DEMO CREW
CITY’S NEW NEST
State government funds 34 apartments to be built at former Ovens College site to
The state government has provided the missing link in a project to build 175 social, affordable and key worker apartments at Wangaratta’s former Ovens College site.
State Treasurer Jaclyn Symes visited the Greta Road site on Friday to announce funding for 34 new apartments for key worker housing under the $150 million round two of the Victorian Government’s Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.
BY STEVE KELLY
skelly@ nemedia.com.au
Nestd Development acquired the site off Rural City of Wangaratta Council and demolition works of the old college have commenced.
Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) will be a frontrunning organisation that will access the worker accommodation by leasing
several of the 34 units or 51 beds.
The key worker apartments will range from 1-2 storeys and 1-2 bedrooms, all 7-star in energy efficiency and they’re expected to be built within the next 12 months.
Ms Symes or Nestd would not disclose how much of the $150 million will be spent on the 34 Wangaratta apartments and they cited commercial-inconfidence as the reason.
Nestd executive director Greg Muller would also not disclose how much would be granted by the federal government, however, Indi MP Helen Haines has been working to secure $10 million over recent years.
Mr Muller said it was an opportunity to build homes, but it’s a difficult landscape in regional towns in terms of making it work financially.
“Government subsidy and grant is core to achiev-
ing that outcome, and we’re very proud to be able to deliver that for the state and also for the region of Wangaratta,” he said.
“We speak to employers all the time and their biggest challenge in order to growing their business is finding workers to come to the region and attracting them to the region.
“We see our responsibility at Nestd as building mixed use precincts that provide a
large volume of housing at scale but also affordably.”
It’s expected for construction to start in the first half of 2026 and the apartments will be completed by July next year.
Nestd executive director Alan Takle said sustainability was a large part of the project and the buildings will have solar arrays and battery storage, aiming for a net zero operational target.
■ Continued page 2
Nestd executive directors Greg Muller (left) and Alan Takle with state Treasurer Jaclyn Symes at the construction site of the new key worker accommodation apartments. Some 34 new dwellings will be built at the former Ovens College site by July next year.
PHOTO: Steve Kelly
Kitty Flanagan brings Gladgame to Wangaratta
Comedian Kitty Flanagan is returning to Wangaratta in November with her new stand-up show Gladgame, asking (but not necessarily answering) all the big questions. Were we smarter before social media, has your call ever been used for training purposes, and what exactly is an empath?
See the award-winning star of Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? doing what she does best, stand-up comedy, live on stage at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Wednesday, November 5 at 8pm with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.
Man fails to dispute drug possession charge
A man who was caught with drugs after appearing to police with significant face injuries had his appeal against the legality of a police drug search denied.
The 24-year-old, formerly from Mulwala, appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday disputing the reasonability of a search by police on the night of 31 May last year.
The court heard officers were alerted to a suspicious car parked on the driveway of the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Faithfull Street around 9:15pm.
The 24-year-old exited the driver’s seat with a bloodied face, a black eye, a missing tooth and with a golf club at the back of his jumper.
After refusing to give context to his injuries, officers searched the man’s small bag
and found 30 zanax tablets which prompted a search of the car.
Inside the car was 132g of cannabis located in the passenger’s side.
Paramedics arrived and took the 24-year-old to Northeast Health Wangaratta while he was placed under arrest for drug possession.
Defence counsel Harrison Charles disputed the legality of the police search, saying there was no reasonable risk for officers to search the man’s bag or car where the drugs were stored.
Mr Charles said his client was compliant and not under any erratic state when speaking with police and it was not indicated why he had his bag and car searched.
The court heard the 24-year-old was homeless and living in his car at the time.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said there was a number of reasons police had appropriate suspicion to search the man, including the risk of weapons being found and to ensure the safety of themselves and paramedics arriving to attend to the man’s injuries.
Magistrate Simon Zebrowski said the search of the man seemed reasonable, especially given the man’s history of drug offences.
“I’ve heard some fast and loose reasons for searches to be done for drugs, but this doesn’t seem to me like one of them,” he said.
The 24-year-old made a guilty plea and will be sentenced at Cobram Magistrates’ Court on 16 September, when he will plea guilty to other matters.
State government funds key worker accommodation at Greta Road site
■ From page 1
“This will reduce the cost of energy to the residents and the actual buildings themselves are 7-stars and we’re designing them to be a green star community,” he said.
“We’re designing them to meet the needs of workers and they will be fully furnished, they will be delivered through high quality modular construction which also aids and expedites the development of the site, enabling us to meet the timeframes from government.”
Council put out an EOI requesting submissions in 2022 from groups to develop the land and Nestd was successful.
After meeting several planning requirements, Nestd acquired the land earlier this year.
City Mayor Irene Grant described the project as important for the city and one that council has been involved with for several years.
“We’ve had the site in council’s possession since 2012 and we’ve wondered what could be done with the site,” Cr Grant said.
“It was always a site that needed to have community benefit from it and I think with what Nestd have proposed to us, it has community benefit written all over it.
“I am absolutely in admiration of Alan and Greg from Nestd for their persistence and the fact they have kept at this because at one stage it looked like it might not go ahead.”
A figure of $50 million has been touted in the past as the cost for the 175 apartments, with upwards of $10 million required from the federal government to allow the rest of the build, including social housing, to take place.
As part of the overall complex there will be 22 social housing units and Nestd will be given
a municipal rates concession on these futurebuilt dwellings.
Another nine apartments are being built on Dixon Street near the hospital to accommodate health workers at Northeast Health Wangaratta.
“What we recognised in Wangaratta and this
region is that we have a wonderful hospital, it’s a great place to work, but it’s really hard to attract people to come and work in that faciality when the housing options are either not there or they’re substandard,” Ms Symes said.
“These plans will offer beautiful housing for people and remove those barriers.”
GREEN LIT: Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant, Treasurer Jaclyn Symes, and Greg Muller and Alan Takle from Nested with the architectural drawings.
HEALTH BOOST: Nine apartments are being built on Dixon Street near the hospital to accommodate health workers at Northeast Health Wangaratta.
Keep community safe with responsible syringe disposal
By JORDAN DUURSMA
North East Water (NEW) have reported a significant rise in syringes being improperly disposed of into the Wangaratta sewer system.
A NEW spokesperson said this poses a serious risk to their staff and local plumbers.
“Not only can syringes cause injury to our workers, but they block pipes and damage critical infrastructure,” they said.
“Please dispose of ‘sharps’ responsibly, use designated sharps disposal containers and drop off at approved collection points.
“Let’s work together to keep our community safe and our wastewater systems running smoothly.”
The Rural City of Wangaratta is aware of recent concerns raised by NEW regarding improper syringe disposal in the community.
RCoW director of community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan said sharps left in public areas pose serious risks to public health and safety, especially for children, pets, and maintenance workers, and can also impact the health of local waterways.
“To keep our community safe, used syringes should never be placed in household bins, recycling, or flushed down toilets,” he said.
Council operates a syringe return program that provides free sharps containers, which can be collected from customer service and returned either there or to the Wangaratta Transfer Station.
Participating pharmacies and hospitals also offer safe disposal options.
For more information or to report hazardous waste, contact council’s customer service team on (03) 5722 0888 or report an issue via council’s website.
Gateway Health Wangaratta Alcohol and Other Drugs team leader Renee Simmons said improper syringe disposal is a real issue across the Hume region, but it’s often made worse by shame, stigma and lack of facilities.
“Syringes aren’t just used for illegal substances, they’re also used by people with chronic health conditions like diabetes,” she said.
Victim of alleged stabbing to make statement in court
A victim who was left paralysed after an alleged drunken Wangaratta stabbing has been ordered to give a statement in court.
RESPONSIBLE DISPOSAL: There are multiple location to access free sharps containers in Wangaratta, including Gateway Health, council and other participating pharmacies and hospitals.
PHOTO: New Africa/Shutterstock.com
An 18-year-old Wangaratta accused appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday after he was charged with stabbing a 37-year-old Wangaratta man in the arm and torso in an allegedly unprovoked attack on the night of 25 April.
Prosecutor Joshua Sheppherd said the victim had refused to give a statement following the incident and police applied to have the man ordered to be examined at court.
The 37-year-old was allegedly left paralysed and “unlikely to walk again” after the court heard in April the alleged stabbing caused a laceration on the arm, left a puncture wound to the spine and partially tore a spinal cord.
The 18-year-old spent six days in custody after the alleged incident before being released on strict bail conditions, including a curfew, a ban from licenced premises and drinking alcohol, and to always be accompanied by a family member or support worker if out of the house.
Gateway Health offers free sterile equipment, sharps containers and health education to anyone in the community.
Ms Simmons said you don’t have to be a client.
“We’re here to reduce harm and keep everyone safer,” she said.
“We also provide free Naloxone at our Wodonga and Wangaratta sites,
which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save a life.
“It’s easy to use, nonaddictive and available to anyone who needs it.
“Community safety
starts with access and respect and we’ll continue working with councils and local services to improve safe disposal options and support for everyone.”
Ambos improve response times to code one emergencies in Wangaratta
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
Ambulance Victoria (AV) has improved its response times to code one emergencies within the Rural City of Wangaratta.
The latest statistics released last week indicate AV responded to 565 code one emergencies in the municipality from April to the end of June this year, arriving within the optimal 15 minutes 71.5 per cent of the time.
That is up on 68.5 per cent the previous three months and is the highest response rate for the year.
The average response time of 15.18 minutes is also the best since 14.31 in July to September last year. Code one incidents in the city itself totalled 447 with 82.6 per cent of cases responded to within the 15 minute target, with an average response time of 12.36 minutes.
That was the strongest performance in the past year. AV responded to a further 377 code two emergencies within the municipality from April to the
end of June, with the average response time of 44.05 minutes being higher than the last quarter’s average of 42.58 minutes.
Across the Hume region, AV crews responded to 5503 code one cases between April and June 2025, down from 5623 last year, but up from 5451 three months ago.
The biggest improvements in the region were in the Moira, Mansfield, Strathbogie and Greater Shepparton LGAs and the major population centre of Kilmore.
In the Moira LGA, paramedics attended 55 per cent of code one patients within 15 minutes – up from 46.6 per cent a year ago.
In the major population centre of Kilmore, paramedics attended 72.2 per cent of code one patients within 15 minutes – up from
67.9 per cent a year ago.
In the Mansfield LGA, paramedics attended 44.3 per cent of code one patients within 15 minutes –up from 38 per cent a year ago.
Compared with a year ago, code one response times decreased by 55 seconds in the Greater Shepparton LGA and 39 seconds in the Strathbogie LGA.
In the Alpine Shire, the average respone time dropped 27 seconds on the previous quarter to sit at 22.05 minutes, while Indigo Shire remains one of the worst in the state at meeting response times within 15 minutes, sitting at 22 per cent.
AV is urging people not to be complacent, with demand for emergency ambulances climbing again as winter illnesses spread through the community.
“We’ve already seen a
3.7 per cent jump in code one demand since the first three months of 2025,” Hume regional director Narelle Capp said.
“Winter is always our busiest time.
“Our paramedics are focused on reaching the sickest patients first, but every day more than 500 calls to Triple Zero (000) don’t need an emergency ambulance.
“There are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need an emergency ambulance, including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and Urgent Care Clinics.
“Our expert Secondary Triage team - made up of nurses and paramedics - plays a vital role by connecting people with the right care and freeing up ambulances for life-threat -
ening emergencies.
“Between April and June alone, they redirected 46,015 non-urgent cases away from an emergency response.”
Ms Capp said Ambulance Victoria is working closely with hospitals, emergency services and government partners to keep ambulances on the road and patients moving through the system.
“The new Standards for Safe and Timely Ambulance and Emergency Care are already making a difference by improving patient flow in hospitals and helping our crews get back on the road sooner,” Ms Capp said.
“We’re grateful to our hospital partners for their efforts...it’s helping us reach more patients, faster.”
Magistrate Simon Zebrowski granted the compulsory victim examination which will be heard at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 22 October.
The 18-year-old will re-appear for further committal mention at Wangaratta on 6 November.
Uneven railway station entrance to undergo permanent repairs
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
The new look Wangaratta railway precinct is set to undergo repairs after a sunken surface was identified at the station’s entrance.
An Inland Rail spokesperson said concrete cracking and an uneven surface was identified by crews last weekend and a safe remediation has been created until the entrance works are rectified.
“The station entrance still requires Wangaratta heritage interpretative signage to complete this area,” they said.
“Inland Rail and our construction contractor McConnell Dowell, continue to work together for project completion.
“Final inspections and defect identification is in progress.”
The $70 million Inland Rail project at Wangaratta was officially opened in May and included building of a new west track and platform for northbound traffic, installation of accessibility infrastructure and new carparking on the east and west sides of the station.
No cause of damage to the footpath was given by the Inland Rail spokesperson.
Help shape a simpler future with CAV
Dry, frosty start to the month
Belly dancers and new venue for city’s relay
Monday, 10 August, 2015
By SHANE DOUTHIE
Wangaratta’s Relay for Life will this year become one of the few relays in regional Victoria to offer access for people with disability thanks to the cycling track at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
This will be the first year the relay has been held at the showgrounds after the past seven years at the WJ Findlay Oval.
“Although this is only a trial, we are excited to be able to offer access for people with disability so they can join in the walk as well,” said Tammy Atkins, Relay For Life chair.
Members of the organising committee inspected the showgrounds on Thursday and were excited about the possibilities of the new venue.
“The committee is grateful for their involvement and very much looking forward to giving belly dancing a go,” Ms Atkins said.
KaZena from ABCA said belly dance is good for the body and good for the soul and the group was hoping to have plenty of fun-loving people come and join them.
In further news the Alpine Contemporary Bellydancing Academy (ACBA) has confirmed that they will be performing at Wangaratta’s Relay for Life on September 26 and 27.Â
“ACBA’s performance will be suitable for all ages and will include colourful costumes and interesting choreography and importantly there’ll be an interactive session,” Ms Atkins said.Â
“ABCA is the only professional contemporary belly dance school in North East Victoria and they’re keen to support Wangaratta’s Relay for Life and are wavering their usual performance fee.
Ms Atkins again thanked the Wangaratta Rovers Football and Netball Club for their support over the previous seven years and said the committee will undertake evaluation and strategic planning in early 2016 and consider new and different ways to deliver the event in Wangaratta.
“The ACBA dancers have been based in Wangaratta for the past five years and we love supporting local worthy causes,” she said.
Belly dancing - it’s just an other reason to get involved in this year’s Relay for Life.Â
The committee was also thrilled to say that the sup port for the Wangaratta Relay For Life and the Cancer Council was still growing, with 29 teams now signed up and over $19,000 already raised towards the target of $85,000.
Merry Marchers lead the team fundraising effort at this stage with $9623 fol lowed by Team Ora with $3060 and Kicking Cancer’s Arse on $2290 while Lauren Kneebone with $3614 leads the participants.
NEW HORIZONS: Wangaratta Relay For Life committee members (from left) Sammy Bender, Isabel Dunstan, Tammy Atkins, Vicki Bear and Kerryn Lee in the Wangaratta Magpies’ clubrooms overlooking their new venue for this year’s event. PHOTO: Shane Douthie
Perimenopause event to educate, empower Wangaratta to
By JORDAN DUURSMA
Tickets are now on sale for an empowering afternoon of expert talks, real support and clarity on all things perimenopause, to be held at the Quality Gateway Hotel in Wangaratta from 1pm-5:30pm on Sunday, 31 August.
Skinsational Cosmetic Nursing owner and event organiser, Jess O’Sullivan, said the event is all about starting honest, empowering conversations around a stage of life that’s often misunderstood or swept under the rug.
“We’ve gathered an incredible panel of local women’s health professionals to unpack everything from hormones to mental health, skin changes to libido, and everything in between,” she said.
“Think of it as a supportive, informative afternoon - plus great company, goodie bags, lucky door prizes and a few laughs along the way.”
The afternoon will include Q&A sessions, curated gift bags worth hundreds of dollars, delicious afternoon tea, lucky door prizes, exclusive event-only offers and a safe space to connect with women who get it, featuring expert voices in medicine, psychology, nutrition, exercise, skin and pelvic health to unpack the chaos, answer your questions, and remind you that you’re not going through this alone.
Ms O’Sullivan said at -
tendees can expect to feel seen, heard and a little more prepared.
“It’s not just a sit-andlisten kind of day,” she said.
“We’re creating a space that’s warm, welcoming, and full of real talk.
“Whether you’re curious, confused, or just craving connection, you’ll walk away with clarity and confidence.”
Ms O’Sullivan said the event is filling a gap in education for local women about perimenopause and menopause.
“So many women tell us they feel blindsided by symptoms or brushed off when they ask questions,” she said.
“We wanted to create something that says, ‘you’re not imagining itand you’re not alone’.
“There’s a real need for local, relatable, evidencebased information.
“This event is about bridging that gap and helping women feel informed and empowered to advocate for themselves.
“This isn’t just an event, it’s a movement towards better conversations, better care, and better understanding.
“Whether you’re already navigating perimenopause or just want to be ready when it comes, we’d love you to be part of this day.
“It’s time we normalised the messy, magnificent middle chapter of womanhood.”
be home to machete bin
Wangaratta will be one of 40 homes to a machete disposal bin during a two-month amnesty period, with the community urged to safely dispose of the weapon.
The event is open to everyone in the community, whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s or beyond.
Ms O’Sullivan said this event is for anyone who’s starting to notice changes and wondering “is this normal?”
“We also encourage partners, friends, and support people to come along too,” she said.
“The more we all understand perimenopause and menopause, the better supported women will be at work, at home, and in the community.”
Tickets are available
at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/142617 6134209?aff=oddtdtcre ator.
The bin will be located at Wangaratta’s Handley Street police station from 1 September until 30 November.
There will also be bins stationed at Wodonga and Shepparton police stations.
From the start of September, the possession and sale of machetes without a valid exemption or approval will be banned in Victoria.
Anyone caught owning, carrying, using, buying, or selling a machete could be charged.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Police Anthony Carbines revealed a machete safe disposal bin for the first time last week.
The heavy-duty steel bins are roughly 900 millimetres by 1200 millimetres in size, with a 70-millimetre concrete base to ensure they are secure and have feet to allow for safe removal.
Ms Allan said machetes destroy lives.
“Victorians have zero tolerance for knife crime and so do we – we’re enacting this ban and boosting Victoria Police’s powers because community safety always comes first,” she said.
Mr Carbines said the gov-
ernment was backing Victoria Police, who worked tirelessly to get these weapons out of young people’s hands and keep people safe.
“Our message to anyone with these weapons is simple – get rid of them or face the consequences,” he said.
A public awareness campaign launched which called on Victorians to surrender their machetes during the amnesty or face up to two years imprisonment or a fine of more than $47,000.
Agricultural workers who use machetes as part of their job and machetes that are used in a traditional, historical, or cultural capacity will be exempted.
Anyone covered by an exemption must comply with strict conditions and be able to demonstrate eligibility if asked by police.
The government ordered machetes off shelves with an interim sales ban announced in May, which led to Amazon removing them from sale across the country.
Since then Consumer Affairs Victoria inspected more than 470 retailers to enforce the ban – with only seven stores and one market vendor found to be breaking the law. Further details are available at vic.gov.au/macheteamnesty.
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
Worker housing just the start for project
An eagerly anticipated step in the right direction for the housing development at the former Ovens College site will hopefully bring forward the project’s vision of building 175 new apartments in the city.
The project has been ready and waiting for some time, but now with 34 new apartments for key worker housing fully funded, it’s about time the community get to see the benefits.
With the new housing slated to open by July next year, this will no doubt give the community a huge boost beyond its capacity to home and bolster the local work force, particularly at the hospital.
Of course with the increased employment will come better services and the more people we can house the better for our local economy and businesses.
We now await the investment to come from the federal government to boost the rest of the build which will include social housing, bringing the total number of apartments to 175.
Wangaratta, like most communities throughout Australia, continues to be challenged to meet current and future housing requirements.
Look no further than last week’s homelessness week awareness campaign locally, and it’s easy to see things are going worse before becoming better.
It’s needless to say a substantial investment in social housing, higher rent assistance, and incentives for affordable private rentals and key worker housing is desperately needed, and this first step is greatly welcomed.
Hopefully with the state government coming to the fore, it will bring some further haste in bringing the federal investment forward sooner rather than later.
The Quiz No.147
1. Who won the 2017 Simpson Medal?
2. Which two countries in South America do not share a border with Brazil?
3. Amour is the French word for what?
4. Which game, played on grids, has aircraft carriers, submarines and destroyers?
5. Which country’s former name was Siam?
6. In the sport of skeleton, how many people are on the sled?
7. What is the official currency of Mexico?
8. Which age comes directly after the Bronze Age?
9. Who was the first wife of an Australian Prime Minister to not use her husband’s name?
10. In which country did Lego originate?
11. Which 2009 movie focused on a far-away world called Pandora?
12. What colour are the two stars on the flag of Syria?
13. Who wrote the 2006 memoir, Eat, Pray, Love?
14. What is the most dangerous grade of river in white water rafting?
15. Who had the 1998 hit, Crush?
16. The Loyalty Islands are part of which French territory?
17. A toxophilite is involved in which sport?
18. In relation to the TV station, SBS, what does SBS stand for?
19. In the comic strip, Peanuts, who is Charlie Brown’s sister?
20. What is the westernmost Canadian province?
Facebook users this week commented on the 500 strong crowd which made their way to a free community op shop on the weekend ran by local residents.
David Battin: Most kind and beautiful people you would every want to meet Bernadette Lamb: Amazing couple right there! Well done Jan and Dale.
Brenda Bell: Well done Jan Mitchell
Energy transition can’t keep happening
Let’s be honest: this energy transition is big, complex, and it’s a fast-moving train that has departed the station.
But if communities continue to be left on the platform as the train disappears down the track, we will leave a disastrous trail of lost trust, unfairness, and missed economic opportunity alongside those left behind.
Too many rural and regional communities feel like this transition is being done to them, not with them.
Projects are being announced, good people are being approached by charlatans and salespeople looking for a quick sales and signature under a veil of nondisclosure secrecy Timelines are being set, and decisions made, while locals are left feeling like bystanders in their own backyards.
That’s not just unfair - it’s unstainable.
We need a fundamental reset in how we approach this transition.
Last week the 2024 Annual Report for the AEIC was tabled in Parliament.
Facebook users this week also commented on a funding boost to Eldarado Memorial Hall to support 90th anniversary event.
Leanne De La Rue: Great to hear.
Facebook users this week also commented on fears raised by Whitlands residents over a licence sought to bore into the town’s aquifer.
Jodien Perdon: No way!!!!!
Have your say Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.
Wangaratta Chronicle 13K likes 15K followers
This report documents 2024 as one of the busiest on record with complaints increasing alongside what is expected to be an increase in energy infrastructure development.
Two thirds of the complaints to my office related to wind infrastructure, with solar and transmission lines the other major concerns in the community.
NSW and Vic are the two key states where the community is feeling left behind.
We are at a tipping point with activity expected to increase significantly in the next few years.
As we go forward the transition can’t be about continuing to do what has been done to date.
It simply has to improve, and it has to be about genuine, ongoing collaboration. Respect. Trust. Legacy.
Communities are not just convenient locations for infrastructure.
They are places of identity, history, and deep local knowledge.
And if we want this transition to work, we must stop seeing them as obstacles and start treating them as partners.
We also need to get better at telling the story. Many people still don’t fully understand why we’re doing this - why change is necessary, and what it will mean for their daily lives.
That’s on everyone involved.
We can’t expect people to trust a system
they don’t understand or feel excluded from. Fairness has to sit at the heart of this process.
It’s not enough for landholders to benefit.
The whole community must see the value.
We need REZ’s to be seen as Regional Enhancement Zones - places where benefits are shared and futures are shaped together not just grid planning tools.
I’ve been working with key stakeholders to make sure things like the governments Developer Rating Scheme provides more confidence and transparency in what is happening in relation to social license.
This will be a welcome addition if we get it right.
In addition we need immediate demonstration of support such as cheaper energy in regions and commitment to legacy investment that benefits the community like child care, healthcare aged care.
And here’s another thing: most communities don’t have the time, money, or technical expertise to navigate this alone.
That’s where government and industry need to step up with accountability, transparency, and real support. If we can’t get that right voluntarily, regulation will need to do the job.
Trust has taken a massive hit.
We need to rebuild with clear commitments, honest conversations, and followthrough.
Accountability can be everyone’s fierce friend.
Because we need to shift from just building turbines or transmission lines to thinking about building a future.
Success in this energy transition shouldn’t just be measured in megawatts. It must be measured by the strength of our relationships and the respect we show to the people whose communities are at the centre of it all.
Tony Mahar, Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner
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DYNAMIC DYNAMOS: Cathedral College’s production of ‘Mamma Mia!’ is only a few sleeps away, and Amelie Kerr (left) as Tanya, Makenzie Clark as Donna and Bailey Jenkin as Rosie are ready to stun audiences as ‘Donna and the Dynamos’ this Friday and Saturday at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre. For tickets and further details, visit wpacc.com.au.
Students return from “life changing” Kokoda trek
Three local students have returned from a life changing challenge of trekking the in famous Kokoda Track which runs 96kms overland through the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea.
Charli Wright and Makiah McCallum from Cathedral College and Oskar English from Galen Catholic College were selected for 2025 Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship which saw them embark on a nine-day trek across challenging terrain.
They journeyed from Owers’ Corner in Central Province, 50 kilometres east of Port Moresby, across rugged and isolated terrain which is only passable on foot, to the village of Kokoda in Oro Province.
Cathedral College student Makiah McCallum said the trek was a “life changing experience”.
“I honestly don’t think I’ll ever be able to properly explain it,” she said.
“The whole thing changed me completely, the person I was before the trek to the one after is so different.
“I think my highlight was my personal development, my confidence in my capabilities has grown.”
The 16-year-old said the perspective she gained was “insane”.
“Experiencing a developing country exposed me to a very diverse way of living, it’s virtually the complete opposite way of life from Australia in a sense of the standard of living,” she said.
“It was also a shock to realise we take so many things for
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
granted, the locals there were so happy and generous.
“Our trek leader told us a lot about the diggers and the history of the battles and how they used to climb up these mountains with amputated limbs and no experience and that kept me going.
“I would 100 per cent encourage others to apply, even if they’re just slightly thinking about it they should give themselves the opportunity.”
For 16-year-old Cathedral College student Charli Wright the trek was a mix of emotions and challenges.
“Hearing the stories of those who had to complete the trek was the hardest part,” she said.
“There were definitely challenges over the nine days, I learnt a lot about myself and I’ve grown after pushing myself.
“A highlight for me was connecting with the locals, the village kids were so sweet and the our porters nicest people in the world, they always made my day.
“Seeing the way people live there has changed my perspective.
“I came back a different person, it was life-changing.”
For 16-year-old Galen Catholic College student Oskar English the experience was “eye opening”
“It was definitely the best experiences I’ve ever had,” he said.
“All of the different stories
we heard along the way is something I’ll definitely remember for the rest of my life.
“Hearing the stories of the diggers and the local people was motivating, it kept me going knowing what they went through.
“It was really confronting knowing some of them had to crawl or trek with injuries, if they were able to do that then I knew I had to be able to walk it.
“It has really make me grateful of what we’ve got and how much they sacrificed just so we could have what we had today.
Turn textiles into statement jewellery at the gallery
Transform your favourite and very special, even sparkly, preloved textiles into oversized, over the top and one-of-a-kind statement wearable jewellery, during a workshop at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
Artist Gillian Bencke will guide participants through the process and basics of creating a unique piece of jewellery using preloved fabric, cardboard and paper.
In Bencke’s exhibition currently being held at the gallery, the Newcastle-based artist’s work re-imagines commonly collected items - ephemera, keepsakes, heirlooms from personal and institutional collections through a textile-based practice.
She is interested in how individuals and communities collect, preserve and exhibit artefacts, her work examining how we, as a society, define and reinforce culture and assign value and meaning to material objects.
As part of the workshop, participants are encouraged to bring along their own wild crea-
“It hit me once I got back, I realised how lucky we are to have what we have today because of what they did for us.”
Wangaratta RSL Subbranch president Ash Power, AO, CSC Lieutenant General (Retd) said, the Wangaratta RSL has a long-standing tradition of honouring the bravery and dedication of Australia’s servicemen and women.
“Among our many initiatives, is the Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship,” he said.
“The scholarship was established to commemorate the contributions of Bob Iskov, a member of the Wangaratta RSL, a Kokoda veteran
and a dedicated community member. “Recipients of the Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship embark on a life-changing journey along the Kokoda Track.
“This experience is not just a physical challenge but also an educational and emotional journey that deepens their understanding of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers during the war.”
Craig Iskov, son of local Kokoda veteran Bob Iskov said, as a child who grew up in a large family during the 1930s depression, his father Bob became passionate about young people taking chances
and seizing opportunities.
“Although he fought in many theatres of war from 1939 to 1945, his Kokoda Track experience shaped his drive later in life to challenge and encourage young people to ‘have a crack at every opportunity that arises,” he said.
“He would be very proud of the wonderful young people who have represented our community through this scholarship.”
If any individual or business would like to support the Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship, contact the Wangaratta RSL at kokoda@wangarattarsl.org.au.
JEWELLERY: Budding artists can make their own spectacular jewellery, inspired by works like Gillian Bencke, Charmed, 2024, velvet, felt, silk, nylon, sequins, beads, cotton thread, 17 x 120 x 120cm.
tivity, favourite recycled fabric and paper pieces of all sizes and patterns, and come away with an unforgettable jewellery piece that tells a unique story.
It will be an immersive session enabling you to craft a bespoke jewellery piece, creating a meaningful piece for yourself, or a very fun gift for a friend.
The workshop is suitable for ages 12 plus, and all necessary
materials and tools will be supplied, however participants can feel free to bring along their own sewing kit and special fabrics.
The workshop will be held on Saturday, 23 August from 10.30am to 1pm and tickets are $40 ($30 for Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends) available at wangarattaartgallery.com.au/ Programs/Workshop-OversizedJewellery-with-Gillian-Bencke.
LOCAL COMMUNITY: Charli Wright and Makiah McCallum with local village children.
KOKODA TRACK: Makiah McCallum, Oskar English and Charli Wright have returned from a life changing challenge of trekking the Kokoda Track.
BESPOKE
WORLD LIZARD DAY
Festival of Speed
This year’s Winton Festival of Speed saw record numbers, with thousands flocking to Winton Motor Raceway from Friday, 1 August to Sunday, 3 August to witness the glorious spectacle of race cars from the golden era of motorsport.
As cars and people came thundering in, the action was instantaneous.
And it’s no surprise, as this year’s festival introduced the five litre touring cars on top of the pre-existing categories including Historic Touring Cars
According to Victorian Historic Racing Register’s social media page, Saturday marked their “biggest Saturday attendance record in the history of the Winton Festival of Speed.”
from the 1960s through to the 1990s, with Group C&A, Group N as well as HQ Racing, Historic Sports Sedans, MG and Alfa Racing, Touring Car Tributes, Formula Ford, Formula Vee and others.
The day was made all the better with sunny weather and clear skies.
Ian Ross, co chair of the
VHRR, said the influx of people this year was best explained by the model year of cars that were brought through the gates, noting there were about 330 entrants this year as well.
In the festival’s early days, there was a heavy focus on older cars from the 40s and 50s, but Ian said audiences
may not have identified with these vehicles as they didn’t grow up with them.
“This year, we switched more to late 70s/80s/90s and up to the 2000s, and I think that’s what made the difference,” he said.
Ian, who also raced on the day, said seeing how happy people were with the event was
a personal highlight for him.
“I think it was the overall feedback from all the people who had entered cars and raced,” he said.
“They thought it was one of best race meetings that they’ve ever been too.
“It’s a lovely part of the world, lovely weather, a great track.”
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 To be talented, is to be what (6)
7 What, in the US, do they call a railway (8)
8 What might we call an indigenous (6)
9 To liquidate a debt, is to do what (8)
10 Which word means haphazard (6)
11 Which term implies that someone is destitute of knowledge (8)
14 To imperil, is to do what (8)
18 What is a vibration or quivering (6)
19 To hand down, is to do what (8)
21 Name a German coding machine used during WWll (6)
22 To be more drowsy, is to be what (8)
23 To lie close and snug, is to do what (6) DOWN
1 What is mortification (8)
2 What are groups of three (6)
3 To be indulging in reveries, is to be doing what (8)
4 Which term means 10 to the third power (4)
5 What is a public speaker (6)
12 Name one of Australia’s territories (8)
13 To drive too close to the vehicle in front, is to do what (8)
15 Which implement is used in sewing (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
16 Name another term for insight (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 ALTRUISM
(a) The practice of seeking the welfare of others
(b) Physical hypersensitivity to certain things
(c) A passing or casual reference
2 BRACHIAL
(a) Invigorating
6 Name a fictional hero of jungle stories (6)
17 What are military forces (6)
Letters have a number value
20 To be dry, is to be what (4)
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
(b) Belonging to the arm
(c) Slightly salty
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES: Colour (3)
Feelings of anxiety (5) Gender (3) In favour of (3)
Postpone (5)
Share meal: break ... (5) Slacken effort (5) Sticky lollies (7) Text: Don’t Even Bother (3) Young leaf (7)
SOLUTIONS SUDOKU
QUICK THINK
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Call for Nominations for Directors of BankWAW
The Board of BankWAW calls for nominations from persons seeking election as Director of BankWAW at the 2025 Annual General Meeting, who believe they meet the skills-based criteria outlined below. Nominations can only proceed on the prescribed forms included in the Nominee Information Pack available from BankWAW on request by phone on (02) 6022 8422 or by email at info@bankwaw.com.au Nominations must be lodged by 5.00pm on Tuesday, 2 September 2025.
Interested persons must be prepared to meet with the Board’s Executive and Remuneration Committee. Prospective Nominees must be interviewed by the Director Nominations Committee for a Fitness and Propriety assessment under the Board’s Fit & Proper Policy before their names can be included in the ballot.
The Board has determined that nominees suited to apply in this election cycle would be those with at least one of the following core competencies:
• Enterprise Risk Management - 5 years of experience at Executive Management level in a dedicated enterprise risk management role.
• Governance - 10 years of Board experience with corporate entities of similar size & complexity to BankWAW, as well as a formal and assessed Governance Qualification (GAICD).
• Accounting / Finance - 5 years of experience at Senior Management level in a Public Practice, Audit or a commercial accounting role along with a formal accounting qualification.
• ADI / Industry Knowledge - A minimum 5 years of experience on the Board of another ADI of a size, complexity and business mix equal to BankWAW or a minimum 7 years of experience at Executive Management level of an ADI.
The Fit & Proper Policy is included in the Nominee Information Pack.
The AGM will be held on 19 November 2025. Formal notice will be issued in due course.
BankWAW is the registered business name of WAW Credit Union Co-operative Limited
ABN 48 087 651 787
PUBLIC NOTICES
Wangaratta City Soccer Club Inc.
Annual General Meeting 2025
⚽ ���� Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
���� Time: 7pm
���� Location: Wangaratta Club, Victoria Parade, Wangaratta.
We're inviting all members, players, families, and supporters to our Annual General Meeting!
This is your chance to:
✅ Hear the President and Treasurer’s reports.
✅ Elect our 2026 Committee.
✅ Have your say on the future of our club.
✅ Get involved and show your support!
Want to nominate someone for a committee position or raise an issue?
Submit nominations and notices of motion to secretary@wangarattacityfc.com.au by COB Monday, September 15, 2025.
BLACK and white Chihauhua, male, ready to go, vaccinated, microchipped, 956000016079052, Source ID: MB265002, $2500 ONO, Ph. 5727 1429
DRY SPLIT
FIREWOOD, quality boxwood and gum, available now, $170 per metre, dry, split, ready to burn, fast delivery available. Call G & J Tree Services on 0474 107 631.
MILLET HAY, small squares, 16 packs of 14 bales, $150 per pack. Ph 0448 248 810.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , all types. Big or small jobs, concrete demolition and removal, Bobcat and Excavator work. 20 years’ experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
DJ and CL Collison Concrete and Kurb, all concrete works, residential and commerical, free quotes. Call Dave 0457 155 564.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt service. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
WELDING SUPPLIES
CLEARANCE SALE
50% off w elding rods, welding wire and accessories, everything must go! Gordon Gibson Nominees, 42 Rowan Street, Wangaratta.
YARD CLEANUPS & RUBBISH REMOVAL Household Rubbish - Green WasteFurniture - Garage Cleanouts - Mowing. Fast, reliable service for all your clean-up needs! No job too big or small. Call 0474 107 631.
HANDY couple seeking rural lease,licensed builder/electrician and partner looking to lease a rural property with a rundown farmhouse, happy to renovate in exchange for 12-month lease at reduced rent, need space for 3 pet pigs, friendly, reliable and respectful.Call/text Luke on 0409 871 098.
2015 BMW Ex 5 X Drive 30 D Wagon, 138,792km, white, excellent condition, no scratches, no dents, no accidents, sun roof, heated seats, black interior, RWC, reg (AGE324) $35,000. Phone Bob 0411 464 374 or 0413 868 461.
2023 Toyota GX
Landcruiser, excellent vehicle low kilometres (20,400), upgrades include; Runva 13,000lb winch, GME XRS-330C UHF with bluetooth phone connectivity, Victron DC-DC charger (auxiliary battery set up), EFS 2” Lift Kit with remote reservoir shocks (front and back), Stedi LED light bar, bull bar with side steps, charcoal interior, always serviced at Toyota, balance of Toyota 5yr unlimited km warranty, roadworthy and rego included (CIS286), $107,000 ONO. Ph 0429 950 835.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
2022 Suzuki Address UK 110NMM2 scooter rego (2U3UX), registered until December 2025, $4100 O.N.O. Ph 0438 219 213.
JAYCO Penguin 2010 off-road camper, in good condition, extras, $13,400. Ph 0429 845 814.
CARABANA for sale, will tow just needs a light bar and permits, gas works on fridge and stove, will make a great spare room, $2000 ono, only serious buyers need apply.
WINNEBEGO Leisure
Seeker 2004, manual 5 speed, turbo diesel, 110,585km, length 21ft (6.4m), bull bar, 4 birth and 2 extra seat belts, rear camera, CB radio, solar panels, awning, 2 deep cycle batteries, fresh water and grey water tanks and hot water tank, reverse cycle aircon, digital flat screen TV with remote and USB, stereo radio (incl Bluetooth and CD player), toilet/ shower/hand basin and shaving cabinet, 3 burner gas stove, oven and grill, 9kg gas bottle, 3-way fridge/ freezer (medium size), blackout curtains fitted, $70,000. Ph 0448 155 965.
An opportunity has arisen for a graphic designer to join one of Victoria’s and NSW leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties.
North East Media and its related group companies are seeking a graphic designer. You must be able to multitask, have strong organisational
be an advantage.
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.
Applications should be forwarded to: Kelly Lovell Creative Services Manager North East Media klovell@nemedia.com.au www.nemedia.com.au
Outdoor Leadership Traineeship – Certificate IV
Are you keen on working outdoors? Are you interested in teaching young people?
Are you keen to learn new skills and gain a qualification in Outdoor Leadership? Outdoor School – 15 Mile Creek and Bogong Campuses are seeking, enthusiastic people who have an interest in Outdoor Education to apply for their 2026 traineeship intake. Positions are available at both campuses for a 12-month appointment starting 12 of January 2026. Further information and how to apply is available by calling 03 57666247 or emailing rhys.evans@education.vic.gov.au
Applications close Friday 3/9/2025 at 5pm.
FILDES, Kathryn Elizabeth. 29/9/1959- 2/8/2025
Passed away at Wangaratta surrounded by loving family. Aged 65 years.
Dearly loved wife of John. Loved mother of Simon and Matthew. Cherished Grandmother of Lana. Forever in our hearts.
CROCKETT, Ian Leslie.
A funeral to honour the life of Ian will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta on Friday August 15, 2025 at 1pm. Interment will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery where Ian will be reunited with his beloved Judy.
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way to O&M netball to capture some action from A and C Grade matches.
ROSE HENRY
EMERSEN NORTON
SHEL PETTS
JESSIE KNIGHTS
HANNAH GRADY
AMANDA UMANSKI
DIAZ MATTHEWS DIAZ MATTHEWS
CLARE WILSON
WINNERS AND LOSERS
COROWA R’GLEN 2.0 4.5 4.6 8.7.55 WANG ROVERS 1.6 3.10 11.12 13.15.93
GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: K. Bradtke 5, D. Clancy 1, F. Osborne 1, B. Kantilla 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: W. Christie 7, C. Thompson 2, N. Cooper 1, s. rourke 1, j. lewis 1, S. Booth 1.
BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Rowston, K. Bradtke, J. Longmire, C. Schutt, B. Morton, A. Curry. WANGARATTA ROVERS: W. Christie, D. Stone, S. Cattapan, H. Nolan, X. Allison, E. Dayman.
MYRTLEFORD 3.3 10.5 18.6 22.9.141
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: R. Sharp 6, B. Ricardi 5, B. Calogero 3, J. East 2, M. Munro 1, R. Smith 1, M. Dalbosco 1, J. Sharp 1, M. Tenardi 1, K. Agosta 1. WODONGA: N. Spiteri 6, J. O’Sullivan 1, A. Jorgensen 1, T. Miller 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: T. Cappellari, R. Smith, B. Ricardi, M. Tenardi, M. Munro, R. Sharp. WODONGA: N. Spiteri, N. Bradshaw, O. Greenhill, N. Stephens, C. Morrison, A. Jorgensen.
NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS
A GRADE
Albury 37 def by Wodonga Raiders 46 Yarrawonga 41 def Nth Albury 40; Corowa Rutherglen 55 def Wangaratta Rovers 37; Wangaratta 40 def by Lavington 45 Myrtleford 54 def Wodonga 53.
B GRADE
Albury 21 def by Wodonga Raiders 71; Yarrawonga 37 def by Nth Albury 42; Corowa Rutherglen 47 drew with Wangaratta Rovers 47; Wangaratta 45 def Lavington 31
C GRADE
Albury 19 def by Wodonga Raiders 57; Yarrawonga 54 def Nth Albury 28; Corowa Rutherglen 25 def by Wangaratta Rovers 51; Wangaratta 38 def Lavington 30; Myrtleford 45 def Wodonga 33. 17 & UNDER
Albury 17 def by Wodonga Raiders 42; Yarrawonga 47 drew with Nth Albury 47; Corowa Rutherglen 27 def by Wangaratta Rovers 63; Wangaratta 51 def by Lavington 44; Myrtleford 41 def Wodonga 37. 15 & UNDER Albury 18 def by Wodonga Raiders 78; Yarrawonga 35 drew Nth Albury 35; Corowa Rutherglen 37 drew with Wangaratta Rovers 37; Wangaratta 17 def by Lavington 38; Myrtleford 41 def Wodonga 29.
Wangaratta 6.11 (47) def
Lavington 6.6 (42)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: C. Kerwin 2, R. Schultz 1, E. Clayton 1, K. Hadley 1, E. Lodge 1. LAVINGTON: C. Hall 2, C. Way 2, J. Powling 1, S. Junck 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: O. Boyle, L. Sims, C. Newton, H. Laverty, W. Petersen, D. O’Sullivan. LAVINGTON: C. Way, C. Hall, T. Goonan, R. Costello, A. Russell, I. Robertson. Corowa Rutherglen 2.5 (17) def by Wangaratta Rovers 11.12 (78)
GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: H. Hall 2. WANGARATTA
ROVERS: J. Correll 3, H. Dodgshun 3, C. Johnson 2, H. Mullane 1, C. Breheny 1, T. Ford 1. BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: B. Eyers, H. Hall, J. Lavis, J. Paul, C. Marjanovic, J. Forge. WANGARATTA ROVERS: R. Harvey, J. Ford, R. McNamara, H. Dodgshun, E. Saunders, C. Breheny. Myrtleford 4.0 (24) def Wodonga 15.14 (104)
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: W. Graham 2, N. Nannipieri 1, S. Muraca 1. WODONGA: J. Hodgkin 6, B. Parkin 3, E. Thornber 2, A. Andrews 1, F. Kosmina 1, A. Lord 1, J. Dove 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: z. carroll, C. Ashworth, T. Cooper, T. Miller, S. Muraca, W. Graham. WODONGA: J. Hodgkin, W. McCoy, M. Hack, B. Nicklin, B. Parkin, E. Thornber.
Yarrawonga 10.8 (68) def North Albury 9.3 (57) Albury 10.11 (71) def Wodonga Raiders 5.5 (35)
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
Whorouly 46 def Bright 43; Tarrawingee 55 def Moyhu 39; Bonnie Doon 48 def Greta 37; Nth Wang 23 def by King Valley 24; Benalla 39 def by Goorambat 49.
B GRADE: Whorouly 50 def Bright 37; Tarrawingee 42 def Moyhu 24; Bonnie Doon 64 def Greta 36; Nth Wang 37 def King Valley 29; Benalla 28 def by Goorambat 62.
B RESERVE: Whorouly 39 def Bright 31; Tarrawingee 29 def Moyhu 24; Bonnie Doon 47 def Greta 27; Nth Wang 42 def King Valley 22; Benalla 57 def Goorambat 18.
C GRADE: Whorouly 16 def by Bright 54; Tarrawingee 25 def by Moyhu 49; Bonnie Doon 56 def Greta 21; Nth Wang 18 def by King Valley 53; Benalla 38 def by Goorambat 54.
15 & UNDER: Whorouly 23 def by Bright 47; Tarrawingee 42 def Moyhu 32; Bonnie Doon 58 def Greta 23; Nth Wang 20 def King Valley 55; Benalla 104 def Goorambat 2.
ROUND
20
SAT, AUGUST 16
GRETA vs BENALLA ALL BLACKS
MOYHU vs WHOROULY
GOORAMBAT vs NTH WANGARATTA
KING VALLEY vs BRIGHT
MILAWA vs BONNIE DOON
TARRAWINGEE - BYE
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: B. Kennedy 3, N. Fothergill 1, C. Wilson 1, Z. Fraser 1, B. Coghill 1. NORTH ALBURY: J. Murphy 5, J. Minogue 3, L. Taylor 3, N. Dennis 1, K. Duncan 1, B. Rigoni 1, T. Broomhead 1, A. Gardiner 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: B. Kennedy, H. Wheeler, C. Wilson, N. Fothergill, Z. Forge, H. Frauenfelder. NORTH ALBURY: J. Hayes, J. Weidemann, J. Murphy, C. Winter, J. Minogue, L. Taylor.
GOALS: ALBURY: R. Garthwaite 3, K. Heiner-Hennessy 3, M. Walker 3, H. Cameron 2, M. Duncan 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: N. Clarke 3, B. O’Neill 1. BEST: ALBURY: L. Koller, B. Kelly, J. Kelly, K. Heiner-Hennessy, M. Duncan, J. Carey. WODONGA RAIDERS: H. Cribbes, A. Scammell, C. St John, B. St John, N. Bracher, W. Fordham.
GOALS: WANGARATTA: X. Laverty 3, W. O’keefe 2, N. Richards 1, T. Norton 1, M. Hedin 1, C. Barrett 1, J. Tweedale 1. LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll 4, J. O’Brien 2, A. Swinnerton 2, J. Glanvill 1, J. Driscoll 1, C. Sanson 1, A. Cook 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: J. Clarke, M. Bordignon, A. Federico, C. Knowles, T. Norton, X. Laverty. LAVINGTON: C. Annett, J. Hart, E. Perryman, W. Glanvill, J. Costello, S. Driscoll.
Cannizzaro, R. Calvene. WODONGA: L. Nugent, J. Gilbee, W. McCoy, G. McKimmie, B. Russell, B. Oates. Yarrawonga 5.5 (35) North Albury 24.10 (154)
BEST: YARRAWONGA: D. Flanagan, R. Mulquiney, M. Grinter, B. Symes, J. Adkins, B. McCabe. NORTH ALBURY: J. King, A. Crelley, B. Spurr, D. Penny, C. McIntosh, M. Norman. Wangaratta............... 2.2 (14) Lavington 13.15 (93)
BEST: WANGARATTA: B. Marjanovic, M. Bihun, T. Gorman, J. Hedin, R. Battin, L. Shepherd. LAVINGTON: D. Smith, J. Weidemann, P. Flood, S. Hargreave, K. Holman, K. Williams.
ROUND 17
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
WANG ROVERS VS MYRTLEFORD
VS
GOALS: BONNIE DOON: J. Sanford 2, J. Octigan 1, T. Berenyi 1. GRETA: H. Moran 5, C. Crawford 2, J. McClounan 2, T. Arrowsmith 1.
BEST: Bonnie Doon: J. Sanford, J. Curtin, B. Smith, F. Butterworth, J. Law, P. Cairns. GRETA: J. Bell, J. Kelly, J. McClounan, D. Cassidy, T. Arrowsmith, C. Green. WHOROULY 7.2 11.4 11.4
GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 7, R. Eden 3, G. White 1, B. Harrington 1, C. Southern 1.
BRIGHT: C. Thomason 5, T. Thomason 2, C. Banks 2, P. Sullivan 1, L. Quirk 1.
BEST: WHOROULY: S. Piazza, J. Bihun, R. Eden, E. Woolford, M. Vescio, C. Wood. BRIGHT: J. Gray, S. Dalbosco, R. Jamieson, R. Arguello, K. Jamieson, A. Dalbosco.
NTH WANGARATTA 6.2 10.5 15.10 21.14.140
KING VALLEY 1.1 3.2 3.6 5.6.36
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith 7, T. Nanson 5, J. Nanson 2, T. Schulze 2, T. O’Brien 1, B. Raggett 1, S. Johnson 1, J. Adamo 1, J. Devine 1. KING VALLEY: F. Ott 2, M. Ring 1, C. Davies 1, B. Collihole 1.
BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Schulze, J. Nanson, A. Cheong, D. Killen, t. obrien, B. LaneGee. KING VALLEY: C. Davies, D. Lang, T. Roman, O. Day, H. White, D. Browne.
BENALLA 2.0 5.2 8.3
GOORAMBAT
GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: M. Ryan 3, S. Cox 3, D. Button 1, C. Orchard 1, B. Marlborough
1. GOORAMBAT: B. Stepien 5, D. Haebich 5, D. Beavis 4, B. Wapling 2, T. Nolan 2, S. Emmett 1, M. Priest 1, K. Black 1, J. Dunne 1, v. butler 1, R. Goodley 1.
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: S. Cox, D. Button, K. Glass, A. Hillaire, R. Nedeljkovic, M. Ryan. GOORAMBAT: J. Webb, J. Dunne, D. Beavis, B. Wapling, V. Butler, V. Kirk.
GOALS: TARRAWINGEE:
KING VALLEY M. McKenzie, J. Jones, W. Gilson, C. Vincent, S. Lindsay, S. Riley. Tarrawingee 13.9 (87) Moyhu 6.12 (48)
TARRAWINGEE B. Hamill, J.
S. Thompson
Thayer 1, W. Creed
J. Hoggan 1. MOYHU: J. Hansted 3, P. McNamara 3, G. Hearn 2, M. Thrum 1, D. West 1.
BEST: TARRAWINGEE: W. Creed, T. Heywood, H. Amery, D. Hogarth, X. Norden, O. Sharp. MOYHU: P. McNamara, J. Hansted, M. Thrum, D. Simpson, G. Hearn, C. Gibson.
Magpies teetering after narrow Lavi loss, Hawks ravage Roos
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Wangaratta Magpies risk falling out of the top five after a narrow loss to the in-form Lavington at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday. It was a heated but largely evenly matched encounter, which saw the Panthers pull away in the second half to defeat the Magpies by eight points, 10.15 (75) to 12.11 (83).
Taking on legitimate flag contenders Lavington, who had won nine of their last 10 matches going into the encounter, the ‘Pies matched them early on.
Scores were tied after the first quarter, with less than two kicks in it at the half.
Lavington’s defensive pressure made it tough for the Magpies to find players in viable scoring positions and move the ball out of their own defensive 50.
The home side had plenty of scoring shots through the third quarter for only two goals, with the Magpies trailing by 25 points at the start of the final term.
Roaring into the contest, the Magpies put the foot down and booted five goals unanswered to bring it within seven points at the 20 minute mark.
A late goal from a crumbing Xavier Laverty brought it to within two points, but Lavington put a goal on the board to alleviate the pressure.
If there had been five more minutes in the game, the ‘Pies could’ve come from the clouds, but the siren won out.
Jackson Clarke and Michael Bordignon were among the best for the Magpies, while Alex Federico’s class in the middle and Xavier Laverty’s three goals were instrumental in keeping the match as close as it was.
The loss, Wangaratta’s third in a row, sees them sit a game inside the top five, fighting to hold off Wodonga and Albury for the last ticket to finals.
In other matches, the reserves went down by 79 points, 2.2 (14) to 13.15 (93), while the thirds won their game by less than a goal, 6.11 (47) to 6.6 (42).
Elsewhere, Wangaratta Rovers continued their dominant season with a 13.15 (93) to 8.7 (55) win over Corowa Rutherglen at John Foord Oval.
The match was neck-andneck at half-time – despite Rovers’ clear control of play, they couldn’t find the reward in front of the sticks, kicking 3.10 in the opening half.
Their forward execution tightened up after the main break, where they kicked 8.2 in a third quarter blitz which took the game away from Corowa.
While the Roos fought back hard late, the margin was too great to overcome,
with the Rovers locking in their 13th win for the season by 38 points.
Ruck/forward Will Christie shone with seven goals in a best on ground performance, while Sam Cattapan,
Xavier Allison and Ed Dayman were similarly impressive.
Sam Murray and Brodie Filo found plenty of the footy, finishing with 37 and 32 disposals respectively,
a
KEEP IT MOVING: Harrison Hewitt handballs the ball to the overlap runner.
LEAD FROM THE FRONT: The always-classy Alex Federico had a mammoth final term to almost drag his side over the line.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
while Charlie Thompson recorded 31 touches with nine clearances. Rovers remain
game clear on top of the senior ladder, with two matches left to button up the all-im-
portant double chance in finals. Earlier, the reserve Hawks took the win 14.9 (93) to Corowa’s 7.3 (45), while the thirds got the job done by 61 points, 11.12 (78) to 2.5 (17).
MATCH REVIEWS
Whorouly Lions almost snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, but outlast Bright by five points in upset
■ From back page
“We got off to a good start, we have been starting games well the last few weeks,” he said.
“The boys are starting to get that belief within the group and within themselves as well, to know they can match it with the good
“All over, everyone was competing very hard, and our intensity was probably a fair bit up on where Bright’s was, and it just showed we wanted it a bit more and wanted to make it happen a bit more than what they did in the first
“They got their game going in the third quarter and we took a while to arrest momentum.
“It was just a couple of structural things, they changed a couple of things they were doing and we reacted a little bit slow.
“Our boys need to continue to work on a fourquarter effort, you can’t get comfortable in games –in that third quarter there were probably a couple of guys who got a bit comfortable.
“We’ve got to continue to work on that four-quarter effort, because you can’t beat good sides in two quarters and think the game’s done.” Newton himself was prolific up forward, winning the game within the game against Thomason, kicking seven goals to five.
Defenders Sam Piazza and Cam Wood gave it their all for the full game, and for Bright, Joe Gray, Rod Arguello, and Reuben and Kieran Jamieson were im -
“We give Cam the big jobs every week, he’s a competitor, very hard to play on,” Newton said.
“Sam’s growing his game, coming from an interesting start with a few injuries, but he’s starting to build some momentum and find some confidence in his game at the right
The result sees Bright slip to second overall, needing a win over 10th-placed King Valley in their final home and away match to lock in the double chance, while the Lions could finish anywhere from fourth to sixth, depending on how
Elsewhere, Greta handled Bonnie Doon 11.14 (80) to 4.12 (36), North Wangaratta picked up a 104-point win over King Valley, the Bats were 99-points too good for Benalla All Blacks, and Moyhu recorded their fifth win of the season with a 10.9 (69) to 4.11 (35) win over Tarrawingee.
footy.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie SUPERHUMAN EFFORT: Jayden Adamo leaps after Jack Davies. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
Tim Roman off the footy.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
OUT OF REACH
Josh Tweedale and the Magpies came eight agonising points short of knocking off the Panthers in one of the matches of the season.
■ Match report on page 14
Just a goal in it
Whorouly Lions
It was a day of high drama at the Whorouly Recreation Reserve on Saturday, where the senior match between the Lions and Bright came down to a kick after the si ren.
After a scintillating open ing half from Whorouly, Bright roared back into contention, leading in the final term before the Lions would come home with a wet sail,
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
13.5 (83) to Bright’s 11.12 (78). In a clash where many thought Bright would dictate terms from the outset, it was Whorouly who would dominate play.
A seven goal to two first
quarter laid the groundwork for a strong performance in the second, with the Lions ahead by 46 points at the major break.
However, as the good teams do, they find a way back into the contest, and Bright is undoubtedly a great team.
The Mountain Men upped their pressure across the ground and hunted the ball,
while a spare in defence nullified much of what Whorouly could do inside their forward 50.
Bright kept the Lions scoreless through the third while booting five goals themselves, the margin just two goals at the final change of end.
With their tails up and smelling blood in the water, Bright charged into the final
term, and managed to hit the front with 10 minutes to go.
The game rose in intensity, but a goal from Lion Russ Eden wrested back the lead.
With just seconds remaining in the game, Bright’s Cooper Thomason took a mark on the edge of the 50, needing a goal after the siren to win the game, with every Lion rushing to the goal line.
Thomason went back
and launched it, but it was touched by the man on the mark, and would fall short of the goal, with Whorouly holding on in an all-time classic.
Lions coach Michael Newton said while his side was still coming up short of a consistent four-quarter effort, he praised their intensity and determination.
■ Continued page 15
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie