SOPHIE Price has been re-elected as Indigo Shire mayor unopposed at a statutory meeting of the new-look council on Tuesday night.
Nominated by councillor Diane Shepheard, Cr Price was unanimously voted in to continue as mayor after previously having spent the past two years in the top job.
New councillor Jane Dowsley also received an unopposed vote for deputy mayor after being nominated by councillor Greg Bourke.
Cr Price said she looked forward to working collaboratively with the new team and is committed to showing strong leadership and bringing issues raised by the community into the chamber.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
“I believe the community has got it right and there is a clear mandate for change,” she said.
“I think we’re all reflecting on the election that’s taken place, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the councillors that have been elected.
“We’ve got a diverse range of
views, and we’re well spread out across the shire.
STARS ALIGNED
Beechworth Inc committee volunteers Mark Primerano, Beechworth Inc. president Katrina Witherow and secretary Sue Humphris are ready to light up Beechworth next Friday with a Christmas lights display at the Town Hall Gardens’ hero trees. Story page 3.
“We now have the task of balancing all the needs of the community in an inclusive and respectful way.
“I wasn’t to be an inclusive mayor, available to the community and I would really welcome your support.”
While accepting her nomination for deputy mayor for a one-year term, Cr Dowsley said with four new councillors elected, it was clear the community was calling for change.
“By electing a new councillor as
deputy mayor, we are demonstrating we have heard and respect this message,” she said.
“As deputy mayor I will be proactive and collaborative, I believe in allowing our communities to thrive.
“With Sophie as mayor, this partnership of experience and fresh perspectives will allow us to question the status quo, drive innovation and create new opportunities for a stronger and more connected Indigo Shire.”
■ Continued page 2
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
LEADING THE WAY: Indigo Shire Council mayor Sophie Price and deputy mayor Jane Dowsley were chosen to lead council after a statutory meeting Tuesday night.
Price re-elected as mayor
■ From front page
Cr Price will lead for the next two years after Cr Shepheard put forward the motion for a two-year term, opposed to one-year.
“I think with four new councillors it’s an opportunity for us to work together under one leadership and one guidance,” Cr Shepheard said.
“I’m confident a two-year term will mean that we will have leadership for the next two years while we’re deciding and working out where the next leadership base will be.”
Cr Horne opposed the motion o a two-year term, believing a one-year term would be more suitable..
“I believe our community has given us a very string motion to look for change,” Cr Horne said.
Councillor John Harvey joined Cr Horne’s opposed vote, while councillors Shepheard, Dowsley, Landells, Bourke and Price voted in favour of the two-year mayoral stint.
There will be an ordinary council meeting held on December 10 which is slated to be the last for 2024.
Local secondary college growing in enrolments
By CORAL COOKSLEY
WHILE Year 12 Beechworth
Secondary College (BSC) students finished VCE exams this week and celebrated at a valedictory dinner held last night, the school’s principal is excited with the school’s ongoing growth and developments.
The college is expecting a boost to enrolments above the 70 mark for next year’s year seven intake – an increase from 62 this year contributing to a total cohort of around 290 students.
With one year seven class at the end of COVID, classes have tripled since then with an extra class scheduled for next year.
Principal Patricia Broom said the school’s aim is to reach 350 students in approximately two years’ time.
“New facilities and an amazing dynamic staff including new teachers are contributing to this growth with several new teachers coming on board next year too,” she said.
“Teachers are choosing to come to the town as they have a strong interest in the college and are excited to be part of the
school’s growth.”
The school is bucking a nationwide downward trend in mathematics with concerning statistics in a report released by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) last month.
Although a small school, Ms Broom said maths is strong with 80 per cent of year 12 students undertaking the subject, including specialist maths.
“Students are not required to study maths in 11 or 12 and we not only have that happening, but they are undertaking high levels of maths,” she said.
“The BSC maths team is very proud of the interest and confidence they generate to support students to maintain participation in STEM subjects, such as the maths subjects.
“Year 11 and 12 mathematics subjects this year indicated BSC students valued the subject and are achieving successful outcomes in both the VCE and VCE with a vocation major (VCE/VM).”
The school with a variety of offerings includes university pathways and language programs as well as receiving a recent $12,000 grant to upgrade STEM (science technology, engineer-
ing and maths) equipment.
The college can also boast a 100 per cent completion rate for both the VCE and the VCE with a vocation major.
With school-based apprenticeships for the VCE/VM, students combine school with TAFE studies while undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship gaining skills alongside their VCE with the vocational major.
The college also supports the local Rotary Club with the Rotary International Exchange program where students periodically attend the school from overseas and vice-versa.
The principal said an Italian student recently returned to Florence after a short threemonth exchange while BSC student Ted Ritchie is now in the Italian city undertaking an exchange until January next year.
“We had a French exchange student from the city of Lille this year too with BSC students also on exchange in France and Brazil last year,” Ms Broom said.
The principal said the college is keen to offer places to students in years 10 ,11 or 12 next year for exchange opportunities.
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
YEAR
RUTHERGLEN restaurant KIN at All Saints Estate has received a coveted chef’s hat in The Age Good Food Guide 2025 awards announced this week, for the second year in a row.
Described as “princely prixfixe dining with plenty of nowfactor” by the guide, All Saints Estate says the award highlights KIN’s commitment to regional produce, quality and ex-
ceptional dining experiences.
It says the second chef’s hat not only honours the creative passion of the kitchen team, led by executive chef Jack Cassidy, but also elevates KIN’s reputation as a destination dining venue in North East Victoria.
“Nick, Angela and I, are incredibly proud to receive a Good Food Guide hat for the second
year in a row for KIN,” said All Saints Estate director, Eliza Brown.
“This recognition validates our team’s dedication to crafting unique and thoughtful dishes that reflect both the seasons and our connection to the region.
“We look forward to continuing to share our journey with our guests.”
Since opening, KIN has been
renowned for its evolving menu that speaks to the heart of regional ingredients, presented in a relaxed dining atmosphere.
“This award would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our loyal customers and the tireless efforts of our team, whose hard work, passion and creativity continue to bring KIN’s vision to life,” said Ms Brown.
STATE RECOGNITION: The second Good Food Guide chef’s hat honours the creative passion of the kitchen team, led by executive chef Jack Cassidy.
PHOTO: Kate Shanasy
BOOST: Beechworth Secondary College expects good enrolments for next year, bucks downward maths trends and offers a variety of programs for students.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
Yackandandah CFA brigade counting costs from weekend break-in, theft
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POLICE are investigating a “despicable” burglary of a Yackandandah CFA brigade station over the weekend.
The break-in occurred overnight last Friday, November 15.
A CFA member went to the Flaggy Creek station on Saturday morning to undertake maintenance works and noticed the lock was missing from the front door and the locking mechanism was damaged.
She called captain Chris Wingard, who arrived and
went into the station to see the cabinets on the fire truck were left wide open.
After inspecting the cabinets, Mr Wingard noticed equipment stolen included a chainsaw, bolt cutters, straps, a jerry can of fuel, oil and an axe.
Mr Wingard said the brigade was deeply saddened to find out the station had been broken into for the second time in four months.
“This break-in not only diminishes our capacity to respond to emergencies but also comes at a critical time as we approach fire season,”
he said.
“The individuals responsible for this despicable act have shown a complete dis-
regard for our community’s well-being.
“It’s truly a low act to hamper our ability to serve and
protect our community during such a crucial period.”
The first break-in four months ago saw limited damage with bolt cutters and straps the only items stolen.
The latest break-in saw extensive damage to the locking mechanism to the station as the suspected perpetrators attempted to gain entry.
Mr Wingard said the station had been repaired during the week as the brigade relocated the fire truck and other equipment out of the station while it was unsecured.
He said more items may
have also been taken, with insurance costs adding up to around $2500.
“We’re going to be waiting a while for the insurance claim to go through and then we’ll put orders in for new equipment,” he said.
“None of our members have things like bolt cutters so we’ll be without a few things for a little while, it’s frustrating.”
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the break-in and anyone with information is being urged to contact Victoria Police or Crime Stoppers.
Beechworth lighting spectacular for Christmas
By CORAL COOKSLEY
BEECHWORTH is set to sparkle brighter than ever this Christmas with lights switched on next Friday for a colourful showcase.
The Beechworth Inc initiative ‘Let there be light’ supported by a Community Bank Beechworth and District grant means two added spectacles with hero trees with a first-time conic heritage building illuminated extends last year’s festive show.
The Beechworth community is invited to the Benev at 9 Warner Road to see the original town Christmas tree lit up for the first time for many years at 8pm while at that moment all lights around town will light up too.
Excited Beechworth Inc. volunteer Sue Humphris coordinating the project with a dedicated small committee, said the massive tree seen from various vantage points around the town had been a symbol of community unity at Christmas.
The Benev will also light up across the front of the building.
“We’re having a community style picnic there for the public to enjoy from 7.30pm to see the tree light up at 8pm with everyone welcome,”
Ms Humphris said.
“People will need to bring rugs or chairs and no alcohol is permitted at the event.”
“We also have the hero tree in the Town Hall Gardens, one in the Anglican Christ Church grounds and have the Beechworth Old Gaol with coloured spotlights along its wall.
“With its impressive building, the Old Gaol
will be a dazzling light spectacle.”
Ms Humphris said the lights have lifted the town’s spirit bringing the community together with people last year excited with Christmas lights back again.
“If we can keep building on this project year in and year out Beechworth will be a town where people will want to come at Christmas to see the lights,” she said.
Ms Humphris said an added bonus would be drawing then to
town to Christmas shop too boosting the local economy.
“The Christmas decorations will be an everevolving art installation that continuously gives back to the community,” she said.
A proud Beechworth Inc. president Katrina Witherow said the bunch of fantastic, enthusiastic committee volunteers had already undertaken good things for the town.
“It’s an honour to be part of this small but vibrant, little volunteer group and we’re all very excited,” she said.
Beechworth electrician Primma Electrical’s Mark Primerano installing the lights said the project is great for the town’s Christmas spirit and a great attraction for locals, kids and visitors.
Next year work will be undertaken to have lights working all year round at the Old Beechworth Gaol along the wall for other events such as Daffodil Day with yellow, pink for breast cancer and blue for MND. Beechworth Inc. was previously known as the Beechworth Chamber of Commerce.
EXCITED: Primma Electrical’s Mark Primerano with Beechworth Inc. president Katrina Witherow and secretary Sue Humphris set to decorate Beechworth Town Hall. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
COUNTING THE COSTS: Yackandandah CFA brigade’s Flaggy Creek station was broken into last weekend.
Immersing souls in Indigo
YASMIN Chambers was born in Sandringham, grew up in Box Hill and around the eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
She moved to Chiltern in 2022.
What do you do workwise?
I help people to reconnect with their soul path and intuition, through soul guidance readings, spiritual healings, meditation circles and intuitive art workshops.
I am also an emerging artist.
I work/play with a few different mediums, mainly pastel and acrylic.
I have a room called the Soulful Corner at Lisa Bishop’s store in Chiltern, as well as online sessions via my website.
What led you to your role/career?
After running my own dance studio for several years, I felt guided to try Reiki energy healing.
It was a change of pace that my soul needed.
A few years later I completed my Reiki Masters which eventually
CREATIVE: Chiltern’s Yasmin’s soul purpose is helping others to help themselves especially through meditation and intuitive arts.
PHOTO: Lisa Bishop
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
Sovereignty and free speech.
In particular, when people are shut down for expressing a truth, be it their own or a truth for a greater good.
led me to facilitating meditation groups, moon ceremonies and spiritual development workshops, along with psychic readings and healings.
That was over 20 years ago now.
What do you love about your work?
I absolutely love feeling and seeing the light in people transform and glow after they have registered an awareness or shift in perspective within themselves, be that consciously or unconsciously.
It’s like someone’s unique bright beautiful light switches on and their soul clicks online.
Helping others to help themselves especially through meditation and intuitive arts is my soul purpose.
What do you do in the community?
I am involved with the Chiltern Art Collective, helping locally with marketing and promotion for our Art Exhibitions at the Old Chiltern Court House in Main St.
Helping the art collective is a great way to support the many wonderful talented and amazing artists in Chiltern.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
Not having been in the Indigo Shire very long, I haven’t come across any issue I’m passionate about, yet.
What would you do to solve change or improve that situation?
At this stage I’m still observing.
As a collective, we can handle the truth.
It’s time to evolve.
If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?
I’m not prone to putting people on pedestals, so I can’t think of anybody I’d like to meet.
However, I would certainly like my dad, Ray, to visit Indigo Shire. He crossed over in 1997.
He loved the Murray River system.
It would be great to camp with him on the Murray one more time.
I’d also love to sit on Mount Pilot with him connecting to the ancestors of the land while contemplating life.
What book are you reading?
I have several books on my bedside table at the moment.
The one I read from last was ‘The Life You Were Born to Live’ by Dan Millman.
Cornishtown Hall celebrates 150 years
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A STRONG crowd comprising former students, committee members and locals celebrated the historic Cornish Town Hall’s 150-year anniversary with a special event held earlier this month.
Committee president Robin Piggot said a wonderful group of people had worked hard over many years for the hall to ensure its existence for future generations.
Mr Piggot said over the last two decades committees had applied for - and received - many grants for various renovations to retain the hall’s viability as a venue for social events such as birthday celebrations, weddings, anniversaries and the annual blues night held in February.
MEMORIES: Oldest member of the former Cornishtown school 98-year-old Grant Gillman with Mary Terrill enjoyed Cornishtown Hall’s recent 150-year anniversary celebration.
Among improvements had been the reroofing of the hall nine years ago which included the help of many volunteers led by John Fuge and Bill Slattery. The committee president said 98-year-old Grant Gill-
man, who was at the celebration, is the oldest former student of the local school before it became a hall.
Local identity Mary Fuge’s late husband Rex and an historian had been the president before Mr Piggot took
up the position and featured in the 125th documentary produced by Bill Steele running in the hall on the day.
Mr Piggot thanked everyone who had contributed in some way, donated and have enjoyed times at the hall.
Fifth generation local Paul Shelley said his father had been on a school committee and had attended the school before it closed in 1957 when it then transitioned into the hall.
Mr Shelley said the school
had an intriguing history as well as the school starting 25 years before the building was erected.
“It is pleasing to see disparate groups of different time frames working together invigorating the hall and its committee,” he said.
“It’s a real story about sense of community with the fact that the hall could celebrate 150 years.”
Mr Shelly said noted people had attended the school while the hall retained its importance to the community.
Mr Shelly’s 89-year-old mother Val Shelley with 92-year-old Maree Terrill cut the celebration cake.
A 150th commemorative Shiraz made by one of Rutherglen’s winemakers had been produced for the special occasion too.
CELEBRATED: Local historian Bill Steele (back left), Tony Gillman, Perce Mellville, Joan McKinnon (front left), Rhona Ward and Grant Gillman (seated).
Yasmin Chambers
TRY celebrates a decade of community-led renewable energy success
By CORAL COOKSLEY
TOTALLY Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) celebrated a decade of achievements with 160 people drawn to the anniversary celebration on Saturday.
Held at the Yackandandah Public Hall, the event honoured the community’s journey towards 100 per cent renewable energy and reflected on the region’s progress in building a local, resilient, sustainable energy future.
Themed “Head, Hands and Heart,” the event brought together thought leaders, musicians, and community members for an evening of reflection and inspiration.
Guest speaker - Green Institute’s Executive Director Tim Hollo advocated the need for democratisation and decentralistion to progress the energy sector.
Mr Hollo – a policy analyst experienced in engaging communities and community change with energy transition - said centralised systems of political power are failing not just in delivering climate action.
Mr Hollo said his interest in climate change led to him to exploring energy systems.
He said democratisation and decentralisation has always been one of the key parts of the energy transition story.
“Fossil fuels and big coal fired power stations lend themselves to big centralised power systems with big centralised systems of democratic power as well as political power,” he said.
Mr Hollo said Yackandandah’s energy transition to renewables led by a grass roots community gets on with it.
“There is an amazing wave still building where people are realising we can’t wait for failing governments and corporations to do this,” he said,
“TRY demonstrates this well connecting with other local community groups within the town bringing them together and rebuilding community at the same time – democracy at the grass roots.”
CELEBRATED: TRY president Matt CharlesJones (left), Dr Juliette Milbank, vicepresident Mark Parnell with guest speaker Tim Hollo at Saturday’s event. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
RIGHT: CONGRATULATED: Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines congratulated TRY on its decade of achievements on Saturday night.
TRY president and a founder, Matt Charles-Jones, said breadth and depth of partnerships, unanticipated changes such as the cemetery switching to electric lawnmowers, building a solar panel system to charge equipment, and a sense of hope are three highlights over the past decade.
“The sense of hope engendered is to do something practical about invigorating a small community, but also responding positively to climate change,” he said.
“Doing something practical, real and hands on is very powerful.”
Mr Charles-Jones said projects undertaken brought extra benefits to the community from transitioning to a cleaner source of energy with people saving money as well as a boost to the local economy by employing local people as well as people have more money in their
Founders
pockets to spend.
TRY’s Dr Juliette Milbank said TRY’s collective effort as a community group with its achievements working collaboratively with local government, businesses, and its community partnerships has led to amazing outcomes.
Wangaratta-based Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines said Yackandandah is a role model for the entire nation with volunteers generously sharing information with other communities.
“I’m proud to be with the founders of Totally Renewable Yackandandah and everyday people with a big ambition and to see that continue after a decade and celebrate its achievements,” she said.
Victorian government Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Action Sheena Watt MLC said Yackandandah stood out for taking action
for renewable energies working together with community, and bringing community along with them.
“I’m delighted to be here celebrating 10 years of enormous effort and 10 years of renewable powered communities,” she said.
Among TRY projects includes a community battery at the disused town sawmill, and a second battery set for construction at the Yackandandah Sports Park.
TRY has also pioneered a community virtual power plant with 251 participants, rolled out emergency preparedness projects to strengthen energy resilience, and installed an electric vehicle (EV) charger to support the transition to cleaner transport.
The group has focused on building energy resilience, strengthening the local economy and reducing carbon emissions.
Commemoration in Stanley this Sunday
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A COMMEMORATION to mark the 200th anniversary of the Hume and Hovell expedition passing through the region will be held this Sunday, November 24.
The bicentenary with a special event starting at the Hume and Hovell Centenary cairn on the StanleyMyrtleford Road kicks off at 10am.
The monument is around three kilometres from the village centre on the right-hand side heading to Myrtleford.
Organised by Friends of the Stanley Athenaeum, member Chris Dormer said eventgoers will then visit the Athenaeum following the commemoration to view the ‘They Passed This Way’ exhibition.
Ms Dormer said the small exhibition has been four months in the making.
Learn how to protect local pollinators
By CHLOE JAENICKE
THE Ovens Landcare Network’s first ‘Sunday Session’ will focus on Protecting Our Pollinators.
At the Beechworth Memorial Hall event, Agriculture Victoria apiary officer, Karla Williams will share a presentation on the threats towards pollinators and what we can do in our own patch.
One of the key threats that Ms Williams will share is the detection of the most serious pest affecting honeybees worldwide, Varroa Mite (Varroa destructor), which was detected in Victoria in August of this year.
Ovens Landcare support officer, Sally Martin, said she hopes the information session can help educate people more about what to do if they spot Varroa Mite in their area and can feel empowered with this knowledge.
“I want people to walk away not feeling overwhelmed when they hear what Varroa Mite is so they can keep an eye out on their own patch,” she said.
“If it does come to our area, they know what to expect and can keep those points of contact open with Agriculture Victoria for the future as well.”
Ms Martin said it’s important to have Ms Williams speak at the information session as she is an apiary officer currently based in Wodonga.
“Agriculture Victoria and apiary officers are the only ones with powers to act on Varroa Mite and Ms Williams is the local contact,” she said.
Previously, Ms Williams was also the only bee biosecurity officer in Tasmania with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania and coordinated the Tasmanian section of the National Bee Pest surveillance program.
Ms Williams will also be joined by local beekeeper Neil Padbury, who will share his perspectives on the topic and professor Sasha Mikheyev from Australian National University ‘s Bee Lab.
The exhibition developed by the friends group commemorates the bicentenary of the Hume and Hovell expedition in 1824 when Hamilton Hume and William Hovell and their party trekked south from Appin to Lake George in New South Wales.
They continued into Victoria, keeping west of the Great Dividing Range ending up at Corio Bay on the Victorian coast where present day Geelong is situated.
In late November crossing what is now the Murray River, they passed through mountain country in the area close to what is also now named Stanley.
“Both men kept diaries and recorded their journey in some detail but there is some conjecture about exactly which route they travelled,” Ms Dormer said.
The journey through this area is generally described as having passed through Back Creek, Stanley and down to the Murmungee where the sites were marked with cairns erected in 1924 to commemorate the centenary of Hume and Hovell expedition passing this way.
“The explorers had diaries about their expedition but there is only one biography for Hume and not one for Hovell with the significance of their discoveries largely unrecognised,” Ms Dormer said.
Cost for the event is a $5 donation and includes morning tea at the Athenaeum.
Proceeds will help to fund the upkeep of the Athenaeum and run exhibitions.
For enquiries contact Chris by email at stanleyathenaeum@gmail. com or mobile 0408 606 922.
SITE MARKED: A cairn erected in 1924 to commemorate the centenary of Hume and Hovell expedition passing through the region.
Mr Mikheyev will speak about the Australian Bee Observation Network (ABON) and citizen science where the local community can be come involved alongside one of his students from Canberra.
This is the first Sunday Session Ovens Landcare will be holding, thanks to the Victoria Landcare Grant, and Ms Martin said they hope to hold one every couple of months over the next year.
The event will take place on Sunday, December 1 from 10am to 2pm, with morning tea and lunch provided.
To book your tickets, visit https://events.humanitix.com/ protecting-our-pollinators and for more information on the event, contact ovenslandcareincprojects@ gmail.com.
INSPIRATIONAL:
Denis Ginnivan (left) and Matt Charles-Jones (right), with Australian music legend Shane Howard (middle) after the event. PHOTO: Juliette Milbank
PHOTO: Juliette Milbank
Don’t forget regions with housing fund: Haines
INDI MP Helen Haines
has introduced a bill to parliament that’s core goal is to secure a fair slice of funding for regional Australia.
A key request is for Housing Australia to distribute at least 30 per cent of its funds each year to projects in regional, rural and remote areas.
A legislated bill would mean that out of the Federal Government’s $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund, regional areas would receive a guaranteed $3 billion.
Dr Haines also confirmed the government overall has committed more than $30b in new housing.
“I’m worried that both major parties are focused
too much on the cities when it comes to solving the housing crisis, and that the regions are at risk of being left behind,” Dr Haines said.
“That’s why as an Independent, I’m introducing a bill to fix it.
“I’ve been a consistent advocate for government action that reflects the reality in regional, rural and remote Australia.
“The sad reality is that for an entire generation of Australians, home ownership – or even a secure rental –feels out of reach and unattainable, and this is keenly felt in regional areas.”
Dr Haines said rural, regional and remote communities need support to build
the infrastructure that will unlock new housing and that regional councils could no longer carry the burden of funding on their own.
Her Regional Housing Bill would also legislate that an objective of Housing Australia and the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) is to address the housing needs of people in regional, rural and remote Australia, putting a requirement on government to act.
It would also provide absolute certainty that local governments and water corporations are eligible for HAFF for critical enabling infrastructure and should be supported by Housing Australia
“Regional Australia ex-
periences the housing crisis differently to the cities, but we’re competing for the same pool of funding,” she said.
“Despite more than $30b in new housing commitments from this government, there are no initiatives specifically focused on increasing the supply of new homes in the regions.
“We need to amend key housing legislation to ensure local government and water corporations can tap into funding to deliver the pipes, paths and poles that unlock new housing developments.
“This bill will equip regional Australia to tackle the housing crisis head on
– to build the homes that will support our regions for years and decades to come.”
The National Regional Housing Summit 2024 highlighted the constraints on local governments and small communities to deliver the support infrastructure needed to meeting housing needs in regional areas.
Key recommendations from the summit, facilitated by the Regional Australia Institute include a call for policy insights to be laser focused on delivering new homes in regional Australia.
The Regional Australia Institute has been pushing for the policy that will develop and deepen regional rental markets and rental hous-
Scholarship helps students settle into university life
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A $2000 scholarship is up for grabs to help a local Year 12 graduate settle into first year university studies next year.
Beechworth Rotary Club awards the annual scholarship in memory of the late Jack Tully – a local businessman and long-standing Rotarian who left a small legacy to the club to help university students.
For more than a decade graduates living within a 20-kilometre radius of the Beechworth Post Of-
fice attending surrounding high schools have been scholarship recipients.
Long-time Beechworth Rotarian John Costello said the scholarship gives students a head start at university.
This year’s recipient Will UsherClarke is on a journey to become a doctor.
He finished his first year in the Bachelor of Science at Monash University.
Will said the scholarship had been a great help when he first shifted to Melbourne this year
helping to pay for things needed for university including textbooks and accommodation.
“I didn’t have a have a lot when I first moved and it really helped me to settle in,” he said.
Will said his first degree will take three years with another four years to study medicine plus a hospital internship to follow after completion of his university studies.
“I’ve always had an interest in, and a passion for medicine, and I’m planning to work regionally or come back as it’s important to
ing, including social and affordable housing; ensuring a pipeline of developmentready land; and a greater mix of housing in regions, including medium density dwellings.
Liz Ritchie, chief executive officer, Regional Australia Institute, said the regions are experiencing a surge in population and will lead the nation’s net zero transformation, but without adequate foundations – like access to housing – these opportunities will be lost.
“Dedicated and targeted funding must be established for rural and regional Australia and a mandate to report on progress is well overdue,” Ms Ritchie said.
$10m
CFA: Tilley
MEMBER for Benambra Bill Tilley says Labor’s increased fire service property levy will strip $2.7 million from Indigo ratepayers with little or no return to CFA firefighters. In the next 12 months ratepayers in Wodonga ($5.5m), Towong ($1.8M) and Indigo ($2.7m) will fork out an extra 23 per cent on the tax that is supposed to fund fire services.
Farmers are hit hardest by the latest tax hike – their levy close to double the previous year and five times what multinational renewable energy companies pay on nearby land.
The data was released by Treasurer Tim Pallas in response to Mr Tilley’s Question on Notice in early September.
Mr Pallas claimed the revenue was going to Victorian firefighting but a review of the State Budget shows the bulk of the money goes to paid firefighters in Melbourne.
Mr Tilley said there needed to be greater parity in the funding.
“Farmers, who form a large part of our CFA brigades, should be outraged,” he said.
“Their rate has almost doubled, and yet renewable energy companies get a discount because of a what the government describes as “public benefit”.
“I would have thought being a volunteer firefighter might be of some public benefit too.
“But instead, they are fighting fires with old equipment and from sheds that are long past their use by date.”
get doctors here,” the Beechworthian said.
“There’s a shortage of doctors regionally with more doctors needed in specific fields.”
This year’s scholarship applications close on Thursday, December 12.
The club encourages Year 12 students to explore the scholarship opportunity as soon as possible.
For scholarship and application information visit the Beechworth Rotary Club website at https:// portal.clubrunner.ca/9584.
This year’s state budget increased CFA funding by about three per cent, whilst the heavily unionised Fire Rescue Victoria budget received a $200m, about 20 per cent, boost.
Mr Tilley said compounding the issue was the ageing fleet of firefighting equipment.
“More than 75 per cent of the CFA fleet is more than 10 years old, and about a third more than 20 years old,” he said.
“CFA brigades have had three years of non-delivery, pictures of Labor MPs standing in front of tankers from long past budgets is an insult.
“This money should be buying new tankers and upgrading fire sheds rather than paying the overtime bill for city firefighters.”
HELPING HANDS: Beechworth Rotarians John Strang (left) and Simon Kelly early this year congratulated Will Usher-Clarke (middle) on receiving the Jack Tully Scholarship. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
Celebrating 40 years of NESAY
By JORDAN DUURSMA
LOCAL youth and family community agency, North East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY), celebrated 40 years of operation at their AGM on Friday morning.
The theme of the event was “Dare to dream - Dare to create – reach out and touch what was once in your imagination”.
NESAY president Alison Maclean said the theme was chosen as it reflects the dedication the NESAY team holds for the work they do.
“We are privileged to accompany young people on their path to adulthood and to support parents in their journey of parenthood,” she said.
“We recognise their potential, talents, and abilities, and see our role as providing the informa-
tion and resources to help nurture and develop these qualities.”
The AGM and 40th anniversary reflected on and celebrated the organisation’s work in supporting vulnerable people in the community.
Former NESAY employee
(1989), Kerry Burns, gave a presentation of the history of NESAY at the AGM.
Kerry spoke to the enshrined values and beliefs of NESAY that have underpinned the role NESAY have played in the local community over the past 40 years.
NESAY’s mission is to support young people and their families in the community to achieve their goals and aspirations.
Their team works towards this through providing a range of services across North East Victoria that enables young people to achieve safe housing, develop their independent living skills, foster and nurture family relationships and sustain education and employment.
Interim chief executive officer Claire Anderson said she was filled with pride reflecting on what the NESAY team has achieved.
“These accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without our committed Board of Governance, dedicated TAC L2P mentor volunteers, passionate Youth Advisory Committee, and the hardworking NESAY team,” she said.
Call for participants in North East Water’s Deliberative Forum
NORTH East Water (NEW) is inviting customers to participate in its next round of community engagement as it develops its next Price Submission, which sets out the proposed fees and charges customers will pay from July 1, 2026.
NEW managing director Jo Murdoch said North East Water had already engaged customers through focus groups, workshops, surveys, pop-up kiosks, webinars, and a bill simulator.
“The next phase, starting in early 2025, is a crucial part of our engagement – a deliberative forum that will run over five sessions from late-January to mid-March,” Ms Murdoch said.
“The forums will bring together a diverse group of customers who will learn about key issues, share ideas, and provide recommendations on North East Water’s future direction.
“With our communities growing and our climate changing, we want to hear from people on how we can plan together to deliver safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable services for future generations.”
NEW is seeking residential and business customers from across its service region to participate in the deliberative forum.
“You don’t need special skills or expertise to join, just an interest in helping to shape our proposed future prices and services,” Ms Murdoch added.
“The forum will be asked to consider feedback from earlier customer and community engagement, weigh up different services, infrastructure investments and trade-offs, and provide recommendations for the good of the entire community.
“Around 45 people will be independently selected to take part in the forum that will represent a cross-section of customers from our region.’
People that are selected to take part will receive an honorarium of $170 per full-day session and $85 for the orientation session (total of $765), payable in mid-March 2025.
Those interested in participating can register their interest at www.newater. com.au/ps.
Registrations close at 5pm Friday, December 13, 2024.
The following candidates were elected to Indigo Shire Council at the general election held in October 2024:
PRICE, Sophie (1st elected)
DOWSLEY, Jane (2nd elected)
HARVEY, John (3rd elected)
LANDELLS, Scott (4th elected)
HORNE, Roberta (5th elected)
BOURKE, Greg (6th elected)
SHEPHEARD, Diane (7th elected)
Indigo Shire Council election Declaration of results Further details about the
Derek Duncan Election Manager
8 November 2024
TEAM EFFORT: NESAY team members Shannon Hawkins, Taylah Johnstone, Casey Scobie, Kirsty Hawkins, Katie Scott and Sophie Cleal were part of the celebrations on Friday morning.
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS: Interim CEO Claire Anderson, keynote speaker and previous employee of NESAY Kerry Burns, Youth Advisory Committee member Isabelle Beecroft, previous CEO Leah Waring and NESAY president Alison Maclean gathered to reflect on and celebrate the work NESAY has done in the community. PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma
True crime event raised nearly $10,000 for charity
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation North East branch’s charity event
‘Inside Story’ drew a crowd of 225 true crime aficionados, raising nearly $10,000 to go towards hospitals in the region.
Keynote speaker and retired detective senior sergeant, Jeff Maher, shared the inside story on three engaging and interesting cases.
Acting senior sergeant and president of the North East Blue Ribbon Foundation committee Travis Carroll said it was great to see the room at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway “chock-a-block”.
“Our speaker was one of Victoria’s most experienced detectives who has solved over 200 murders and was an informant in the investigation of serial killer Peter Dupas,” he said.
“It was a fantastic night and the funds raised will make a significant difference in the community.
“Every cent will go towards local hospitals, small hospitals and medial centres always struggle for funding and we would like to support them as much as we can.”
Entries open for Rutherglen Tastes of Art prize
“My experience is that Wangaratta community is very good at supporting community charities and that was testament to our local businesses getting behind the event,” Mr Carroll said.
“We’re extremely grateful for the support from our local businesses, we’re also really pleased buy how well the event was supported by the community.
“A lot of hard work was put in by our volunteers in the North East branch to make the night the success it was.
“We are always looking for people to volunteer, because many hands make light work.”
The branch has funded seven community hospital projects dedicated to members who have died in the line of duty and the current committee members are committed to giving back to local community in honour of the fallen members.
For more information or to contact the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation North East branch, visit https://remember.org.au/ branches/north-east/.
With almost $9000 worth of prizes donated, the branch volunteers were thankful for the support from local businesses and community members.
ARTS Rutherglen is inviting visual artists, photographers, sculptors and young people to get their entries in for the 2025 Tastes of Art Prize.
Now in its eighth year, the popular annual event will run from March 8 to 16 and offers $16,350 in prize money, with sections including painting, work on paper, photography, 3D and youth.
The art exhibition and sale is open for 10 days and runs during Rutherglen’s annual Tastes of Rutherglen Winemakers festival, which itself attracts up to 4000 people to the region.
Arts Rutherglen’s Irena Webster said entries are now open and will close on February 9.
“We are also very excited to announce Corowa Furnishings is generously offering free artwork delivery to our art show from two locations in Victoria - Somerton (in Melbourne) and Mildura,” she said.
“More information and details on how to enter are available by visiting our website.”
Winners of the 2025 Tastes of Art Prize will be announced at the opening gala night being held on Friday, March 7, and bookings for the opening can be made by visiting trybooking. com/CVKCD.
Find out more by visiting artsrutherglen.com.au/ tastesofartprize/.
BRANCH MEMBERS: Members of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation North East branch Wendy McCarthy, Mandy McClounan, Travis Carroll, John Peterson and Paula Adams were encouraged to see the community support the event.
WINNING TICKET: With 13 raffle prizes and 63 lucky door prizes on offer, Shane Robinson and Wayne Brookes were confident on their chances of purchasing a winning ticket. PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma
SHARING THE INSIDE STORY: Acting senior sergeant and president of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation North East branch Travis Carroll with keynote speaker and veteran member of the Victoria Police Jeff Maher at a fundraising true crime event on Friday evening.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 To be bold or intrepid, is to be what (6)
7 To be reluctant to give, is to do what (8)
8 Name the short, thick inner digits of the human hands (6)
9 What is a deep cleft in the ice of a glacier (8)
11 When one walks laboriously, one does what (7)
13 Which blue mineral is a gem of moderate value (7)
15 Name an earlier Australian painter and sculptor, George Washington ... (7)
17 To be the least rapid, is to be the what (7)
20 Which device controls the amount of fuel being fed to an engine (8)
23 What is a chest in which to stow things (6)
24 Which portable shade is used for protection from rain (8)
25 What is a young swan called (6)
DOWN
1 Which term describes an inheritor (4)
2 To be more courageous, is to be what (6)
3 What are bookmakers’ prices known as (4)
4 To discourage from acting, is to do what (5)
5 What are boxing matches split into (6)
6 To be imposing in appearance, is to be what (5)
9 Which devices are used for fastening objects together (6)
10 What is surreptitious procedure (7)
12 Name an agricultural implement for mowing grass, etc (6)
14 To rouse from sleep, is to do what (6)
E-QUATIONS
16 Who is the head male servant of a household (6)
18 To be extremely foolish, is to be what (coll) (5)
19 To walk pompously, is to walk how (5)
21 Name a red variety of corundum, highly prized as a gem (4)
22 To which plant group does the fleur-de-lis belong (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 HACHURE
(a) A chopping block (b) A hill-shading line on a map (c) An American tree allied to the elm
2 IATRICAL
(a) Related to medicine or physicians (b) Satirical in verse (c) Of Spain and Portugal
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. Letters
CLUES:
Cotton twill fabric (5)
Fuel-carrying transports (7)
Indian stringed instrument (5)
Prefix: grandfather’s father (5)
Quote: “to ... is human” (3)
Sleeveless garment (4,3)
Soiled wool piece (3)
Category (5)
US: auto fuel (3)
Witty remark (3)
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
Booking deadline: 2pm business day prior to print.
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email:
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Phone: (03) 5723 0100
Phone for quarterly booking deadline
Phone: (03) 5723 0100
Booking deadline: Second Friday of month
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
Booking deadline: 12 noon Monday prior to print.
> CAR ADVERTISERS
Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement
• Cash price of motor car
• If car is registered, registration number
• If unregistered, the engine number
> PHOTOGRAPHS
All photographs appearing in this issue that are taken by our photographers are available as reprints.
> FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS
All found advertisements are published free. for publication.
> PERSONAL ADVERTISERS
• All personal photos submitted for printing in this issue must be collected within the next 4 weeks.
• All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties, if under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.
• Birth notices require signatures
> ADDITIONS
• Bold heading
• A various selection of logos are available.
> INTERNET
In lodging an advertisement with us you agree that we may publish the advertisement on our website. The general terms and condition that apply to publication apply also to publication of material on our website.
Notice of Intention to
BLACK FRIDAY SALE
Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer
We W & J Lucas Pty Ltd
Of 121 Fanning Lane Wooragee Victoria 3747
Refer to Vic Roads Map 35 D6
Intend to make application to Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) for a Licence to Construct Works (Bore), and if successful:
- This is our notice for an application of a new Licence to Take and Use Groundwater and we intend to apply to transfer 94.0ML of licensed entitlement from an existing licensee/s on a temporary or permanent basis.
The application is for (1) one Bore to be constructed to a proposed depth of 13.6 metres. The water will be used for the purpose of: Irrigation.
Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the transfer of this Licence including any intended Groundwater use, is invited to make a formal submission setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification.
To make a submission please read the information available to download from Make a submission about a licence applicationGoulburn Murray Water (g-mwater.com.au) refer to the Groundwater section or contact GMW to arrange a copy to be posted to you. Submissions must be lodged using the GMW template available by either mail or email to, licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au or PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3616.
Board director opportunities at Beechworth Health Service
The Minister for Health, the Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP, is pleased to invite applications for part time board director positions at Beechworth Health Service. The positions start on 1 July 2025 and appointments are for up to three years.
These positions provide an exciting opportunity for Victorians to contribute to the health and wellbeing of our communities. Applicants are selected for their capabilities, including personal and professional experience, knowledge, and skills that contribute to the strategic leadership and oversight of health care for the Victorian community.
The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. This includes diverse leadership of the health system that represents the variety of backgrounds and cultures of Victorian communities to enable the vision of achieving the best health, wellbeing and safety for everyone.
To build an empowered and engaged leadership across the health system, our priority areas are people of all ages, First Nations people, people who live with a disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTIAQ+, the promotion of gender equality and upholding human rights.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate the capabilities identified in their applications.
Applications close at midnight Sunday 24 November 2024.
Further information about Victorian health service boards and how to apply can be found at https://www.health.vic.gov.au/board-applications
& CAMPERS
& CAMPERS
MAZDA 3, 2010, 2LT, 6SPD, 1 owner, always serviced by Mazda. Vin: JM0BL10F100153182, Rego to the 1/4/2025, excellent condition, $5250. Ph 0456 236 310.
3.5 TONNE, DIESEL MOTOR, TUCKAWAY TAILGATE VERY GOOD CONDITION, COMES WITH RWC Ph 0419 030 666 PRICE TO SELL AT $35,000
3.8 MTR Punt 15 HP outboard Jamaha 2 stroke boat, cover, Bimini, as new trailer and some accessories, $3,800. Ph 5721 7931.
2011 Avan Cruiseliner, great condition, it has h ot water system, 3 way fridge, microwave, gas cooktop, solar, plenty of boot storage, annex, electric jockey w heel, 6 months r ego left, $18,500. Phone 0409 700 956
CARAVAN 2010 WESTERN, 18FT,double bed, fridge, stove, HW, shower and toilet, air con, TV, awning. Vin: 6T9T21WA1A03ZA002, great condition, $20,000. Ph 0456 236 310.
Saturday, November 23
DRAG’D OUT BEECHWORTH:
An action-packed day of fabulous and fun activities on Saturday, November 23 from 11am to 1am on Sunday, November 24. Visit www. dragdoutbeechworth.com.au for the program.
Sunday, November 24
FRIENDS OF THE STANLEY MUSEUM:
10am. Bicentenary of Hume and Hovell at the Hume and Hovell Cairn and afterwards see ‘They Passed This Way’ exhibition at the Stanley Athenaeum. Morning tea served. $5 donation. Enquiries: Chris at stanleyathenaeum@gmail. com or 0408 606 922.
HISTORICAL GANG
PLATELAYERS COTTAGE
A Lions Club renovation project: Open House, 10am to 3pm. Official opening at 10.30am. Morning and afternoon tea provided. 1B Harper Avenue, Beechworth.
Friday, November 29
QUERCUS BEECHWORTH:
Beechworth Community Christmas market. 4pm to 7pm. Local artisans and makers including young entrepreneurs, bakers and growers. Community supporting community. Stock up for Christmas. Notfor-profit event. 26-30 Ford Street.
BEECHWORTH INC.
(previously known as Beechworth Chamber of Commerce): The community is invited to see the community Christmas tree at the Benev in Warner Road lit up to sparkle at 8pm for the first time in many years. Picnic style and alcohol-free event. Arrive from 7.30pm. Bring rugs/chairs.
Saturday, November 30
ARTS YACKANDANDAH:
Presenting the incredible Rebecca Barnard playing songs in a special tribute to the legendary Joni Mitchell at the Yack Public Hall. Doors open 7.30pm for an 8pm start. 36 High Street. Tickets: www.trybooking. com/CVMXX.
Sunday, December 1
YACKANDANDAH
COMMUNITY
CHRISTMAS FAIR:
9am to 1Pm. Run by the Yackandandah Women’s Shed. Bustling market with unique artisan crafts. Activities for all ages including fun-filled ones for kids. Music and roaming entertainment. Santa arrives at midday. There’s a raffle with exciting prizes donated by stall holders too.
Howard wins regional B grade handicap
By DYLAN POOL
THERE was another great field of 21 players for twilight on the back nine of Beechworth last Thursday.
The winner of the night with a fantastic score of 24 points (23+1) was Jason West.
Runner up who took home the Bridge Road Brewers voucher with 22 points (21+1) was Phil Pelgrim.
Ball winners were Dylan Pool 22 and Andy Croome 21.
Five other players were on 20 points, so they all missed out on a ball and get plus one for next week.
The Beechworth Bakery nearest the pin went to Darren McCormick on the 10th and Daniel Balzer took home the six pack for his nearest the pin on the 17th thanks to Alpine Indigo Accounting.
Brian Pritchard took home the cash for his nearest chip on the 14th.
Phil Pelgrim won the CC’s Quality Meats & Smokehouse voucher in the raffle.
Unfortunately due to the weather no golf was played at Beechworth on Sunday.
But four members did head down to Waldara to play in the North Eastern District Golf Association (NEDGA) championships. Due to the torrential rain and
weather conditions, the 27 hole event was reduced to 18 holes and hit off was delayed for one and a half hours.
It’s fair to say that during the round the weather didn’t improve. We did however have a couple of
READY TO PLAY: WDCA junior representative squads have been named for this weekend’s Shepparton Challenge.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Rep sides ready for Shepparton Challenge
THE junior representative cricket season is finally here, with the WDCA sending eight squads west to take part in the Shepparton Challenge this Sunday.
For the last two weekends, cricketers from all junior age groups have been working to earn a spot in the rep side.
The WDCA will field teams in all age groups from under 12 to under 16, with multiple teams in the under 12, under 13, and under 14 divisions.
The under 16, under 15, both under 14, and one of the under 13 sudes were announced last Thursday, while the remaining selections happened over
the weekend.
Originally scheduled to take place at Benalla’s Arundel Street grounds, torrential rain on Sunday forced trials to relocate to the undercover nets at Rutherglen.
Despite the change of venue, squads have been selected and will be well placed to take the win in multiple grades this weekend.
Matches against Cricket Shepparton will take place this Sunday, November 24, at grounds across Shepparton, Euroa, and Mooroopna.
For more information, check out the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association on Facebook.
members take home prizes.
Jacob Howard won the B grade handicap and Vaughan Saunders was runner up in the A Grade handicap and won a nearest the pin.
Reminder this coming Sunday is the second round of the club championships.
Arrive 11:30am for 12pm hit off Of course if you need to play earlier and can organise your own group, please just let Dylan know you are going to.
REGIONAL CHAMP: Jacob Howard (left) of the Beechworth Golf Club pictured at Waldara on Sunday after winning the B grade handicap at the North Eastern District Golf Association regional championships in trying conditions.
Local gymnasts champion region, state competitions
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
A YOUNG local gymnast was crowned state champion in a division for bars at the Gymnastics Victoria Junior Championships held at the Geelong arena last month.
Young champion Karima also joined fellow gymnasts in the level three division three team where they nailed overall first place as team champions with vault first place, bars second place, and first place for both and floor and beam.
Beechworth-based club Indigo Gymnastic goes from strength to strength with individual and team athlete success in competitions including recent regional championships held in Albury.
In the Gymnastics Victoria Junior Championships level five division three, young gymnast Abbie scored sixth place in vault, fifth place in floor and nabbed overall sixth position while in level five division two, gymnasts Sophie came fourth on floor with Madi second on beam and scored sixth place on both vault, bars, and floor taking out an overall sixth place.
In an earlier competition held at MLC-Melbourne in September in level eight Lexi came second on vault, bars and floor and third on
INDIGO GYMNASTIC GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM ATHLETE SUCCESS
beam clinching an overall second place.
In the same level Madi came fifth on vault, second on bars and floor, first on beam taking out overall first place while Joanna clinched first place on vault, fourth on bars, second on beam with an overall fourth place.
Sophie came fifth on bars and floor while Karima
landed fourth place on bars as well as floor while Abbie scored second place on bars.
The level three team took out first place in vault, third place on both on bars and beam and a first with floor scoring overall third place.
With the young gymnasts excelling at the August regional championships held in Albury too, Abbie
in the level three team was crowned regional champion with first place on vault as well as floor and took out fourth place in both bars and beam clinching overall first place.
Karima nabbed being a regional champ with first on bars, fifth place on both vault and beam, third on floor taking out
an overall fourth place. Madi scored overall second place achieving second place for vault, beam and floor with fourth place on bars while Sophie came first on floor and reined as regional champion also scoring fifth place on vault and beam and overall scored fifth place.
Joanna gained fifth place
on vault, third for bars, seventh for beams, fourth for floor scoring overall sixth place.
The team clinched second place overall.
The level three team crowned regional championships nailed first place for vault and beam while scoring second place for floor and third place for bars.
DREAM TEAM: Indigo Gymnastics gymnasts Karima (back, left), Isla, Sophie, Joanna, Aylah (front, left), Grace, Abbie, Madi and Lexi recently battled it out in Gymnastics Victoria Junior Championships held at Geelong, representing their shire with pride.
