BEECHWORTH’S Paul Fitzgerald captured photos around 10.30am on Wednesday of the first snowfall for this year’s winter season at Mount Stanley. Paul also captured the interest of many people and by late Wednesday evening attracted 2.6K likes from his social media post on the Beechworth community Facebook page with 229 shares and 103 comments while numbers are likely to still be climbing Mount Stanley around 19 kilometres from Beechworth and nine kilometres from the Stanley village is 1050 metres above sea level. BOM had forecasted snowfalls above 600 metres on the day lifting to 800 metres during the evening on Wednesday.
PHOTO: Paul Fitzgerald
Local ambos under strain
ONGOING critical challenges faced by the local regional health system saw the Chiltern ambulance called to Albury-Wodonga 462 times last year to cover local ambulances ramped up at hospital emergency departments.
The alarming figure was revealed from a recent question on notice to the Victorian Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas by Benambra MP Bill Tilley.
Figures also indicated Beechworth Ambulance was
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
sent to cover Border shortfalls on 175 occasions, Tallangatta 125 times and even Corryong, 122km away, was called in 14 times.
The latest data from the Victorian Agency for Health Information show Chiltern and Beechworth ambulances in Indigo Shire as well as Tallangatta and Corryong in
Towong Shire are among the worst in the state for emergency ambulance responses.
It also follows the state government’s latest budget decision to fund just nine of the 16 short stay beds at Albury that act as a circuit breaker to demand for emergency beds.
Mr Tilley said it showed how ramping at Albury Wodonga Health robs districts of ambulances.
“Indigo and Towong shires are repeatedly in the five
worst performing districts when it comes to ambulances needed in a life-threatening emergency,” he said.
“Those ambulances are in Albury-Wodonga, when they should have been looking after their communities.”
Mr Tilley said the solution was not as simple as more hospital beds.
“Ambulance ramping is partly the result of the lack of beds for patients but there are other factors at play here,” he said.
“People are struggling to get into their GP, some can’t afford the cost and so they turn to emergency departments (EDs) as an alternative.
“Increasingly they turn up at emergency far sicker than they should through not seeing their local GP.
“The emergency departments at Albury and Wodonga see between 200 to 210 patients each day and has just 44 beds.” ■ Continued page 2
Brendan Breen 0427
Local ambulance services under strain as response times continue to lag
■ From page 1
“Geelong’s Barwon Health is the largest regional ED and sees, on average, about 220 patients a day, so 10 to 20 more than our health service and yet it has almost double the number of beds.
“We also know funding requests for modular units and a ward at Mercy Health that could provide additional beds to Albury Wodonga Health have repeatedly been ignored.”
Advocating for improved code one ambulance response times has been one of Indigo Shire’s highest priorities.
A joint submission with Towong Shire has been made to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Ambulance Victoria addressing challenges with ambulance response times in the region.
Besides additional ambulance resources to help bring response times closer to state averages, support for a new, single-site regional hospital to improve efficiencies across the health system is being advocated for as well.
A new state-of-the-art Beechworth Ambulance Station is to be built to replace the current station situated on Frederick Street.
Once complete, the multi-million-dollar ambulance branch will support more paramedics on the road in Beechworth to help meet the growing demand in the region.
The new ambulance station is being delivered as part of the state government’s ongoing investment in ambulance infrastructure, with more than $280 million committed since 2015 to upgrade and rebuild branches across the state.
Aged care residents dig in for healthy lifestyle
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
AGED care residents at Beechworth Health Service (BHS) are set to get active in a new edible garden by growing their own fresh produce.
Stringybark Lodge resident Betty Dobson, 84, was thrilled to cut the ribbon on her birthday to launch the official opening of the new edible garden on Tuesday.
A launch took place at both The Acacias and Stringybark Lodge for the garden project.
Health promotion office Bernadette McCann said the BHS edible garden team comprised residents of both The Acacias and Stringybark Lodge and staff who maintain BHS gardens.
“They have been busy installing and creating what will be a flavour and fragrant filled garden for the residents to be active, engaged and stimulated,” she said.
Both The Acacias and Stringybark Lodge residents had been consulted from the initial design stages through to decision-making around edible plant choices including flowers suitable for the environment.
BHS board chair Isabel Paton said the project started around 12 months ago with a $65,000 grant from Vic Health as part of the ‘Public Sector Residential Aged Care Sector (PSRACS) and Community Kitchen Garden Initiative’.
Dr Paton said the gardens catered for all levels of physical ability for residents who enjoy gardening where raised garden beds had been included as well.
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“Many residents have come from places where they have had gardens that were their passion,” she said.
“The edible gardens are a really great way to help people have a healthy and nutritious diet.”
Dr Paton said by growing their own edible plants, the produce can be harvested to prepare meals in the kitchen for residents.
“It’s also a really fantastic outdoor activity and good both physically and mentally for resi-
dents,” she said.
“It’s a really great way to get people out and about and participate in something they might have been really interested in previously, or maybe some residents will find their green thumb and their passion.”
For BHS chief executive Sharon Walsh, the edible garden is a way to bring all residents together.
“It’s an open activity, particularly in spring and summer
where they can get out and do gardening,” she said.
With kitchen appliances such as thermomixers, Ms Walsh said they undertake a little cooking too.
“It lends into that lifestyle component of it as well which is really important,” she said.
Stringy Bark Lodge resident Lorraine Whitehead and part of the project garden team had been a passionate gardener before moving into the accommodation facility around two years
ago.
“I love to see plants growing and has given me that feeling of doing something worthwhile,” she said.
“It’s lovely to be active outside and I’m looking forward to seeing how it goes.”
Aged care residents and staff enjoyed a delicious morning tea at the Stringybark Lodge launch while The Acacias residents enjoyed a launch of their edible garden and an afternoon tea with staff later in the day.
MP “pessimistic” new Yeddonba
YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
re-opening date will be met
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
CHILTERN’S Yeddonba Indigenous Rock Art site is now expected to be re-opened by December. It will be more than four years since the Yeddonba site was fenced off and padlocked by Parks Victoria over concerns with the structural integrity of its walkway and viewing platform.
In 2022, then Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the work was a priority for Parks Victoria and would commence in the first half of that year.
Several follow-ups with subse-
quent ministers and failed tender processes have followed before another promise of completion by December 2024.
Ongoing closure has meant continued lack of access for locals and tourists alike to the significant cultural site and tourist attraction.
In response to a question from Member for Benambra Bill Tilley in the Victorian Parliament last month the current Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said “works to reinstate access is expected to be completed in December 2025”.
Mr Tilley said he won’t be popping any champagne corks just yet.
“This has been a long, frustrating tale of everything that is failing with this Labor Government,” he said.
“Three Ministers, two failed promises and now a date set at the end of the year – pessimistically I’d say that’s a long way off, given the history of this project.
“It can’t be that hard to fix, it’s a wooden walkway on some supports – there are backyard decks that are more complex.”
A Parks Victoria spokesperson told the Ovens and Murray Adver-
tiser in January it was important the environmental body got the project right.
Mr Tilley has also been advised that Parks Victoria is expecting to receive final engineering advice on the Spring Creek Bridge located in the Beechworth Historic Park by the end of June.
That advice is expected to detail the extent of work needed to repair the flood damaged bridge, including cost estimates.
The bridge has been closed since October 2022 due to safety concerns about its structural integrity.
SUPPORTIVE: Beechworth Health Service (BHS) team project members Max Grant (left), Bernie McCann, Kel Clark, Jeene Von, Darren Brough, BHS CEO Sharon Walsh, Stringybark Lodge resident Betty Dobson, BHS board chair Isabel Paton and Bec West at the launch on Tuesday. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley
EXCITED: Some of the Beechworth Health Service aged care residents from Stringybark Lodge Shirley McKoy (left), Barbara Lowery and Ted
THRILLED: Stringybark Lodge resident Betty Dobson was delighted to cut the ribbon on her birthday for the official launch of the edible garden.
New signage set for change after community feedback
By CORAL COOKSLEY
NEW interpretive signage recently installed by Indigo Shire Council in Beechworth’s Historic Precinct has sparked an outcry from some community members.
Information conveyed to the community via the council’s website on 12 June indicated the vibrant signage upgrade was to enhance visitor experience with immediate recognition of the precinct’s heritage buildings and their unique significance.
Council also said signage had been developed in consultation with Heritage Victoria and cultural heritage specialists.
Indigo Shire Council CEO Trevor Ierino has addressed community feedback regarding the new signage.
“We recognise that the blue colour used on the signage frames has not met community expectations and requires adjustment,” he said.
“The colour selection was intended to acknowledge the precinct’s significant role as a justice and administrative headquarters during the gold
rush era and align with the ‘police blue’.
“However, we accept that the final colour outcome does not align with our original vision or Heritage Victoria’s understanding of the approved design which anticipated a deeper tone rather than the brighter blue that was implemented.”
Heritage Victoria, which granted the permit exemption for this project, has confirmed that the current colour does not accord with what was agreed to in the approval process.
“We fully accept this assessment and take responsibility for the discrepancy,” Mr Ierino said.
He said council is committed to working closely with Heritage Victoria to reach an agreed outcome and implement necessary changes.
“Our priority is ensuring the signage frames are sympathetic to the precinct’s heritage character and serve to enhance this nationally significant site,” he said.
The new interpretive signage has been designed to celebrate the Beechworth Histor-
ic Precinct’s National Heritage status and rich local history.
The signage provides visitors with clear building identification, historical context, and orientation maps to help them explore and connect with the site’s remarkable stories while ensuring immediate recognition of the precinct’s unique significance.
Last year Beechworth Historic Precinct Partnership was formed between Beechworth History and Heritage, business advocacy organisation Beechworth Inc and Old Beechworth Gaol to work with the community, Indigo Shire Council and federal and state governments to shape priorities for the precinct following its National Heritage Listing in August 2024.
“We’re collaborating to ensure the community can be fully engaged in the development and activation of plans for Beechworth’s colonial-era heart,” said partnership convenor Jamie Kronborg.
“We established the partnership specifically as a vehicle for broader community consultation on projects and story-telling in the precinct.
QUESTIONED: One of the signs in front of the Chinese Protectorate Office which have been subject to community feedback since its recent implementation, with council admitting they required adjustment.
“The council is well aware of this and has welcomed our approach.
“OBG contributed content to a sign describing the gaol site.
resented in these decisions.”
Major funding boost to upgrade sewage treatment plant
NORTH East Water has secured $5 million in federal funding for a $12 million upgrade of the Rutherglen/Wahgunyah wastewater treatment plant. The federal government has committed the money through the National Water Grid Fund’s Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions initiative as part of a co-contribution to enhance the plant’s capacity, supporting housing growth and improving environmental outcomes.
Construction of the new wastewater treatment plant and a 170-megalitre storage lagoon is set to commence in June 2025 and conclude by June 2028.
North East Water managing director, Jo Murdoch, emphasised the significance of the upgrade in delivering sustainable water solutions that meet the evolving needs of the community.
“But the council did not consult the partnership on design and content for the rest of the signage for the historic buildings facing Ford Street.
“We remain open to work with the council and encourage it to take up the offer so the community truly is rep-
Beechworth’s Darren Pope from Indigo Shire Creatives – a local artist network – questioned community consultation undertaken by council.
A Council spokesperson said the blue shade for the signage had been drawn from the Beechworth Historic Precinct Brand Guidelines in use since 2021.
Anti-Semitic slogan part of Beechworth skate park’s new mural vandalism
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
TWO teenagers were arrested by police after vandalising the newly reopened Beechworth skate park over the weekend.
Leading Senior Constable Ross Martin of Beechworth police said between 10pm and 12am last Friday night, two boys gained access to a nearby shipping container on Harper Avenue and used spray paint to graffiti the skate park.
“TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE”: Beechworth police arrested two boys over the graffiti at the Harper Avenue skate park.
Semitic sentiment.
with criminal damage and a range of other offences and would face children’s court at a future date, while the second offender would be given a caution.
The skate park had only just reopened last week after artist Chris Henderson painted a mural inside the skate bowl.
“The damage means we must now redirect ratepayer funds and resources to clean and repaint the facility, resources that could be used for other community improvements.
“The improved infrastructure will support population, industry and tourism growth by unlocking an estimated 500 housing lots in the area”, Ms Murdoch said.
“The upgrade will elevate the quality of recycled water produced at the plant from Class C to a higher fit-for-purpose quality, which will allow for more diverse irrigation uses including water for local agriculture.
“This will give the industry more security in times of dry periods as they won’t be subjected to water restrictions during drought.
“While in times of wet weather, the higher fit-for-purpose water can be safely discharged into the Murray River without impacting the environment.”
Ms Murdoch said North East Water’s investment, coupled with federal funding, reflected the water body’s agility in adapting to new growth opportunities.
An anti-Semitic slogan was written as part of the vandalism, calling for violence against Jewish people, along with a love heart and the word “cupkake(sic)”.
Led Sen Const Martin said the boys intended to write the slogan more for shock effect, without knowing the meaning or ramifications of the anti-
CCTV footage of the incident was handed to police, with officers arresting the two youths on Monday.
Led Sen Const Martin said one of the boys was charged
Indigo Shire Council CEO Trevor Ierino issued a statement to Facebook and said the vandalism was unacceptable and did not represent the values of the community.
“We take this incident extremely seriously, particularly given the hateful nature of some of the graffiti,” he said.
“Hate has no place here and we will not tolerate vandalism that damages community property and targets any group with discrimination.”
Led Sen Const Martin said an increase in graffiti had been observed in the local area in recent weeks, which local police would crack down on.
“This project is aligned with Victoria’s Housing Statement and supports its targets to address the housing shortage,” she said.
“We extend our gratitude to the Federal Government for supporting this vital project, along with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action for facilitating our application.”
A privileged career recalled
IRENE Jones was born in Sydney where she lived for the first 30 years of her life. She moved to the Albury-Wodonga region and apart from two short stints living in Central Australia, Irene has lived in this area since – specifically in Beechworth for the last 16 years.
What did you do workwise?
I’m retired from my social work profession, where I worked mainly in counselling roles throughout my career. I worked in community, state and Commonwealth funded services as well as in private practice. My special interest and skill was in the area of grief and trauma. What brought you to your role/career?
My own life experiences and challenges, coupled with an ever-growing eagerness to understand myself, others and the world around me drew me to my career. I sought to share what I’d learned, not only through counselling work, but also through training/ mentoring others doing similar work.
What did you love about your work?
As a counsellor, I felt enormously privileged to be entrusted with people’s innermost experiences, and be witness to their resilience, courage and effort in adapting to or transforming their challenges.
What do you do in the community?
I’ve volunteered delivering Meals on Wheels in Beechworth. I had done this previously as part of field placement whilst studying. Back then, I was awed by the
resilience and positive outlooks of the people I delivered meals to, and experienced the same thing this time.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
I’m aware there’s room for improvement in support services for older people, due to limits to both funding and people to deliver these services. Also, whilst Beechworth has a fantastic retirement village, it would be great to see further development in this type of resource.
What would you do to solve change or improve that situation?
Attracting more funding/ investment is likely the key. Changes to federally funded
‘in-home aged care’ services are coming, but not sure how that will improve things. I’ve noticed recent action to address the lack of community transport. I hope something comes of that. What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
World peace is uppermost in my mind at the moment. I remember after the 9/11 attacks in the United States, there was much talk about terrorism. A speaker at a conference I attended suggested ‘the best thing each and every one of us can do to eliminate terrorism, is to not be a terrorist in our own homes, workplaces and communities’. I think the same applies to war.
Sunday, 29 June
ALBURY WODONGA ORIENTEERING CLUB
Free ‘come and try’ orienteering event. Lake Sambell. Great way to check out the exciting sport. Assembly start - participants head to Junction Road and Peach Drive towards Lake Sambell Caravan Park where there will be signs with directions to the area near the Lake Sambell playground. Enquiries: Leigh Privett on mobile 0416 278 488. The event will be postponed to another weekend if there’s inclement weather.
Sunday, 29 June and Monday, 30 June
BEECHWORTH THEATRE COMPANY (BTC)
Auditions for next play ‘God of Carnage’ between 2pm and 5 pm on Sunday and between 7pm and 9pm on Monday. Beechworth Soldiers’ Memorial Hall. For more information about roles and auditioning visit BTC website beechworththeatrecompany. com.au/call-for-auditions. For additional information or questions email: hello@ beechworththeatrecompany.com.au or visit beechworththeatrecompany.com.au.
Saturday, 5 July
BEECHWORTH FARMERS MARKET
8am - 12pm. Always held on the first Saturday of every month. Great variety of fresh, local produce. Craft and food stalls. Located at the Anglican Christ Church, cnr of Ford and Church Streets.
Sunday, 13 July
MOLLY’S SONG PUB CHOIR
2pm – 5.30pm. Beechworth’s Hotel Nicholas. Fundraiser for Dementia Australia Research Foundation. Special guest performance by Irish/Australian singer, songwriter Damien Leith. Pub Choir led by Colleen Arnott. Accompanied by Sandra Williams on piano. Visit www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1411500 to buy tickets.
If the person you would most like to meet or knew, came to Indigo Shire or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?
I would love to show my friend Lynne, who lives in Queensland, where I live and why. I would show her every bit of Beechworth, have her sample local foods and music and take her to visit surrounding towns that showcase the region’s heritage and landscapes. What book are you reading?
My book reading has been minimal of late, but my preference is for fiction. I think this is because I’ve heard so many true stories in my working life. I just prefer to read stories that are based on imagination.
RUTHERGLEN MARKET: 9am – 12.30pm. Seasonal and regional produce. Always held on the second Sunday of every month. Visitors encouraged to bring their own bag, basket or esky and to minimise waste. The market changes with the seasons - buy fresh produce at its best. Support the local Lions Club dishing up egg and bacon rolls and has done from the very first market. Rutherglen Lions Park, Douglas Street.
Regional
ARTIST TALK WITH JEMIMA WYMAN AND EMILY SIMEK
HEAR from Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 artists Jemima Wyman and Emily Simek when they speak at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday, 28 June at 10.30am.
The winner and finalist respectively will speak about their work in the award exhibition, as well as their practice and process, with Jemima Wyman to join the event live from her home in Los Angeles. Free tickets can be booked by visiting wangarattaartgallery.com.au/Programs/ArtistTalks-Jemima-Wyman-Emily-Simek.
Irene Jones
Singing for research
By CORAL COOKSLEY
MUSIC lovers have the chance to sing for research in Molly’s Song Pub Choir to be held at Beechworth’s Hotel Nicholas next month.
A performance will follow to set toes tapping by Irish Australian singer and songwriter Damien Leith from Wollongong.
The pub choir will be led by local soprano Colleen Arnott with piano accompaniment by wellknown pianist Sandra Williams.
The fundraiser in its third year previously held at the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall was started in Beechworth by local Libby Day to raise funds for the Dementia Australia Research Foundation.
Libby lived in Queensland before a move to Beechworth and since 2012 has raised around $50,000 with fundraising events in memory of her mother Molly.
“It’s about raising funds but also to raise dementia awareness,” she said.
“Dementia is growing and is the second leading cause of death for all Australians and the leading cause of death for Australian women.
“When I first started raising funds in 2012 dementia was not in the top five leading causes of death in Australia and now in 2025 it’s the second leading cause of
death for all Australians.”
Libby said an increase has been seen in the number of early onset dementia in the age brackets of 30, 40, and 50-year-olds.
For more than 25 years the research foundation has been awarding grants to help in finding treatment or a cure.
“They’re moving ahead in leaps and bounds,” Libby said.
“Dementia Australia says the best thing people can do to help prevent dementia is what’s done for a healthy heart such as a healthy diet, exercise, learn new things, remain social and even volunteer.”
Libby said this is important for people with loss of hearing too as they can often start to have problems with their memory from not hearing detail as they once did.
She said activities also included left and right side of the brain activities such as learning an instrument, dancing, singing and learning a song.
Libby said her mother loved music – an integral part of her world.
“It was a huge part of our life as a family and a gift she gave us,” she said.
“Music is a lovely thing for people with dementia because it can bring a little bit of the past into the present.
“I’ve worked as a music
therapist and have seen the joy that music and different activities involving music can give people with dementia.
“I saw it first hand with my mum, and so we decided to call the fundraisers Molly’s Song, in her honour, but also in recognition of the benefits of music for people with dementia.”
Libby said on the day people will learn to harmonise for a known song and have fun singing.
“People don’t have to be able to read music with all skills and voices welcome.,” she said.
“Participants come from all over the region and beyond with some people from Griffith in New South Wales who have booked.”
Support and sponsorship have been received from Hotel Nicholas, Timeless Support, Beechworth Gold, Dalcheri and Freeman on Ford.
Visit www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1411500 to buy tickets for the 13 July event starting at 2pm at the Hotel Nicholas, 1A camp Street, Beechworth.
PERFORMING: Irish Australian singer and songwriter Damien Leith from Wollongong will set toes tapping at Molly’s Song Pub Choir on 13 July.
Flu cases break 600 in North East
By STEVE KELLY
INFLUENZA cases in the North East are on the way up with more than 600 cases, Wodonga being the greatest with 400 cases confirmed by the Victorian Department of Health.
Indigo Shire had 38 cases until Wednesday, 25 June, Wodonga 400, Alpine Shire 22, Wangaratta 47, Benalla 18, Mansfield Shire 50, and Strathbogie Shire 40.
Confirmed influenza cases in Indigo Shire grew year-on-year from no recorded cases in the peak of COVID-19 in 2021 to 128 confirmed cases last year, and an all-time high in 2019 (161 cases).
Wodonga’s high number is on track to break last year’s high of 653 confirmed influenza cases.
A Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) spokesperson told this masthead they’re starting to see signs of flu and other respiratory illnesses in the community, which is typical for this time of year.
“It’s a good time to remind everyone to look after their health and wellbeing,” she said.
“Stay home if you’re unwell, rest, stay hydrated and practise good hygiene.
“There are also plenty of options for support that don’t involve a trip to the emergency department.
“Services like Victorian Virtual Emergency Department can help people access care and advice from home, which can be a great first step if you’re unsure what to do.
“Their team of nurses, nurse practitioners and doctors can provide medical assistance without needing to leave your home.”
For further information or to access this service visit www.vved.org.au
You can also contact Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or your GP.
Under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008, the department is authorised by law to collect information from doctors and laboratories about diagnoses of certain health-related conditions in Victoria.
The law exists to monitor and control the occurrence of infectious diseases and other specified conditions, and helps to prevent further illness.
Until 15 June some 2.1 million people had been vaccinated for influenza in Victoria, including 84,792 under 5 years old, 1.253 million aged 5-64, and 770,371 who were 65-plus.
Focus on youth in next month’s Kerferd Oration
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A LEADING advocate for children and youth spanning more than four decades will on Sunday, 27 July deliver the 23rd George Briscoe Kerferd Oration titled ‘Their Future Our Choice: Creating an Australia that works for young children’.
Orator Gillian Calvert AO with a lifelong commitment to children and their wellbeing has a career marked by unwavering advocacy for young people.
Ms Calvert’s work has stretched from therapeutic beginnings to transformative work as the first NSW Children’s Commissioner for children and young people from 1999 to 2009.
The then commissioner established the commission as an internationally respected body in policy, research and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on being child-centred and child-inclusive.
Ms Calvert’s impact extended internationally when she played a key role in breaking the silence around child sexual assault.
Her leadership at the NSW Child Protection Council was instrumental in shaping NSW’s collaborative and comprehensive approach to tackling child abuse and neglect.
Her efforts have left a strong legacy in children’s policy, protection, and participation at both state and national levels.
Ms Calvert was awarded an Order of Australia (AO) in recognition for her outstanding service as an advocate for children and youth, especially in protecting their rights and welfare.
Her work has continued to present-day strategic leadership in the public service, academia, and not-for-profit governance across sectors including hous-
Kerferd Oration.
ing, disability, aged care and refugee support.
Kerferd Oration committee chair Ross Kearney said Ms Calvert’s oration topic should be of great interest to the local community.
As a former crime lawyer, he said it was disappointing that media and political commentary on youth crime focuses narrowly on discussions about policing and sentencing.
“As a community we’re not committing enough resources to addressing causes and we tend to expect reactive law and order
WHISPERS
responses to address a far more complex problem,” he said.
“There is a lack of discussion around getting to root causes of dysfunctional and destructive behaviour - for example, examining how to support young people who are socially and educationally disadvantaged.”
Mr Kearney also said the youth of today are living with a background of very negative ‘white noise’, with media trumpeting international chaos and economic/educational roadblocks in Australia.
“This is not how we want our
children and young people to view their world,” he said.
“We want them to thrive, so they have a positive and productive life for themselves and their community.”
Ms Calvert hails from Myrtleford where her family had farmed along the Buffalo River until the land was reclaimed for construction of the Buffalo Dam and then moved to a sheep and cattle property in the New England region in NSW.
Each year for the Kerferd Oration, an eminent speaker is invited to challenge thinking, foster meaningful discussion, and promote active citizenship.
Four questions have been posed for this year’s Kerferd Oration attendees via the Kerferd Oration Facebook page with comments encouraged.
The first question is ‘what does it say about Australia that Bob Hawke was mocked when he promised that ‘by 1990, no Australian child will be living in poverty?’
The second question is ‘what does government and community responses to youth crime say about us as adults?’
The third question is ‘should we be worried that screen time for Australian children has ballooned – in 2017 it was four hours a day for primary school children and six hours a day for high school students while in 2023 for years 4 to 8, it had increased to nine hours a day?’
The last question is ‘children are the silent victims of domestic violence?’
The free event will be held at the Beechworth Soldiers’ Memorial Hall starting at 11am.
To reserve your seat or watch the live-steamed event visit www.kerferdoration.org.
Auditions kick off on Sunday for a local theatre company’s play
By CORAL COOKSLEY
IT’S only three days until lovers of acting have a fabulous chance to audition for Beechworth Theatre Company’s (BTC) next performance with the award-winning modern play ‘God of Carnage’.
BTC president and director of the play Elroy Bos said the performance offered actors a real challenge to get into character.
The dark and satirical comedy is written by French playwright, novelist, screenwriter and actress Yasmina Reza.
The playwright is known for her insightful and often humorous explorations of human relationships and societal issues.
Some background is two married couples meet to discuss the fight between their
two sons that led to one of them being hurt.
Annette Raleigh is a woman of wealth management with her husband Alan a lawyer while Veronica Novak is a writer, and her husband Michael a wholesaler.
They start a friendly discussion which becomes increasingly childish and combative and reveals the cracks in their lives and relationships.
And whatever did happen to the hamster?
Auditions for the roles of the upper class, well-mannered Raleigh couple, as well as the polished, educated Novak couple takes place this Sunday, 29 June between 2pm and 5 pm and then Monday, 30 June between 7pm and 9pm.
Mr Bos said the play asks the audience an interesting question about the differ-
ence between the people we become as we grow older and the image we display to others.
“I hope the audience will walk out of the theatre having seen great acting, with elements of the play they loved, disliked and didn’t understand and remain silent for a while until perhaps they see that there is a bottle, a mobile phone or a hamster in their own lives and decide to do something with it,” he said. If this opportunity sparks your interest visit BTC website beechworththeatrecompany.com.au/call-for-auditions for more information about roles and auditioning. An introduction email or any questions can be sent to hello@beechworththeatrecompany.com.au. Auditions are being held at the Beechworth Soldiers’ Memorial Hall.
UNWAVERING ADVOCACY: A former and the first NSW Children’s Commissioner Gillian Calvert AO will deliver this year’s
Wangaratta friends in TimorLeste for visit and conference
By ANITA MCPHERSON
MEMBERS of Wangaratta’s
Friends of Lacluta have touched down in Timor-Leste, ready to visit the communities they support and take part in the first Australian Timor-Leste Friendship Conference.
This year five local members have made the journey, with Karen Jones, Linda Sexton, Brian Thompson and Barbara Broz having arrived, and Andy Kimber in transit and preparing to join them.
They will meet their newly appointed local liaison officer, visit the isolated villages and settlements they support, and find out what each community’s most pressing needs are.
Friends of Lacluta member Heather Redmond said the group are looking forward to visiting schools and meeting the university students they sponsor, to see how they are progressing.
She said while a number of helpful items have been shipped ahead, including sewing machines and more Days for Girls sanitary packs, these days the group’s focus is on raising money to help provide training to local people on the ground, and supporting children living with disability.
“In the remote villages of Lacluta where conditions are very basic, the difficulties of living with a disability are magnified,” she said.
“The aim is to assess what is the most effective help we can provide, in the least intrusive way.”
One of the parts of the trip they most enjoy is visiting village schools, and with experienced educators among the group, local teachers welcome the opportunity for some professional development.
The Australia Timor-Leste
Friendship Network will host a conference on July 10 and 11 in Dili with Friends of Lacluta (Wangaratta) and Friends of Venilale (Mansfield) among 20 of the Australian friendship groups expected to attend, along with representatives from the Timor-Leste government.
On their return, the North East Victorian friendships groups of
Wangaratta, Indigo and Mansfield local government areas, will come together to host a celebratory dinner on Saturday, 20 September at the Wangaratta Uniting Church hall.
The event will recognise their more than two decades of friendship with the people of TimorLeste, and the Timor-Leste ambassador to Canberra will be among the special guests.
Tourism partnerships to boost overseas visitors
THE Victorian government has joined forces with major international and local tourism operators to attract more visitors to Victoria and grow the state’s $40 billion visitor economy. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos announced new tourism marketing partnerships with Accor, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Alpine Resorts Victoria. These deals will promote Melbourne and regional Victoria to key global markets through joint marketing campaigns – including advertising, social media, roadshows and special promotions.
Funded through the Labor Government’s $7 million Visit Victoria Industry Partnerships Program (VVIPP), these agreements see industry partners match government investment dollar-for-dollar.
An independent report from KPMG found that for every $1 spent through Visit Victoria’s marketing activities, the return on investment was up to $27 of tourism expenditure. Alpine Resorts Victoria CEO Amber Gardner was thrilled about the initiative.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Visit Victoria through this program to showcase our unique nature-based tourism destinations through large-scale advertising to reach thousands more potential visitors,” Ms Gardner said.
“We’re confident this campaign will boost snow season visitation, growing the significant contribution the resorts make to the visitor economy.”
According to the latest data from Tourism Research Australia, international visitor spend in Victoria reached a new record high of $9 billion in 2024, reinforcing the value of investing in global marketing partnerships.
SAFE ARRIVAL: Friends of Lacluta members and friends including (from left) Karen Jones, Brian Thompson, Linda Sexton (centre back) and Barbara Broz (second from right), were welcomed back to Timor Leste by Karen Champlin and local friends.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Name a prized fine wool (6)
7 What is a crack, gap, or other opening (8)
8 What is a sculptured image of a person (6)
9 Which crystallised violet quartz is used in jewellery (8)
11 What are facial expressions (7)
13 Which oil is used in making paints (7)
15 Name a short cord for securing something (7)
17 Name a tall, long-necked, spotted ruminant (7)
20 Which chair has arms that support elbows (8)
23 What is a tonsorial artist (6)
24 Which steroid hormone promotes masculine characteristics (8)
25 To decapitate, is to do what (6)
DOWN
1 What is junk mail, sent via the email (4)
2 Which term implies that something is free of cost (6)
3 What is a moral obligation (4)
4 When one encounters someone, one does what (5)
5 Name a champion Australian tennis player, Patrick ... (6)
9 To be affected with pain, is to be what (6)
10 What might we call one who deals in leather (7)
12 Name an eight-legged predatory arachnid (6)
14 What, perhaps, describes the hoi polloi (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
6 What do we call the hours of darkness (5)
16 What are rough, coarse, or uncouth persons (6)
18 To be silly, is to be what (5)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
19 Name the unit of electrical capacity (5)
21 Which term describes a method (4)
22 When one chills something, one does what (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
(a) A skin eruption (b) Greek god of dreams (c) A gigantic bright blue butterfly
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Afro-American musical form (5)
Board of Studies (3)
Break apart (5)
Determined (3)
Drags vessel ashore (5)
Fifth note (3)
Multiplies by two (7)
Six (comb.Form) (3)
Spiral (5)
Weaknesses of character (7)
Report into tech giants welcomed by country Australian media body
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) final report into digital platform services has been welcomed by Country Press Australia (CPA) as a landmark moment.
CPA president Andrew Schreyer said the report acknowledges the difficulties faced by regional and local news publishers in the digital age and validates the long-held concerns of independent publishers.
He said it highlights how global tech giants leverage their market dominance to control access, valuation, and monetisation of journalism in Australia, which ultimately harms local news.
“This report confirms what our members have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Local and regional publishers continue to face deeply entrenched power imbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms.
“This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.”
Mr Schreyer urged the Federal Government to swiftly implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation.
He said this is particularly given Meta’s refusal to renew publisher deals since withdrawing from news arrangements last year.
“Meta has walked away from compensating publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the table at all,” Mr Schreyer said.
“The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or by making a fair payment.”
He stressed the importance of directing public funding for journalism, such as the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), towards publishers actively producing local public interest journalism.
“Funding should go to the journalists and newsrooms who are on the ground covering councils, courts, community stories and local sport,”
Mr Schreyer said.
“These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected.
“They need direct and meaningful support.”
COUNTRY PRESS AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS
ACCC’S PUSH FOR A NEW DIGITAL COMPETITION REGIME
PROMOTE THE TRUTH:
Country Press Australia
president Andrew Schreyer said they support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and they also support enforceable transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content.
The ACCC report also addresses broader threats to journalism.
These include limited dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the increasing use of AI tools that potentially devalue or displace credible news.
“We support stronger platform obligations to prevent
scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said.
“We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news is ranked, labelled and monetised.
“We urge the government
to consider the rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News Bargaining Incentive framework.”
The rise of AI-generated content and misinformation on social media underscores the need for Australians to recognise credible journalism.
“Improving digital literacy
must be a national priority,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Australians need the tools to distinguish fact-based journalism from misinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what people see.”
These publishers are integral to their communities and continue providing vital public interest journalism in an increasingly disrupted media landscape.
Mr Schreyer, also publisher of the Warragul and Drouin Gazette, urged the government to act on the ACCC report’s recommendations.
“We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members can operate on a level playing field,” he said.
“Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital market conditions.”
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2004 Ford Fairmont Sedan, good condition, mileage 341,000km, VIN 6FPAAAJGSW4C96098, located Wangaratta, $3750. Ph 0437 172 131.
2007 Ford Ranger, 4 door space cab, new injectors, new tyres, mileage 236,000km, VIN MNALSIE907VS47995, located Wangaratta, $11,500. Ph 0437 172 131.
Ph 0438 003 652
O’BRIENS heavy duty off-road camper trailer, 100% Australian made, heavy duty canvas, queen size bed, slide out kitchen with 85L fridge freezer run from 2x 100amp batteries charged from 2x solar panels and 240v or DC to DC chargers, 2 burner LPG stove with griller and 2 gas bottles, 60L water tank, heaps of storage, new tyres, plus many more extras including a top fold over boat carrier, $4800. Ph 0421 171 050.
*Fixed charges for Eskdale are calculated on a 50% loading above the standard fixed charge rate. Any increase in meter size, for this system, will be charged on the same basis
WATER CONSUMPTION CHARGES
All water districts are charged the same water consumption fees unless alternative special fees apply. Water volumetric charges Based
WASTEWATER SERVICE FEES
Wastewater – fixed service charges – residential and non-residential Per annum Wangaratta, Yarrawonga, Benalla, Wodonga, Baranduda, Kiewa, Tangambalanga $285.47 Bright, Rutherglen, Wahgunyah, Beechworth, Myrtleford, Porepunkah, Bundalong, Chiltern $342.54
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TRADE WASTE CHARGES – COMMERCIAL Trade waste charges apply to all sewerage districts listed above.
$528.39
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THE BILLING CYCLE
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MAKING OF TARIFFS AND CHARGES FOR WATER AND SEWERAGE SERVICES
The foregoing tariffs and charges are made and levied upon the owners or occupiers of serviced properties for the period commencing 1 July 2025 and ending 30 June 2026.
CONCESSIONS
There is an annual State Government concession of 50% of the total water and sewerage bill (up to a maximum of $372.10 per year from 1 July 2025, the cap for users of one service is $186.05) that applies to eligible pensioners and health care card holders.
TENANTS
Howard takes out June Monthly Medal
By DYLAN POOL
ON Sunday, in perfect winter conditions we had 15 players turn up to the Beechworth Golf Club for the June Monthly Medal, which was great to see.
The winner of the day and the Monthly Medal was Jacob Howard (9) with a great 74 off the stick for a nett 65.
Runner up was Dylan Pool (2) with 68 nett on a countback from Jamie Dolny (14) 68.
The next two winning a ball
each were Jackson Wells (18) 70 and Andrew Field (4) 70.
Four of the five nearest the pins went off.
Andrew Field on the 3rd, Jackson Cull on the 5th (lipped out), Dean Howard on the 10th and Tyson Carey on the 17th.
Dylan Pool had an eagle two weeks in a row, chipping in on the par five 1st.
We also had the qualifying for the handicap matchplay championships.
The matches are as follows.
1 Jacob Howard Vs 8 Andy Croome
4 Jackson Wells Vs 5 Andrew Field
2 Dylan Pool Vs 7 Dave Clark
3 Jamie Dolny Vs 6 Dean Howard
We would like to see these first round matches completed within the next month.
On Wednesday the women played the final round of the club championships.
The daily winner was Coral Ward (23) with 74 nett on a countback from Glenda Marshall (15) 74.
Glenda claimed a nearest the pin on the 17th.
A full write up and results are to follow soon.
This coming Sunday we are going to hold an ambrose event. This is a great opportunity for any of our non regular golfers to come out and taste some competition golf.
All men, women, juniors and visitors of the like are welcome.
No handicaps required.
Arrive 11:30am for 12 hit off and some afternoon tea will be provided.
TO RACE:
and Riley
members encouraged to come
and support
Local brothers to make tracks this weekend
By JORDAN DUURSMA
TWO Eldorado brothers are hitting the track this weekend for the third round of the Junior VIC Motocross Championships at Winton Motocross Club on Saturday, 28 and Sunday, 29 June, racing from 9am-3pm.
Riley Wheeler, 10-years-old, is leading the Junior VIC Motocross championship in the 65cc C grade after two rounds.
Darcy Wheeler, 12-years-old, came second in the 85cc small wheel C grade class last year in the Victorian titles which saw him move up to B grade for this year’s races.
Proud dad, Marcus Wheeler, said his sons are feeling good going into this round.
“Riley is leading his grade and is feeling pretty confident and excited to compete on the weekend,” he said.
“Darcy has moved up a grade so that’s been a step up for him.
“The boys have been racing for three years but they have been on bikes since they were little.
“It’s my fault, I’ve always been into
riding and that’s how they got their foot in the door.
“They were a bit intimidated by the racing at first but now they love it and hope to continue to move up.”
Wheeler said the support of sponsors, Gasmoto and Wheeler Earthworks, makes all the difference in giving the boys the opportunity to compete.
The community is encouraged to come along this weekend - entry for spectators is free with a canteen available to purchase food and drinks.
Wheeler said they have a very entertaining and exciting weekend ahead of them.
“The boys are competing at a fairly high level, so you see a lot of action,” he said.
“It’s worthwhile for the spectators and encouraging for the competitors to see the community come out and support them.”
The brothers will head to Ballarat for the fourth and final round of the championships.
For more information, follow MV Motocross Management on Facebook.
ROUND THREE: Riley and Darcy Wheeler are gearing up for a big weekend of racing heading into the the third round of the Junior VIC Motocross Championships.
READY
Local brothers, Darcy (12)
(10) Wheeler, are taking on the the third round of the Junior VIC Motocross Championships, with community
along
them.
PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma
Bushies’ top-three aspirations to go under the knife
A SECOND half surge from Beechworth’s senior footballers saw them propel to a muchneeded 47-point win over Tallangatta ahead of a testing three weeks against finals contenders.
The Bushrangers were matched by the underdog Hoppers in the first half at Rowen Park as the teams entered the sheds with just five points in the game.
Despite the absence of star midfielder Elliot Powell, Tallangatta’s finals aspirations were on the line and it showed early.
But a different Beechworth side headed into the second half to storm away from Tallangatta and kick 9.1 to 2.0 in the third quarter before winning 18.8 (116) to 10.9 (69). It was the usual suspects leading from the front with star defender Kayde Surrey putting on a masterful intercept marking display while Barton medalist Cam Fendyk commanded the midfield.
Spearheads Brad Fendyk and Lachie Armstrong finished with hauls of five goals each while Harry Taylor, Degan Dolny and Tristan Lenaz were also solid contributors for the visitors.
Beechworth maintained their one-game buffer in the top three with the win, but their position could be under threat in
BEECHWORTH FACE CRUCIAL MONTH OF MATCHES
FOLLOWING IMPORTANT 47-POINT WIN IN TALLANGATTA
DEBUT MAN: HUGH KAVANAGH (LEFT) PLAYED HIS FIRST SENIOR GAME FOR BEECHWORTH LAST SATURDAY AFTER SOME STRONG RECENT FORM IN THE RESERVES, IMPRESSING COACH JACK NEIL IN THEIR TEAM’S 47-POINT WIN AT TALLANGATTA.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
a challenging three weeks ahead.
First the ‘Bushies will host Thurgoona at Baarmutha Park on Saturday before taking on Chiltern and Kiewa Sandy Creek.
The Dogs have hit form after claiming the scalp of second placed Barnarwartha and are leading the chasing pack for the coveted top three position, currently occupied by Beechworth.
The two teams last met in round one this season, when Beechworth pinched the game late to the tune of seven points after trailing for most of the day.
Across the fence, Beechworth’s A grade side was given a harsh reality check after a strong run of form, going down to a strong Tallangatta side 57-21.
The Hoppers were hot from the start and put on a dominant display in the second quarter, winning the period 18-2 to hold a commanding 22-goal half time lead.
The Bushrangers will look to regroup against a similarly challenging Thurgoona outfit as they try and stay in touch in the finals race.
SWITCH KICK: KAYDE SURREY WAS AT HIS BEST ACROSS HALF-BACK FOR BEECHWORTH, NAMED BEST ON-GROUND AT TALLANGATTA.
