Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre technical team leader Ben Fletcher was left with his trademark dreadlocks in hand following his haircut by Bully’s Barbershop’s Rachael Bigham on Wednesday, in support of the Leukemia Foundation World’s Greatest Shave. Ben eclipsed his fundraising target, so far raising over $6000 in support of patients and their families facing the devastating impact of blood cancer.
PHOTO: Anita McPherson
An estimated $70,000 was raised to support local mental health initiatives, through Saturday evening’s inaugural Mitsubishi Wangaratta Project 365 Gala Ball.
A spin-off from the concerts previously staged by Project 365 and its band U Can Cry, the gala ball was a chance to gather 230 people for a night of dining, dancing and a
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@
nemedia.com.au
monster auction - and most importantly, to continue the important conversations which have been shown to have an impact on local mental health.
Project 365 founder Pete
Rourke said the evening was beyond anything he had imagined when the gala ball concept was suggested.
“I’m still getting over the way it was so well received; it took some time to come down from all the phone calls and messages,” he said.
“We were hoping for somewhere around $45,000 to $50,000, so to raise
$70,000 was amazing.
“The generosity and the way people contributed was fantastic.”
One story from the night which illustrated the level of local connection to the Project 365 cause centres on the final auction item which was offered on Saturday night.
“Two days out from the
event, some friends of ours called and said their 15-year-old daughter had been working on a project as a surprise, and had left it on our back porch,” Pete said.
That project was a chopping board made by young Mia Bernardi, which she had inscribed with the Project 365 logo.
“She said she wanted to
donate it, and on the night I thought I’d have a go at auctioning it off myself; I started the bidding at $70, it quickly went to $1000, and rose to $2000,” Pete said.
The item was purchased by Wangaratta’s Maxishine Car Wash, which plans to put it on display at its Appin Street premises.
■ Continued page 2
By ANITA MCPHERSON
Ben Fletcher has shed his dreadlocks and a few kilos in the process, following his Leukemia Foundation World’s Greatest Shave haircut, which took place in front of the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre (WPACC) on Wednesday afternoon.
The centre’s technical team leader who has had long hair since his teens said goodbye to it this week to raise money in support of patients and their families with blood cancer.
cheer him on including family
and friends, with Rachael Bigham from the Bully’s Barbershop team standing by with the clippers.
Before his first haircut in 15 years began, Ben addressed the crowd, saying he was overwhelmed by the show of support he had received.
He said a special thank you to Bully’s Barbershop for closing early to come and help, and to his colleagues at WPACC for their fundraising support and for bringing everyone together on the day.
“The massive support that has
“The stories I’ve been being told from people who’ve been helped by the Leukemia Foundation, or who have been affected through friends or family with blood cancer, the number of donations, and the amount of personal support has been absolutely heartwarming.
“The biggest thing is that at 3.30pm today, we have absolutely smashed past the $5000 total I was aiming for (reaching $5500) and the fundraising page will stay open for a couple of days so we might even reach that $6000 mark
was 13, Rachael described him as having a heart of gold, and said it was an honour and a privilege to be a small snippet in his story.
Within a few minutes the shave was complete and Ben held his dreadlocks in his hands, saying the first thing he noticed was how strange it was to feel the wind touch his head.
He said he hasn’t decided yet what his next hairstyle will be, but it will no doubt be something which reflects his big personality.
Ben’s fundraising has now exceeded $6000 and it continues to climb, with donations welcome at worldsgreatestshave.com/fun-
■ From front page
Chris Camm, manager of Maxishine Wangaratta, said the business’ Sydney-based owner had purchased the chopping board after putting in a surprise bid.
“Project 365 means a lot to us - it’s a great cause to get behind,” Chris said.
“Pete sold us with his story, and we couldn’t support it enough.”
Pete said he was blown away by the continuing generosity.
“I’ve had some moments in the last four or five years, but to auction this chopping board contributed by a young girl for $2000, to raise money to assist our community, was really special,” he said.
It was announced on Saturday night that another round of 24 mental health first aid scholarships would soon be made available to local small to medium businesses, as a result of previous Project 365 fundraising.
The scholarships will be overseen by The Mental Health Coach and its founder, Nick McEwan-Hall.
Major sponsor Mitsubishi Wangaratta has also announced that it will invite Project 365 to speak at its Melbourne and Adelaide bases, to further spread the group’s message that ‘it’s okay to not be okay’.
Pete said there were no plans yet for use of the $70,000 raised through the gala ball - but there were plenty of ideas.
In the meantime, organisers are reflecting on the success of a night which meant even more than the funds raised to support the community.
“I spoke to so many people on the night, and they’re all engaged in this, and they were all there for a reason,” Pete said.
“I can’t see that energy dropping away; it’s a real positive coming out of what is a big community issue.
“I’m so proud of everyone in the foundation, and the community in general.
“We really do live in the best town in Australia when it comes to giving to help others.”
More wombat crossings in the CBD and a pedestrian-operated signal to help people cross Wangaratta’s busy Reid Street will be installed during October to December.
Two wombat crossings, which are essentially raised zebra crossings, will be installed on Ford Street at the Ovens Street and Murphy Street ends.
The Ovens Street end crossing will be located at the Ovens Street roundabout and the existing zebra crossing will be removed, while the Murphy Street end crossing will replace the existing zebra crossing.
Another will be installed on Faithful Street, located mid-block between Ovens and Murphy
streets, near Victoria Parade.
A pedestrian-operated traffic signal will be installed on Reid Street, mid-block between Ovens and Murphy streets, at the existing uncontrolled crossing point.
Rural City of Wangaratta was successful in receiving $800,000 through the Safe System Pedestrian Infrastructure Program (SSPIP) to deliver safety improvements for pedestrians.
These upgrades are part of a $23 million statewide investment to improve safety for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
The project supports council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy 2020–2030 and the Wangaratta Project CBD Masterplan, both shaped by community in -
put and prioritised actions.
The CBD is a busy area with high foot traffic due to its mix of office, retail and commercial spaces.
A council spokesperson said installing wombat crossings at key points will boost safety for pedestrians and freight vehicles, while improving connectivity across shopping, dining, business and recreational zones.
They said crash data from January 2018 to December 2022 highlights locations where safety upgrades are needed.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant, said these upgrades are a vital step in making the CBD safer and more accessible for everyone, especially pedestrians.
She said they will rely on the
community’s patience as they deliver these important improvements.
The first of two community drop-in sessions to discuss the project took place yesterday, with another planned for Tuesday, 26 August, from 12 noon to 1pm. Traffic management measures will be in place throughout the construction period, including temporary road and footpath closures and restricted parking. Council is working to minimise disruption and maintain access to local businesses and services.
For more information and updates visit www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Development/Our-projects/Safe-System-Pedestrian-Infrastructure-Program
They remark that council may consider reducing the speed limit from 80km/h to 60km/h within the town.
The development’s location would be within walking distance to a range of community facilities located throughout the township of Boorhaman.
Applicants note that the development is appropriately located as to promote opportunities for active modes of non-car dependant transport and furthermore is developed and designed to allow for the safe movement of pedestrian traffic within and between neighbourhoods.
The location is coined as a natural extension of the Boorhaman township and the proposal is consistent with the Wangaratta Planning Scheme.
A planning permit for the site at 1473 Boorhaman Road will not be decided upon by council before 2 September.
or new service concepts that support the existing café offering are highly encouraged.
Winton Wetlands is located approximately 7.5 kilometers north-east of Benalla.
For more information and to register your interest visit www.tenders.vic.gov.au/tender/view?id=295642
Expressions of Interest close 2pm 11/09/2025 www.deeca.vic.gov.au
Customer Service Centre 136 186 F60016
By SIMONE KERWIN
Expressions of interest are being sought for a tenant to manage the Mokoan Hub at Winton Wetlands Reserve.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) took over land management of the reserve on 1 August, after previous committee of management the Odonata Foundation announced in June that it would relinquish management of the 9000-hectare reserve.
DEECA is now seeking a tenant for Mokoan Hub, which comprises café dining and office facilities, through the expression of interest process currently underway.
DEECA Hume regional director Clare Kiely said with great views across the wetlands - which
is Australia’s largest restoration project - the hub was a unique venue which offered a business opportunity for prospective tenants.
“Proposals that include partnerships, joint ventures or new
business ideas that support the existing café offering are highly encouraged,” Ms Kiely said.
The hub includes café dining and function facilities, with a modern commercial kitchen.
An additional large room can
host up to 80 people, and can be divided from the café.
The outdoor dining area can seat up to 60 people, and overlooks a natural playground featuring a 40-metre flying fox.
An open plan office at the rear of the building which includes two offices is also part of the lease, as well as a board-style meeting room.
“This is a great opportunity for a business-minded individual or group to help influence the future of the wetlands,” Ms Kiely said.
The Mokoan Hub was officially opened on 16 May, 2015, won the national sustainable building award in 2016, and has been a focal point for visitors to the wetlands.
CELEBRATING HISTORY:
GALEN CATHOLIC COLLEGE WILL MARK ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ON AUGUST 29 AND 30, AND IS WELCOMING ANYONE WITH LINKS TO CHAMPAGNAT COLLEGE, ST JOSEPH’S OR GALEN TO BE PART OF THE WEEKEND’S EVENTS.
Expressions of interest in tenancy of the hub close at 2pm on Thursday, 11 September.
Excitement is building as Galen Catholic College prepares to mark its 50th anniversary next week, with celebrations set to bring together students, staff, alumni, and the wider community.
The festivities begin on Friday, 29 August with student-led college tours, which have already sold out.
They will be followed by the highlight of the weekend - the gala evening at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway from 7pm on the Friday.
The evening promises plenty of opportunities to reconnect, reminisce, and dance through the decades, with live entertainment provided by local musician and Galen
alumnus Lachlan Routledge.
On Saturday, 30 August, the community is invited to attend an anniversary mass to be held in Galen’s performing arts centre from 10am, followed by light refreshments in the resource centre.
The college is inviting all community members to be part of the milestone celebration
- whether they’ve been students or staff members at Champagnat, St Joseph’s or Galen, or are part of the current school community.
Final tickets for the gala evening and anniversary mass are on sale now, and close this Sunday, 24 August.
Secure yours today through Eventbrite at bit.ly/Galen50th.
The federal government has announced changes to age pension payments from 20 September 2025 including a lift on the previously frozen deeming rates by 0.50 per cent and an increase to the age pension of up to $29.70 for singles and $22.40 each for couples.
National Seniors Australia (NSA) chief executive officer Chris Grice said it’s a mixed bag for pensioners. All pensioners will receive a boost to their payments as a result of indexation to the age pension – the most substantial in two years.
However, some part-rate and full rate pensioners will have this increase offset by the lift to deeming rates.
“Deeming rates have been frozen for three years, this has spared pensioners a significant drop in income as interest rates and everyday living costs soared,” Mr Grice said.
“NSA called for a continuation of the freeze with any lift to be modest while waiting for interest rates to fall.
“While the lift on the freeze will not be welcomed, we recognise the government has attempted to cushion the impact by aligning changes with indexation to the age pension.
“By timing increases to deeming rates with indexation and doing this slowly as interest rates reduce, this avoids what could have been a sharper impact on pensioners.
“As we have said consistently and still maintain, changes to deeming rates should be introduced in a measured, incremental, and transparent way.”
From 20 September 2025, the age pension, veteran payment, disability support pension and carer payment will receive an increase because of indexation.
The maximum rate of the single age pension will rise by $29.70 per fortnight for singles (taking it from $1149.00 to $1178.70) and for couples, by $22.40 each per fortnight (taking the combined payment from $1732.20 to $1777).
“In respect to indexation, pensioners and other support payment recipients will welcome the increase to their fortnightly payments,” Mr Grice said.
“It will help give that little bit extra in the pocket and purse for groceries, fuel, and other competing necessities.
“Age pensioners are still feeling cost of living pressures and need to be supported through measures to help improve their standard of living, such as exempting employment income from the age pension income test, and NSA will keep fighting for this.
“We acknowledge the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek, for her considered and consultative approach to the age pension adjustments and look forward to continued discussions with the minister ahead of March when the pension is next indexed.”
A large Vietnam Veterans Day gathering at the Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch on Monday reflected on the contributions of Australians, including many locals, in the Vietnam War.
Held in the 2/24th Battalion function room at the Templeton Street RSL base, the service marked the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966, and recalled the contributions of almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
REFLECTING: Russell Godde spoke about his experiences in Vietnam during Monday’s service at the
RSL Sub-Branch. TIME TOGETHER: Vietnam veterans
at Monday’s
Russell recalled, just over 60 years ago in June 1965, reporting to the Wangaratta Railway Station to head to Seymour, and then to Puckapunyal for three months’ basic training.
Having just finished his plumbing apprenticeship,
Guest speaker at Monday’s service was Russell Godde, who was posted to 17th Construction Squadron, Royal Australian Engineers. His recollections brought nods of recognition from the gathering, as he spoke about his birth date being drawn out in the ballot for conscription to National Service.
he was directed to the Royal Australian Engineers, and the School of Military Engineering, where he learnt “how to build things and then blow them up”.
An article in The Sun early the following year informed Russell and his fellow National Servicemen that Aus-
tralia would be sending more troops to Vietnam, and 17th Construction Squadron was to be among them. He spoke about travelling to Vietnam aboard the HMAS Sydney (or Vung Tau Ferry), his squadron’s involvement in a mortar attack at base camp at Nui Dat on the eve
of the Battle of Long Tan, and what must have been a jolting return to Australia following 12 months spent in Vietnam - during which he had missed the arrival of his first daughter.
“There was no debrief; we just came back and were expected to go back to where we were two years before,” Russell said.
“I didn’t face the protests, though - they started after I got home.”
Russell said the memories of his two years of National Service were “still there even though it’s 60 years ago”.
“It’s great that it’s recognised with this day,” he said.
Several wreaths were laid
during the service, which also included a reading of Wangaratta’s Vietnam honour roll by RSL secretary Lieutenant Colonel Andy McDonell, recitation of The Ode by RSL president Lieutenant General (Retired) Ash Power, a minute’s silence for the fallen, prayers from Fr Nathan Verallo, and the national anthem.
The afternoon also included the drawing of a raffle for a ‘Remember Clock’ made by local veteran Peter Sedgwick using Tasmanian Lomandra timber.
The raffle raised $2800 which will go towards the Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch’s veteran support efforts.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
North East Mums For Peace will host a peaceful community gathering this Sunday, 24 August from 3pm at King George Gardens to stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza.
The event will begin with a short speech, followed by a family-friendly walk around the block along Faithful Street, Murphy Street, and Reid Street, before returning to the gardens.
Participants are encouraged to use the footpaths and pedestrian crossings, and signs will be available for those who wish to carry one.
A North East Mums For Peace spokesperson said this is an event for everyone, from the elderly to children.
“It’s a peaceful protest and very family friendly,” they said.
“We welcome anyone in the community who believes in peace, justice, and the protection of human rights.”
The group is calling on families, young people, and
individuals of all backgrounds to join the walk.
“For those who have been watching silently and wondering how they can help, then this is it,” the spokesperson said.
The purpose of the protest
is to raise awareness about the ongoing genocide in Gaza and to call for an end to the violence.
North East Mums for Peace hopes to amplify the voices of those suffering and urge leaders to act for peace and justice.
“As mothers, carers, and community members, we cannot stay silent while familiesespecially children - are living through such torture,” the spokesperson said.
“Every child deserves safety, shelter, and the chance
to grow up free from fear.
“Taking a stand is our way of saying that what is happening is unacceptable, and that we must work together for peace, justice, and the protection of innocent lives.”
Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man with murder following the death of a woman in Cobram on Tuesday morning.
A 45-year-old Cobram man was charged with murder on Wednesday and was set to face Shepparton Magistrates’ Court in the afternoon.
The charge follows an incident in Cobram on 19 August when a 32-year-old Cobram woman was killed.
Emergency services were initially called to a Christie Street address about 5am and located the woman.
Two young children inside the address were not physically injured during the incident.
Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) has launched its 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, setting a clear direction for the next three years to deliver exceptional healthcare for the North East community.
Developed with input from staff, patients, residents, community members, partners, and the Department of Health, the plan outlines four key commitments of: exceptional care; engaged people and culture; sustaina-
bility; and collaboration and partnerships.
Board chair Ruth Kneebone said the plan was a significant milestone for NHW, and had been prepared after extensive community consultation with hundreds of public survey responses and nine community events, as well as a comprehensive internal staff survey to ensure the voices of the workforce were embedded in the planning process.
Ms Kneebone said the engagement had shaped the key priorities and directions of the plan, reflecting a shared vision for delivering exceptional care for the community.
“We are proud to share a strategic plan that reflects the voices of our community and our people,” she said.
“It is grounded in what matters most – delivering safe, high-quality care, supporting our workforce, and preparing for the future
health needs of our region.”
The plan sets priorities including:
• improving access to timely, safe and effective care across the North East;
• strengthening partnerships with First Nations communities to achieve equitable health outcomes;
• supporting wellness in the community and expanding care at home services;
• investing in workforce development, leadership and a
safe, inclusive workplace;
• driving environmental sustainability, financial responsibility, and digital transformation; and
• building strong partnerships with local health services, community organisations and the Hume Local Health Service Network.
NHW chief executive officer Libby Fifis said the plan was designed to be a “living document” that would guide decisions and actions across
the organisation.
“This plan is about more than setting goals – it’s about making measurable improvements in the health and wellbeing of our community,” she said.
“We will report on our progress and work together to ensure we deliver on what we’ve committed to.”
The NHW 2025–2028 Strategic Plan is available online at: northeasthealth.org.au/ about/reports-publications.
By LYNN ELDER
FOR our newest rodeo star Tup Forge, her feet have barely touched the ground since arriving back on the family farm at Oxley, after a thrilling win in the women’s saddle bronc ride on the world stage in the United States last month.
As the first non-American to take out the title at one of the biggest events in the US at the July Cheyenne Frontier Days, Wyoming, the media attention has been frenetic.
With a broad smile as big as Texas and her trade mark plait of long dark hair, 28-year-old Tup has amassed a new legion of fans here and abroad.
She agreed it had been a whirlwind period since her big win but appreciated the grounding effect of arriving back home this month.
“It has been crazy,” said Tup.
“I’ve only been home a couple of days, and I have settled back into work.
“I just feel like the same little old Tup from Oxley, I don’t think it’s even sunk in yet.”
As the media focus fades away, she is able to draw breath and reflect on those two rides that made her such a centre of attention.
“I realised I had won once I saw the last girl ride,” Tup recalled.
“There was only four of us that made eight second rides in the first round and I was lucky enough to win round one.
“And once I got my second horse ride for eight seconds as well, I knew only a few other girls could pass me.”
She was the only female to ride both her horses, winning rounds one and two.
OUT OF THE CHUTE: Tup Forge on her first ride in the saddle bronc on Excalibur a big black horse which gave her the winning first round.
Tup agreed bronc riding was not only about physical fitness but also mental toughness which enabled her to focus on the two rides.
“Yes, that absolutely helped me,” she said.
“It’s all a mental game and I’ve been very lucky in my years of competing to learn how to control nerves and how to set my mind before stepping over the horse in the chutes.
“The night before I rode round one, I was fairly edgy but once I woke up in the morning, I knew I had a job to do and I was ready to go get it done.”
Asked to describe what goes through her mind for that short period, “I’m not sure how to explain it,” Tup said.
“My mind is very blank (I don’t ever hear anyone or the crowd, I only ever hear the horse) but also thinking of all the things I need to be doing as the horse pulls each move.
“I really enjoyed the first horse (Excalibur), he was a pleasure to ride, big and strong and the second horse (Red Flag Collector) was very snappy and heavy in the front which made it very hard for me to get back to where I should have been.
“I did think I was gone for a few times on him.”
It was an outstanding achievement that put Tup in front.
“Yes, this was such an amazing feeling having a 73 point lead for the win,” she said.
Tup encourages other young women to have a go – albeit with the right training and fitness.
“Any young girl who is wanting to try it out should 100 per cent give it a go,” she enthused.
“You never know where it will take you.
“It’s not one for the faint hearted though - you need to be committed.”
As someone who is always up for a challenge, Tup made her debut as a fill-in jockey for the wild horse races while she was there.
“I was so super excited to be asked, I jumped in boots and all with a quick crash course out in the car park,” she said, adding, “We got second.”
Reflecting on her major saddle bronc achievement, “I only dreamed of bringing home the gold buckle for Australia, it’s so surreal to actually have done it,” Tup said.
“I’m proud of the other Aussie girls as well, it’s a big thing for us to go over there and compete on the other side of the world against the best of the best, it was very overwhelming the whole time.”
Her impressions of the event overall – were massive crowds with more people than Tup had ever seen in her life and a well-run event with the most spectacular shows. The experience has left a life-
long impact on her to “Never give up and follow your dreams.”
“I’ve always said believe you can and you’re half way there and I think I’ve proved that to myselfanything is possible,” she said.
For Wangaratta-born Tup (Tuppence) Forge raised on a cattle property in the King Valley, she was destined to follow this dream from an early age.
“I spent countless hours in the saddle growing up and still continue to do that today as I work alongside mum and dad (Graham and Anne-Maree) on the family property,” she said.
“I didn’t really have a choice growing up to not love horses and the country life.
“I never played your usual sports because weekends and after school was always filled with chores around the farm and mustering which was much more fun anyway.”
Tup enjoyed a brief stint in central Queensland on a cattle station which she loved.
“I enjoy time with my working dogs, and I spend a lot of time with my 93 year old grandma (who also lives on the farm),” she said.
What is next for this world title holder?
“I have no idea - keep on building the family farm as well as holding more events,” said Tup.
“I’m very spontaneous so if something exciting pops up (just like this did 18 months ago) I’ll probably give it a go.”
If Tup could speak to her 14-yearold self, what would she say?
“Take more risks and step out of your comfort zone,” she enthused.
“You really have no idea where it could take you and don’t ever let anyone make you think you can’t do something - because you can.”
There’s nothing quite like local sports finals.
From the sweet scent of freshly-cut grass and the warm kiss of the spring sun, to the anticipation and excitement of who will be up at the final siren, this time of year truly is special.
A host of local sporting league are entering their finals series either this weekend or in the very near future.
Ovens and King football and netball, and AWFA soccer commence their knockouts this weekend, with Ovens and Murray football and netball, NEBA baseball, HAW hockey, and so much more right around the corner.
As the wider sporting community con dense at the finals venues, it creates a melt ing pot which exemplifies what it means to be part of the collective sporting conscious ness.
Communities congregate around local sport, and provide a valuable meeting place for friends and family to catch up and con nect.
From reliving glory days at the can bar, sharing a hot dog or bucket of chips from the canteen, or cheering as a part of the larger club, the weekend’s sporting fixtures are a barometer for how healthy a community is at any point in time.
While passion and local sporting finals are inextricable, as indeed all finals, it’s important to not let emotion overrule common decency.
Barrack loudly but without abuse, play hard but fair, respect the match officials and thank those volunteers who make it possible to have these sporting days on at all. It’s something which is easy to take for granted, but the fact we can hold these finals and play sport as a whole in our little corner of the world should never be underestimated, and always celebrated.
The current handwringing about socalled gender ideologies and Respectful Relationships teaching is a barely evolved form of the same regressive activism of 20 years ago.
Its efforts to negate and deny the existence of people within our community is far more harmful than society’s efforts to recognise and value all the people that make our community what it is today.
Wil Wallace, Wangaratta
My wife and I are 80 years old and we do not do apps, so the parking app is out.
The alternatives are buying a voucher or trying to find free parking.
Parking is now set at $1.20 an hour.
There are three voucher plans, monthly $15, six monthly $50 and yearly $100.
That is equivalent to 12.5 hours, 41.66 hours and 83.33 hours of parking for one car.
We have two cars so we would need two vouchers, so the cost would be double.
Now let’s look at our actual usage.
We shop at Aldi once a week, but are finished before 9am, so no parking liability.
We only use the on-street parking for going to the doctor, chemist and maybe a few unforeseen things.
On average, over the last few years, the two of us would go to the doctor a total of nine times, for a total of nine hours, the chemist six times (my wife uses a chemist that is not in the CBD), total three hours, and let’s throw in an unforeseen 15 hours a year.
So that is 27 hours out of the 166.66 hours paid, for two vouchers.
I would think many of the Wangaratta residents over 65 would be in a similar circumstance.
And a single person would be in a similar position with only one voucher.
The other option is to find free parking, and that can be done, but it means
maps, photographs of significant buildings and other information, to provide some inspiration. Make a submission via the Rural City of
website or contact the Wangaratta Historical Society via email at info@wangarattahistoricalsociety.org.au.
the elderly are walking much farther to their destination, which could be doctors, chemists, etc.
Depending on how fit the elderly person is, the longer walks to and from their car could offer more chances for falls, due hazards on footpaths and car parks, to longer exposure to bad weather.
Most elderly are already on fixed income so the parking voucher just adds to the financial stress.
Is the council targeting the elderly to increase the council income?
I don’t think the council has thought the parking plan through for the whole community.
One suggestion would be a $50 yearly household voucher per elderly family that would cover the household cars.
William Martin, Wangaratta
I welcome the opening of expressions of interest to reopen the Mokoan Hub at Winton Wetlands, urging strong community involvement in shaping the site’s future.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is seeking a tenant to manage the hub’s café, dining, meeting, and office facilities, with expressions of interest open until Thursday, 11 September.
The abrupt closure of the hub last year left locals frustrated and disillusioned, with staff losing their jobs overnight, volunteers stood down, and important environmental programs suspended.
People were shocked by how quickly the
hub was shut down and how little information was shared.
We cannot afford to see decisions of this scale made behind closed doors again.
The community deserves transparency, respect, and a real say in what happens next.
There is cautious optimism that the new process could deliver a better outcome.
The Winton Wetlands is environmentally and culturally significant, as well as a valuable tourism destination.
Locals are determined to protect that value.
I’ll be fighting to make sure they are central to shaping the next chapter for the hub and the wetlands.
I encourage local businesses and community groups to put their hands up.
This is a unique opportunity for locals with vision and passion to step forward.
I strongly encourage anyone with an interest in the site to consider applying.
More information and tender details are available at: tenders.vic.gov.au/tender/ view?id=295642
Annabelle Cleeland, Nationals’ MP for Euroa
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
Facebook users this week commented on two local pubs’ thoughts on the proposal of a four-day week for workers while maintaining a full week’s pay.
Megan Callus: Obviously it doesn’t suit every workplace and every situation and no one is saying it will, clearly it’s not going to work for face-to-face service requirementslike pubs and health care. Ignoring or caning the idea though because it doesn’t suit every situation only serves to stifle progress where this model can be beneficial to both workplaces and employees.
Neil John Maclean: They are too lazy already, just to become even lazier. If decided upon it should be 10hrs Monday- Thursday Facebook users this week also commented on consultations taking place on Victoria’s proposed working from home laws.
Stephen English: No plain and simple no or try this then I’m a plumber you ring me as you have a toilet over flowing sorry I say
your say
I’m working from home today be there in 2 days in the mean time use a bucket Look get back to the offices get back to whatever you do and let’s get this country moving again Facebook users this week also commented on the imminent closure of Pangerang Community Hub’s childcare.
Carolan Collier: Why
Michelle Tremellen: Oh no
Nadine Ringwood-Wheatley: This is so sad
Facebook users this week also commented on Wangaratta Performing Art Centre’s Ben Fletcher cutting off his locks in support of Leukemia Foundation.
Cindy Knight: great job Facebook users also commented on a new report finding a downward trend in overdose deaths in Wangaratta despite statewide record.
Robert K Fisher: I wonder why mmmm Marjorie Bradley: Still far too many
Chronicle 13K likes • 15K followers
Locals are being encouraged to take part in Ride for the Kids this October, to support families living with childhood brain conditions.
Ride for the Kids is a virtual cycling challenge which runs across October to raise vital funds and awareness for Brainwave Australia, a national charity supporting kids and families impacted by childhood brain conditions.
Every kilometre and dollar raised goes to support essential therapy, life-saving equipment, and moments of joy for the more than 1600 children and their families supported by Brainwave.
The number of families approaching Brainwave Australia for support has doubled over the last three years, raising the importance of Ride for the Kids as a means to support these families.
All ages and abilities are encouraged to participate for free by signing up at rideforthekids.org.au
For more information about where the funds will be utilised, visit brainwave. org.au
WANGARATTA council’s recent planting events have seen strong community participation and environmental impact, with a total of 1787 local native plants successfully planted across three events.
Stephen Swart, council’s director sustainability and culture, said Sunday’s event at the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, Tarrawingee Station, drew around 80 attendees, with the Moyhu Lions Club generously providing a barbecue for volunteers and participants.
“During the week, several school groups joined in the effort, including Wangaratta High School, Everton Primary, Carraragarmungee Primary, and Whitfield Primary, contributing to the planting and learning about local biodiversity,” Mr Swart said.
“Council’s seasonal goal is to plant approximately 7000 indigenous native plants into bush reserves.
“With half that number already in the ground, the program is well underway.
“While we’re not seeking additional help from schools or businesses at this stage, another planting event is planned along One Mile Creek with a local school, and there will be more opportunities for community involvement next season.”
A Wangaratta man admitting to multiple gun and drug charges found himself back in custody after falling out with staff at a drug rehabilitation centre, a court has heard.
The 21-year-old appeared from the custody box at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday after his most recent arrest on Sunday.
After being bailed to attend Odyssey House on 8 July, the man was told he was “no longer welcome” by staff at the rehab centre after a four-week stay and returned to Wangaratta.
He notified police of his change
of address after his return, but hung up on an officer before submitting a formal application.
He was arrested at his Wangaratta home on 17 August.
The 21-year-old will be facing at least another month behind bars after pleading guilty to the possession of multiple firearms and a sword as police served a firearms prohibition order upon him at his Wangaratta address on 30 April.
The man told officers he didn’t have any firearms in the home, but he had a machete next to his bed.
Police searched the home and
found a handgun and a sawn-off rifle with an altered serial number in the bedroom.
Magazines of handgun ammunition, shotgun ammunition, marijuana and bank and identification cards to 10 different people were also found.
The 21-year-old became agitated during the police search, threatening officers and pushing a detective.
He was handcuffed and arrested, making further threats to police.
The man had his application for bail refused later that day and he would be behind bars until he was released on 8 July.
The 21-year-old also admitted to possessing a box cutter and ecstasy after he was caught riding a bike without a helmet on Mitchell Avenue in the early hours of 8 February.
Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said things fell apart “catastrophically” for his client after relapsing into drugs.
Mr Clancy said the 21-year-old became paranoid and feared people were “out to get him”, so he armed himself with weapons.
“It was an incredibly foolish thing to do,” he said.
Mr Clancy said his client had a falling out with staff at Odyssey House due to numerous mental health issues and the rehab centre’s “rigid” routine, which became too much for him.
The court heard the 21-year-old’s offending breached a County Court imposed community corrections order, after he was sentenced to six months in prison.
Magistrate Ian Watkins remanded the man in custody for a community corrections order assessment and he will be sentenced on 1 September.
More than 20 participants took part in a walk around the Wangaratta CBD to visit its unnamed laneways, as part of an event facilitated by the Wangaratta Historical Society and led by surveyors Rob Steel and Greg Thompson.
The lane walk on Saturday, 16 August began with a brief introduction and explanation of the importance of naming laneways, both historically, and for the purpose of identifying precise locations for emergency services.
The Wangaratta Historical Society is currently collating ideas for naming the unnamed laneways in Wangaratta, taking in to
account the historic use of the surrounding land, housing, businesses and people, to ensure a connection with the past is maintained for future generations.
Once finalised, a submission will be made to the Rural City of Wangaratta for consideration.
The Wangaratta Historical Society urges interested members of the community to become involved and either make submissions via the Rural City of Wangaratta website, or by making contact with the Wangaratta Historical Society via email at info@ wangarattahistoricalsociety. org.au.
GOTAFE is inviting community members to come along to the Wangaratta Open Day this Sunday to discover education and employment pathways.
The open day at the Docker Street campus runs from 10am to 2pm and will offer attendees the opportunity to see firsthand the options for education and training in Wangaratta.
Teachers will host a series of targeted information ses-
sions for courses, while careers advisors and enquiry staff will be available to help prospective students with their course selection and applications.
Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) alumni and student ambassador Kate Reid will be in attendance to answer questions and share her experiences studying with GOTAFE.
Since completing her course, Kate has progressed
in her career and is now studying a Bachelor of Nursing at La Trobe University while working for National Patient Transport and juggling parenting responsibilities.
“GOTAFE gave me the foundation to build a meaningful career in nursing,” she said.
“I’m excited to be returning to GOTAFE’s Docker Street campus for the open day to share my journey, answer questions, and show attendees around the place that
helped shape my future.”
This year’s open day will look slightly different, with the event to be held in GO-
TAFE’s Flexible Learning Centre on the Cusack Street side of the Docker Street campus.
GOTAFE executive director student experience, Laura Baker, encouraged prospective students and their families to come along and see what TAFE is all about.
“Open day is often the first step our students take in
finding out what GOTAFE is like and the course that suits them best,” she said.
“It’s a chance to see how vocational education can open real pathways to in-demand industries, with supportive teachers and modern facilities.”
Registrations for GOTAFE’s Open Day event in Wangaratta is now open - head to gotafe.vic.edu.au/whats-on/ open-days-2025 for more information.
Prizes
By SIMONE KERWIN
Wangaratta Library transported its regular Story Time session to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Tuesday, as part of celebrations for Children’s Book Week. Children and youth services officer Tanya Hopper led the event on stage at the WPACC, with many youngsters taking the chance to dress in costume as their favourite book characters.
Primavera 2023: Young Australian Artists exhibition opening
Primavera 2023: Young Australian Artists, guest curated by Talia Smith, is touring across the country, and visiting the Wangaratta Art Gallery until 19 October.
The exhibition features work by young and emerging artists, all under the age of 35, working across video, painting, sculpture, installation and text, considering themes of protest, perseverance, identity and history.
Talia Smith will open the exhibition on Saturday, 23 August at 4pm at Wangaratta Art Gallery, with the launch to also celebrate the opening of Us, an exhibition by Gillian Bencke, presented in Gallery 2. All are welcome and free tickets can be booked by visiting www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au.
Join SES members both past and present at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Saturday, 23 August from 6pm as the service commemorates half a century of serving the community.
The event will be an opportunity to connect with current and past members, share stories, and reminisce about the incredible impact the SES has had over the years, and to honour the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in the Wangaratta SES.
Tickets are $40 per person and include a two-course dinner, awards presentations, raffles and a live band (with drinks at bar prices) available on Eventbrite https://tinyurl.com/yhrer9ru.
The annual Chiltern Antique Fair, attracting dealers and enthusiasts from around the country, will be held at the Chiltern Memorial Hall this weekend.
By ANITA McPHERSON
A COLLECTION of artworks which celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of eucalyptus leaves by Albury-based artist Karen Brown, is on display at the Art Gallery on Ovens.
Karen invites the viewer to notice the colours and textures of the leaves which can be found all around us, imagining the smell and sound of them being crunched beneath your feet.
A resident artist at the gallery, Karen says she continues to be inspired by the ordinary and the overlooked, encouraging us all to put down our phones, look around and pay closer attention to the world.
“It’s great to appreciate what’s right in front of us - the things we sometimes take for granted,” she said.
“I love the details - if you look closely, each leaf is unique and almost like a mini landscape in itself.”
Karen’s realistic and intricately detailed artworks are created using coloured and graphite pencils as well as acrylic paint, and they encourage you to look closely through the layers and discover what lies beneath.
The event showcases a full range of antiques from fine china and porcelain to furnishings, jewellery, artworks and a range of everyday older items and collectables to attract every enthusiast. It opens on Friday night at 6.30pm and will then be open on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, with entry on Saturday and Sunday $5 per adult (accompanied children admitted free).
The Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club conducts
This exhibition also includes a selection of works in stippled ink capturing curious and characterful local birdlife.
There are professionally framed
a monthly Happy Dogs Walk to promote and encourage dogs to be involved in social interaction with their furry friends in public places.
The next walk will be held on Sunday, 24 August commencing at 9.30am from Batchelors Green (Lions Club Park), with dog owners invited to come along for a leisurely three to four kilometre walk on gentle pathways and footpaths (no more than one hour duration), with coffee to follow as available.
All are welcome to enjoy the social outing with more information available by calling Ron on 0417 644 877 or Kevin on 0418 221 260.
artworks both in larger and smaller scale, along with a selection of unframed, original artworks to browse.
Beneath Your Feet is being held at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street until Monday, 1 September, open
The Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available.
Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.
www.corcoranparker.com.au
Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm. An informal opening celebration will be held on Saturday, August 23 from 12pm to 2pm, with all welcome to come and meet the artist and see the exhibition.
Take a trip down memory lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street.
The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm and entry is free, with exhibitions updated regularly.
For more information email wangarattahistorialsociety@gmail.com or drop in and have a chat.
Hume Bank and Geelong Bank have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore a merger that would bring together two customer-owned banks with shared values and deep regional roots.
Bringing the two banks together would create one of the largest regional customer owned banks with $2.4b in assets, a network of 16 branches, over 60,000 customers and around 200 staff.
The combined bank would gain greater scale and resilience, enabling further investments in technology, product innovation and customer experience according to the announcement made this week.
It would also strengthen the merged entity’s ability to respond to an evolving and competitive banking landscape.
Both banks have a shared vision to remain customer-owned and embedded in the community.
Hume Bank chair, Kerry Grigg said that the formation of a larger single organisation, with Geelong Bank as part of Hume Bank, would enable combined resources, expertise and strengths to deliver better value, products and services.
“Our proposed merger is about creating a stronger foundation for both banks to enable us to reinvest more into our products, services and communities,” Ms Grigg said.
“What’s special here is that both banks are deeply committed to local impact, and we share the same objective of maintaining personalised service so our members continue to get the local support they rely on.”
Geelong Bank chair, Allison Batten said the proposed merger presented an exciting opportunity to combine two banks with a rich history of helping regional people reach their financial goals and grow their livelihoods.
“The dedication and deep community knowledge displayed by our team members is what makes both banks special,” Ms Batten said.
“We are committed to retaining every team member, because they are the ones who deliver the personal, trusted service our members expect.”
Due diligence and approval processes will progress over the coming months, which will inform the development of a binding merger agreement expected in early 2026.
“Meaningful
By STEVE KELLY
Early and meaningful engagement is at the heart of a new approach to the roll out of renewable energy facilities across Victoria, according to the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan just released.
However, it might come as cold comfort for some who have grappled with what they view as having been an ad hoc approach and substandard consultation concerning affected communities, by applicants and government departments.
Independent MP for Indi Helen Haines said the release of the transmission plan highlights both the challenges and opportunities of delivering renewable energy projects in regional Victoria.
She said it reflects community concerns about the impact on farmland and the need for genuine engagement and local benefit.
“It is encouraging to see VicGrid commit to stronger expectations for how developers engage with communities and deliver economic and social benefit as a benchmark for assessing applications - this is long overdue,” Dr Haines said.
“Where projects fall short of genuine engagement, regional communities risk being ignored and missing out on the lasting benefits these projects should deliver.”
A solar facility application for Meadow Creek, near Wangaratta, is currently being assessed by the
Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny, a proposed project that has unsettled some in the local community over the last two years.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant said they are hopeful of getting a better understanding of the status of the the Meadow Creek application as well as the impact of this latest transmission plan next week.
“Council’s concern is for the future of agricultural land, not only in our municipality, but across the whole of Victoria,” Cr Grant said.
“The renewable energy roll out should not ignore the importance of agriculture and the natural environment to the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of regional communities across Australia.”
Agriculture sector feedback is included in the transmission plan with three key organisations cited, including Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF), Dairy Australia, and Farmers for Climate Action (FCA).
The VFF said it supported a just and market-driven transition to renewable energy, provided it respected agricultural production and was based on genuine commercial consent from landholders.
It noted farmland was a critical national asset - not surplus land for infrastructure highlighting the 2024 Parliamentary Inquiry into securing Victoria’s food supply, which warned of the risks to local food security if farmland was not protected.
The VFF stressed that any renew-
able energy infrastructure must deliver tangible benefits to local communities and criticised recent transmission planning as unjust and strategically flawed, arguing that rural landholders were being asked to bear disproportionate burdens while receiving minimal benefit.
The 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan has been developed through extensive consultation and sets out the transmission infrastructure the state needs to build over the next 15 years to deliver reliable and affordable energy to Victorian homes and businesses.
The plan proposes the creation of six renewable energy zones (REZs) that signal to the community, landholders and industry where wind and solar projects and batteries for storage should be developed.
It’s important to note that North East Victoria is not one of these six zones, however, that does not currently exclude renewable energy facilities being built in this region.
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker said VicGrid had carefully considered all the feedback it received from the community, regional stakeholders, Traditional Owners and the agriculture and energy industries in preparing the plan.
“The Victorian Transmission Plan will ensure an orderly energy transition and has been designed through consultation to minimise impacts on landholders, regional communities and crucial regional industries like agriculture,” he said.
“VicGrid has worked hard to balance a range of factors as we make difficult decisions about where energy infrastructure is needed to deliver reliable and affordable power to Victorian homes, businesses and industry.”
In response to feedback following the release of the draft Victorian Transmission Plan in May, VicGrid has adjusted the size and shape of renewable energy zones and refined some of its transmission projects.
Some areas have been removed from or added to zones, and new separate sections have been added in the South West REZ and Central North REZ.
Mr Parker said feedback from communities and regional stakeholders about sensitive areas, including new information about brolga habitats and irrigated agricultural land, had resulted in a number of areas being removed from the renewable energy zones.
He said there was also clear feedback from industry stakeholders about the size of zones.
“Industry stakeholders consistently told us the size of zones and the amount of energy generated from each zone needed to be at a level that enabled the development of technically and commercially viable renewable projects,” he said.
To read the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan and supporting documents, visit VicGrid’s website.
A Wangaratta man who nearly killed himself in a crash while on ice has been ordered to complete 180 hours of community work, with his licence disqualified for double the mandatory minimum period.
The 23-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week to hear his sentence, after he pleaded guilty to multiple charges of dangerous driving while unlicenced and breaching an order.
The court previously heard at 2:15pm on 26 October last year the defendant crashed an LDV utility into a large gumtree on Glenrowan-Moyhu Road, about one kilome-
tre from the Moyhu township.
Several bystanders in the area assisted him after he was found unconscious in the driver’s seat with his head pressed against his chest.
Emergency services arrived and airlifted him to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition.
At 7:20pm that night, blood samples indicated methamphetamine was present in his system.
Police were handed the wallet of the accused following the crash, which contained a small zip lock bag of ice, and the man held a disqualified driver’s licence.
The court heard he spent
A teenager laces up their boots to play on the field they once thought was not for them.
An elder quietly packs a small bag, ready to step into safety after decades of silence.
A parent reflects on how to care without controlling.
A survivor finds the courage to speak, breaking years of shame.
These are moments from Imagine, a new series of short clips and educational resources from the Centre Against Violence, launching this month.
Each piece invites viewers to picture a world where respect, safety and belonging are not rare or fragile, but the way they live every day.
The Imagine series is built around eight words: Freedom, Hope, Justice, Belonging, Courage, Strength and Reclaim.
Each short clip brings its theme to life through a powerful story that is both deeply personal and universally human.
Viewers will see what it means to feel safe at home, to rebuild independence after control, to uphold the voices and rights of people with disability, and to create spaces where everyone feels welcome in
sport and community life.
13 days in an induced coma at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and sustained a fractured jaw and vertebrae which required rods, bolts, screws and plates to be inserted into his body.
Police arrested the Wangaratta man on 18 January when he couldn’t recall the incident but told officers he had taken ice two days prior to his crash.
Just under a month prior to his near-fatal crash, the court heard he was caught speeding at 75km/h on Mason Street on 29 September and nearly caused a collision after evading police.
As police approached his 32-year-old Holden sedan in
the rain, they observed the car overtaking a vehicle and narrowly drifting into a woman and her elderly mother in another car around a bend.
Police spoke to the female driver who said she was left terrified and thought she and her mother were about to die as the Holden slid towards them.
The Holden sporting a rusted chassis, unroadworthy tyres and incorrect number plates was found abandoned nearby, with police tracking the defendant, in changed clothes, and his passenger into a local tavern.
Defence counsel Nancy Battiato said since her client’s last court appearance
in July, he was regularly attending drug counselling appointments and had reached out about enlisting into a rehabilitation program.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said the man’s consistently dangerous driving and drug-related behaviour continually put the community at risk and asked for more than than the minimum 12-month licence disqualification.
Magistrate Ian Watkins doubled the mandatory minimum licence loss, and said the 23-year-old was not mature enough to hold a licence over the next two years.
“Your driving is just ap-
palling… you’ve got a lot of work to do to get your licence back,” he said.
“This is your last opportunity to show the court you are fair dinkum, you haven’t cared about the public, you haven’t cared about court orders.”
Corrections officer Robert Parkinson said 160 hours of community work was required on the last order served on the accused, and not many of those hours had been completed.
Magistrate Watkins imposed a new 18-month community corrections order which will include 180 hours of community work and treatment for drug abuse.
They will witness the bravery it takes to speak about sexual abuse, the power of redefining strength as care and respect, and the possibilities that come when safety and dignity are reclaimed at any stage of life.
Alongside each clip is a set of educational resources offering practical advice, conversation
starters and clear pathways to support.
These tools are designed for schools, sports clubs, workplaces, community groups and your own home, the places where change begins and grows.
The Imagine project was made possible through the generosity of the Kyamba Foundation, whose belief in prevention, healing and
connection ensured these stories could be told.
Filmed and produced by Little Brother Media, every image, sound and moment was shaped with authenticity and compassion.
“This is about showing what a safer future can look like,” Kasi Burge, acting CEO of the Centre Against Violence, said.
“We hope these stories create
AND
ARE PART OF THE EFFORT TO SEE CENTRE AGAINST VIOLENCE RELEASE AN EIGHT-PART VIDEO SERIES AND EDUCATIONAL RESCOURCES.
conversation, shift perspectives, reduce stigma and remind people that respect is something we can all build together.”
CAV’s first clip was due to launch on social media on Thursday 21 August, with all eight clips and their accompanying resources available to view at centreagainstviolence.org.au/ news/imagine.
WorkSafe will target five priority industries over the next 12 months to help deliver ambitious goals for reducing workplace deaths and injuries in Victoria.
The focus sectors of health care and social assistance, construction, government, agriculture and manufacturing have together accounted for almost 60 per cent of all work-related deaths and accepted workplace injury claims in the past five years.
WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said the new approach was part of a plan to achieve
significant five-year targets outlined in the WorkSafe Victoria Strategy – including reducing fatalities by 30 per cent and injuries by 20 per cent.
“The safety of workers in workplaces is our highest priority, so it makes sense that we focus resources on the sectors where the greatest harm is happening and the hazards causing it,” Mr Jenkin said.
path to enable, motivate, influence and enforce better performance and compliance.”
Mr Jenkin said this did not mean duty holders in other industries would avoid scrutiny or miss out on invaluable support and advice on what they need to do to meet health and safety obligations.
and have the information, education and systems to make a difference.”
“We have carefully identified areas where the rate of injuries or fatalities is highest, relative to the size of the industry, and mapped out a
Friday, 21 August, 2015
By SCOTT ANDERSON
He’s one of the nation’s top junior cycling prospects and, starting today, Thomas McDonald will get to test himself against the best of the best when the National Road Series (NRS) arrives on his doorstep.
McDonald, who has been racking up national titles left, right and centre over the past few years, is coming off a sensational showing at the recent Victorian Junior Road Championships, where he won gold in the road race and silver in the time trial.
The 17-year-old is rapt to be taking part in the Sam Miranda Tour of the King Valley, which has been upgraded to being part of the men’s NRS this year.
“It’s really impressive for the Sam Miranda to be able to gather the amount of prestige it has – it’s now one of the main NRS races,” McDonald said.
“It’s going to be great having all the leading teams here to contest it, and it’s going to be a very hardfought race.”
The tour comprises four stages, the first two of which are held today – a time trial at Whitfield this morning, followed by a criterium in the Wangaratta CBD from 2pm this afternoon.
The criterium is set to offer plenty of excitement for spectators
WorkSafe will continue to use a range of tools to improve safety across priority areas, including targeted visits and assessment programs, as well as education, awareness-building and collaborative initiatives to influence change.
“Holding employers to account is a key part of our strategy and WorkSafe won’t hesitate to use every regulatory tool available against employers who fail to protect workers – including potential criminal charges,” he said.
“But a big part of our role is about making sure all duty holders are supported to understand their obligations,
WorkSafe has worked closely with stakeholders to develop a Statement of Regulatory Intent, which provides the Victorian community a transparent and accessible view of key priorities for the 2025-26 financial year.
In addition to the target sectors, WorkSafe will focus on key hazards causing the most physical and psychological harm across all industries – including falls from height, occupational violence and aggression,
as around 150 and 50 women race around the block from Docker Street, Norton Street, Cusack Street and Ovens Street for around an hour each.
“Criteriums in the NRS are always very intense, with speeds up over 50kph for the duration,” McDonald said.
“The corners are always taken at full speed, so that adds to the excitement for spectators.
“I’m just going to try to keep myself in the race and learn from the other riders.
“The thing about being in the NRS at my age is that, while you aim to do well, it’s more about learning.” McDonald is hoping to do well in
the time trial, but knows he is at a disadvantage to the senior riders due to their experience using heavier gearing.
“I’m really looking forward to it –it’s a beautiful course and it could be extremely challenging depending on how much wind we get,” he said.
“In under 19 our gearing is restricted – that’s to prevent junior riders developing knee injuries.
“In the NRS I’m allowed to run full gearing, so I’ll have those gears available, but just through junior
hazardous manual handling, bullying and harassment, occupational illness and disease, loading and unloading, and mobile plant.
“WorkSafe has set ambitious prevention targets for the next five years – but we know we can’t influence change and improve safety on our own,” Mr Jenkin said.
“That’s why we’ll continue consulting with stakeholders and working closely with industry to ensure that, not only is every employer aware of their duties, but they understand why and how to prioritise safety.”
tendencies I’ll probably have higher revolutions on my pedals rather than using the heaviest gears.”
Stages three and four are road races – 115km on Saturday and 88km on Sunday.
“Both road races are going to be very hard – one because of the wind, and the other a combination of hills and wind,” McDonald said.
“In one of the stages we’ll encounter Ryan’s Lookout, Taminick Gap and a lot of wind as well.
“As juniors they tend to just want us to learn how to ride the bunch, but if our team does end up in contention then I’ll definitely be expected to chip in and put up my share of work.”
McDonald will be representing the Victorian Institute of Sport team.
“I think we’ve got a really strong team,” he said.
As for what he is most looking forward to, McDonald said it didn’t get any better than having the chance to compete against his idols.
“Just getting to race with people I’ve looked up to for so much of my life,” he said.
“You’ve got Jack Bobridge, who was an absolute superstar on the track, and now he’s racing the NRS.
“There are a lot of riders who I’ve looked up to for a long time because of what they have achieved at world titles, and now I’m racing against them – it’s very exciting.”
By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS
Many of our most iconic and familiar birds in the North East feature conspicuous black and white plumage, such as the cheeky Willie Wagtail, the scissor-grinding Restless Flycatcher, the ‘pee-wee’ Magpie-lark, and of course, the common Australian Magpie.
However, one black and white species is considerably rarer and less well known than its plainly coloured counterparts – the Hooded Robin.
Like all Australian robins, the Hooded Robin is not related at all to the European or American robin, instead being more closely linked with other uniquely Australian species such as fantails, whistlers, and fairy-wrens.
Though they might lack the bright colours of some of our other ‘red’ robins, male Hooded Robins are rather boldly marked with a jet-black hood, back, and wings; and they have a prominent crisp white chest, belly, wing bars, and panels edging their tail.
Females, however, are somewhat different in appearance, being largely grey overall, and their white underparts are not as bright; but they retain the same wing and
tail markings as the males.
These white wing and tail patterns are conspicuous when the birds are in flight and is often the easiest way to differentiate this species from other similar species, such as the Jacky Winter and female Flame and Scarlet Robins.
Like so many of our other woodland birds in south-eastern Australia, the Hooded Robin population has declined significantly in recent decades.
Although there are quite a few places in this region where the species can be encountered, it has all but disappeared from many other districts where it was once more common.
Hooded Robins have special needs in that they require large patches of open woodland that are well connected.
As a ground-feeding species, they rely on a healthy and complex layer of leaf-litter, scattered fallen timber, patches of open ground, and perennial native grasses and small shrubs.
They also benefit from having
patches of saplings and larger shrubs, such as wattles, scattered throughout, which they use for shelter and nesting.
The conversion of native woodlands into open farming country right across vast areas of the Hooded Robins range is responsible for their decline, and there is considerable concern over the species’ ongoing existence in many rural landscapes.
As such, it is listed as a threatened species in both Victoria and New South Wales.
They are typically seen in pairs during the breeding season, but small groups may form in the autumn and winter.
They are rather quiet and shy, but have a habit of perching on low, exposed branches, rocks and stumps, searching the ground nearby for prey, from which they pounce onto.
Food consists largely of spiders, beetles, grubs, worms, moths, and various insects.
Locally, Hooded Robins can be seen around the Warby Ranges, the Eldorado hills and the Lurg hills, favouring the more open woodland edges of larger forest areas.
Thus, private land and timbered roadsides bordering places like the Warby Ranges are very important for the species.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are urging snowfield visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for emergencies after responding to skiers in the Bogong High Plains.
Friends Michelle McRae and Jon Miller were recently rescued by a team effort from AV, Victoria Police and SES, after unexpected gear failures left them stuck overnight in blizzard conditions while on a ski touring expedition.
“We were well-equipped for the possibility of extreme conditions and being in the elements longer than expected,” Michelle said.
“We had good quality gear, solid navigation and location capacity, power banks to charge our phones and torches, and appropriate equipment for snow camping such as a shovel, ice axe, footwear spikes and more.
“We’re both experienced in wilderness expeditions, so we knew the tasks that needed to be done to keep safe when conditions worsened –like preventing snow build up on and around our tent, and ensuring the tent was adequately vented.”
SAFE ADVICE
If you’re heading to the mountains during the rest of this year’s snow season, there are steps you can take to keep safe:
Know your limits and plan for the unexpected.
Carry safety gear, including a charged phone and navigation equipment.
Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
Access can take time – so pack like help’s not just minutes away.
If you do need help, make it easier for emergency crews to reach you:
Download the free Emergency Plus app or What3Words app, which help pinpoint your exact location – essential in vast or unmarked areas.
Have a visible marker if possible, such as a brightly coloured item of clothing or pack.
Stay put once you’ve called for help, unless directed otherwise by Triple Zero (000).
Keep your phone on and conserve battery, so paramedics can contact you or locate you via emergency systems.
AV alpine senior team manager
Jonathan Hopkins said the rescue was a great example of skiers being ready for an emergency in the snow and helped ensure everyone’s safety during the blizzard.
“With Michelle and Jon wellequipped to endure the night in severe conditions, it prevented emergency services from conducting a high-risk rescue,” he said.
“The pair could camp out overnight and wait for the extreme weather to pass – rescued the following day in much better conditions.
“It’s a timely reminder to always plan for the worst-case scenario.”
Michelle and Jon were uninjured in the ordeal but said it was a relief when they saw emergency services.
“Our plan had been to ski to Ropers Hut, spend the night there and ski back on the Sunday,” Jon said.
“But on the way out, we both had significant and unexpected gear failures.
“It was getting late, so we opted to stay in a closer hut and head back the next day.”
However, the next morning, the duo was greeted by the incoming blizzard, which was hitting far earlier than forecast.
“Our gear failures made it too difficult to ski out and the visibility was getting worse, so we couldn’t walk either,” Jon said.
“We stopped and called for help early, hoping rescuers could reach us before dark.
“We pitched Michelle’s tent while we waited for rescue crews.”
Michelle and Jon both carried personal locator beacons (PLBs) but were able to use a phone to call for help, informing the Triple Zero (000) call taker of their location a number of ways, including their coordinates, via the What3Words app and a photo with their location pin-
pointed on a topographical map.
When rescuers told Michelle and Jon they would have to camp out until the next day, the pair were confident they had the equipment to survive the night.
“Having good quality gear was a huge help,” Jon said.
“We both had good sleeping bags, mats, lots of waterproofs, battery packs to charge our phones and Michelle had a very good tent.
“She’s very experienced and that’s one of the other best things you can do – go out with somebody more experienced and lean on their knowledge.”
Michelle said her top tip for people planning a trip in an alpine region was to know your limits.
“Before heading out on an expedition, do some basic courses and knowledge acquisition, build up slowly, and plan trips in line with your skills and experience,” she said.
“Make sure your group communicate limitations prior to the trip and always develop a clear trip plan.”
NE Tracks LLEN presented the largest Hands On Trades & Career Expo in the North East, on 14 August 2025 at Winton Motor Raceway, where about 1700 students from 38 schools from across the North East and border attended.
National Skills Week (25-31 August) highlights the power of vocational training to give workers the skills required for successful and satisfying careers.
But VET is also key to achieving the skills needs of industries across regional and remote Australia, where job vacancies are growing at faster rates than metropolitan areas.
Health, construction, hospitality, and retail are among the largest employing industries requiring VET-qualified staff, including those in shortage such as aged and disabled carers, truck drivers, and electricians.
Mining continues to be a large employer of VET-qualified workers, while the clean energy transformation is creating significant employment opportunities in regional and remote Australia for people trained through VET.
Jobs and Skills Australia states that “regional and remote areas have seen a shift in the share of employment towards occupations where VET is the primary pathway in addition to a shift towards highly skilled occupations”.
It also reveals VET students from inner regional, outer regional, and remote areas have consistently better training outcomes than their counterparts in major cities.
It is in terms of higher rates of completing their qualification as well as having significantly improved employment status after their training.
“National Skills Week plays a pivotal role in raising awareness on the diversity of careers that can be realised through Vocational Education and Training , highlighting the skills needs of industry , the jobs now and the jobs of the future,” National Skills Week chair Brian Wexham said.
Whether you are a high school student or a parent looking to provide guidance to your child, we invite you to use National Skills Week to explore all the options available through VET. Check out free TAFE courses, investigate apprenticeship degree courses, and examine courses and careers that connect to a passion.
Delve into the diversity offered through VET, get inspired, and discover the many rewarding career pathways and options available that will help ensure young Australians are job ready.
As part of supporting an outside organisation, the school chose to complete the Jump Rope for Heart program this year, to support and raise funds for the Heart Foundation.
During PE sessions this term all classes have been practising a variety of skipping techniques, challenging themselves to complete an assortment of individual skills, along with partner, group and long rope skills.
Starting off with the basics, it didn’t take long before several students wanted to refine their skills and attempt more difficult jumps.
Backwards, crossovers, double-unders, partner linking and the long rope skills like the egg-beater and double-dutch were
continually practised. Although not always nailing it, there was a lot of engagement, enjoyment and perseverance shown to achieve success in some form.
Completing pushups in the long rope or individuals using their rope to complete a cartwheel, round off or front flip before going straight into a skipping routine were highlights for some students.
The two-hour session culminated in the year 6’s presenting a group routine to the whole school.
It was great to see these students work through this together and have everyone being involved in some way.
Students recently enjoyed a tree planting day. They had a blast and planted over 300 trees with other schools, creating habitat for native species and improving the environment for all.
DIGGING IN: Carra students including Jacob Saunders, Max Hermann-O’Brien, Hayden Fletcher, Jack Webbers, Amelia and Hamish Brauman, Avi Panozzo and Artie Mcleod, were among those to plant trees.
Choir members in year 5/6 will have the opportunity to sing with Opera Australia when they present La Bohème at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in September.
Ten students are currently rehearsing with teacher Brigid Malcolm for the special event, before they take to stage in full costume in Act 2 as children who are excited to see Parpignol (a man selling toys).
The collaboration provides local students with the chance to rehearse and perform with a professional cast and orchestra, in what will be an exciting experience for everyone involved.
READY TO PERFORM: Singing in the Opera Australia production of La Bohème will be St Patrick’s students Paige Finegan, Ayla Kelly, Charlotte McCall, Evangeline Giglio, Josaphine Kilby, Maddalyn May, Sarah Hourigan and Helena Malcolm (absent: Mia Hill and Charlee Wahlert).
The school’s annual Book Week parade was held in the library this week. Both students and staff embraced the event with enthusiasm, sporting an array of costumes, taking inspiration from a wide range of popular titles.
Students enjoyed the Scholastic Book Fair, browsing a wide range of books and purchasing gifts for themselves and others.
Excitement grew as winners of the school’s bookmark colouring competition were announced, each receiving a voucher to spend at the fair, making reading even more rewarding.
Part of Mount Buffalo Chalet will be used to help accommodate regional workers from as early as next year.
The Victorian government has confirmed it will help fund the Mount Buffalo Chalet Regional Worker Accommodation Project through round two of its Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.
BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au
lease of the facility with Parks Victoria last year.
Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes, said the project is part of the wider refurbishment of the heritage-listed Mt Buffalo Chalet by commercial operator Belgravia Group, which entered into a 40 year
By PHOEBE MORGAN
As the September 1 start date for Peter Dixon’s 2500km kayaking trek on the Murray River approaches, Bright Hospital Op Shop (BHOS) has donated $20,000 to help push his fundraising tally past its $75,000 target.
Mr Dixon is raising the money in honour of his late wife Helen, who passed away on March 9 this year after battling pancreatic cancer for more than 20 months, with the majority of her chemotherapy and radiation treatment performed at the Albury-Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.
The Wandiligong pensioner said he wanted to do something to help those who cared for Helen, deciding to raise funds for the Albury-Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust to help provide up-to-date facilities, services, research, as well as training for staff on site.
Peter’s cause has stirred strong support in the local community, inspired by his impending 10 week epic kayak paddle with his pet poodle Maggie from the start of the Murray River, located at Bringenbrong Bridge near Corryong, all the way to where the Murray reaches the ocean in South Australia.
BHOS president, Eileen Hunter, said Peter was doing an “incredible thing” and it took her group approximately three months to raise the $20,000 donation.
“What better way to use the $20,000 than to support those in need,” she said.
Manager of the AlburyWodonga Regional Cancer Centre, Andrew MacInlay, said it was amazing to see the amount of money coming through.
Minister Symes said Belgravia will build 38 bedrooms that can house up to 42 key workers in tourism, hospitality and agriculture in the alpine region.
Richard Thornton, chief executive officer of Belgravia Outdoor Education, said the project will see former staff quarters at the rear of the chalet converted into 38 new, predominantly self-
contained single bedrooms.
“We’re looking at completion by July 1 next year,” he told the Alpine Observer/ Myrtleford Times.
“The accommodation will be completely separate to other parts of the chalet and have its own entrance.
“While we will use some rooms for our own staff, the majority will help accommodate wider staffing needs in the region.
“There is a big demand for staff accommodation in local tourism and agricultural industries, be it for seasonal things like the snow, fruit/ grape season and the likes.
“Accommodation will be both short and long term....we would expect it to be fully utilised by the end of next year.”
Mr Thornton said the project was yet another exciting step in breathing new life into the historic chalet, which had sat idle since 2006.
He said use of the chalet as a vibrant outdoor education centre for visiting groups had been progressing well this year, with North East and Melbourne schools using the facilities.
“We’ve had many school groups, with as many as 140 students, camping and
chalet,” Mr Thornton said.
“They’ve been making full use of everything on offer, including caving, abseiling, bushwalking and kayaking and canoeing on Lake Catani.
“We will have accommodation for schools in the chalet sometime next year.”
Meanwhile, the wider public will get access to the chalet when the newly renovated cafe re-opens in late December.
“It will be open daily through the school holidays and summer,” Mr Thornton said.
Sleeping truck driver awoken by fire which destroyed his prime mover
By PHOEBE MORGAN
It was an early morning for emergency services in Myrtleford on Tuesday as the engine of a gas transportation truck caught fire, just after 1am, south east of the township on the Great Alpine Road. While the load was not compromised, the truck’s engine and cabin was extensively damaged by fire.
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
Myrtleford Bowls Club is still pursuing modernisation of its facilities and will seek federal funding to help transform one of its two existing lawn greens to a synthetic woven grass surface and have it permanently covered by roofing. A delegation from the club met with Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines last week to garner her support and identify grant opportunities for the whole project, estimated to cost between $1.4m to $1.5m.
The club wants $350,000 in federal funds to match the $350,000 already secured from the Victorian
government, with $540,000 pledged by benefactors and up to $100,000 to be funded by the club.
Club past president and chair of the steering committee driving the project, Lance Symons, said Alpine Shire Council, while unable to help fund the project, had offered its support for government grant bids, with Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy supportive too.
“We are talking with the Victorian Department of Sport and Recreation about applying for another grant for the project,” Mr Symons said.
“While we still have a few things to work through on the funding, the ideal scenario would be to do the
synthetic rink and its roofing at the same time...for practical use and cost savings, but that will depend on funds available.
“If all the funding is secured we would aim to commence work at the end of the pennant season in March next year.”
Mr Symons said members and the board, with supporters in the community, are committed to the project, which would elevate facilities to be among the best in the North East.
“The Ovens and Murray bowls region has 30 clubs and not one has a roof, which would have both health and environmental benefits for all users,” he said, noting the closest
bowling clubs with covered greens are located at Moama in NSW and in Shepparton.
“The improvements would also secure the Myrtleford Bowls Club’s future for the next 30-40 years as a world class facility enabling greater participation in all weather conditions.”
Club president Graeme Piazza said club membership has grown over the past decade to more than 70, not including the 60 or so people playing barefoot bowls.
“A synthetic green, with roofing, would allow us to play year-round...offering greater access, and allowing more people to play,” he said.
The driver was uninjured and able to escape, before the fire took hold.
Myrtleford CFA captain, Gloria Pizzolitto, said the travelling truck driver was having his rest break, asleep in the cabin of the vehicle, when he was awoken by a sound.
Sergeant Cam Miller of Myrtfleford police said the prime mover was destroyed.
“At this stage the cause of the fire seems to be a mechanical fault,” he said.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Bendigo Bank will cease its agency services in Myrtleford after 24 October this year.
As part of nationwide move, the bank is cancelling agency services at 28 third-party businesses around the country, including Myrtleford Real Estate and Livestock, which has provided small banking services for local Bendigo Bank customers for several years.
Bendigo Bank branches, such as that in Bright, will remain open and continue business as normal.
Bendigo Bank is advising its Myrtleford customers that they will be able to access banking services at the town’s post office through Bank@Post, as well as attend the Bright branch.
“Through Bank@Post, Bendigo Bank customers can deposit cash and cheques, withdraw cash and make balance enquiries over the counter at local post offices,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.
In a recent statement, Bendigo Bank said its thirdparty agency model cannot be supported any longer due to decreasing customer use and other relevant factors.
The boss said, ‘give me the best car in the world’.
It was 1983 when Toyota president, Eiji Toyoda, challenged a crack team of 4000 highly talented staff to do his command.
That’s how Lexus, a brand worth $US10.2 billion today, was born; with a luxury sedan, the LS400, generally accepted as a segment superstar, shading the best that Europe could make - including the best from Benz.
It was a big day when the car came down under in the early nineties - I was there.
Since then, Lexus has pretty much kept its foot on the pedal of its Kaizen (continuous improvement) philosophy across all its brands.
Now it is bringing this to the small SUV segment with the Lexus LBX.
“The first LBX breaks new ground,” said Lexus Australia chief executive, John Pappas.
“It is proof that luxury is not dictated vehicle size and is in keeping with our electrified strategy, offering the latest in hybrid technology with an advanced fuel-efficient powertrain.”
Available in Luxury 2WD, or Sports Luxury 2WD or AWD variants, prices start at $47,550, plus on-road costs, and top out at $56,990 for the flagship, aimed at appealing to youthful buyers with active lifestyles.
The entry-level Luxury 2WD was on test.
All come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, and Lexus being what it is, a three-year complimentary subscription to the manufac-
turer’s Lexus Encore lifestyle program, boasting benefits such as exclusive offers from luxury hotel partners, invitations to premium events and fuel discounts at participating Ampol service stations.
Urban, or should that be ‘urbane’; as the first Lexus in the compact B segment, designers were determined the LXB should make its mark for future generations of cityslick SUVs.
Based on the rigid GA-B platform, the all-new compact creates a striking visual impact, the trademark Lexus spindle dominating the front, vertically compressed to sit low in the vehicle body to accentuate sportiness.
The bonnet crease seamlessly moulds into the slim high-set LED headlights, which include a high/low beam light and bi-functional daytime running light and turn signal with an inverted version of the L-shaped signature lighting.
With minimal overhangs and robust wheel arches, dark side sills and wheel arch mouldings complement the expressive SUV design.
In shaping the rear, designers were inspired by Kagamimochi traditional Japanese rice cakes (really?) and positioned similarly to two mochi pieces, split by the rear lighting signature, and giving the vehicle a sense of stability and low centre of gravity.
Dynamic 18-inch alloy wheels are standard across the range, with Luxury grade fitted with dark grey metallic wheels with a bright machined finish, highlighting the twin Y-spoke design.
MODEL LINE-UP:
LEXUS LBX LUXURY 2WD HYBRID: $47,550.
LEXUS LBX SPORTS LUXURY 2WD HYBRID: $52,990.
LEXUS LBX SPORTS LUXURY AWD HYBRID: $56,990.
NOTE: this price does not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Lexus dealer for drive-away prices.
The search for a serene yet tech-weighted cabin results in the Tazuna cockpit principle inspired by simple communication between a horse and rider through reins, a user-friendly layout keeping all key vehicle functions within easy reach, while minimising line-of-sight movement - are you paying attention, Chinese car makers?
As for occupant comfort, Lexus says the split-folding rear seat and optimisation of rear cargo space provide customers with active, urban lifestyles the carrying flexibility they need for work, family, and fun requirements.
Not quite - the rear legroom is cramped, even with average-size front row occupants, and not too welcoming of an extended journey.
All LBX grades share the same petrol/electric powertrain, teaming a 1.5-litre ICE with an electric motor generator and nickel-metal hydride battery for fuel economy with
refined performance.
Peak power for the petrol motor is 67kW at 5500rpm and 120Nm of torque from 3800 to 4800 revs.
It is mated with a continuously variable transmission.
The petrol engine is paired with a hybrid transaxle on the front axle, including a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 69kW/185Nm, powered by a compact nickelmetal hydride battery stored underneath the rear seat.
Peak combined output for the three-cylinder hybrid powertrain is rated at 100kW, with low combined fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle and average carbon dioxide emissions of 85 grams per kilometre.
The all-new LBX offers excellent protection for occupants and other road users with a full suite of Lexus Safety System+ active safety features across a wide range of driving scenarios.
Active safety uses a combined millimetre wave radar
and monocular camera sensor, operating high-tech to provide peace of mind for road users.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control offers a broad range of associated features, allowing four levels of preset distances to vehicles in front and three levels of acceleration strength.
Road Sign Assist uses the monocular camera to detect road sign speeds and display them on the multi-information.
In a first for Lexus, owners can set a speed limiter linked with Road Sign Assist (speed signs only) to limit the vehicle’s speed in accordance with the associated speed limit.
The LBX comes equipped with eight airbags for excellent passive occupant protection.
Lexus ‘lab coats’ (possibly with help from AI) did not miss meeting desirable on-road credentials for LBX.
Engineers improved the hybrid system’s responsiveness and acceleration thanks to the strong output of the motor and hybrid battery.
Acceleration and deceleration characteristics are sensitive to up and downhill inclines and can adjust the drive force accordingly.
During acceleration, the hybrid system contribution is upped, which in turn decreases the workload of the petrol engine.
With engine revs reduced by roughly 20 per cent compared to previous Lexus hybrids, there’s a cut in fuel consumption.
The LBX stretches the Lexus Driving Signature by intel-
ligently checking the driver’s inputs and intentions when driving in Normal mode.
For example, if driven in a sporty manner, additional deceleration may be provided when the accelerator pedal is stepped off, thereby reducing braking distance and enhancing the driving experience.
The new hybrid powertrain ensures the LBX provides spritely and refined performance while offering excellent fuel economy and low carbon dioxide emissions.
After an average working week, the test LBX had managed to average 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel use.
SUMMARY
The Chinese could take a leaf out of the Lexus LBX book in connecting with the driver – fewer intrusive warnings, alarms, and physical interventions.
By all means offer them up, then leave the driver to react, hopefully, accordingly.
The Lexus LBX ticks all these boxes without ‘strangling’ the wallet.
RATINGS
Looks: 8
Performance: 7
Safety: 8
Thirst: 6
Practicality: 7
Comfort: 7
Tech: 8
Value: 8
SPECIFICATIONS (Lexus
LBX Luxury 1.5-litre 3-cyl petrol, CVT, FWD, SUV).
STANDARD WARRANTY Five years / unlimited kilometres.
Capped price servicing five years.
Roadside assist 10 years.
This stylish 2025 brick veneer residence combines contemporary elegance, family functionality and exciting future potential, all set on a generous 1-acre approx. allotment.
Designed with both lifestyle and long-term opportunity in mind, the home offers five spacious bedrooms, multiple living zones and the possibility of future subdivision (STCA).
At the heart of the home is a sleek kitchen showcasing porcelain benchtops, premium Smeg appliances - including an induction cooktop and oven - and a large butler’s pantry, cre -
ating the perfect environment for both everyday convenience and seamless entertaining.
A dedicated home office provides versatility for remote work, study or creative pursuits, blending modern design with practicality.
Zoned refrigerated heating and cooling ensure year-round comfort, while underfloor heating in all bathrooms, including the indulgent ensuite, elevates the sense of luxury. Two living areas flow effortlessly to the expansive alfresco, complete with tiled access, integrated roof heaters, and a salt-
chlorinated swimming pool offering an idyllic setting for gatherings or quiet relaxation.
Perfectly positioned near the famed Prosecco Road food and wine trail, the property is surrounded by celebrated wineries, a local café and a general store, while the vibrant Rural City of Wangaratta is just a 20-minute drive away.
Combining sophisticated living with the promise of future growth, this is a rare opportunity to secure a one-of-akind lifestyle property in a truly soughtafter location.
That’s more than just a shed, it’s a gift that keeps Dad (or you) smiling, on the job and out on the water.
Nestled in the heart of Eldorado, Florence Villa is a beautifully preserved circa 1870s cottage that seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary living. Set across three titles on a sprawling 8,287m² approx. allotment, this unique lifestyle property is surrounded by established gardens and offers a rare opportunity to secure a piece of local history.
The home features four bedrooms and two bathrooms, complemented by two inviting living areas. At its centre is an open-plan kitchen equipped with a Falcon stove/oven, Bosch dishwasher, large walk-in pantry and breakfast bar, flowing effortlessly into the main living room warmed by a gas-look wood fire.
Entertain with ease in the expansive screened alfresco area, complete with built-in BBQ and outdoor cooking space perfect for year-round gatherings. A flexible second living room doubles as a fourth bedroom, library or study, while all bedrooms are generously sized with
| $990,000 Land | 8,287m2 approx
Location | 1527 Wangaratta Eldorado Road, Eldorado
built-in robes and lovely garden views. Modern comforts are assured with split systems throughout, while the exceptional shedding adds practicality to this already impressive property. Ideally located between Beechworth and Wangaratta, Florence Villa is a home of true character and charm one that must be inspected to be fully appreciated.
Set against the peaceful backdrop of a natural billabong, this contemporary townhouse offers a rare blend of lowmaintenance living and tranquil scenery.
Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the home features three generously sized bedrooms, including a master suite complete with a walk-in robe and ensuite.
The second and third bedrooms are equipped with built-in robes, making the layout practical for families, downsizers, or investors.
The heart of the home is its light-filled open-plan living area, enhanced by ducted heating, ducted cooling, and a split system for year-round climate control. Large windows invite the outdoors in, capturing calming views across the billabong and creating a sense of space and serenity often hard to find so close to town.
Ideally positioned just moments from local shops, quality schools, and Wangaratta’s vibrant town centre, this home
3 2 1
Agent | Garry Nash & Co
Phone | 03 5722 2663
Price | $525,000
Land | 438m2
Location | 4/111 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta
combines lifestyle and location. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee on the patio or hosting friends in the comfort of the lounge, you’ll appreciate the peaceful environment this property provides. Perfectly suited to those seeking modern comforts without compromising on natural beauty, this townhouse offers an exceptional opportunity to live with convenience, style, and a view that never gets old.
Wangaratta 2/64 Norton Street
88m2
Wangaratta 2 Bowerbird Way 297m2
Wangaratta 34 Pelican Court 651m2
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Wangaratta 14 Chisholm Street
Bundalong Sth 3442 Wang-Yarra
Council Meeting – Tuesday 26 August, 3:00pm
• Join us in person at Council Chambers, Government Centre (62-68 Ovens Street), or watch live on YouTube.
• View the agenda and meeting details at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Council-meetings
• Submit questions by 10:00am on the day to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au, or ask in person during the meeting.
• For accessibility support, contact Customer Service on 03 5722 0888.
Nominate a local hero for the 2026 Australia Day Awards in the following categories:
• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year (ages 16–25)
• Community Event or Project of the Year Nominate online: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Australia-Day-Awards or collect a form from: Customer Service, Library, or Visitor Information at WPACC Nominations close at 6pm, Saturday 8 November 2025.
Applications are now open for the Community Sponsorships Program. This initiative offers one-year funding for local not-forprofit organisations to deliver social, cultural and environmental experiences for our community. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 for projects being delivered in 2025/26. Applications close at 3pm on 1 September. More information, eligibility criteria, and to apply: wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community-Sponsorships
Find out when your bin will be delivered here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/PurpleBinDelivery
Are you aged 10–19 and love writing? Share your talent by submitting an original piece to the Wangaratta Young Writers Award. Presented by the Rotary Clubs of Appin Park and Wangaratta, and supported by Wangaratta Library, this is your chance to grow as a writer and be celebrated. Entry forms available at the Wangaratta Library and online www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Locations/Library/YoungWriters-Award
Between now and 14 September, your household may receive a call from National Field Services, an independent research agency conducting a survey for Council. The aim is to assess Council’s performance and improve service delivery. Your responses are confidential, only overall results are shared with Council. Calls will come from a number with the prefixes: (03) 5202, (03) 5141 or (03) 4217, not from mobile numbers. Please call Council on 5722 0888 with any questions. Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Application No PlnApp24/124
Location 1473 Boorhaman Road Boorhaman Vic 3678
Proposal Multi-lot Subdivision and removal of Native Vegetation Applications close 2 September 2025.
Local community groups, organisations, and vendors are invited to express their interest in being part of our Summer 2025–26 program. If you’re hosting a community event or would like to join Council-led events as a vendor or activity provider, we’d love to hear from you.
• 2025/2026 Summer Program Event
| Applications close 28 October
• 2025 New Years Eve Food & Beverage Vendor
| Applications close 28 October
• 2026 Outdoor Ball Food & Beverage Vendor
| Applications close 14 December
For more information visit our website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Summer-EOI
Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta
• Council Committees Policy 2025 | closes 29 August
• Road Management Plan 2025-29 | closes 29 August
• Waste Management Policy 2025 | closes 22 August
• Training, Placement & Transport | closes 30 September
54648 CBD Pedestrian Improvements
Tender closes at 2pm on 9 September 2025
81311 Sunset Drive Pump Station
Tender closes at 2pm on 4 September 2025
57516 Annual Road Reseal
Tender closes at 2pm on 4 September 2025
18791 Trade Services Panel
Tender closes at 2pm on 24 September 2025
Council is calling for experienced and qualified tradespeople to join our Panel of Preferred Contractors. The panel will support maintenance and minor capital works across Council-owned buildings and facilities.
The panel will be in place for three years.
Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Council’s website.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
Glenrowan Our Town
Notice of the Annual General Meeting of The Glenrowan Improvers Inc on Monday, August 25, 2025 at the 1880 Café at 6.30pm
An invitation to attend is extended to all residents. RSVP please glenrowanourtown@gmail.com
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Da Vinci Social Club Inc will be held at the Club 55 Pyles Lane Laceby, on Sunday, August 31 2025 at 2pm.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Unique lifestyle and business opportunity.
2 x PTV school bus contracts. Long standing NE High Country Victoria. (Omeo and Swifts Creek).
2020 Challenger 45 seat 2024 Toyota Coaster Deluxe 21 seat. Contact David 0409 951 552
LOTS of plants, large pots, orchids, some bonsai, ferns, succulents, various household items, last weekend, Aug 30-Aug 31, 10am3pm , no early callers, 88 Docker St. Wangaratta. o o
To Visit Visited
DJ and CL Collison Concrete and Kurb, all concrete works, residential and commerical, free quotes. Call Dave 0457 155 564.
CONCRETING , all types. Big or small jobs, concrete demolition and removal, Bobcat and Excavator work.20 years’ experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt service. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
CONNECT PROPERTY
MAINTENANCE - Your local handyman. Wooden door and window repair, pickett fence repair and paint, dry wall repair, gutter cleaning, servicing Wangaratta. Phone Vijay0426 939 455.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
HOUSES FOR REMOVAL
Period to Contemporary. Call Kevin 0411 103 745. HOUSE FOR RELOCATION.
2017 Silver Valley Caravan, 19.6 ft, 3-way fridge, microwave, full oven, gas and electric hot plate, washing machine, queen bed, tv, cd player, solar etc. $45,000. Phone Robert 0402 688 643.
COMPLETE snow skiing gear, ski’s, clothes, no boots. $400. Ph 0489 044 162.
DRY SPLIT
FIREWOOD, quality boxwood and gum, available now, $170 per metre, dry, split, ready to burn, fast delivery available. Call G & J Tree Services on 0474 107 631
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
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Landcruiser, excellent vehicle low kilometres (20,400), upgrades include; Runva 13,000lb winch, GME XRS-330C UHF with bluetooth phone connectivity, Victron DC-DC charger (auxiliary battery set up), EFS 2” Lift Kit with remote reservoir shocks (front and back), Stedi LED light bar, bull bar with side steps, charcoal interior, always serviced at Toyota, balance of Toyota 5yr unlimited km warranty, roadworthy and rego included (CIS286), $107,000 ONO. Ph 0429 950 835.
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Required to oversee domestic building works up to $50k. Could suit retirees. Call Kevin 0411 103 745.
• Use your accounting expertise to advise and support Beechworth Correctional Centre
• Full-time opportunity to join a passionate, public service team
• Earn $60,295 - $77,430 + super
The Beechworth Correctional Centre is a minimum-security facility with a focus on preparing individuals for release and successful reintegration back into society.
As an entry-level position, the Justice Officer - Finance processes a range of financial, accounts payable and purchasing transactions.
Some key responsibilities include:
• maintaining accurate records in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994.
• delivering a range of accounts functions including payables, receivables, reconciliation, data entry and reporting.
• preparing invoices for timely payment.
As our ideal candidate, you will possess:
• experience in word processing, spreadsheets, email and appointment scheduling.
• sound knowledge of accounting processes, in particular accounts payable, and experience with Oracle or a similar finance-related system.
• experience in fixed asset accounting and asset register maintenance is also desirable.
Apply now at careers.vic.gov.au
For further information, contact Tracey Stewart on 0439 325 275 or email tracey.stewart@justice.vic.gov.au
Applications close 2 September 2025
Lauriston Girls’ School seeks to appoint a highly organised and collaborative educational leader to the position of Director of Operations at our Howqua campus (near Mansfield) in an ongoing capacity. This is a residential campus for Lauriston’s Year 9 students.
The Director of Operations – Howqua campus is accountable for the coordination of the daily operations including scheduling and coordination of casual staff, as well as supporting daily operations in alignment with the Lauriston Girls’ School Howqua campus philosophy.
This is a full-time, ongoing position, commencing in Term 1, 2026. Housing on Campus will be provided. Please visit our employment page via www.lauriston.vic.edu.au for further information regarding the position and to apply online.
Applications close: 9am Monday, September 1, 2025. Lauriston is a Child Safe School. We promote the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.
Full or Part Time Opportunity
North East Media the publisher of Wangaratta Chronicle has an opportunity for a Print Assistant to join our established team based at our Wangaratta print site. No experience in the print industry is required.
Duties Include
• Supporting our technical print team in producing over 25 newspapers every week.
• Assisting the lead Printer in the operations of the press, including set up and production
• Job preparations using raw materials such as plates, paper and ink.
• Helping operate the newspaper collating machine
• General housekeeping of working environment such as cleaning and keeping area safe.
• Newspaper and magazine deliveries.
Please send applications to:
Edward Higgins
CEO
North East Media ehiggins@nemedia.com.au
100 Years WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
8/8/1925 - 8/8/2025
Harold Smethwic Hulme and Louise Irene (nee Pedler) Hulme.
Christian parents of Shirley Irene Britton, Margot Noel Reid and Harold Ross. God Bless.
AMBROSIO, John (Giuseppe).
My good mate, peace be with you. ~ Bill, Wendie, Andrew, Ainslie and Montana.
AMBROSIO, John.
13/3/1952 – 18/8/2025
AMBROSIO, John.
Appin Park Wangaratta
AMBROSIO, John. Past President. He was a true gentleman. Greatly respected by all. John was a great Rotarian, quiet but dependable. Our condolences go out to Jenny and family.
An opportunity has arisen for a graphic designer to join one of Victoria’s and NSW leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties.
North East Media and its related group companies are seeking a graphic designer. You must be able to multitask, have strong organisational skills and be able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. You must also be a team player who shows initiative and be able to work with minimal supervision.
Your experience will include sound skills developing artwork using Adobe InDesign. Experience designing artwork for multiple digital channels, including websites, social media, email marketing would be an advantage.
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.
Applications should be forwarded to:
Kelly Lovell
Creative Services Manager North East Media klovell@nemedia.com.au www.nemedia.com.au
their individual gifts and talents. Join our amazing team of educators and a professional environment that is passionate, collegial and focused on learning for all. We are currently seeking applicants for the following ongoing position:
Maintenance Officer
Applications close on Wednesday, September 3 at 12pm. For further details on how to apply please visit our website https://www.galen.vic.edu.au/employment/ Our school community promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children. Galen Catholic College embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Son of Charlie and Angela (both dec), brother to Mary and Glenys. Loved and loving husband of Jenny. The best Dad to Leah, Naomi, Claire, Emily, Tara, Huw and Gemma. An open-hearted father-in-law to Nick, Jon, Tara and Henry. And the greatest Poppy to Charlie, Walter, Harry, Bella, Gg, Ned, Emmett, Oscar, Morgan, and Edna.
He loved to farm, could fix anything and was always ready to help. He was generous, selfless and protective, a devoted poppy, father and husband. Among the many things he taught us, was the importance of family and community; the value of hard work, and that there is always room for ice-cream.
The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care would like to pass on their condolences to the family and friends of John Ambrosio. His passing has saddened the Illoura community.
DALTON, Myles Francis. 11/7/1936 – 18/8/2025
Passed away peacefully at home with family by his side. Loved son of Leslie and Frances (both dec). Loving husband of Barbara. Beloved father of Anthony and Vicki,
GRIFFITHS, Bernadette.
31/3/1940 – 19/8/2025
Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta.
Loving wife of Paul (dec).
Loved mother of Maria, Joanne, Anthony and Paula.
Cherished Nanna of Laura, Lucas, James, and Felix.
Great-grandmother of Denver, Everly, Henry and Francie.
Please see North East Funerals website for funeral service details.
GRIFFITHS, Bernadette.
Loved sister-in-law of Pat and Dawn.
Aunty of Andrew, Shane and their families.
JENKINS, Owen David. “Taffy”
18/2/1953 - 16/8/2025
The family of Owen David Jenkins are saddened to announce his passing on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Aged 72 years.
Owen was dearly loved by his family and he will be sadly missed by many. We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives.
Dearly loved and loving partner of Lori. Cherished Father of Matt, Lenny, Kevin, Bronnie, Scott, Jodi, Josh and Amber. Adored Poppy to all of his Grandchildren.
‘Always Remembered. Always Loved’
McBEATH (née Hill), Kaaren Anne. 4/6/1942 – 14/8/2025 Passed peacefully.
Loved sister of Christine, Anita, Michael, and Philippa.
PATERSON, William Baikie ‘Bill’.
Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Aged 91 years.
Dearly loved husband of Catherine (dec).
Loving Dad of Pamela and Les, Bill and Glenda, Anthony and Janet and their families.
A gentle nature, a heart of gold, One of the best this world could hold.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Felice Armando. ‘Felix’
6/9/1945 – 17/8/2025
Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta with family by his side. Loved son of Raffaele and Rosa Scalzo (both dec). Loving brother of Maria Gasperotti and Olga Folino. Loved Uncle of Andrew, Liana, Geoff, Tania and their families. God has you in his keeping, We have you in our hearts.
A funeral service to honour the life of John Ambrosio will be held at the Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan St, Wangaratta, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, commencing at 11am.
Private cremation will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers the family would encourage you to plant a local native in memory of John and for future generations. Donations can be made to Dementia Australia Research Foundation.
The funeral service to honour the life of Mr Myles Francis Dalton will be held in Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral, corner Ovens and Docker Streets, Wangaratta on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 commencing at 10.30am.
Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
JENKINS
Family and friends of Owen David Jenkins ‘Taffy’ are invited to attend his funeral service, which will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, August 29, 2025 commencing at 10:30am.
A private cremation will follow.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
McCORMACK, Brian.
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Brian “Hop” McCormack will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, Tuesday, August 26, 2025, commencing at 2pm.
Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mr Felice Armando “Felix” Scalzo will be offered in St Mary’s Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 10.30am.
Burial will follow at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery.
Felix’s Mass can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/ Rosary will be recited prior to Mass in St Mary’s Catholic Church commencing at 10am.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
DUNSTAN, Raymond Edwin. Passed away July 28, 2025. Isabel and all our family would like to extend our deep gratitude and sincere thank you to our family, friends and community who have supported us since the passing of our dearly loved Ray. We have been humbled by the outpouring of love, flowers, cards, food and friendship over this time. Thank you for your kindness. We are sincerely thankful for the care Ray received from Gavan, Pat and team members, Aged Care shower team and the caring staff at Illoura Aged Care.
Our deep gratitude and great appreciation to Drs Alex Traill, Matt Byrne and Phill Macleish for their expert medical care of Ray.
To Glenn and all your team at Mason Park Funerals, we are extremely grateful and thank you for your professionalism and guidance that enabled us to express our love and respect for Ray’s wonderful life.
To Wendy, Peter and all your Team at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway our sincere thanks and gratitude for your wonderful service and venue for the “Celebration of Ray’s Life”.
WE KNOW MANY SHARE OUR SADNESS AND WE THANK YOU.
Please accept this as our personal Thank You.
For more information on our special discounted subscription rates and to purchase a digital subscription visit wangaratta chronicle.com.au and select the subscribe tab.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
As the footy season inches closer to its conclusion, Merriwa Magpies are looking forward to hosting their final All Abilities Carnival for the year at Wareena Park on Sunday, 24 August.
The monthly carnival brings together the six Victorian Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) teams from Northern Victoria; Wangaratta, Wodonga, North Albury, Benalla, Shepparton, and Echuca.
On the day, Merriwa Magpies will be playing Benalla, Wodonga, and GV Stars, with the first bounce set to start at 10am and the final game set to wrap up at about 3pm.
Team manager John Mullins said the statewide ini-
JUBILEE
Thursday, 14 August
Ladies’ 18 hole stableford
Winner: Robyn Ottaway 37.
tiative has proved hugely positive for FIDA teams, bolstering the camaraderie and friendship that all sport teams possess.
“It’s an opportunity for people who are eligible to play in this particular form of Aussie Rules Footy,” he said.
“They get recognised as a team in their own right.”
Being affiliated with the Wangaratta Magpies Football Club, the team have access to training facilities down at the football ground once a week as well as general support from Wangaratta Magpies footy players.
“Throughout this year they’ve offered players from the club who come over and run our group,” John said.
“It’s been a great oppor-
tunity I think for both our group to see how the senior footballers operate and the senior footballers in turn having a chance to lend a bit of support and advice to the players.”
The team couldn’t do it without the dedicated support they’ve garnered over
the years from community members and groups, with volunteers being the force behind running activities and tournaments.
“We have a core group of parents who have had kids in the program in the past and are still involved as volunteers for the group, doing all
Ball winners: Judy Fogarty 35, Joy Hester 34, Angela Mitchell C/B 31.
NTPs - 8th: R Ottaway, 13th: L Freeland, 17th: A Mitchell.
Friday, 15 August - Medley Stableford
Winner: Jacob Schonafinger 34. Ball winners: Glenn O’Connell 31, David Woodstock 29.
NTPs - 8th: David Woodstock.
Saturday, 16 August - Ladies’ Stableford
Winner: Di Murphy C/B Linday Stone 36. Ball winners: Linda Stone 36, Vicki Moorhead 36.
NTPs - 8th: Di Murphy, 13th: Di Murphy. Men’s stableford, third round of captain’s trophy
A Grade winner: Matt Walker 36. B Grade winner: Neville Hogan C/B Jeffrey Elliott 36. C Grade winner: Ian Mills 37. D Grade winner: Matthew Whitten 39.
Ball winners: Michael Baillie 36, Ian Harbourd 36, Brian Thomas 36, Jeffrey Elliott 36, William Slade 35, Alex Jones 35, Pat Ernst 34, Jacob Schonafinger 34, Gordon Paterson 34, Geoff Nicholson 34, Ryan Harris 33, Daniel Fogarty C/B from others 32.
NTPs - 4th: Glenn O’Connell, 8th: Ryan Harris, 13th: Jim Darcy, 17th: Jacob Schonafinger.
Sunday, August 17
Medley Stableford
Winner: Daniel Lewis 35.
Ball winners: Jack Stamp 33, Mick Reidy 32.
NTPs - 8th: Aaron Kungl, 13th: Aaron Kungl, 17th: Mick Reidy.
Monday, 18 August
Veterans stableford
A Grade winner: Ian Dinsdale 39. B Grade winner: Ian Harbourd 37.
Ball winners: Ian Mills 32, Andrew Walker 30.
NTPs - 8th: Ian Dinsdale, 13th: John McKenzie.
Tuesday, 19 August
Ladies 18 Hole Pairs Championships
Winners: Ange Mitchell/Mary Jones 144. Runners Up: Leanne Carmody/Di Murphy 147.
Scratch Winners: Leanne Carmody/ Di Murphy 170.
Ball winners: Melody Adams/Linda Stone 151.
NTPs - 4th: Vicki Moorhead, 8th: Di Murphy, 13th: Di Murphy, 17th: Ange Mitchell.
Wednesday, August 20
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Gary Butler 40. B
Grade winner: Gordon Hines 35. C
Grade winner: Noel Holmes 36.
Ball winners: Andrew Skewes 37, Andrew Walker 35, Neville Hogan 34, Michael Baillie 33, Stan Goldsworthy 33, Terry Docherty on C/b from many 32.
NTPs - 4th: Peter Challman, 8th: Noel Holmes, 13th: Terry Docherty, 17th: Brian Wallace.
Men’s 9 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Joe Marjanovic Jnr 21. B Grade winner: Garry Dickson 17. Ball winners: Brian Thomas 19, Jez Rigoni 18, Allen Mercer 16, Mick Matthews on C/b Doug Ritchens 16. NTPs - 4th: Joe Marjanovic Jnr, 8th: Brian Thomas.
TARRA GOLF CLUB
The members played for the mixed championships.
The scratch division was won by Mark Nolan and Di McLaughlin on the first playoff hole, after they and Angelo Garraffo and Cindy Hardy both finished with 94.
The handicap division was won by Angelo Garraffo and Cindy Hardy with a nett score of 72.5.
Ball winners were Lindsay Steer and Lynn Barrow - there were no nearest the pins for the day.
Golf to be played on Saturday, 23 August will be the par three course and all members both men and ladies most welcome.
Tarra Ladies
Despite a frosty start to the day a good crew fronted up to a stableford event last Tuesday.
The course was in excellent condition and so the players had a very enjoyable round.
The winner for the day was Cindy Hardy followed closely by Joan Quarrell.
A few players “nearly got on” on the Nearest The Pin Holes but none was successful enough to win a ball.
Hopefully the forecast rain will hold off to let the Ladies have another enjoyable day next Tuesday.
WANG GOLF CLUB
The Wangaratta Golf Club women’s singles knockout final was played Tuesday, 19 August in beautiful sunny winter weather.
A total of 19 women golfers
participated in this gold letter event.
The winner was Jacqui Hoggan who defeated Barb Thomas 6/5.
Although both were on the same handicap, Jacqui played outstanding golf and Barb was well beaten on the day as witnessed by referee Sue McCall.
Well done to Jacqui who is playing very good golf - this is her first singles knockout win, and she is also the 2025 women’s div two champion, a great achievement for someone in only their second year of golf.
WANG CROQUET
Results for Monday, 18 August are as follows:
Susan Fischer and Joan Dyson d Wendy Waddington and Terry Wilson 7/4, Nathan Reynolds d Maureen O’Keefe 7/6.
Last Friday, Goulburn Valley defeated the North East in the annual challenge match, which was held at Cobram.
The North East managed to win Division 3, however, the aggregate score for all divisions meant Goulburn Valley won the day.
On Wednesday, 10 members enjoyed some close games in the winter sunshine.
Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
Results, Round 8 - Wednesday, 13 August
A Grade
Appin Park Store (Evan Kibble, John Wright) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Markus Angehrn, Nathan Vincent) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: E Kibble 1, J Wright 2, M Angehrn 1. Doubles: N Vincent and M Angehrn.
Somerset Communications (Ash Wurtz, Robert Voss) def Boralma Berkshire (Tom Brown, Austin Lindner) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: A Wurtz 2, R Voss 1, T Brown 1. Doubles: T Brown and A Lindner.
B Grade
LEAP OF FAITH: Chloe Smith (Merriwa Magpies) goes for the ball in an earlier game between Wangaratta and North Albury.
of the things that footy clubs need,” John said.
“The centres that attend have all got great support around them with their coaches and trainers.
“We’ve had great support from our local umpires here in the area.
“The majority [of the play-
Nathan Vincent Contracting (Steve Picken, Andrew Holmes) def Auto 8 (Seth Knox, Ron Divinagracia) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: S Picken 2, S Knox 1, R Divinagracia 1. Doubles: S Picken and A Holmes.
Somerset Communications (Sienna Bajada, John Bajada) def Boralma Berkshire (Klaus Kazenwadel, Tim Oliver) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: J Bajada 2, K Kazenwadel 1, T Oliver 1. Doubles: J and S Bajada.
Blue Raven (Michael Bellingham, Phil Fitzgerald) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (Ted Tatulaschwili, Aaron Plum) final rubber score 5/0.
Michael and Phil won every match but despite the result there were a couple of tight ones.
C Grade
Boralma Berkshire (Jesse Hughes, Jesse O’Brien) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (James Young, Matt Curran) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: J O’Brien 2, J Young 1, M Curran 1. Doubles: J Hughes and J O’Brien.
The boys enjoyed a very long ‘deciding’ doubles match - the Jesse’s prevailed 14/12 in the seventh game resulting in an overall win to Boralma Berkshire.
Somerset Communications (Reg Kanaskar, Isaac Hackett ) def Auto 8 (Tim Loffler, Josh Loffler) final rubber score 3/2.
Matches won – Singles: R Kanaskar 2, J Loffler 1, T Loffler 1. Doubles: R Kanaskar and I Hackett.
The end of the winter season is looming, the final round will be played on 27 August and finals commence on 3 September.
New players always welcome at Wednesday evening competition, Monday and Thursday Keen-agers and/ or Tuesday morning social table tennis.
Enquiries: Tom Brown (president) 0429 809 927 or email wangarattatabletennis@gmail.com.
WARBY WALKERS
Sunday, 17 August - Barry Falls, Eldorado.
This walk was on a rather cold and overcast day with a 50 per cent chance of a shower.
After parking in a camping space close to Kangaroo Crossing on Reedy Creek (also known as Reid’s Creek,
ers] have been students of the special school... we’ve got a good group of young teachers down at the school who have offered their services as umpires.”
John encouraged people to come along to show their support for local all abilities footy.
“It’s a great spectacle for people who haven’t had the opportunity to go and see people playing to their own ability,” he said.
“Quite a few of the players have their carers out on the ground with them, so it’s all played in really good spirit.
“The whole idea really is just to give them the experience of being out on the footy game.”
There will be also be food and coffee available on the day, as well as a raffle.
Eldorado Creek and Woolshed Creek), 14 rugged-up participants took a bush track through to Nieoff’s Road.
After turning right onto the road, we walked the short distance to Warbler Track.
Along that track we passed the intersection for Currawong Track, then after a couple of narrow stream crossings we reached the one that lets you know if there is or is not water going over the upcoming falls.
The stream did not disappoint, and we continued on the picturesque bush track to Barry Falls for morning tea.
Following morning tea, we returned along the gully to Warbler Track and continued onto the other intersection with Nieoff’s Road.
From here, four walkers went left to return to the foot track to Kangaroo Crossing completing a walk of approximately 6km.
The remaining walkers continued to the right and the steady uphill to reach the mine ruins and a dam.
The ‘Hidden Friend Tin Mine’ was reached for lunch with views overlooking the Ovens Valley and towards the Warby Ranges, and we explored the ruins.
Following the exploring, we returned to Nieoff’s Road to take the track opposite and downhill to a picturesque dam surrounded by forest.
The dam slows the water flow to Barry Falls.
We returned to Nieoff’s Road and had a quick descent back to the foot track to Kangaroo Crossing.
Those who completed the longer route walked approximately 10k and it did not rain at all.
Coming Events Saturday, 30 August - Ritchies Track, Stanley State Forest. Lesley, 0439 776 687.
A medium walk of approximately 12km, beginning at Old Stanley Road.
This walk has several steep sections, and is mostly on 4WD gravel roads, with plenty of shade.
We pass by the outskirts of Stanley township.
Wednesday, 3 September - Canola Walk, Rutherglen-Wahgunyah. Greg, 0407 868 070.
An easy flat walk of approximately 9km along the bike path between Rutherglen and Wahgunyah to view the stunning yellow canola fields, which should be blooming at this time.
The NGI Group under 12 boys Dragons made the trip north to face the Wombats from Albury in what turned out to be a thrilling and dominant performance from the visiting side, taking home a 4–0 victory.
From the opening whistle, the Dragons came out firing, with Oscar Reid, Leo Fidge, and Miles Henderson setting the tone in midfield.
Wil Reilly played a pivotal role up forward, linking up well and helping transition the ball smoothly into the attacking half.
Adding an exciting twist were two stars from the under 12 girls team - Wil’s younger sister Pippa Reilly, and Maddy Benton - who both slotted seamlessly into the squad.
The scoreboard continued to tick over with goals from Patrick Lipshut and Lewis Henderson, extending the Dragons’ lead and putting the result beyond doubt.
But it was Max Wood who truly stood out, earning the gest on ground honours - his fearless tackling and tireless off-the-ball running made him the engine room of the team, constantly creating opportunities.
The Dragons’ win showcased their skill and teamwork and highlighted the depth and spirit within the club.
UNDER 12 GIRLS
On Saturday, the NGI Group Under 12 girls faced the Wombats in a game they controlled from the very start.
Pippa Reilly opened the scoring for the Dragons, and the next goal was a real standout - an excellent passage of play with sharp passing from Lilly Wood to Lilly Barrett, finished off with style.
The Dragons ran out convincing winners, 9–0, with seven different goal scorers highlighting just how well they are working together, and the confidence they’re gaining in front of goal.
It was another early start for the under 14 boys, 8.15am in Albury against top of the table Magpies.
This was always going to be a tough match and the Magpies came out quickly and immediately applied pressure.
Our defenders were under pressure for most of the match, led by Joseph Robertson in goals who skilfully saved many goal attempts.
Our defenders, including Alex Rymill and Will Reilly, worked hard, making many great tackles and clearances from defence.
Leo Fidge, James Wheeler and Chris Munzel ran hard making plays and tackles in the midfield, and Harvey, when he got the rare chance, showed speed and skill in attack.
Despite their best efforts, the Dragons went down 0-11.
The Butlers Pantry under 16 Dragons matched the Magpies in a tight first quarter, with both sides locked at nil-all.
From the second quarter, however, the Magpies gained the upper hand and built a strong lead, running out winners 0-6.
Noah Fitzgerald was again outstanding in goals, repeatedly cutting off scoring opportunities, while Rory Gibb’s effort earned him the Coaches’ Award.
All players gave their best, with the consistent and reliable work of senior players Alistair Merritt, Edward Robinson, Atticus Thompson, Hamish Kerr, and Tom Wright deserving special mention.
The last time the under 16 Corowa Wangaratta United Girls played against Scots, they were taught a lesson in mastery.
However, during their recent encounter on Friday night, the United girls rose to the challenge and in a spirited display, were able to hold the Scots team to just two goals.
The United girls were strong in defence, creating stoppages of play and clearing the ball well back to the offensive line.
Maddi Reid and Macy Douch were impenetrable, whilst Sophie Shallue and Lily Radnor played well in the midfield, creating some plays to look dangerous in front of goals.
Sarah Rhodes ran well all game, and Amelia McAleice was once again in the mix, making good position in front of goals.
Despite the strong team play from the United girls, the top of the ladder Scots eventually hung on to take the victory 2-0.
The SF Builders division three men’s team met Wodonga at home on Saturday afternoon.
The first quarter saw the Dragons stand their ground against second position on the ladder, with strong performances in the midfield by Stewart Kerr, Simon Lipshut and Tim Longman.
Late in the first quarter Izaac Cameron earned a stroke, which he easily converted to a goal.
The second quarter saw Wangaratta fighting hard with their backline being asked many times to hold their ground.
Keeper Micheal McMurrie bounded around the front of goal like a gazelle while Dave McIntyre, Daniel Warner and Wes Samson solidified the teams’ defences.
For the first half of the game the Dragons had the upper hand, but in the third quarter Wodonga brought in a couple of key players off the bench.
Wangaratta also made a key player change with the injection of the dynamic father son duo of Cameron and Caleb Gillies.
Caleb’s legs were tasked with marking key Wodonga players while Cameron subbed into the backline.
On the frontline, Izaac once again found the back of the goals to give Wang a 2-0 lead.
Wodonga capitalised on some key moments in the final quarter and were able to turn their deficit in to an even score, but with less than 10 seconds to play, Wodonga hit the lead.
Post-match coach Michael asked the team to reflect on what was clearly the team’s best performance this year.
The West End Cycles Wangaratta division three women put on an excellent display against CR United over the weekend.
The team worked hard across the whole field, using strong triangle passing and applying tight pressure on their opponents to continually win the ball back.
Wangaratta created plenty of opportunities, with multiple short corners throughout the match.
Kate Reilly capitalised on one of these chances, scoring the only goal of the game.
The defensive line of Lesley, Mim, Katie and Shaz held strong, while the attacking end was driven by Kylie S, Kylie R, Lou, Kaitlyn and many others who kept the pressure on CR United.
Best and fairest went to Jaimelee Sexton, in a strong team effort.
The Workfit North East Physio division two men had a hard-fought game against Wodonga on Sunday morning.
The Dragons were faced with an early run from a Wodonga forward, which passed the defensive team and gave Wodonga an early lead.
The Dragons did not let this early goal deter them and they were soon on the attack.
Multiple times throughout each quarter the midfield intercepted the ball and pushed through to the forwards to try on goal.
The defensive team kept the score at 1 – 0.
By JUNE UEBERGANG
The frigid outside temperatures were no deterrent to the 19 ‘amateur professionals’ who arrived at the Oxley hall to enjoy the warmth of the social and physical activity at the weekly social table tennis competition last Monday night.
Ripping straight into gear, the heat was on when Kate Cole and Clive Brooker took on Neil Spurgeon and Paul Laurence in a ‘give it your all’ game from start to finish.
While Kate ‘tipped the light fantastic,’ Clive used power and positivity to the nth degree, but there was fire and fervour aplenty in Neil and Paul’s intent on giving Kate and Clive a real run for their money. And while Neil and Paul lost, Kate and Clive won by a ‘close shave.’
Kate Woodberry was all coated up in confidence when she and Adam Riv-
ett fronted up to Madeleine Rivett and Adam Bosley, in a game of ups and downs from the first point of an exciting game for all.
Wide and narrow, long and short shots, laced with an ounce of luck, were all on show as each pair tried to outfox the other in their valiant attempts to win each point.
With an ‘up and Adam’ on each end of the table, cheerleaders on the sidelines were confused as to which pair they were barracking for –however, after a lot of fun and laughter, final scores revealed Adam and his partner won the tiebreaker.
In a game that had it all, Manni Poulos paired up with the new bloke on the scene, Bruce Fletcher, to take on Gary Coad and June Uebergang. From the word ‘go’ it was a game packed with surprises, as each pair rose and fell to their opponent’s game style
and implementation.
After getting away to a surprising sizeable lead, it appeared Gary and June had the goods in the bag, but Manni and Bruce had other ideas, as they slowly but surely pegged them back to level the score, and enforce the tie-breaker, which went point for point endlessly, until by a stroke of luck, Gary and June “snuck in” with the win.
With all in ‘business-like’ mode, it was ‘game on’ from the moment Ryan delivered the first serve in his signature slice and dice fashion.
After what seemed an eternity, final scores saw Graham and Ryan take away a narrow victory.
After arriving late, William Bonwick was treated to a surprise when everyone gathered to wish him belated 30th birthday greetings, and sing the Happy Birthday song while he blew out the candle on his cake.
Back home from sunny QLD, Cheryl Coad was well rugged up when she and Richard Morgan joined forces to put Adam Bosley and Neil Brock to the test, in a game packed with everything bar the kitchen sink. Though game styles were different, objectives were the same, as they pushed and pulled the ball, and each other, to all points of the compass and beyond.
After the lead had ricocheted throughout the long contest, when asked who won, one answered “It was a draw!”
David Harris was at his lively best when he and Martin Butcher joined forces to challenge Graham Stephens – who still calls Oxley home – and the talented young Ryan Van Der Poel, in a game that delivered a spectacle in spades.
Another enjoyable night ended with everyone tucking into a cuppa and supper, while enjoying the night’s warm social and physical atmosphere.
Adults and secondary students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley hall every Monday night beginning at 7 pm. BYO bat, $2 entry, and a plate to share.
North East Baseball Association will play their last games before the finals this weekend and the pressure is on in all grades to see who plays who.
Sundays game saw Wodonga Warriors play Wangaratta Rangers Orange in all five grades at Gayview Park, Wodonga.
In the A grade game, Fraser Chadwick started on the mound for Warriors and had only thrown 14 pitches when Rangers lost their third out, with only one runner getting on base.
Owen Godenzi was Rangers’ first pitcher, pitching three innings with Warriors not scoring any runs in the first two, then their first batter in their third turn at bat got on base from a two-base hit to centre field and was able to come home before they lost their third out.
Rangers had seven batters in their second dig, scoring one run on an error by Warriors but left bases loaded when their third out was made.
In their third turn at bat, they left two runners on base, and the score was one run each at the top of the fourth.
Rangers Orange started to get runners on base with their solid batting to bring in two more runs then left bases loaded again when they
lost their third out.
A change in pitcher by Orange saw Warriors not adding to their score in their next two innings.
Rangers added another run in their next turn at bat to hold a three-run lead at the top of the sixth innings.
Another change of pitcher by Rangers brought a little luck to Warriors when their first batter to face him hit deep to right field and was brought home before side away was called.
Warriors’ change of pitcher at this time stopped the Ranger run rate completely for the next two innings, but they were able to hang on and win a tight low scoring game, Rangers defeating Warriors 4-2. In the B grade game, Rangers only had four batters face the pitcher in their first turn at bat and no score was made.
Warriors were in the same boat only they scored one run when their first batter took advantage of the pitcher in his warm up pitches by stealing bases.
Rangers’ first two runs were scored from errors made by Warriors, and they added another two in their second dig from their own good base running to hold a four run to two lead at the top of the third dig.
Rangers slowly got their
batting going when they brought in another run in their next innings, another four in the fourth and six in their last, while Warriors could only add another one run to their score, Rangers winning 15-3.
Wangaratta Rangers batted through their first innings against Warriors in the C grade game using seven batters to bring in three runs.
Warriors then scored one run from their first five batters.
Both teams added just one run each in the second innings for Rangers to lead four runs to two at the top of the third.
Safe hits were few and far between for both teams all game with Darcy Sanders and Katie Maiden the only other Rangers players to hit safely having one each, while Jenna Mercer was the only Warriors batter to get a safe hit all game.
Wangaratta Rangers won 5-2.
Both teams had good numbers in the under 15s –Rangers Orange batted first to bring in one run, then Warriors brought in six and only having one out when their seventh batter got on base safely.
Rangers added two runs to Warriors one in the second dig then they scored another
five runs in the third innings while Warriors held on to win by one run when they brought in a runner just before they lost their third out. Warriors defeated Rangers Orange 9-8 in a tight junior game.
In the under 12s game, Rangers Orange was first to bat and could only score one run, then Warriors brought home six runs in their opening dig.
The tables turned in the second innings when Orange scored the maximum seven runs in their bat, whilst Warriors could only get two runners’ home and level the score to eight each. Rangers did not add to their score in the third bat while Warriors brought in six.
In the fourth, Rangers brought in another seven runs and Warriors did not score with the Rangers holding on to win 15-14 in a game that both sides should be proud of.
In the games being played at Springdale Heights, Wangaratta Rangers Black were playing Albury Bears in the A grade game.
Rangers batted first with their first batter getting on safely from a two-base hit to left field and he was brought home by the following play before they lost their third out.
Bears doubled the Rangers’ score when they brought in two runs in their first innings.
Both teams went three up, three down in their second dig.
Black added another run in their third innings and got Bears out again without them getting any runs to even the score on two runs each at the start of the third and the game was a tight one.
Bears broke away in their next bat when they added three runs after stopping Rangers from scoring in their turn at bat - in fact, they stopped Rangers from adding to their score for the rest of the game.
Bears added another five runs in their last turn at bat to win 10-2.
In the earlier B grade game, it looked like the Bears were going to be too strong for the Rangers when they held a four-run lead at the top of the third innings.
Rangers Black got back in the game when they brought in three runs and then stopped Bears from getting any more to be just one run behind at the start of the fourth innings.
Rangers Black could taste victory when they brought in two more runs in their next turn at bat, then got Bears out three up, three down in
both their last two innings and added another two runs themselves in the last dig for Rangers to win 11-8.
Rangers Black under 15s got off to a good start when the leadoff batter, Kazu Anderson Ohata, hit a threebase hit to right field and came home when the next batters where brought in, with the help of fielding errors, to score three runs for the dig before holding Bears to just one run in their first turn at bat.
In fact, Bears did not score any more runs for the game, but their fielding pressure built up and kept Rangers to adding another two runs to their score and win by just four runs in the end.
Although Bears won the under 12s game against the Rangers by a lot of runs, the less-experienced Rangers boys and girls showed that they enjoyed the game and that they learnt a lot from their opposition on how and where to stand in the field. By the end of the game, Rangers had scored six runs to Bears 30 with all players wanting to come back next season as the junior finals are on this Sunday and they just missed out.
The last round of the home and aways games are being all played in Wangaratta at Targoora Park on Sunday.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Who doesn’t love a good underdog story?
Wangaratta City FC’s senior sides have made the cut and will compete in the 2025 Albury Wodonga Football Association finals series, which commences this Sunday, 24 August.
While they have passed the threshold to continue their season, they’ll be outside chances to take home any silverware.
The senior men finished seventh overall, set to take on second-placed Albury Hotspurs, while the division one women will also face the Hotspurs after scraping into the top eight by a point.
with the top of the table Hotspurs last weekend due to player unavailabilities.
coach Raul Pahina said.
WANGARATTA CITY FC FINALS SCHEDULE – SUNDAY, 24 AUGUST
D1M vs Albury Hotspurs – 3pm Kelly Park 1
D1W vs Albury Hotspurs – 11.10am Ian Barker Fields 1
D2M vs Wodonga Diamonds – 12.50pm Melrose Park 1
D2W vs Wodonga Diamonds – 9.25am LaTrobe Ground 1
U12 boys Red vs Albury Hotspurs Gold – 8am Melrose Park 2
U12 boys Black vs St Pats Gold – 9.10am Melrose Park 2
U14 boys vs Albury Hotspurs – 12.55pm Ian Barker Fields 2
U16 boys vs Albury United - 8am Melrose Park 1
U13 girls vs Twin City Maroon – 11.40am Melrose Park 2
U15 girls vs Cobram Roar – 2.15pm Melrose Park 2
UNDERDOGS: Adam Jordan and the senior Devils will look to pull off the upset of the year against second-placed Albury Hotspurs. PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography
the Albury side hasn’t won a match.
Coach Vitaly Leschen said there was no reason they couldn’t pull one over Hotspurs, given how well they played last week, but it would be difficult.
“It’s obviously a tough game, you don’t often get through the first week from seventh,” he said.
“Last weekend, and really the second half of the season, gives us a bit of confidence that we can challenge them.
It will be an especially challenging run for the Lady Devils, who were forced to forfeit their final round clash
Despite the long odds, the Lady Devils will fight like hell to secure the upset.
“It will be our biggest challenge of the season,” division one women’s
“Half the squad will be playing reserve women, which will make things very tough, but we will have a side, and go in with confidence.
“It will be the biggest upset of the year if we can pull it
off, but I have full faith that the girls will leave nothing behind and give it their best.
“I can’t wait to knock them out of the quarter finals.”
The senior men also have an uphill battle, slated to take on Hotspurs for the second week in a row.
While the ladder paints a very clear picture of who is expected to advance to the semis, in finals, it’s never that simple.
The Devils are fresh off taking a 1-1 draw with ‘Spurs, a tremendous achievement and just the fifth time all year
“The boys are well and truly up for it and are excited for Sunday.
“We’re hoping to see as much of the Wangaratta community as possible pitch-side on Sunday to see us through.”
In other grades, there will be plenty of representation from the red and black, with 10 squads total making finals.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
One of the closest seasons of Ovens and King netball will take yet another step up this weekend as the finals series commences.
Teams who finished from third through to sixth across the five grades will take to the court in the pressure cooker which is finals netball, with 10 scintillating matches on the cards.
One of the headline fixtures is Saturday’s A grade elimination final between Tarrawingee and Bright, slated for a 2.30pm start on the court at the North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve.
Despite finishing at opposite ends of the elimination final bracket, Tarrawingee has only won three more games than Bright, and the two teams have enjoyed some spirited contests throughout the home and away season.
Back in round four, the Bulldogs took the points up at Pioneer Park 55-47, and when the two teams next met at the Kennel in round 17, it was a low scoring thriller with Tarrawingee again coming up trumps 32-23.
Tarrawingee coach Tig White said Bright was not to
be underestimated for an instant.
“At the end of the day it doesn’t matter where anyone finishes on the ladderevery finals game is going to be tough, no matter who or when it’s played,” she said.
“Bright have been such a competitive side this year, so to play them for a third time this season is going to bring a tough match.
“There is not one section of
the court that stands out with Bright, they are a well-gelled team who put the pressure on in every position, across the whole court.
“Keeping control of our own possessions will be a key focus for us on the day.”
As recent as a week ago, the Bulldogs were slated to advance to the semi-finals, but the bye in round 20 denied them a chance to pick up points, and were sub-
sequently leapfrogged by Whorouly and forced down to third on the ladder.
Being made to take the long road to the decider, as well as a mandatory week away from competition, means it’s going to be a tough time for Tarrawingee.
“The bye in round 20 set a challenge for us,” White said.
“As nice as it was to have the week off and fit in a rest, it would have been good to
O&K NETBALL FINALS SCHEDULE – WEEK 1
Saturday, 23 August
@ North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve
15 and under – Bright vs King Valley 9.10am
17 and under – Moyhu vs Milawa 10.30am
B reserve - Moyhu vs Whorouly 11.50am
B grade – Whorouly vs Bright 1.10pm
A grade – Tarrawingee vs Bright 2.30pm
Sunday, 24 August
@ Whorouly Recreation Reserve
15 and under – Greta vs Milawa 9.10am
17 and under – Bright vs King Valley 10.30am
B reserve – Tarrawingee vs Benalla All Blacks 11.50am
B grade – Goorambat vs Tarrawingee 1.10pm
A grade – Goorambat vs Bonnie Doon 2.30pm
TRIPLE TIME: Tig White and the Bulldogs will look to make it three wins from three matches with Bright this year, and keep their season alive. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
continue the momentum, especially because the bye gave us no opportunity to increase our percentage for that last round in such a tight competition.
“With the bye in the last round, we knew ahead of time that we would lose our top two finish, so at least we were able to start preparing for a first week of finals games.
“The whole squad is so ex-
cited to be hitting finals, it really does give a different feel to the rest of the season.
“The games are so much more intense, especially in our situation where there are no second chances.”
The other A grade elimination final pits reigning premiers Bonnie Doon against the hungry Goorambat, with the winner to take on whoever triumphs out of Bright and the Bulldogs.
Milawa’s reserves take on North Wangaratta in the midday clash, and will hope to inspire their senior counterparts with a strong performance.
The battle rolls on into Sunday, when Whorouly and Goorambat will take to the field at Whorouly Recreation Reserve, hoping to keep the dream alive.
They’ve had some incredible clashes this season, from the Bats’ heroic last quarter comeback in round nine, to the Lions statement of intent in the round 16 return fixture.
It’s the first time we’ve seen the men in maroon in the postseason since 2019, a six-year absence which coach Michael Newton said was far too long.
“Everyone around the club is just pumped and really looking forward to the opportunity,” he said.
“Since I took over, I wanted us to be competitive in both grades, but to put together the last few weeks of footy that we have, getting healthy at the right time, it’s a big plus.
“We’ve got Josh [Newton] and Andy [Newton] coming back, it sounds like Ollie [Dixon] is going to be right to play reserves - there are not too many guys out injured at the moment, which is pleasing for a coach, but it doesn’t make
selection any easier at all.”
Newton said finals were a different beast from a regular home and away game, but limiting the Bats’ key players would be vital.
“They’ve got some quality players across the ground,” he said.
“Jamie Dunne, I believe he had 15 clearances the last time we played them, he gets a bit of the footy in the back half of the ground, and they’ve got some dangerous forwards in [Duane] Haebich, and [Rhys] Goodley can take a grab.
“It’ll be interesting to see how we go, because finals are a completely different game.
“The grass smells a bit different, it does weird and wonderful things to a lot of people.
“It’s depending on which team settles and gets their game going, because there are going to be parts of the game where both teams are going to have momentum swings – it’s going to be a matter of which team’s able to settle quickest.”
The Lions’ reserves will be in action from 12pm, taking on Bonnie Doon’s twos for the first time since the opening round of the year.
Finals football is here, with games slated for North Wangaratta on Saturday and Whorouly on Sunday.
Wangaratta Magpies A grade netballers are looking to finish the season on a high when they host Albury at the Norm Minns Oval netball courts on Saturday.
Although the side cannot make the Ovens and Murray finals this season, there is still plenty to play for on a personal level and for the club, with several other grades looking to compete in the playoffs.
Albury has registered just one win for the season and the last time these teams met, the Magpies reigned supreme in a 59-18 shellacking.
And with players of the ilk of Amanda Umanski, Hannah Grady, Kate Dean, Milly O’Kane, Claire Wilson and Leah Jenvey, it’s unlikely the going will be any easier this time round for the Tigers.
For coach Shea Cunningham, the home court is an ideal venue for her team to
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
end the season in triumph.
“Looking ahead to Saturday, we see it as a real opportunity, not just to finish on a high, but to show the growth and grit that’s been building all season,” Cunningham said.
“It might not change the ladder, but it means a lot to us, to our supporters, and to the club.
“There’s plenty of pride in the dress, and I’ve got no doubt the girls will bring that fire.”
And although the season comes to an official end for most of the A graders after this weekend, they are by no means putting the gear away just yet, with the club featuring in finals in most other grades.
The Magpies B grade side looks poised to finish the season on top of the ladder, C grade sits second behind Myrtleford, and 17 and under are in fourth position.
The 15 and under side will finish just outside the top five in sixth spot, the same as the A grade, highlighting how the club was more than competitive at every level of the competition and auguring well for the future.
“As for Mad Monday, we’ll hold off on that,” Cunningham said.
“The focus is on supporting our other grades in the finals and celebrating the season as a whole once everyone’s journey is complete.
“That shared spirit is something we’re really proud of.”
Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers have the chance to score their second win of the 2025 season when they meet
Wodonga at Martin Park on the weekend.
After their pulsating epic encounter last round, the players are focused on making it two in a row, according to coach Gracie Reid.
“The girls enjoyed the win, but come Tuesday, it was back to business,” she said.
“We locked in and trained hard ahead of our last game against Wodonga.
“The last time we played them was a bittersweet loss, we went down by five goals.
“We were trailing all game and just couldn’t quite break away.
“This weekend, our focus will be on having a solid start, strong connections across the court, and keeping a positive mindset from the first whistle to the last.
“We know what we’re capable of, and we’re ready to give it everything.”
The last round of the 2025 Ovens and Murray season at the Norm Minns Oval this weekend will allow the Wangaratta Magpies to honour premiership sides from the years ending in ‘5’.
Initially marked as the 40th year reunion of the club’s 1985 reserves flag, it will now incorporate the grand final winning teams from 1905 (seniors O&K league), 1925 (seniors O&M), 1945 (seniors Murray Valley League), 1975 (thirds O&M), and 2015 (thirds O&M).
Wangaratta Football and Netball Club (WFNC) extends an invitation to all who had a connection to these teams to come down and enjoy a day at the football when the Magpies take on Albury this Saturday.
It’s also 100 years since the club’s first O&M senior premiership in the famous victory of season 1925, after having been runners up in 1922, ‘23, and ‘24.
The WFNC continues to search for copies of the 1931 and 1932 O&K premiership team photos as well as the 1933 O&M premiership photo and look forward to hearing from any one who may be able to help.
Celebrations for the 1985 reserves reunion will kick off about midday at the River Bar before moving to the clubrooms after the match.
If you are a past player, official, relative or supporter of the side come down and catch up with over 20 attendees from the team.
The team is expected to go into the match unchanged.
In other grades for the Hawks, C grade showed great improvement in going down by just five goals to Myrtleford last week, a massive turnaround from their 15-goal loss earlier in the season.
“While it wasn’t the result they wanted, it’s a strong and achievable scoreline that builds real confidence for the team and coach Deb heading into finals,” Reid said.
“The growth and belief in this group is clear, and they’re peaking at the right time.”
In the 17 and unders, the battle for top spot remains tight.
Raiders and Rovers continue to swap between first and second place, with percentage the only thing separating them.
“With Raiders taking on fifth and Rovers facing seventh on the ladder this week-
end, it will all come down to final-round percentage to determine the minor premiers,” Reid said.
“Every goal will count.”
The 15 and unders are preparing for a tough final game, coming up against Wodonga who currently sit third on the ladder.
“Last time they met, Rovers went down by 12 goals, so this week’s focus will be on tightening up their play and closing that margin,” Reid said. B grade, sitting sixth, will face off against the Bulldogs (seventh) in what’s shaping up to be a fierce contest.
“Rovers had a narrow one goal win last time the two sides met, so the Bulldogs will no doubt be hungry for redemption,” Reid said.
“Our girls will be looking to finish the season on a high and defend their previous win with pride and grit.”
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Wangaratta’s senior footballers will look to fire a warning shot on the eve of finals as they send off the regular season at the Wangaratta Showgrounds against Albury on Saturday.
The Magpies all but guaranteed their spot in finals with a 60-point win over the winless Wodonga Raiders last weekend.
While it’s mathematically possible for the sixth-placed Wodonga to leapfrog Wangaratta into fifth, they would need to beat Wangaratta Rovers by around 90 points at Martin Park and have the Magpies lose to Albury by the same amount.
REMEMBER WHEN: Players from the WFNC 1985 reserves premiership side will be out in force on Saturday at the Norm Minns Oval for their 40th year reunion.
They will eagerly await the result of North Albury against Myrtleford at McNamara Reserve to see who they will line up against in their sudden death
The ‘Pies had lost their last three going to Birallee Park, despite showing promising signs against quality sides.
Coach Jason Heatley said it was pleasing to see his team respond strongly in the first half.
“We were under no illusions we needed to go to Raiders and win, and we put the game away pretty early,” he said.
Michael Bordignon, Nick Richards, Brad Melville and Harry Smart were all rested last weekend, while Murray Bushrangers prodigies Blake Newton, Max Bihun and Oscar Roberts came in and filled the void.
Newton was the best of the bunch snagging a game-high
four goals to go with 18 disposals while Dan Sharrock played his best game since returning from injury to finish with 28 touches and 10 clearances.
Heatley said he was hoping all four senior players would be available for Saturday’s clash as the under 18s Bushrangers would return to their representative footy for their last game of the Coates Talent League season.
“We were always happy to give them opportunity at some point, and they’ve been pretty consistent with the opportunities that they’ve got,” Heatley said. Albury have been losers of four of their past five games, but they’ve shown shown their best can match it with anyone, boasting wins against Rovers, North Albury and Wangaratta the last time the two sides met.
“They’re a pretty good side, especially around the footy and forward to centre,” Heatley said.
“If we just do our job and play the way that we want to play, hopefully it lands in our favour.” Wangaratta Rovers will play their final round match at Wodonga against the Bulldogs, having sewn up the minor premiership last week.
OAK FM votes: Round 17 Rovers vs Myrtleford: 5 J. McQuade (Rov), 4 A. McCarthy (Rov), 3 X. Allison (Rov), 2 K. Agosta (Myrt), 1 S.
Raiders
3
4
5
2
Leader: T. Broomhead (NA) 35. Second: J. Gaynor (Alb) 33.
North
Richmond
West
(Optus
SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY
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Years in operation: We have been trading for over 40 years now.
Opening Hours: 8am til 5pm Monday to Friday & 8.30am til 12 noon Saturday.
Who’s who at Wangaratta Bearings and Industrial Supplies: (left to right)
Danni Barber, Greg Oates, Brendon French, Dylan Fishcher, Greg Baker, Tony Gigliotti, Chris McInnes – Manager, Craig Fruend, Donna McInnes, Richard Nunn, Jodie Edwards.
The weather may be fine and the days might be getting longer, with the scent of freshly cut grass on the warm breeze, but don’t be fooled – this time of year is brutal and unforgiving.
We guarantee:
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
this weekend, their seasons will be harshly and suddenly killed off in front of them.
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against the Bombers this weekend.
It’s finals time in the Ovens and King Football Netball League, and the road to premiership glory kicks
off across Saturday at North Wangaratta and Sunday at Whorouly with elimination finals.
For half of the teams taking to the field and court
Put a single toe wrong, lose focus for a millisecond, and you’re done.
In senior football, Milawa and Bonnie Doon will have the first opportunity to claim a kill, going head-to-head on Saturday.
Thanks to their third-place finish to the home and away season, as well as a 93-point demolition job against the same opponent just last week, the Demons enter as hot favourites, but Milawa coach Matt Graham said their recent performance wouldn’t mean they were guaranteed the same result
“We looked at it [last week’s match] like it was the first leg of a two-leg playoff,” he said.
“Finals football, once it’s on, that switch flicks for every team, so you can’t be off at all.
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“We know as soon as we get to North Wang’s ground, it’s going to be a completely different team for four quarters of football.
“We’re not expecting a walkover at all, we know they had a couple of players resting at the end of the game, so they’ll have some more in the tank to give.”
■ Continued page 36