Indigo Shire mayor
Sophie Price (left), Senior Citizens Club president
Chris Dormer and secretary Heather Hulett, Beechworth Correctional Centre general manager
Nick Selisky, Cr Roberta Horne, Lions Club president John Eldrid and Cr John Harvey at last week’s 50-year celebrations of the building.
Closure of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) Beechworth Branch after running for more than 80 years of contributing to the community is a huge disappointment for Beechworth CWA life member Beryl Pope, as well as all members.
A sign of the times Mrs Pope said CWA not attracting members included factors
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
such as younger people unable to step up to due to work commitments.
“It’s very sad as we do a lot for the community and it’s a social group too that offers friendship,” she said.
“Existing members can
no longer continue to undertake executive roles with the positions becoming vacant with no-one to fill them.”
Mrs Pope said it’s happening to many other community organisations relying on volunteers as well.
“We help with natural disaster relief such as floods and bushfires especially
in our region and also nationally working with other branches to help people rebuild,” she said.
Beechworth CWA president Kathryn Chivers said the local branch’s legacy of 83 years has been fantastic from its time when established during World War II until now supporting families, women and children.
Funds have been invested into the community from hundreds of fundraising stalls for a variety of projects.
“I think the Beechworth community will miss our little street stalls such as for Mother’s Day,” she said.
Ms Chivers said in giving back to the community among many contributions in the past have included
projects such as grants with small scholarships for the local high school.
“We celebrated the annual International Women’s Day with a lunch or dinner in the Town Hall Gardens,” she said.
“We’ve also supported families in need and among those are ones affected by house fires in the district.
■ Continued page 2
By CORAL COOKSLEY
Beechworth Senior Citizen’s Club members celebrated a 50-year anniversary of its purpose-built centre at 1A Harper Street last Thursday.
A crowd of around 60 people including guests and groups using the centre took part in the celebrations.
Senior Citizen’s Club president Chris Dormer delivered an informative account of the building’s rich history including funding as well as the background of the Senior Citizen’s Club.
Guest speakers included Indigo Shire Mayor Sophie Price, Lions Club president John Eldrid and Beechworth Correctional Centre general manager Nick Selisky representing the three organisations involved with the build.
“Today is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful foresight, tenacity and ingenuity in the Beechworth community, past and present members and all the people who’ve been part
of this building story,” Ms Dormer said.
“We’re here to celebrate the building and this building has a great story to tell.
“The Beechworth community not only built this building but continue to keep it alive, something they have done for 50 years.”
Ms Dormer described how the club moved around town with rented premises from when it kicked off in 1965 known then as the pensioners’ club.
Built and opened in 1975 as a dedicated Senior Citizen’s Centre, an extension added in 1992 catered for increasing membership and activities.
A local government restructure in 1994 brought about significant changes with the newly created Indigo Shire Council taking ownership and maintenance of the building.
Beechworth Lions Club president John Eldrid said the Lions Club had forethought for building the centre with two Lions Life members
Graeme and Lesley Smart part of the original project.
“Graeme was president at the time of the official opening but away with Ian McGuffie standing in,” he said.
Mr Eldrid said Lions volunteers had helped with many working bees undertaken during construction.
Beechworth Correctional Centre manager Nick Selisky said the original Beechworth Gaol had been part of the community from 1856 until its formal closure in 2004.
Mr Selisky said the work crew had contributed to the construction of the building.
“I would like to acknowledge Joe Chambeyron, a former staff member of the old Beechworth Gaol who supervised the work crew during construction and thank him for his
contribution to the development of this wonderful community club,” he said.
Mr Selisky also said Beechworth Gaol, now known as Beechworth Correctional Centre (operating in its Flat Rock Road premises) has a proud history of supporting the local community with various initiatives.
“Fast forward 50 years to the day, we still have men supporting Indigo Shire and all the wonderful community groups,” he said.
Cr Price said she had been delighted to take part in celebrating the history of a group making significant contributions to Beechworth and surrounding towns at a time where volunteerism is on the decline.
“The Senior Citizens Club has a strong history as detailed today,
and is a place where seniors can gather, be active and participate in different activities,” she said.
“It’s fantastic to have some people here today who contributed to building the well-used centre.”
Beechworth’s Doreen Blake said the 50-year anniversary is a great milestone for the town.
Mrs Blake with Geoff Lucas together cut the anniversary cake.
Mr Lucas had been a former United Shire of Beechworth councillor as he had cleared the site with a bulldozer ready for construction of the building.
Local musician Sandra Williams on keyboard accompanied singer Kath Buckingham as the pair entertained the crowd of around sixty people while Beechworth Correctional Centre’s community work team prepared an afternoon tea.
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•
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
at the
for
Members make difficult decision to close a local CWA branch after running for more than 80 years
■ From front page
“We’ve also supported CWA branches in Lismore with the floods a few years ago and natural disaster recovery still continues by the CWA main branch in Melbourne.”
Beechworth CWA also started a young cooks’ program now managed and run by the Quercus Beechworth Neighbourhood Centre.
Among other contributions to the community has been host-
ing the annual Australia Day celebrations in the town with other community organisations, as well as taking part in offering a free breakfast.
Ms Chivers said all CWA branches contribute towards natural disaster recovery with 20 per cent of fundraising earnings given to the CWA head office.
“In an official letter dated 9 August to the CWA head office in Melbourne we stressed how dif-
ficult the decision has been to close the branch,” she said.
“Hopefully someone will take an opportunity to bring it back should there be enough interest.
“Our last meeting is 19 September when present and past members are invited to celebrate our achievements and to share memories over a lunch at 12noon at Hotel Nicholas.”
CWA Victoria also works behind the scenes advocating for
changes needed to government legislation among them preventing family violence.
The philanthropic organisation of women working for the welfare of women and children through representation to all levels of government, the CWA also teaches life skills.
CWA is also part of a worldwide network of city and rural women supporting women, children and families.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
Victoria Police have confirmed fugitive Dezi Freeman’s wife was present at the time of the Porepunkah shooting as officers continue to scour the region’s homes and bushland for Australia’s most wanted man.
The 56-year-old remains on the run as a mass manhunt for the man who allegedly killed two police officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottert went into a ninth day.
Chief Commissioner Bush remained guarded in revealing operational tactics in the “extremely challenging” search due to the possibility of Freeman monitoring media reports.
The state’s top policeman made another appeal to Freeman to hand himself in and the possibility of Freeman being helped remained real.
“Our resolve and determination grows by the day to bring this to a peaceful and safe conclusion,” he said.
“This person is armed and is extremely dangerous, that adds a whole new complexity to this investigation.
here to thank them and give them every resource they require,” Chief Commissioner Bush said.
Public messaging for the community remained the same, with people urged to remain vigilant and avoid travelling through the general Porepunkah area.
The VicEmergency community warning area shrunk from as far as Nagambie to its new borders in Wangaratta and Beechworth.
The Porepunkah area remained a no-fly zone.
Police advise that if you see Freeman, call 000 immediately but do not approach him.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush and Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly were at police’s operation headquarters at Ovens on Wednesday, where army resources were recently deployed to be part of the search.
There was yet to be any confirmed sightings of Freeman since he was last seen fleeing his Rayner Track property last Tuesday heavily armed.
Det Supt Kelly confirmed Freeman’s wife, Amalia, was
present at the time of the shooting that fateful morning and was being investigated for obstructing police.
He said she may be charged in due course.
“We are working with her through her solicitor and we hope to progress our engagement with her going forward,” he said.
The 42-year-old and her 15-year-old son were arrested and interviewed by police last Thursday.
Ms Freeman issued a statement to the media on Sun-
day, saying she was cooperating with police and urged her husband to hand himself in.
Det Supt Kelly said police have searched more than 100 properties within the region related to the investigation.
“This is a complex search out here in the Hume region, out here in the hills,” he said.
Specialist police were seen in Wangaratta on Tuesday while police continue to have a heavy presence at the crime scene and in areas among the Porepunkah community.
Det Supt Kelly said the
force were very pleased with the community assistance they had received so far in the investigation.
He confirmed associates of Freeman were providing information to police and urged the community to continue contacting police.
“That info will be critical to us locating Desmond Freeman,” he said.
“We have established a very good understanding of locations previously frequented, associates and friends.”
“He does not deserve to be protected; this person needs to be in custody.
“They need to be held accountable, but they also need to be kept away and safe from the community.”
Australian Defence Force resources were deployed to the operation involving more than 450 Victoria Police officers, federal police and interstate police.
“I’m in awe of the commitment and professionalism of the police officers and those supporting this search, I’m
Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.
Sen Const de Waart-Hottert is set to be farewelled at the Victoria Police Academy on Friday followed by Det Led Sen Const Thompson’s service on Monday. Both funerals will not be open to the public and the men will be farewelled with full police honours.
Every year Indigo Shire Council looks to the community to recognise the people and organisations that are going above and beyond in their community through the Indigo Shire Awards.
The awards open annually in September and are awarded on 26 January.
Nominations open 15 September at 9am and close at 4pm, 12 October.
Our communities are supported by hard working volunteers who give so much of themselves to see their town thrive.
They are often leaders in their area, from sporting clubs to service groups, event organisers to community groups, and everything in between.
If you know someone who makes a real difference to your community, then nominate them for the Indigo Shire Citizen of the Year Award.
Young people drive many of
the changes for good in their community through active citizenship and consistent contribution.
They are leaders through their participation in community groups, sporting, creative, and service groups, as well as making lasting positive changes.
This is your chance to let them know what a difference they make by nominating them for the Young Citizen of the Year Award.
Community groups are the lifeblood in any of Indigo Shire’s towns and places.
The diversity of their compassion, care, support and actions are endless.
You can help recognise these important services in your local community by nominating a fabulous group for the Community Organisation of the Year Award.
It is well recognised that talented sporting people make great personal and financial
sacrifices to achieve greater levels of performance in their chosen sport.
By providing financial assistance, the Emma George Junior Sporting Scholarship is endeavouring to relieve some of the financial burdens incurred when participating in high-level sport.
The fund is under the auspice of the Indigo Shire Council.
If you know of someone who has been outstanding in their sporting achievements and has the desire to continue to strive and compete at state and national levels, then this scholarship award could just be for them.
You can nominate on the council website https:// www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/ Community/Annual-CommunityAwards, or at a Customer Service Centre.
Contact Kate O’Toole for more information on 0428 662 412 or kate.otoole@indigoshire.vic.gov.au
By CORAL COOKSLEY
Local finalists are set for an exciting time in this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria’s Tidy Towns and Cities – Sustainability Awards.
Online judging will take place over the next five weeks with winners announced at a gala dinner to be held on Tuesday, 28 October at Rydges Melbourne.
Finalists announced last week have been selected in
five out of six categories entered with two in one of them.
Among finalist category clinchers are “Winterwords” – in the Behaviour Change Campaigns and Education category and Beechworth Urban Landcare sustainability with its Lake Sambell clay banks project for environment.
A can collection by members in the Beechworth Football Club’s junior program is another in the litter category to address local issues while the
Beechworth Toy Library is a finalist in the EPA Waste Prevention and Reduction category. Both the Beechworth History Precinct with its National Heritage Listing by Indigo Shire Council and this masthead’s ‘170 Years of the Ovens and Murray Advertiser’ are finalists for Heritage and Culture.
Kevin Duffy with his “Beechworth’s Seat of Contemplation” tree trunk carving of “First Nations Gunditjmara woman Sharleen
Brock” is also a finalist in the Indigenous Culture category.
Local award entries for projects organised by Iris Mannik OAM began more than three decades ago.
Beechworth’s Anne Wilson joined Mrs Mannik around 20 years ago with the pair nominating projects for the annual event.
Many award-winning entries for projects by volunteer and other organisations dedicated to their commu-
nities have been come up trumps over the years.
Mrs Mannik said she attributed strong and diverse entries contributing to this year’s success for finalists.
“Entries promote and highlight the strength of volunteering as well as volunteers in Beechworth, protection of our historic buildings and as well as our history highlighted by our category entries,” she said.
Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria has a 57-year histo-
ry as a dedicated non-profit organisation inspiring and empowering communities to both protect and enhance the environment.
Volunteers unite across a variety of programs with community led projects. For tickets to next month’s Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards gala from 7pm to 10pm visit https:// events.humanitix.com/tidytowns-and-cities-sustainability-awards-2025/tickets.
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
Friday, Saturday 5 (evening), 6 and 7 September (this weekend)
CHILTERN TOURISM & DEVELOPMENT INC AND BARNAWARTHA DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION INC
Inaugural Back to the 1950s festival. Rock and Roll dance featuring rock & roll dance group, Johnny’s Rockers and local band 50s Fools at Memorial Hall; 1950s fashion parade at Posh Plonk; two screenings of iconic 50s inspired movie ‘Grease’ in the historic Star Theatre, vintage car and bike displays, cruise along old Highway 31; bake sale, food, art show at Barnawartha Recreation Reserve. For more information about times and the weekend’s event visit https://www. explorechiltern.com.au/ or phone 0357261611
Friday, 5 September to Thursday, 19 September
ART EXHIBITION AT ANGLICAN CHRIST CHURCH
“Archetypes & Icons. Greek mythodolgy and the sense of self. Works by Valerie Crosse and Darren John Pope. 29 Ford Street.
Saturday, 6 September
BEECHWORTH FARMERS MARKET
8am - 12pm. Always held on the first Saturday of every month. Great variety of fresh, local produce. Craft and food stalls. Located at the Anglican Christ Church, cnr of Ford and Church Streets.
Saturday, 13 September
BEECHWORTH RSL SUB BRANCH: 1pm. Book launch. Melbourne-based author Peter Hodge launches his book ‘Fly Boy – Ace Pilot – A Life Cut Short’. An incredible story about Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) pilot Parker ‘Joe’ Hodge in World War II with connections to Beechworth. RSL premises at 99 Ford Street.
Friday, 19 September
END STAGE MATTERS: DEATH CAFÉ
11am-1pm. Beechworth Lodge of St John, 19 Loch St, Beechworth (every third Friday of the month). Cuppa and chats around such things as wills, advance care directives, funerals, powers of attorney and more. This month’s chat focuses on a new free resource - a website with a wheel of information filled with resources, tools and links that provide people with an overview of things to think about, talk about and do. All welcome.
Saturday and Sunday, 20 & 21 September
BEECHWORTH SINGERS
2pm. Concert at the Town Hall. ‘Classical Hits and Soft Baroque’. Director Colleen Arnott. Accompaniment Sandra Williams. Tickets $20. Purchase at the door by cash or EFTPOS. Children free. Afternoon tea provided. Sunday, 28 September
7th GEOFF CRAIG MEMORIAL LECTURE
2pm. Speaker Megan Carter - Spaces of Survival: Aboriginal Reserves and Ration Depots in North East Victoria. Stanley Memorial Hall. All welcome. For more information phone 0458 606 922 or email stanleyathenaeum@gmail.com
Glenis Spencer was born in New Zealand and with her husband arrived in Australia from New Zealand in April 2014.
“My Mum died in 2013 so after Christmas that year we came to Beechworth as my son lives here with his family,” she said.
“A few months ago, my other son came back from the States where he had been living for 10 years which has been great.”
What did you do workwise?
I worked for 18 years at a university in Auckland. I was asked by a friend to fill in for a busy enrolment period which should have been approximately three weeks but ended up staying for 18 years.
What did you love about your work?
I loved the work and the people in the office – mainly other ladies who were a lot of fun so a very cheerful, happy place to go to each day. We were very busy over
the enrolment period with program leaders needing assistance as they were lecturers as well. We also had to set up the classes for the following semester which was very time consuming. What do you do in the community?
I joined the Seniors Citizen’s Club committee not long after arriving in Beechworth and was secretary for five years. I’m still on the committee but now just look after hall bookings. The Senior Citizen’s Club Centre is used every day of the week and sometimes there are private functions on the weekends.
I also did meals on wheels for a few years until my husband became too sick and needed me constantly. He
passed away in 2020. I attend the Beechworth Exercise Activity and Training (BEAT) group most weeks and a craft group on Friday mornings.
I have had to learn all about footy which was hard at first after following the All Blacks all my life but now both my grandsons play footy and this weekend the oldest is in the finals, so I have learned all about it and learned to love it.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
I love living in Beechworth, it is a great town for young and old but the only thing that does upset me a little is the condition of the local amenities. Considering it is a tourist town with lots of visitors constantly I do think they could be improved. I did mention it to the council but as far as I can see, nothing has been done as yet.
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
As for world issues I think the most important is that with so many people in the world starving we are unable to fix the problem. It breaks my heart to see young children in particular going hungry when we in Australia in the main have food in abundance.
If the person you would most like to meet or knew, came to Indigo Shire or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?
I would like to see to our Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese come to Beechworth. I doubt he has ever been here, but I think he should visit at least one small country town each year to see what happens and what we get up to.
What book are you reading? ‘Tidelands’ by British author Victoria Holt.
She is one of my favourite authors as most of the books are based in the 1800s or earlier.
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A fun project initiative by the local fire brigade has been brought to fruition with the help of Beechworth Correction Centre’s metal fabrication team.
An official handover of two toy fire trucks for educational purposes made by the team for the brigade took place on Tuesday.
Beechworth Fire Brigade’s Hannah Hunt said the toy trucks were a fantastic asset for educational community engagement with the brigade.
“It’s a really great activity for kindergarten kids, school visits, community events, festivals and more,’ she said.
“The little trucks go onto a charged hose line, and then the kids get to put the branch on, hit the back of the trucks with water, and race the trucks down the hose line.”
Brigade captain Travis Nicholson said youngsters become more knowledgeable about the fire brigade when engaging with them via the little red fire trucks.
“It’s a really good way of getting messages out,” he said.
then started the manufacturing process,” he said.
Ms Hunt said other local fire brigades can borrow the trucks as well.
“The project isn’t just for the Beechworth Fire Brigade as the CFA is all one,” she said.
“It’s really important that Beechworth Correctional Centre can support local initiatives where men can give back to the community, and it means so much to them.
ALL SMILES:
(LEFT),
Albury Wodonga Health has among the worst records for public surgery waiting lists and postponements, according to the latest Victorian health data.
More than one in 10 public surgeries are postponed.
Almost a quarter, or 720 people, have been on the waiting list for more than a year.
Category 2 patients, who should be treated in 90 days, are waiting more than a year for surgery.
Category 3 patients should be operated on within a year but wait closer to two years.
COOKSLEY
One of the two men who made the trucks said prior to coming into custody, he had a background in metal fabrications.
“They have fun with squirting the trucks, but it also gives us a valuable opportunity while they’re doing that, to talk to parents about fire safety as an educational as well.”
As examples Mr Nicholson said fire brigade members get a chance to talk to them about smoke detectors or summer fire safety.
“Neighbouring brigades can borrow these trucks for their own community events and brings us into one cohesive family that we already are.”
Beechworth Correctional Service general manager Nick Selisky said talented staff in the metalwork factory worked with two men in custody when plans had been received.
“They interpreted the plans and
“They are talented, take pride in their work and with the opportunity to give something back to the community they feel good about themselves.”
Mr Selisky said the men gained extra skills for when they go back into the community.
“They’ve had that connection to the community through a day like today as well,” he said.
“This project gave me the opportunity to put those skills to use, assist the community and the CFA with their educational program and I’m proud to contribute to a worthwhile cause,” he said.
Another man who helped make the trucks said the project gave him a sense of self-worth.
“It feels good knowing I helped the CFA in their community education campaign, and I was able to learn new skills along the way,” he said.
The statistics were published in the same week the health service declared a Code Yellow forcing both hospitals to further modify theatre lists and prioritise surgeries.
Benambra MP Bill Tilley feared the numbers were under reported.
In the Victorian Parliament recently he asked the Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas to clarify how these numbers are recorded.
“We have people telling the office that they have been waiting up to eight years for knee replacements,” he said.
“Some have had their surgery cancelled at the last minute, some because of weight issues – my fear is that this resets their waiting time clock, that they go back to day one.
By MARK SIMPSON
Stargazers will be hoping for a clear night on the morning of Monday, 8 September to see a total eclipse of the moon.
While not a rare event, the last total lunar eclipse seen in Australia was in 2022 and the next will be in March 2026.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the full moon passes through earth’s shadow.
Earth will be directly between the sun and the moon and the earth’s shadow is cast out into space and when everything lines up the moon passes through it.
Sometimes called a “blood moon”, the moon takes on an orange to red or brown colour as the eclipse progresses. This is due to the refraction of the sun’s light passing through the earth’s atmosphere - the same way as sunsets and sunrises look orange here on the ground.
The light is bent to show the red end of the spectrum as it passes at a shallow angle through the earth’s atmosphere.
From the moon it would look like an orange sunrise coming up over earth.
The bad news is this eclipse is not particularly convenient viewing as it starts at around 1am and goes till after 5am with the main peak of the eclipse - when the moon is entirely in the darkness of the earth’s shadow - at 4:10am.
The good news is that you don’t need any special equipment at all to watch the eclipse.
It is quite clear to the naked eye and is just like watching the moon on any other night.
If you’re keen enough to get out of bed and brave the cold you will be quite stunned at how the night goes from a bright, full moon night to full darkness.
It’s a bit spookier than it sounds if you’ve never seen it before.
All this, assuming the weather is not cloudy.
The eclipse will start at 1:30am on Monday when the moon enters the semi-shadow of earth.
The total eclipse begins at 3:30am when the moon enters full shadow and reaches totality at 4:10am when the moon will appear almost totally dark.
It ends at 4:50am with the semishadow continuing into the morning twilight.
“I want the Health Minister to tell me that’s not the case.”
Mr Tilley said the latest data was not good news for the 3012 people waiting for surgery.
“Almost 11 per cent of surgeries were postponed, It’s the third worst of some 46 hospitals who published their data,” he said.
“About 24 per cent of people on the waiting list have now waited more than a year for surgery.
“That’s the worst in Victoria and more than double what it was 12 months ago.
“We need the extra beds that Mercy Health and modular wards can provide, we also need this Victorian Government to stump up and pay for the surgery the people on the waiting list demand.”
By CORAL COOKSLEY
An Australia Post $2000 grant has helped Beechworth Fire Brigade procure a thermal imaging camera boosting firefighting capabilities and ensure community safety.
The fire brigade is one of more than 200 grassroots community and not-for-profit groups around Australia to receive a financial hand by the organisation through its People of Post grants program.
More than $400,000 in grants this year have been given to groups around Australia through the unique employee-led community grant initiative.
Australia Post team members, among them posties and post office workers, nominate local community or not-for-profit groups for a grant of up to $2000.
Australia Post - Beechworth Post Shop’s Scott Saunders said staff love giving back to the local community with the annual community grant.
The camera will help detect hotspots, monitor fire spread, and improve search and rescue operations.
The project addresses increasing fire incidents in Beechworth bushfire-prone region.
HAPPY DAYS: AUSTRALIA POST - BEECHWORTH POST SHOP’S SCOTT SAUNDERS (RIGHT) LAST FRIDAY CONGRATULATED BEECHWORTH FIRE BRIGADE’S TOM CHRISTESEN REPRESENTING THE BRIGADE ON THE PURCHASE OF THE THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA.
Beechworth CFA member Tom Christesen said the camera will help find fires such as ones smouldering under mulch or behind bark.
and scrub fires,” he said.
“The camera allows us to track down the source as a smouldering might reignite a few days later so it ensures that the fire is completely extinguished,” he said.
Mr Christesen said the Fire Brigade has a camera for structures with this camera the first one for wildfires and will be predominantly used out in the bush.
“It’s a great asset for us and will help when responding to grass
Australia Post significantly increased its grants for this year to address growing financial pressures faced by community groups nationwide.
Latest research commissioned by Australia Post has found that forty per cent of regular-giving Australians have donated less in the past 12 months due to cost-of-living pressures.
The report indicated half of Australians give less to charity due to increased costs of groceries and essentials.
This year’s program has provided 224 grants to initiatives spanning
metro, regional and remote areas up by 47 per cent from last year.
Community groups in Victoria received the highest number of grants this year with 35 per cent of grants issued, then Queensland (25%) and New South Wales (20%), with remaining recipients from Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and the ACT.
Now in its eighth year, the program has supported 2,158 not-forprofit community organisations across Australia, delivering a total of nearly $2 million in grants.
ABC Radio National is calling on book lovers across Australia to be part of a new national tradition: The Top 100 Books
Across Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October, ABC Radio will count down the books that have shaped Australia’s cultural memory, in a special two-day live broadcast event. From Anthony Griffiths and Terry Denton’s ‘The 13-Storey Treehouse’ to the works of Margaret Atwood, from poetry to politics, readers are invited to vote for the stories that have moved them, challenged them, or stayed with them long after the first chapter.
The theme for the inaugural countdown is ‘The Top 100 Books of the 21st Century’ - a celebration of the most powerful, beloved, and talked-about books published in English between January 1, 2000, and August 31, 2025.
All genres are welcome; if you’ve read it, you can vote for it. With special guests and engaging conversations, the weekend will be a must-listen for every book lover.
Vote now at https://www. abc.net.au/listen/radionational/countdown/top100books and be part of history. If your favourite title isn’t listed, you can add it manually.
ACROSS
4 To describe graphically, is to do what (7)
8 Name a shrub, often cultivated for its fragrant flowers (7)
9 What is the section of a space shuttle that carries the crew and the payload (7)
10 What is a comprehensive physical examination (5-2)
11 Which term describes boarders (7)
12 What do we affectionately call a returned soldier (6)
14 Name the relative standing, position, or condition of anything (6)
18 What are large bottles for wine, etc (7)
21 Which term describes food or drink that is without sufficient taste to be pleasing (7)
22 To have lied close and snug, is to have done what (7)
23 Quito is the capital of which Pacific coastal republic (7)
24 When one makes certain, one does what (7)
DOWN
1 To have forced someone out, is to have done what (7)
2 Name a renowned cricket trophy (5)
3 What is the act of connecting (7)
4 What do we call human beings (6)
5 To be furious or raging, is to be what (5)
6 Name a place of refuge, exclusion, or privacy (7)
7 What are measurements of three feet (5)
13 Name an alternative term for spectacles (7)
16 Name some eight-legged, predatory arachnids (7)
17 What are words spoken in undertones (6)
18 What might we call a receiver of stolen goods (5)
19 Which term describes a person who casts familiar glances (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 HASID
(a) Leaves, shoots or resin of hemp used as an intoxicant
(b) In Kent, a soft sandstone (c) A very pious Jew
2 INDOMITABLE
15 To throw away, is to do what (4,3)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
20 Name a colloquial word for potatoes (5)
(a) That cannot be distinguished (b) Not to be overcome (c) Not docile
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:
Carrying boat overland (7)
Condition (5)
Equine growth hormone (3)
French: cold northerly wind (7)
Histamine (abb) (3)
Male swan (3)
Mooring space (5)
Muslim women’s quarters (5)
Social class (5)
WWII life-jacket: ... West (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
A powerful speech delivered in Canberra by the Member for Monash Mary Aldred has reinforced the depth of community and bipartisan political support for strong regional news services.
Speaking in the House of Representatives, Ms Aldred called for the urgent implementation of the federal government’s News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP) and the proposed News Bargaining Incentive.
Ms Aldred highlighted the vital role of regional newspapers in keeping communities informed, connected and represented, describing local papers as “the threads that hold communities together”.
Country Press Australia (CPA) president Damian Morgan said Ms Aldred’s words reflect what every regional community already knows - and demonstrate that the future of regional journalism is an issue that unites both sides of politics.
“Mary Aldred is absolutely right - local newspapers are the lifeblood of their communities,” Mr Morgan said.
“We share the triumphs and tragedies, we celebrate volunteers, and we tell the stories that connect people to one another.
“It is encouraging to see both government and opposition recognising this and backing regional journalism.”
Mr Morgan said CPA was particularly appreciative of the federal government’s announcement of NewsMAP and its commitment to allocate funds directly to support public interest journalism in regional communities.
He said NewsMAP is a very significant initiative.
TIME TO ACT: Member for Monash Mary Aldred spoke in federal parliament calling for urgent implementation of the federal government’s News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP) and she said regional newspapers are “the threads that hold communities together”.
“For the first time, the federal government has created a structured framework that recognises the unique challenges of regional and local publishers and commits dedicated funding to help sustain them,” he said.
“With bipartisan voices now reinforcing the need for action, this is an important and positive step forward,” Mr Morgan said.
“We thank the Albanese Government for listening to the concerns of regional publishers and for committing funds under NewsMAP.
“This decision sends a clear signal that regional journalism matters and that local communities deserve strong, independent news outlets.
“With bipartisan recognition of its importance, we hope to see
it rolled out quickly and with certainty.”
Mr Morgan stressed, however, that the success of NewsMAP will be measured by how quickly it is implemented.
“The framework is there, the commitment is there, and the funds have been announced,” he said.
“What we need now is for NewsMAP to move from promise to delivery.
“Publishers are waiting, communities are waiting, we cannot afford further delays.”
He also highlighted other pressing challenges, including the withdrawal of Meta from its Australian publisher agreements and the urgent need for the government’s proposed News Bargaining Incentive.
“Meta has walked away from regional news deals, leaving a massive hole in local journalism funding,” Mr Morgan said.
“The government’s proposed News Bargaining Incentive is the right solution, and Mary Aldred’s support shows there is bipartisan recognition of how urgent this reform is. “Consultation must begin and legislation must be progressed quickly.
“Regional journalism doesn’t have the luxury of waiting another year or two for Canberra to act.”
Mr Morgan also strongly backed Ms Aldred’s warning against weakening copyright protections to benefit global AI companies.
“Australia’s copyright laws are world-leading, and any attempt to hand over our content for free to AI companies would be devastating,” he remarked.
“Regional publishers strongly oppose such changes and journalism must be paid for if it is to survive.
“On this, too, we are seeing strong bipartisan agreement.”
CPA has long argued that fair government advertising allocation, proper industry consultation, and stronger bargaining rules for digital platforms are essential to securing the future of trusted local journalism.
“We thank Mary Aldred for using her speech to stand up for regional news and for showing that there is bipartisan resolve on these critical issues,” he said.
“We also acknowledge the Albanese Government for its positive step in announcing NewsMAP.
“Now it’s time to see it rolled out and backed up with the wider reforms regional journalism urgently needs.”
PROTEST FOR PEACE: A group of about 150 protestors rallied peacefully in Wangaratta on Sunday, August 24 calling for peace in Palestine.
By SHANE DOUTHIE
On Sunday, 24 August, Wangaratta’s King George Gardens became a focal point of peaceful activism as more than 150 people came together to stand in solidarity with Palestinians according to organisers.
The gathering, organised by North East Mums for Peace, ech-
oed the largest pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Australia’s history - held that same day across more than 40 cities and towns.
This Wangaratta rally attracted people from Beechworth, Bright, and even as far as the Blue Mountains.
Dressed in red to symbolise the bloodshed and the moral lines already crossed, the attendees met in an atmosphere of solemn resolve.
Emily Scott delivered a powerful speech to the crowd.
“Israel kills 28 children every single day in Palestine,” she said.
“Israel is using starvation as a weapon of war… a calculated policy to weaken, humiliate, and erase a population.
“This is genocide, funded by its allies, enabled by silence.
“But breaking silence is the
only moral choice we have left.
“And we will not stop until Palestine is free.
“Free, free Palestine.”
The group then marched around the block; chanting, and bearing banners calling for an immediate ceasefire, an end to arms sales, and accountability from both Australian leaders and Israel.
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Notice of an Application for a Planning Permit
(Section 52(1) Planning and Environment Act 1987)
Indigo Shire Council has received a planning permit application which may affect you.
The land affected by the application is located at 31 Newbound Lane, Beechworth VIC 3747
The application is for a permit to: Two Lot Subdivision Planning Scheme Clause: 43.04-2
Matter for which a permit is required:
A permit must not be granted to use or subdivide land, construct a building or construct or carry out works until a development plan has been prepared to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.
The applicant for the permit is Nidhi Satokar.
The application reference number is DP240003.
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at: Indigo Shire Council 34 High Street, Yackandandah Indigo Shire Council 101, Ford Street, Beechworth
You may also call 1300 365 003 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Indigo Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority.
An objection must be made to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.
The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.
The responsible authority will not decide on the application before 19 September 2025.
If you object, the responsible authority will tell you its decision.
Ozmist is a Wangaratta based company that is looking for a Bookkeeper / Receptionist to join their team. The position is permanent part time for 16 hours preferably split between 4 days but can be flexible. Knowledge of XERO is preferred but not essential. For details of the position email dean@ozmist.com.au.
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REGAL Popup, no aircon, RWC, Devenish, Ph Gabrielle 5764 4332
JAYCO Westport 20ft 2000 model, sleeps 2, annex, combo shower toilet, aircon, solar, diesel heater, tv, radio, everything works, very good condition, $21,500. Phone Terry 0428 398 360.
CARABANA for sale, will tow just needs a light bar and permits, gas works on fridge and stove, will make a great spare room, $2000 ono, only serious buyers need apply. Ph 0424 053 334.
AFL North East Border (AFLNEB) can confirm the following Player Points System (PPS) and Allowable Player Payment (APP) Caps for the 2026 season across the region.
Each year AFLNEB reviews, seeks feedback from leagues and sets the Total Team Points (TTP) and APP Caps for each league within the region.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, there will be no change to the TTP structures that were implemented in the region in 2025, with the Ovens and Murray FNL (OMFNL), Tallan-
gatta and District FL (TDFL) and Ovens and King FNL (OKFNL) continuing with the sliding scale system into a second year.
As part of the process, several leagues requested increases to their APP caps across the North East Border region, with AFLNEB confirming increases of between five to six per cent across the OMFNL, TDFL and OKFNL caps, while the Upper Murray FNL will remain as per the 2025 season.
Clubs now have the ability to apply for individual increases to their
APP and TTP caps for the 2026 season as per the relevant policies and AFLNEB By-Laws, with applications reviewed and considered against the criteria, and each individual clubs circumstances taken into account.
AFLNEB acknowledges and appreciates each league and clubs ongoing commitment towards the CCSP.
As per 2025, the region will continue to provide support and education to clubs in 2026, to ensure that clubs are aware of their responsibilities when it comes to both the PPS and APP policies.
The Centre Against Violence (CAV) is excited to announce that filming has begun on a powerful new video campaign to support the Tackling Consent program for the 2026 season.
Last week, players from the Zappo’s - St Patricks Primary School netball team and the Kangaroos junior football team generously volunteered their time and talent to take part in the production. Their skills and energy will feature in educational pieces that will sit alongside stories from elite AFL and netball athletes, bringing together community and professional voices to talk about respect, consent, and leadership in sport.
The Tackling Consent program is a free, fully funded initiative available to football and netball clubs across northeast Victoria.
It provides practical workshops and tailored resources that support players, coaches and club leaders to create safer, more inclusive sporting environments.
Kasi Burge, strategic pro-
jects advisor at CAV, said the community’s involvement is what makes the program truly special.
“This program only comes to life when clubs, players, and communities put their hands up to be part of it,” she said.
“To see local players stand proudly in front of the camera, ready to support our work at CAV, shows exactly why Tackling Consent matters.
“It is about young people leading the way and sending a strong message that respect and safety belong at the heart of sport.”
Ms Burge said Tackling Consent is about creating lasting change in community sport.
“This program is not just about talking to young people,” she said.
“It is about working with the whole club, with coaches, mentors, committees and players, to make sure equality and inclusion are at the heart of every decision.
“It is a chance for clubs to lead by example and show
that respect always wins.”
CAV extends its sincere thanks to Helen Newman from Nomad Films, whose expertise and creativity are helping to bring the Tackling Consent story to life on screen.
The project is a partnership between CAV and La Trobe University’s Reducing Gender-Based Violence (ReGEN) Research Group, and is proudly funded through the Partners in Prevention of Sexual Violence Project.
Registrations are now open, with limited places available for the 2026 program.
Football and netball clubs across the Ovens Murray region are encouraged to get involved and be part of this important step forward.
For more information or to express your interest, contact Jodie Farrugia, prevention and education facilitator, on 0429 720 433 or email education@cav.org.au.
Learn more at https://centreagainstviolence.org.au/ news/tackling-consent-project/.
2026 Club APP Caps: Ovens & Murray FNL $137,500, Tallangatta DFL $76,500, Ovens & King FNL $58,000. OMFNL 2026 TTP Caps
Premier: 36, R/Up: 37, 3rd: 38, 4th: 39, 5th: 40, 6th: 42, 7th: 43, 8th: 44, 9th: 45, 10th: 46.
OKFNL 2026 TTP Caps
Premier: 37, R/Up: 38, 3rd: 39, 4th: 40, 5th: 41, 6th: 42, 7th: 43, 8th: 44, 9th: 45, 10th: 46, 11th: 46.
TDFL 2026 TTP Caps
Premier: 37, R/Up: 38, 3rd: 39, 4th: 40, 5th: 41, 6th: 42, 7th: 43, 8th: 44, 9th: 45, 10th: 46, 11th: 46, 12th: 46.
By DYLAN POOL
Just a handful of players fronted up for a stableford round in Sunday at Beechworth.
Simon Pfahlert made it two wins in a row with his score of 33 points.
Dean Howard was runner up with 32 points on a countback from Peter Smith 32.
Also on Sunday we had some members travel to Avenel for their tournament.
Graeme Pool was the star of the day having a great score to win the C grade scratch.
TEAM EFFORT: Zappo’s netball team (back row) Sarah Hourigan, Rylie Houghton, Abbie Branden, Lulu Vihm, Paige Finnegan, Hannah Joyce, coach Michelle Fletcher, (front row) Penelope Saunders, Maddalyn May, Georgie Fletcher, Kara Milligan.
PHOTOS: Helen Newman and Nomad Films
VOLUNTEERS: Kangaroos football players Luca Solimo, Harry Edwards, Liam Solimo, Brodi Jackson, Tyler Hunter and Oscar Edwards.
The only other winner was Jacob Howard who won two six packs in the raffle. We must also congratulate Vaughan Saunders who came in third position at Charlton last weekend at the Victorian Sandgreen Championships.
Darren Edwards and Dylan Pool also finished in the top
This coming Sunday is Father’s Day.
Which we will be holding our September Monthly
Arrive at 11:30am for 12pm tee time.
The Sunday after (14 September) is Chiltern’s Tournament.
So let’s support them. Let’s Dylan know or comment here if you are going to come to Chiltern. Friday, 26 September (AFL Public Holiday) two-person Ambrose.
Sunday, 5 October. Beechworth Men’s Tournament.
Under 17s win their way through to preliminary final, face Rutherglen for spot in big dance
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Beechworth’s under 17s continued to defy the odds with a semi-final win against Dederang Mount-Beauty, giving them a chance to play off for a grand final spot this Saturday.
In a tight game, it wasn’t until late in the last quarter that the Under 17s were able to put down a spirited opposition.
The teams traded blows in
the first half in a high scoring back and forth.
As tensions rose in the second half goals became harder to come by and it was only a five-point lead in favour of the Bushrangers at threequarter time.
A monster effort in the last quarter though saw Beechworth run out winners after winning the quarter 3.7 to 0.1 and the game 13.9 (87) to 9.4 (58).
Finn Hoysted led from the front kicking three goals along with Tom Stefaniak with four goals, both playing from the midfield.
Vaughan Bussell starred down back while Rourke Warner was prolific up forward, with Oli Kavanagh and Oliver Bladon also in the team’s best.
The under 17s only just scraped into finals after winning five of their last six
games of the regular season and are now taking full advantage of the opportunity.
The Bushrangers last met their preliminary final opponent Rutherglen in round eight and on that occasion only eight points separated the two sides.
Their Sandy Creek run will continue from 10:20am.
Throughout other preliminary finals during Saturday, Chiltern and Barnawartha
will play-off for a spot in the seniors’ grand final against Kiewa-Sandy Creek.
The Swans were challenged in the first half and held onto an eight-point lead at halftime.
Thurgoona’s inaccuracy would come back to haunt them, having more scoring shots than the Swans after three quarters, but down by 14 points.
Chiltern would run out the
game the far better team to finish winners 12.16 (88) to 6.14 (50).
In the A grade netball Chiltern would be dealt just their second loss of the season as Kiewa-Sandy Creek won their way through to the grand final in comprehensive fashion, 52-31. The Swans will play in the preliminary final against Tallangatta who got by Thurgoona 52-44 last Sunday.