NETBALL
C GRADE: Wangaratta vs Wangaratta Rovers 3:15pm
B GRADE: Yarrawonga vs North Albury - 1:45pm
A GRADE: Wodonga Raiders vs Yarrawonga - 12:15pm
17 & UNDER: Wodonga Raiders vs Wangaratta Rovers - 10:15am
15 & UNDER: Wodonga Raiders vs Myrtleford - 8:45am
PREMIERSHIP BATTLE: Wangaratta Rovers
Wangaratta
Sunday, September 21
Lavington Sports Ground SENIORS - 2.30pm
WANGARATTA ROVERS
WANGARATTA MAGPIES
RESERVES - 11:30pm Wangaratta Rovers vs Lavington THIRDS - 9am Wangaratta vs Lavington
A reported scam claiming to be raising money on behalf of the families of two fallen policemen has been slammed by local police.
Wangaratta police issued a statement on Wednesday saying they had received a report of a scam targeting residents and businesses in the Alpine and Wangaratta regions.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@
nemedia.com.au
The statement read a conman purported to be a police officer collecting donation packages from $500-$2500 on behalf of the families of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson
and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who were tragically killed in Porepunkah on 26 August.
The statement also read that different levels of business advertisement were offered in return for each donation.
Acting Inspector Mick Drew of Wangaratta police said the scam attempt was nothing
short of “reprehensible”.
“We want it denounced in the strongest possible terms,” he said.
“It’s tragic enough what the Thompson, de-WaartHottart and the injured third officer’s family members are going through at the moment and the community as well.
“Unfortunately, there’s
always an element that will look to take advantage during times of pain, grief loss and suffering.
“We’re very committed to investigating the matter as thoroughly as possible and hopefully identifying any perpetrator and making sure we hold them to account.”
Act Insp Drew said it was too early to tell if one or
multiple scammers were at large but the investigation made significant progress in the 24 hours since it began on Wednesday.
“One of our strong focuses at this stage is to make the community aware that this activity is going on,” he said.
“We’re not yet aware of how widespread it might be.”
■ Continued page 2
Wangaratta builder R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions has taken out the top home gong, along with two more accolades for the same house, at the 2025 HIA Northern Victoria Regional Housing Awards, held in Yarrawonga.
A beautifully executed renovation and two-storey extension of a 1900s period home in Wangaratta’s Templeton Street was named HIA Home of the Year, best addition, and best renovation between $1-$2 million for the region.
The winning home strikes a harmonious balance between traditional elegance and contemporary design.
Judges said existing brickwork, Cementil Barestone wall cladding, and Maxline and Dominion profile Colorbond cladding have been thoughtfully combined in a durable, low maintenance exterior that seamlessly transitions from existing to new.
Inside, a single-spine staircase, the striking focal point of the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, was one of the many highlights noted by the judges.
The home features ample natural light and seamless connectivity to three outdoor living spaces, including an outdoor kitchen and bar area.
“HIA congratulates everyone at R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions on this award,” HIA Victoria executive director Keith Ryan said.
“The judges described the R&R team’s workmanship and attention to detail as ‘exceptional’ and selected this home as the standout from an incredibly strong field of entrants.”
Ovens & King Builders won the Greensmart Sustainable Home award for their construction of a Wangaratta home.
The home has an 8.3 star energy rating and uses 50 per cent less energy than a 7-star home.
It’s powered by renewable energy (including at 10kW photovoltaic system).
The builder’s innovative application of plaster linings as an internal membrane also contributed to an impressive level of airtightness.
High-performance insulation, heat recovery ventilation and double glazing contribute to energy efficiency as well as thermal comfort, and features such as energy efficient LED lighting and 6000 litres of rainwater storage round out an impressive package.
“The HIA awards showcase the best of the best in the residential building industry, and the outstanding quality of work being carried out by HIA members,” Mr Ryan said. “Many exceptional homes have been recognised in the 2025 HIA Northern Victoria Regional Housing Awards, and HIA congratulates all of the winners and finalists.”
■ from page 1
Act Insp Drew said there had been no losses from any local businesses who reported to receive a scam call.
Act Insp Drew reiterated to the community the only police recognised and advocated fundraiser for officers and their families was managed through Victoria Police Legacy.
“It’s important for anyone wishing to donate goes through that channel to do so and not at the behest of unknown people who may seek to prey upon their vulnerabilities,” he said.
Act Insp Drew said anyone who received a suspected scam call of this nature should report it to Wangaratta police on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. They are also strongly encouraged to refrain from making any donations to suspected scam callers.
“We’re doing all we can to try and prevent anyone from falling victim to what is clearly a scam,” he said.
You can donate to Victoria Police Legacy via their website: https:// www.policelegacyvic.org.au/ support-us/make-a-donation.
The search for Det Led Sen Const Thompson and Sen Const deWaart-Hottart’s alleged killer Dezi Freeman continues in the rugged bushland in the Porepunkah area.
A $1 million reward remains on offer for information leading to Freeman’s arrest, the largest ever offered in Victoria for facilitating an arrest.
Victoria Police advises those in the area to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour. Previous travel restrictions through Porepunkah were lifted last week.
Police advise that if you see Freeman, call 000 immediately but do not approach him as he was still considered heavily armed and dangerous. Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.
For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.vic.gov. au/porepunkah-shooting-andsearch-desmond-freeman-filby
A former Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) employee has avoided conviction after swindling more than $34,000 from the hospital in offending that “mystified” everyone around him.
The 49-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday in front of a packed court room to plead guilty to 17 charges of obtaining funds by deception.
He was previously facing 92 charges, but they were withdrawn in place of the 17 charges.
The court heard from November 2021 to April 2023 the defendant deceived his employer by claiming funds for the services of hospital staff for his own.
From 2018 NHW and Alexandra District Hospital (ADH) entered a services agreement for NHW radiologists to attend ADH once a week and offer their medical imaging services at the hospital.
In September 2021, the independent radiologist at the Alexandra hospital retired and the accused assumed responsibilities of submitting invoices to ADH for payment to NHW.
In the monthly invoices, dates, duties and hours of each employee of NHW, primarily three radiologists, were submitted.
But instead of the funds being directed to the hospital, the accused used his own bank account under the header of his own private medical imaging service to have the funds sent directly to him.
The invoices varied from $800 to as much as $3000, totaling $34,338 over the 16-month period.
The accused concealed information of the invoices from NHW and covered up hours committed to tasks at ADH.
In October 2022 ADH asked for a clarification on the hours billed in the invoices and the employees’ initials signed on them.
Following an internal investigation into the accused’s conduct, he resigned from his position at NHW.
He was interviewed by police in July 2024 and told a detective he couldn’t explain the offending other than it was a bookkeeping error and he reimbursed
$16,000 worth of the funds stolen once identified.
The court heard the man repayed the rest of the funds to the hospital at a later date.
The matter had been adjourned several times throughout the year, with the accused employing the help of Barrister Colin Mandy SC, who also defended convicted murderer Erin Patterson in her Supreme Court trial earlier this year.
The matter had also been adjourned in the days following the tragic death of the lead investigator of the case, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson.
Mr Mandy said the late detective summed it up best after a heart-to-heart conversation with the accused following his police interview, telling him he was a good bloke, who had made a bad decision.
Mr Mandy said a combination of deteriorating depression and anxiety, a significant workload following COVID-19 and financial pressures became too much for his client and led to a “significant lapse in judgement”.
The court heard the accused and his family had hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage done to their home due to flooding in 2018, which Mr Mandy said added to the financial stress.
Family, friends and supporters of the accused filled the body of the court, many of them Mr Mandy said were “mystified” upon finding out about the offending.
“His reputation to some extent has diminished, even among his family,” he said.
“They understand what he has done was dishonest and they are mystified by it as well.”
Many character references were read out in court which indicated the man was otherwise an exemplary member of the Wangaratta community.
“They really speak with one voice about a good man,” Mr Mandy said.
“He wants an opportunity to have the community trust in him restored and he’s doing everything he can.”
One friend said the 49-year-old was an invaluable mentor to young men in the
www.corcoranparker.com.au
football community and his “lapse in judgement” was not a reflection of who he was.
A colleague at Mansfield District Health said it was clear the 49-year-old was ashamed of his actions and deeply remorseful, and was highly respected despite the allegations hanging above him.
The court heard the medical governing body Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) were set to review the 49-year-old’s medical practicing licence following the court matters.
Mr Mandy said a non-conviction was crucial to seeing the 49-year-old back into his work which would best serve him and his community.
Police prosecutor Acting Senior Sergeant Kane Williams said police were not pushing for jail time or conviction despite the seriousness of the offending and remorse and accountability he had been shown.
“It’s clear he was a very high standing member of this community,” he said.
Magistrate Peter Dunn, who contemplated sending the matter to a higher court before accepting the jurisdiction, imposed an 18 month community corrections order without conviction.
Magistrate Dunn said the man’s proactiveness in seeking help by seeing a psychologist regularly and longstanding contribution to the community persuaded him to not give a conviction.
“I can’t repeat too many times, this is a massive breach of trust,” he said.
“The impact on all of his family and friends from his behaviour will weigh heavily on him.
“We all know health providers are in need of all the funding they can get.
“If he is ever to return to assist in the community with his skills he will have to persuade them [APRA].
“I would have every confidence he will continue to seek assistance.”
The order will include 150 hours of community and treatment for the 49-yearold’s mental health.
NHW declined to comment.
OFF THE ROAD: An 18-year-old Bandiana man had his licence suspended for six months on Sunday, just an hour after he received his licence.
P-plater’s licence gone within an hour after caught speeding
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A Bandiana teen who just received his P-plates on Sunday in Wangaratta had his licence suspended within the hour near Wooragee.
A Wodonga police spokesperson said highway patrol officers clocked a black Yamaha motorcycle at 134km/h on the Beechworth-Wodonga Road in a 100km/h zone.
“When he handed over his paper licence, the ink was still wet,” the spokesperson said.
The Bandiana teen also tested positive for drug driving and received $1272 in fines to go with his six-month licence suspension.
“A reminder that speeding and drug driving doesn’t just cost money - they cost lives,” the spokesperson said.
The 18-year-old man had just completed a ‘Ride Safe’ course in Wangaratta and only held his probationary licence for less than an hour.
“Take it slow, ride safe, and make good choices on our roads.”
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@
nemedia.com.au
A major milestone in mental health care has been reached for Wangaratta and surrounds, with the completion of a significant infrastructure upgrade to the Kerferd Intensive Care Area (ICA).
Delivered in partnership with Albury Wodonga Health (AWH), the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), and Keystone Building Group, the redevelopment marks a transformative step toward safer, more dignified and recovery-focused environments for adults receiving acute mental health support.
AWH Allied Health and Mental Health chief operating officer, Alana Jacob, said the upgrade represents a strategic investment in the future of mental health care.
“It reflects our commitment to embedding trauma-informed design into our infrastructure and ensuring our environment supports the recovery, dignity and safety of every person in our care,” she said.
“We are deeply grateful to VHBA for their support in turning this project into a reality.”
The upgraded ICA has been purpose-built to support traumainformed and gender-sensitive care, with features designed to enhance privacy, safety and therapeutic engagement.
These include:
• private bedroom ensuites for dignity and security;
• consumer-controlled swipe card access to bedrooms, promoting autonomy;
• redesigned seclusion spaces for safer, more therapeutic management;
• dedicated family meeting room to strengthen engagement; and
supporting recovery-focused practice.
The project responds directly to a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, which calls for improved gender-based safety and consumer autonomy in inpatient care settings.
The completion of the ICA upgrades was celebrated last Thursday, 11 September with representatives from the Department of Health, including deputy secretary of Mental Health and Wellbeing Pam Anders, members of the executive teams of AWH, Northeast Health Wangaratta and Gateway Health, project partners, clinical staff members and communitive representatives.
Attendees were given guided tours of the redeveloped ICA, allowing guests to experience firsthand the features designed to support safety, dignity and recovery.
Ms Anders said the investment is part of a statewide reform program aimed at modernising care
workforce and capacity, but also looking to upgrade facilities and increase the capacity facilities so we can bring mental health into a the 21st century in terms of contemporary care,” she said.
“We also know there’s significant demand on services, so it’s about transforming the existing system and and growing it as well.
“A real focus of the program is not just about the access to services, but it’s about equality.
“It’s about increasing more equitable access across the state, where there is fast growing populations and the system hasn’t kept up.
“There are different requirements that need to be met to provide the care communities need in regional areas.”
The upgraded ICA began operation this week, with clinical teams supporting consumers in a space that reflects the evolving standards of contemporary, consumer-centred mental health care.
staff were ready to use these new features in a way that enhances therapeutic relationships with consumers.
“This space has been designed with purpose, and we’re proud to be part of a service that puts consumer experience at the centre,” she said.
AWH director of nursing, mental health and wellbeing, Matthew Grace, said the inclusion of private ensuites and consumer-controlled access reflects their commitment to listening to consumer feedback and implementing best practice standards.
“It represents a significant step forward in delivering care that is safe, gender-sensitive, and recovery-focused,” he said.
“By creating a more respectful and private environment, we are reinforcing our dedication to person-centred care and ensuring that individuals feel valued, safe, and supported throughout their recovery journey.”
Springhurst residents are using less water per person per day than any other households in the Rural City of Wangaratta so far this spring.
According to North East Water (NEW) weekly water usage figures for the first two weeks of September, daily water use per person averages 199 litres in Springhurst, compared to 205 litres in Wangaratta/Glenrowan, 212.5 litres in Moyhu, 233 litres in Oxley and a whopping 311.5 litres in Whitfield.
In fact, Whitfield’s daily average water use per person is the highest across the North East region.
NEW general manager of environmental systems and operations, John Day, said the average daily usage across the region was 202 litres per person.
“While every community depends on water for daily life, the data reveals some towns are using much more than others,” he said.
“For example, towns like Whitfield recorded average daily usage of 318 litres per person (second week), while on the lower end, Walwa used just 133
NEW is reminding residents and visitors that Permanent Water Saving Rules (PWSR) are in place year-round across Victoria and include:
Always use a trigger nozzle on your hose.
Only use watering systems between 6pm and 10am.
Never hose down concrete paths or driveways.
Weekly water usage statistics are available at www.newater.com.au/usage, while people can find great tips to reduce water consumption at www.waterwise.tips.
“To put that into perspective, the difference between Whitfield and Walwa is equivalent to around six four-minute showers per day.
“This data gives us a great opportunity to reflect on our habits and consider how we can all use water more wisely.”
Mr Day said most of the region’s water storages are now in a much better position compared to earlier this winter, when water restrictions were a real possibility for several towns.
“However, the volume we’re permitted to extract from rivers this summer is lower than previous years,” he said.
“This could impact larger towns like Wodonga, Wangaratta and Yarrawonga, especially if demand increases during peak periods.
“We’re also closely monitoring Bright, where water usage remains high and the storage is low.
“If consumption doesn’t decrease there, we may need to introduce staged water restrictions there as early as December.”
Weekly water usage statistics are available at www.newater. com.au/usage, while people can find great tips to reduce water consumption at www.waterwise. tips.
BY GRACE FREDSBERG gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au
Father’s Day this year was extra special for Wangaratta dad Dan Exintaris as he celebrated the occasion with his premature one-year-old son Avery, whose earliest days were supported by Life’s Little Treasures Foundation (LLTF).
One of Australia’s leading support organisations for parents of sick and premature children, LLTF will be commemorating their 20th anniversary this year with their Mighty Trek Challenge as part of the annual Walk for Prems event.
Throughout October, they’ll be travelling 900km and pushing a NICU incubator through 20 selected locations from Sydney to Melbourne.
Dan and his wife Fairlie Exintaris will be partnering with the foundation during their stop to Norm Minns Oval, Wangaratta on Thursday, 16 October, with the couple to assist in pushing the NICU incubator.
Dan and Fairlie’s first steps into parenthood were far from their expectations; after infertility struggles, Fairlie conceived through IVF in 2020 and later gave birth to their daughter Sutton at 35+3 weeks, weighing just 1650g.
Sutton spent three weeks in special care, requiring low-flow oxygen due to her premature arrival, and this experience was very isolating and difficult to navigate, especially during the peak of the pandemic.
They acquired the support of LLTF through a family member’s recommendation, and their Precious Prems Pack provided much-needed
guidance, support and comfort during this time.
“We were up in Brisbane at the time and received a pack from Life’s Little Treasures but we didn’t know much about (the organisation) at the time,” Dan said.
Fairlie delivered their son Avery at just 25 weeks old after being transported to Melbourne due to ruptured membranes and no fluid being detected in a 23-week scan.
Only weighing 899g, Avery proved as resilient as his older sister, being welcomed home in January this year after spending 96 days in hospital.
As parents from regional Victoria, the experience was nothing short of tough, being away from home, unable to work and apart from their daughter Sutton.
“I think they (LLTF) are looking at how best to support regional families,” Dan said.
“It was a bit different for us - I grew up in Brisbane my whole life so our first child lived in the city, it was a lot easier.
“But being remote/regional now and going to Melbourne, having to stay in Melbourne for three months, it was a different time all together.”
Support from Ronald McDonald House and LLTF through care packs, community and connection helped them navigate through this difficult time.
“(LLTF) were pretty good, giving us all sorts of things like a morning tea at the hospital, a gift voucher to spend, lots of little things over the time we were there,” Dan said.
“They’re always someone you can turn to... offering whatever they can to support parents in need.”
He urged the community to get behind the cause whether through participating in the walk or making a
With people are preparing their property for fire season, emergency services are urging landowners to register their burn-offs online through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
Spring is a common time for landowners to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions to conduct burning off activities, however up to 50 per cent aren’t registering their burn-offs online, with many unnecessarily waiting on hold to
register over the phone.
Triple Zero Victoria chief operating officer, Nicole Ashworth, said the quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/ notify.
donation toward funding incubators, which aren’t cheap but save lives.
“Someone will always be in need,” Dan said,
“It’d be good to get the community behind this because it’s something not a lot of people know about.”
Dan and Fairlie are running a personal fundraiser with a goal of raising $1000 which you can donate to at walk-for-prems-2025. raiselysite.com/t/avery-sutton-exintaris.
To register and for more information on the various options available, visit themightytrek.org.au.
burn-offs on the CFA website so the public can see where a burn-off is taking place, preventing needless calls to Triple Zero (000),” he said.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said by registering your burn-off, it allows emergency services to verify the fire is not an emergency before unneces-
“Over the past year, CFA responded to nearly 900 escaped burn-offs, which utilised around 19,000 hours of our volunteers’ time.
“Please don’t leave your burn-off unattended and only
The website allows you to notify emergency services of your burn-off, and also check and apply for a permit, if necessary.
However, if your burn is taking place within the next two hours, you must register your burn via the phone line on 1800 668 511.
For more information about burning off safely, visit www. cfa.vic.gov.au/burn-off.
Before you register your burn-off make sure you:
• Follow regulations or laws by CFA and local council.
• Notify your neighbours if the burn will generate fire and smoke.
• Check the weather forecast for the day of the activity and a few days afterward.
• Postpone your activity if high fire risk conditions develop.
• Establish a gap in vegetation or fire break of no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.
• Have enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively.
• Never leave a burn-off unattended.
By ANITA MCPHERSON
SCHOOLS and community groups are invited to help turn 100 guitars created by the Wangaratta Men’s Shed into canvases ready for decoration during the 2025 Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
Ten years ago, members of the Wangaratta Men’s Shed group were vital contributors to the Diddley Bow project - a fun and highly successful community engagement activity created for the festival by instrument maker Luke Davies and art teacher David Godkin.
This year, the Wangaratta Men’s Shed are at it again, creating 100 guitars for a new project paying tribute to the great Blues singer and guitarist BB King, who would have turned 100 this month.
The 100 guitars are in the shape of BB King’s black Gibson guitar he called Lucille, which will be covered by a layer of paper mache, painted black and made available at the commu-
nity stage area over the festival weekend for people to decorate as part of an arts activity, with guidance from volunteers.
This year’s project is once again being led by Mr Godkin, who has conducted a number of entertaining engagement projects for the festival.
He said it should be a lot of fun, and a great way to learn about the history and culture of Blues music and its influence on the music of today.
“It’s a fun way to learn about BB King - one of the greats of Blues music - with the reverse side of the guitar to have a photo and some information about him,” Mr Godkin said.
“I was very fortunate to see him and his band perform in Melbourne’s Festival Hall about 1990 and it was memorable - his band absolutely rocked.”
Any schools or community groups interested in getting involved in the 100 GUITARS project are encouraged to contact Mr Godkin on 0439 040 868 or via wangjazzblues.com.au.
A Benalla man has admitted to his role in a home burglary of a couple’s ute after several warrants were issued for his arrest for avoiding authorities and the courts.
The 25-year-old appeared from the custody box at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week seeking bail, after pleading guilty to aggravated burglary of a car and assault.
The court heard in the early hours of 1 May last year, the man, who was living in Wangaratta at the
time, broke into an elderly couple’s Benalla home as they were sleeping, took the keys of their white Isuzu utility and drove off in it.
It is alleged there were three other co-accused during the offending and the 25-year-old was unlicenced at the time of driving.
The accused drove to Wangaratta and the car was found by police at Bunnings Warehouse around 8am with four occupants.
Detectives went to search a property frequented by
the accused in Wangaratta at 12:30pm, finding the stolen utility affixed with stolen number plates. Three of the accused would attempt to flee, jumping the fence at the back of the property.
A fourth alleged cooffender was arrested inside the address.
The 25-year-old would later be charged with the offending on 3 July last year after a search of this home.
He also pleaded guilty to assault of his neighbour, an
elderly woman, hitting her in the head with a piece of plywood.
The court heard the man had been in and out of custody numerous times since the offending due to several warrants being issued for his non-appearances in court.
Giving evidence, Senior Constable Eli Holland-Dean said the 25-year-old actively avoided police on multiple arrests, giving a false name on one occasion and attempting to hide in a pile of clothes on another.
“The accused has shown a complete disregard to conditions while on bail,” Sen Const Holland-Dean said. The man was arrested on Saturday on Cowan Street in Benalla.
The court heard the 25-year-old was a daily user of cannabis and took methylamphetamine regularly.
Magistrate Megan Casey remanded the man in custody for a community corrections order assessment to be completed before reappearing at court today.
A Caring and Ageing Well Festival will be held as part of 2025 Wangaratta Seniors Festival at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Wednesday, 15 October from 10am to 1pm.
Presented by the Rural City of Wangaratta and Open Door Neighbourhood House, the free event celebrates older adults and carers, with information available from local services who can provide tips for healthy ageing, support for carers plus fun activities for community connection.
All are welcome, with no bookings required.
The Ovens and Murray grand final is one of the major sporting events in the North East and this year it is dominated by Wangaratta clubs
It’s been 48 years since the two clubs met in a senior football decider so this will become another one for the history books, and no doubt Kevin Hill’s blog.
Given the level of competition needed to stay in the race against the Albury/Wodonga clubs, it’s a testament to everyone involved.
From the footballers and netballers doing battle, and those who volunteer at the canteen, to the parents who drive their kids to practice each week and the teenagers who sacrifice their weekends for the game, and the sponsors and members, the involvement is community wide.
Forget the rivalry between the clubs, Sunday isn’t just about Magpies or Rovers, the rural city as a whole has skin in the game.
In a regional area such as ours, it’s generally impossible to be connected through a single thread, but everywhere you look in those taking part this weekend there are connections, from former schoolmates competing against each other, to the next generation of footballers and netballers following in their parents’ footsteps, some even switching allegiances.
The cross pollination between the Rovers and the Magpies today highlights how those old rivalries can change, even if they will never disappear totally during winter.
And while we are all chuffed to see Wangaratta in the race, it is such a pity that our town won’t economically benefit more from the sheer number of people who will make their way to Lavington Sports Ground.
Maybe one day.
Facebook users this week commented on GoulburnMurray Water’s concern over a lead contamination risk from solar panels at the proposed Meadow Creek Solar Farm.
Neil John Maclean: Idiots !
Leslie Matthews: 0.1% of the total weight of a solar panel might contain lead. there’s more lead leaching from the farmer’s tractor...
Dave Allen: Leslie Mat-
thews so .1%per panel x how many solar panels in the paddock? Adds up a little quick.
Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen stick to crayons Dave Dave Allen: Leslie Matthews standard tractor battery has roughly 8.7kg of lead. Industrial solar panels contain 12-15g. So doing maths, you only need a little over 1300 panels per battery per paddock.
Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen Interesting arithmetic
Having recently spent many hours at Northeast Health Wangaratta ICU, I was surprised to learn that staff on placement during their training, often a long way from family support and needing to spend money to enable their further training, are not remunerated for their enormous level of dedication.
Had they taken on any apprenticeship in a different field they would have been paid.
Had they decided not to do anything productive at all upon leaving school they would have been supported by our generous Centrelink system.
Dr Helen Haines our local federal member is making efforts in parliament to redress this disgraceful situation and ensure ‘A fair day’s pay’ for nurses, and I welcome that.
Let’s support her endeavors however we can.
The ‘Fair Work Commission’ surely needs to be involved, because this is clearly far from fair.
but there you go. I must say 12 grams sounds more than 0.1% though...
Dave Allen: Leslie Matthews yeh, purple crayons gets the old think tank going Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen Compared to open cut coal mining, fracking or even nuclear solar still presents as the cleanest option but why let facts get in the way, ideology wins out every time... Gustov Balart: The science is in - GMW is out...
John Barnard: Surprised it got this far before the cor rupt Labor government told them to pull their heads in Facebook users this week also commented on council plans to respond to a predicted change in households over the next decade in the city.
Nathan Andrew: Mega rates $$$$$
Adam Anderson: Sweet, are we getting a 5th bin? Can’t wait.... Have your say Like the
Peter Martin, Wangaratta
Whether it was two or three generations of the Edwards family who attended a march for Australia (Wangaratta Chronicle letters, Friday, 5 September) it doesn’t matter.
The blast from Georgina Rea (Wangaratta Chronicle letters, Wednesday, 10 September) for expressing their democratic right was uncalled for.
Dot Fox, Wangaratta
The Emergency Leaders for Climate Action say this week’s National Climate Risk Assessment gives a confronting but not surprising picture of the escalating risks climate change poses to Australians.
The National Adaptation Plan intends to lay the groundwork for preparing our communities, business and emergency services for these risks.
The National Climate Risk Assessment predicts dangerous fire weather days will happen more often, with longer fire seasons and the potential for megafires in southern and eastern parts of the nation - at least until mid-century, when forested areas may start to change into grasslands.
TRUE COLOURS: Damien Lappin from Sport North East with Matt Alferi, Nakita Walsh and Victor Austin, all geared up in their footy colours for the VMCH School Holiday Program sports day on Wednesday, 24 September. To be led by the Sport North East team, the day celebrates the fact that AFL grand final weekend is just around the corner, with participants encouraged to wear the colours of their favourite sports teams, and get involved in a day full of energy, fun and connection. The event will feature a variety of sports and games designed to be inclusive and engaging for everyone, followed by a barbecue lunch. For more information, phone Bella on 0419 530 920.
The world is approaching the point of no return on climate action.
Only meaningful cuts to climate pollution this decade can address the worst climate risks outlined in this national report.
At three degrees of warming, sea-levels would rise by one-metre, leading to 18-times more coastal flooding and up to three million Australians in coastal communities facing a high or very high risk of flooding, erosion, and inundation by 2090.
This risk assessment demonstrates how urgently we need to slash climate pollution.
A strong target, as close to net zero as possible, by 2035 is critical to help protect Australians and our economy from worsening climate disasters in the future.
Australian communities also need urgent investment to adapt and prepare for supercharged weather events coming at them over and over again.
The assessment shows our emergency responders will face a greater physical and mental health burden from responding to more frequent and potentially simultaneous disasters.
Our emergency workers, our volunteers and our communities need to be protected from the worst of the escalating dangers.
We know that every dollar spent on climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction saves between $2 and $11 in avoided recovery costs.
This can’t just be another report that ministers read over a coffee and then try to forget about.
The details are too confronting.
Australians expect a strong national plan to act on this climate emergency, not a timid climate target.
Greg Mullins,
former Commissioner of Fire & Rescue NSW
WE
Facebook users this week commented on Old Faithfulls owners plans to branch out after they lodged an application to open another cafe, restaurant and bar establishment in Wangaratta’s west end.
Melanie Hellebrand: That mouldy rundown building with no parking, all the neighbours did were complain to council about car parking and noise, It’s definitely not the right location if they want to keep their standards high.
Kirsty Hawkins: We definitely need another cafe this side of town
David Thayer: How does old Faithfulls afford models to be in there articles. WOW
Have your say
Rhonda Wiedemann: Wonderful news for our young uns and young at heart!!
Bill Liam: By the time council look at it it’ll be up and running in 15 years
Pete Rourke: Hop, skip and a jump
Cara Stamp: David Hale came to town Bec Rowe: Yes please!
Lisa Bishop: Hell yes guys!!!
Georgia Mahoney: Lisa Bishop it’s a yes from me
Hugh Mags: Cue the whingers because it’s going to be 600m from a school
Ashleigh Rose: Hugh Mags circle of life up near the old country tavern, beer cemetary day care
Andrew Flukie: Yes Please!!
This time last week, , two of our Co-Design crew joined Andy Bell to present the draft Youth Strategy to our Councillors and Corporate Management Team (CMT). Andy, from Youth Gurus , was brought on as a consultant to help shape the strategy—and the first thing he asked for was a group of passionate young people to co-design it alongside him. After all, young people know young people best!
There were workshops and meetings, and they created a census to gather data, and finally, Sept 8th, the draft was presented! Well done team. You should be proud of everything! #wangyouth #youthstrategy
with MANDIE Hello Petals
At Hello Petals in Wangaratta, the doors are always open. For owner Mandie that detail mattered when she chose her shopfront. She wanted a space people would not hesitate to enter, a space were all community is welcome.
Mandie’s journey to floristry wasn’t straightforward. After 12 years of nursing, she found herself drained during the pandemic, watching families unable to visit their loved ones in aged care.
“I just wasn’t finding happiness in it anymore,” she says. Taking leave, she worked in a florist shop, discovered a new skill, and realised an old passion.
“As a kid, I always wanted to be a shopkeeper. I used to imagine sweeping the shopfront and keeping it beautiful,” she says.
Flowers, she admits, are a luxury, but they can also be meaningful. A bouquet marks a new baby’s arrival, a birthday, or the difficult farewell of a funeral. For her, the privilege of creating those tributes feels like a continuation of the care she once gave as a nurse.
Shop Local:
I love browsing at Sorella - Beth always has something a little bit different, and she’s been such a support to me.
Eat Local: For coffee, I can’t go past TJ’s, Bread & Butter, or Clyde’s. Each has its own vibe and they all do it so well.
Play Local: When it’s time to go out, I enjoy Watermarc - the food is beautiful and the cocktails are amazing.
On the counter during our chat sat a striking floral arrangement threaded with a Collingwood scarf. She explained it was for her father’s best friend, who had been a cleaner at the local secondary school. He was, she said, a no-fuss kind of man, and the scarf was a tribute to his lifelong support of Collingwood.
Your yellow bin is now for paper, cardboard, metal and hard plastics only. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge. Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin
In gestures like these, flowers become stories of people and community.
Supplying flowers locally is the majority of Mandie’s business and many of her arrangements are made with natives and foliage grown here in the North East.
“We’ve got a lady who grows the most beautiful zinnias and ranunculus around Christmas, and they fly out the door,” she says with a smile. Varieties of gum and other greenery often come from local gardens, brought in by people who want to support the shop.
“We never turn growers away. If they’ve taken the time to pick something, I’ll buy it. It’s locals supporting locals,” she says.
While it might be easier to grab a bunch at the supermarket or online, she says it’s not quite the same as a face-to-face purchase. When asked what makes the difference, she talks about people that are connected to the shop.
“A young artist who sees her cards for sale on the shelf, a grower who drops off gum leaves from their garden, or kids pooling their coins to buy something special,” says Mandie.
For her, those connections are what keep small towns alive. And when asked what locals can do to help, her answer is simple.
“Every time someone buys here, it means we can employ local women, support community events, and keep our doors open. Without locals, we wouldn’t be here,” says Mandie.
MORE THAN A BUSINESS: For Mandie from Hello Petals, working as a florist is about connecting with people and using flowers to express their thoughts and feelings.
A Myrtleford man who caused thousands of dollars in damage to his father’s home is set to be released after nearly two months in custody.
The 39-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday from a custody link from Melbourne Assessment Prison after being assessed for a community corrections order.
Magistrate Megan Casey is to sentence the defendant today.
He has pleaded guilty to trash-
ing his father’s home on numerous occasions from March to July this year, progressing in seriousness on each incident.
In July this year he was found to have destroyed the home and caused more than $50,000 worth of damage.
All the windows at the property were smashed, plaster was ripped off walls and a fire was lit in the living room on a pile of destroyed furniture.
He was arrested following the
incident and has been in custody since.
Just a week prior he was kicked out of the home by his father for doing around $10,000 worth of damage to the property.
He was also guilty of being in possession of small amounts of methylamphetamine and cannabis on numerous occasions, often when riding his bike without a helmet around Myrtleford.
In court on Monday, the man ad-
mitted to further offending during the same week of his most serious property damage incidents.
On 19 July he left two nurses in a Myrtleford hospital emergency department in fear after being told to leave and going on an aggressive outburst at the hospital.
He walked out to a nearby car park as police arrived, throwing a plastic bottle near a person and kicking the front and rear doors of a parked car.
When arrested he said he was heavily intoxicated and was bitten by a dog.
The court heard the results of the man’s psychology assessments indicated further testing and assessments may be necessary before he could be released.
A previous psychology report heard in court diagnosed the man with major depression, reduced intellect, chronic anxiety, PTSD and alcohol and drug abuse.
Most would consider a 30-day interstate trek from Melbourne all the way to the Sunshine Coast to be one of the most challenging journeys that one could ever take on; but it’s one that Melbourne dad Trent Robertson is willing to embark on in support of a worthy cause.
BY GRACE FREDSBERG gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au
Dropping in at Glenrowan Primary School on Thursday, 4 September, Trent told students that he would be running 10 marathons and cycling 1200km in just 30 days as part of his challenge ‘Noosa for Neuro’.
He’s on a mission to raise vital funds for Neuroblastoma Australia during SeptemberChildhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that tragically takes the lives of children under five more than any other cancer.
The aggressive type bears only a 50 per cent average fiveyear survival rate, and currently, one-third of neuroblastoma survivors suffer adverse side effects from the toxicity of their treatment.
So far, Trent has raised well over 50 per cent of his $100,000 goal and hopes the support he continues to garner will help fund safer, more effective treatments for this disease; especially since the cause hits close to home for him.
He said it was seven-yearold Oli, a family friend of the Robertsons, who was the driving force behind his dedication.
“Watching Oli’s journey
opened my eyes to how cruel childhood cancer is and how desperately more support and research is needed so that no other child has to go through what Oli endured,” Trent said.
“As a dad with young kids, I felt a strong urge to do something.
“If putting myself through this challenge helps even one family, then it’s worth every step.”
Trent’s initiative took more than just getting out on the road, having dedicated the past two years to intensive training in preparation for what would be both his biggest physical and emotional challenge yet.
“It’s been an awesome first four days,” he told the Wangaratta Chronicle.
“I thought I’d reach out to a local school if I was going to stop in a town like this, bringing along a school for the ride.
“Hopefully they take something out of it and might learn a few life lessons.”
Trent said he travels for about four to five hours each day, dedicating the remainder of the day to recovery and rest.
You can follow Trent along on his journey to Noosa on his instagram: instagram. com/rockingrobbo, or visit his website noosa-for-neuro. raiselysite.com/ to make a donation.
CHALLENGE UNDERWAY: avelling from
for
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
A simple idea of a barbeque lunch gathering became much more at the Wangaratta Police Station last week as retired police veterans wrapped their arms around the local policing family.
More than 70 members of Police Veterans’ Victoria (PVV) came to the station to stand side-by-side with police members, sharing food and swapping stories under a bright and sunny Wangaratta day.
It came as a symbol of support as the community continues to come to grips with the loss of Wangaratta stationed officers Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart.
The officers were shot dead near Porepunkah on Tuesday, 26 August as part of a 10-member team executing a search warrant.
A third officer was shot and continued to recover at home.
Many former Wangaratta police members attended the barbeque along with former police officers from right across the state.
PVV chief executive officer Debra Richardson was at the station on Thursday, and she said it was clear the local community was still carrying a heavy loss in their hearts.
“Their foyer still has two shrines overflowing with flowers; their cupboards were already filled with food dropped off by their community; there were signs acknowledging the heroes on the way into town… but at the same time, their grief is still palpable,” she said.
“It wasn’t really about a barbeque, it was about a gathering to support each other, and I think that mattered.”
SUPPORT GOES ON: Police Veterans Victoria members paid a visit to the Wangaratta Police
on Thursday and had a special barbeque lunch to stand with local members as the
of fallen officers in Porepunkah.
Senior Sergeant and Wangaratta Police Station Commander Mick Mannix said it was a real thrill for the local force to have decades of police experience present at the station.
“For them to take time out of their day and to come at a time like this was so appreciated,” he said.
“It’s good to hear their experience back in the day and how it compares to today, the experience that was in the room was just something to behold.
“The underlying principles of policing are still very much the same.
“I love the history of it and I love the camaraderie of it.”
Snr Sgt Mannix said some of the veterans’ service stretched back as far as 50 years and it was great for the junior members of the force to take in their expertise and experience.
He said one of the attendees was also one of the lead investigators in the 1979 murder of Detective Senior Constable Rocky Lane near
Swan Hill, which led to the apprehension of David Chapman.
The circumstances were also close to many of the retired officers’ hearts, having served with Det Led Sen Const Thompson themselves.
“Some of this may have been triggering for them but they still made the effort to show their support, how do you thank them for that,” Snr Sgt Mannix said.
“We’ll never forget the service these people made for our community.”
Ms Richardson said the raw feeling of grief and shock continued to be felt across generations of the Blue family.
“My community all wanted to pull on a uniform last week and help,” she said.
“We are walking this dreadful journey with them.
“In the face of real adversity also comes the human spirit, and the chance to share, to remember and to support each other.
“It wasn’t the food that mattered most yesterday.
“It was being together.”
Over the weekend hundreds of serving and retired police embarked on the Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance in a powerful display to honour their fallen colleagues.
The ride which raises money for Victoria Police Legacy, saw riders embark on an 850km journey to the National Police Memorial in Canberra.
A special legacy baton presented by Acting Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett contained the named of Det Led Sen Const Thompson and Sen Const de Waart-Hottart.
A ceremony was held at the Victoria Police Memorial on St Kilda Road before riders departed under police escort.
Some 2000 riders from police forces across Australia joined the riders as they arrived in Canberra on Saturday.
Lovers of history writing will be excited to know that bestselling author Peter FitzSimons will be in Wangaratta next month.
The acclaimed historian will be at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre’s Memorial Hall on Thursday, 30 October from 6pm, in an event staged by Wangaratta Library and Booktique.
Mr FitzSimons will share insights into his latest work, ‘The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop’, a gripping tribute to one of Australia’s greatest war heroes.
Discover the extraordinary story of Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop: surgeon, soldier, and saviour of thousands of POWs on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway during World War 2. Through Mr FitzSimons’ vivid storytelling, Weary’s legacy of courage, compassion and resilience comes to life.
Tickets are $5 each, and can be secured via https://events. humanitix.com/meet-the-author-peter-fitzsimons-cr7h5glh
Myrrhee Primary School will hold an open morning on Friday, 17 October from 10am to 11am, with all year levels invited.
Families can visit the school and see the facilities, or they can contact the school to organise a tour or access an enrolment application at myrrheeps.vic.edu.au.
Tribute to the Eras
Taylor: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music starring New Zealand singersongwriter and recording artist, Josette, will play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 19 September at 7pm.
The all-ages concert will provide an opportunity for fans to get together with their fellow “Swifties”, celebrate their musical hero and be part of a fun and uplifting music experience, with Josette supported by an international cast of musicians and dancers.
Featuring over 20 renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, You Belong With Me, Love Story and more, tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.
A new exhibition by Wandiligongbased artist Mat Vaughan called There there, will open in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Friday, 19 September.
Vaughan’s latest series of large-scale paintings delves into the creative process, examining how the act of making art influences both the artist and the viewer, reflecting on the enigmatic and sometimes elusive moment of completion.
A free opening celebration and artist talk will be held at 5pm, with all welcome and RSVP appreciated for catering purposes to wangarattaartgallery.com.au/Programs/Opening-ArtistTalk-There-there-Mat-Vaughan.
The next Moyhu Lions country market will be held at the Moyhu Lions Park in Moyhu on Saturday, 20 September from 8am to 12pm.
Browse a wide range of stalls with local produce, arts and crafts, giftware, spring seedlings and much more, enjoy a Lions breakfast and a freshly brewed coffee, and enter the monthly raffle, with the chance to win a $100 fuel voucher, drawn at 10.45am.
Local artists Melissa Johns and Linda D’Agostino are once again joining creative forces for their seventh combined exhibition titled The Sweet Life – La Dolce Vita.
The show celebrates the beauty of Italy’s landscapes alongside playful, sustainable art, offering visitors a colourful and uplifting experience.
Linda D’Agostino presents a new series of works inspired by a recent family holiday to Italy.
Her paintings reflect the breath-
taking scenery of Cinque Terre, the romance of Venice, the tranquil charm of the Lakes District, and the rolling hills of Tuscany.
Each piece captures the light, colour and atmosphere of the places that have long stirred the imagination of travellers and artists alike.
Melissa Johns continues her exploration of whimsical recycled art, reimagining discarded materials into vibrant and imaginative creations.
With a focus on sustainability and storytelling, her works transform everyday objects into delightful pieces that spark curiosity and joy.
Together, the exhibition brings contrasting yet complementary styles into harmony - D’Agostino’s sweeping landscapes evoke a sense of wonder and escape, while Johns’ inventive recycled works remind us of the magic to be found in reinvention.
The Sweet Life – La Dolce Vita
invites the community to slow down, savour the moment, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.
See it at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm, until 29 September. An opening celebration will be held on Saturday, 20 September from 11am until 2pm with all welcome to attend.
The Blues Guitar Roadshow ensemble spectacular will roll into Wangaratta this weekend for a show at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 20 September at 8pm. It has become one of the hottest tickets in the Australian blues scene, with sold-out shows and standing ovations across the country.
The roadshow is not a cover band or a tribute band, but a group of old-school, passionate musicians playing great music. It brings together the best performers of the Aussie blues scene and puts them in front of both blues fans and mainstream “theatre” audiences, playing out like an old-time blues review, or variety show.
Music Victoria Hall of Famer
Andrea Marr emcees the show, with each artist in their own headline spot.
The BGR House band backs each artist for their individual set, and the show builds to the “All-Star Jam” where everyone hits the stage together and the audience can’t stay in their seats.
Among the lineup are Aussie blues legends, â€Lloyd Spiegel, Geoff Achison, Wilbur Wilde, The
McNaMarr Project (Andrea Marr/ John McNamara), Corey Legge, Dale Alison and Shane Gilbert. It’s live music at its very best; the artists all inspiring each other to reach new heights, with the all-star jam at the conclusion simply unforgettable. Described as being like four days of Byron Bay BluesFest rolled into one night, get your tickets now at wpacc.com.au.
The region’s premier pop culture convention, GeekCon, will return to the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street on Saturday, 20 September from 2pm to 5.30pm.
Funded by the Engage program through the State Government and supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, GeekCon 2025 offers an afternoon of creativity and community spirit for the seasoned cosplayer, tabletop adventurer, robotics enthusiast, or simply fans of all things geeky.
GeekCon will have a cosplay competition, gaming zone, Dungeons & Dragons adventures, LARP Battles, stalls and vendors and more, and is open to all ages with entry free and no registration required.
An event to celebrate 20 years of friendship between the three friendship groups located in the North East Victorian region and communities in Timor-Leste, will be held at the Uniting Church Hall in Wangaratta on Saturday, 20 September from 6pm to 9pm.
There will be live music with the Mystic Trio band, video links to Timor-Leste, a raffle and other entertainment, with tea and coffee provided (BYO grazing platter and drinks).
Tickets are $25 per person available at trybooking.com/DEBZT.
Wang Repair Cafe have a special event this Sunday repairing toys and bikes to help get them back into working order, at the Wangaratta Community Market in Mason Street from 8am until 12pm.
They will also be fixing any other items people bring along, including garden tools, small furniture, textiles, electronics and electrical appliances, with more information available by visiting them on Facebook.
Friends and family of King Valley artists Cara Dosser and Alex Ryan spent their Thursday evening browsing the pair’s latest exhibition at the Art Gallery on Ovens two weeks ago.
The exhibition, named ‘Duck House’ after the artists’ home and studio, featured a large array of works informed by the Australian landscape, something both artists resonate with having grown up on farms and now living on a rural property.
Coupled with delicious cheese platters, good wine and lots of mingling, attendees certainly had a lovely night.
‘Duck House’ was on show until Monday, 15 September, but there are plenty of other upcoming exhibitions at the Art Gallery on Ovens which may pique your interest.
Visit https://www.artgalleryonovens.com/exhibitions for more information.
KINSHIP: Ilona Brown (Cara’s sister) and partner John Brown with John Ryan (Alex’s dad).
TALES FROM A LIFE: Rod Halsted’s visit to the Wangaratta Library will see him discuss his recently-released book, ‘Take My Advice, I’m Not Using It’.
Albury author Rod Halsted will be at the Wangaratta Library on Thursday, 2 October to discuss his book, ‘Take My Advice, I’m Not Using It’.
PHOTOS: Grace Fredsberg
Friday, 18 September 2015
By CAITLIN SARTORI
Two sisters, two teams, one grand final.
For Monique and Simone Gannon, tomorrow’s Ovens and King B grade grand final will have much more on the line than a premiership trophy.
Simone is set to line up in defence for King Valley, while at the other end of the court, older sister Monique is likely to take the court in wing defence for Glenrowan.
It is the first time both Monique and Simone will take the court in a grand final and the latter joked the
10 years ago 10 years ago
family wouldn’t know who to barrack for with ties to both clubs.
Their dad, John Gannon, coached Glenrowan in the early 2000s and 2012 while he spent a year coaching King Valley’s senior side in 2007.
The duo started playing netball in primary school and agreed they had fond memories as youngsters
spending Saturdays watching Wangaratta Magpies football when John coached there.
“I’m very happy but there’s definitely mixed emotions, we both want to win but it’ll be devastating for the one who loses,” Simone said.
“Nique first got me playing in the Ovens King when she was at Rutherglen, we both played there together.”
Monique played netball at Glenrowan from 1997 to ’00 and joined Simone and John at King Valley in 2007.
Simone has spent the past two years with the Roos while Monique joined the Kelly Tigers for the last eight games of the home and away season
after having baby girl Reese earlier in the year.
Making the day even bigger, Monique’s partner Chris Sussyer will line up in Glenrowan’s senior grand final.
While the Roos are arguably favourite heading into the match after finishing top of the ladder, the Kelly Tigers will go in underdogs after effectively coming from outside of the top six in the last round to initially secure a finals spot.
And it hasn’t stopped the duo trying to suss out opposing tactics in the lead up with a friendly family rivalry thrown into the mix.
An evening presented in collaboration with Booktique, the author talk will run from 6pm at the Docker Street library. Rod will be in conversation with Geoff Romero about his wild life - from drugs to jail to pubs, nickel mining and patisserie management - before building a million-dollar pressure-washing business 25 years ago.
This is the laugh-out-loud story of Rod’s rollercoaster life from penthouse to the slammer, and how he finally found his way back to sanity.
To book your place, visit https://events.humanitix.com/ meet-the-author-rod-halsted
By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS
In keeping a local nature diary and coming up with subjects for this column, it’s a bit hard to go past the arrival of our spring migratory birds at the moment.
We have featured a few of these in recent weeks and are likely to continue on this theme as the candidates keep rolling in.
This week, we have noticed the arrival of Shining Bronzecuckoos in our region.
This species occurs in eastern Australia and further afield into Papua New Guinea, so some of our recent arrivals might have travelled extraordinary distances to get here.
Most years, they start to arrive in August but it is not until September and early October that we see our biggest numbers.
Their occurrence in any given year varies; in some years they are particularly common yet in others they are scarce, perhaps choosing to visit a completely different region.
Upon their arrival, they give their very distinctive and at times monotonous calls, which is often the best way to locate them, as they are
typically quite shy and rather hard to see.
As the breeding season approaches, males can sing persistently from a favourite perch, day and night, especially on moonlit nights.
Their call is a plaintive, mournful whistle, similar to their relative the Horsfield’s Bronze-cuckoos, yet there are key differences between the two that allow them to be readily identified.
The call of the Horsfield’s Bronze-cuckoo is a descending ‘tseeeeuw, tseeeeuw’ repeated many times, but they also give a high-pitched chirruping call as well.
The main call of the Shining Bronze-cuckoo is a series of high-pitched whistled notes that rise (as opposed to fall) in sequence before ending with a descending note.
As with all cuckoos, bronzecuckoos are insect eaters and they feed primarily feed on hairy caterpillars gleaned from the ground, from grasses and herbs, and shrub and tree foliage.
It is characteristic behaviour of cuckoos to patiently sit and wait while scanning nearby vegetation for any signs of caterpillar activity.
Upon seeing a prey item, they pounce on it from above and immediately bash it on the ground, a nearby rock or branch, to kill the caterpillar quickly before potentially being stung (by species species such as Cup Moth Caterpillars).
Again, like all cuckoos, Shining Bronze-cuckoos are nest parasites relying on a host species to rear their young.
They select small insecteating bird species as their hosts, typically those that build dome-shaped nests such as fairy-wrens, thornbills and gerygones, but also some open cup-shaped nesters as well, such as robins and honeyeaters.
The cuckoo lays its egg in the nest and removes one of the host’s eggs.
The cuckoo’s egg is the first to hatch, after which it instinctively forces the other eggs and chicks out of the nest.
The cuckoo chick then receives the sole attention and care of its ‘foster parents’ until it leaves the nest and for a period thereafter until it is independent.
Residents at St John’s Wangaratta have recently enjoyed being part of an intergenerational program with students from Greta Valley Primary School.
Over their weeks together, the residents and students have done everything from playing games and tackling electronics challenges to having fun with puppies, and enjoying a lunch of fish and chips.
• Phyllis Varcoe and Tom Lambert work together.
Contemporary jewellery and small sculptures by Jan Donaldson are currently featured in the Benalla Art Gallery shop, in an exhibition titled Objects of Being.
The exhibition explores identity through artifacts.
Using form, image, and symbol, the works investigate the intimate and often uncanny relationship between object and self.
Drawing on the theatricality of dolls, puppetry and masks, the works engage with beauty, illusion and the human condition.
The artist explains her work is inspired by “the relationships between artifacts and identity, and explores objects intimately linked
to identity… alluding to the drama and folly of human existence.”
Each piece is a narrative, blending the emotional with the symbolic to offer a compelling reflection on identity, desire and the roles we inhabit.
Jan Donaldson’s studio practice is based in Shepparton.
She studied at RMIT University in Melbourne and holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Fine Art, a Master of Art (Fine Art) Degree, and a Diploma of Fine Art in Gold and Silversmithing.
Jan exhibits regularly and her work ranges in scale from jewellery to large sculptural works.
She is known for her use of the
figure and text, as well as for her research into the relationships between objects and identity. Jan has been lecturing for over 30 years in regional Victoria and Melbourne, is a former president of the Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group of Australia (JMGA) Vic and past editor of Lemel Magazine, the quarterly journal of the JMGA. She has been an artist in residence and workshop instructor at numerous schools, universities, community groups, arts organizations and galleries, and is a former gallery director with extensive experience working on community arts projects.
Benalla Art Gallery director, Eric
Nash, said Jan Donaldson’s practice is prolific, and deeply personal with a universal resonance.
“It’s a privilege to display these works at Benalla Art Gallery,” he said.
Jan Donaldson: Objects of Being continues until 28 September with all works available to purchase.
STATE OF BEING: The exhibition includes pieces such as Jan DONALDSON, The Poetry of Voice I, Brooch Cast pewter, Brass, 925 Silver, 18ct Gold, 23ct Gold Leaf, Turquoise, Paua Shell, Cotton, Linen fabric, Felt, Found objects
– vintage tin, recycled ivory bead, brass
Comedian Kitty Flanagan has added a third date to her tour visiting the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in November.
The award-winning star of Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? will be performing her new stand-up show which asks all the big questions, like were we smarter before social media, and has your call ever been used for training purposes?
While the first show on Wednesday, 5 November has sold out, limited seats are available for Thursday, 6 November, with a new show added on Friday, 7 November at 8pm, and tickets are available from the box office or by visiting wpacc.com.au.
Forget about Christmas - the most wonderful time of the year is right now.
After months and months of hard work, heartbreak, jubilant triumph, blood, sweat and tears, it’s finally here – it’s time for the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League grand final.
The biggest show in country sport - as it’s being touted by the league - raises the curtain on Sunday, 21 September at the picturesque Lavington Sports Ground, with eight scorching clashes set to be played.
With nothing less than eternal glory on the line, and their entire seasons having led to this very weekend, it’s understandably a massive occasion for all involved.
It’s an action-packed day across football and netball, and it all starts bright and early from 8.45am, with Wodonga Raiders taking on Myrtleford in a repeat of last year’s cup clash.
For those locally-minded fans, the first team in action will be Wangaratta Magpies’ thirds, who take to the park at 9am against Lavington.
SOUVENIR PREVIEW
The Chronicle: Friday, 19 September, 2025
SUNDAY, 21 SEPTEMBER
The action keeps rolling on, with the Wangaratta Rovers 17 and under netballers taking on Raiders on the netball court from 10.15am aiming to go one better than last year’s runner-up.
From then on, the netball court doesn’t feature much for
with the A grade match between Raiders and Yarrawonga from 12.15pm, and Yarrawonga taking on North Albury in B grade at 1.45pm.
The intensity reaches a fever pitch at 3.15pm, with a C grade Wangaratta vs Rovers derby showdown a perfect finale to the day’s netball proceedings, with the Magpies looking to
The football action is sure to keep punters entertained – after the thirds match, it’s the Rovers’ turn to fight for glory, with the Hawks’ reserves taking on the Panthers from 11.30am.
For local supporters, the bigticket item is the senior football grand final, a derby grand final for the most coveted cup in the land
PUTTING THE OVENS BACK INTO THE OVENS AND MURRAY: THERE WILL BE TWO ALL WANGARATTA GRAND FINALS THIS WEEKEND, WHEN THE C GRADE NETBALL AND SENIOR FOOTBALL PREMIERSHIPS ARE CONTESTED AT LAVINGTON.
PHOTOS: MARC BONGERS
Reigning premiers Wangaratta Rovers will go in as favourites against Wangaratta Magpies from 3.15pm, with the premiership cup – and bragging rights over their oldest rival – on the line.
On the official side of things, former Brock Burrum Saint, Lavington Panther, and current Melbourne Demon Aidan
as this year’s Grand Final Day Ambassador, with Craig Willis as ground announcer to oversee all on-field cup and medal presentations once more.
Gates open at Lavington Sports Ground from 7.30am - a reminder the event is strictly no pets, no BYO alcohol, no glass containers, and no vaping or smoking inside the venue.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
Wangaratta derby to decide the senior football premiers of the Ovens and Murray –it’s so perfectly scripted, it should be up for an Oscar.
The season comes to a head this Sunday when Rovers take on Magpies at the Lavington Sports Ground from 2.30pm in what has the makings of an all-time classic.
For the brown and gold, it presents a chance to secure back-to-back flags for the first time since 1993-’94, and there are plenty of reasons why they could actually pull it off.
The Rovers have been seen as the benchmark of the competition all year, and for good reason.
After doing the deed in the last match of 2024, the Rovers recovered well from their opening round loss, stringing together a six-match winning streak before tasting defeat again.
They haven’t always put teams to the sword, but they’ve always done enough to get the job done.
Rovers coach Sam Murray said his side has been putting the work in to show the 2024 flag wasn’t a flash in the pan, but the start of a dynasty.
“It’s been a long time since this club had success and even longer since they’ve had sustained success,” he said.
“That was the Rovers of old, when they won premierships back in the day they were able to stay consistent and stay at the top for a long period of time.
“We’re trying to create our own history with that. It’s exciting, we’ve worked really hard to get here, nothing’s come lightly.
“We’ve spent a lot of time getting ourselves in the right position, training and working really hard, and it’s a credit to the boys, but now it’s time this weekend to go one more.
“It’s obviously a day we’ve had a little bit of experience with now through our efforts last year, so
we’re looking forward to getting to do it again.”
They’ve certainly got the talent to get the job done – Murray is arguably the best player in the competition, averaging 30 disposals, seven marks and five inside 50s a game just by himself. Throw in the damaging ruckforward combo of Ed Dayman and Will Christie, midfield ball magnet Charlie Thompson, the versatile Nathan Cooper, Rising Star Noah Scholte, and newly-minted Morris Medallist Lochie O’Brien, and the list is starting to wander into superlative territory.
The depth of talent in the brown and gold is almost oppressive in its elite-ness – it will take something miraculous to deny them the flag.
“We’ve obviously recruited two really key important players for us in Nathan Cooper and Charlie Thompson, who have added some really important depth in certain areas of our game where we needed a little bit more profile,” Murray said.
“We’ve continued to build on the really good work we did last year, we’re really comfortable with our style and the way in which we play
and approach the game, so it’s just about being able to compound and get that better.
“The time that we’ve been able to spend in working on our game has allowed us to essentially become better at it over a longer period.”
Murray said the match would be their most difficult challenge all year, with the derby stage and the grand final coinciding perfectly.
“I don’t think Wangaratta have overachieved at all, I think they’ve achieved right to where they are,” he said.
“They’re a good side, they’ve
got good depth, they’ve got great leaders and some game-winners, so we’ve got to be at our best on Sunday and make sure we’re able to compete right to the very end.
“The derby in itself has that extra weight, but our boys have really enjoyed and thrived off the challenge over the last few years, we’ve been able to get ourselves on the right side of the ledger more often than not, but there’s no doubt Magpies are going to come with a really strong brand.
“We respect them a lot, and we’re looking forward to having that battle.”
YBY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
ou come at the king, you best not miss.
Wangaratta will enter Sunday’s grand final as the underdogs, aiming to deny rivals Rovers back-to-back senior premierships for the first time since the 1990s – there’s sure to be plenty of feeling in this one.
Punters may have written them off at times, or at least stretched the odds so long they were an outside chance to even make finals, but Wangaratta is an insanely good team, a fact they’ve proven time and again.
Their road to the final started back in April, in a derby opening round win over the recently crowned Rovers, signalling their intent to challenge for the title once again.
The Magpies won five of their first seven games, including statement wins against the resurgent Wodonga and North Albury.
While they did suffer some losses, they were never down for long, and weathered a tough late draw of three losses on the trot to still qualify for finals.
From there, the Magpies proved their class, coming up with the goods against North Albury, Lavington (thanks to an after the siren goal which brought the crowd to their feet), and even against Myrtleford, who they hadn’t defeated all season.
In his first year at Norm Minns Oval, Magpies coach Jason Heatley said the rollercoaster season had them in the best possible state to challenge for the crown.
“It’s vindication of the journey that we set ourselves on in the back end of September-October last year,” he said.
“The club’s been extremely supportive, and the history of the Maggies over the last eight or 10 years has been around turning up and giving yourselves opportunities to play in games like this.
“It’s good to look on both sides of
the fence throughout the course of the year, that’s why footy seasons in some sense become a marathon.
“You get growth out of that, you get growth out of winning, you get growth out of losing, adversity and injury – each one of our guys can tell a story outside of footy, and I think that’s the most important thing.”
There are so many stars on the park for the Magpies, of all ages, from the dependable Michael Bordignon and Cam Barrett, to the new wave of emerging talent like Max Bihun and Blake Newton.
Xavier Laverty is reliable in front of goal, Alex Federico is one
of the slickest ball-users in the competition, and big Chris Knowles is putting together a courageous and dominant finals series.
But it’s the group’s team-first mentality which has seen them win through to the biggest game of the season.
“We don’t compromise on anything else but team first,” Heatley said.
“Our job is to bring it all together with everyone playing their part.
“We don’t need any stars, we just need contributors.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s match, Heatley said the battle in
the guts would go a long way in determining the 2025 premiers.
“I think the game will be won around the midfield,” he said.
“If you look at all of the finals games and largely throughout the course of the year, I think the side who gets more looks wins, to put it really simply.
“It’s certainly one of our key strengths, it’s certainly one of Rovers’ key strengths.
“They have some real top-end talent that aids their journey and progression, so there are a lot of things that we’re looking at, but we have supreme confidence in our group as well.
“Our list, there’s no question it’s started to get healthy, and for it to get healthy, we needed the guys to go through situations like this in preparation.
“We’ll put an exceptional side on the field – there’s a lot to play out, but we’re in a good space.
“It’s obviously been a tough time in this neck of the woods, there’s been a lot happening, and I just think for the Wangaratta community to embrace two great footy clubs who have a lot of history and a lot of passion, but more importantly have a lot of respect for each other when you really break it down.”
Embrace the moment.
That’s been the message from Wangaratta thirds coach Chris Knowles to his young Magpie troops as they look to be the first of Wangaratta’s premiership hopefuls to be lifting the cup at Lavington Sportsground on Sunday.
Just like Knowles’ senior counterparts, the Magpies thirds have hit their straps when it’s mattered most and stormed into the grand final on the back of a six-game win streak and a big win against their previously undefeated crosstown rivals on home turf a fortnight ago.
The Magpies used the week off to put their future prospects to the test and held a scratch match at the Wangaratta Showgrounds last Saturday morning.
Knowles said his team were
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
feeling fresh and pumped to be running out in front of thousands against Lavington, and he encouraged his team to take in all the highs and lows in chasing premiership glory.
“A lot of people like to say grand finals are just another game of footy, it’s not, it does carry a bit of extra weight and all of your nerves and excitement are good if you use them in the right way,” he said.
“That’s what we’ve been speaking about over the last couple of weeks and using our emotions to our advantage.”
During the week Owain Boyle saw the rewards of a terrific season through the midfield with a fourth placed finish in the league best and fairest count on Monday night and will be spearheading the Magpies engine room once again.
He has been well supported throughout the year by many different contributors including the likes of Angus Jayet, Will Peterson and ruckmen Cooper Newton and Hamish Laverty.
But Knowles said it has taken far more than the one contributor to have taken the team this far, crediting his side’s maturity throughout the year as the driving force behind their late season purple patch.
“We’ve just talked about the whole time clicking at the right time of year and using losses as learning points and they’ve just done that tremendously well,” he said.
“We’ve always spoken about needing 22 blokes to contribute come finals time and it’s to the boys credit.
“They’ve had the right mindset coming into these games and even the last few games of the regular season as well.”
Wangaratta and Lavington have played a trilogy of thrillers this season, including Wangaratta’s stirring comeback win in the qualifying final a few weeks ago.
The ‘Pies were down by as much as 21 points in the last quarter before storming home to win by just over a goal.
The Panthers boast plenty of star power with the likes of newly crowned Leo Dean medalist Cooper Hall and Riley Costello through the midfield.
Lavington were held goalless in the opening half of the
preliminary final, but the Panthers ran the Rovers off the ground to sneak home by two points and earn their chance at a premiership.
Knowles said the battle on Sunday would most likely be won in the midfield as he looked to his side’s depth as the key to their success.
“Their top six or seven players are really good thirds footballers and will be really good seniors footballers over the next couple of years,” he said.
“We feel if we are able to shut them down, our next 15 blokes will be able to get the job done for us.
“It’s going to be won or lost in the midfield, they’ve got a really good setup, but if we get on top and we win the territory battle it starves them of opportunity.”
First bounce of the thirds will take place at 9am.
G O R O V E R S !
O M A G P I E !S
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
When Wangaratta Rovers reserves won their last flag, Darcy Booth and Luke Peters were teenage members of the premiership side.
Eighteen years on from that 68-point victory over Albury, which came after grand final losses in the two previous seasons, the pair are preparing for the Hawks’ latest tilt at the reserves title - this time as co-coaches.
“It’s really come full-circle,” Booth said in the lead-up to Sunday’s clash with minor premier Lavington, which trounced Myrtleford by 90 points in last week’s preliminary final.
The Booth-Peters co-coaching arrangement had its origins at the Findlay Oval in 2022, and they took the Hawks’ reserves to a grand final meeting with Yarrawonga that year, before stepping aside to concentrate on playing.
Now back sharing the role, they’ve guided the current crop of reserves to within a win of premiership glory.
In the tradition of seconds footy, this year’s Hawks combination has included a number of graduates from the successful Rovers thirds program, alongside a smattering of experienced players including Mitch Booth and captain Nic Henderson - the latter having suffered two knee injuries which ruled him out - and the two coaches taking the fields at various stages.
The Hawks come up against
a Lavington side playing on its home deck on Sunday, but having carved themselves a straight path to the grand final including a 22-point semi-final win over this week’s opponent, they know they can match the Panthers.
“Lavi are a very good side, and have gotten stronger since our last match-up, with senior players like Nic Sedgwick and Drew Beavan coming back in, but we’ve beaten them in all three of our
LET’S GO: WANGARATTA ROVERS RESERVES
the ruck, Joe Allen who’s had a great year, and Sam Rourke, who’s reinvented himself as a centrehalf-forward and played some senior footy,” Booth said.
The Rovers’ Sam Comensoli was also on the leaderboard at Monday night’s medal count, finishing runner-up in the Leo Burke Medal (the league’s reserves best and fairest award) to Lavington’s Harryson Barber, who will be among the Panthers’ players to watch on Sunday, along with Sam Hargreaves and 300-game player Adam Butler.
Booth said the two sides played a very similar style of football, and he expected the game to be won in the midfield.
“We want to win it,” Booth said.
“Regardless of the result, though, it speaks to the health of the club that both the seniors and reserves are there on Sunday.
encounters this year,” Booth said.
“Among our prime movers will be Harry McMonigle, who is a class above in the twos, and Oscar Clelland, who won the reserves goalkicking award (at Monday’s Morris Medal presentation).”
That win made it back-to-back league goalkicking awards for Clelland, after he took out the thirds’ John Longmire Medal in 2024.
“We’ve also got Max Cullen in
“We’ve been really fortunate to have lots of numbers this year, with a very young list across the club; a healthy list can also create problems at timestelling blokes they have to miss out is probably the toughest part of the job.”
Despite the fact there may be some tough calls still to make this week, Booth said it was an exciting time for the club, offering great signs for the future.
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
Wangaratta Magpies are on the verge of a rare sporting achievement, going for back-to-back flags in Ovens and Murray C grade netball.
Adding to the theatre of the match is the added interest of doing it against cross-lane rivals Wangaratta Rovers.
They hold a 2-1 edge on the Hawks in season 2025 including a win in the most recent bout in the qualifying final, but coach Rachelle ‘Shel’ Petts said past history was only a guide not a result in itself.
“Our focus has been on getting the basics right, working through our usual style of play and building on some of our combinations,” Petts said.
“We match up quite well against Rovers across the board, and I feel like we play a similar style of game.
“This means we don’t have to adjust too much, but it also means we can’t become too predictable in our patterns of play or how we approach them in defence.
“Keeping up the intensity and working under pressure has also
been key for us given we had the week off.
“We need to make sure we start out strong as we don’t want to be playing catch up like we did against Myrtleford.
“We are lucky to have a great group of girls coming along to train with us, and that’s been pivotal in our ability to keep training to a high standard, but to also have those encouraging words of advice and reminders to enjoy the experience because grand
finals are hard to come by.”
Petts said playing in a grand final comes with a huge amount of pressure and build up, and although she would like to say that the derby doesn’t add another layer, she confessed for many of the players out there, it absolutely does.
“Playing Rovers is always a big day locally, and while the competition is fierce, there are so many friendships and connections across both teams that it makes it
MAGPIES C GRADE
Coach: Shel Petts
Team manager: Deanne Kelly
Shooters
Imogen Robinson
Brooke Henwood (capt)
Georgia Clark
Mids
Diaz Matthews (vice-capt)
Taylor Boyle
Shel Petts
Charlotte Woosnam
Defenders
Jessie Knights - (assist coach)
Lily Cairns
Phebe Gibson
Jess Henry
Maggie Walker
Ruby Croucher- injured
a great day of netball viewing and banter,” she said
“To have two Wangaratta teams playing off in a netball grand final, as well as the seniors, and then to have three other sides from Wang in a grand final is something we should be proud of as a community.
“Last weekend I was in the midst of the Rovers crowd, cheering that C grade side on to get the win, because I always want to see local teams doing well.
“Come Sunday though, we will embrace the pressure, the build up, and the crowd and do our best to walk away with that cup.”
Petts said her ‘ring’ defenders, Jessie Knights and Phebe Gibson in GD and GK, will have a massive job on their hands against two of the most accurate shooters in the league.
“They are both premiership players from last season’s side, and as a unit they work tirelessly to give the attackers opportunity to convert ball,” she said.
“Lily Cairns in WD is also pivotal through our defensive end, and when she is firing she is able to intercept and deflect balls through the midcourt.
“In our attacking end, Taylor Boyle in WA/C provides us a beautiful mix of stability and consistency but is also hard to the ball and has pinpoint feeds.
“Imogen Robinson in GS has the ability to shoot a game out and gives the players around her so much confidence with her shooting accuracy.
“Immy can be hard to stop when she is on, and we know that she will need to be at her best for us to get the win.”
Petts herself is in a race against the clock to be fit for Sunday but will leave the final decision as late as matchday.
BY SHANE
DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
There has been little to separate Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies in the Ovens and Murray C grade netball this season, with Magpies finishing one rung higher on the ladder in second position, just a win and a draw in front.
Since then, both sides have toppled minor premier Myrtleford to find themselves face-to-face in a highly-anticipated derby.
Rovers C grade coach Deb Doyle said the opening round loss to Magpies gave her squad a clear picture of where they needed to lift their game, and the team responded quickly, winning the next three matches in a row.
“Myrtleford have been our greatest rivals; the preliminary final was actually our first win against them this season,” Doyle said.
“Raiders were also tough competition, and through the middle of the season we strung together eight consecutive wins, which showed the players’ growing confidence and ability to work together as a team.
Late in the season the Hawks suffered another two losses, and
then a qualifying final nine-point defeat against Magpies.
“That defeat hurt, but it also sharpened our focus and reminded us of the intensity required at finals level,” Doyle said.
“Since then, the team has thrived on the challenge of bouncing back, producing some thrilling performances that have left both me and the spectators on the edge of our seats.
“It’s truly been a team effort all season.
“When I look back to where we started, I’m proud of the leaps and bounds every player has made in their own game and in how they’ve worked together as a unit.
“In defence, Sam Lyster (GK) has been outstanding.
“Together with Maggie Chant, Ella Masters and Tyler Cleal, they’ve built a formidable defensive line that has been vital to our success.
“In attack, Mia Eddington has been brilliant, consistently finding space and finishing with confidence.
WANGARATTA ROVERS
C GRADE
Coach: Deb Doyle
Shooters
Mia Eddington
Holly Semmens
Lauren Flynn (assist-coach)
Mids
Charlotte Annett
Emma Kreltszheim
Lily Shanley
Defence
Ella Masters
Tyler Cleal (co-capt)
Maggie Chant (co-capt)
Sam Lyster
Extended bench to be confirmed:
Lily Lyster
Freya Chant
Lily Palmer
“Holly Semmens has added real strength in the shooting circle, combining well with Lauren Flynn to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
Doyle said, through the midcourt, Lily Shanley has taken her game to a new level.
“She’s stepped up from being a supportive centre to becoming our key play, providing a solid link between defence and attack,” she said.
“Charlotte Annett (WA) and Emma Kreltszheim have rotated beautifully, and their contrasting
styles keep our play unpredictable and difficult to shut down.
“Our 17 and under players have also been significant throughout the season and on our road to finals.
“They have readily stepped into the side and played with confidence and determination.”
Doyle has experienced grand finals before during her impressive and varied netball career but this will be the first time with her home club.
“It has been a real ride,” she said
“Heading into the game, my key messages to the team are simple: be confident, trust in your preparation, and enjoy the moment.
“The biggest takeaway from the season, for me, has been the importance of teamwork; not just on court, but working closely with the players and the collective coaching group.
“I’ve gained so much insight from everyone around me, players included.
“Of course, we play to win, and winning makes for a great season, but having fun along the way is just as important.
“There’s plenty of excitement around the club and the town, and I’ve encouraged the players to soak it all up and enjoy the build-up.
“On Wednesday, we trained as a full netball squad: 17s, C grade, and the wider club, with music and good vibes.
“On Friday, we’ll reset, narrow our focus, and prepare for the game ahead.”
O&M NETBALL
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
Wangaratta Rovers get one more shot at toppling Ovens and Murray 17 and under netball flag favourites Wodonga Raiders this weekend.
The two clubs have been a class above the rest of the field this season, with Raiders suffering their only defeat for the season at the hands of the Hawks, although that result was reversed in the semi-final.
Rovers coach Stacey ‘Mina’ Lamb is a seasoned finals campaigner with last year’s 17 and under runners up experience under her belt.
She coached Rovers B grade with Michelle Caruso to a grand final in 2011, another three at Milawa in the Ovens and King, and last year’s Rovers grand final side, and is keen to go one better this year.
“To play in a grand final with your mates for this fabulous club is a dream come true,” Lamb said.
“We have prepared all year for this and now it’s time to go out there and play the game we love with our friends for the club we love.
“We go into this grand final with a full and fit squad.
“We have had a tough year riddled with injuries and players in and out, but the pieces of the puzzle have come together at the right time of the year.
“With the support of assistant coach Ellie Miller, we have been building for this game all year.”
Lamb said the win over Raiders this season was proof enough they are in with a fighting chance.
“We are playing some high
quality netball,” she said.
“Lily Lyster consistently shoots bulk goals and is beautifully supported by Sophia Pasquali and Freya Chant.
“As a team we have shot the most goals for the year, over 1000.
“We have fit and fast mid-court rotations with Sadie Pellegrino, Elle Gibson and Brooke Del Mastro.
“Our defensive unit is strong and relentless with league Best and Fairest winner, goal keeper
Coach: Stacey ‘Mina’ Lamb
Assistant Coach: Ellie Miller
Team Manager: Holly McCarthy
First Aid: Amelia Sharp
Shooters
Sophia Pasquali
Lily Lyster
Freya Chant
Mids
Sadie Pellegrino
Elle Gibson
Brooke Del Mastro
Defence
Annie Harding (capt)
Lainey Draper
Lily Palmer
Bench
Issy Pizzini
Arabella Cavicchiolo
Lily Palmer, captain Annie Harding and ball winner Lainey Draper.
“We also have depth on the bench with Issy Pizzini and Arabella Cavicchiolo benching for us from the 15 and under team.”
Lamb said she expected there will be an element of nerves coming into the game, but she hoped her squad would embrace it and really enjoy the day.
“The crowd will be big and loud and I know that we will give it our
best shot as a team and as a club,” she said.
“But it’s got to be fun, we spend a lot of time playing and coaching netball as a hobby so you have to enjoy it.
“It’s fun when you are learning, working hard and having success with a group of people that support you.
“When the scores were level in the prelim final on Sunday, I knew as a team we were good enough to win.
“I got all the girls to stop, come in close, take a breath and look each other in the eye.
“The message was that we got to this point in the season because we are a good team.
“Look at each other and know that we trust each other and we can finish off this game.
“I really hope they take this trust and belief into Sunday’s game because they can do it.”
Lamb described the build-up this week as “awesome”.
“It’s the talk in the town and around the club, and is so exciting,” she said.
“But the expectations and the pressure needs to be acknowledged and enjoyed.
“We are the two best teams that get to play the last game of the year.
“Everyone playing on grand final day is the envy of the league.”
TIME:
Students and families enjoyed a special Father’s Day breakfast, sharing delicious bacon and egg rolls together.
The morning created a wonderful opportunity for students to celebrate and thank their dads and special
during the Father’s Day event at CCW.
father figures, strengthening community connections and making cherished memories before the school day began.
Students enjoyed a parachute activity on the school’s fourth transition day for the year. The staff team are big
The college’s Father’s Day Breakfast and Sports Colours Day was a fantastic morning filled with games, great food and even better company.
It was a huge success, bringing together families for fun and friendship. Thanks go to everyone who joined in and helped make the day so memorable.
believers in getting kids ready for school early. It is yet another one of those things that doesn’t change with
kids - no matter how much time goes by, they will always get a kick out of simple things, like running under a parachute.
LIFE SKILLS: APPIN PARK YEAR 6 STUDENT
JOANA ROGERS PRACTISED HER COMPRESSION SKILLS ON “FRANK”.
Year 3 to 6 students had the opportunity to further develop their basic first aid skills when participating in the St John’s First Aid Schools Program.
All classes looked at the “DRSAB” with the senior classes also working on the “C” componentCompressions. Understanding the Dangers that they may be exposed to and keeping themselves safe was the first topic of discussion, before discussing
1If you were using your zygomaticus major muscle, which of the following would you probably be doing? Is it a) typing, b) smiling, c) digesting or d) standing on tip-toe?
Response and Sending for help, checking the Airways and Breathing.
All students engaged with great enthusiasm and showed some recall of previously learned information.
The school considers continuing to grow their knowledge around basic first aid is important, not only for themselves, but potentially for family and friends and others within our community. Having some skills when needed could be lifesaving.
The practise students did prior to House Athletics Day certainly paid off, with everyone participating to the very best of their ability. Even more pleasing than the athletic performances was the way students supported each other, assisted by Yarrunga
3People with gelotophobia are afraid of what? Is it a) brainfreeze, b) clowns, c) being laughed at or d) wheat?
staff and volunteers from Wangaratta High School. The students greatly appreciated the cheering from the sidelines from the many members of the school community who attended the event at the Bill Eaton Athletic Complex.
4What is Jupiter’s largest moon? Is it a) Ganymede, b) Phobos, c) Triton or d) Charon?
5Can rats laugh?
Benalla Art Gallery will mark its 50th year in its iconic building with a community celebration on the evening of Thursday, 25 September.
The organisation was established in 1968 with considerable community backing and significant donors, enabling the appointment of noted architects Philip Sargeant and Colin Munro to design the purpose-built Benalla Art Gallery.
Located between the banks of Lake Benalla and the Benalla Botanical Gardens, the new gallery opened in 1975 and has since provided the foundation of Benalla’s artistic and creative culture.
Benalla Art Gallery now welcomes the community to gather and celebrate the milestone anniversary, while looking forward to the next 50 years as it prepares to embark on its stage one redevelopment designed by Williams Boag architects.
Benalla Rural City Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said Benalla Art Gallery has been a special part of the community for 50 years.
Gallery director Eric Nash said the event is a way to honour the past and acknowledge and pay tribute to supporters, while looking forward to the next exciting chapter.
“With the gallery temporarily closing from 29 September to enable the stage one redevelopment, we’re confident it will continue to bring many more years of enjoyment to residents and visitors,” he said.
The celebration will feature music, a community drawing activity, and a postcard time capsule for attendees to share their favourite memory from the gallery’s first 50 years.
It takes place from 6pm to 8pm and RSVP is essential by contacting 5760 2619 or gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au.
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
Public demand to be part of Bright’s largest residential development in decades is showing no signs of slowing, with Bright Valley Development revealing it has completely sold out the 78 lots of stages one and two, and has more than 2200 people on the waiting list for future stages.
Stage three of the development - comprising a 53 lot subdivision on 2.25 hectares of land adjoining the Great Alpine Road on the western entrance to town - received planning approval at last week’s Alpine Shire Council meeting.
All councillors, except Cr Jean-Pierre Ronco who abstained from voting, endorsed the next stage which will see roughly 17 lots per hectare, ranging from 198sqm to over 632sqm, with
the majority (89 per cent) between 300sqm and 600sqm.
Developer Will Deague, who attended the council meeting, said he expected to start selling stage three lots in the second quarter of next year.
He said demand was incredible, with 2200 people on the waiting list from all over Victoria, NSW and Canberra.
Mr Deague said the mix of sales in stages one and two had been very pleasing, reflecting the desire for a large percentage of owner/occupiers.
“It’s been 60/40 split of owner/occupiers and investors, and of the investors a lot plan to use them as holiday houses and lease them out when they are not there, or plan on retiring there,” he said.
“A lot of owners, if not all of them, have gone for a lot of the extras, like stone work on the outside of the houses.
“About 20 per cent of sales are to existing residents of Bright looking at more downsizing than upsizing.”
Mr Deague said all civil works on the development are expected to be completed by the end of this year, and they will hopefully pour the first slab in late January or February next year, with the first house
settling in July next year.
He said they are planning on smaller, more affordable products for stage four to meet buyer demand, as there “is not as much demand for $2m two storey houses, but probably more the three bedroom $1.25m houses”.
He said permits for stage
four of the seven stage development were likely to be lodged with council early next year, with two of the remaining stages on the lower section of land and two more stages on the upper tier, where larger lot sizes will be offered.
Mr Deague said he anticipated all seven stages would happen within another five years.
“The biggest issue ahead of us now is North East Water only have enough sewage capacity for 135 connections,” he said.
“They are not bringing on more capacity until 2029, so we are working with them to come up with a solution for that gap while we wait for 2029.
“We expect we’ll eat up 135 connections within the next two years.”
by July next year
Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) will transition to a publicly operated cancer inpatient and day oncology model at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre (AWRCC) on 1 July 2026.
The AWRCC, opened in 2016, has been operated under a public-private partnership with Ramsay Health Care (RHC), which currently delivers inpatient and day oncology services to public and private patients.
AWH will begin transition planning in collaboration with RHC to support continuity of care for patients and minimise disruption for staff and service partners, with RHC to continue delivering services during the transition period.
AWH said the transition aligns with its Strengthening Cancer Services Plan and aims to ensure continued access to cancer care for the community.
Dr John Elcock, chief medical officer at AWH, said the partnership with RHC has been instrumental in providing localised cancer care to the community.
“As we transition to a publicly operated service, we remain committed to working with our excellent local medical specialists and cancer care providers to maintain the highest standards of care and research while continuing to support our patients with the best possible treatment options,” he said.
AWH said it is working with the Department of Health, Safer Care Victoria, and other relevant partners to ensure the transition is safe, coordinated and consistent with current standards of care.
Victorian Minister of Health, Mary-Anne Thomas said the transition “marks an important step in strengthening cancer care for the Albury Wodonga community – ensuring services are publicly operated, accessible and sustainable for the future”.
AWH chief executive officer, Bill Appleby, said AWH’s goal is to continue the provision of high-quality cancer services for the community into the future.
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
Travel restrictions to the Porepunkah area have been lifted and the Victorian government has announced a support package to help businesses, while the manhunt for armed fugitive Dezi Freeman entered its fourth week in the alpine region.
Victoria Police has lifted its advice to avoid travelling to Porepunkah, with the Great Alpine Road open all the way through Porepunkah to Bright.
Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed to the public and Victoria Police has advised its search for Freeman continues, and an increased police presence in and around the area remains, with police command still operating out of DEECA at Ovens.
Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes on Monday announced a $2.5 million package to help support the visitor economy in Porepunkah, Bright and surrounding region, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing police operation to find the armed gunman, who remains at large after having allegedly killed two police officers and injured a third at his Rayner Track
property on 26 August.
Police advise that if you see fugitive Dezi Freeman (pictured), call 000 immediately but do not approach him. Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station. For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.vic.gov.au/ porepunkah-shooting-and-searchdesmond-freeman-filby
Treasurer Symes said the government will continue to stand with the Porepunkah community and provide them “every support they need”.
“While our brave emergency services are still responding to this unthinkable crime, we know that businesses need support...this package will help the local commu-
nity right now and into the future,” she said.
Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, who along with Bright Chamber of Commerce president Marcus Warner has been calling for urgent support for local businesses after weeks of “disruption and uncertainty”, said the support package offered “much-needed relief” and he urged businesses to register their interest without delay.
“This support is a step forward, but the priority now is making sure businesses act quickly to access it so the region can begin its recovery
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
A dusting of fresh snow overnight Tuesday had Falls Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resorts blanketed in white on Wednesday morning, buoying expectations ahead of school holiday guests arriving this weekend.
“Our snow depth is sitting around 95cm, which is amazing for this time of year,” said Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek’s field marketing manager.
“Now’s one of the best times of the year to learn how to ski or snowboard with milder days, lateseason discounts and fantastic snow.
“There’s just a few weeks left for people to come up and enjoy our beautiful alpine environment before the season ends on Sunday, 5 October.”
Falls Creek has its inaugural September School Holiday Festival on for the final fortnight of this season and it includes kids’ workshops and
donut decorating, as well as twilight skiing and the iconic Pond Skim event.
Mt Hotham, which still has an average snow depth of a metre throughout the resort, also has plenty of discounts and deals on offer for resort entry, accommodation, lift tickets, lessons and equipment hire, through to apres refreshments and entertainment.
Both resorts have most of their lifts operating and terrain
opened, offering some of the best spring snow conditions in years.
• For the latest resort information, including snow reports, activities and spring deals, visit mthotham.com.au and skihotham.com.au; fallscreek. com.au and skifalls.com.au; and for Dinner Plain go to visitdinnerplain.com.au
Don’t forget you must carry chains to the resorts and fit them when and where directed.
with confidence,” Mr McCurdy said.
The package includes:
• $5000 grants for eligible businesses impacted by loss of trade.
• Funding for Alpine Shire Council and the local business chamber to support community activities and events.
• Targeted tourism marketing and promotional activities to encourage visitors back to the Alpine and High Country region.
• Investment into Ride High Country Marketing Phase 2 to strengthen long-term tourism and economic recovery.
Breweries to host ‘Hops for Hope’ charity events for prostate cancer
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Myrtleford’s Alan Blair is calling on the local community to join him at King River Brewing and Bright Brewery to raise their glass and make a difference this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
Alan, who was diagnosed with stage three, locally advanced prostate cancer in June 2024, at the age of 53, has organised two charity events, ‘Hops for Hope’, to raise vital funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
The events will be held today, 19 September at King River Brewing in Whitfield from 5pm, as well as on Sunday, 28 September at the Bright Brewery from 12pm.
Mr Blair said there will be raffles, trivia and prizes up for grabs at each event to help raise vital funds for the cause.
“You can also help raise funds just by having a beer, with both venues offering a ‘Karma Keg’ where proceeds from your purchase will go to PCFA,” he said.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 26,000 men diagnosed every year.
“‘Hops for Hope’ is not only about raising funds for PCFA, but also starting important conversations about prostate cancer and early detection.
“Currently only 36 per cent of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer at stage one when the disease is easiest to treat...we need to change that.
“All men over the age of 40 should be booking an appointment with their GP to talk about their testing options.”
For more information on prostate cancer visit: www.prostate.org.au or call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
By DEREK OGDEN
With more than 32,000 sales in Australia, the Haval H6 has never been backward at coming forward.
And that’s not about to change anytime soon if the brand’s first plug-in electric vehicle is anything to go by.
PHEVs have been slow to take off, but with ballooning fuel prices, climate change through fossil-fuel pollution, and the ever-present driver albatross of ‘range anxiety’, things are changing.
And the new H6GT, with its bumper 35.4kWh battery, has gone straight to the top of the segment with an electricityonly range, with zero emissions, of up to 180km, almost twice that of its nearest rival.
This is backed up by a combined ICE/hybrid distance of more than 1000 kilometres.
Lux and Ultra models share the new-gen line-up.
Priced at $55,990 driveaway, maker GWM claims ‘exhilarating performance’ from the Ultra PHEV via the brand’s new Hi4 Hybrid Intelligent AWD, with a sprint from zero to 100km/h in a nippy 4.8 seconds.
The vehicle offers varied charging options from 30 to 80 per cent via AC (6.6kW) or DC (48kW) in as little as 26 minutes.
This new flagship comes as part of a significant H6 upgrade inside and out, with entry-level Lux variant, a two-litre turbocharged front-wheel drive, coming to market for $35,990 driveaway.
All are covered by GWM’s seven-year unlimited new car warranty, eight-year un-
limited kilometre battery pack warranty, five-year 24hr roadside assistance and fiveyear capped price servicing through GMW’s network of dealerships.
The H6GT AWD flies the flag for Haval’s SUV range with a premium design language, including an expansive cascading radiator grille with dark finish ‘proudly’ showcasing a bold iteration of the brand’s logo.
A vertical layout of LED daytime running lights support the vehicle’s upright stance, while the sloping coupe-style roof, as opposed to the H6 standard SUV square shape, bears witness to the GT suffix.
Side-on, new black wheel arch cladding runs from front to rear, combining with new 19-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels.
Gone are chrome splashes in favour of a cleaner, modern, minimalist look.
At the rear, the full width light bar has been ousted in favour of a more contemporary array of angled individual taillights.
Centrally situated between the lamps, the Haval badge has been replaced by G-W-M, reflecting the move to its unified GMW brand identity.
The rear renovation introduces a power tailgate to the H6 that can be easily operated at the push or a button, or with a kick motion beneath the bumper.
A 50mm increase in body length gives the cabin add-
pendent 135kW and 232Nm, the combination delivering more than 1000km range.
setting, which allows the choice between EV, EV priority and Intelligent Hybrid.
Fitted with the latest active and passive safety systems, the Haval H6GT is designed to look after occupants and other road users to the best of automotive ability.
ed room, while a shift of the gear selector to the steering column frees up the centre console for more storage and wireless phone charger.
The steering wheel has been reworked to offer a thicker profile with indentations at the ten and two o’clock positions to improve grip and comfort on longer drives.
An automatic parking brake adds to convenience.
Premium materials and finishes to the minimalist decor features a new luxurious cream interior option, adding the personal touch to proceedings.
The changes, while small, are testament to GWM’s broader focus on the driver throughout the cabin.
A ‘heart transplant’ for the H6 has come via the GT’s instrument layout, the centre of which lies a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by GWM’s latest-generation operating system delivering faster processing speeds and more intuitive access.
The latter is debatable.
A fixture in other GWM models including the Tank series, the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling smartphone mirroring and cablefree access to sat nav, media, and communications.
In front of the driver is a 10.25-inch high-res digital instrument cluster with new visuals already seen in Tank models displaying driving information in three key segments.
A 360-degree surround view monitor with seethrough chassis offers visibility for safe manoeuvring.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is exclusive to the Ultra grade in all-wheel drive, coming up with a strong, refined, yet efficient performance.
The 1.5-litre unit, mated with GMW’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, produces 110kW and 230Nm.
Complementing this are three powerful motors – two up front and one at the rear.
Integrated with the 4WD system, the latter an inde-
Advanced technology such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition and traffic jam assist seamlessly support the driver.
Adding to core safety are autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic assist and lane departure warning.
Convenience is enhanced by auto parking assist and for Ultra parking sensors all round.
Seven airbags - two front, two side, two curtain and one centre - cover all seating positions and Isofix child restraints and driver fatigue monitor cap off the cabin.
In place of a standard transmission, the Haval H6GT relies on a two-speed system that predominantly powers the vehicle up to around 80km/h before the ICE chips in, so take-off is all but silent, without being rubber ripping.
Switching into full steam is all but seamless, with the engine making itself noticed with only a restrained growl.
A selection of drive modes is called up via the touchscreen.
Close by is a power mode
As far as power consumption is concerned, the test car on a motorway run recorded 18.0kWh per 100 kilometres, which is acceptable for a vehicle of its heft. With the battery depleted, GWM suggests the hybrid mode will come up with 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel use.
The test car bettered that with 4.9 litres of petrol per 100 kilometres.
The slick(ish) off-the-line sprint (GWM suggests 4.9 sec to 100km/h) is subject to handling stresses on corners, mainly due to its midsize SUV bulk, so it’s probably best to back off.
SUMMARY
For a first effort at a plug-in hybrid, the Haval H6GT Ultra is up with the best in performance - but not in its infotainment communication with the driver.
RATINGS Looks: 8
Performance: 6 Safety: 7
Thirst: 6
Practicality: 7
Comfort: 6
Tech: 6
Value: 8
SPECIFICATIONS (Haval H6GT Ultra 1.5-litre 4-cyl turbo-petrol, hybrid, AWD)
STANDARD WARRANTY
Seven years / unlimited kilometres.
Eight years / unlimited warranty battery pack.
Five years capped price servicing and roadside assist.
Tucked away in a peaceful court location in Wangaratta, this beautifully presented four-bedroom, two-bathroom home delivers the perfect balance of space, comfort and practicality for modern family living.
From the moment you step inside, the fresh updates set the tone – new carpet, recent paintwork and premium
Smeg kitchen appliances combine to create a stylish, move-in ready interior.
Families will appreciate the flexible floorplan, with two spacious living ar-
eas offering plenty of room to spread out or come together.
The master bedroom is complete with ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are well-proportioned, ensuring comfort for everyone.
Car accommodation is a standout, with a secure triple carport featuring a roller door, a generous double garage and additional workshop space – ideal for hobbies, storage or the home handyman.
Energy efficiency has also been front
of mind, with a 9.1kW solar system, new hot water heat pump, ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling, multiple split systems and a wood fireplace ensuring year-round comfort while keeping running costs down.
Close to local amenities yet privately positioned, this home offers an easy, convenient lifestyle.
Whether upsizing, investing or seeking a property that simply ticks all the boxes, this residence is ready to welcome its next family.
We know farming because we work with farmers every day. Our locally built sheds are designed to handle Australia’s tough conditions, giving you peace of mind that your investment will serve you (and the next generation) well.
Discover the perfect blend of comfort, style and space in this beautifully presented home, set on a generous 638m² approx. allotment in Wangaratta.
Offering a relaxed lifestyle, it’s the ideal setting for entertaining guests, enjoying family time or simply unwinding at the end of the day.
The heart of the home features a spacious kitchen and dining area, perfect for family meals and effortless entertaining.
Flowing outdoors, a private alfresco space provides ample room for BBQs, gardening or soaking up the sun in your own sanctuary.
Each of the three bedrooms has been thoughtfully designed with built-in robes and ceiling fans, combining practicality with comfort.
Ducted gas heating ensures warmth
638m2 approx.
| 4 Lamble Court, Wangaratta
through the cooler months, while reverse cycle systems in the loungeroom and master bedroom add year-round climate control.
Beautifully designed for modern living, this home offers both functionality and lifestyle appeal for the whole family.
Set on approximately three acres (1.2ha) with sweeping views of the Warby Range, this quality-built sandstone block home, constructed circa 2010, presents an enviable lifestyle opportunity.
The spacious design features four bedrooms plus an open study, complemented by three generous living areas and two bathrooms, including an ensuite to the master bedroom.
Comfort is assured with evaporative cooling, ceiling fans and a combustion wood heater, while energy efficiency is enhanced by an impressive 11kW solar system.
Outdoor living is just as appealing, with a stunning inground heated swimming pool and an adjoining games and sports area perfect for entertaining family and friends.
4 2 3
Agent | Garry Nash & Co
Phone | 03 5722 2663 Price | $1,099,000 Land | 3 acres (1.2ha)
Location | 961 Boweya Road, Killawarra
Practicality is another highlight, with excellent water storage of approximately 182,500 litres, a large three-bay workshop measuring around 12m x 6m and the convenience of a school bus service at the front gate. This property combines modern comfort with a rural lifestyle setting, offering the best of both worlds in a tightly held location.
Wangaratta 2/81 Murdoch Road
Wangaratta 49 Donald Street
Glenrowan 38 Glenrowan West Road
Boorhaman East 168 Hennessy Lane
Wangaratta 64 Willow Drive
Wangaratta 27 Milnes Creek Drive
Wangaratta 113 Wilson Road
Londrigan 659 Wang-Eldorado Road
This month’s Council Meeting takes place on 23 September at 6pm, Glenrowan Recreation Reserve, 5 Daniel Lane, Glenrowan. You are welcome to attend in person or watch the recording on YouTube the following day. Community Consultation starts at 5:30pm. View the agenda and meeting details at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Council-meetings
Submit questions by 10:00am on the day to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au, or ask in person during the meeting. For accessibility support, contact Customer Service on 03 5722 0888.
G’Day Glenrowan Market Day is returning on 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.
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
• Training, Placement & Transport closes 30 September
• Draft Council Plan closes 26 September
• Draft Financial Plan 2025-2035 closes 26 September
• Draft Asset Plan 2025-2025
closes 26 September
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
Do you have a creative idea that will attract visitors and showcase the best of our region? We want to hear from you if you are planning an event in the Rural City of Wangaratta for 2026. Funding is available for up to $5,000 for major and marquee events, and up to $2,000 for minor events. Applications close, 30 September. Find out more and apply www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Tourism-Event-Funding
This year's theme, Connect, Create and Celebrate invites seniors to discover new interests, connect with fellow community members, and redefine what it means to age.
View the program of 171 free and affordable events and activities 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
19397 WPACC Cafe & Catering Services
Tenders close 2pm on 22 September 2025
Council seeks suitably qualified hospitality organisations interested in managing all hospitality offerings available at WPACC, a major provider of arts experiences in the region welcoming over 110,000 visitors per year. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/WPACCCafe
18791 Trade Services Panel
Tender closes at 2pm on 24 September 2025
Council is calling for experienced and qualified tradespeople to join our Panel of Preferred Contractors. The panel will support maintenance and minor capital works across Council-owned buildings and facilities.
The panel will be in place for three years.
T17697 Drainage Services Panel
Tenders close 12:00pm 24 September 2025
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
Find out when your bin will be collected here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/PurpleBin
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
o To Visit Visited
The Wangaratta Chronicle office will be closed for business on Friday, September 26, 2025 for the AFL Grand Final public holiday. Deadline for classified advertisements for Monday, September 29 edition, will be Thursday, September 25 at 4pm. Phone 5723 0101 Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Annual General Meeting
Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club Inc.
12.45pm Saturday, October 11 2025.
Location: WLTCPC clubrooms at Merriwa Park
All members encouraged to attend
Contact President, Barry Sullivan 0419 373 988
FLY fishing course, full day course covers the basics of fly fishing, including equipment, casting tuition, fly selection and streamcraft, to be held on Sunday, October 12, 10am4pm at the Log Cabin, 28 Chisholm Street, Wangaratta, cost $70 includes lunch.
To book your place contact 0427 756 665.
VARIETY household goods, everything $1 unless marked, toys, clothes pre-loved and new, bric-a-brac, Saturday, September 20, 5 Taylor Street, Wangaratta. o o
To Visit Visited
o
To Visit Visited
WORKSHOP and building materials, gardening, camping, fishing and sewing gear, Saturday, September 20, 9am –3pm, 81 Centre Road, Molyullah (46kms away from Wang), bring a trailer.
HOUSEHOLD Items, Bric-a-brac, antique furniture, white goods, tools and lots more, 8am start Saturday, September 20, 1 Evalyn Court, Wangaratta. o o To Visit Visited
o To Visit Visited
DECLUTTERING sale. Women’s plus and baby clothing, toys and other household shed items. 9am – 2pm, Saturday, September 20, 74 Wenhams Lane, Wangaratta.
To Visit Visited
50” smart tv, fishing rods and gear, set of golf clubs and buggy, vacuum cleaners, AFL prints and knick knacks, DVD player, some DVD’s, camping gear, books, puzzles, bric-a-brac. Saturday September 20. 8.30am-12.20pm, Multiple Units. 22 Dunlop Street Wangaratta.
DECEASED Estate, camping gear, tools, mountaineering books, furniture. Saturday, September 20, start 8am, no early callers, 37 Wilson Road, Wangaratta.
AUSTRALIAN round 50 cents pieces 1966, 80% silver, $25 each, lots available. Ph 03 5721 6563.
Ph 0448 933 999
SECOND hand small lift chair, wear on edges of arms and top corners, $250. Ph 0408 547 661.
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt service. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
LAWN MOWING, pruning, quality work at a competitive price. Phone Paul 0431 945 320.
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.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
JAYCO Westport 20ft 2000 model, sleeps 2, annex, combo shower toilet, aircon, solar, diesel heater, tv, radio, everything works, very good condition, $21,500. Phone Terry 0428 398 360.
1999 Honda S2000, (PTY912) excellent condition, $45,000. Ph Bruce 0400 414 547.
YORK exercise bike, as new condition $350. TIMBER cot and mattress $35 Ph 0408 579 394 or 03 5721 2708
2013 Holden Commodore VF Evoke sedan, 164,000km, 8 inch black edition mags, tinted windows, $12,000 (1JN1LQ). Ph 0400 990 522.
2007 Range Rover, 3.6ltr, V8, turbo diesel, (2CW 9CW) power economy, good for horse float or HD towing. A world car made by Ford. Ford Lion motor, German ZF auto, parts cheap and readily available, new AC pump, EGR valves, front wishbones. 11 months rego. RWC. priced well below market value for quick sale. $14,800 Ph 0429 139 474
MINI POODLES
Black and white parti phantom 19 weeks old, available now. DNA tested. Source ID MB218464 Microchip Numbers 991003003251685 991003003251692 Call Karen 0417 362 961.
15 Mile Creek Campus – 3 positions
Job Numbers: 1494281, 1494370, 1494369
Contract Dates: 27/1/2026 to 26/1/2027 EFT: 1.0
Bogong Campus – 3 positions
Job Numbers: 1494388, 1494389, 1494390 Contract Dates: 27/1/2026 to 26/1/2027 EFT: 1.0
Bogong Campus – 3 positions
Job Numbers: 1494391, 1494392, 1494393
Contract Dates: 13/7/2026 to 7/1/2027 EFT: 1.0
Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to the satisfaction of preemployment conditions. Further information about our school is available from our website www.outdoorschool.vic.edu.au. To apply please use the DET online recruitment website at: https://www.vic.gov.au/school-jobs Closing date for applications: Thursday, October 9, 2025. Contact Person:
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Land for Lease (3-year term with 1 year extension term option) – Benalla (VIC) Facility
The Benalla Facility is owned by the Commonwealth of Australia and operated by Thales, trading as Australian Munitions, producing energetic materials for the Australian Defence Force.
The Benalla property consist of 975 hectares suitable for mixed farming and 3 houses. Australian Munitions is certified to ISO14001 Environmental Management System. Tenders will need to comply with the environmental management system and other requirements defined in the EOI documentation.
To register your interest and request a copy of EOI documentation, please contact joanne. leslie@thalesgroup.com.au specifying project Land for Lease (3 year term with 1 year extension term option) – Benalla Closing date for submission of EOI documentation is Friday, September 26, 2025. It is anticipated this activity will commence from July 1, 2026.
Huge thanks and support Martin,Rachelle and Ross Reid would like to thank the Wang Club for their kind support they showed us on Saturday September 13, by having nibbles supplied to everyone in support of our family as we go through this tough time. The club has shown great support for us, and we are extremely appreciated to all the staff behind the bar.
Thanks for all your support
AMERY, Ian Alexander. Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health, Wangaratta on September 14, 2025. Aged 92 years.
Loved and loving husband of Barbara –married 68 years.
Loved and adored father and father-in-law of Jennifer and Nigel (Davies), Malcolm and Carolyne, Leonie and David (Waters), and Kaylene (Thompson).
Treasured Grandpa of 15 grandchildren and Great-Grandpa of 21 great-grandchildren.
‘Present with his Lord’.
ANDERSON, Melissa Ruth. ‘Sis’
31/7/1980 – 31/8/2025
Most beloved daughter of Debbie and partner Heath and David Anderson. Forever in our hearts.
Loved and admired sister and sister-in-law of Adam and Kellie, Simon and Hannah, and Brad. Greatly missed but never forgotten.
Adored and cherished Mum to Jake, Trey and Eva xxx. In our hearts you will forever remain.
Loved aunty to Max, Marley, and soon to be born, nephew.
Loving grand-daughter to Marianne and Barry (dec) Beitzel. Resting peacefully.
ANDERSON, Melissa.
Dearly loved niece of Karen and Neville. Much loved cousin of Brendan and Lauren, Nicole and Vaughan, Ruby and Addison, Matthew and Danielle, Jordan, Evelyn and Olivia. Our family gatherings will never be the same without you. You had a heart of gold and our memories of you will last forever Rest in peace Sis.
ANDERSON, Melissa.
Sis, you were a beautiful soul with a heart of gold who cared so much and had time for everyone. Our hearts are broken and we will forever miss your gorgeous and ever smiling face, your infectious laugh, your kind words and big hugs. We love you so much.
ANDERSON, Melissa. Deepest sympathy to Eva and family on the sad passing of Melissa.
Rino.
1/2/1960 – 12/9/2025.
Dearly loved son of Agostino and Lucia (both dec).
Loved big brother of Maria and Ross.
Loved husband of Kerry.
Loving father of David. Adored Nonno of Mia.
To us you were someone special, Someone good and true, You will never be forgotten, As we thought the world of you.
CRAVEN, Celia.
The Our Lady’s School Community is saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague Celia.
Celia’s positive attitude and infectious smile will be greatly missed by staff and students alike.
Our heartfelt sympathy to Simon, Kodi, Sienna, Ayla, Elaine and extended family.
DAWS,
Glenda Noelle.
Passed away peacefully at Respect St John’s
Aged Care on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Aged 86 years.
Daughter of Lillian and Alfred Daws (both dec).
Sister of Dianne Brandt, Eril Plum and Graeme Daws (dec).
Aunty to Jens (Christian) Brandt, Steen Brandt and their families.
A beautiful flower picked for God’s Garden. Always cherished and will be always missed.
EDMONDSTONE, Kevin John.
Loving husband of Heather Edmondstone.
Father of Deborah, Stephen and Corey. The service to celebrate the life of Mr Kevin Edmondstone will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, September 25, 2025, commencing at 10.30am.
A private cremation will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers a donation to Dementia Australia in memory of Kevin can be made online at www.donate.dementia.org.au/donate Kevin’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
McAULIFFE (nee Paterson), Judith Anne “Judy”.
Passed away peacefully at Wangaratta Private Hospital with family by her side on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Aged 75 years.
Much loved wife of Barry. Dearly loved Mum of Mark and Mal (Melissa), Kym and Brett.
Adored Nana Judy of Tayla, Georgia, Hunter and Cruz. To the world you were but one, To us, you were the world.
As per Judy’s wishes a private cremation has been held.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060
MORGAN, John Thomas “Tom”. 16/8/1925 - 18/9/2025
Passed away peacefully at Estia Wodonga. Aged 100 years.
Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Greg and Lorraine, Debbie and Brett and Sharryn.
Cherished Pa and GG Pa to Shelley and Clinton, Kym, Melissa and Chris, Dwayne and Kirsten, Jayde, Nick, Jayden, Stacey, Charley, Brandon and Rachel.
Resting in Jehovah's Memory.
PRATT, Ann. 15/9/1941 – 14/9/2025
The family of Ann is saddened to announce her passing to family and friends.
PRATT, Ann.
Passed away Sunday September 14, 2025. The Pratt family are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Ann Pratt. Beloved mother to Mark. Adored mother-inlaw to Gaily Girl. Cherished Granny Annie to Josh, Emily and Adam. We will forever miss her wicked sense of humour, compassionate nature and unconditional love. Forever in our hearts.
PRATT, Ann.
Passed away peacefully Sunday, September 14, 2025. My darling sister your sudden passing has left an emptiness in my heart. I love you so much and will miss you forever, especially our Friday night chats. I have great memories to keep forever. Rest peacefully with our Dad and Mum.
~ Love always your sister Fay, John, Paula, Amber, Jack, Tim, Darcy, Max, Joe and April xxx
PRATT, Ann.
Passed away September 14, 2025.
My darling sister, my heart is broken, my sadness overwhelming. My life without you in it will never be the same.
Thanks for always being there for me through the laughter and tears over the years.
Until we meet again, bye bye Ann love you.
~ Rhonda, Paul, Emma, Leese and families.
PRATT, Ann. 15/9/1941–14/9/2025
For all the wonderful memories and get togethers from the 1950’s to today.
Rest in peace from the School Girls
PRATT, Ann.
To Mark, Gail, Heather, Grace, Fay, Rhonda and families. Our heart goes out to you all. Ann was a wonderful, kind, good friend to us all.
Great lady with a wonderful sense of humour.
Gone far too soon. ~Lee, Ross, Stacy, Adam Gardner.
PRATT, Ann. Passed away September 14, 2025.
My little big sister. I am forever grateful for every moment I shared with you in my whole life. I just wish there could be more.
My fun vivacious, beautiful Aunty Ann, what a privilege to have share some of this life with you. Thank you for everything.
~ Your heartbroken sister and niece Heather and Grace xx
ROBERTS, Jan.
The Wangaratta Bridge Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Jan, our much loved and respected member. She will be missed enormously. Condolences to her family.
RIP Jan.
ROSS, David Edward.
Passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025. Aged 85 years.
Dearly loved and devoted husband of Helen for 60 years.
Devoted father and father-in-law of Bruce and Angela, Sandra and Kim. Much loved Pop to Austin and Juliet, Emily and Johnny, Michael and Maygen, and Rebecca.
Precious brother of Bev Stone. David was dearly loved by his family. He was a devoted family man who was happiest when surrounded by them.
A private funeral will be held. Donations in memory of David to Peter McCallum Cancer Institute or Northeast Health would be welcomed.
A gentle nature, a heart of gold, One of the best this world could hold.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
UEBERGANG, Dulcie Jean. 13/10/1930 – 13/9/2025
Passed away peacefully at Rangeview Nursing Home, Wangaratta. Formerly of Templestowe.
Loved sister of Ken (dec) and sister-in-law of June. Loved aunty of Neil and family; Lynda, David and family. Bruce, Lucy and family; and Ian (dec).
Dearly loved and will be remembered by us all. The funeral of Miss Dulcie Uebergang will be held at Tobin Bothers Reflections of Life Chapel, 816 Doncaster Road, Doncaster on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10am.
A private cremation will follow.
The memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr Ian Alexander Amery will be held at the Rose City Baptist Church, 93 Thomas Street, Benalla on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 commencing at 2pm.
A private family burial at the Thoona Cemetery will have preceded the memorial service.
Livestream of the service will be available with ‘Rose City Baptist Church, Benalla’ on Youtube.
A video recording of the service will also be available from 5pm, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.
The celebration of the life of Melissa Anderson will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, on Wednesday September 24, 2025, commencing at 10.30am.
A private cremation will take place following the service.
Melissa’s service can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to headspace in memory of Melissa at www.headspace.org.au/get-involved/ donations/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
The funeral service for Mr Rino Bernardi will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday September 23, 2025 at 2pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made online in memory of Rino to the Stroke Foundation at www.strokefoundation.org.au/donate
Rino’s service can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
DAWS
The graveside service of thanksgiving for Ms Glenda Noelle Daws will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery, Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 2pm.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
On behalf of Kerry Marsden – her husband Keith (dec), children Scott and Janelle, and their families, we invite you to a celebration of her life.
Kerry loved her property and has spent countless hours creating, with Keith, a garden that is the only fitting location for her Springtime farewell. Come celebrate her life followed by light refreshments.
‘Springtime Garden Celebration’ The Marsden Home 143b Rowan Street, Wangaratta Thursday, September 25, 2025 2pm for a 2.30pm service. Please park on Rowan and Swan Streets and in nearby church car parks - for accessibility requirements you can access the driveway for drop-off only. It will be held outside so please wear flat shoes, bring an umbrella and wear brightly coloured clothes. If the weather isn’t kind, we will provide 24-hours’ notice via the Mason Park website and Facebook and it will be relocated.
MORGAN
A memorial service for John Thomas “Tom” Morgan will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 149 Clarkes Lane, Wangaratta. 2pm Thursday, September 25, 2025. A private burial will be held prior to John’s memorial service.
The funeral service to honour the memory of Ann Pratt will be held in the St Jude’s Church, 71 MacKay Street, Eldorado, on Monday, September 22, 2025, commencing at 2pm.
Burial will follow the service at the Eldorado Cemetery. Ann’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Jenny Ingrid Gaze 22/9/2010 15 years have passed. I think of you especially when I walk by the sea, work in the garden or feed the king parrots and remember you with love.
~ Doug
McNAMARA, Barbara.
Passed away September 20, 2024. Aged 88 years.
Dearly loved mother of Jan and Kaye (dec).
Loving grandmother of Kellie, Tracy (dec) and Shaun.
Always in our hearts.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FOUNTAIN, Nicole.
10/5/73 - 25/9/24
A year has passed and not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. A thorn in my side but a rose in my heart.
Miss you and love you.
~ Peter
8/5/1961 - 19/9/2024
Unable are the loved to die, for love is
Alex, Jess, Tanara, Sara, Alex and Eva.
The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community.
Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.
The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a taxdeductible receipt for your donation. To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact -
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer
The Wangaratta Clay Target Club recently welcomed Jayden Grisham and his team from Grimshaw Signs in Wangaratta to the club’s North Wangaratta range for a corporate team event.
The clay target club was pleased to introduce a local business to the club and provided all facilities and supervision ensuring everyone had an enjoyable, fun and exciting afternoon.
Club members are always willing to share their knowledge on gun safety procedures, technique and general advice when shooting at a moving target.
All in attendance managed to break some targets while participating in the club’s Down The Line discipline.
Several in the group did not
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB
Thursday, 11 September
Ladies Stableford
18 Hole Winner: Linda Stone 33, Joy Hester 32.
9 Hole Winner: Kathie Hyland 18.
Ball Winner: Lyn Male on C/B Robyn Harrison 13.
NTPs - 8th: Pip Whitford , 13th: Linda Stone.
Saturday, 13 September
Ladies Monthly Medal Winner: Lee Freeland -7.
Ball winners: Ange Mitchell 2 ball -1, Di Murphy c/b from Kellie Roberts +2.
NTPs - 4th: Nikole Cunningham, 8th: Ange Mitchell, 13th: Pip Whitford, 17th: Kellie Roberts.
Men’s Monthly Medal
A grade winner: Jacob Shonafinger -2. A grade runner up: Robert Voss +4.
B grade winner: Gary Butler +1. B grade runner up: Gordon Patterson +2.
C grade winner: Ray Hyland +1. C grade runner up: Michael Baillie c/b from Doug Richens +2.
D grade winner: Dave Anderson -3. D grade runner up: Stan Goldsworthy c/b from Thomas Mulhall, Daine Porter -1.
Ball Winners: Thomas Mulhall -1, Daine Porter -1, Doug Richens +2, Danny Potter +2, Gary Walden +3, Ric Harnwell +3, Trevor Nippress +4, Mike Fitzsimonds +5, Joe Marjanovic Jnr +5, Bronte Bruce +5, Geoff Nicholson +6, Peter Challman c/b from others +6. NTPs - 4th: Charl De Mink, 8th: Brendan Cairns, 13th: Mike Fitzsimonds, 17th: Robert Voss.
Monday, 15 September
Veterans Stableford
A grade winner: Michael Monro 34. B grade winner: Stan Goldsworthy 43.
Ball winners: Lawrence Miller 37, William Slade 33, John Batchelor C/B 32, Pat Ernst C/B 32. Tuesday, 16 September
Ladies 18 Hole StablefordJubilee GC vs Wangaratta G.C
Winner – Jubilee: Kathie Hyland
37. Runner Up: Judy Fogarty 35. Winner – Wangaratta: Jacqui Hoggan 32. Runner Up: Lois Sanderson 27.
Team scores: Jubilee 582 @ 30.63, Wangaratta 359 @ 22.43. Balls: Di Murphy 34, Liz Collihole 34, Sue Clayton 33, Josie Fitzsimons 32, Linda Stone 32,
have much or any experience using a firearm before, however by the conclusion of the event, their capabilities in using a gun demonstrated that with a bit more practice they could easily become very proficient in the sport.
From the club’s point of view, it was very satisfying to observe a local business group in arranging their corporate day at the grounds at North Wangaratta and a look of satisfaction and lots of smiles on their departure.
For more details, contact Bob Glossop on 0427 621 195.
LEARNING TOGETHER: The team from Grisham Signs took to the range at North Wangaratta recently for a corporate team event.
Robyn Ottaway 32. NTPs - 4th: Liz Collihole, 8th: Robyn Ottaway, 13th: Josie Fitzsimons, 17th: Ange Mitchell. Wednesday, 17 September
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Nigel Cooper C/B 36. B Grade winner: Ray Hyland 36. C Grade winner: Bernie Grealy 37.
Ball winners: Stan Goldsworthy C/B 36, Stephen McNaughton 36, Gary Butler C/B 35, Brendon Essex C/B 35, Brian Thomas 35, Michael Baillie 34, Pat Ernst C/B 34, Neville Hogan C/B 34, Trevor Nippress C/B 34.
NTPs - 4th: Steve Fisher, 8th: Stephen McNaughton, 13th: Gary Butler, 17th: Gordon Paterson.
Men’s 9 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Michael Tanner 19. B Grade winner: Fred Porter C/B 20.
Ball winners: Garry Dickson 20, Peter Walker 18, Joseph Marjanovic Jnr C/B 16, Ray Gibbs C/B 16.
NTPs - 4th: Joseph Marjoanovic Jnr, 8th: Chris O’Keefe.
Thursday, 18 September
Ladies 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Robyn Grealy 15. Ball winners: Robyn Harrison 15.
WANG GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending 14 September
Tuesday, 9 September
Women’s 18 Hole Stroke Event.
Winner: Janette Collier 77 nett
C/B. Runner Up: Lorraine Adams 77 nett C/B.
Ball Winners: Helen Tate, Jill Halbwidl.
NTPs - 2nd: Lorraine Adams, 4th: Sue Mcall.
September Monthly Medal
Winner: Carolyn Sullivan 76 nett. Runner Up: Janette Collier 77 nett C/B.
Least Putts: Barb Thomas 27 putts.
Wednesday, 10 September
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: David Woodstock 38 points. Runner Up: Bill Dodd 36 points C/B.
Ball Winners: Stephen Smith, Arnold Sparks, Chris Oates, Matthew Walsh, Trevor Trimble, Michael Webster
NTP 2nd: Kurt Schubert, 4th: Trevor Trimble, 7th: Stephen Smith, 13th: Chris Oates, 18th: Chris Oates.
9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Leonard Chandler 21 points. Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 17 points.
Saturday, 13 September
Men’s Competition 18 Hole Stableford Event
A Grade Winner: Scott Thomson 40 points C/B. A Grade Runners Up: Jeremy Winter 40 points C/B.
B Grade Winner: Bobby Hutchieson 42 points. B Grade Runners Up: Jack Dean 39 points.
C Grade Winner: Geoffrey Webster 40 points C/B. C Grade Runners Up: Joshua Camilleri 40 points.
Ball Winners: David O’Brien, Nick Jones, Stuart Bowman, Trevor Clark, Cooper Drury, Callum Honey, Gregory Sullivan, Hudson Membrey, Neil McKinnon.
NTPs – 2nd: Rodney Godde, 4th: Scott Thomson, 7th: Andrew Stevens, 13th: Stuart Bowman, 16th: Ian Rundell, 18th: Craig Henwood.
Domino’s Voucher NTP 10th 2nd Shot: Andrew Storer. RSL Voucher NTP 12th - 2nd Shot: Dale Carmody Birdies: Subway - Christopher Martens. KFC - Bobby Hutchieson.
Secret 6: Gregory Sullivan.
Raffle Winner: Callum Honey.
Women’s 18 Hole Stableford
Event
Winner: Barbara Thomas 35 points C/B. Runner Up: Macie Thomson.
NTPs – 2nd: Macie Thomson, 18th: Macie Thomson.
Sunday, 14 September
Medley Competition
18 Hole Stroke event
Winner: Cooper Clark 38 points. Runner Up: Jock Rogers 37 points.
TARRA GOLF CLUB
The members played a 2 person Ambrose which was won by Leo McCoy and Lindsay Steer 75.10.1/4 63.3/4.
The runner up Ken Miller and Angelo Garraffo nett 68.3/4.
Nearest the pins for the day on the fourth was Ken Miller.
On Monday, 15 September, four members travelled to Rutherglen to play in a round of the Corowa Veterans with Ken Miller winning A Grade with 37pts.
Runner up was Leo McCoy with 36pts, and Pete Nolan was runner up in B Grade, beaten on a countback with 40 pts.
Golf to be played on Saturday,
20 September will be a Stableford event for the Bill & Mary McCormack memorial day - ladies are asked to please attend this very special day and all members to bring a plate.
Starting times are 11.30am rollup for a 12pm start.
WANG CROQUET
Results for Monday, 15 September are as follows: Cheryle Beckley and Maureen O’Keefe d Joan Dyson and Christine Ireland 7/4, Janet Kelly and Robyn Muller d Terry Wilson and Jed Hart 7/4, Nathan Reynolds d Elise Downes 7/2.
On Saturday, our 97-year-old member, Wendy Waddington, after trying for many years, finally managed to score a hoop-in-one.
A hoop-in-one is when your ball is in, beside or behind a hoop and when played, it runs the next hoop in order.
Also of interest is that Janet Kelly who has recently had eye surgery is still able to run hoops from some distance and on severe angles, even though, at times, she cannot actually see the hoop.
On Monday, Joan Dyson ran a hoop from 20m.
On Wednesday, Julie Sheahan, with the score at six all managed to dislodge an opponent ball and run hoop 13 to win the game.
Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
Friday, 12 September to Sunday, 14 September - Murrindindi Scenic Reserve.
A group of 31 walkers descended upon the township of Yea and the Riverside Caravan Park for two days of walks within the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, a park situated in the northern end of the Toolangi State Forest.
We met Friday evening at 8pm in the caravan park’s meeting room for a briefing about Saturday’s walks.
Three walks were planned: one
involved the complete Murrindindi River Walk of about 12km, a shortened version of the same walk at about 8km, and a longer mix of the river walk and the Boroondara loop, which involved an ascent to the Wilhelmina Falls, to create an adventure of almost 17km.
Saturday began with all walks starting at the Cascades Picnic Area located at the southern end of the reserve.
To facilitate the three different walks from the same location but with three different end points required 10 cars and an essential car shuffle.
It wasn’t long before each of the three groups spread out - the long walk group continued after a sizeable break.
At the Bull Creek Road there is a bridge which you must cross to then continue along the river walk trail.
This trail encompasses several foot bridges, some short steep hills, occasional steps through a variety of open forest to damp fern gullies.
It genuinely is a picturesque walk.
Near the 10km mark we turned to begin the Wilhelmina Falls ascent, and lunch was taken at a picnic table with a supposed view of the falls.
Continuing to the top of the falls, we rested again before the final 4km leg of the trail, which completes the Boroondara Loop. There was still some uphill to be walked and then a long strenuous descent.
This group finally reached the end which required a short walk along Falls Creek Road to the car at the Ferns Camp.
Coming Events
Friday, 26 September and/or Saturday, 27 September and/or Sunday, 28 September.
A weekend in the Warby Ovens National Park walking the Warbys south to north and the Killawarra Forest to Peechelba, plus much shorter walks in the Killawarra. Andy, 0439 209 749 - please contact by early next week to book into the one-, two-, or three-day walks.
For more details check https:// warbybushwalkers.org.au/wpcontent/uploads/Walks-ProgramJuly-Sep2025.pdf.
By RICHARD MORGAN and PHOEBE MORGAN
On a warm spring night last Monday, 15 September, 26 players descended on the Oxley Hall where after a short time, table tennis bats were heating up with constant games played on all four tables.
New faces and seasoned attendees enjoyed the friendly social event.
Neil Spurgeon teamed up with Adrian Brunken to take on Gary Coad and Debbie Brunken.
With bats fully charged it was full on from start to finish.
The lucky shots and many impossible points made sure the game went down to the wire.
Smiles all round suggested one team won.
Clive Brooker and Kate Cole along with early start-
ers Jason Mullins and Cheryl Cole had a no-holds-barred approach.
With Clive’s serves being dished up and Kate winning returns Jason and Cheryl had plenty of opportunities to get a win.
No scores were recorded, but huge smiles suggested a great game was had by all.
Granddad Neil Brock teamed up with ‘I’m Back’ Theo Poulus against Brock’s granddaughter, Harper Nethercote and Graham Stephens.
The ‘young pair’ put the pressure on early, but the ‘older’ young ones proved after all their games had too much experience and scraped home: just. Hot off the press, Phoebe Morgan, teamed up with Manni Poulos to take on umpire dad Richard Morgan and Neil Brock.
TABLE TENNIS TRIAL OF TWO NEILS: (from left) Neil Spurgeon and Neil Brock took on Don Heath and Bruce Fletcher, powering through the points in quick succession.
GOOD GAME: (from left) A chorus of congratulations followed Martin Butcher and Graham Stephens’ match against David Harris and Steve Van Der Poel after a tense final bout of gameplay.
After a number of long exchanges, Phoebe and Manni had the early lead.
Neil’s return off the wall and back on the table was judged as ‘no good’ by an independent jury.
A fast comeback was almost on the cards, but Phoebe and Manni scraped home by two points. At one point, a table of the youngest players was formed with Jacob Hardiman and Harper Nethercote versus
Hugh Spring and Ryan Van Der Poel.
The gentlemen for once going at a reasonably slow pace to accommodate the hall’s newest player, but in the end, all used their youthly agility to dodge, weave and catch projectiles flying to all corners of the table.
Janet ‘I’m Here to Win’ Heath teamed up with Cheryl Coad to take on ‘The Don’ Heath and Richard Morgan. With the boys all smug,
thinking it was going to be a ‘walk in the hall’, six points ahead; Janet and Cheryl were not giving up.
True to form they snuck home, winning by two points and left Don and Richard thinking; ‘what just happened?’
Teams swapped tables all evening, with Will Bonwick and Steve Van Der Poel taking on David Harris and Bruce Fletcher, with a high-stakes shootout
seemingly at every point. To keep fleet of feet, Martin Butcher and June Uebergang took on team Van Der Poel at the central table, with Steve and Ryan victorious, by a measly three points. Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley hall at 7pm every Monday night: BYO bat, $2 and a plate of savoury or sweet snacks to share.
After a rollercoaster home and away season, the under 16 girls United team, representing Corowa and Wangaratta, entered last Friday night’s preliminary final against Norths as determined underdogs.
From the first whistle, both sides played with intensity, showcasing sharp passing and creating early scoring chances.
By quarter time, the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0.
Midway through the second quarter, Norths broke the deadlock, converting a chance in front of goal to take a narrow one-goal lead into half-time, but the United girls didn’t flinch.
They returned to the field with renewed grit and dominated the second half with relentless pressure and teamwork.
Goalkeeper Meegan Davey was a pillar of reliability, backed by the formidable defensive duo of Macy Douch and Maddi Reid, who proved impenetrable.
Their efforts consistently fed the ball into midfield, where Sienna Davis, Lily Rad-
HONOURED: MAT VOGEL WAS NAMED DIVISION TWO MEN BEST AND FAIREST.
nor, Sophie Shallue, and Lexi Seabright ran tirelessly to maintain momentum and set up attacking plays.
Up front, strikers Rahni Sorenson, Amelia McLeice, and Bea Zabenko kept the Norths defence on edge, with multiple opportunities created in front of goal.
United’s intensity was unwavering, keeping the ball in their attacking half for most of the second half.
With just two minutes remaining, Rahni found the back of the net, igniting a roar
from the crowd and levelling the score at 1-1.
The team surged forward with urgency, desperate to clinch the win, but time ran out before they could strike again.
Under Hockey Albury Wodonga rules, a tied match sees the team higher on the ladder advance and, sadly, this meant the end of the season for the United girls.
Despite the result, their performance was nothing short of inspirational.
They played with heart,
AND
Wangaratta
took out the top honour in the division two women’s grade.
courage, and unity, making both the Corowa and Wangaratta Hockey Clubs incredibly proud.
accept his award, while Kate Reilly took out the top honour in the division three women’s grade.
Meanwhile, the Hockey Albury Wodonga senior presentation night on Monday was a chance to celebrate the incredible season of competitive sport across the region, and highlight those who are a class above.
The Dragons were well represented on the night, with Mat Vogel named division two best and fairest, who was unable to attend the night to
Now in her fourth year at the club, Kate is a proud and active Dragons member, serving as the junior engagement officer on the committee, cocoaching the under 12 girls, and co-captaining the senior team alongside Emma Gall, who also polled third in the vote count, making it a standout achievement for the club.
Reilly and the Dragons are into this weekend’s grand
final, hoping to break a substantial drought for the club.
“It’s been a privilege to play with the Dragons this yearI’m really honoured to receive this award,” she said.
“It’s so rewarding to share the field with such an amazing group of ladies, and I wouldn’t be here without the support of my teammates.
“The Dragons have had a very successful season, and I’m hopeful we’ll be able to celebrate this accolade even more after the grand final this weekend - that would be the icing on the cake.
“It’s been years since the Dragons last won a premiership, and I’m determined to help lead our team to victory.”
Vogel said he was enjoying his new role in the middle of the action.
“It’s my first year as a midfielder in 19 years of playing hockey - with that said, I couldn’t have played as well if I didn’t have such a great team of people who are keen to learn and adapt new skills,” he said.
“I really appreciated all the support of family, friends and the Wangaratta Hockey Club.”
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Almost a month after the final siren blared on the season, the North East Border Female Football League is back in action this weekend with a day of interleague clashes.
Set for Saturday, 20 September at Wangaratta’s WJ Findlay Oval, NEBFFL will host the Goulburn Murray Women and Girls League (GMW&G) in an under 18 game and an open women’s match, setting the stage for a day full of footy fun for all.
NEBFFL operations manager Matthew Elliott said the traditional interleague format had to be reworked due to some issues arising during the year.
“The league has played representative fixtures since 2023 against GMW&G and Central Victoria, in a roundrobin style carnival with a final in each grade to complete the day,” he said.
“The matches were planned for May initially, however due to some unforeseen challenges within all camps, we elected to reschedule the matches to September.
“Central Victoria was unable to join us this year, so we amended the carnival format to be a full game in both grades.
“This year is our turn to host within the three-year cycle of hosting responsibili-
By SHANE DOUTHIE
Local Para athlete Kate Fawkner literally left her hospital bed to fly to Brisbane to compete in the Oceania Masters Athletics Championships in early September, winning two gold medals in her chosen events, discus and shot put.
It was the first time the Oceania Masters Games included Para athletes in the competition, with athletes from 22 countries competing across five days of competition in track and field, cross country, racewalking and multis events.
Fawkner had been in hospital for 26 weeks after suffering a severe head injury after taking a fall while training at the Appin Street Athletics complex.
While in hospital surgeons discovered Fawkner had a brain tumour, and suffered from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), an inherited progressive disease of the peripheral nervous system.
But even these hurdles could not present the homegrown athletic champion from competing.
“I was excited to go up there and represent Australia,” she said.
“It wasn’t the ideal preparation but I was determined to get the doctors to allow me to compete.”
Fawkner competed in the F7 W60-65 age group winning gold in both her pet events, power seated shot put and discus.
On her return, Fawkner received a letter from the Royal Melbourne Hospital arranging an appointment with a surgeon, yet another challenge ahead for an athlete who refuses to allow life’s hurdles from achieving her goals.
ties - last year we travelled to Bendigo for the carnival and finished runner-up in both grades.
“The interleague fixture is important as it brings together the competitions best players who can learn from
each other, and even players who are not selected in the final team can take something new back to their home club.
“It gives the players an opportunity to play at a level above club football which is going to benefit the stand-
ard and development of our league over time.”
While the change from a mid-season interleague carnival to a more traditional head-to-head interleague fixture - albeit a month after the season had finished - was un-
usual, Elliott said there were some advantages.
“Our NEBFFL teams commenced training two weeks after our NEBFFL grand finals, and have had three weeks of preparation time leading into Saturday’s matches,” he said.
“The timing has aligned well with our region’s VLine Cup teams playing next week.
“Further, the post-season scheduling means there are no clashes with club duties which gives the league greater flexibility with the training venue and player availability, and players don’t have to miss time with their home club to attend our training.”
Rovers Bron McGorlick and Jess Whitehead will coach the under 18 team, with Rovers Clare Collins, Gemma Couch Trinder, Lily Currie and Lily Gibb all making the cut, while Amy Collins, Rebekah Di Paola, Chloe Kungl and Kaea Tua have been named in the open women’s team.
Entry to WJ Findlay Oval is free on Saturday, with the under 18s kicking the day off at 11am, before the open women’s match at 1pm.
Cricket season is just around the corner and local club Rovers United Bruck Cricket Club is kicking off its junior preparations with its annual junior muster day tomorrow.
To be held at the WJ Findlay Oval, the club is calling on all existing under 16, under 14 and under 12 players for its first session of the season, which will begin at 10am.
As well as existing players, the club encourages any other players from grades 5 through to year 9 to come along if they are wanting to get involved.
“It’s a great opportunity to get together a few weeks out from the season and get the kids back into it,” club vice president Jeremy Wilson said.
“We are looking forward to welcoming new and existing players back to the fold and want to provide an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
“We are playing in coloured shirts across all grades this year which is great as most kids these days love the T20 cricket.”
A barbecue lunch will follow for all in attendance. For more information, please contact 0434271287 or email info@rubcc.com.au.
By SHANE DOUTHIE
As further evidence of the strength of football and netball in the rural city, Wangaratta Magpies were awarded the O&M league’s Roadsafe Northeast Overall Club Championship title, edging Wangaratta Rovers out by just three points 179 - 176.
Rovers amassed 93 points across all football grades to take out the league’s overall football title, while Rovers netball scored 83 points across all grades.
That compared to Magpies 64 points for football and awardwin-
■ From the back page Wangaratta Magpies thirds coach Chris Knowles - a former Hawkwill start the day in charge of the ‘Pies lads and then aim to continue his fantastic run of form against his old club in the senior clash.
Magpies C-grader Brooke Henwood and her partner, Rovers footballer Will Nolan, have the chance to snare rare dual back-to-back flags, after their amazing effort in 2024.
Not surprisingly, considering Wangaratta’s ingrained passion for sport, family connections run deep both through and between the rival clubs.
In the Rovers’ two netball grand final teams, mother and daughter Samantha and Lily Lyster will be out to bring home a double as they both compete for the Hawks.
Two sets of brothers will be part of Magpies premiership bids - Xavier and Hamish Laverty, and Cooper and Blake Newton (Xavier and Blake in the seniors and Hamish and Cooper in the thirds); the New-
ning 115 points across all grades of netball.
Wodonga Raiders secured the overall O&M netball club championship with an astonishing 143 points with teams playing off on Sunday in 15 and under, 17 and under, and A grade.
OMFNL general manager Kane Arendarcikas paid tribute to the Wangaratta club’s success in a particularly competitive season in all disciplines.
“In what has been one of the most competitive seasons of O&M football and netball in recent memory,
it is no surprise that the Roadsafe Northeast Overall Club Championship went right to the wire,” Arendarcikas said.
“The O&M congratulates the Wangaratta FNC for an excellent season, and with five teams across football and netball involved in finals, will no doubt be looking to add to the trophy cabinet before the season is completed.”
Magpies president Jon Henry was understandably proud of the award, which he said reflected the overall strength of the club.
“I would like to give a big shout
out to all our coaches through all the grades in football and netball,” Henry said.
“We pride ourselves on bringing strong mentors into the club who each make a difference to the players individually and as a team, ably led by our senior football coach Jason Heatley and senior netball coach Shea Cunningham.
“And of course our hard working volunteers and generous sponsors, who make it all possible to have three football and four netball sides take to the field and court each week.”
Join in the O&M grand final prematch build-up
You don’t have to be an elite footballer of netballer to be a part of the build-up for this year’s O&M grand final.
Both Wangaratta clubs are holding open football training sessions at their respective home grounds on Friday evening with training for both expected to begin around 6pm.
At the Norm Minns Oval the Magpies will be operating their Riverside Bar from 5pm as well as offering roast beef rolls for sale and encourage supporters and sports fans to go along to see the players enjoy their last hit-out.
tons’ grandfather, Laurie, played in the Magpies’ 1976 premiership.
Brothers Darcy and Mitch Booth - whose dad Mark was a member of the 1977 Rovers premiership team - will be part of the Hawk reserves’ tilt, with Darcy as co-coach. There are also brotherly connections across the Rovers’ senior and reserves outfits, including Will and Sam Nolan, Joel and Kyle Smith, Joe and Sam Allen, and Alex and Harrison McCarthy.
Lauren Flynn, whose dad Eddie
played in the Rovers’ ‘77 flag, will look to mirror her father’s feat from 48 years ago when she lines up in the C grade grand final against the Magpies, to top off a season in which she notched her 150th game.
Connor Crimmins, whose late father Chris and sister Chaye both played 200 games with the Magpies, will wear the brown and gold of the Hawks in the reserves grand final.
Rovers’ Charlie Thompson will be out to snare a flag with the Hawks, just as his grandfather Des
Wangaratta Rovers invite the Hawk supporters and the wider community to the WJ Findlay Oval to experience the footballers going through their paces, before joining them upstairs in the clubrooms for a lasagne dinner with the bar open. You can even purchase some club merchandise at each venue so you are in your team’s colours for the grand final weekend and celebrations afterwards.
Steele did with the Magpies in 1961 and ‘76, and in the reverse scenario, Magpie seniors co-captain Jackson Clarke is in reach of the premiership glory his grandfather Les enjoyed with Rovers in 1958 and ‘60.
Sophia Pasquali could follow in the footsteps of her three-time Rovers premiership-winning uncle Anthony if her under 17 Rovers team takes the chocolates.
And the Magpies’ Jasper Craven, who moved south from Queensland in 2025 to play with dad Danny’s for-
mer club, would love to help pen a fairytale finale to the season’s script. That’s just a taste of what’s on offer at Lavington on Sunday, and surely enough to whet the appetite of anyone who loves the unpredictability of live sport.
More broadly, the day illustrates the health of the two Wangaratta clubs and the passion surrounding them; the value of that to a city continuing to emerge from the impact of a historic pandemic cannot be underestimated.
If ever there was a means to kindle the flame of rivalry between Wangaratta’s two Ovens and Murray clubs in the modern age, it’s a derby grand final.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
clubs
heading down the Hume to the rural city on Sunday evening.
Talk of the derby is on the lips of just about every sports fan and history buff in the district this week who - no matter their allegiance - will be chuffed that more O&M silverware will be
The enormity of the impending occasion settled on anyone watching the dying minutes of Sunday’s senior preliminary final at Birallee Park, as Wangaratta Magpies booked a grand final showdown with nextdoor neighbours Wangaratta Rovers.
The clash is indeed history in the making; it’s 48 years since the two clubs have met in a senior football decider, and it will be only the fifth time they’ve done so since the Rovers joined the league in 1950.
Their previous clashes were back-to-back meetings in 1964-’65 and 1976-’77.
The Hawks won the first two encounters, led by Ken Boyd against Ron Critchley’s ‘Pies, while Wangaratta notched its first premiership against its cross-lane foes under the guidance of Phil Nolan in 1976 - much to the chagrin of Neville Hogan’s men.
The following year, the Rovers (this time coached by Darryl Smith) reversed the result in the clubs’ most recent grand final meeting.
Officially, modern-day supporters will tell you that any friction between the Golf Links Lane neighbours belongs to another era.
Off the record, though, it’s a different story - and there’s a fair chance those sentiments will bubble over in the cauldron of the Lavington Sports Ground, where the Hawks and ‘Pies will also contest the C grade netball grand final.
In other matches with a Wangaratta flavour, the Rovers reserves and Magpies thirds both take on Lavington in their respective encounters, while the Rovers’ under 17 netballers meet Wodonga Raiders on the hilltop netball court. Everywhere you look, there are delicious little subplots running parallel to Sunday’s games…
■ Continued page 47