SERVO STAND
Around 275 artists are preparing for another Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize exhibition, with exhibition organisers including Joy Schmidt (pictured with her painting last year) excited to welcome guests to the opening gala on 8 March.
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Indigo Shire councillors oppose proposed development of a 24/7 service station and truck stop
By CORAL COOKSLEY
INDIGO Shire councillors unanimously opposed the proposed development of a 24/7 service station and truck stop at the intersection of Federation Way and the Murray Valley Highway in Rutherglen at council’s first meeting for the year on Tuesday night.
hearing on 16 January this year.
Director of planning and corporate services, Greg Pinkerton, said had council been given the opportunity before the developer took the permit application out if its hands, council would have refused to grant a planning permit.
One councillor Scott Landells had to leave the chamber while discussions took place due to a conflict of interest for his involvement in the Save Lake Moodemere campaign relating to planning permit prior to his running for council.
Developers last year took the application out of council’s hands taking it to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
The application for a planning permit had been submitted by Outlook Property Services P/L on behalf of BE Judd P/L and TFB Wine Investment P/L.
Lawyers represented council, the developers and a local incorporated group set up to fight the proposal – Friends of Lake Moodemere, at a preliminary
Mr Pinkerton said among a number of issues, the proposed development had not adequately considered the flood and environmental risk to the site as required by clauses in the Indigo planning scheme.
In a question asked if council evaluated the risks to the waterways leading directly to Lake Moodemere and Sunday Creek and to the water supply to the vineyards of many of the key wineries of Rutherglen, Mr Pinkerton said the question went to the heart of Council’s decision.
“Council’s planning team hasn’t been able to complete that risk assessment, and that is a primary reason for recommending to council tonight that the application would have been refused if council had been given a chance,” he said.
■ Continued page 2
Gas leak contained by emergency services in Chiltern
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A GAS leak within the Chiltern township on Wednesday morning was contained in quick ime by emergency services.
A CFA spokesperson said emergency services including four CFA units from Chiltern and Barnawartha along with FRV and police responded to reports of a burst gas main on Conness Street around 8:54am.
Representatives of the relevant gas company and WokSafe also attended.
The spokesperson said crews were quickly able to locate the gas leak and bring the incident under control at 9:06am.
Throughout the incident an advice message was issued for the Chiltern community to stay informed.
Man airlifted after Stanley motorbike collision
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A MOTORBIKE rider suffered serious injuries in a motorbike collision near Stanley on Sunday afternoon.
Police said two motorbikes collided on Number One Road among bushland around 12:40pm.
An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said a man in his 50s was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious but stable condition, with upper and lower body injuries.
No further emergency treatment or transport was provided.
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
Local support ramps up for new Albury-Wodonga hospital
By CORAL COOKSLEY
INDIGO Shire Council is calling on residents to join the ght for a new single-site Albury-Wodonga hospital by taking to the steps of the Victorian Parliament next Wednesday.
Mayor Sophie Price said a strong message needed to be sent to the state government that current plans to redevelop Albury Hospital are inadequate and will not meet the needs of growing communities.
In a message to the Indigo community, Cr Price said the issue is more than an Albury-Wodonga hospital problem.
“It’s a regional health issue impacting more than 300,000 people,” she said.
The council is among 17 regional councils advocating for a new hospital unanimously com-
Indigo Shire councillors oppose proposed development of a 24/7 service station and truck stop
■ From front page
Mayor Sophie Price said council was never going to be the decisionmaking authority in this instance as the applicant took council o to VCAT for failure to determine such a complex application in such a short time frame.
Cr Price said there is a strong case for refusal on the grounds the shire planners had listed.
mitted to escalating advocacy.
The advocacy comes as Indigo Shire recorded the lowest percentage of ‘lights and sirens’ ambulance responses within the 15-minute benchmark in the last quarter of 2024.
Member for Benambra Bill Tilley believes it’s all related to the lack of beds at Albury Wodonga Health and told the Victorian Parliament last week.
“That is the root cause of why ambulances are ramped and surgeries delayed,” he said.
Mr Tilley said only one in ve life-or-death emergency ambulance callouts were reached in the critical time window late last year.
Albury Wodonga Health waiting lists increasing by about 10 per cent to 3665 people.
“The average wait for Category
patients supposed to be treated inside 90 days.,” Mr Tilley said.
“Towong Shire has the longest average wait time for life -threatening emergencies in the state, more than double the benchmark.
“The health services are in crisis.
“We can argue and play politics about the future of Albury Wodonga Health but I’m increasingly worried about the here and now.
“The category break-up of the waiting list is not included in the latest data dump.
“But the total number increased by 300 people in three months, the average waiting for surgery is horrendous and yet we know there are people waiting far longer.
“If a Wodonga ambulance is stuck at Albury Base Hospital trying to o oad a patient because
call in the Beechworth service, then the Tallangatta ambos and so they all get sucked into AlburyWodonga, leaving their communities exposed.”
He said the state government had threatened ning hospitals if ambulances can’t o oad patients in 40 minutes, but beds were not being provided.
Although numbers haven’t been nalised for the trip to Melbourne, the mayor and three councillors will join other mayors and councillors from various regional shires.
Representatives from Border Medical Association as well as Better Border Health advocates and community members will also travel to the city.
To join the group travelling to Melbourne visit the Better Border Health Facebook page to reg-
She said council has two roles – as the planning authority and as community representatives.
“VCAT should take into account the cumulative e ect of many community concerns raised such as environment, road safety and amenity concerns raised by councillors,” she said.
Cr Price said council had visited the site a number of times to assess the development.
“For all of the reasons that have been made clear to us by the community, it should be so strongly refused,” she said.
Cr Price said she was ba ed by the idea of a service station on the corner a dangerous section of the road.
Councillor Diane Shepheard said more than 100 submissions had been received opposing the development.
She said the planning document conclusion says the proposal does not result in net community bene t, should be refused and summed up community concerns.
“Our planning department says the proposal raises a number of issues, including suitability in the farming zone, environmental issues including vegetation removal and impact
We have declared that area important for tourism and this [the proposal] does not fit into our tourism strategy in that space.
- COUNCILLOR DIANE SHEPHEARD
on fauna, road safety issues, impacts on businesses in the area, including surrounding wineries, impacts on water quality in Lake Moodemere and ow on impacts to irrigation water, ooding and overland ows, and amenity for the local residents,” she said.
“A number of people have said that in their submissions.”
Cr Shepheard said $5.13 million (funded by the federal government) had just been spent on a cycle loop around the heritage winery area.
“We have declared that area important for tourism and this [the proposal] does not t into our tourism strategy in that space,” she said.
“One of the most important things that everybody has said including the planning department, councillors and all submissions is to maintain the quality of water within the Black Dog Creek catchment to prevent buildings and works from impeding ows of water.
“This is right on the edge of a very important vulnerable waterway with a lot of vulnerable species.
“It’s important that we look at all those other aspects as well as the environmental issues even though it’s out of our hands.”
Cr Roberta Horne had grave concerns around potential road safety and tra c issues generat-
ed by the proposal while deputy mayor Jane Dowsley said she was deeply concerned about the development’s impact on the visual amenity of the area.
“Rutherglen is known for its world class wineries, culinary excellence, gold rush history, beautiful environment, events and outdoor activities,” Cr Dowsley said.
She said a service station on the subject land would result in a detrimental change to the character of the site and surrounding properties and should be refused by VCAT.
Friends of Lake Moodemere member Robyn Pfei er said she was pleased to have council’s unanimous support in opposing the development.
Councillors have spoken passionately recognising the community does not want this development to go ahead and have listened with unanimous support.
“Council had to consult with so many statutory bodies,” she said.
The next VCAT hearing with lawyers is scheduled from 17 to 20 March.
NOT SUPPORTED: Inidgo Shire Council have not supported a planning permit for a 24/7 service station and truck stop on the corner of the Murray Valley Highway and Federation Way near Rutherglen.
Beechworth in travel app’s top town’s of Australia
BEECHWORTH has been named in the top ve Australian towns of the year according to travel app Wotif.
Now in its eighth year, the Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards recognise trending Australian destinations for the year ahead and are based on the Wotif data index that looks at accommodation a ordability, quality, and traveller satisfaction.
In being named h, Wotif’s destination insight said the town’s spot on the list proved there was more than just the coastline to explore around the country.
“Whether it’s a trip to the bakery to sample their famous beestings, visiting local Beechworth wineries, or enjoying the world-class Indigo Epic Mountain bike trails, Beechworth is the ultimate country town getaway,” it read.
New South Wales was back on top of the rankings as Port Stephens claimed this year’s win, with more than a 75 per cent in-
crease in accommodation interest observed.
Rounding out the top three destinations are Cairns in Queensland,
and Mandurah in Western Australia.
The awards come as over a quarter of Aussies want to visit new destinations in Australia this year, according a Wotif survey.
Additionally, short breaks will remain key for many Aussies, with 3 to 5 days being the sweet spot for domestic travel in the year ahead.
Wotif Travel Expert, Rebecca Hurley said Aussie Town of the Year was about celebrating the destinations and world class travel experiences in our own backyard.
“We know value for money will continue to be important in 2025 and this year’s top ten destinations o er a ordable accommodation options,” she said.
“With Easter and the school holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to lock in a short break.”
HUGE VARIETY: VISITORS AT LAST YEAR’S EXHIBITION HAD THE CHANCE TO SEE QUALITY ART IN A RANGE OF STYLES, MEDIUMS AT THE EXHIBITION.
CLOCKED UP: Wodonga police caught a 17-year-old motorbike rider at 126km/h in an 80km/h speed zone.
17-year-old motorbike rider caught 46km/h over limit in Baranduda
A 17-year-old New South Wales P-plater was caught more than 40km/h over the speed limit near Baranduda last Saturday.
Police said Wodonga Highway Patrol members detected a motorbike travelling northbound on WodongaYackandandah Road at 126km/h in an 80km/h speed zone.
The 17-year-old rider from Albury was issued a $840 infringement notice and was immediately disquali ed from driving in Victoria for six months.
The Albury P-plater was also issued a $198 ne for failing to display P-plates and was issued three demerit points.
“Don’t overlook the speed zones you are travelling in,” a police spokesperson said.
Schools receive maintenance boost
By CORAL COOKSLEY
Artistic talent to be showcased
By CORAL COOKSLEY
AN ANNUAL art exhibition drawing entries from around the region and other states being held in Rutherglen from 8 to 16 March is set to draw big crowds from near and far.
This year’s Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize in its eighth year has close to 500 entries from 275 artists as well as 64 youth artists.
The exhibition is a major attraction during the popular Tastes of Rutherglen wine festival held over the long weekend.
An exhibition organiser Irena Webster said the art prize breathes life and colour into the community through the arts.
“History indicates the art prize will again be a huge drawcard for visitors who also come to experience the wonderful hospitality, exceptional food and extraordinary wines for which Rutherglen is known,” she said.
“There have been signi cant entries from local, and regional artists as well as from Queensland and Western Australia who have heard about the art prize’s professional reputation and high standard and have been motivated to enter,” she said.
“This year we are pleased to have
attracted many new artists along with the return of many favourites.
“Youth entries have doubled in number which speaks highly of fostering creativity by art teachers in our secondary schools.”
Ms Webster said Arts Rutherglen is delighted to have ongoing and generous sponsorship from businesses with a prize pool of $16,350 covering the categories of painting/mixed media, work on paper, 3D artworks, photography and youth.
Winners will be announced by three judges - Di Kotzur, Ben Eyles and Christine Cans eld-Smith - with works unveiled at the Gala Opening Night on Friday 7 March kicking o at 6.30pm.
Albury-Wodonga based photography teacher Ben Eyles loves sharing the joy of photography with others.
Mr Eyles said in judging photography entries he would be looking for a great story and great technical skills.
“Showing and sharing work at the exhibition is a great experience,” he said.
“From getting out to making the images, to preparing them for print - it’s all valuable for a photographer.”
He said the exhibition is impor-
tant for the local community as work from local talented artists needs to be seen.
“Seeing photos in print and hanging on a wall is a special experience,” he said.
Beechworth artist Christine Cans eld-Smith will be judging paintings created in a variety of mediums.
Looking for good examples of artworks created using accepted principles of art and design, Ms Cans eld-Smith said usually a fourstep process is used.
Description, subject interpretation, intent of the artist’s interpretation being realised, and presentation with technical or artistic skill will be used as well as her thoughts on original creations.
Ms Cans eld-Smith said the exhibition gives all creative people in the northeast and beyond an opportunity to showcase their work professionally.
“Art allows people to express their feelings and thoughts creatively helping them share their unique perspectives with others,” she said.
For Rutherglen artist and judge Di Kotzur, judging art involves looking beyond the visual appeal to understand its intention with originality an important factor, ability
Art allows people to express their feelings and thoughts creatively helping them share their unique perspectives with others.
- MS CANSFIELD-SMITH
to hold the audience’s interest with visual elements or concepts that provoke thought.
“A strong artwork o en tells a story,” she said.
The artist said exhibitions create a space for artists and visual creators to explore new trends, techniques, and concepts, while staying relevant and connected in a constantly evolving eld.
“This exhibition has gone from strength to strength and is a testament to the talent and commitment of the Arts Rutherglen group that created it,” she said.
“Beyond artistic growth, this exhibition helps build professional networks, gain visibility and recognition for the Arts, and potentially nd new opportunities.”
Ms Webster said the cultural event much loved by locals, wellknown by regional visitors and repeat exhibiting artists, the Tastes of Art Prize o ers quality art for viewing and purchase in a range of styles, mediums and varying prices to suit all budgets.
Gala Opening tickets at $20 each are available by visiting www.trybooking.com/CVYYA.
The exhibition runs for nine days from 8 March at Rutherglen’s Memorial Hall with a $5 entry with free admission for students.
WOORAGEE Primary School and Beechworth Secondary College are among six government education providers in North East Victoria to receive funding for maintenance projects under the State Government’s Planned Maintenance Program (PMP). Member for Northern Vicotria Jaclyn Symes announced funding last week for 158 schools from the across the state sharing in a pool of more than $47.9 million.
Wooragee Primary School will receive just over $235,000 while the local secondary college will receive around $137,000.
Wooragee principal Angela Gray said the grant was awarded to ensure the school’s ramps met compliance standards, enhancing accessibility for all.
“This improvement will provide students with special needs a safer and more inclusive way to navigate the playground,” she said.
Funding gives schools the chance to undertake essential work in classrooms and other school buildings to address the outcomes of the Ramps Safety Audit Program.
Works include the installation of new ramps and minor works to existing ramps.
Works were determined by a rolling facilities evaluation process, providing up-to-date information on the condition of schools to create a faster and more targeted allocation of funding.
Ms Symes said she was delighted to see the schools share in funding to give students top quality facilities for learning.
TOP FIVE: Beechworth was names in the top five Australian destinations according to travel app Wotif.
A chance to give back
HELEN Lowndes was born in Beechworth and raised in Stanley on an apple, cherry and chestnut orchard.
She le the area for extended periods of time, but something always drew Helen back to her hometown.
What do you do workwise?
My husband Gary and I own Beechworth Machinery & Mowers – I look a er the bookwork, customer service and socials, while Gary is in the workshop with our mechanic.
What brought you to your role/ career?
Hearing the business was about to close a er servicing the community for 25 years was the catalyst for us taking a leap of faith and buying the business.
We have never done anything like this before, but we knew how important the service was to the community, and felt it was our time to give back.
What do you love about your work?
Being able to bring my dog to work.
And of course, being my own boss.
It is really rewarding helping our customers nd the right product for their speci c needs and xing machinery that might otherwise end up in land ll.
What do you do in the community?
I am proud to be involved in the B2B walk which connects people with lived experience of suicide loss, mental illness and survival.
I am also the o cial “ferret lady” at the annual Good Friday Appeal Family Fun Day at the Eldorado Tavern.
This is a fun day for everyone and last year we raised almost $25,000.
I am a Shero (volunteer) with Share the Dignity, a charity that works to make a real, on-the-ground di erence to the lives of women, girls and those who menstruate who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, domestic violence or poverty by distributing period products to those in need. Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
With the taxi service closing, I think it is imperative that we have a reliable transport option for the elderly, or anyone who doesn’t drive, to get to doctor appointments, shopping and other outings.
Feeling connected to community is incredibly important for good mental health and without transport it is hard to feel connected.
What would you do to solve change or improve that situation?
I think the only short-term solution is a volunteer roster.
I wish I had time to organise it but hopefully someone else
might take up the baton.
For elderly Beechworth residents I hope they are aware of the transport services through the council’s My Aged Care program.
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
Greed and a frightening return to some pre-WWII ideologies.
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?
Mataio (Matt) Brown, founder of She Is Not Your Rehab - an
anti-violence movement created to address and dismantle cycles of intergenerational trauma, violence and abuse.
I would love to watch the sunset from Mount Pilot while chatting about this incredible movement Matt started in his barber shop in New Zealand.
I would also ask them to visit the Beechworth Correctional Centre to talk to the men about ways to selfheal, for themselves and the next generation.
What book are you reading?
‘Running with Scissors’ by American writer Augusten Burroughs.
Saturday 1 March (tomorrow)
BEECHWORTH
FARMERS MARKET
8am -12pm. Variety of fresh, local produce and local craft. Have a chat with passionate growers and producers of the region, pick up some fresh local produce or grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls, or pop into Christ Church for coffee and cake.
SPRING DITCH
10am – 8pm. Sports Ground Stanley Recreation Reserve. Fun filled family event with original and diverse Australian music along with a ‘tip of the hat’ to the former Stanley New Year’s Day Sports held for over 140 consecutive years until the 1990s. Headline afrobeat band, Afrobiotics supported by regional artists including Minnie and the Moonrakers, Beechworth’s Sam Shallue aka Magic Bean Guillotine, Albury/Wodonga band Lucey and young Beechworthian musician Samara Bright. Master of Ceremonies John Walker with DJ Jane Doe to keep music playing throughout the day. Range of local food and full bar, family activities, competitions and demos featuring the NE Axemen’s Association woodchop plus a whole lot more. Tickets available at https://events.humanitix. com/spring-ditch-2025. Check out the ‘Spring Ditch’ Facebook event page or website for more information.
Friends of Lake Moodemere Gala Fundraising Event
From 6pm. ‘Evening Under the Stars’. An opportunity to make a difference to save Lake Moodemere. Being held at Lake Moodemere Estates Winery. All funds raised on the night go towards supporting attendance at VCAT in objecting to the proposed 24/7 highway service centre development on the doorstep of Lake Moodemere. Food, wine, live music, great auction and raffle prizes.Tickets to attend via Humanitix – visit https://events.humanitix.com/ savelakemoodemere
IF you have an event you’d like added to this calendar, please email edit.omadvertiser@ nemedia.com.au
Helen Lowndes
Snakes remain out and about in shire
By CORAL COOKSLEY
\AMBULANCE Victoria is encouraging people to be vigilant with the summer snake season not over until April this year.
Wooragee’s Elizabeth (Libby) Mourik knows only too well how life-threatening a snake bite can be.
Libby defeated the odds in 2015 a er nearly losing her life when a brown snake bit her four times causing a stroke with loss of speech and was on life support for ve days.
“People don’t look down when going on a walk, and I had been looking ahead and not down at my feet,” she said.
Libby who had been an ESL (English as a Second Language) senior head teacher at the time took six years to e ectively regain her speech.
Although there are no known recent reports of snake bites to Indigo Shire residents, 129 incidents of snake bites occurred around the state between 1 December, 2024 to 18 February this year with 125 people of those cases taken to hospital.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) director emergency management Dale Armstrong said snakes are out with continued hot weather.
“Bites can o en be avoided simply by being observant in areas that are likely to attract snakes, such as near rivers, long grass or sheds,” he said.
Mr Armstrong said snake bites may cause pain and swelling around the puncture wound, or there may be very few signs le on the skin.
“Symptoms of snake bit may include dizziness, blurred vision, breathing di culties, nausea, mus-
Storm’s snake bite a reminder to ensure pets slither safely
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A LOCAL Beechworthian’s Labrador is lucky to be alive a er being bitten twice by a brown snake not long into the summer months late last year.
Tony Lopez-Linares’ three-yearold dog, Storm, had face bites a er the discovery of a dead snake with teeth marks all over it.
Within a couple of minutes from the snake nd Storm had returned to Tony’s vehicle with three other of the owner’s Labradors.
“It was lunch time, and I had gone down to the shed at the vineyard where I work and saw the snake full of dog bites,” he said.
“I went straight back to the car where three dogs got up and moved to the back, and Storm got up and then collapsed.
“I slammed the door and drove straight to Helen’s clinic.” Storm underwent anti-venom treatment with a two-day hospital stay and was picked up on Melbourne Cup Day.
Local vet Helen Robinson said brown snakes had spiked in October and November last year with activity being noticed now as well.
cle weakness or paralysis,” he said.
“Some basic rst aid steps can be taken while waiting for an ambulance if people are with someone who su ers a bite.
“If the patient is conscious, it is important to keep them still and
reassured while waiting for help –only move them if it is too unsafe to stay put.”
The Australian Resuscitation Council recommends applying a pressure immobilisation bandage (snakebite bandage) starting at the ngers or toes and working up the arm or leg as far as possible, ensuring that the bite site is covered.
Mr Armstrong said if a bandage has already been applied to the bite, or if the bite is covered with clothing, the pressure immobilisation bandage should be applied over the top.
“Keep the patient as still as possible and, if able, use a splint of some kind to prevent movement of the a ected limb without removing the pressure immobilisation bandage until the patient gets to hospital,” he said.
People should not wash the site of the bite, as venom le on the skin can be used to help identify the type of snake and the anti-venom required.
Snake bite prevention and tips include giving snakes a wide berth and allowing them the chance to ee, all snake bites to be considered a medical emergency, not to attempt to catch or kill a snake and bite marks may not be obvious.
If someone has a suspected snake bite and even if unsure, Triple Zero (000) needs to be called immediately.
WORLD OF WINE: Global wine industry professionals gathered at La Cité du Vin trade museum in Bordeaux, to learn about and sample Victorian wines on February 13 and 14.
Local wineries showcased at French wine trade museum
By ANITA MCPHERSON
TWO local wineries are among a selection of Victorian wineries to be featured at the world’s largest wine museum in France, with the aim of highlighting the state’s reputation as a premium wine producer in an initiative supported by the state government.
“There are more blacks around too,” she said.
The veterinarian said a dog in a serious condition this week is being treated from a black snake bite.
“Some people consider bites from black snakes not as bad as browns, but they are more complex for dogs,” Dr Robinson said.
“Venom is damaging to internal organs and blood cells and can be delayed organ failure a er we think they have recovered.
“Anaemia or renal failure are the main ones.
“We’re very wary of that and monitoring is ongoing with post-hospitalisation treatment.”
The vet said antivenom used is for tigers and browns but has cross activity for blacks.
Dr Robinson said there was a slightly bigger window of opportunity for the treatment of cats compared to dogs,
“People must not get complacent,” she said.
“There can be a spike of activity in autumn when the weather cools o with snake incidents during this time too.
“Lots of people may not witness a snake bite event and it can be hard to di erentiate the snakes with similarities in appearance too.”
Victorian Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Danny Pearson, has announced a partnership with the iconic La Cité du Vin trade museum in Bordeaux, France, where Brown Brothers of Milawa and Chambers Rosewood Vineyards of Rutherglen will be joined by Ten Minutes by Tractor, William Downie, Bests Great Western and Yarra Yering at the major tourist attraction, which welcomes more than 400,000 wine lovers every year.
The wineries on show from Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, Grampians, Rutherglen and King Valley, were chosen to show the diversity and vibrancy of the wines produced in Victoria’s $9 billion wine industry.
Brown Family Wine Group is showcasing its Innocent Bystander Moscato 2022, Brown Brothers Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 and Brown Brothers Patricia Shiraz 2019 at La Cité du Vin.
The wines will be displayed for up to a year, accompanied by brand and product information, and will be periodically used for tastings and events for visitors.
The initiative was launched on February 13 and 14 when global wine industry professionals including buyers, importers, wine merchants and hotel and catering representatives gathered to learn about the regions and taste the Victorian wines.
She said snake activity varied from year to year depending on such elements as weather with rainfall and temperatures, surface
Mr Lopez-Linares said Storm hasn’t been the same since the snakebites, with a lag in energy, but was improving.
The launch followed Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2025 held on February 10 to 12, where Victorian wines were also celebrated on a global stage.
countries and this year drew
The event brings together about 4500 exhibitors from 50 countries and this year drew record attendance, with over 52,000 people coming through the doors over three days.
As part of the two-year partnership between Victorian State Government and La Cité du Vin, other Victorian wineries will have the chance to be displayed in the future.
SURVIVED: Beechworth’s Tony Lopez-Linares with his threeyear-old labrador Storm bitten by a brown snake late last year.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
LUCKY: Wooragee’s Libby Mourik was on life support for five days a er being bitten by a brown snake four times. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
BITE MARKS: Where Storm had been bitten on her face by the brown snake. PHOTO: Tony Lopez-Linares
Election campaign kicks off with Beechworth hub launch
By CORAL COOKSLEY
MORE than 100 supporters with a big splash of orange hit the Empire Hotel’s bar and dining area for the launch of the Independent team campaign’s Beechworth hub in the lead up to the federal elections.
People spilled onto the pavement at the Friday night event.
Indi federal MP Helen Haines said people gathered on the night as they believed in both their community as well as the nation.
“You believe in the power of people to really get engaged with your democracy and be the change that you want to see,” she said.
“And one of the things that we are so proud of as the people of Indi who started this community independent movement in 2012, and elected Cathy McGowan is it inspired people right across the nation.
“This is our first big campaign tonight and when you see a big group of people like this, you think that everything is possible united by a set of values that we all share and we get a burst of energy, optimism and hope.
“We really value a democracy and we’re here because we’ve got a story to tell and we want the rest of the country to know that they can do it too.
“We’re sending a message not only to each other, not only to the other voters of Indi but we’re sending a mes-
sage of hope to the whole nation.
“People of Indi always come with a solution.”
With her team Dr Haines said they had been working with constituents across the electorate to understand issues and having conversations over the last three-year term.
College teacher Finn Pedersen, new to the North East, said the community had heart and depth.
“I’m overwhelmed by everyone I talk to and has this amazing story and worldly knowledge,” he said.
“I think it’s a combination of the heart and the depth of people who created the Independent movement that kick-started in 2012.
“It’s because people are real to their core and goodhearted who think deeply about the world and this movement has been going on for more than a decade.
“I think it’s a reminder of what politics should be - a democracy which is politics by the people.”
Election campaign volunteer Beechworth’s Jack Nelson said he could go to Dr Haines’ o ce with an idea and be heard.
“I think that’s amazing,” he said.
“We have over 20 policies that I’m bringing forward to this election,” she said.
“As a member of parliament, I’m taking those ideas to Parliament and to the electorate.
“Opening a hub like this is ambitious, and it takes the work of so many hands to be
ready on pre-polling day and polling day.
“We are ambitious, and I’m proud of us for the ambition we have for each other, for Indi and the nation.
“An Indi Independent never walks alone as we all walk together.”
Beechworth Secondary
The campaign hub will be sta ed by volunteers, and open for locals to visit, learn about the election and speak about issues that matter to them.
Beechworth quintet Rosy Red Cheeks and Western Australian band Formidable Vegetable entertained the crowd on the night.
CAMPAIGN READY: Supporters and volunteers Glenice Gri iths (le ) and Robin Harvey with Indi Federal MP Helen Haines, Kylie Stephens and Phil Haines.
Join in a weekend of connection and creation in nature
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE community is invited to the inaugural meeting of the ‘Muddles’, a chance for likeminded folk to gather in nature to dawdle, wander, connect and create.
Held over the weekend of March 22 and 23, the gathering will include a free light lunch, tea and co ee at Out of Town Nursery and Humming Garden on 980 Beechworth/Chiltern Rd, surrounded by the Mount Pilot National Park.
Organiser Gavin Doherty described the event as an opportunity to learn how to dawdle and wander again, nding and collecting elements for an a ernoon of “making stu ”.
“You can work with others or on your own,” he said.
“It will be days without plans, without restrictions, and no interest in skills and nishing with something prettier than everyone else did.
“The good outcome is not the object created, but the mindless time making it and the best outcome is something that is incomplete and you long to nish.”
Gavin said the idea behind the event is to use nature and art to relieve stresses and issues.
“I have always be an ‘evangelist’ for the bene ts to the soul in being out in nature,” he said.
“I heard a psychiatrist who is head of happiness.com say that an hour “wandering randomly” in nature was better than an hour with a good therapist, and how do you nd, let alone pay for a good therapist.
“So it seems like a no-brainer to me.
“We have open space and nature, so why not share it.”
This inaugural weekend event is free of charge to gauge the interest from the community.
Gavin said hopefully it is just the rst step.
“I don’t know if it will be called the Muddles but hopefully some class of a group grows out of these days,” he said.
CREATING: Gavin Doherty creating a mobile/wind chime with materials found in nature. INSET: GET BACK TO NATURE: The inaugural meeting of the Muddles is an opportunity to connect with nature and create art at the Out of Town Nursery and Humming Garden.
“It could be beginning of something beautiful.”
For more information or to book in, contact Gavin at outo own6@bigpond. com.
Female VICSES Hume volunteers to build on emergency capacity
FEMALE and gender diverse volunteers from VICSES Hume region will unite on Saturday, 1 March as part of the organisation’s ever-expanding Women in Rescue (WIR) initiative.
Volunteers from Indigo Shire units are expected to make their way to the Seymour event which will provide volunteers with hands-on training experience designed to empower women in emergency operations.
Volunteers will take part in live demonstrations and skills development sessions, centred around VICSES boat response drills, Land-Based Swi Water Rescue and trailer manoeuvring.
They will also take part in a series of rescue competitions
volunteers
throughout the day, and have the opportunity to gain experience managing an incident from a VICSES Field Operations Vehicle mobile command point.
The event allows participants to gain experience using important tools and equipment, re ne their rescue skills, build condence and collaborate with likeminded volunteers in a supportive environment.
VICSES Women in Rescue Hume event coordinator, Lisa Wise, said it has been fantastic to see the continued growth of the event locally, going into its eighth year.
“It’s been supported by a cohort of committed female and gender-diverse volunteers driven to maximise their VICSES experience,” she said.
“This year’s event will o er a wide variety of activities for our volunteers to bolster their emer-
gency response capabilities and ensure they’re even better prepared to support their communities in an emergency.”
Currently, women and gender diverse members make up nearly 34 per cent (1,689 out of 5,002) of VICSES’ volunteer base, and the organisation aims to increase that number to better re ect the communities it serves.
The event follows a demanding 2024, where VICSES Hume region volunteers received a yearly total of more than 4500 Requests for Assistance (RFAs) from their communities.
For those interested in joining VICSES or learning more about becoming a volunteer, visit ses. vic.gov.au/join-us.
MAXIMISING SKILLS: Wangaratta
will be present at a VICSES Women In Rescue event in Seymour empower women emergency service volunteers across the region
Next crop of local leaders launched
ALPINE Valleys Community Leadership o cially launched its 2025 annual program recently, at Wangaratta’s Charles Sturt University Regional Study Centre.
This year’s 17 participants are drawn from across the North East and border region, and represent a diverse mix of industries, including business, community, government, rural industries, health, education and the environment.
Over the next 10 months, they will take part in an immersive leadership experience designed to deepen their understanding of regional dynamics, strengthen their leadership capacity, and expand their ability to support thriving and vibrant regional communities.
Alumni guest speakers Caz Sammon and Cr Allison Win-
ters spoke about their experiences, re ecting on the challenges and opportunities they encountered, and how the program has shaped their approach to leadership.
AVCL patron John Brown ofcially launched the 2025 cohort and shared insights into the program’s origins and the legacy it continues to weave, while board chair Steve Belli emphasised the ripple e ect of leadership development.
“Time and again, we see the impact of this program extend far beyond the participants themselves,” he said.
“The skills, con dence, and networks they develop ow back into workplaces, organisations, and communities, driving positive change across the region.”
AVCL executive o cer
Madeline Hines said the program was now fully resourced through the investment of partners and supporters, a testament to the value placed on cultivating place-based opportunities.
“The strong support for participation in the program reects a shared investment in local people,” she said.
“This not only bene ts the participants and the communities they serve, but also provides meaningful pathways for organisations to actively contribute to the betterment of our region.”
Organisations interested in supporting or partnering with AVCL to enable capacity building and leadership development initiatives are encouraged to get in touch at eo@avclp.org. au or 0417 348 547.
The skills, confidence, and networks they develop flow back into workplaces, organisations, and communities, driving positive change across the region.
- STEVE BELLI
Firewood collection areas open in state forests on 1 March
VICTORIANS will be able to collect free rewood for personal use from designated state forest rewood collection areas from Saturday, 1 March.
The autumn rewood season ends on 30 June, 2025, but collectors are reminded individual collection areas may close earlier if there is no more rewood available.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action director of forest and re operations, Aaron Kennedy, urged collectors to play it safe and check local weather conditions as well as their planned route before heading into the forest.
“When collecting, please drive only on formed roads, be aware of the environment around you and the safety of yourself and others as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning,” he said.
Mr Kennedy said people can collect up to two cubic metres per person per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per nancial year.
He encouraged people who rely on rewood for heating and cooking to plan for their needs early.
“Firewood needs at least 8-12 months to cure and must be dry before use,” he said.
Collected rewood cannot be sold.
Financial assistance is available for people on low incomes who need to buy rewood, for more information visit www. m.vic.gov.au/ rewood/energy-concession-and-support.
Find your local collection area and information about collecting rewood at www. m.vic.gov.au/ rewood/ rewood-collectionin-your-region.
Maps will be live from midnight, Saturday, 1 March.
An interactive map includes details about vehicle access, while pdf maps include safety and other practical information.
Within designated collection areas, collectors can collect and cut wood that is on the ground due to natural fall or forest and re management works.
Heavy penalties apply to anyone who cuts down a tree, living or dead.
Wood will be of varying sizes and may not be the same quality as the rewood sold by a commercial cutter.
A wheelbarrow may be needed to transport wood to the vehicle as it cannot leave tracks.
“Most people do the right thing and stick to the collection limits, but people should know authorised o cers from the conservation regulator, Parks Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria, will be patrolling to catch those who aren’t,” Mr Kennedy said.
Authorised o cers can issue nes of more than $769 to those caught breaking the rewood collection rules.
More serious o ending can result in maximum penalties of $9879 and/or 12 months in prison.
Authorised O cers can also seize chainsaws, trailers, vehicles, and equipment that’s used in the commission of o ending.
Community members can nd out more about collecting rewood and report any suspected illegal rewood collection by calling 136 186.
PROGRAM KICKS OFF: This year’s Alpine Valleys Community Leadership cohort, Laura Thompson, Tori Ferguson, Gemma Robinson, Lisa Vlacci, Haley Tudor-Harrop, Bhakti Dhamala, Georgia Saunders, Kara Chanter, Jen Allan, Kirsten Seeto, Owen Johnstone, Craig Ross, Andrew Manning, Lisa Logan and Daniel Flack (absent Allison O’Keefe and Ebony Mull) gathered at the Charles Sturt University Regional Study Centre recently.
Classifi ed Information
CLEMENTS, John McFadyen. Died suddenly on 22nd February 2025 in Castlemaine (late of Beechworth). Aged 91 years. A funeral service will be held for John in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Friday 7th March at 10:45am. He has now skied off into the sunset. . .
MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books, 11,875kms, RWC, $27,750. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.
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owned and operated www.northeastfunerals.com.au
2013 Toyota Hilux, manual, 169,700km, next service
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1AS8UR $31,000 ONO. Phone 0403 926 144
AUDI A4 TDI for sale, local car, 2013 Model, 102,000kms only, pristine condition, 1,000 KLMs per tank on a long trip, rego (1AA8DW), $20,000 firm. Phone Jurgen 0438 500 888.
TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 169,000km, 5spd manual, 4x4, full service history, no offroad, no accidents, black duck seat covers from new, new tyres, reg (1AL4YU), RWC, $32,000. Phone Allan 0400 541 599.
TOYOTA RAV 4 HYBRID GLX AWD. As new condition, bought 31/5/2024. Colour Glacier White, travelled 4620km, Extras include full exterior paint protect, full interior fabric protect, windows fittedwithdarkestlegal tint, floormats front and back, slimline plates CYF719. $51000. Phone Anne, 0407 065 776.
ROYAL Enfield 350 Hunter 2022, great learner’s bike, 3400km long rego, still under warranty, 2U4PN. Ph 0411 519 496 or 5721 3727.
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2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite, leather seats, services as per logbook. 4 cylinder 2.2lit Diesel, auto, 1WK 1KR,130,000kms, RWC, $26,350.00 ONO. Phone Maxwell K Batey 0419 547 308.
MITSUBISHI ASX 2017, 90000km, registered until June 2025 1OJ4NB, $15000. PH 0402 118 361
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2024
Community groups rally for Marathon challenge
BUT SPACES ARE LIMITED SO GET YOUR ENTRY IN NOW
ONE of the most popular competitions in the Wangaratta Marathon is the Community Challenge.
Everyone can help their team win just by nishing.
Every team entrant regardless of which event and how fast they run or walk scores a point.
The team with the most points wins a $1000 gi voucher at the Wholefoods Wangaratta shop, there’s also a runner’s up prize of a $500 gi voucher.
The Wholefoods Wangaratta team will also be handing out free organic fruit to marathon and fun run competitors.
Based on entries so far the competition is close with many teams rounding up their workmates or classmates to enter and build a strong team.
The community spirit for one of Wangaratta’s major sporting events is high. Anyone can join a team or create a team when entering.
Wholefoods Wangaratta is at 13 Baker Street with a second store in Wodonga and they have been keeping the region supplied with high quality healthy food and goods for more than a decade.
This is a family business, giving to the community which is what the event is all about race director Liam Delany said.
Mr Delaney has been impressed with all the local sponsors and support for the event.
“It really shows what a great city Wangaratta is, so many businesses and individuals have got in touch to help,” he said.
“The event also wouldn’t be possible without the many volunteers from the Wangaratta Lions Club.
“Be sure to thank the many marshals and other event sta out on course as you cross a road with care or enjoy a drink to get through your run or walk.
“The money donated to the Lions Club for their help will come back to the community again so it’s a great win for Wangaratta.”
Entries are looking strong with 400 participants being the maximum for each distance, the half marathon and 10km already past 50 per cent sold.
“With the many generous sponsors we are seeing some very strong runners enter but you’ve got to be in it to win it so get your entries in as soon as you can,” Mr Delaney said.
“Entries close Friday, 14 March at 5pm and there will be no on the day entries.
Number pick-up can be 2-5pm on Friday, March 14 at the Chronicle at 37 Rowan Street and Saturday 2-5pm at the Showgrounds start/ nish area and from 6am on Sunday morning before your event starts.
To enter just head to www. northeastsports.com.au.
HEALTH AND HAPPINESS: The O’Callaghan family (from le top) Jerry, Kacey and Luca, with (front) Remy, Arlo and Eva from Wholefoods Wangaratta are proud to be a major sponsor of the Wangaratta Marathon Community Challenge.
Beechworth Golf Club preparing to open 2025 season
By DYLAN POOL
Last Thursday we had a bit of a smaller turn out of 16 players for twilight on the Beechworth Golf Club back nine.
The winner with one under o the stick for 21 points plus ve for a total of 26 points was Willem Love.
Runner up taking home the Bridge Road Brewers voucher was Josh Carr with 23 points (17+6).
Ball winners were Dylan Pool 21, Rod Shaw 21 and Andy Croome 21.
Nearest the pin for the Beechworth Bakery voucher was Graeme Cordy and Kerin Rowbottom took home the Alpine Indigo Accounting six pack on the 17th.
Ben Ryder took home the cash for nearest chip on the 14th.
Just to add to his night Kerin Rowbottom took home the CC’s Quality Meats and Smokehouse voucher in the ra e.
On Sunday just one group of golfers fronted up for a stableford round.
The winner was ‘handbrake Harry’, Jamie Dolny with 34 points, 22 on the front and 12 on the back nine.
Runner up was Phil Pelgrim with 33 and Rod Shaw came third with 32.
Jamie claimed two nearest the pins, on the 7th and 10th. Don’t forget this Sunday is the club’s opening day for the 2025 Season.
We are playing a social ambrose.
Arrive 11:30am for 12noon hit o .
The club would love as many members and non members to attend and make a great day. Members are asked to please bring a plate of a ernoon tea.
Big chase ahead
Wanderers A grade need 225 against Magpies on Saturday to book their place in finals
BEECHWORTH’S A grade will have a chase on their hands as Wangaratta Magpies posted 224 on day one on a batting friendly Baarmutha Park.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
A er winning the toss and choosing to bat, the ‘Pies were under the pump when openers Dean Simmons (19 from 45) and Jarryd Wallace (eight from 31) departed with limited impact.
Tim Cogger then put Beechworth right on top at 4/42 dismissing Ollie Andrew for one, and Jack Davies for a three-ball duck in the same over.
Jarryd Wallace (eight from 31) put Winter-Irving broke the
225 required to win on Saturday, they will almost certainly be playing nals with just one round to play in the regular season.
In other grades, C grade had their match abandoned due to rain as the Wanderers were more than halfway through their run chase.
Gapsted batted rst at Stanley and went on to make 9/116 in their allocated overs.
But a formidable 93-run partnership put on by captain Cooper Matheson and Kyle Winter-Irving broke the Wanderers’ spirit and helped resurrect the innings.
First change bowler Ryan Niklaus proved hard to get away and was a standout with the ball nishing with gures of 4/17.
Dean Chambeyron (2/20), Darby West (1/19) and Dean Fitzpatrick (1/26) were also in the wickets.
Matheson played patiently for his 77 from 114 balls in an innings which included 11 boundaries, while Winter-Irving would anchor the rest of the day’s play, nishing unbeaten on 50 from 134.
In reply the Wanderers innings didn’t make the greatest of starts as they found themselves 2/22 following the wickets of Chris Nuck and Wiremu Andrews.
Darby West then went for 22 and the undefeated Beechworth found themselves in trouble at 5/50.
Handy lower-order runs from Jimmy Thewlis (24 from 32) and Nic Bonwick (19 from 14) would keep the total rising, while contributions from Rhys grant (seven from 13) and Kieran Radcli e (eight from 14) would see the 200-run mark surpassed.
see the 200-run mark surpassed.
Cogger was the standout performer for the Wanderers, nishing with 3/62 from his 17 overs, while Brenton Surrey (1/50 from 18 overs) and Henry Scalzo (2/20 from 10 overs) bowled economically.
Hamish Malsem and James Davidson were in the midst of steading the ship when rain hit and suspended play at 5/82 a er 20 overs and the match was abandoned.
This Saturday B grade return from a bye to take on Yarrawonga Mulwala while C grade face Greta White. with
If the Wanderers can chase the
SEAM UP: Tim Cogger was Beechworth’s leading wicket taker last weekend against Wangaratta, with figures of 3/62. PHOTO: Janet Watt