June 4 - 10, 2025
2025 Benalla Shorts film festival calls out for entries
BUDDING filmmakers and video story tellers are encouraged to get their entries in for the 2025 Benalla Shorts, a celebration of short film making.
The Benalla National & International Short Film Festival is now in its 11th year and continuing a tradition of supporting those who want to get a hand-on experience of filmmaking; open to national and international film makers across all ages groups.
Films must be no longer than 15 minutes, and
By JORDAN DUURSMA
cash prizes are on o er in categories including Best Film, Best Student Film, Best International Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Local Film (within 100km of Benalla) and People’s Choice.
Festival director, Anna Smith, encourages anyone and everyone to enter their films, par-
ticularly filmmakers from the North East.
“We particularly encourage local filmmakers young and not so young,” she said.
“There is a special category for those within 100km radius of Benalla.”
Ms Smith said the festival is an opportunity for local artists and film makers to share their work.
“This is the main reason we created the Benalla Short Film Festival,” she said.
“Our region is bursting with talent and we
want to give local filmmakers the opportunity to show their films on the big screen in front of their friends, family and community.”
The festival is geared towards helping create opportunities for networking and connections in the industry for budding filmmakers and story-tellers.
Ms Smith said the festival organisers have made a conscious e ort to encourage and enable filmmakers to build connections.
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◆ SUCCESSFUL CREATIVES: Andrew Robb, John Erasmus, Ayesha Gibson, Hayley Warnock, Yanni Dellaportas, Rachel Tierney and Nathalia Cerritelli were among the proud group of creatives whose work was screened at the 2024 Benalla Short Film Festival.
anxiety in pets
ANXIETY is something we don’t always expect in our furry companions, but it is far more common than most people realise.
Just like humans, animals can experience stress, fear, separation anxiety and emotional distress.
The good news?
With awareness and the right approach, it can be managed e ectively.
What does anxiety in your pet look like?
Anxiety can manifest in a range of behaviours and will vary between cats and dogs.
For dogs this may include excessive barking, pacing, shaking or trembling, destructive chewing, as well as more subtle signs such as panting/drooling, a reduced appetite or becoming unusually clingy.
By WANGARATTA VETERINARY CLINIC
For cats, anxiety may present as hiding, excessive grooming or becoming unusually aggressive.
What causes anxiety?
An animal’s temperament may be influenced by a combination of factors including breed, environment and genetics.
Common causes of anxiety include:
• Lack of socialisation, particularly as a puppy;
• Changes to routine or environment such as a new a family member or pet;
• Loud noises (i.e. thunderstorms, fireworks or construction);
• Underlying medical issues.
What can you do?
If you suspect your pet is dealing with anxiety, we encourage you to visit your local veterinarian.
Early intervention is important to ensure your pet receives the right treatment and support.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the anxiety and often work best in combination with each other.
They may include behavioural training with a fear-free approach, environmental changes, supplements or anti-anxiety medications.
If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s behaviour, feel free to contact Wangaratta Veterinary Clinic.
We’re here to help you make your pet’s world feel safer and more secure.
This day in history, 1891
A VISITOR FOR MOYHU, 1891
ON this day in history, Moyhu received an unexpected visit from old-time bushranger Harry Power.
Power was released from Pentridge due to ill health and decided he was ready for a career in show business.
An old convict ship had been refitted to show what life was like on one of the old prison hulks.
Harry was the o cial greeter of guests and was billed as “a real life bushranger”.
He had reportedly returned to Moyhu to search for a plant of gold he had made some time earlier.
He disappeared from the district and reappeared in Swan Hill, where he died later in the year.
GONE FISHING
Still options to fish in region through winter
WELCOME to winter - a time of year that I call the “slow season”.
While many people focus on snow skiing, football or deer hunting, the hard core fisherman such as myself still has fishing at the top of the priority list.
As we now head into the fishing ‘o season’, this report will be my last fishing report until the start of September, when I will be back in time for the beginning of the trout season.
It’s hard to say what the fishing will be like during winter as much of it will be determined by how much rainfall we get.
What I do know is that at the start of the winter school holidays, the Victorian Fisheries Authority will stock rainbow trout into the many family friendly waterways around the state (subject to water quality).
In the Wangaratta area, those waterways are Merriwa Park Lake, Glenrowan Recreation Reserve dam, Lake Sambell in Beechworth, Allans Flat Waterhole, Tronoh Dredge in Harrietville and Lake Anderson in Chiltern if there’s enough water in it.
These waterways are stocked specifically for kids on school holidays and for people with mobility issues who may otherwise not be able to access
fishable water.
Lakes Bu alo and William Hovell have both just recently been stocked with trout which should provide some angling enjoyment over the winter months.
They are not big though and may take a bit of time to grow.
If you’re willing to travel, one of the most popular winter fishing spots in North Eat Victoria is Lake Dartmouth where trout are caught regularly. A boat is a good advantage up there.
The Khancoban Pondage is another great winter trout fishery.
It is much more “hit and miss” than Lake Dartmouth, but it has much larger trout in it.
Also, Murray crayfishing season is open throughout winter - from 1st June to 31st August inclusive.
I hope you all have a safe and happy winter, and I look forward to returning with this regular fishing column at the start of September.
www.winesofthekingvalley.com.au/weekend-fit-for-a-king/
SCALED WHALE: A 78cm carp caught in the King River near Oxley last week.
with Robbie Alexander WANGARATTA obbie
World of sport offers a host of heroes
By SIMONE KERWIN
HIGH achievers in a range of sports can provide fantastic role models for young people.
Even for those not involved in sport themselves, the stories of these sporting heroes o er a chance to learn about the drive and dedication that’s required to reach an aspired level in any sphere of life.
For youngsters who are finding their way in sport, those stories can certainly be a source of inspiration as they set their goals for the future.
To that end, Kit Cross’ ‘Legends of Sports’ book series provides entry-level access to such inspiration for youngsters aged six to 10.
The most recent books in the series feature F1 star Daniel Ricciardo, the Matildas’ Mary Fowler, Western Bulldogs AFL footballer Marcus Bontempelli and netballer Liz Watson, giving young readers the opportunity to learn all the stats, facts and amazing stories about these nationallyand internationally - recognised sportspeople.
midcourt netballers in the world, and has played more than 90 games for the Australian Diamonds, our national netball team.
Dr Peter Chu, vascular surgeon, is dedicated to providing effective and prompt treatment of circulatory and venous conditions to the Northeast region of Victoria. He has recently established The Melbourne Vascular Surgery & Vein Clinic, and can now, in conjunction with Melbourne Vascular Imaging, bring the latest minimally invasive or “walk-in walkout” treatment strategies for varicose veins, spider veins and other venous disorders to the Northeast region.
For instance, did you know that Daniel Ricciardo has won eight Grand Prix races and finished on the podium 32 times, and that he’s entered more F1 Grand Prix than any other Australian driver?
While she loves to wear the green and gold, Liz’s favourite colour is, in fact, purple.
SUPERFICIAL VENOUS REFLUX DISEASE IS PROGRESSIVE.
Or that he can eat half a litre of ice-cream in one go - a fact bound to endear him to most primary schoolers.
SYMPTOMS CAN WORSEN OVER TIME IF LEFT UNTREATED.
Mary Fowler is one of the youngest players to ever join the Matildas, and scored her first World Cup goal in Melbourne in a 4-0 win.
Though she has represented her country, she states her love of the sport simply in the book: “Often young girls ask, ‘What is the best thing about playing netball?’, and to me the answer will always be the same: getting to play the game that we all love with friends.”
Patients who suffer from superficial venous disease may present symptoms of:
• Varicose veins • Swollen limbs
• Skin changes and ulcers
• Leg heaviness and fatigue • Pain
But did you know she is fluent in Dutch?
Liz Watson is one of the best
Marcus Bontempelli - better known as The Bont - has made the AFL’s All-Australian team six times, and is famous for his onfield leadership and composure under pressure.
Those skills were honed in his early years, as he explains in
the book: “As the only boy in the family, I had no say in what afterschool TV show we’d watch, and hardly any buy-in from my three sisters. So I spent hours by myself playing and commentating”.
These are just some of the fun facts and back stories on o er in the series, which is easily accessible for young people learning to read or sports fans keen for some quick info.
*Thanks to publishers Allen & Unwin, we have copies of these four books in the Legends of Sport series, by Kit Cross and illustrated by Leigh Hedstrom, to o er as a pack to one lucky reader. If you would like to learn more about Daniel Ricciardo, Mary Fowler, Marcus Bontempelli and Liz Watson, email skerwin@ nemedia.com.au and tell us why you’d love to own them.
Albury: The Gardens Medical Centre - 470 Wodonga Place, Albury NSW 2640 Wangaratta: Wangaratta Cardiology & Respiratory Centre 29 Clark Street, Wangaratta VIC 3767 Echuca: Echuca Consulting Suites 25 Francis Street, Echuca VIC 3564.
‘bulk billed vein assessments available’ Phone (03) 9348 9446 | Fax (03) 9329 3051 Email info@melbourneveincentre.com.au
Feeding and nourishing local families: Why we do what we do
By KACEY and JERRY O’CALLAGHAN, WANGARATTA WHOLEFOODS
AT Wholefoods, our story began not with a business plan, but with a powerful realisation: what we eat matters.
In 2011, while studying at university, we were introduced to the book ‘Changing Habits, Changing Lives’ by Cyndi O’Meara.
That moment changed everything.
We left behind packaged foods and embraced an organic lifestyle, even on a university student budget.
Our passion grew during a university exchange in San Diego, where we explored every wholefoods store and co-operative we could find.
We returned home inspired, determined to bring this movement to our community in North East Victoria.
In 2013, we launched Regional Organics - a home delivery service run from our garage in Bendigo where we were studying at the time - to the doors of our customers all the way to Wangaratta, Bright and Albury.
CARE FOR COMMUNITY: Kacey and Jerry O’Callaghan are committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle to the North East community. PHOTO: Wangaratta Wholefoods
It was never about profit for us; we just really wanted to get good quality food into the hands of our community.
The demand grew and in September 2014, we opened our first store in Wangaratta.
In 2024, we proudly celebrated 10 years with the opening of our second store in Wodonga.
Wholefoods is more than just a store.
It’s a family business built on integrity, passion and love.
With four children of our
own - Eva, Arlo, Remy, and Luca - we live the lifestyle we promote: clean food, lowtoxicity living and conscious choices.
Giving back is part of our values here at Wholefoods.
We proudly support local events, sponsor sporting teams, and o er everyday value through our loyalty program.
We work hard to secure great deals from our suppliers so we can pass those
savings on to you. And at the end of each year, we love preparing goodie bags to thank our most loyal customers.
For us, this is more than a business - it’s a way of life, and we’re so grateful to share it with a community that values wellness, connection and high quality food.
Wholefoods stores in Wangaratta and Wodonga are open seven days a week.
Filmmakers and story tellers encouraged to enter in the 2025 Benalla Shorts
■ Continued from Page 1
“At the premiere screening on the Sunday, 9 November 2025, filmmakers receive a gift bag with a name badges (so that they are identifiable) and they can converse with other filmmakers and the celebrity judges Krista Vendy and Bruce Hunt-Hughes before screening and after in the foyer for supper,” she said.
Australian actress Krista Vendy will return to judge this year’s festival alongside Bruce Hunt-Hughes.
Bruce Hunt-Hughes is highlyregarded facilitator and coach, who bases his work on more than 20 years of experience as a professional actor. His extensive experience working in theatre and on screen, includes a season with “The Streetcar named Desire” in London.
Bruce is a mainstay of Australian television and is known for his roles in “A Country Practice”, “Halifax F.P”, “HOWZAT Kerry Packer War”, “ The Portable Door” and countless others.
Short film entries are open until 31 July and submissions can be made via filmfreeway.
While Krista Vendy is largely known for her roles in popular television shows including Neighbours, where she played teacher Teresa “Tess” Bell, she has also appeared in numerous feature films.
com/BenallaShorts, with more information including terms and conditions available at benallashorts.com.
Ms Smith said she is so grateful for the support from the community.
“The only reason the festival exists is because of our wonderful local sponsors whom believe in the festival and it’s benefits to the wider community,” she said.
Continuing its close association with local businesses and community groups, anyone who would like to support Benalla Shorts financially or inkind, is encouraged to contact Anna Smith on 0429 367 236 or email benallashorts@outlook.com.
RETURN JUDGES: Celebrity judges Krista Vendy and Bruce Hunt-Hughes will take on the tough task of grading entrants.
NorthEast JOBS
Maintenance Coordinator
Are you a mechanic who is looking for more purpose in your work?
Do you enjoy having variety in your work and solving problems? Would you like to join a passionate team of people?
About us
Based in Wangaratta, Arboressence is a leading provider of professional arboriculture tree services, environmental land management and expert consultancy, ensuring best value to our clients across Victoria’s north-east and southern NSW.
Our purpose is to contribute to a greener future for communities by creating greater awareness about the value of trees, healthy green spaces and how they enhance people’s lives.
About you
Ideally you will have:
• Minimum Cert III Automotive or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years diesel motor mechanic and experience servicing, diagnosing, maintaining and repairing light vehicles, trucks and heavy machinery
• Great communication skills and enjoy working in a team environment
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Current driver’s license (preferably truck license)
Working with Arboressence
When you work with us you will receive:
• Attractive salary + annual profit share
• Access to training and development that will help you exceed in your role
• A highly autonomous team who look after each other to do what it takes to get the job done
• A professional work environment with high quality tools, equipment and facilities
To Apply
If you feel this role could be the one for you, send your cover letter detailing a little about you and why you’re the right fit along with your resume to admin@arboressence.com.au or if you would like a confidential conversation to learn more about this opportunity or to obtain a position description, please contact Pete on 0456 521 991.
Important Notice
Discrimination in Advertising is Unlawful
The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 2010 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or activity, industrial activity, parental or career status, physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception or granted an exception under the Act. As we could be legally liable if we print an unlawful advertisement we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisor, the Equal Opportunities Commission on 1800 134 142.
THE ROLE OF PUBLISHERS
Advertisers please note!
Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns.
Our Employment column is reserved for advertisements which carry a specific and genuine offer of employment.
Ads for 'Business Opportunities', 'Commission Only' training courses and employment services should be submitted under those headings.
Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trade Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval.
For further advice, contact:
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.
PRIVATE NURSING HOME
Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for ENROLLED NURSES
Aged Care experience required. A variety of shifts available. Email resumes to qualitymanager@meracare.com.au
PRIVATE NURSING HOME
Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for REGISTERED NURSES
Aged Care experience required. A variety of shifts available. Email resumes to qualitymanager@meracare.com.au
l cal Need staff?
Your local Wangaratta Chronicle has brought together local employers and local employees for generations ...and it is no different today. People prefer to work close to home, to save on transport costs, the frustration of travel and to be closer to family. Both our printed and digital newspapers have a highly engaged local audience looking for news, sport, local information
Illuminate any space with Kincrome’s lighting range
THE Kincrome lighting range is perfect for any trade professional - whether you’re in the workshop or out on an adventure.
From handy penlight torches through to under bonnet work lights, the Kincrome lighting range has it all.
These lights are heavy-duty in construction, feature long run times and highlight outputs.
They are perfect for your next job where a reliable lighting solution is required.
The wireless-charging lights are designed to work with Kincrome wireless charging pads and provide you with a designated space to charge your torch when you put it down, rather than needing to plug it in every time.
The charging pads feature patented pullout holders to charge your compatible mobile phone, and o er a safe magnetic home for your lights when not in use.
Take the Clamp Area Light, which features a 360 degree rotating and 270 degree pivoting head, and is operable for up to 24 hours.
With rubber-lined jaws which open up to 75mm wide, this light can clamp, magnetise or
By DAVID JAMES, NORTH
stand virtually anywhere.
Bloating after eating an indication of your health
Additionally, its USB rechargeable with a battery level indicator and is dustproof, water resistant, and impact and up to 2m drop resistant.
The Tripod Area Light flaunts dual 330 degree rotating and 90 degree pivoting heads, and is operable for up to 16 hours.
It’s an easy and e cient solution to light up your space, with a quick five second set-up and pack down.
Extendable from 1200-2240mm, this light is tailored to any task.
As with the Clamp Area Light, its USB rechargeable with a battery level indicator and is dustproof, water resistant, and impact resistant and up to 2m drop resistant.
EVER eaten something light and healthylike a fresh salad - and within the hour, feel like you’ve swallowed a balloon?
Your jeans suddenly feel too tight, and you’re wondering how you went from satisfied to six months pregnant (when you’re definitely not)?
You’re not alone.
And more importantly, bloating isn’t just something you have to live with.
Bloating is your gut’s way of waving a little red flag and saying, “something’s o in here”.
Here are a few likely culprits:
• Low stomach acid: When your digestion is sluggish, food can sit and ferment which causes gas and pressure.
• Bacterial overgrowth (SIBO): Too much bacteria in the small intestine where it doesn’t belong equates to bloating central.
• Mineral imbalances: If your sodium and potassium levels are out of whack, your body can retain fluid and your digestion slows.
But there’s good news; you can help your gut feel calm and balanced with a few simple shifts:
By
• Don’t guzzle water while eating as too much liquid can dilute your stomach acid.
• Try a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar in water 10–15 minutes before meals to fire up digestion.
• Include bitter foods like rocket, dandelion, or radicchio - they help stimulate digestive juices.
• Get moving: A gentle walk after dinner helps your digestive system do its job.
If you’re bloated more days than not, it’s time to tune in - not brush it o . Your body holds so much wisdom.
Let’s start listening to it.
To investigate your bloating symptoms, you can make an appointment at the North East Naturopathic Group on (03) 5798 3344.
STOMACH DISCOMFORT: There’s a reason you might be bloating after meals - luckily, with the right treatments, this isn’t something you have to endure. PHOTO: Inspiration GP/ Shutterstock.com
CHRISTOS MILIANKOS, NORTH EAST NATUROPATHIC GROUP
BRIGHTER SPACE: Get the job done with ease using Kincrome’s lighting range.
PHOTO: DC Studio/Shutterstock.com
EAST FASTENERS