WangarattaChronicleFridayOctober32025

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2am this Sunday October 5 when clocks are put forward one hour.

CRASH AT TRUCK STOP

Changes to emergency relief services in Wangaratta are in motion, with Anglicare Victoria set to cease operations at its Ovens Street base from January.

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

Anglicare Victoria chief executive officer Paul McDonald said the group had been unsuccessful in securing federal government funding to continue its services in Wangaratta,

which have been running in the rural city since 2008.

“As such, (we) are unable to continue local operations,” he said.

Mr McDonald said Anglicare Victoria was disappointed to be withdrawing its emergency

relief services from Wangaratta.

“It has been a privilege to serve the Wangaratta community over these years, and we understand families and households will feel the impact of our emergency relief services

ending,” Mr McDonald said.

“In an effort to support them during this time, we are extending services to 1 January, 2026.

“This is beyond the funding end date and gives residents more time to access our supports.”

South Wangaratta CFA first lieutenant

Tammy Thomas and her children James (7) and Millie (5) are inviting the community to visit the station tomorrow to join in their Get Fire Ready event. CFA brigades across the state are holding the events to help communities prepare and plan for the fire season ahead.

Full story page 7

PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

As part of its parish partnership program with the Anglican Diocese of Wangaratta, Anglicare has been based in a dioceseowned building at 39 Ovens Street.

■ Continued page 3 ■

Bubbles artist behind new King Valley sign in Oxley

By ANITA MCPHERSON

The artist who created Bubbles in the landscape, the 6.4-metre-high spiralling sculpture in Oxley designed to appear like floating bubbles, is behind the new King Valley lettered sign installed on the Oxley roundabout.

The large circular sign, indicating visitors have arrived in the King Valley wine region, was designed and manufactured by Alexander Knox.

Tourism North East chief executive officer Bess NolanCook said the concept for a King Valley gateway sign was originally developed as part of the Activating King Valley Master Plan.

But she said the final design (of the sign in the roundabout itself) was one of many artistic installations commissioned as part of the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Enhancement Project, led by Tourism North East in collaboration with the Rural City of Wangaratta, a project which received $8.5 million in funding support from the Victorian government.

Following the installation of Bubbles in the landscape in October last year, the King Valley Tourism Association (KVTA) expressed its frustration over a lack of signage at the site.

Alleged drug trafficker, domestic violence offender is granted bail

An accused drug trafficker, gunman and domestic violence offender has been released from custody on the basis he follows through on his intentions to seek help for drug addiction.

The 43-year-old showed his appreciation to Magistrate Megan Casey after he was granted release from the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court custody dock on Wednesday.

“I’ve never been given this opportunity, I’m really appreciative and I won’t let anyone down,” he said.

He is facing charges of drug trafficking after he was found

with 30g of methylamphetamine, 20g of cannabis and a small quantity of prescription pills in his rental home when it was raided by police on 19 September.

A sawn-off bolt action .22 calibre rifle with 50 rounds of ammunition and a silencer attachment was also found and seized.

The gun was believed to be in the possession of the 43-year-old, who was a prohibited person to own firearms.

The accused’s housemate, a 54-year-old man, was also charged with drug trafficking

following the search, and a 54-year-old woman was cautioned for weed possession.

The court heard the 43-year-old was the only one yet to make admissions.

On Wednesday the court heard he faced two additional charges for possession of an unregistered handgun.

During his bail application, police raised concerns the defendant would continue to offend with drugs to pay off allegedly significant drug debts.

The accused was also facing domestic violence allegations of choking his ex-partner during an altercation in

their Moyhu home in 2023.

It’s alleged he choked her for around 20 to 30 seconds while yelling at her, with multiple children present in the home attempting to intervene.

Magistrate Casey said while the allegations were inherently serious, the man gave compelling reasons to meet bail, and risks of re-offending could be alleviated.

“You are motivated and plan to seek help and I view that as a significant matter,” she said.

Defence counsel Nadia David said her client was eager

to be placed in a rehabilitation centre for his drug addiction.

The court heard he would be bailed to a Benalla address in the meantime, listed as the same address as a 25-year-old Benalla man who was recently convicted of aggravated burglary of a motor vehicle and placed on a 12-month community corrections order.

Magistrate Casey said while the address “wasn’t ideal”, the man’s intention to go into ‘rehab’ outweighed the risk.

She said the expected 1218 month wait on forensic

evidence results would likely go over the expected prison sentence if the defendant was found guilty.

The accused must engage with a bail support program, comply with an intervention order, report at Benalla police station daily and not associate with his alleged co-offenders.

“If you don’t attend appointments, you are likely to find yourself back where you are right now,” Magistrate Casey said.

The man spent 12 days behind bars and will return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 10 November.

Driver dies in fiery crash at truck stop

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A truck driver has died after a fiery crash into two parked trucks at the South Wangaratta Hume Freeway rest area on Wednesday morning.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said it was understood a freight truck lost control before it crashed into the parked trucks in the southbound rest area and subsequently caught fire just before 5am.

The driver and sole occupant of the truck died at the scene.

The occupants of the parked trucks, who were sleeping at the time, were not injured.

Police are working to establish the exact circumstances of the crash.

One lane of the southbound Hume Freeway remained closed at the rest area exit on Wednesday morning as police investigated.

The heavily damaged and burnt-out truck was visible from both sides of the freeway, with its cargo toppled and laying sideways.

One other truck was visibly damaged next to it and another truck was parked some 100 metres away from the crash site in the rest area.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or any information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

There have been 220 lives lost on Victorian roads this year, nine more than this time in 2024.

those most in need in our community

■ From front page Its services have included Loaves and Fishes Christians Caring (LFCC) food relief, which has been delivered over the years in partnership with local faith groups, currently numbering nine. This service will continue to operate in its current form until 1 January, from 10am to 12 noon Monday to Thursday (apart from a closure between October 27 and 31), and can be contacted on 5723 7900. Salvation Army food relief is also available to Wangaratta residents by phoning 88735288.

OAK FM station is open today

Join OAK FM’S Open Day today from 9am to 1pm at their station in Murodch Road, Wangaratta.

Enjoy a live on-air chat about topics that matter to you and stay for a free barbecue lunch, dessert, and a presentation on self-care by local psychologist Neil Barassi. As a volunteer-run organisation, OAK FM offers opportunities for people of any age to come along and see what we do for our local community in providing essential communication and connections.

Fresh snow ahead of end of season

Fresh snowfalls blanketed Falls Creek and Mt Hotham yesterday ahead of the official end to the snow season this Sunday, 5 October.

Both resorts have lifts operating and terrain open for the final weekend, with sunshine forecast.

2 X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS EACH )

Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester said it was hoped emergency relief would continue to be covered beyond January 1 by the church denominations currently involved.

Bishop Bester also said the diocese hoped the Ovens Street building would be occupied soon after Anglicare Victoria’s departure, to provide continued rental income.

BIG RESPONSE: A large emergency services presence remained on the Hume Freeway throughout Wednesday morning.

Moyhu Lions’ Garden Expo on 18 October

The Moyhu Lions Club will hold their annual Garden Expo as part of the monthly community market at the Moyhu Lions Park in Moyhu on Saturday, 18 October from 8am to 12pm.

This year’s event will feature more than 20 garden-themed stalls in addition to the usual market favourites, with plant and seedling sales, information on garden design and permaculture, garden art and craft, Landcare and much more. All are welcome, with stall holder enquiries to moyhu.vic@lions.org.au.

GENEROUS STUDENTS OFFER THEIR TIME

A group of year nine Cathedral College students lent their support to the Wangaratta Night Shelter over the winter months.

Students dedicated their Wednesday afternoons to baking quiches and cookies for those in need, in an initiative generously supported by the college’s parents and friends association. Their efforts not only provided nourishment, but brought comfort and kindness to members of the community experiencing hardship.

Students who lent their generosity and leadership to the program were Lily Radnor, Imogen English, Isabella Colson, Hugo Rodda, Atticus Thompson, Lizzy Healy, Nelitha Abeykoon, Darcy Murray, Jack Carmichael and Easton Fullwood.

Year nine coordinator Eliza Pascall said she was proud of the positive example the students set for their peers.

“Their actions remind us all that many small actions can make a big difference,” she said.

Waiting for God cast in the spotlight

By AILIE WITTING

Tickets for the Wangaratta Play ers production of the hilarious comedy Waiting for God, being performed at the Stage Door Stu dio in November are on sale now, and they are selling fast.

This week’s cast spotlight is on the “children” of the play’s two main characters, Diana and Tom.

Mel Taylor-Ryan and Liam Keane were cast as Sarah Chase and Geoffrey Ballad respectively, and they have given us an insight into their lives, both during the rehearsals and before they were cast.

Mel Taylor-Ryan, a passionate actress, has been performing for most of her life, feeling happiest when she is on stage.

Since 2010, she has been an avid member of Wangaratta Players, performing in more shows than you can count on one hand.

Even before joining Wang Players, Mel remembered watching their shows as a teenager.

Once she had set off to university, Mel kept up her repertoire with determination, performing in many shows, such as Annie and H.M.S. Pinafore - and that was just the tip of the iceberg.

Now, Mel lives and works in Wangaratta as an early childhood music specialist, helping children to understand the fundamentals of music.

With her two grown-up children now out of home, Mel lives with her “third child” Barkley the dog.

Having taken a break from theatre for health reasons, Mel is now back in the swing of it with Wangaratta Players.

“I was shocked but delighted to be given the role of Sarah - especially with the depth of talent in the cast,” Mel said.

“The role of Sarah is quite different to anything I’ve done before and I’m enjoying exploring another side to my acting.”

Mel couldn’t say enough good things about the cast and crew of this devilishly grand play.

“I’m so happy that I didn’t let my nerves stop me from audi-

tioning,” Mel said.

“I am loving working with such a great and talented cast and crew.”

The start of 2025 brought a new actor to join Wangaratta Players.

Geoffrey Ballard in Waiting for God is Liam Keane’s third role for Wangaratta Players, the first two being Sherlock Holmes in Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, and Ken in Rumours.

Liam has lived in Wangaratta with his parents almost his entire life, acting in nearly every Galen Catholic College production during his time there, before heading to university in Melbourne.

“I had heard of the Wangaratta Players in the past, but I didn’t join

because I wasn’t sure if acting was what I wanted to do,” Liam said.

“Studying film and television at university made me realise how much I missed being on the stage.”

Liam joined Wangaratta Players after coming back to town and auditioning for Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery.

“I thought, why not just go for it this time?” he said.

“Worst case scenario I don’t get it, but at least I can say I tried.

“My favourite part about being in this production is the on-stage chemistry all the actors have with each other.”

What Liam says rings true - the cast of Waiting for God appearing to work as one unit when on stage - bouncing off each other and only occasionally dropping character, generally from an outburst of laughter.

The stage chemistry between Liam and his stage father, Shane Douthie – who plays Tom Ballard –is wonderful.

“I was excited about being cast, but also anxious about having to portray this comedic yet pitiful man,” Liam said.

Wangaratta Players will present Michael Aitkens play Waiting for God at the Stage Door Studio in Evans Street, Wangaratta from Friday, 7 November to Sunday, 23 November, with tickets available at trybooking.com/ DDWJE.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

CENTRE STAGE: Mel Taylor-Ryan plays Sarah Chase, and Liam Keane plays Geoffrey Ballard in the Wangaratta Players latest production, Waiting for God.

PHOTO: Ailie Witting

Victoria Police members have been continuing to search Mount Buffalo National Park as part of ongoing efforts to locate armed fugitive Desmond Freeman.

Freeman was was last seen disappearing into bushland behind his Rayner Track property on the outskirts of Porepunkah after allegedly shooting and killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart on 26 August.

A reward of up to $1 million remains for information leading to Freeman’s arrest. Recent days searches have involved nearly 100 addi-

tional officers being brought up from the Public Order Response Team who are conducting an extra sweep of the area.

Specialist search dogs from Queensland Police have also been deployed to scour the area.

It follows intensive searches conducted by tactical police over the last several weeks.

The Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed to the public at the request of Victoria Police.

This decision is being constantly assessed and police will advise as soon as the park can re-open.

Victoria Police, including its tactical police, continues to maintain a significant presence in the Porepunkah area.

“We are committed to using every available resource

and the necessary skills required to find Freeman,” a police spokesperson said.

Anyone who sees Freeman should phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.

By SIMONE KERWIN

Just a week remains until the 159th annual Wangaratta Show.

The treasured local event will be held on Friday, 10 October and Saturday, 11 October, and organisers promise a packed schedule of events highlighting the best of rural and regional life.

There will be quality entertainment at the showgrounds, alongside pavilion exhibits, the livestock arena, rides and sideshow alley, and those traditional, longed-for showtime treats.

Among the entertainment on the Friday will be heartstopping aerial motorbike stunts provided by the SINCS FMX team, followed by the always-anticipated WINSEC fireworks display.

The food court at the show offers a wide range of food trucks, while kids and animal lovers will enjoy both the Animals of Oz reptile display and the beloved animal nursery.

The horse competition program runs on the Friday, with Saturday’s program featuring the Working Equitation events, showcasing skill, style and horsemanship.

Also on Saturday, the livestock arenas will have a full line-up of sheep, cattle and poultry.

Other features of the show include live music from the Daine Runnalls Trio, and the many creative delights of the craft pavilion.

There is bound to be something for everyone across the two days of the event, which draws thousands of people to the showgrounds each year.

Puppet show Dinkum Dinosaurs will entertain crowds across the two days of the show, combining ventriloquism, comedy and dinosaur puppets in a funfilled, interactive experience which includes a dinosaur dance party.

Do not approach him.

Suspicious behaviour should be reported to Crime Stoppers Victoria via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

For the most current

advice and updates relating to this search, visit https:// www.police.vic.gov.au/ porepunkah-shooting-andsearch-desmond-freemanfilby

Delivery driver didn’t

want bosses in trouble, so he

lied to police

A former Wangaratta food delivery driver lied to police and attempted a cover up after crashing a delivery car into a parked ute and fleeing from the scene, a court has heard.

The Wangaratta man faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week to plead guilty to charges related to the bizarre incident.

The court heard on 14 August last year around 8pm the man crashed a blue Toyota Camry delivery car into a parked ute on Hallett Crescent.

The owner of the ute heard the crash from his home and found the rear driver’s side panel of his vehicle damaged and debris of another car scattered on the ground.

The accused stopped and went back to the scene to pick up his car’s debris, but he fled when the victim began to confront him about the incident.

Police investigated the crash and on 18 August identified the damaged blue Camry owned by a local restaurant at its place of business.

The restaurant owners said the accused was driving the vehicle at the time.

During a police interview, the Wangaratta man said he wasn’t involved in the crash, had never worked as a delivery driver for the restaurant and he wasn’t at the scene.

In court representing himself, the man said he lied to police because he didn’t want to get the restaurant owners in trouble, as they were allegedly paying him “under the table”.

“I’m here to say I did it and to make amends,” he said.

The accused said he no longer worked as a delivery driver for the restaurant.

“I have two jobs now and I pay tax for both of them,” he said.

Magistrate Megan Casey placed the man on a sixmonth good behaviour bond without conviction.

“If you have an accident in the future make sure you stop and if you can’t ID them, go to the police station,” she said.

Accused Paradise Falls vandals to face court at later date

Two Melbourne men accused of vandalising the rockface at Cheshunt’s Paradise Falls earlier this year will wait at least another month to learn their fate.

The 24-year-old Rosebud man

and 25-year-old Hastings man were set to face court on Monday with their matters adjourned to 27 October at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court.

Whitfield police charged both

men with criminal damage and charges against the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 after a largescale graffiti tag approximately 10 metres wide and two metres high was found on the base of the

culturally significant site on 12 May. The investigation involved specialist graffiti analysts from the Victoria Police Transit Divisional Response Unit.

The Bushwackers are back and ready to raise the roof

Fresh off celebrating an incredible 53 years on the road, Australia’s beloved folk-rock legends are bringing their high-energy, toe-tapping show to the Da Vinci Social Club on Sunday, 19 October.

With the same infectious spirit, they had in the ‘70s, The Bushwackers now blend their seasoned showmanship with a new generation of talent – including rising star Rory Phillips (just 18 years old).

“We’ve played in Wangaratta many times over the years, and it has al-

ways been a joy,” said guitarist Roger Corbett.

“This time we’re celebrating Seniors Week at the Da Vinci Social Club, which is appropriate as the Bushwackers are a unique blend of older and younger members.”

This year’s lineup features the brilliant Anthony O’Neill on the fiddle and banjo who first joined the Bushwackers in the 80s as a teenager himself, and Rory Phillips who is still a teenager at 18 years old. All the members share a love of

Have your say

the music with fiery Celtic instrumentals, timeless bush ballads, and original classics drawn from the band’s 25 acclaimed studio albums.

Expect a heartwarming finale with the iconic anthem ‘I Am Australian’, co-written by lead singer Dobe Newton.

“Hearing the crowd sing that back to us… it never gets old,” Dobe said.

It’s a two-hour show for the whole family – packed with energy, stories, and songs that celebrate the Aussie spirit.

Don’t miss it! Bring your friends, grab a drink, and join us for great music and good times.

The Bushwackers perform at the Da Vinci Social Club on Sunday, 19 October 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

Entry: members $25, non-members $30 including a great afternoon tea.

Doors open at 12.45pm.

Bookings preferred for seating and catering purposes, phone 0409 307 606 or email dvsc.wang@gmail. com.

The Victorian Government is setting new rules for how renewable energy projects engage with local communities and deliver lasting economic and social benefits.

This is part of new arrangements that will govern how projects access the state’s transmission network. We’re inviting feedback to help ensure the new engagement guidelines include what’s important for your community.

AUSSIE FOLK LEGENDS: Roger Corbett (left) and Cobe Newton with next generation Bushwacker Rory Phillips.

Brigades to help communities prepare for fire season ahead

GET FIRE READY EVENTS IN THE LOCAL AREA INCLUDE:

• Friday, 3 October, 10am to noon –CFA District 23 HQ in Ely Street

• Saturday, 4 October, 9am to 5pm

– South Wangaratta Fire Station

• Saturday, 4 October, 11am to 2pm

– Laceby West Fire Station

• Saturday, 4 October, 9am to 3pm, Thoona Fire Station

• Sunday, 5 October, 11am to 2pm –Wangaratta North Fire Station

• Sunday, 5 October, 10am to 1pm

– Bowmans-Murmungee Fire Station

• Sunday, 5 October, 10am to noon, Lurg Fire Station

• Sunday, 12 October, 9am to 12pm, Killawarra Fire Station

• Saturday, 18 October, 9am to 12 noon, Eldorado CFA at Gunhouse Park

• Monday, 27 October, 6pm to 8pm, Bowser Fire Station

GETTING PREPARED: South Wangaratta CFA first lieutenant Tammy Thomas is hoping the community

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

Public preparations for an expected challenging fire season will be brought into focus this weekend with CFA Get Fire Ready events to be held by many brigades throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan

said the Get Fire Ready initiative is about making sure people understand their fire risk, have a fire plan and know where to get emergency information from.

“Preparedness saves lives," he said.

“By getting fire ready now, communities can reduce their risk and respond quickly if fire threatens.

“Clearing gutters, mowing lawns, trimming branches, knowing where you’ll go if a fire breaks out and setting a watch zone in the VicEmergency app can make a real difference in an emergency.

“Our most recent bushfire survey shows that an alarming number of Victorians living in high-risk bushfire prone areas do not perceive bushfire to be a threat (story page 17).

“Many still believe leaving early is not the best option, and would instead stay and protect their property, or wait until they feel threatened or receive advice.

“Get Fire Ready is just that – getting communities ready for fire season, knowing what their risks are and how they can prepare.”

bers to attend their event at the fire station on the corner of Shanley Street and Warby Range Road tomorrow.

“We’ll have members at the station from 9am to 5pm, but most of our activities will be focused from noon to 2pm,” brigade first lieutenant Tammy Thomas said.

“A lot of our current 40 active firefighters will be present to help share information to community members to help prepare for the fire season ahead.

“People will be able to do fire plans and take them home with them, while also enjoying a barbecue lunch.

“We’ll also have a lot of activities for children to enjoy as part of supporting the whole family to be prepared.”

Ms Thomas, who has been a brigade member for almost eight years, said there were already early signs of a challenging fire season ahead.

“In our area of South Wangaratta and the Warby Range we’re already seeing grass drying out and curing,” she said.

“We’re preparing to see more grass fires this season...potentially from lightening strikes or farm machinery.”

out in force tomorrow for the brigade’s Get Fire Ready event.

South Wangaratta CFA members are encouraging community mem-

With a forecast of 28 degrees this Sunday, Ms Thomas said early warm weather and other seasonal conditions had the summer shaping up like the challenging 2019/2020 fire season.

comes

PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

Anglicare funding cut a brutal betrayal

The heartless and short-sighted halt to funding for Anglicare operations in Wangaratta is a betrayal by the Labor federal government.

At a time when the Labor party’s own treasurer admits it is tough going for many in our society, especially medium to low income workers, those on social security payments, the homeless and less advantage, it is heartless for a so-called socially conscious political party to make such a savage cut in support.

It flies in the face of the countless times during the more recent federal election when ALP politicians and supporters spruiked the ‘caring for all’ mantra that an incoming government would be there as a port of last resort for those needing a hand.

And Wangaratta was not the only community targeted by these cuts to emergency relief centres, many operated by church and community groups with generous support from local communities and volunteers.

Emergency relief centres across Victoria are facing the same financial crisis as the federal government plans to slash their funding.

With the Prime Minister travelling the length and breadth of Australia and overseas splashing billion-dollar pledges left, right and centre on defence, education, health, infrastructure, steelworks bailouts and more, surely the few million in Victoria for such emergency relief centres could be found.

It’s been proven in the past that every dollar funded to Loaves and Fishes by governments for instance is returned multiple times by the donations they are able to attract from local businesses and communities.

Hopefully, pressure, if not common sense, will see a change of mind by the Labor government.

Facebook users this week commented on an upcoming trivia night in Peechelba.

 Peechelba Memorial Hall: Thanks for the amazing article Wangaratta Chronicle!!! We can’t wait to see everyone at our Trivia Night - https://facebook.com/events/s/trivianight/1290781982728362/

Facebook users this week also commented on council awarding the contract to

upgrade Swan Street to a local business.

 Andrew Meloury: Name the companies that fix our roads, bet they do a better job

 Roger Neate: Hope that includes the walking track under the Swan street bridge which is totally inaccessible 90% of the time. A pedestrian crossing would give safe access for all who use the hospital/specialist in that area and the school children who cross there, take your

Morning visitor could be linked to backyard mystery

In regards to the story in the Wangaratta Chronicle, Monday, 29 September, “Jim baffled by backyard mystery”, relating to birds possibly responsible for thefts of the funnel of a rain gauge.

All last week something was determined to dig deeply and into a ground space 2” x 3” surrounded by bricks etc.

Every morning I filled it in until last Saturday morning when I saw a Blackbird with a bright yellow beak standing alone on paving near this hole.

He looked around as though he owned the backyard!

So I put a garden pot on top of the hole.

So far so good.

Problem solved.

Good luck Jim.

Marion Evans, Wangaratta

More investment needed for animal desexing

I went to the Wangaratta council meeting on Tuesday and asked about funding vouchers for desexing domestic cats and dogs and was told there were none issued by council.

I hope council will try and get some for all those cats and dogs yet to be desexed.

Farmers say they are experiencing a significant feral cat problem, but if more farmers desexed their own cats it would help reduce the problem.

Yes, many cats are dumped in the bush by owners who won’t or can’t afford to desex them.

It is an absolute disgrace the number of cats and kittens, dogs and puppies that are euthanised each year in Victoria and Australia and it’s all because of humans.

Council has given millions for the rail trail and township enhancements but could you imagine the number of cats and dogs that could be desexed with that, or even some of that money?

It seems animals are the forgotten ones and they shouldn’t be.

It is just so sad.

Maree Parkinson, Wangaratta

Council lack of vision and action on animal welfare

I was at the recent Wangaratta council meeting where the topic of feral cats was discussed in a manner that I found disheartening.

life into your own hands trying to cross Swan Street first and last time of the day.

Facebook users this week also commented on a new Border based triathlon group branching out in the North East region by making the sport affordable and inclusive for all ages  Al Winters: Amazing work Border Triathlon Squad!

Facebook users this

week also commented on police catching a high number of impaired and speeding drivers across the Wangaratta region over the AFL Grand Final long weekend.

 Leslie Matthews: Good Facebook users this week also commented on local roads scoring low on a new road rating system.

 Andrew Meloury: Gee wouldn’t have known without the new rating system Have your say

When questioned about the council’s definition of feral cats and the number of animals euthanised the council was unable to provide a clear answer.

Additionally, our proposal - for more affordable desexing and microchipping options - was rejected due to lack of government funding.

The decision is particularly concerning given the council collects registration fees for dogs and cats, yet fails to allocate these funds towards supporting local animal welfare initiatives.

The council’s decision to transport animals to the Albury pound rather than exploring alternative solutions was, at the time, met with anger from those in attendance at the meeting.

Unfortunately, the Wangaratta council

station OAK FM 101.3. Wangaratta wildlife expert Ian Davidson, who contributes with Chris Tzaros in the Chronicle’s weekly North East Naturally column, said the plovers’ behaviour was typical around urban areas because their natural nesting areas are relatively bare areas. He said the likelihood of breeding success is very low in these situations. Plovers are a protected species and are very protective, like Magpies, when they have eggs. It is illegal to interfere with these birds or their nests without a permit, and the public is advised to steer clear of them.

BEWARE: A plover guards its nest in Murdoch Road.

remained unresponsive to our suggestions, instead maintaining an inflexible stance.

Barbara Webster, Wangaratta

Julie Dart sent this photo in of a pair of plovers protecting their eggs on the busy intersection at Murdoch Road in front of community radio

PHOTO: Julie Dart

Facebook users this week continued to comment on the new sign being installed in the centre of the Oxley roundabout indicting visitors have arrived in the King Valley region.

 Alexander Knox: Jaye Miller the signs text spacing is orientated towards the approach roads. Balanced so they are are not to close to the next block of text.

 Jaye Miller: Alexander Knox yes understand but it looks really unbalanced when driving towards it. Please consider it from all exits

 David Hogg: Winner of the most distractions at a roundabout award goes to ...

 John Raoss: Oʻwhat is more important is raising your Shire rates to pay this crap.

 Viviane King: Looks great!

 Paul Crabb: How much did it cost ?

 Gazza Davern: All this money for a bottle of plonk .???

 Andrew Montgomery: Whoever approved this should resign and take the team that worked on the project with them. Complete waste of taxpayers money. Can’t maintain the grass or the entire intersection or have adequate signage directing visitors. Roads leading up the valley are abysmal and make return

Have your say

travellers second guess their choice. Necessity before accessories

 Michelle Leanne Brown: Nice sign, now follow the crappy road and watch out for pot holes.

 Nathan Davern: It’s funny that they’ve got the King valley when that sign is not in the King valley It should have Oxley written on it King valley is about half an hour 45 minutes down the road they worried about fancy signs and wasting money there’s no point having good signs and broken roads

 Greg Keane: Who is paying for this???

 Beth McMillan: Absolutely unnecessary waste of money

 Roger Neate: Beth McMillan yes Beth I agree  Robert Rosicka: Roger Neate Since We’ve been back from holidays I’ve noticed there has been a lot of money spent on signage throughout the Shire . I’ve also noticed the roads are worse for potholes and wear though so maybe the money would be better spent on roads .

 Roger Neate: Robert Rosicka yes mate  Lisa Delahunty Peach: What an eyesore…….the money should have been used making that road safer!!!!!

Community invited to connect, learn and protect

The community is invited to a “Conservation IS Caring for Country” event on Sunday, 26 October, hosted by Swamps, Rivers & Ranges and supported by the Victorian government through the Victorian Landcare Grants Program.

Held from 2pm - 4pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street, this event will explore the powerful synergy between Indigenous traditional knowledge and modern conservation techniques, with a special focus on the riparian zones, floodplains, and wetlands that shape local landscape.

Two passionate speakers, Jiarra Atkinson and Sophie Enders, will lead the discussion.

Jiarra, an expert in Aboriginal cultural heritage education, will share insights into species of cultural significance to the Bangarang people, highlighting the deep spiritual and ecological connections between Country and community.

Sophie, from Swamps, Rivers & Ranges, will offer practical conservation tips and strategies to help protect these vital species and ecosystems.

Weather permitting, the event will include a guided walk through Big Kaluna Park, offering participants a chance to admire the stunning King River and experience firsthand the beauty and importance of our local waterways.

The walk will be followed by a relaxing afternoon tea back at The Centre, providing time for reflection and connection.

Bookings are appreciated for catering purposes and can be made via TryBooking or by emailing swampsriversranges@gmail.com.

This event is a wonderful opportunity for locals to deepen their understanding of Country, learn how to care for it, and celebrate the wisdom of Indigenous custodianship.

Hip hop artist headlines Positive Minds Day

ARIA Award-winning hip hop artist JK-47 was a special guest at Wangaratta High School’s recent Positive Minds Day.

Held in the final week of term, the day was planned for the oval but moved indoors due to rain, creating a great vibe with basketball, a barbecue and hip hop

JK47 PERFORMS FOR STUDENTS

combining to entertain students.

Students from VCE-Vocational Major, supported by Alice Reynolds and Sal Kimber, organised activities including a barbecue fundraiser for the RUOK? campaign.

School nurse Geraldine Meyer shared health information about vaping and smoking, while students displayed positive mental health posters.

The day featured a lively staff versus student basketball game, MCed by Harry Hildebrand, followed by the performance by First Nations artist JK-47.

He joined Aunty Narelle

Urquhart for a yarning circle, before performing an uplifting set which had students on their feet.

The day proved a memorable celebration of wellbeing, positivity and connection, and it’s hoped it will become an annual September tradition.

CONCERT: STUDENTS TUNE IN TO ARIA

PHOTOS: KEV McGENNAN

WELCOME VISITOR: Rapper JK47 with Wangaratta High School students Lillian Oats-Mason, Ashley Course and Daizy Thomson during his visit for Positive Minds Day.

An evening with the MSO

North East music lovers are in for a treat with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) heading north next week for visits to Wangaratta and Shepparton.

There will be performances on Wednesday, 8 October at 7:30pm at Riverlinks Eastbank, Shepparton (tickets available via Riverlinks Venues) and the next day, Thursday, 9 October at 7:30pm at Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre (tickets available via WPACC).

Join the MSO and conductor Leonard Weiss for an unforgettable evening filled with timeless masterpieces from Glinka, Saint-Saëns and Brahms.

The Overture to Glinka’s opera Ruslan and Lyudmila is the epitome of orchestral curtain-

raisers, with a furiously fast and infectious opening and rollicking good fun throughout.

Tair Khisambeev will showcase the expressive virtuosity of Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No.3, filled with soaring melodies and dazzling passages.

The opening of Brahms’ First Symphony is astonishing – it seems to have already been playing when we, the audience, intrude upon its crashing chords.

This dramatic entrance sets the stage for a symphony filled with buttery lyricism and boisterous momentum, with its signature sound being thoroughly Brahms’.

The concerts will be complemented by two sessions for schools with the theme Remarkable Romantics, the first at

10:30am, Riverlinks Eastbank, Shepparton on Thursday, 9 October (tickets via Riverlinks Venues) and the next on Friday, 10 October at 10am at WPACC (tickets via WPACC).

The MSO for Schools: Remarkable Romantics program will include an exploration of Brahms’ First Symphony and the Overture to Glinka’s opera, Ruslan and Lyudmila.

In this interactive concert led by conductor Leonard Weiss and presenter Amberley Bremner, students will explore these thrilling works through active participation and listening whilst discovering the sights and sounds of the orchestra.

Check the venue websites for more information and to book your place.

Council adopts policy to address unsafe customer behaviour

By JORDAN DUURSMA

Rural City of Wangaratta councillors have adopted a new policy to help its hundreds of staff manage unreasonable or unsafe customer behaviour.

The Unreasonable Conduct Policy endorsed at last week’s council meeting seeks to ensure the safety and wellbeing of staff and those who work with council and the broader community, and to support the appropriate and proportionate deployment of council resources for the benefit of the community as a whole.

The policy outlines clear definitions of unacceptable conduct including unreasonable persistence, excessive demands, lack of cooperation, unreasonable arguments, and unsafe behaviours such as aggression or threats.

It establishes a risk-based process for identifying, recording, and responding to incidents, with a strong emphasis on proportionality, human rights, and regular review of any restrictive measures.

The policy empowers staff to cease unsafe interactions and escalate incidents to management, who may im-

plement communication restrictions or temporary exclusions from council facilities as a last resort.

It also outlines how an unreasonable conduct assessment and appropriate control measures should be determined.

Council’s CEO is responsible for decisions regarding exclusion or suspension, and the policy ensures that such measures are regularly reviewed and remain fair and compliant with relevant legislation.

Council’s people and culture team members and other business areas most likely to be impacted by

unreasonable conduct - including front line customer service - were consulted and the policy has also undergone independent review by council’s legal advisors.

This item was moved by Councillor Ashlee Fitzpatrick and seconded by Councillor Harry Bussell.

Cr Bussell said while this is a very necessary policy, it saddens him that it is needed.

“Unfortunately we do need it, but I hope that we never have to use it,” he said.

Mayor Irene Grant agreed with Cr Bussell.

“I’ve been in local government for a very long time and I’ve seen the pressure on councillors and council officers, and people’s expectations can be unreasonable and it puts an enormous amount of pressure, particularly when there seems to be a loss of understanding and respect in that process,” she said.

“I hope this policy supports council in this work and gives people a pause to think that if they’re not happy with something, there is another way to approach the way they’re doing business with council.”

MSO MAGIC: Join the MSO for concerts in Shepparton on 8 October and Wangaratta on 9 October and MSO for Schools sessions at both venues. PHOTO: Mark Gambino

Enjoy wineries with friends in the King Valley

TWO wineries located in the heart of the King Valley will come together once again to present Wine with Neighbours and Friends on Saturday, 11 October.

It is the third time La Cantina King Valley and Red Feet Wines have collaborated for the event, offering visitors the chance to visit their cellar doors - only a short distance apart - and sample selected wines matched to delicious bites of food.

“We thought it would be a good showcase of our relationship as neighbours and friends and we wanted to share this with our customers - new and old,” said La Cantina King Valley’s Linda Newton.

“We are two small, fam-

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

ily owned and operated businesses who grow and make our wines on site, and often assist each other as friends, neighbours and colleagues.”

There are some interesting wines to sample on this year’s menu, with Red Feet Wines offering a sparkling chardonnay, Whitlands chardonnay and sangiovese, while La Cantina King Valley will present their sparkling sangiovese con fondo, albarino and nebbiolo.

Each of the wines has been matched with a specially crafted morsel of food designed to highlight the wine’s

unique flavour and character.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy live music at each venue, with Keepsake (Leticia Box Corsini and Mikayla Rumberlow) performing at La Cantina, and Mayfair Lane performing at Red Feet.

The wineries are also offering people who purchase tickets prior to Sunday, 5 October, the chance to win a six pack of the wines featured in this year’s event.

Wine with Neighbours and Friends will be held on Saturday, 11 October from 11am to 4pm and tickets are $50 (which provides access to both venues) available at lacantinakingvalley.com.au/ Events or redfeet.com.au/ events.

Be a heart starter this Shocktober

launched its annual Shocktober cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills and sign up to be a

aims to increase cardiac arrest

David Anderson said it is essential to know CPR, how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and where your closest defibrillator is located.

“Shocktober is about giving more Victorians who suffer a cardiac arrest a better chance of returning to their loved ones,” he said.

“We are urging the community to refresh their knowledge about CPR and how to use a defibrillator.

“For every minute CPR is delayed, survival decreases by 10 per cent.

often without symptoms.

“Our message is simple – you don’t need to be a paramedic to save a life, just remember to Call (Triple Zero 000), Push (perform CPR) and Shock (use an AED).”

In regional Victoria, cardiac arrest survival rates are significantly boosted by the swift action of bystanders who use publicly accessible AEDs.

Associate Professor Anderson also encouraged the community to sign up to be a GoodSAM Responder.

cardiac arrest survival rate and Ambulance Victoria medical

“Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere, at any age, health or fitness level, and

“GoodSAM is a free mobile app that connects patients in cardiac arrest with a nearby volunteer who is willing to begin handsonly CPR while paramedics are on their way,” he said.

Let your savings do the work and stay on track

A Wangaratta mother discovered the secret of saving was keeping it simple

With everyday costs rising, from groceries to energy bills, many Australians are feeling stretched. In times like these, financial wellbeing becomes even more important. It is not just about building a balance; it is about feeling calm, confident, and in control.

For Jess, a 35-year-old nurse from Myrtleford, that sense of security began with one small shift: letting her savings grow quietly in the background.

She opened a highinterest savings account and set up an automatic $20 transfer each payday.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP:

Deciding to start a saving plan on a regular basis can be a life-changing decision.

There were no decisions to make and no stress, just steady, hands-off progress.

The account offered flexibility and good interest, so even if she needed to dip into it occasionally, she stayed on track.

She built up an emergency fund and felt proud of her progress.Then her car broke down, and one unexpected expense wiped out months of effort.

After a brief moment of disappointment, Jess reminded herself why she started. That money was there when she needed it. She reset her plan, topped up her savings with her next overtime payment, and kept going. Jess found success through consistency rather than perfection. Jess’s savings grew quietly in the background, she celebrated small wins, saving $100, staying on track for three months, and avoiding credit card debt during holidays.

At Hume Bank, we believe every small step counts. Saving regularly, even a little, is a powerful move toward becoming your own financial hero.

Daniel WHITEHOUSE

VALLEY FLAVOUR: The families behind La Cantina King Valley and Red Feet Wines look forward to showcasing their range with visitors as part of Wine with Neighbours and Friends.

Vocal Dimension anniversary concerts

Choir Vocal Dimension will celebrate its 40th anniversary with two concerts this weekend, at the Wangaratta Uniting Church Hall on Saturday, 4 October, and the Benalla Uniting Church on Sunday, 5 October, starting at 3pm.

Members have chosen favourite classic and modern works to sing, by composers such as Fauré, Vaughan Williams, Gershwin, Jenkins and more.

Admission is $20 via cash or EFTPOS at the door (under-18s free) and includes a complimentary afternoon tea immediately after each concert.

Friends of the library book sale

The Friends of Wangaratta Library are holding a book sale on Saturday, 4 October from 9.30am to 12noon at Wangaratta Library.

There will be a large range of second-hand adult fiction, nonfiction and children’s books to choose from and all money raised will assist the library in providing programming and events.

G’Day Glenrowan Market Day on Saturday

The G’Day Glenrowan Market Day will be held on Saturday, 4 October from 9am to 1pm at the Lions Park in Gladstone Street, Glenrowan.

The community-focused event celebrates Glenrowan’s creative spirit with over 60 market stalls featuring handmade items, locally baked goods, fresh produce, unique gifts, plants and more.

There will also be live music, street performers and free entry to the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub, plus refreshments including a fundraising barbecue hosted by the Glenrowan Warby Ranges Lions Club.

REALISTIC FOCUS: CATHIE WALLER IS DRAWN TO REALISM; HER COLLECTION INCLUDING STUNNING MONOCHROMATIC AND COLOUR PORTRAITS, AS WELL AS LANDSCAPE, STILL LIFE AND BOTANICAL WORKS, CREATED IN PANPASTEL.

PHOTO: ANITA MCPHERSON

Artist’s approach to realism in soft focus

A solo exhibition by resident artist Cathie Waller has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in Wangaratta.

Cathie joined the gallery in April this year and she looks forward to sharing a diverse collection of her beautiful works for the first time, created using PanPastels.

The artist said in her youth she painted in oils and loved their richness and texture, but it wasn’t until she had raised a family, endured serious illness and found herself in retirement, that there was time for her love for creating art to be reignited.

“After a few years I was feeling

www.corcoranparker.com.au

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

well enough to think about what I would do with my time,” Cathie said.

“This was when I remembered a day years earlier viewing a pastel painting in a large window in Beechworth.

“I knew that oils would not be good for my health so decided to try pastels…discovering an Australian artist using PanPastels on YouTube.

“I bought a set of landscape col-

ours and fell in love with them immediately - the tactile nature of PanPastels and their ability to blend and create rich textures resonated with me as much as oils did years earlier.”

Cathie says she is inspired by a variety of subjects, including still life, botanicals, portraits of both people and animals, landscapes and seascapes.

She said she is also drawn to beauty in nature whether it be colourful flowers, foliage and the varied poses of birds.

This exhibition also includes two monochromatic portraits of people whose faces captivated her,

and both are strong examples of her expertise in realism.

“My focus has always been on realism or hyperrealism; my brain will not allow me to work any other way,” Cathie said.

“Some would say it’s a curse but for me it’s what I love.”

See Realism in Soft Focus at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street on on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm, and on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 4pm until October 13.

An opening celebration will be held this Saturday, 4 October from 12pm to 2pm, with all welcome.

Enjoy pop-up op-shop on this Sunday

The next free pop-up community op-shop will be held at Wangaratta’s Seventh Day Adventist Church in Phillipson Street this Sunday.

Running from 10am to 2pm, it will be the fourth such event hosted by the SDA church to assist locals impacted by cost-of-living pressures, as well as providing a social gathering, and a way for people to support fellow residents.

All items on display are free, and everyone is welcome, with a delicious morning tea also available on the day.

“We’ve had over 1000 people attend across the three op-shops we’ve held so far,” organiser Jan Mitchell said.

“It’s a great opportunity to help

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

each other - and keeping items out of landfill is a big plus too.

“We will probably have enough to fill 40 tables this time, so we’re asking for a good crowd.

“This is the community helping the community, with people donating and coming to collect whatever they can use.”

Organisers welcome donations of new or good condition secondhand clothing, linen, toys, books and kitchenware from the community (large furniture items cannot be accepted).

“A lot of people come and stay

for half an hour, and some for the whole time, so it’s a great social event as well, as the food and cuppas roll out; it’s a little outing for people,” Jan said.

The op-shop concept was born of Jan and husband Dale’s involvement in distributing generous community donations to those in need during the 2019-’20 bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2022 floods which affected Rochester and Echuca.

Jan said she could “hardly believe what’s happened” in terms of the strong community support for the initiative, with the op-shops offering considerable help to local residents, and leftover items then donated to local groups such as Boys to the Bush, Albury-Wodonga

161 Vincent Road, Wangaratta (03) 5722 2253 northeastfurniture.com.au New season outdoor furniture range special for the month of October

Multiple Birth Association, the Beautiful You program, and the Share the Dignity initiative.

This Sunday’s pop-up op-shop will feature a large range of children’s and babies’ clothing, as well as a host of other quality items including household kitchenware and glassware.

“We even have a van full of donations coming from Melbourne,” Jan said.

“This is a way to help people ensure their dollars can stretch far enough; one of the most important things we do is feed our families, and for some people at the moment, that’s tough to do.

“With the way the world is, there are a lot of things we can’t do, but this is something we can do.”

Wangaratta Festival of Dance competition

The Wangaratta Festival of Dance celebrates young dancers from across the region and beyond as they take centre stage to perform and compete, and a mini competition will be held this weekend.

Hundreds of competitors will perform different genres of dance styles including classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary hip hop, musical theatre, demi character and improvisation. Entry to watch the performances is free, with competition at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday from 9am to 9.30pm, and on Sunday from 9am to 3.30pm.

Wangaratta community market Sunday

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.

Wangaratta Historical Society open weekends

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.

FEELING OF COMMUNITY: Sheree Wilson, Juliana Banken, Carolyn Stiles, Jan Mitchell and Mary Townsend with some of the delicious morning tea that was on offer at the free op-shop held in August.

PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

SACRED KINGFISHER – ANOTHER WARM SEASON VISITOR TO AREA

By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS

As spring settles in the Sacred Kingfisher returns to our region.

It is a visually striking bird heard and seen throughout our warmer months, where it comes to breed and fledge young before returning to northern Australia and surrounding islands including PNG and Borneo.

Their loud “ek ek ek ek” call is repeated continuously throughout breeding season and when excited they also give a “kee kee kee” and a series of chirring, scolding notes when alarmed.

Locally they inhabit woodlands and tall open eucalypt forest.

The Sacred Kingfisher is a medium sized kingfisher with a turquoise back, turquoise blue rump and tail, buff-white underparts and a broad cream collar.

There is a broad black eye stripe extending from bill to nape of neck.

Both sexes are similar, although the female is generally lighter with duller upper parts.

Young birds appear like the female but have rusty-brown edging to feathers on the collar and underparts, and buff edges on the wing coverts.

Whilst often seen near waterways Sacred Kingfishers seldom eat fish, instead, they mostly forage

for insects, but they will also eat a wide variety of other small animals, including frogs and lizards.

These food items are commonly taken on the ground, with the kingfisher swiftly swooping or pouncing down from a branch or some other elevated perch onto the prey, sometimes taking it without landing.

The food is then usually brought back to the perch, where it is eaten.

For most of the year Sacred Kingfishers are solitary, pairing only for the breeding season.

Usually, two clutches are laid in a season and both sexes excavate the nest, which is normally either a burrow in a river bank or in a tree hollow.

The nest chamber is unlined and can be up to 20m above the ground in a towering red gum or box tree.

Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.

So, whilst we often see Sacred Kingfishers along our waterways in the warmer months, it’s not the water they seek but rather the large hollow bearing trees for nesting and the tree lined corridors for foraging amongst.

Once the cooler nights arrive in March, they will start their long northern flight along the edge of the Great Dividing Range to their winter home in the tropics.

ON THE HUNT: Sacred Kingfisher looking for prey.

PHOTO Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

Nearly half of Victorians lack a bushfire plan: CFA

Ahead of the looming fire season, a recent CFA survey revealed that 40 per cent of Victorians living in bushfireprone areas do not have a bushfire plan in place to save their family.

One in five people in these areas do not believe “leaving early” in a fire emergency is the best way to safeguard their loved ones, and 16 per cent would stay to protect their property.

CFA’s annual post-season bushfire community survey has been conducted every year since 2009 to understand the attitudes, behaviours, and preparedness of householders living in bushfire risk locations in Victoria.

Despite the recent AFAC Spring Seasonal Bushfire Outlook indicating increased fire risk across several drought-affected parts of the state, the survey found out of the 611 people interviewed, 24 per cent did not feel adequately prepared around their home.

Over the last two years, the survey shows the perception of a bushfire being a threat to Victorians and their property has declined from very large to small, with 50 per cent of people not showing concern and nearly 40 per cent are not alarmed enough to warrant direct interaction with CFA.

Worryingly, those least concerned and less likely to be prepared were located just 500 metres to one kilometre from bushland.

“Residents living in high fire-risk areas must take their preparation more seriously.

DO YOUR PART:

As the weather warms up, CFA are encouraging Victorians in bushfire-prone areas to take be proactive this bushfire season.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan expressed his concerns about the distressing statistics, warning Victorians that now is not the time to be complacent with an earlier and more active fire season predicted.

“It is never too early to prepare,” Jason said.

“Don’t gamble with your safety this season.

“Take a moment to sit down with your household and make a plan so everyone knows what they need to do and where they need to go if a fire threatens your local area.

“It’s easy to panic and make poor decisions if you’re not prepared, and the last thing you want in an emergency is to become trapped.

“Leaving early is your greatest form of protection.”

A further 31 per cent of

respondents would delay leaving until threatened by a bushfire, waiting for the danger to increase or for instructions from emergency services.

“It is vital you understand the risks of your residential area and where you are travelling this summer,” Jason said.

“The best way to do this is to download the VicEmergency App and set your watch zones to your locations so you are alerted to warnings wherever you are.

“Don’t wait for an official

warning before you take action to protect your family.

“We have a number of resources available on our website to actively help you prepare before it is too late, and our volunteers are always happy to help you with any questions you may have.”

CFA will be running a Get Fire Ready weekend on Saturday, 4 October and Sunday, 5 October, where many brigades will open their doors to connect with local community members, hoping to build public awareness and

preparedness across Victoria.

“We’re seeing a concerning decline in property preparedness around Victorian households, so we’re really encouraging you to tidy up around your homes over coming weeks,” Jason said.

“Before the warmer weather arrives, ensure you move your winter piles away from your houses and sheds, give your trees a prune, clear your gutters and maintain the length of your grass.

“Get your emergency kit packed and ready to go, fill it with clothes, medications, toiletries, chargers and blankets and take it with you when you head to shelter.

“As we witnessed throughout the fires in the Grampians last season, the mountain of work done in the lead up to summer can make all the difference in lessening devastation on communities.

“We want to be really clear this summer.

“Our members will always be prepared and on hand to assist you, but fire safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone has a role to play.

“We cannot have a fire truck at every property during a major bushfire.

“We need you to do your bit too and take small steps to be more fire safe this year.”

NRHA celebrates Rural Generalist Medicine becoming a specialty

The National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) has welcomed the recent announcement of Rural Generalist Medicine as a new medical specialty field in Australia, congratulating all those who have worked to achieve the milestone.

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler MP made the announcement on 21 September, following a Commonwealth funded joint application by the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners to apply to the Medical Board of Australia for this speciality recognition.

Following the Medical Board of Australia’s recommendation, all health ministers have now approved rural generalist medicine as a new field of speciality practice within the specialty of general practice.

NRHA said the move recognises and honours the critical role Rural Generalists (RGs) play in delivering high-quality, comprehensive and culturally safe healthcare to rural and remote communities.

Rural Generalist Medicine encompasses primary care, hospital inpatient care, emergency medicine and population health, pro-

viding broad-scope medical care tailored to the needs of local communities.

NRHA chief executive Ms Susi Tegen recognised the historic importance of this change.

“The milestone recognition of the Rural Generalist doctor for rural, remote and regional communities in Australia by the Australian Medical Board makes this only the second addition to specialty practice in 15 years,” she said.

“Rural Generalists are multifaceted in how they support rural patients.

“They provide comprehensive

general practice and emergency care, as well as care in at least one, but often more than one, other area of medicine – such as anaesthetics, obstetrics, surgery or mental health in hospital and community clinic settings.”

The NRHA said the outcome follows decades of tireless advocacy by the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), Rural Doctors Associations of Australia (RDAA), and the Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner.

It says it has also been a strong advocate, raising the issue at critical meetings and drafting documentation to the Medical Board of Australia in support of the application for specialty recognition.

The NRHA says it hopes formal recognition of Rural Generalist Medicine will encourage more doctors to enter the very interesting and rewarding field of medicine, strengthening the rural health workforce and, above all, improving the accessible, highquality healthcare that rural, regional and remote Australians observe.

Milawa Hall Craft Market a success

By JORDAN DUURSMA

Locals and visitors flocked to Milawa on Friday, 26 September for the annual Milawa Hall Craft Market, making the most of the holiday to peruse more than 40 stalls of local handmade goods, fresh produce, artworks and more.

Organised by the Milawa Hall and Park Special

Committee, the event was a resounding success with perfect spring weather encouraging attendees to get out and about.

Milawa Hall and Park Special Committee member and booking officer Leeanne Finnigan said they had a “nice amount” of people attend the market.

“This was the second year we have run the market and

it was a resounding success,” she said.

“The numbers were impacted by the drop in traffic of people headed to Porepunkah and Bright but that is affecting all businesses in the area.”

“But we have been had dazzling day weather wise and we hope that next year we see the same.”

Leeanne said the Milawa

Hall and Park Special Committee did a wonderful job.

“It was a big team effort to make the event happen and all of our members are very committed,” she said.

If any groups are interested in running event at the Milawa Hall, please contact 0475 630 549 or visit https://www.facebook.com/ milawahallvictoria.

FAMILY FUN: Archie Wilkinson, Catherine Wilkinson and Summer Wilkinson.

HOLIDAY FUN: (Back) Poppy Shire, Morgan Shire (1), Tom Shire, (front) Alison Crawford (8), Ebony Crawford (6) and Frankie Shire (4).

HANDCRAFTED: Marion Stewart from the Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners at her stall with Marion MacPhee.

MARKET DAY: Oliver Bolger (8), Lana Bolger and Corrie Pierce. Wayne Saunders.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Tori Tanswell and Cassie Bugden.

PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

10 years ago 10 years ago

NOT SURE WHAT TO EXPECT: Alison Larkin, Jane Hill and Justine Southern from The Spirited Party Shop in Murphy Street will open their doors on tomorrow’s public holiday, and hope shoppers will visit the CBD. PHOTO: Luke Plummer

Traders unsure what tomorrow will bring

Thursday, October 1 2015

By SIMONE KERWIN

Traders are unsure about what to expect from tomorrow’s hotly debated pre-AFL grand final public holiday.

A number of small businesses in Wangaratta’s centre will open their doors despite the statewide holiday, but say the day is an unknown quantity, and they have no idea how many people will be out and about.

Justine Southern from The Spirited Party Shop in Murphy Street said the store was always busy in the lead-up to the grand final, with customers buying decorations for weekend parties, so would open its doors.

“I think (the holiday) is a bit silly – we have to work

Saturday anyway,” she said.

“We have noticed that a few others are going to open, so there should be some people out.”

Another Murphy Street retailer, Eddie Flynn from Flynns Inland and Surf, labelled the holiday “ridiculous and unnecessary”.

Mr Flynn and wife Barbara will give staff the day off tomorrow, but remain open rather than close the doors to customers on what is usually a busy day.

“I’ll be open on grand final day, so why wouldn’t I open the day before?” he said.

“The other thing is, it’s school holidays, and these are times people are around shopping.

“I would expect a few businesses to open, but I probably think it will be

people in business who can do it on their own.”

Mr Flynn said he did not expect the holiday would return in 2016.

Wangaratta Cinema Centre manager John Coxhell said the cinema and adjoining bowling alley would open tomorrow, and he hoped for extra patrons to compensate for additional costs incurred by the day.

“I expect a few in, we always get supported by the locals, but I still don’t think it’s really good for everybody,” Mr Coxhell said.

“We would have been busy anyway in the school holidays, but I don’t know if it will be any busier.

“I don’t think we need any more public holidays, and not for this.... I love car racing, so why don’t they give us a holiday for Bathurst?”

What’s on 6-12 October 2025

Scan & Save: Digitise Photographs By Appointment

Wangaratta Library

21 Docker Street, Wangaratta

Bookings required – 03 5721 2366

Free Digital Mentor Sessions

Every Wed | 10-11.30am

Wangaratta Library

21 Docker Street, Wangaratta

Learn how to use your smartphone, tablet, or computer, or need assistance using the internet, our mentor is here to help.

Bookings required – 03 5721 2366

Book Chat

Mon 6 October | 1.30pm

Wangaratta Library

21 Docker Street, Wangaratta

Find out what other people are reading and enjoying, and to share your own reads.

Bookings required – Angie 03 5722 0745

Grit & Resilience Festival

Fri 10 October | 4-6.30pm

King george V Gardens, Wangaratta

Celebrate connection, inclusion, and community spirit. Live music, food, drumming, games, and family-friendly fun.

No bookings required

Building connections in the park

By SIMONE KERWIN

Following a recent Rural Australians for Refugees Indi forum held in Wangaratta, several Afghan attendees from Shepparton asked if they could visit the group for a picnic.

They were enthusiastically invited to do so, and last week three large coaches

carrying 96 women and children arrived in Wangaratta on the first day of the school holidays.

The group brought large containers of food and drinks, and laid down colourful mats and rugs in the spring sunshine at Apex Park.

RAR volunteers spent time with the group, and the children thoroughly enjoyed the

play equipment on offer in the park.

“Not everyone spoke English, but communication was not an issue,” RAR member Suzie Don Leonard said.

“We thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company.”

Anyone seeking more information about RAR is encouraged to contact Suzie on 0428 575 971.

Executive Officer

Lead a rural community foundation that is helping shape the future of place-based change in Australia

Tomorrow Today, Benalla’s independent community foundation, seeks a strategic and collaborative Executive Officer.

Tomorrow Today connects people, resources and ideas to create a stronger more resilient rural community. Its major focus is on improving outcomes for local children and young people. This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected foundation as it enters its next chapter, with national recognition for its Education Benalla Program.

We’re seeking a leader with governance, financial and people management experience, outstanding collaboration and stakeholder skills, and the ability to think innovatively and strategically while managing detail.

Please visit brookerconsulting.com.au/position-description to view the Position Profile and upload your CV (in Word format) to apply by Monday, October 20. Alternatively, feel free to call Leighton Cantrill on 0493 827 145 for a confidential discussion.

SMILES ALL ROUND: Young people have fun on the playground equipment at Apex Park during their visit to Wangaratta.

RELAXING IN THE PARK: Afghan visitors soak up the spring sunshine.

TIME TOGETHER: Rural Australians for Refugees volunteers Bernadette Fraser and Lynda Cork enjoy time with the coachloads of visitors who travelled from Shepparton last week to spend time in Apex Park.

CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY!

Turn your unwanted jewellery and gold and precious items into CASH

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO I DO THIS?

Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!

WHY SELL?

Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items.

“Your Jewellery maybe worth a lot more than what you think!”

Rear view in Forester focus

By

The new Forester: Ah, that takes me back.

While Subaru’s most popular model has taken up with the hybrid age, changes are mostly cosmetic, including cabin layouts that have not changed much over the past four years, no impediment to the many Forester fans of which there are many.

Needless to say, there is an impressive list of standard equipment in the Forester, right down to the bargain basement.

Things such as Subaru Intelligent Drive (Intelligent and Sport modes), X-Mode with hill descent, front cornering lamps and steering responsive headlights, dual zone air-con, six-speaker audio and EyeSight Driver Assist are on hand depending on model.

Prices start at $43,490 for the entry-level Forester and includes seven variants, four petrol only and three hybrids, featuring Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive sending constant traction to all four wheels.

A Touring variant, the test vehicle, comes in at $50,990, while the range is topped off by the Forester Hybrid Touring at $55,990.

Additions include gloss black radiator grille, leather and suede upholstery and ten-speaker sound system.

Making a debut in the new Forester is Subaru’s next generation Hybrid e-Boxer system mating a 2.5-litre horizontally opposed ICE with 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh battery, giving the vehicle a claimed range of more than 1000 kilometres on a full tank.

Forester petrol and hybrid models are covered by Subaru’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 12 months roadside assist.

STYLING

Subaru says the new SUV shows off a ‘bold evolution’ in Forester design that’s wider, more athletic and purpose-built for Australian conditions, with C-shaped LED headlamps, incorporating LED daytime running lights and cornering lamps for better visibility at intersections.

While aerodynamics was a major consideration in shaping the vehicle – sleeker door mirrors mounted lower, for example - there’s still more than a nod to the original rugged SUV shape.

All models have 18- or 19inch alloy wheels, depending on the grade.

The Touring rolls on the latter and is singled out for gloss black front grille, front and rear bumper accents, plus side mirrors and lowprofile roof rails.

Every Forester sports an aluminium bonnet - reducing weight but adding strength with a view to enhancing pedestrian protection – while maintaining a solid SUV identity.

INTERIOR

Seating has come in for particular attention, with Subaru engineers working with anatomy experts to develop better support for the lower back and hips, helping keep the spine aligned and reduce tiredness on long journeys.

Seat rails are mounted directly on to the chassis to minimise sway and absorb vibration giving a smoother ride, while safety is enhanced by a new side bolster design that helps reduce whiplash in a collision.

The Touring takes up leather and suede upholstery in black or brown with brown interior stitching and heated and ventilated front seats.

INFOTAINMENT

Inside, the Forester has been revamped to lift com-

AT A GLANCE

MODEL LINE-UP:

FORESTER AWD: $43,490

FORESTER AWD PREMIUM: $46,490

FORESTER AWD HYBRID: $46,490

FORESTER AWD SPORT: $48,490

FORESTER AWD TOURING: $50,990

FORESTER AWD HYBRID SPORT: $54,990

FORESTER AWD HYBRID TOURING: $55,990

NOTE: This price does not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Subaru local dealer for drive-away prices.

fort, connectivity and cabin refinement.

At the centre of the dash is an 11.6-inch full-HD infotainment touchscreen, designed for ease of use for wireless Apple CarPlay and wired and wireless Android Auto.

An on-screen digital multifunction display and a second information screen are positioned to reduce driver distraction.

Below is a wireless phone charge pad.

Front and rear USB ports include high-output USB-A and USB-C connections for faster charging.

Front ports offer convenient access for both device connectivity and power delivery, with rear ports enabling passenger charging, keeping tablets and smartphones powered up and ready throughout longer journeys.

The ten-speaker Harman/ Kardon sound system with subwoofer supplies audio of a standard far beyond that expected in a mid-range market vehicle.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

Petrol-only Foresters are powered by Subaru’s triedand-true 2.5-litre Boxer engine developed for improved reliability and response with less noise, vibration and harshness.

Petrol-powered models feature Subaru’s latest-generation Lineartronic CVT, re-tuned for sharper performance and improved efficiency.

A broader gear ratio range (now 8.1, up from 7.0) allows for stronger take-off acceleration and more relaxed highway cruising.

Lower first and reverse gears aid hill climbing – even in reverse – while a new eight-speed manual mode enhances driver engagement.

This CVT is paired with Subaru’s updated Active Torque Split AWD system, which dynamically adjusts torque distribution – optimised to the vehicle’s weight balance – to deliver better steering response and more

■ IMPRESSIVE: There is an impressive list of standard equipment in the Forester, right down to the bargain basement.

confident handling across varying surfaces.

SAFETY

One thing that has changed dramatically over the years since the first Forester made landfall Down Under is protection of passengers and pedestrians.

For a start, new-generation vehicles, across the board, are fitted with nine airbags, including far-side and front passenger cushion.

Latest generation EyeSight Driver Assist technology is standard across the range.

Featured are a new wideangle monocular camera displaying a wider field of view, and the new emergency driving stop system, Subaru vision assist, and driver monitoring.

Active systems include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (front and rear), active torque vectoring, autonomous emergency steering and blind spot monitoring.

The above is backed by emergency lane-keep assist, front side radar, lane centring, lane change and lane-keep assist.

Slow manoeuvres, including parking, is helped by rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, while traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring play their part in safe driving.

DRIVING

The 2.5-litre petrol engine produces 136kW of power at 5800rpm and 247Nm of torque at 3700rpm, its broad, flat torque curve ensuring smooth acceleration and strong performance across a wide range of driving conditions, particularly when overtaking or carrying a full load.

A broader gear ratio range (now 8.1, up from 7.0) allows for stronger take-off acceleration and more relaxed highway cruising.

Lower first and reverse

gears aid hill climbing – even in reverse – while a new eightspeed manual mode enhances driver engagement.

This CVT is paired with Subaru’s updated Active Torque Split AWD system, which dynamically adjusts torque distribution – optimised to the vehicle’s weight balance – to deliver better steering response and more confident handling across varying surfaces.

Subaru rates Forester Touring fuel consumption at 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle with 180g/km carbon dioxide emissions.

The test Touring recorded a tad over 10 litres per 100km around city and suburbs and less than six litres per 100 kilometres at motorway speeds.

Enhanced cabin insulation and vibration damping have reduced interior noise, while 360-degree Surround View Monitor has increased visibility and hence a pleasing on- and off-road driving experience.

And with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, enhanced Australian suspension tuning, plus 220mm ground clearance, the Forester Touring is purpose built for local on- and off-road conditions.

SUMMARY

No worries, the New Age Subaru Forester still has its SUV chops.

DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

Charming red brick in a sought after setting

Nestled in the tranquil surrounds of Riverview Crescent, this beautifully presented red brick home combines timeless character with modern day appeal.

With three spacious bedrooms and a thoughtful layout, it offers a welcoming lifestyle for families, investors or those seeking a peaceful retreat just moments from the CBD.

Set on a generous 618m² approx. corner block, the property provides both privacy and space, framed by estab-

lished gardens that create a serene atmosphere.

Built circa 1940, the home retains many of its original period features, including soaring ceilings, ornate cornices and the warmth of traditional brickwork, giving it a distinctive charm that is rarely found today.

The inviting living spaces are complemented by a separate dining room, perfect for family gatherings, entertaining friends or enjoying quiet evenings in a

home that radiates comfort.

With leafy parkland views, residents can relax in a private setting while still being close to everyday amenities.

Just a short stroll to the King River, this property presents an enviable lifestyle with the best of nature on your doorstep.

Whether you’re searching for your first home, a family haven or a smart investment, this property is a rare opportunity to secure a classic residence in a highly sought-after location.

EVERY BACKYARD NEEDS A BUFFALO

3 1 2

Agent | Garry Nash & Co

Phone | (03) 5722 2663

Price | $765,000

Land | 618m2 (approx)

Location | 2 Riverview Crescent, Wangaratta

Whether it’s garden tools, weekend projects, or just a place to keep the lawnmower out of the weather, Buffalo Built sheds are designed to make backyard life easier. Aussie-made, tough, and built to last.

Perfectly designed for modern family living, this impressive three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers both space and versatility.

Each bedroom is equipped with builtin robes and ceiling fans, while a dedicated study provides the ideal setup for remote work or quiet learning.

A separate studio adds further flexibility, perfect for guests, extended family or a home office.

Recently renovated, the kitchen and bathrooms showcase stylish finishes and practical design, with quality 900mm cooking appliances delivering a highly functional space for everyday living and entertaining.

Comfort is assured year-round with a wood heater, split systems, evaporative cooling and ducted gas heating.

system, a generous walk-in

board and a double

Set on an expansive 1300m² approx. block, the property is an entertainer’s dream. A large decked alfresco overlooks the sparkling heated swimming pool, while a mature mulberry tree and thoughtfully landscaped surrounds add to the sense of tranquility. The home also includes a 5.4kW

Conveniently located close to primary and secondary schools in the soughtafter West End, this home offers the complete package for families seeking space, comfort and lifestyle.

or

ONLINE CLEARING SALE

Wangaratta 2/81 Murdoch Road

Glenrowan 13 Hill Street

Glenrowan 38 Glenrowan West Road

Boorhaman East 168 Hennessy Lane

129Ac

Farming opportunity in Boorhaman East For Sale $819,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36588645

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 64 Willow Drive

wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36049711

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 27 Milnes Creek Drive

by

wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L1193269 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 41 Pin Oak Drive

4289m2 4 2 2

Modern Comfort Meets Tranquil Surroundings For Sale $1,169,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L32883523

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Londrigan 659 Wang-Eldorado Road

106Ac

Superb Farming or Lifestyle Opportunity

Auction 3rd October 11am Onsite (unless sold prior) View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36041177

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta

Joe McKenzie Paul Reid Hugh Amery Danial Siperki Sam Lyster

The latest book recommendations

The latest gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, 29 September and a variety of books were shared.

The Holiday - T M Logan

A gripping thriller, with many twists and turns.

Four former university friends are celebrating their 40th birthdays by holidaying together with their families in Provence.

It seems like the perfect holiday, so what could possibly go wrong?

Well, everything, actually, when one of them turns out to be a murderer.

Foul Play - Fiona McIntosh

Superstar footballer Luca Bruni is being blackmailed for a night of lust he swears he didn’t participate in…except the photo denies that.

A media darling on and off the field, he has powerful charisma, a perfect home life he’ll do anything to protect, and more money than he knows what to do with.

He’s determined to defy the extortion racket.

When Detective Superintendent Jack Hawksworth learns that the cunning mastermind behind this crime has already swindled a dozen of the world’s most highly prized male athletes, he is instructed to keep the situation from escalating and prevent a media frenzy.

Intrigued by the creativity of the crime and the shockwaves it is creating through the global sporting fraternity, Jack begins a journey into a case that has tentacles far more wide-reaching than he ever imagined - and far more deadly.

Dust - Michael Brissenden

A web of organised crime, in a once-thriving NSW community on the edge of a nearly-dry lake.

As the lake dries up, a body is discovered, and two city detectives are bought in to investigate.

They gradually uncover a sordid trail of drugs, crime and corruption that eventually leads to some very influential people in government circles.

This puts them at risk of their lives.

The Judge’s List - John Grisham.

Lacy Stolz heads the Florida Board of Judicial Conduct.

This is the body that investigates complaints in regard to sitting Judges.

Lacy receives a request from a frightened woman who is using aliases for protection.

Jeri Crosby’s father was murdered 20 years ago and the case remains unsolved and is stone cold.

Jeri has a suspect with whom she has become obsessed with and has stalked for two decades.

Along the way she has discovered other victims.

Suspicions are easy enough but proof seems impossible.

The suspect is brilliant, patient, and always one step ahead of the law.

He has waited as long as 10 years before he kills.

He is the most cunning of all serial killers, he knows forensics, he is a brilliant hacker and can penetrate police files to see if he is on any radars.

He never is.

His crime scenes reveal nothing apart from a rope with distinctive knots with which he murders and leaves behind as a signature.

He is Judge Brannick, a judge in Florida.

He has a list with the names of his previous victims and those who will become victims.

These unsuspecting victims are people who have wronged him in some way.

How can Lacy pursue him without being added to the list?

Bring the House DownCharlotte Runcie

A one-star review, and a five-star payback.

Journalist Alex Lyons gives a bad review for a woman’s solo show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, then befriends her in a bar that evening and they spend the night together, without him revealing who he is or what he has written.

When she finds out, she takes revenge by naming and shaming him in her sub-

the past start speaking up.

His world starts to fall apart as he becomes national news.

Revenge may be sweet, and well deserved, but taken to extremes, can it also damage the avenger?

Tyrant - Conn Iggulden

The second book in the Nero Trilogy.

This book centres around Agrippina the Younger, mother of Nero and sister of Caligula, and her relentless quest for power.

Ancient Rome 50 AD. Claudius in his late fifties is now emperor of Rome after the destructive reign of Caligula.

The competence and foresight of Claudius saw the finances of Rome improve greatly; infrastructure flourished under his rule.

Agrippina, her two husbands now deceased, set her sights on the ultimate prize, wife of Claudius.

He succumbed to her flattery and feminine allure and after their marriage she em-

decisions.

Those who opposed her did so at their own peril. Claudius eventually named Nero as his successor over his own son.

Resentful of her stronghold over him Nero eventually had the final say in her demise.

An Officer and A Spy - Robert Harris

This is a spellbinding true story, written in the form of a novel, but all the facts and people are real.

It has been written from the perspective of the person who brought to light this incredible story, Colonel Picquart. Colonel Picquart discovered there were untruths, fabrications and lies in the Dreyfus case which began in 1894.

Dreyfus had been charged with treason, publicly dishonoured and sent to a tiny island off South America called Devil’s Island.

Dreyfus was Jewish, at a time of rampant antisemitism in France, and his alleged crime was that he had passed information to

Germany, however, the supposed information used to dishonour him was either fraudulent, or contaminated and more importantly non existent.

Colonel Picquart’s investigation pointed to the real traitor, a fellow-officer, Esterhazy.

Picquart was eventually court-martialled, discharged from the army and jailed for conspiracy with the Dreyfus family. Both Dreyfus and Picquart were eventually allowed back into the army, but authorities did not admit to the grave injustice done to both men until 1995.

The White Crow - Michael Robotham

This is the second in the Philomena McCarthy series.

Philomena is a reasonably inexperienced uniformed police officer.

She has the unusual background of coming from a notorious crime family headed up by her father Edward McCarthy.

Philomena, as a result of

this background, tends to keep to herself, hides this background and does not socialise with other cops after work.

Her colleagues see this as suspicious and the complication is that Philomena is close to her father and extended family and while she does not agree with their criminal activities, she can see their individual qualities and care for her.

Philomena’s father, Edward, loves his daughter and has an agreement with her never to discuss his business and never to ask what the police are currently investigating.

In this current book Philomena becomes involved in a jewellery shop robbery and murder investigation.

As the investigation moves forward it appears that the McCarthy family are somehow involved.

As Philomena is the first officer on the scene she goes from being viewed as an asset to the investigation to a possible suspect in the crime.

Foul Play - Fiona McIntosh

The Holiday - T M Logan

Rural City Connection

Unscheduled Council Meeting

An unscheduled council meeting will take place on 6 October at 10am in Council Chambers, 62-68 Ovens St, Wangaratta. You are welcome to attend in person or watch the recording live on Council’s YouTube channel. The agenda and meeting details can be viewed at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Council-meetings

Only questions relating to the items on the agenda will be accepted. Questions need to be submitted by 9:00am on the meeting day to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or ask in person during the meeting. For accessibility support, contact Customer Service on 03 5722 0888.

Items on the agenda:

Financial Statement and Performance Statement for year ending 30 June 2025

Award of Contract 57516 Annual Road Reseal Program 2025-26

G’day Glenrowan

G’Day Glenrowan Market Day is tomorrow Saturday 4 October, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Lion’s Park, Gladstone Street, Glenrowan.

Enjoy 60+ stalls, live music, kids’ face painting, BBQ, street performers, and free entry to Ned Kelly Discovery Hub. Support local makers, enjoy great vibes, and celebrate Glenrowan’s creative spirit.

Expressions of InterestSummer Events

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

Grit and Resilience Festival

The Grit and Resilience Festival is about connection, inclusion, and community spirit. It brings together local mental health services and activity groups to showcase how they support wellbeing across our community. Enjoy live music, community drumming, delicious food, and relaxing games.

Friday 10 October, 4:00 - 6:30pm King George V Gardens Find out more here: https://bit.ly/4nOy80i

Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta

• Youth Strategy closes 25 October

• Domestic Animal Management Plan closes 25 October

Join Youth Council

Are you aged between 14-18 and want to have your say on what matters to young people in Wangaratta? Nominations are open for the 2026 Youth Council. Contribute your ideas, build your leadership skills, and make an impact in your community. If you’re up for the challenge, apply before 11 October www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/youthcouncil

New Year’s Eve

We’re thrilled to announce the lineup for North East Victoria’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration. On stage there will be the electrifying Melbourne Ska Orchestra, ARIA-winning country star Fanny Lumsden, local rising artist RIFF, and the multi-talented Indigenous Outreach Project. For more info head to our website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/Events

Seniors Festival

This month is senior’s month - come along to one of the 171 free and affordable events and activities. View the program of online, or pick up a copy at the following locations: Rural City of Wangaratta Customer Service Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre, Wangaratta Library, Wangaratta Sports & Aquatic Centre

www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Wangaratta-Seniors-Festival-2025

Tenders

T16519 Supply of Clothing and PPE Tenders close 12.00pm on 5 October 2025

For further details please visit eProcure on Council’s website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/CouncilSuppliers/Council-Tenders

Australia Day Nominations

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.

Purple Bin Collections Have Commenced

Find out when your bin will be collected here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/PurpleBin

Positions Vacant

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

DJ and CL Collison

Concrete and Kurb, all concrete works, residential and commerical, free quotes. Call Dave 0457 155 564.

WHEELER

Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs - yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt service. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.

CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.

o o

To Visit Visited

GARAGE SALE

Saturday, October 4 8am – 12.30pm NO EARLY CALLERS

Camping equipment, adult bikes, beer fridge, Elfa PA system, safe, household items, womens clothing (sizes 1822) 105 Appin Street, Wangaratta.

o o

To Visit Visited

KITCHENWARE , games, puzzles, books, clothing, bikes, welder, garden items. Two households combined and too much to mention.

Saturday, October 4, 8am-2pm 90 Talgai Drive, Waldara.

o o

To Visit Visited COMBINED MEMBERS

GARAGE SALE

Saturday, October 4, 10am - 4pm at the Baseball Softball Club, Murdoch Road, Wangaratta. All money raised goes to help start softball again in Wangaratta. Donated items, too many to mention. Also silent auctions of Netball and Basketball rings on stands and an 8ft Trampoline. Highest Bid announced at 4pm. Winner notified.

MOTOR home Benz Sprinter, clean, neat unit, 247,777km, air condition, cabin/ living area, shower, toilet, electric pump, microwave, gas stove, 3-way fridge, double bed, single/double bed over cabin, good rubber duals on back, gas hot water, 2 solar panels, new wind out awning, $32,000. Ph 0427 662 951.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

CLEANER WANTED

Cleaner needed for local Motel. Wangaratta area. Experience essential. Phone Paul 0401 784 411.

Advertising Account Manager Print and Digital Media

Who are we looking for?

The ideal candidate will have:

North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to join our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.

• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.

• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.

• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones.

• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.

• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns.

• A current driver’s licence

What are we offering?

A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.

About North East Media

North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent familyowned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.

How to apply

If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:

Leah Scott lscott@nemedia.com.au

Advertising Manager North East Media Pty Ltd

PART-TIME MARKET COORDINATOR

We are seeking a highly organised and passionate individual to join our team as a part-time Market Coordinator. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating our monthly farmers market, held on the 2nd Saturday of every month.

Key Requirements:

• Passion for food and local produce.

• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

• Strong event or project management experience.

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief letter addressing the key responsibilities to wangarattafarmersmarket@gmail.com by 5pm on October 10, 2025.

This role offers genuine growth potential for someone who values teamwork, takes pride in their

and

We’re looking for someone who brings a mix of the following strengths and qualities -

• A friendly, respectful approach to customers and colleagues

• Willingness to learn and grow into new responsibilities

• Strong time management skills

• Basic computer literacy (training provided)

• Irrigation and horticulture/ agricultural knowledge (desirable but not essential)

• Forklift ticket or willingness to obtain

• Current and valid Driver’s Licence

SECRETARY

We are looking for a secretary, previous experience is preferred but is not essential.

The ideal person for the role will be selfmotivated, willing to learn with a positive and friendly manner. Applicants should otherwise be computer literate, possess a solid work ethic and have an eye for detail. Full-time preferred, an immediate start is available.

All enquiries should in the first instance be in writing with a current resume addressed and received by no later than close of business on Monday, October 13, 2025 to:

The Office Manager HDC Legal PO Box 8 Benalla, VIC, 3672

Maureen Curran Happy 80th Birthday

Lots of love from Gailene and Col, Vance, Renee, Emily and Avah.

DEATH NOTICES

ARNOLDUSSEN, Catherine Anne “Anne”.

The family of Anne Arnoldussen are saddened to announce her passing at Illoura Aged Care, Wangaratta on Sunday, September 28, 2025. Aged 81 years.

Dearly loved wife of Hans (dec). Beloved Mum and mother-in-law of Greg and Kym, Kyra-Jane and Stefan. Adored Oma of Frederick and Isabelle. Anne was dearly loved by her family and friends and will be remembered for her caring and generous nature.

Reunited with Hans.

BOONZAAYER

Barbara Edith

18/6/1938 – 29/9/2025

The family of Barbara Boonzaayer is saddened to announce her passing on September 29, 2025. Aged 87 years.

Passed away peacefully. Always in our heart.

CORNELIUS, Allen.

10/7/1941 – 24/9/2025

Much loved brother and brother-in-law of Eric and Beryl. Much loved uncle of Lisa, Tanya, Kim and their families. We will miss you Al.

Dearly loved uncle of Lisa and Robbie. Adored great uncle of Charlie and Geordie.

Thanks for looking after us. Forever in our hearts.

CORNELIUS, Allen.

A true gentleman and friend. Allen you will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with Marie and family. Rest in peace.

~ Garry and Claire Sanders and family.

CORNELIUS, Allen. Special times shared. Sport, fishing and duck opening with Linton. Weddings, bringing up children. Always being there. ~ The Briggs family.

DELANEY, Patrick Francis. 14/9/32 – 1/10/25

Loving father of Julie, Pam (dec), Chris, Maree, Carmel, Greg and Andrew. Proud grandfather of 16 and Great grandfather of 16 (nearly 18). Reunited with Mum, Gloria. Rest in peace.

Please see later paper for funeral details.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

ARNOLDUSSEN

Family and friends of Anne Arnoldussen are invited to attend her graveside service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery Promenade on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 2.00pm.

A private cremation will have taken place prior to the service.

Anne’s service can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

BOONZAAYER

GRANT, Jill.

5/10/2018

Memories are the timeless treasures of the heart. Deeply loved and sadly missed.

~ Gary and family

MULLINS, Tracy Maree. Passed away September 30, 1990. Aged 12 years. Dearly loved daughter of Jan (Kellett). Loving sister of Kellie and Shaun. Deep in our hearts you will always stay. Loved and remembered every day.

7/10/1951 – 27/9/2025

Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta.

Loving wife of Frank (dec). Loved mother of Paul.

HYNARD, Gregory Allan.

16/2/1941 – 19/9/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Greg, surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband of Faye.

Forever loved father of Brad, Nick and Kate. Cherished father-in-law of Melinda.

Much adored grandfather of Lincoln, Mackenzie, Nelson, Emerson and Lily. Cherished great grandfather of his four beautiful girls.

A true gentleman, deeply loved, forever missed.

HYNARD, Gregory Allan.

16/2/1941 – 19/9/2025

In loving memory of Greg, the husband of Faye. He made a large contribution over many years to Wangaratta and District.

Our deepest sympathy to his family.

~ In loving memory David and Marion Evans

HYNARD, Greg.

The President, Vice President, Board and Members of the Wangaratta Bowls and Sports Club extend sincere sympathy to Greg’s family on his passing. Greg was a past Office Bearer and member.

Family and friends of Barbara Boonzaayer are invited to celebrate her life in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday October 8, 2025, commencing at 10.30am. A private cremation will follow. Barbara’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/ Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

GIGLIOTTI

Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Maria Gigliotti will be offered in St Patricks Catholic Church, Ford Street, Wangaratta on Friday, October 10, 2025, commencing at 1.30pm. Burial will follow in the Vault section at the Wangaratta General Cemetery.

Maria’s Mass can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

HYNARD

A memorial service to honour the life of Greg will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Rd, Wangaratta on Monday October 6, 2025, commencing at 11am.

MULLINS, Tracy Maree. 27/1/1978 to 30/9/1990 Aged 12 years. Our Angel ‘Tracy daughter’ and treasured sister left us 35 years ago. You are remembered everyday.

~ With love Dad, Kellie, Danielle, Courtney and Maude ❤️❤️

NEEDHAM, Terry. October 2, 2022.

I still can’t believe you are gone Dad. Even though it’s been 3 years you are forever in my thoughts and always in my heart. Miss you and love you. ~ Faye.

Mason Park

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.

Seniors

Best

Most Determined: Charlie Thompson.

A grade

Best and Fairest: Holly McCarthy. Best and Fairest runner up: Gracie Reid. Coaches Award: Amelia Sharp.

Rovers recognise their best

After their phenomenal season in the 2025 Ovens and Murray Football Netball League season, members of Wangaratta Rovers came together at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway last Thursday evening to celebrate those who make the club what it is, on and off the field and court.

Thirds best and fairest runner up and best in finals

Reserves

Best and Fairest: Harry McMonigle.

Best and Fairest runner up: Harry Nolan.

Most Determined: Trey Vincent. Most Improved: Sam Allen. Coaches Award: Cormac McNamara.

B grade

Best and Fairest: Jeynelle Henderson.

Best and Fairest runner up: Tommi Norman. Coaches

Thirds

Best and Fairest: Charlie Lugg.

Best

Best

Coaches Award: Tom Ford, Rory Harvey.

Best Clubman: Cody Johnson.

Most Improved: Harvey Dodgshun.

Best First Year Player: Eli Saunders.

C grade

Best and Fairest: Sam Lyster.

Best and Fairest runner up: Mia Eddington.

Coaches Award: Maggie Chant.

Best in Finals: Sam Lyster.

17 and under

Best and Fairest: Lily Palmer.

Coaches

Best in Finals: Lainey Draper.

15 and under

Best and Fairest: Kayley Butera.

Best and Fairest runner up: Arabella

Coaches Award: Georgie Hill.

Life Member Stuart Booth.

Life Members Peter Harvey and Mark Nolan.

Thirds best and fairest winner Charlie Lugg.

15 and under netball best and fairest runner up Arabella Cavicchiolo.

C grade best and fairest winner and best in finals Sam Lyster. Henderson.

A grade best and fairest winner Holly McCarthy.

Senior best and fairest winner Sam Murray.

PHOTOS: Cartwright Productions

Jed Marek.

Life Members Caitlyn Grant, Denis Connolly, Stuart Booth, Mark Nolan, Peter Harvey.

Clubperson of the Year Andrew Scott.

and Fairest: Sam Murray. Best and Fairest runner up: Ed Dayman.

Brotherhood Award: Lochie O’Brien. Rising Star: Noah Scholte. Coaches Award: Joel Smith.

Award: Kyia Wohlers.

and Fairest runner up: Jed Marek.

in Finals: Jed Marek.

Best and Fairest runner up: Freya Chant, Sophia Pasquali.

Award: Brooke Del Mastro.

Cavicchiolo.

Enthralling encounters at Oxley table tennis

By JUNE UEBERGANG

With football fever out of their systems, 24 players, including two newies, rolled up for a night of friendly fire and fight to give their all at last Monday night’s social table tennis competition.

Getting off the mark as the clock struck 7pm, Neil Spurgeon and Manni Poulos were in top form when they took on the equally prepared Martin Butcher and Jason Mullins in a nail-biter performance from start to finish.

With both pairs delivering power, with and without glory, mixed with finesse in fine placements, it was destined to be a long and hard-fought contest of physical and brain power.

As all four players gave their all in their determination to deliver the goods, each point took many strokes to win or lose - although final scores were

SCOREBOARD

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

Wednesday, 24 September

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford

A Grade winner: Pat Ernest on C/B Keith Moorhead 39. B Grade winner: Alex Gibbs

35. C Grade winner: Bernie Grealy 38.

Ball winners: Alex Jones 37, Peter Ford 36, Brian Luxford, Alex Gibbs, John Batchelor

35, Pat Grady, Laurie Miller 34, Stephen McNaughton on C/B from many 33.

NTPs - 4th: Mark Butter, 8th: Brian Wallace, 13th: Peter Geldens, 17th: Gary Butler.

Men’s 9 Hole Stableford

A Grade winner: Peter Walker 17. B Grade winner: Allen Mercer 17.

Ball winners: Michael Tanner 16, Garry Dickson 15, Kim Arnold 14, Fred Porter on C/b from Ray Gibbs, Leo McCoy & Tom Arnold 13.

NTPs - 13th: Peter Walker. Thursday, 25 September

Ladies 9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Pauline Mercer 19. Ball winners: Robyn Grealy 15.

Ladies 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Frances Duffy 33. Ball winners: Linda Stone

32.

NTPs - 4th: Val Ellis, 8th: Melody Adams, 13th: Jackie O’Brien, 17th: Ange Mitchell. Friday, 26 September

Grand Final Eve - Stableford

A Grade winner: Damien Rossato on C/B Adam Anderson 36. B Grade winner: Michael Monro 35. C Grade winner: Terry Docherty 37.

Ball winners: Adam Anderson, Sue Clayton 36, Keith Moorhead, Glenn O’Connell 35, Robyn Ottaway, Gordon Paterson, Jim D’Arcy, John Huntington 34.

NTPs - 4th: Victoria Fry, 8th: Grant Pearce, 13th: Damien Rossato , 17th: Bronte Bruce.

Saturday, 27 September

Ladies 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Tamara O’Connor

40.

36.

Ball winners: Linda Stone

NTPs - 4th: Tamara

O’Connor, 8th: Bruna McDonald, 13th: Tamara

recorded, hearty handshakes and big smiles indicated it was a win for all.

New girl on the scene, Liz Kerr, quickly slipped into gear when she and the fast-improving enthusiast Harper Nethercote lined up against their older opponents, Richard Morgan and Graham Stephens, in a game where each pair complemented their partner’s game style while capitalising on their own in their bid for supremacy.

Long, short, wide, narrow, high, low, lucky and unlucky shots all contributed to a great spectacle of fight and fun for all, from go to whoa.

And although there was a definite generation gap, neither pair offered up and gimmies as each threw their all into the game until final scores revealed one pair won by two points.

Teaming up in the ‘big boys’ event, Neil Brock joined Mick Gervasoni to play against Gary

O’Connor, 17th: Melody Adams.

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford

A grade winner: Pat Ernst 40. B grade winner: Alex Gibbs C/B 37. C grade winner: William Slade 37.

Ball winners: Alex Jones 38, Martin VanRhee C/B 37, Ian Mills C/B 36, Brian Luxford C/B 36, Russel Stone 36, Peter Geldens 35, Andrew Walker 35, Glenn Ryan C/B 34, Glenn O’Connell C/B 34.

NTPs - 4th: Kelvin Archer, 8th: Mike Fitzsimmons, 13th: Alex Gibbs, 17th: Alex Jones. Sunday, 28 September

Medley Stableford

Winner: Bryan Florence 35. Monday, 29 September

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford - Vets

Winner: Peter Geldens 39.

Ball winners: Bill Slade 36, Phil Bebb 35, Ray Hyland 34, Peter Collihole 34. NTPs - 8th: Peter Collihole. Tuesday, 30 September

Ladies Captain Vs Presidents Day 18 Hole Stableford

Presidents Team won the day on 267 vs the Captains Team on 23.

Presidents team winner: Robyn Ottaway 41. Captains team winner: Josie Fitzsimons 37.

Ball winners: Janet Wraith 35, Bruna McDonald 34, Kathy Hyland 34.

NTPs - 4th: Robyn Ottaway, 8th: Jackie O’ Brien, 13th: Robyn Ottaway HOLE IN ONE, 17th: Carol Myles.

Wednesday, 1 October

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford

A grade winner: Mike Monro 40. B grade winner: Glen Hunt on C/B Gordon Hines 37. C grade winner: Peter Collihole 35.

Ball winners: Neville Hogan, Nigel Cooper 38, Gordon Hines 37, Trevor Nippress, Steve McNaughton 36, Brian Thomas, Glenn O’Connell, Pat Grady 35.

NTPs - 4th: Trevor Nippress, 8th: Neville Hogan, 13th: Steve McNaughton, 17th: Pat Grady.

Men’s 9 Hole Stableford

A grade winner: Daniel Salmon 22. B grade winner:

Coad and Bill Kohne in a tight tough-out of physical and mental strengths in every facet of the game.

Neil’s long, slithery serves, Mick’s all-round court coverage, Bill’s deliberate and accurate delivery from both sides of his body, and Gary’s advantageous height and reach, all added up to a showdown of high proportions.

In a game where nothing was left on the table, Gary and Bill scraped home by a very narrow margin.

Alison Stephens was in full flight when she and Bruce Fletcher challenged Phoebe Morgan and Sheryn (who loves the gourmet region but still calls Adelaide home) in a game where everyone showed desire, desperation, and determination to the nth degree.

As Alison covered more ground than the MCG, Bruce stood his ground to forcibly deliver and defend every-

Ron Renkin 20.

Ball winners: Jim D’Arcy 20, Michael Tanner, Daine Porter 19, Matt Walker C/B Garry Dickson 18.

NTPs - 4th: Ron Smith, 8th: Kevin Arnold.

WANG GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending 28 September

Tuesday, 23 September

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford Event

Winner: Annie Wilson 36 points. Runner Up: Ash Wheeler 34 points C/B.

Wednesday, 24 September

Men’s 18 Hole Stroke Event

Winner: Luke Jones 42 points. Runner Up: Geoffrey Webster 39 points C/B.

Ball Winners: Paul Judd, Matt Nicolosi, Kurt Schubert, Andrew Storer, Bill Dodd, Chris Oates, Russell Wallace, Gregory Sullivan, Isaac Willett.

NTPs - 2nd: Geoffrey Webster, 4th: Chris Oates, 13th: Norman Wilson, 18th: Kurt Schubert.

9 Hole Stroke Event

Winner: Leonard Chandler 20 points. Runner Up: Graeme Arnold 18 points.

Ball Winners: Rodney Godde.

Thursday, 25 September

Women’s 9 Hole Stableford Event

Winner: Barbara Thomas 21 points. Runner Up: Angela Watson 18 points.

18 Hole Stableford Event

Winners: Jan Hill 35 points. Runners Up: Barbara Woodward 34 points.

Saturday, 27 September

Men’s Competition

18 Hole Par Event

A Grade Winner: Chris Oates +3. A Grade Runners Up: Jeremy Winter +2.

B Grade Winner: David Woodstock +5. B Grade

Runners Up: Rodney Godde +3 C/B.

thing that came his way, while Phoebe pulled shots from nowhere and delivered them everywhere, and Sheryn anticipated and capitalised on many seemingly impossible returns, which all added up to a very competitive and fun game for all.

After a great contest, which provided much entertainment for those in the stands, finals scores saw Alison and Bruce come up trumps (not Donald). In the Gen Z match, Jacob Hardiman and Hugh Spring took on Olivia Strack and Ryan Van Der Poel in a winner takes all game, where every shot in the book and then some were on display from the first ping of the ball.

And although Jacob and Hugh had a little more age and experience on their side, Olivia and Ryan matched them in ability, desire, and delivery right throughout the contest. No finals scores were re-

corded, but both pairs won the praise of onlookers.

After having played umpteen games, Cheryl Coad and David Harris, and their opponents, Debbie Brunken and Sharene Gervasoni, were still rearing to go from the moment they lined up at the table.

With all four players wellknown for their durability and consistency, each pair was forced to dig deep in the endeavour to bury the plans of their opponents in both attack and defence.

And if laughter is the best medicine, they were all well dosed up as they enjoyed the ups and downs of a long and closely fought fun for all game from start to finish.

When asked ‘who won?’, both pairs laughed and said, ‘we did’.

Following a night of non-stop action, where everyone played with or against everyone, it was time to enjoy a cuppa and sup-

per, while catching up with local news and upcoming events, and making early plans for replays next week.

Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley hall each Monday night, beginning at 7pm.

NTPs - 2nd: Jason McCoy, 4th: Jason McCoy, 7th: Isaac Willett, 13th: Matt Fischer, 16th: Denis Hill, 18th: Isaac Willett.

Domino’s Voucher NTP 10th - 2nd Shot: Chris Oates. RSL Voucher NTP 12th - 2nd Shot: Kris Allan. Birdies: SubwayDrew Winter.

Eagle:

Secret 6: David Woodstock. Raffle Winner: Jeremey Winter

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford Event

Winner: Barbara Thomas 37 points. Runner Up: Sue McCall 34 points.

Sunday, 28 September

Medley Competition: 18 Hole Stableford event

Winner: Nikole Cunningham 40 points. Runner Up: Tamara O’Connor 37 points.

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Kris Allan 19 points. Runner Up: Seb DeNapoli 16 points.

TARRA GOLF

The members played a Stableford event with winner being Ken Miller 38pts and the runner up was Leo McCoy 33pts.

Nearest the pin on the fourth was Leo McCoy.

Monthly Awards – Captains: Ken Miller. Sec/Treasures Award: Leo McCoy. Birdies: Bill Wright. Gobblers: Lindsay Steer.

The Eclectic for the season has been finalised with the winner being Marc Nolan. Golf to be played on Saturday, 4 October will be for the final Pete Nolan Medal of Medals, this is to be played for by the medal winners for the past season.

Carole O’Sullivan was in hot pursuit and won a ball for her efforts.

The NTP on the 13th was won by Toni Wilson. Next week the ladies will compete for the October Monthly Medal - starting time is 9.30am for a 10am tee-off.

WANG CROQUET

Results for Monday, 29 September are as follows: Joan Dyson 7 d Janet Kelly 6, Cheryle Beckley/Elise Downes 7 d Jed Hart/Bronwyn Townsend 6, Nathan Reynolds/ Julie Sheahan 7 d Margaret Bennett/Maureen O’Keefe 5.

From Monday, 6 October, play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Also, from that day we wear our summer uniform of white pants with the club top.

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.

WARBY WALKERS

Friday, 26 September to Sunday, 28 September - a long weekend in the Warby Ovens National Park walking the Warbys south to north, then through the Killawarra Forest to Peechelba via Wallaby Hill and the national park track along Irishtown Creek.

including ambling up Mount Killawarra.

Amazingly, three adventurers camped the two nights, and two of these carried packs all the way, The park seemed in great condition overall, with magnificent wildflowers visible all the way and our very special grass trees flowering prolifically right along the range.

The only obvious common weed observed was St John’s Wort, which is extremely difficult to manage in wilderness areas.

This special walk was part of 50-year celebrations saluting the pioneer work of the Warby Range Preservation Society, which began their efforts in 1975 with the aim of building a state park along the Warby Range which was then only conserved in small sections.

When that task was achieved, the society developed two extra groups to continue their endeavours.

The strong Warby Range Bushwalking Club continues to this day, and the Friends of the Warbys after a 15 year or so “rest” carries on in the form of the Friends of the Warby Ovens National Park in 2025. It was fantastic to have two WRPS original members (Adrian and Helen Twitt) walking for part of the journey on Friday with their daughter and granddaughter as well.

Coming Events

Ball Winners: Geoffrey Webster, Neville McCormick, Seb DeNapoli, Sam Antonacci, Brandon Bowen, Matt Niedra, Dylan Shepherd, Matt Nicolosi, Phillip Winnell, Arnold Sparks, Isaac Willett, Mark White, Martin Anania.

Members are reminded that the Beechworth Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday, 5 October at the Beechworth Golf Club and support would be appreciated.

Tarra Ladies

Tarra ladies conducted the Monthly Milawa Hotel Stableford event last Tuesday. After a very competitive round Lynn Barrow eventually got home with the best score.

Apart from two short sections of private land (where permission to walk through was received), 15 club members plus five guests from further afield (Tasmania, Melbourne and Kilmore) achieved the traverse of our beloved Warby Range and the Killawarra Forest in excellent weather conditions.

A total of seven walkers made the approximately 53kms over the three days, with the longest journey being Saturday, when about 23kms was covered from Wenham’s camp to the Forest Camp

Sunday, 12 OctoberHavilah near Myrtleford, north side of the valley. Marita, 0427 521 122.

A medium (M) walk of about 13km, or a short (E) version of about 6km.

The walk meanders along bush roads with smooth surfaces - it’s all in the forest, part native and part pine. Some sections follow the ridge, while others are further down the side of the hill. Views of the hills and valleys on both sides of the ridge can be seen through the trees.

The ascent and descent are 320m (M), and 230m (E), but with no steep sections.

REACH TO ROCK: Bruce Fletcher and Alison Stephens set themselves for another point.

PHOTO: Jason Mullins

O’Keeffe’s star continues to rise

By SIMONE KERWIN

Wangaratta soccer star Poppy O’Keeffe has signed with Melbourne Victory for the 2025-’26 A-League Women’s season.

The 17-year-old midfielder, who has been living in Melbourne since 2023 while pursuing her sporting ambitions, said it was “amazing” to become the first female player to progress through the full Victory Academy pathway to first-team.

“I’ve been around Victory so long, and it’s become my club, so it’s always been a dream of mine,” she said.

“It’s been a long process, but I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”

O’Keeffe’s football journey began at Wangaratta City, where she took part in MiniRoos and junior competitions, before moving to Murray United FC in Wodonga, where she started Victory Pre-Academy clinics at just 10 years of age.

She continued with these until Victory launched its Elite Girls Program in Melbourne, for which she travelled from Wangaratta to Melbourne once a week for two years, also combining her Football Victoria National Training Centre involvement.

In 2023, when she relocated to Melbourne to attend sports specialist school Maribyrnong College, O’Keeffe started training with Victory seniors, and last year had a youth contract, before sign-

ing a scholarship (professional) contract this season.

“I’ve always had such a passion for football, and my cousin Seb (Pasquali, who has A-League experience with Melbourne Victory and Western United) has always inspired me,” she said.

Her hard work and consistent efforts earned O’Keeffe a call-up to last season’s round 13 wider game-day Victory squad in January, and she spent the second half of the 2025 National Premier League’s Women Victoria season with the Football Victoria Academy, playing every minute of her 11 games.

Now in pre-season training, O’Keeffe is looking forward to the season commencing at the start of November.

“This season I just hope to get on the bench, and then see where I progress from there,” she said.

“I’ve been at Victory for a few years now, so I know everyone pretty well, and they are all so supportive.”

The rising star also appreciates the backing of her family, as she combines online year 11 studies with her football commitments in Melbourne.

“I have training every day at 9am, then meetings, more training, gym, meetings, and then head home for schoolwork,” she said.

“I wouldn’t be here without Mum - she takes me to every training and every game, and I have so much support from Dad and my siblings too.”

While based in Melbourne, O’Keeffe said Wangaratta would always have a place in her heart.

“I always want to feel like I have a bit of Wangaratta in me,” she said.

“The two lifestyles are very different, Melbourne and Wangaratta, but I love them both, and it’s good to get back to Wangaratta sometimes where it’s quieter.”

O’Keeffe’s advice to anyone keen to tread a similar path in their chosen sport is to “work hard and put in the effort”.

“Nothing comes easily, but if you put the work in, it’s worth it,” she said.

Victory’s head coach, Jeff Hopkins, said in a statement from the club to mark O’Keeffe’s signing: “The day before we played a game in Adelaide, I went up to Wodonga to watch her play.

“At just 10 years old, she was already dominant against the boys and stood out.

“From that time on, we were really keen on Poppy and looking forward to assisting in her development.

“She became a train-on player with the first team at 14 years old and has not looked back, progressing rapidly and now officially joining up with the A-League women’s squad.”

Having already been part of the Junior Matildas squad, O’Keeffe now has her sights set on the under 20 Young Matildas, but in the meantime, she can’t wait for the ALeague season ahead.

FOCUSED: POPPY O’KEEFFE’S CLEAR VISION FOR HER FUTURE HAS DRIVEN HER CONTINUAL CLIMB THROUGH THE RANKS.

Wason claims first state title flag

Local dirt track racing gun Abbey Wason proved she’s a talent in the sport after taking out a maiden win at the Victorian Dirt Track Titles.

Hosted at Albury Wodonga Motorcycle Club across the weekend of 20-21 September, at Wason’s home track, the rising star took out top honours in the women’s division, as well as a sixth-place finish in the men’s Pro 250 bracket, matching it with the best men racing in the state.

Across the weekend, Wason was at the head of the pack throughout, taking a clean run and five heat wins in her women’s division, while keeping pace with the boys.

After months and years of hard work, it all came together, with Wason taking an immense confidence boost – as well as a medal and state title championship ring – into her future races.

Wason was understandably over the moon with the results.

“I had an awesome weekend, I was absolutely chuffed to be on the pace with the boys - I gave it my all and it all paid off,” she said.

“I even got the privilege of being setup in the pits with my dad who had his first race meeting back in years.

“The track was absolutely mint from start to finish – massive thanks to the club for putting in the hard yards and looking after us like they always do.

“Genuinely so stoked to come away with these results, as it means the world to me to make it all worth-

while for my sponsors, who stand behind me at every event.

“So glad I had my family there to watch me get my first flag.

“I couldn’t be happier with how it all came together, I’m absolutely chuffed and already hanging to get back out there again soon.”

Wason wanted to thank all of her sponsors and supporters for all their hard work behind the scenes which allows her to go out and tear up the track.

The action never stops, with Wason named to compete for the Rest of Australia team at this weekend’s State of Origin event at Mildura, taking on some of the best NSW riders.

To follow along with Abbey’s journey, check out her Instagram @ abbmoto63.

Rangers T-Ball back bigger and better

After a fantastic response last year with over 40 enthusiastic young players, the Wangaratta Baseball Softball Rangers are thrilled to announce the return of their popular T-ball program this October, and it’s shaping up to be even greater than it’s ever been.

Designed for boys and girls aged five to eight years old, the program is all about fun, friendship, and learning new skills in a safe, active environment.

Whether it’s your child’s first time playing or they’re returning for another season, T-Ball is the perfect sport to build confidence and enjoy team sport.

This season’s program will run for eight weeks, starting Thursday, 9 October at 4.30pm.

It’s an ideal after-school activity to keep kids engaged, active, and social in spring afternoons.

The cost is $75 per player, which includes a team shirt to use for games, a t-shirt (to keep) and either a brand-new glove for first-time participants or a Rangers cap for those returning from last year.

T-Ball coordinator Sean Warfe said the community response in 2024 exceeded expectations.

“We were blown away by the number of families who got involved last season, and the energy on the diamond was incredible,” he said.

“It’s not just about sport, it’s about creating a fun and welcoming space for kids to thrive.

“We are also very appreciative of the local business that have supported our program.”

Families are encouraged to register to secure a place, as spots are limited.

To sign up or find out more, visit the Wangaratta Baseball Softball club website www.wangarattarangers.com, Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Facebook page, or call 0435 997 326.

TEAR UP THE TRACK: Abbey Wason took first place in the women’s division at the Victorian Dirt Track Titles. PHOTO: Juli Burns Photography

Ben Evans joins Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis Club, aiming to grow youth participation

By JORDAN DUURSMA

Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis

Club have announced the appointment of Ben Evans as junior development coach.

Evans has been coaching in various locations over the past five years, most recently at Everton.

Evans said stepping into the role he is keen to build the junior base in the Wangaratta Hardcourt Ten nis Club.

“This age group hasn’t had a coach here for a few years so I want to encourage the young kids to come and try tennis, to build up the youth in the region.

“It’s really rewarding to see the juniors thriving on and off the court.

“We’ll be looking to do a similar thing in Wangaratta as we have in Everton, helping get that junior base stronger. “I want to see these kids enjoy tennis and participating in sport in general.

lar Hot Shots program, which has three age groups, ‘red balls’ (5-7 years), ‘orange balls’ (7-9 years), and ‘green balls’ (10+ years).

Evans will commence his new position on Monday, 6 October at 4.15pm with a come try and register day at the Wangaratta hardcourts at the Barr Reserve.

Evans encourages any children

followed by some fruit and snacks at the end.”

To register beforehand email wangarattahardcourttennis@ gmail.com, or call Dot Fox on 0419 303 448.

Evans will also be doing ‘cardio tennis’ for those interested.

Cardio tennis is the energised way to learn and play tennis for

Two elite athletes back Tackling Consent: A gamechanger for local sport

proud to announce that two of Aus tralia’s most inspiring athletes, AFL great Ben Brown and netball star Kiera Austin, have joined forces to endorse CAV’s free Tackling Consent program.

Their involvement marks an exciting new chapter for this values-led initiative, which supports footy and netball clubs across the Ovens and Murray region to lead conversations about consent, respect, and safe club culture.

Ben Brown is admired not only for his premiership career with Melbourne Football Club, but also for his commitment to using sport as a platform for positive social change.

Now head of development for AFLW at Essendon Football Club, Ben has built a career that reflects his passion for inclusion, gender equality, and social justice.

A dedicated champion of women’s football since 2017, he has worked as a specialist AFLW coach and is a familiar presence as a commentator and panellist on AFLW programs.

his family, Ben brings authenticity and vision to every role he takes on.

He continues to believe deeply in the power of professional athletes to enrich communities, support young people, and drive cultural progress.

Brown said sporting clubs are incredibly significant places for young people, providing a perfect setting to help them to develop healthy, safe and secure relationships.

“CAV’s Tackling Consent program provides an opportunity to start important conversations that all young people should be having,” he said.

Kiera Austin has become one of Australia’s most exciting netballers, representing the Diamonds at the elite international level and inspiring young players across the country.

Austin’s immense talent, accurate shooting, confidence on court and creativity in attack have made her an invaluable asset to the Diamonds squad.

After recovering from injury, she returned in time for the 2022 Com-

Her resilience, professionalism, and brilliance on court are matched by her commitment to creating safe and supportive sporting environments.

Kiera recognises that her own pathway to the top of her game was possible because of the culture of care she experienced as a young player.

Austin said she wouldn’t have made a career as a professional netball player if she didn’t feel safe or supported at her club growing up.

“I’m proud to join CAV’s Tackling Consent program to help create sporting communities where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered” she said.

“Every person deserves that foundation to thrive.”

Tackling Consent is a free program designed for young people aged 12 to 17 who play netball and football in the Ovens and Murray region.

Set to roll out for the 2026 season,

to give clubs the tools and confi dence to build cultures where young people feel respected and valued.

The program encourages honest conversations, highlights positive role models, and celebrates the good work already happening in clubs.

The project is a partnership between CAV and La Trobe University’s Reducing Gender-Based Violence (ReGEN) Research Group, and is proudly funded through the Partners in Prevention of Sexual Violence Project.

Spots are limited, with 10 clubs set to participate in the 2026 season.

Clubs that sign on will join a growing network of sporting communities leading the way in respect, inclusion, and positive culture.

Clubs can register now at https:// forms.office.com/r/XujM0QfTUk.

For a chat about how this program could work with your club, please contact CAV’s Kelly Timms at 03 5722 2203 or education@cav.org.au.

The seniors aggregate open day runs from 1.30pm – register your interest in participating in the weekly Saturday competition by 12.30pm on the day, or by contacting (03) 5721 2438 and leaving your name and contact details beforehand.

Competition for seniors and juniors begins on Saturday, 11 October, while twilight tennis commences on Monday, 13 October (B grade) and Tuesday, 14 October (A grade). For more information, visit their website www. wanglawntennis.com.au or check out Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet & Pickleball Club on Facebook.

After coming so close last season, Wangaratta Magpies A grade side is gearing up for the cricket season with an eye on the prize.

The Magpies made the grand final in both the one-day and two-day formats during the 2024/25 season, but were stymied at the final hurdle on both occasions by rivals Rovers United Bruck.

Now, with an altered list at their disposal, the ‘Pies will be eager to crack into the season and see what they can achieve.

Skipper Cooper Matheson said numbers were up on previous years, which had allowed them to organise their three senior squads more effectively and prepare in a new fashion.

“It’s been good so far, I think we’ve been training for four of five weeks now,” he said.

“We’ve got a practice match this weekend which is good, we haven’t had a praccy match since I’ve been playing, so it’s been good to have that, and we’ve been having pretty good numbers at training as well.

“Numbers coming into the start of the season haven’t been that great for the past couple of years, but because we’ve got a better base of numbers, we can actually do that.

“Our B grade is going to be a father-son set-up, so it’ll be good for the club and the culture of the club - there would be probably four or five, and we’ll top up in B grade every now and then, and we’ll get the juniors more involved in seniors as well.”

Kyle Winter-Irving and his x-factor abilities will be plied in the CAW District competition this season, but their bowling stocks have been bolstered by the return of Chris Clement, who took 43 poles at 5.70 back in the ‘22/’23 season.

“We’ve had a fair few ins and a fair few outs - we’re still hoping to get a couple more ins but they haven’t been secured yet,” Matheson said.

“Kyle Winter-Irving has gone to Tallangatta, Dean Simmons has gone to Tallangatta as well, Ollie [Andrew] has moved to Melbourne, and Guilly [Zac Guilfoyle] has retired – he’s said it before but I think it’s for good this time.

There have been some player moves both towards and away from Norm Minns Oval, but the core group remains as strong and committed as ever, led by players like Matheson, Nic Bonwick and Jack Davies.

“We’ve signed Dave Killen, he’ll be good, he’s won a fair few club B&Fs in Melbourne where he’s played, we’ve got Tyler Nanson across from City Colts, Chris Clement’s back this year and keen to get involved, so that fills another bowling void.”

With the A grade and A reserve competition moving solely to one-dayers and T20 matches, Matheson said he saw the malleability and adaptability of the league as a clear strength.

“I really like the decision, especially with us and last year having availability issues over the two weeks made it very hard sometimes,” he said.

“I think the league will adapt very well to it, going to one-day cricket.”

The Magpies will launch into their A grade season at the Bill O’Callaghan Oval on Saturday, 11 October against City Colts.

Poppy O'Keeffe at training in Melbourne Victory colours. The 17-year-old has signed with Victory for the