staff. More bureaucracy is not the answer.

5. This Voice model isn't just to the Parliament, it goes to “Executive Government” that includes all departments and agencies. Legal experts have expressed concern about its scope. Decisions in relation to the economy, national security, infrastructure, health, education and more, would all be within its scope.

6. It risks delays and dysfunction. Many legal experts have warned the Voice could cause considerable delays in decision making creating a risk of dysfunctional government.

7. What comes next? Already, many activists are campaigning to abolish Australia Day, change our flag and other institutions.

8. It will be costly and bureaucratic as we don’t know how much additional funding would be allocated to this Voice, another detail that will be determined after the referendum.

9. This Voice will be permanent. It will not be legislation that can be reversed.

10. There are better ways forward. The referendum is not about simply recognising Indigenous Australians in the Constitution. Recognition has widespread support, however this Voice proposal is the problem.

SOURCE: The Australian Government’s Referendum Booklet. Both the yes and no sides of the debate were provided with a word count of 2000 words to present their arguments. The Yes campaign provided 8 reasons and the No campaign provided 10.

Growing your own for food security

By CORAL COOKSLEY

TOP tips for sowing seed and planting out seedlings for people to successfully grow their own food was the focus at a Beechworth Food Co-op workshop on Saturday.

The third session in the ‘Grow it, Sow it’ series by the Co-op held at Fat Goose Farm with Charlie and Faye Robinson drew around 15 keen vege gardeners.

Stanley’s Lyndee Owen said she found the event rewarding being with likeminded people as well as a refresh of her knowledge.

“There’s so much to learn from Charlie and Faye from what they can offer,” she said.

Lyndee said the workshop followed an earlier one held in May about improving soil composition.

“I found Charlie and

Faye’s tips for composting really useful,” she said.

Beechworth Co-Op president Fiona Wigg said a key message delivered by Charlie was how simple it is to grow your own food.

“You don’t need a lot of expensive equipment or a lot of knowledge to be able to grow staples like potatoes, corn and tomatoes,” she said.

“We feel that it’s really important that people have these skills on how to grow their own food because food security is becoming more of an issue with an unstable climate.

“And with the long supply chains that our supermarkets rely on to get food, they’re more likely to be disrupted in future with severe climate weather events.”

Mr Robinson said some of his key messages from

the day included the world facing a food shortage.

“Globally it has been predicted there will be a famine within maybe two years, and that we can have famines on both sides of the hemispheres at the same time,” he said.

“It’s important to get the message of food security down to the individual level and that’s why these workshops have been running.

“With the cost-of-living crisis and interest rate payments going up, our message is once you get that seedstock you can grow from food for free.

“We bought heritage seeds 16 years ago, and we’ve grown free food since then.”

For more information on the Beechworth Food Co-op and its events visit website beechworthfoodcoop.org. au.

Vivienne loves her life in Beechworth

VIVIENNE Harvey’s grandparents came to Beechworth from Eldorado in the late 19th Century. She was born here and has lived in the town most of her life except for about 20 years away. Her daughter and family have also returned from overseas to live in Beechworth.

“I love Beechworth with Lake Sambell, the gorge, the old post office, the granite buildings and street trees, the bush on one side and the forests on the other side of the town, and the sense of community amongst people. I feel very lucky to live here,” she said.

What did you do workwise?

I worked as a secondary teacher at first. Later I taught English as a second language. For the last 20 years before retiring, I had my own business as a photographer and sold greeting cards made with my photos.

What brought you to your photography role?

Sunday, September 24

QUERCUS BEECHWORTH. Cardio Drumming. Fun way to strengthen heart and lungs, build confidence and experience a full body workout, followed by a hydrating tea or smoothie. 11am or 2pm. Oregon Hall. Visit quercusbeechworth.org.au to book.

FRIENDS OF THE BURKE MUSEUM/BEECHWORTH OLD CRANKS CLUB/BEECHWORTH FILM SOCIETY. 3.30pm. A story in pictures and words by Beechworth local Rob Orchard –mechanic and stuntman for original Mad Max movie and work history as an ANSETT jet engine technician. Beechworth Town Hall. Tickets $10 per head at the door.

Saturday, September 30

ARTS YACKANDANDAH. ‘Sounds of Spring’. An intimate evening of storytelling through song. Yackandandah Courthouse. Doors open 7pm for a show start at 7.30pm. For tickets and bookings visit www.trybooking.com/ CJZLD.

INDIGO SHIRE LIBRARIES

Visit https://www.indigoshire.vic.gov. au/Community/Libraries/Whats-On-at-ourLibraries for fun school holiday activities at different shire libraries including ‘Paint a Pot’ workshop, ‘The Magician’s Secrets’ and an invitation to next week’s Tiny Art Show exhibition opening at Rutherglen Library.

As a kid I was interested in photography, and I also loved landscape and architecture. One day I realised there was a gap in the market for high quality photographic cards of local scenes. It was possible to start in a small way at first at markets and to learn what images were likely to be popular and to gradually build up the business as I gained experience.

What did you love about your work?

Taking the photos was always enjoyable and I liked the regular marketing trips to the cities and towns. Also it was great to know that my work was appreciated.

What do you do in the community?

I participate in Beechworth Urban Landcare and Sustainability (BULS) working bees to revegetate degraded landscape with indigenous species. The most recent job has been helping to make beds of edible native plants in the Beechworth Bush Botanic Gardens. I’m also a U3A member and am responsible for emailing the weekly list of activities. I’m also on the com-

mittee of BEAT (Beechworth Exercise Activity and Training Group). Currently I’m part of YES 23 Indigo campaigning to give First Nations people a permanent advisory body on issues which concern them.

It feels good to contribute to groups whose work I value and it’s a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

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

Yes, the lack of an after-hours on-call doctor in Beechworth. Apparently it’s possible for the hospital to arrange a telehealth consultation but if you need hands-on treatment by a doctor it means a trip to the Emergency Department of Wangaratta or Wodonga Hospitals.

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

Slowing or reversing the increasing heat of the planet has got to trump all other priorities.

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

My father loved this town and was one of the first advocates of its tourist potential when it was in decline in the 50s and 60s. He would be amazed and pleased to see that it‘s now a thriving tourist destination and that its trees, buildings and landscapes are cared for and valued.

What book are you reading?

‘Born at the Right Time ‘– a memoir by Professor Ron McCallum, who has been blind since his birth in Melbourne in 1948.

KEEN VEGE GARDENERS: Fat Goose Farm’s Charlie Robinson (left) with Beechworth Co-op workshop participants Dominic Alessi, David Hunt, Asha Dilkes-Hoffman, Susann Wiik and Lisa Morrison at last Saturday’s Beechworth Co-op workshop.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley.

COMMUNITY SPIRITED: Vivienne Harvey feels good contributing to community groups whose work she values.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Vivienne Harvey, Beechworth

The Annual General Meeting Beechworth Football and Netball Club (BFNC) will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 6pm at the Baarmutha Park Function Centre.

All interested people are invited to attend. However, only current members are eligible to vote. If you would like to vote but are unable to attend, you can do so by Proxy.

To obtain a Proxy form please contact the BFNC Secretary at secretary@beechworthfnc.com.au

Finance and Administration Manager

North East Media and its subsidiary companies has a vacancy at its head office in Wangaratta (Victoria) for a motivated and experienced accounting and business administration professional to provide administration management, financial management, and HR support across the group.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful applicant will be responsible for the provision of day-to-day accounting and financial management responsibilities in the company. They will deliver on all financial and management accounting requirements within allocated deadlines, collaborate with the wider business to optimise finance operations and provide insightful financial and team information to the CEO for strategic decision making.

Essential Experience:

management and the ability to multitask while working autonomously.

role and the group.

data entry and financial record-keeping.

to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders.

We offer a competitive and attractive salary package for the right person and the chance to build a good long-term stable career with a well-respected employer.

letter to:

Edward Higgins

CEO North East Media Pty Ltd

ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

2001 Honda CRV sport wagon (XYL126), nice paint work, all panels straight, interior v.g.c, incl seats and carpet. 4 good A.T tyres. Has little problem with overheating, good for motor swap or parts. Reg to Oct 19, 2023. $800, 235,000k’s on clock. Ph 0422 408 895.

2009 VE SS Holden ute, Tow bar, auto, 6 ltr V8 motor, grey leather interior like new, whole car is like new and totally standard, only travelled 67,000km in 14 years, garaged, new tyres and more, (1BC4SG), recently ceramic treated. One of the best around, $45,000 neg. Ph 0428 662 847.

2011 VW Tiguan 2.0 103TDi 5n auto (YIF824), silver, tow b ar, 242,000km used as work commute car, full service history, automatic, diesel, rwc, rego july 2024, $9900 neg, ph 0427 333 417.

2005, 17ft Crusader pop top caravan, twin beds, single axle, 3-way fridge, reverse cycle air conditioner, 4 burner gas cook top and grill, microwave, tv/aerial, pull out awning and walls, vic registered till September 2024, $19,500. Ph 0419 272 495.

John & Christine Haddrick

Palamarczuk takes matchplay crown

By DYLAN POOL

IT was a cracking Spring day last Sunday.

Beechworth Golf Course is looking fantastic and it was great to see so many out having a social hit as well.

The winner of the stableford comp with a great score of one over off the stick was Xavier Palamarczuk (4) with 39 points.

After returning from a long hiatus, Willem Love (7) found his form, finishing runner-up with 36 points, and their playing partner Dylan Pool (4) came third with 35 points.

Others to do well were Andy Croome (17) 32, Dave Lang (17) 31 and Jamie Dolny (16) 30.

Only one nearest the pin went off and that went to Xavier on the 10th.

The final of the George King Memorial was played between Xavier Palamarczuk and Dylan Pool, and it would be no surprise that Chook (Palamarczuk) won that matchplay event, looking at the scores, but it was a great high-standard game with the end result a 3&1 win to Chook.

Next Sunday will be another stableford event, starting at 11.30am for a midday hit off.

Remember to also get your team in for the AFL public holiday ambrose competition on Friday,

Chiltern claim extraordinary TDFL decider

By DANIEL SAVILLE

CHILTERN have come from the clouds to produce arguably their best-ever win on the biggest stage to secure back-to-back premierships.

Three goals down at threequarter time against the league’s best team would usually spell trouble, but the Swans ran right over the top of the Hawks to produce a Sandy Creek special that will be remembered for decades to come.

A record crowd at the MCG of the bush was present to witness one of the best matches in TDFL history, where Kiewa-Sandy

Creek were in front for the large majority of the contest, except for when it mattered most.

The 10.9 (69) to 9.12 (66) scoreline would cap off a fairytale finals series for Chiltern, who finished the home and away season in fourth position.

It was far from the ideal preparation for the Swans, who were missing Fin Lappin due to suspension from an incident in the preliminary final, but also had to play their fourth consecutive final, compared to the Hawks who had a fortnight to get ready for the season decider.

Chiltern’s Mark Doolan

(five goals) and Kiewa-Sandy Creek’s Connor Newnham (four goals) were their team’s biggest contributors to the scoreboard, while Swans ruckman Scott Meyer won the best-on-ground medal.

TDFL Grand Final Results:

Seniors – Chiltern 10.9 (69) def Kiewa-Sandy Creek 9.12 (66)

Reserves – Chiltern 12.8 (80) def Yackandandah 4.2 (26)

Under 17 – Kiewa-Sandy Creek 8.16 (64) def Rutherglen 5.9 (39)

Under 14 – DederangMount Beauty 4.10 (34) d Yackandandah 4.7 (31)

Kiewa clinch back-to-back netball premierships

By DANIEL SAVILLE

IT was a case of déjà vu for Kiewa-Sandy Creek’s A grade netball side as the best team in the competition won their second consecutive title.

as they won the seesawing final by four goals against Yackandandah (41-37).

able to hold on to a matchwinning lead to claim a thrilling victory.

Volkswagen T-Cross

September 29, with play commencing from 9.30am with a 10am tee.

Fantastic prizes are on offer on the day.

Also a big thanks to the sponsor of the day Short & Sweet Concrete.

In both of their last two seasons, the Hawks have convincingly finished on top of the ladder, but then unexpectedly lost their second semi-final on their way to grand final triumphs.

Despite finishing the regular season as runaway minor premiers after not dropping a game in 18 rounds of netball in 2023, KiewaSandy Creek were made to work for the full 60 minutes

The Kangaroos defeated the Hawks only a fortnight ago and seemed to have their opponent’s measure at various stages throughout the game, although momentum swings were evident for both sides in a result that could have gone either way.

KSC took an early fourgoal advantage into the first break, but Yack fought back to be in the lead by the barest of margins at half-time.

The lead constantly changed hands as the Hawks were up 30-29 with 15 minutes remaining but were

Yackandandah mid-courter Bec O’Connell was awarded the best-on-court medal.

TDNA Grand Final Re-

sults:

A grade – Kiewa-Sandy Creek 41 def Yackandandah

37

B grade – Thurgoona 39 def Tallangatta 38

C grade – Kiewa-Sandy Creek 40 def Thurgoona 39

Under 17 – Barnawartha

41 def Chiltern 32

Under 15 – Mitta United 47 def Yackandandah 23

Under 13 – Yackandandah

34 def Tallangatta 20

HOT STREAK: Xavier Palamarczuk continued a hot run of form, crowned George King Memorial tournament winner with a 3&1 victory over Dylan Pool at the weekend.

Cricket on the horizon

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE final sirens have all but sounded on the winter football season, which means people across the region are digging out their whites for the 2023/24 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season. The A grade season is set to commence on Saturday, October 7, with the draws for the remaining senior

and junior grades still being finalised.

WDCA president Justin Kelly said final preparations were being made for fixtures and grounds.

“The A grade draw’s been done, we’re just waiting to see the availability of the Rovers ground and the Norm Minns Oval because they’ve got to top dress those two ovals, which they should be doing this week,” he said.

“You need to give it a month’s rest, so we can play on them from October 21, and that affects the B grade draw as well, so we’ve got to get all that in place.

“Beechworth’s entered a second side - we had an application from Stanley Cricket Club to re-join, but it was a bit late.

“So they got together with Beechworth and they’re putting another team in -

they’re going to have one team in each (B grade and C grade).”

The main challenge in preparing for the 2023/24 season has been getting all players and clubs on board with the new PlayHQ system, which will take the place of the longstanding MyCricket format going forward.

During the months since the grand finals, clubs have been attending

seminars, online tutorials and workshops to properly establish their organisation on the system, which is now mandatory for all cricket competitions across Australia.

Kelly said there had been some headaches in transitioning to the new format, but everything should be in place for the start of the season in October.

“Umpires and officials have got a completely

different website which makes it a lot harder because previously it was all incorporated into MyCricket,” he said.

“I haven’t had a lot of bad feedback from the clubs, I don’t know how their registration process is going.

“I’m sure it’ll be a mad rush on Thursday night before the first game, chasing blokes up on Friday.”

SUMMER OF CRICKET: Cam Fendyk was a strong performer for Beechworth Wanderers’ A grade side last season.

PHOTO: Janet Watt