Blast from the past
Back to the late 1800s to celebrate 150 years of education
Beechworth Primary School captain Lily Dobson on Wednesday learned to use Copperplate – a writing style used in the late 1800s with a dip pen nib.
Lily was among students, teachers and staff who took a trip back in time dressing up in period costumes with old-fashioned activities at the school as well as in town to celebrate 150
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@
nemedia.com.au
years of education.
“We had to dip old style pens into the ink, use blotting paper, and then we could write,” she said.
“It’s a whole process, but I really
like the style of Copperplate as it’s fancy.
“Letters look very different and all swirly, but I love learning how to do it.”
Year six student Miles Brokensha said the class could see what it would have been like for students in 1875.
“Copper plate is very different from modern handwriting, and you have to make the ink work,” he said.
Lily said everyone looked amazing in their costumes with a great deal of effort put in.
“Being a school captain this year is special too because of the school’s 150-year anniversary,” she said.
School principal Susan McDonald said anniversary celebrations on the day was a step back in time to 1875.
■ Continued page 2
BACK IN THE OLD SCHOOL DAYS: Beechworth Primary School students Lily Barlow (back left), teacher Bethany James, students Naomi Burgess, Cade Stone, Miles Brokensha and principal Susan McDonald with (front left), Prosper Tomlinson Indianna Bockman, Billie Howlett and Clancy Kelly, at the step back in time event to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary.
PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley
Peter FitzSimons to launch compelling new book locally
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A well-known master of nonfiction storytelling delving into Australian history will be launching a compelling new book in Beechworth on Wednesday, 29 October at the Soldier’s Memorial Hall.
The author of several highly successful books Sydneybased Peter FitzSimons will talk about his latest work ‘The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop’.
Mr FitzSimons tells the extraordinary story of the heroic young Australian surgeon Colonel Sir Ernest Edward “Weary” Dunlop, a former POW, and leader of Allied prisoners on the brutal Thai Burma Railway.
His courage and leadership were a lifeline for thousands of Australian prisoners-ofwar on the infamous ThaiBurma Railway of World War 2. Weary is most famous for his leadership in prison camps in Indonesia, and then on the Thai-Burma Railway. He stood up for the weak, put himself in the firing line, and earned the respect of all those he encountered.
Mr FitzSimons recounts of Weary’s World War 2 experi-
ences are harrowing but capture Weary’s humanity.
Weary Dunlop was born in Wangaratta, grew up at ‘Summerlea’ on the outskirts of Shepparton and attended Benalla High School.
He won a £10 scholarship to study at the Melbourne Pharmacy College excelling in his studies gaining First Class Honours followed by a scholarship to study medicine at the University of Melbourne where he graduated with a Master of Surgery.
Weary Dunlop also made a debut playing for the Australia men’s national rugby union team, the Wallabies in 1932.
Awarded a scholarship at the Royal College of Surgeons in England, Weary Dunlop had embarked on the SS Ormonde bound for London in 1938 with Word War 2 declared the following year.
Signing up, he was commissioned a captain in the Australian Army Medical Corps (AAMC) and sent to the Middle East, serving in Palestine, Greece, Crete, Egypt and Tobruk then sailed to Java with 3000 others to fight the Japanese.
Post World War 2 Weary Dunlop worked at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
specialised clinics for returned soldiers.
Mr FitzSimons said his passion of history telling began from growing up with family connections to World War 2.
“I wanted to tell stories
Back to the late 1800s to celebrate 150 years of education
■ From front page
“We can experience what the school might have been like back in the day when it was first opened,” she said.
“People will see our students all over the town today, visiting and walking the streets in their costumes and visiting various venues, places and shops.”
Year 5/6 school teacher
Bethany James said events planned for the day included using old slate boards and having old math lessons involving pounds, shillings and pence.
Others included visiting the Burke Museum for a series of activities, as well as the police paddock.
“We’re going to pan for gold and we’re going to go back in time at the museum,” she said.
“Beechworth Bakery has donated scones for the kids, the Beechworth Sweet Company are giving us little old-fashioned bags of boiled sweets that would have been an appropriate treat in 1875 and Beechworth Pharmacy has got a little display
AUSSIE HERO: Peter FitzSimons’s latest work, The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop, the story of a heroic young Australian surgeon on the brutal Thai Burma Railway.
AUTHOR TALK: The author of several highly successful books Sydney-based Peter FitzSimons will talk about his latest work in Beechworth.
lar for Australians and as a narrator and wanted to have the stories in the present tense bringing the reader into the story,” he said.
He said with his first successful book about Nancy Wake he then embarked on
the reliving of past Australian history with his books.
“Weary Dunlop was a beacon of humanity, and I loved how he said to Australian prisoners ‘we’re going to look after each other’.
Mr FitzSimons said when burying oneself in diaries and life documentation, the writer gets to know their subjects.
“Weary Dunlop was extraordinary, and I loved him as a man,” he said.
“He also played in the 16th game of the Wallabies against the All Blacks, and I was pleased to be playing in the same position when I was in the Wallabies team.”
Mr FitzSimons said it took about a year to write the book with the help of three researchers.
With a love of Beechworth, he said he looked forward to being back in the town.
Mr FitzSimons has been a journalist for the past 39 years and columnist with the Sydney Morning Herald and the Sun Herald.
Among his books are Breaker Morant, Burke and Wills, Monash’s Masterpiece, Kokoda, Ned Kelly and Gallipoli, as well as biographies of such notable Australians as Sir Douglas Mawson, Nancy Wake and John Eales. The event at the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall at 101 Ford St takes place between 6pm and 8pm.
“Eighty years later people remember and revere the life of Weary Dunlop,” Mr FitzSimons said.
Prosper Tomlinson
and Ralph Bird tried their hand with an old-fashioned writing skill when Beechworth Primary School stepped back in time on Wednesday.
of old medicines for us as well.
“Beechworth Toys and Collectibles has donated games for us to play at school too.”
Ms James said the community and businesses have been incredibly supportive of the school with its celebrations.
“We are so lucky to have such a wonderful community supporting our kids with this amazing experience that I hope they will
remember forever,” she said.
“Students have put so much effort into their costumes as have all the teachers and staff.”
Ms McDonald also acknowledged and thanked the Burke Museum for its partnership with the school to prepare for the Wednesday event including the set up in the police paddocks with activities for the students as well as in the museum.
She also thanked Beechworth Bakery, the confectionary shop with little surprises for the students, the toy shop and other business supporters.
Ms McDonald said the community is invited to help celebrate the school’s milestone at its fete on Saturday (tomorrow), 18 October from 11am to 2pm with lots of activities.
FUN:
(left)
NEW ‘OLD’ SKILL: Students Billie Howlett (front left) with Lily Barlow and sitting behind Lanna Quale (left), Amelia Novak and Lily Jobson had fun learning an old style of writing.
STEP BACK IN TIME: Beechworth Primary School students, teachers and staff had fun turning the pages back to 1875 on Wednesday.
By CORAL COOKSLEY
Ducking dementia
A health professional delivered a captivating talk about ‘Ducking Dementia’ to a near 60-strong audience at Beechworth Library last week.
A medical practitioner for more than three decades, LifeVest’s Dr Rebecca McGowan has a passion for preventative health with a focus on dementia.
Dr McGowan provided practical advice for brain health to prevent cognitive decline, enhance memory and brain function as people age while also speaking about key dementia characteristics.
Dr McGowan also explained different types of dementia – a common brain condition affecting mood, memory, thinking and behaviour – with the most common type being Alzheimer’s disease.
The former GP co-founded LifeVest and works as the medical director on a mission to empower people to take charge of their health.
According to a report released early last month by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) dementia is now the leading cause of death for Australians.
Dementia has been the leading cause of death for women in Australia.
Dr McGowan said one in three women in Australia are likely to be impacted by dementia.
The expert said evidencebased information indicates at least 15 different actions can be undertaken to reduce dementia risk.
“We also know that up to 50 per cent of all dementia cases may be prevented by introducing good healthy habits.
“What’s good for the heart is also generally good for the brain.
“If people are concerned about dementia, they should talk to their GP about some of the things they can do to bring their risk down.
“Some of these include lowering blood pressure as well as fats and sugar levels in their
“We know people can implement them in their daily life and my passion is to help people understand what they can do to reduce their risk,” she said.
blood but also getting an assessment at the local the Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS) in Albury.”
Among others are nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress reduction as well as vision and hearing checks.
“It’s never too early and it’s never too late to bring in the prevention,” Dr McGowan said.
The presenter also requested information provided on the night be shared to family, friends, other people as well as between generations
as dementia and prevention needs to be widely known.
Beechworth’s Jennie Gilliver said the engaging talk had been well-presented.
“Many people don’t think enough about their own health and Dr McGowan has given us a greater awareness of what can happen,” she said.
The North East’s Dr McGowan said with her business partner and LifeVest’s CEO Martin Prebble from Beechworth, the pair undertook health promo -
tion across Australia.
“We’ve been working in Beechworth for more than 10 years,” she said.
Mr Prebble said Dr McGowan’s talks with humour and knowledge covered many subjects while making information simple to understand.
“Not enough people, know about the 15 things that you can do to help prevention at any age and dementia can tackle people in their 20s and 30s as well,” he said.
Beechworth librarian Julie
said the session had been booked out as well as others around the shire.
“Providing reliable and trusted health information at the libraries is really important,” she said.
“Medical misinformation is a big problem, and the library wants to make sure we have accessible programs with quality information.”
The free event organised by Indigo Shire Council was also held at Chiltern, Rutherglen and Yackandandah libraries too.
Improved workspace for community op shop
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A recent upgrade in the Quercus Beechworth Community Op Shop has meant a streamlined operation in its sorting room.
Quercus Beechworth operations coordinator Heather Jameson said the valuable upgrade had been funded with a generous $3165 grant from the Community Bank Beechworth & District (Bendigo Bank).
“The sorting room is the hardworking heart of our operation at the Op Shop,” she said.
“This project focused on improving storage, organisation, and safety for our volunteers.
“We have purchased new trolleys, storage tubs, and accessible shelving to assist our dedicated team that sorts an abundance of donations received each week.
“Improvements have already made a big difference as items can now be stored neatly and accessed easily,
we can see where things are, and it makes it quicker to pick things up,” she said.
“This makes a big difference to the store.
“If we know where things are and what we have in stock, when people ask us for something, it’s easy for easier for us to respond to their needs.
“If the store looks good, we feel good as volunteers, too,” she said.
Community Bank Beechworth & District branch manager Theresa Cowan said the bank is proud to see the profits from customers’ everyday banking being reinvested back into the community.
reducing clutter and creating a more functional workspace.”
Ms Jameson said the upgrade also addressed important key occupational health and safety considerations by improving manual handling practices and reducing trip hazards.
“At Quercus and our Com-
munity Op Shop, we remain committed to maintaining a positive and supportive working environment for our volunteers,” she said.
“The sorting room is a busy space, and the sheer volume of donations including a growing amount of unsellable clothing and household items can often
be overwhelming.
“These challenges have strengthened our focus on waste reduction and textile recycling, as we continue working towards more sustainable and environmentally conscious operations.
“A heartfelt thank you to the bank for recognising the value of local, volunteer-led
initiatives and helping us continue to make a positive impact in the Beechworth community.”
For Quercus Beechworth volunteer of eight years, Judi Neuman, the grant means a lot.
“It also keeps the space neater, it’s easier to access things, and it also means that
“Supporting projects like the Quercus Beechworth Op Shop upgrade is what community banking is all about,” she said.
“It creates practical improvements that make a real difference for local volunteers, strengthens community connections, and help ensure the sustainability of valued local services.”
SORTED: Quercus Beechworth volunteer Judi Neuman with one of the many items originally in the sorting room.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
Heather Jameson (left), volunteer Judi Neuman and customer services officer Emma McDonnell from Community Bank Beechworth & District (Bendigo Bank) at the Op Shop on Tuesday.
ALL EARS: Dr Rebecca McGowan delivered an informative talk about dementia and prevention to a near 60-strong audience last week.
ENJOYED: Beechworth’s Margaret Prebble (left), Lisa O’Connor, Dr Rebecca McGowan and Janet Lucas at last week’s talk held at the Beechworth Library. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley
A love of Beechworth
Laura Ball
Laura Ball was born in Canberra, then moved to London post studies, then back to Melbourne and finally Beechworth.
“My family and I have been here for seven months and loving it. A far cry from the traffic that is inner Melbourne,” she said.
What do you do workwise?
I am the accommodation manager at The Brewers House in Beechworth. The Brewers House is gorgeous boutique accommodation on Finch Street and was the original site of George Billsons Malthouse - connected to the Last St Brewery. We have four gorgeously renovated suites and beautiful gardens to enjoy.
What brought you to your role/ career?
My husband and I both took on roles with Last St Brewery. The jobs came up at the perfect time for our family, so we packed up our home and moved north with our two little girls.
What do you love about your work?
I love having the ability to interact with people from all walks of life. You learn something from everyone you meet.
What do you do in the community?
Unfortunately, I haven’t yet had a chance to volunteer in the community, but now we’re settled and coming out of the depths of winter I’m looking forward to finding some opportunities to give back.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
Being a working mum of two little ones, childcare is at the top of my priority list. We’ve enrolled one
of our girls into the Beechworth Kinder program however the gorgeous childcare centre next door is at capacity and has a very long waitlist which means I’m having to travel to Myrtleford for our youngest’s care during the week.
What would you do to solve change or improve that situation?
Thankfully I believe there is a solution underway or waiting for council approval which will mean the Beechworth Childcare can expand their student placement offering and hopefully ease the waitlist congestion.
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
Having two young girls in today’s world we are highly acute to the effects that social media is having on both children’s development and their mental health. We try reducing screen time as much as possible and rather get our girls out interacting with people in the community via the library’s storytime sessions, the park or at the local coffee shop.
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?
Without sounding too much like the millennial I am, the person I’d love to meet and show around the shire would have to be American
singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. She’s been in the media a lot lately, but I really admire her character, her craft and her dedication to it even with all the setbacks. I think she would love the shire and all the local stores and beautiful architecture and scenery. I’m sure she would also love to meet some of the amazing artists we have here.
What book are you reading?
Dr Suess’ complete series and the Star-Belly Sneetches is a current favourite in our home. When I find the time though, the Stephanie Hazeltine fiction series is on my list. The Melbourne-based author writes page-turning stories about complex and compelling women.
Have your say on proposed investment plans and prices
The Essential Services Commission (ESC) is seeking community feedback on how much North East Water (NEW) is proposing to charge its customers for water services over the next five years, as part of the commission’s 2026 water price review.
Under NEWS’s pricing proposal, the typical household bill for its owner-occupier customers would increase annually by about 5.5 per cent (before inflation), increasing by $61 in year one and by $339 over the fiveyear price period.
The typical household bill for renters would increase annually by about two per cent (before inflation), increasing by $10 in year one and by $55 over the fiveyear price period.
The commission issues price determinations that approve the maximum prices water businesses may charge customers.
These prices are based on an assessment of the efficient costs water businesses need to deliver services, including high-quality drinking water, reliable and secure supplies, and meeting environmental standards while supporting a growing population.
The proposed prices would take effect from 1 July 2026.
Anyone who would like to have their say on the submission has until 12 December 2025 to comment via the Engage Victoria website.
The commission will consider community feedback and assess the submission against a legal framework set out in the Water Industry Regulatory Order, and the commission’s Performance, Risk, Engagement, Management and Outcomes (PREMO) framework.
The commission will issue a final price decision in June 2026.
From now until December
STANLEY ATHENAEUM
‘Home Sweet Home’. A new Stanley exhibition about the houses of Stanley being held at the Stanley Community Hub. Open every Monday to Saturday during Post Office hours. For more information phone 0458 606 922 or email stanleyathenaeum@gmail.com
Saturday 18 October (tomorrow)
BEECHWORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL FETE
Celebrating 150 years. 11am – 2pm. Music, games, history, sausage sizzle, competitions, school tour. BYO picnic lunch. All welcome. 17 Junction Road.
Friday 17 October – Saturday 25 October
CHILTON LIONS AMATEUR PERFORMERS (CLAP)
‘Dusty Dreams’. A lively and heartfelt musical comedy, set in the heart of Chiltern at the local op shop. Locally written by CLAP’s creative team. Star Theatre.
36 Main Street. Visit https:// www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1391751 for details and tickets.
Sunday 19 October
RUTHERGLEN AGRICULTURAL SHOW
Free fun family event. Gates open 8.30am – 4.30pm. Huge variety of events and activities. Rutherglen Showgrounds 171 High Street. Visit www. rutherglenagshow.com.au for the program and schedule
YACKANDANDAH
GARDEN CLUB
Open Gardens: 10am – 3pm. Three gardens at various locations. Visit https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1416053 for information.
YACKANDANDAH
LIONS CLUB MARKET
9am - 1pm. Produce and products ranging from olives, hand-crafted soaps and candles, wines, plants, clothing, jewellery and more. There’s something for everyone. Stroll through the Artisan Makers Market and uncover handcrafted treasures. 13 Wellsford Street
Wednesday 22 October
QUERCUS BEECHWORTH
5.30pm - 6.30pm. Free seminar by Commonwealth Bank to stay safe online. Visit https:// quercusbeechworth.org.au/thisterm-at-quercus/ to RSVP.
Friday 24 October –
Sunday 26 October
ASYLUMFEST
Three-day horror book and pop culture festival held within historic Mayday Hills. Visit www. asylumfest.com.au for more information and the program. Saturday 25 October –Sunday 26 October
BIRDS OF A FEATHER ARTISANS MARKET
Saturday 10am to 4pm and 12pm to 5pm on Sunday. Starting off the Christmas season preparations by offering unique, personal gifts and homewares - original artworks, textile homewares, children’s clothing, wood carved products and printed products. Old Chiltern Courthouse, 58-60 Main St.
TREE CHANGE: Laura Ball with her family loves living in Beechworth away from inner Melbourne traffic.
The Merry Wives of Windsor will make a merry matinee at Milawa
Lyster Opera, now in its milestone 10th year of touring country Victoria, proudly unveils its latest production: The Merry Wives of Windsor, a spirited operatic adaptation of William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy.
And for all supporters of live theatre in the North East, the chance to see this memorable show at the Milawa Hall at 2pm on Saturday, 18 October should not be missed.
Composed by Otto Nicolai in 1849 and infused with the wit and warmth of Elizabethan England, The Merry Wives of Windsor is a comic opera in three acts with a German libretto by Salomon Hermann Mosenthal that promises an afternoon of laughter, music, and theatrical delight.
Directed by Daniel Sinfield, this production brings together a cast of seasoned performers and emerging talent to breathe new life into Shakespeare’s timeless characters.
Sinfield’s direction blends historical authenticity with modern relatability, exploring themes of love, jealousy, and social mischief through a comedic lens that resonates with today’s audiences.
The opera follows the misadventures of Sir John Falstaff, a pompous knight who attempts
to seduce two married women, Mrs Fluth and Mrs Reich, for financial gain.
The clever wives uncover his scheme and orchestrate a series of hilarious pranks to teach him a lesson.
Meanwhile, romantic entanglements and mistaken identities ripple through the town, culminating in a jubilant finale that celebrates wit, loyalty, and love.
The production’s visual storytelling is enhanced by period costumes and evocative imagery, creating a rich theatrical experience that transports audiences to the heart of Elizabethan England.
The opera follows the Singspiel tradition, combining musical numbers with spoken dialogue, similar to modern musical theatre.
Nicolai, a child prodigy from Prussia and co-founder of the Vienna Philharmonic, tragically passed away just days after the opera’s premiere, making this work his most celebrated legacy.
The tour is already in progress and has had hugely successful performances in Moe, Inglewood and Castlemaine.
Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours today for Milawa on October 18 at http://lysteropera. com.au/coming-soon
REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIME FORUM
A MERRY MATINEE: Comedy, music, melodrama galore in Lyster Opera’s The Merry Wives of Windsor at Milawa Hall at 2pm on Saturday, 18 October.
Jam-packed local event program for this month’s Seniors’ Festival
By CORAL COOKSLEY
This year’s Seniors’ Festival with the theme ‘Connect, Create, Celebrate’ is in full swing with a jam-packed program of events throughout the month of October.
Indigo Shire Council delivers the festival in partnership with the Victorian government, local businesses and community organisations.
Indigo Shire Council’s community development officer Kate O’Toole said the festival is for people over 55 years of age.
With a huge variety of events, Ms O’Toole said council wanted to make sure there was something of appeal to almost everyone.
“One of the ways we have ensured that the events are what people want to see is by allocating the Victorian state government funding to the Indigo Seniors Grant program so that the communities can run the program,” she said.
“That’s why we have such a diverse array of events this year, in addition to programming through our libraries and historic precincts.”
Ms O’Toole said everyone is looking for interesting, free, or low-cost things to do.
“This can be even more im-
portant for people who are socially isolated or who don’t have a lot of connection to their community,” she said.
“Getting out to events, helps connect people with similar interests – from line dancing to croquet, from Wahgunyah to Tangambalanga.
“It’s a chance to get arty, get active, get engaged and connect, create and celebrate this month.”
Among a huge variety of events are Beechworth Health Service’s Garden Tour, a Rutherglen Baby Boomers Ballet, a Yackandandah Reclaimed Jewellery and a Beechworth creative art workshop with Lisa Bishop.
Others include The Gold and the Bold at The Rutherglen State Gold Battery, a talk and tour about the Rutherglen Wine Bottle at the iconic site and the Yackandandah Women’s Shed subsidised lunch at the Yackandandah Hotel for an afternoon of trivia.
Seniors are also invited to Beechworth Primary School’s event celebrating 150 years of education.
Visit www.indigoshire.vic. gov.au/Community/Community-events/Indigo-SeniorsFestival-2025 for event information including dates, times and registrations.
MASSIVE CLEARANCE
Beechworth makes country’s retirement hit list
Beechworth has been named as one of Australia’s most desirable retirement locations according to Citro’s 2025 retirement guide.
The guide of the country’s top 50 retirement locations, released at the start of October, blends hard facts (house prices, healthcare access, liveability data) with the softer lifestyle factors that matter when people make a life-changing move.
It features a diverse mix of regional towns and coastal communities located across the country based on affordability trends, lifestyle, transport infrastructure, healthcare access and amenity.
While Beechworth did not make the top 10, it would be the only North East town to
make the list and one of nine locations in Victoria.
The guide describes Beechworth as the home to history, heritage and plenty of restaurants and wineries, highlighting its “well-preserved” gold rush architecture, cultural living and active community.
Australia’s top retirement location was voted as Orange in NSW, followed by Rosebud in Victoria.
AMP research revealed Australians aged 40 and over are worried about being able to afford their ideal lifestyle when it comes to retirement – with three in five saying they were concerned, rising to seven in 10 for Australian women aged 40+ compared to half of Australian men in the same cohort.
More than one in three Australians aged 50+ are considering a relocation in retirement, and nearly four in 10 downsizers are in regional areas.
Citro managing director Toby Ellis said this year’s findings spoke to the challenges and concerns that many Australians aged 40 and over face when it comes to life after work.
“Australians over 40 are asking smart questions about where they’ll spend the next chapter of their lives,” he said.
“It’s about matching the practical – like affordability and healthcare – with the aspirational – like lifestyle and connection – to find the right place to really thrive in retirement.”
ARTY: Seniors have had a ball with creative classes as part of the Seniors’ Festival program.
PHOTO: Indigo Shire Council
Rutherglen Agricultural Show set for a family fun day
By CORAL COOKSLEY
The annual Rutherglen Agricultural Show on Sunday from 8.30am to 4.30pm is set to be another fabulous fun day with a jam-packed program full of events and activities.
Indigo Shire’s only agricultural show is in its 135th year.
Rutherglen Agricultural Society Inc president Greg Lumby said a new addition to this year’s free show is the Young Farmer Cropping competition for under 18s in the produce section.
“More than 30 trays of oat seedlings collected and grown since around early August will be judged with photos on Sunday,” he said.
Another is ‘Dr Hubble’s Bubbles’ – a performer who has delighted people all around the world as well as across Australia – will roam and entertain the kids and adults alike.
scarecrow entries received were from Rutherglen’s CFA, Garden Club and the SES.
ed such as local school students’ amazing artwork.
CHOP: Contestants in last year’s Morris of Rutherglen Wood Chop competition.
WINNER: Ten-year-old Jed Williams with his kelpie “OJ” that won the John Williams Memorial Dog Jump at 2.5 metres last year.
by a Dr Hubble Bubble stage show and the Jack O’Keefe Memorial Pet Parade.
A tent pegging competition will also be staged featuring the Australian Women’s team followed by another Rutherglen CFA Fire demonstration.
Heaps of entertainment throughout the day includes face painting for the kids, showbags, side show alley, an interactive site by Black Snake Productions, an animal nursery, carriage rides led by Clydesdales, and market stalls.
The Henderson Pavillion will showcase poultry, pigeon, chicken, sheep, cattle displays and more.
Favourite activities kicked off last year such as the scarecrow competition with its colourful creations scattered around the showground is back again with the winner picked by a ‘People’s Choice Award’.
Mr Lumby said among
“It’s gone gangbusters,” he said.
“The home brew competition started last year too and is also running again this year.”
Mr Lumby said among many displays by local schools have again been well-support-
“The Rutherglen High School cattle handling team will team up again with Saint Francis of Assisi Primary School students from Baranduda in a cattle-led competition too,” he said.
“The wood chopping will be a huge drawcard again this year as well.”
“More than 100 chooks will also be on display with some having their feathers coloured.
“It’s really taken off since COVD and has become quite a novelty event,”
At 9am a Rutherglen CFA fire demonstration in the showring takes place, followed by a Murray River Calisthenics demonstration and
the Junior Cattle Parade with cattle judging.
Others include the John Williams Memorial Dog High Jump, the Showgoer and Tiny Tots’ competition and ‘The Great Teams Challenge’.
At noon axes start to swing in the showring with the Morris of Rutherglen Wood Chop as well as a hand-held shearing demonstration followed
With a dedicated committee of around 12 volunteers, Mr Lumby said young people joining the team with new ideas and initiatives have done a wonderful job.
“We’ve had great support from sponsors too,” he said.
Mr Lumby said the focus is on retaining a traditional agricultural show as a great community event.
“It’s going to be a great day,” he said.
Visit www.rutherglenagshow.com.au for details of the full program.
PHOTOS: Rutherglen Agricultural Society Inc.
Help to find cheapest fuel pump prices
A new fuel finder feature will soon be available on the Service Victoria app to help motorists compare pump prices from fuel retailers across the state.
The Victorian government says fuel retailers statewide are complying with mandatory fuel price reporting regulations now in effect and set to save Victorian motorists money at the pump.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Nick Staikos, said almost 1300 retailers are now onboard across the state and ready to report their fuel prices.
The retailers are now required to report their fuel prices through a new fuel finder feature which will be available soon on the Service Victoria app.
Minister Staikos said mandatory real-time fuel price reporting requires all fuel retailers to report their prices on the new fuel finder feature, giving Victorian drivers the information they need to find their area’s most affordable fuel price.
He said Victorian fuel retailers must now be registered with Service Victoria and report their fuel prices whenever they change, with penalties applying for those who are non-compliant.
Consumer Affairs Victoria is responsible for ensuring fuel retailers are aware of their obligations and are supported to comply with the new regulations.
Inspectors from Consumer Affairs Victoria have been out across the state visiting service stations and educating and informing their owners and staff about their obligations and will continue to monitor compliance and conduct site inspections throughout Victoria.
For more information, visit consumer.vic.gov.au/fuelprice-reporting
Authors to be talk of the town as writers’ festival returns to Mount Beauty
Renowned authors will be the talk of the town this Saturday at the annual Mount Beauty Writers Festival.
Mountain Monk Brewers will again host the one-day event, which features a stellar line-up of local and celebrity scribes across most writing genres.
Festival founder Fay Mason said she expects more than 200 people from across the country to enjoy the face to face interactions with the talented authors as they discuss their latest literary works.
“This is our fourth event and it continues to go from strength to strength,” Ms Mason said.
“In addition to the author talks we have also received around 50 entries for our Mount Beauty Youth Short Story Competition, with winners to be announced at 12 noon.”
Former Aussie Wallaby star, turned one of Australia’s most suc-
cessful media presenters and columnist, Peter FitzSimons, leads the author talks, set to discuss ‘The Legend of Albert Jacka’: an unforgettable story of bravery and sacrifice by one extraordinary soldier on the shores of Gallipoli and battlefields of France.
Chris Hammer, author of the internationally bestselling Martin Scarsden series: ‘Scrublands’, ‘Silver’ and ‘Trust’, is set to discuss ‘The River’: a non fiction account of the Murray Darling Basin, plus his freshly released fiction: ‘Legacy’.
Author, screenwriter and producer, Courtney Collins, whose first novel, ‘The Burial’, was published in 10 countries and shortlisted for prizes including the Nita B Kibble Literary Award, NSW Premier’s Literary Awards and the Stella Prize, will discuss her second novel, ‘Bird’.
Ashley Kalagian-Blunt, the number one bestselling author of ‘Dark Mode’, which was shortlisted for the 2024 ABIA General Fiction Book of the Year, the Ned Kelly Awards for Best Crime Fiction and the Danger Award for Debut Fiction, will speak about her latest thrillers: ‘Cold Truth’ and ‘Like, Follow, Die’.
Italian-Australian singer-songwriter, guitarist, recording artist, music journalist and author, Joe Matera, will speak about ‘Louder Than Words: Beyond The Backstage Pass’.
Meanwhile, in his compelling memoir, ‘The Bank Robber’s Boy’, Peter Norris recounts the powerful love and loyalty which bound him to his father, Clarence ‘Clarry’ Norris, a notorious bank robber and exploring a profound inner struggle between the allure of the underworld and the desire for normalcy.
Local author of ‘Clouds and Sunshine’, Ruth Pollock, will speak about her new book ‘Hard Women’: a biography of Ruth’s three generations of family members.
The Mount Beauty Writers Festival at Mountain Monk Brewers runs from 11am to 5:30pm.
Talks will run for 30 minutes, with an extra 15 minutes for Q&As, before a 15 minute break where attendees can drop into the onsite festival bookshop, have books signed and recharge with self-serve tea and coffee available.
The festival is sponsored by AGL, Bendigo Bank and Alpine Shire and supported by Mt Beauty Lions Club, Mountain Monk Brewers, Pizzini Wines, Alpine FM and Bright Bookshop.
For more details and tickets go to the website: mountbeautywritersfestival.com.
WRITE YOUR WAY TO THE TOP: Last year’s Mount Beauty Youth Writing Competition Winner Florence Roberts accepted her prize from festival founder Fay Mason. TO: Phoebe Morgan
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 What is a low cushioned footstool (7)
8 Name the sale in which the goods are sold to the highest bidder (7)
9 What is the act of saving property from destruction (7)
10 Which graduated glass tube is used for dispensing small quantities of liquid (7)
11 What is an immature form of a frog (7)
12 Name timber that is sawn or split into planks, boards, etc (6)
14 Which other term describes jail (6)
18 Which woman serves drinks in a hotel (7)
21 Name a barbed, spearlike missile used in catching whales (7)
22 Which blue mineral is an ore of copper (7)
23 To emit rays, is to do what (7)
24 What is the period between sunrise and sunset (7)
DOWN
1 Name an item of apparatus used in weightlifting (7)
2 What is the fruit of the oak (5)
3 What is a permanently attached part of a house, etc (7)
4 Name an alternative term for attacks (6)
Letters
Some
Create remaining
5 To be covered with thin slabs of baked clay, is to be what (5)
6 What are pieces of grassland called (7)
7 Which term describes one’s sister’s daughter (5)
13 Name the planet nearest the sun (7)
15 Which implements are used to clean gun barrels (7)
16 Name nurses for children (7)
E-QUATIONS
using clues in centre
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To stick fast, is to do what (6)
18 What is the growth of hair on the face of an adult male (5)
19 Which term gives evidence that proves one was elsewhere (5)
20 What do we call a wanderer (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 OBJURGATE (a) To bind by oath (b) To chide (c) To darken
2 QUAGMIRE
(a) An extinct S African wild ass (b) Wet, boggy ground (c) A state of perplexity
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:
Book of photographs (5)
Citizens’ force (7)
Fruit: rock... (5)
Headware (3)
Long-boards (7)
Missing in action (3)
Nimbus (abb) (3)
President of the USA (5)
Stringed instrument (5)
Suffix: having (3)
Open Garden
DESIGNER van, built 2013, double axle, new tyres and brakes, toilet and shower combined, aircon, double water tanks, 90L fridge, excellent condition, $40,000 ONO. Ph 0460 582 811.
Aged Care Manager
Full details are available on our web site: www.hrsa.com.au
or contact Jo Lowday on: 0400 158 155
Applications can be made online or sent by email to: hrsa@hrsa.com.au
Applications close: 2 November 2025
Facilities Manager
– 2026 School Year Bogong Campus
• 27 January to 18 December 2026
• 38 hours per week
Further information is available at www.vic.gov.au/schools-jobs or by contacting Roger Blackwell – Principal on 0417 202 578.
Closing date for applications: October 22, 2025
classifi
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677 EMPLOYMENT
MYRTLEFORD
SKI CLUB LODGE MANAGERS 2025/26
Live and work in the heart of Falls Creek, at one of the resort’s founding club lodges, Myrtleford Ski Club.
The Lodge Manager position is available for the 2025/26 summer and/or winter 2026 season. This contract position to manage a 38-bed lodge is ideally suited to a couple (individuals are also invited to enquire).
It requires a love of Alpine life, energy and excellent communication, organisation and people skills. Prior experience in a similar position, venue management and knowledge of the resort is preferred. Ensuite accommodation and attractive remuneration is offered and flexibility for additional employment may be negotiated.
Responsibilities include:
• Guest services - fostering a welcoming communal lodge atmosphere, ensuring members/guests complete their allocated duties before departure, overseeing adherence to Club Constitution, Standing Rules and policies, providing resort knowledge
• Management of the day-to-day operation and presentation of the Lodge: including cleaning, laundry, maintenance, and stock levels
Proof of the following is also required:
• Working with Children Check
• First Aid Certification
• Valid driver’s license
• Bookings management; reservations including payments and refunds, optimising occupancy
• Communication: timely and professional interaction with members, guests and external stakeholders, monthly reports to Committee, in-resort representation of the Club
• Membership Subscription: managing invoicing and payments, maintaining member data and confidentiality
• National Police Check.
• Applicants will be required to provide 3 referees.
This is a fantastic hands-on and unique role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Send your application, including cover letter and CV to myrtsec@gmail.com. Applications close: Friday 14 November 2025.
Advertising Account Manager Print and Digital Media
Who are we looking for?
North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to join our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.
The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.
Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.
The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new
An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.
The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising
A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.
North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent familyowned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.
If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:
Tennis Roadshow and AO trophy to visit Yackandandah
Following the launch of the Sustainable Regional Tennis project, regional Victoria is set to host the Sustainable Regional Tennis (SRT) Roadshow.
The project has already seen early success, with momentum continuing to build to support volunteers, coaches, and clubs across Victoria.
The Tennis Victoria team will hit the road, travelling to 12 locations across regional Victoria, visiting Yackandandah Tennis Club on Sunday, 19 October, as part of the Roadshow.
Those in attendance will experience on and off-court upskilling opportunities with Tennis Victoria’s leaders in coaching, programs, advocacy and more.
As well information on new and expanded participation programs – Hot Shots (Volunteer Delivered) and Cardio (Volunteer Delivered).
Tennis Victoria CEO, Kim Kachel said through the Sustainable Regional Tennis project, we’re redefining what it means to volunteer.
“This roadshow is about creat-
ing supported pathways for people to get involved in tennis whether as a coach, club volunteer, or community champion,” she said.
“By covering program fees, offering training, and backing volunteers every step of the way, we’re making sure regional tennis has the people and programs it needs to thrive.”
The roadshow will run from 9am – 1pm, providing opportunities to upskill volunteers and keep tennis thriving.
Local community champion and cardio superstar Louise Thornton will be there alongside new head coach for the Hot Shots program Patrick Cartwright who will be inviting volunteers to coach alongside him.
The day will kick off with a Hot Shots Tennis session, followed by a Cardio Tennis session, and the opportunity to hear from special Tennis Australia guest Luke Saville - former pro player, Australian Davis Cup team representative and Olympian - who will do a Q&A and provide coaching to kids.
There will also be a community
BBQ with live music, community stalls and activities for the kids, making it a fantastic day for the entire community.
This event is extra special as Yackandandah Tennis Club is also one of the AO (Australian Open) on the Road trophy tour locations. Community champions can finish their session with an early taste of Grand Slam excitement and get a glimpse of the prestigious Norman Brookes Challenge Cup and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup - the Australian Open trophies.
As part of AO on the Road, Australian tennis legend John Fitzgerald has been attending the events around regional Victoria.
“AO on the Road is a terrific way to share the excitement of the Australian Open with rural and regional communities,” he said.
“It’s also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the fantastic tennis clubs and volunteers across Victoria who contribute so much to the sport.
For more information about the SRT project and the roadshow, visit tennis.com.au/vic.
Junior golfers show the way at Beechworth
By DYLAN POOL
What a fantastic afternoon for our first weekly junior golf on Monday.
We had 25 kids at last count ranging from 6 years old to 16 years old.
We hope the kids all had a great time and come back again next week.
Of course if you missed this week that’s ok you can turn up any week. There’s no commitment.
Big thanks to all the members that helped out including Rod, John, Croomey, Andrew, Kelly, Cat, Yogi and Dylan.
Without all your help this couldn’t of happened.
Next week we will have a sausage sizzle after golf, so if anyone has any mates that missed this week, bring them along.
Golf, BBQ and a drink. You can’t go wrong.
This week’s ice cream vouchers thanks to Beechworth Ice Creamery went to Luca, Hugh and Wolfie.
There were players out last Sunday for the October Monthly Medal.
Jamie Donly had a day out winning the Monthly Medal with 64 nett of a 16 handicap.
The in-form Jackson Wells (15) came runner up with 66 nett.
Ball winner was Andy Croome (13) 67.
Next to follow were Dylan Pool (3) 70, Zane Howard (20) 71, Andrew Field (0) 71, Dave Clark (14) 72, Xavier Palamarczuk (4) 72, Dean Howard (12) 73, Phil Pelgrim (16) 74, Rod Shaw (21) 45, George Ward (22) 76.
Nearest the pins went to Andy Croome on the 7th,
Dylan Pool on the 10th and Jamie Dolny on the 17th.
Club Championships dates for the men are as follows.
Also the Medal of Medals will be held on the first ships on 9 November.
Sunday November 9th.
Sunday November 16th.
Sunday November 30th.
Shaky start for Wanderers’ A grade
■ From back page
“Kayde Surrey and Clancy Ellet are still to come in which is huge.
“Grub’s keeping behind the stumps was first class - he is probably the best keeper in the competition although he reckons he hates doing it. “
The Wanderers turn their attention to Rovers United Bruck this weekend, with the reigning premiers still the benchmark side in the competition.
While they have had some turnover in terms of players, their nine-wicket win over Benalla in round one indicated they still have what it takes.
“Rovers this week will be a good challenge,” Ryan said.
“Their core group of older players are smart and experienced so we will be wary of them.
“There isn’t much of an out-there strategy for us, just bowl tight line and put pride on our wickets, keep it simple for the first few games.”
The match commences from 12.30pm at Wangaratta’s WJ Findlay Oval.
The rest of the club’s senior teams are in action as well this weekend, with Beechworth taking on
There was a great field of 23 players last Thursday for the first week of Twilight golf.
This included two juniors, Maurice Kraus and Ryder Corcoran, which was great to see. and come again.
It is only $5 for the juniors to play.
The winner of the Twilight golf had to be decided on a countback between Graeme Cordy and Dave Lang.
It came down to the last hole where Graeme had a
a two pointer to give Graeme the cash.
Dave won the Bridge Road Brewers voucher for runner up.
Ball winners were Dylan Pool 20, Jarryd Pritchard 20 and Dave Clark 20.
Only one nearest the pin went off and that went to Dave Lang on the 5th. Jarryd Pritchard took home all the cash for the nearest chip by chipping in on the 9th.
Dylan Pool also had an eagle on the par 4 2nd. The CC’s Quality Meats & Smokehouse voucher was won by John Sheehan in the raffle.
Thanks again to Bridge Road Brewers, Beechworth Bakery and CC’s Quality Meats for their sponsorship this Twilight season.
SPECIAL GUEST: Luke Saville - former pro player, Australian Davis Cup team representative and Olympian will be at Yackandandah to not only coach young players but also hold a Q&A.
Brenton Surrey celebrates after taking Conner Forde’s edge keeping up to the stumps.
RUNS THERE: Matt Ryan flicks one behind
APPEAL:
Shaky start for Wanderers’ A grade
The 2025/26 WDCA A grade season commenced on Saturday, and it was far from an ideal start for Beechworth Wanderers.
Taking on Ovens Valley United at Myrtleford’s McNamara Reserve, the Wanderers were bowled out for 132 chasing the Tigers’ total of 185 all out.
After winning the toss and bowling, Beechworth were on the back foot early thanks to a barrage of big hits from Ovens Valley openers Seamus Phillips (37 from 44) and Dylan Bursill (28 from 33), who combined for a 62-run opening stand until Jonathan Carson got the breakthrough in the 12th over.
The wicket brought Geeth Alwis
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
to the crease, and last year’s champion player proved he still had it, bludgeoning 53 from 65 deliveries.
After Carson picked up his second, a skied ball cleanly taken by Matt Ryan, Beechworth were able to peg back momentum thanks to the sterling glovework of Brenton Surrey.
The former skipper held his chances when they came, and executed two brilliant leg-side stumpings in three deliveries, working brilliantly in tandem with Henry Scalzo (3/28).
Richard Worcester (2/35) and Matt Ryan (2/16) would mop up the tail, with a target of 186 for victory.
The chase hit a pothole in the third over, with Jackson Cull clean bowled by Joe Monk for an eightball duck.
Cam Fendyk managed just the single run before his front pad was rocked by James Neary, which brought Surrey to the middle at 2-2 in the fourth over, who began to embark on a rescue mission.
Surrey’s 63 from 66 was a virtuoso performance including five boundaries and a maximum, working the field and hammering loose deliveries across the park.
However, while Surrey was carving up the attack at one end, he had little to no support from any batting partner – excluding Surrey, only three players made it to double digits, and no one making more than 17.
The final nail in the coffin came when Surrey holed out to mid off 6/96 in the 26th over off Joel Jordan, who would go on to rip through the tail and finish with 5/29.
Beechworth skipper Matt Ryan said the Tigers’ fast start set the game up.
“I think round one is always a bit of a hectic one with the football seasons going so deep these days,
so we felt a bit underdone but that’s no excuse,” he said.
“The game was probably decided in the first 10-15 overs of their innings where they got off to a flier.
“We pegged it back really well to bowl them out for 180 in the end after they were roughly 1/70.
“180 is a par score or thereabouts - good teams will chase that down and we just needed a couple of guys to make 20+ runs to support ‘Grub’ [Brenton Surrey] who played a flawless innings.
“Our batting let us down, but it’s early in the season so nothing to worry about.
■ Continued page 11
Jonathan Carson asks the question of the umpire.
HOWZAT:
PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries