Gateway Health Wangaratta team members including (from left) Bindi Thomson, Jen Rollings and Clare Schultz are excited to receive council funding to support their Growing Recovery program at Wangaratta’s drug residential rehabilitation facility. Story page 7
Homelessness in the North East has reached alarming new heights as lo cal support services report a sharp rise in people seeking help.
As Homelessness Week begins on Monday, North East housing provider Beyond Housing released the latest data for the past financial year, which saw a 21.8 per cent increase in people accessing the service
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
The 789 people seeking housing support are part of the 3152 people who have been through Beyond Housing’s entry points in the North East and Goulburn Valley, which is up seven per cent from last year.
Currently, over 500 people are being supported, who are homeless and waiting for accommodation and/ or specialist support across Victoria’s North Eat and Goulburn Valley regions.
Beyond Housing chief executive officer Celia Adams said any increase in homelessness was unacceptable.
“This year’s Homelessness Week theme of Homelessness Action Now is timely
and critically important,” she said.
“It is unconscionable that people who are vulnerable, including children, young people, and older people, are dealing with homelessness in this country.”
Ms Adams said a commitment to regional and rural Victoria housing investment - where private rental is scarce, services are stretched and vulnerable people were
out in the cold - was the key to solving the surge.
Beyond Housing data indicates one in five people who were supported by the housing provider were sleeping rough, 25 per cent were over 55 years-old and more than six per cent were escaping family violence.
Some 27 per cent of people were under the age of 25, which North East youth and family service organisation
NESAY sees as an overrepresentation of the demographic in homelessness.
Wangaratta-based NESAY chief executive officer Laura Shortis said over the past financial year, NESAY has supported 150 young people who were at risk of experiencing homelessness and 110 young people and families to sustain housing through financial support.
■ Continued page 2
Independent federal MP for Indi, Helen Haines, has covered a gamut of key service areas in the first two weeks of the new federal parliament.
With international affairs a heavy presence in the parliament, so too were domestic issues with Dr Haines making key advocacy statements for Indi.
The federal government passed legislation on its election commitment to reduce student HECS debt by 20 per cent, which Dr Haines supported for the almost 14,000 people in Indi that have an average HECS debt of $21,000.
Dr Haines support was not without criticism, though, citing the timing of indexation as a problem for students.
“The current indexation arrangements are unfairly adding thousands of dollars to Australian debts and should be fixed,” she said, calling on the government to extend payments for practical placements for students, following her successful amendment in the last parliament to have the system reviewed within three years.
“I hear from so many people having to choose between study or work – some putting
their degrees on hold because unpaid placements are simply not possible when they have mortgages, rents and bills to pay.”
Dr Haines raised issues with changes to the NDIS Pricing Review after meeting with local service providers last month.
Under new rules, the amount providers can claim for travel is halved and risks the viability of future service delivery.
“Last month I met with more than a dozen of Indi’s physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians,
speech pathologists and support coordinators to hear their concerns,” she said.
“I have urged the government to pause these pricing changes and consult with providers in order to protect these NDIS services in the regions.”
Other legislation passing the parliament included two bills to legislate technical changes required for aged care reforms that will come into effect from 1 November.
Dr Haines reinforced concern that the delay of 83,000 new Home Care Packages was leaving nearly 90,000 people
waiting for care, speaking on the bill and raising the issue in Question Time last Thurs day.
“The government’s delay to the new aged care system leaves nearly 90,000 people waiting for a home care pack age,” she said.
“Despite this, the govern ment ignored the crossbench call to fund 20,000 packages to bridge the gap to the new system and cannot articu late what they are doing to support these people in the meantime.”
Parliament resumes on 25 August.
Spike in Wangaratta, North East homelessness has our local support
■ from page 1
She said family violence was the most common cause of youth at risk of homelessness in the region and this was consistent with the service’s post-COVID demand.
“Generally with our young people we have seen a spike in an intersectionality of issues that are coming through,” she said.
“They’re not just coming to us for one particular cause;  when you peel it back, there’s a multitude of things that have led them to that crisis point.”
Ms Shortis said the service finds there was an element of invisibility around the large portion of youth experiencing homelessness, with many young people who rely on couch surfing or staying with friends going unnoticed and not receiving the support they need.
“Youth homelessness isn’t the same as adult homelessness... we try to remind people that it can’t be solved with the same approach,” she said.
“We need a tailored strategy that recognises the vulnerabilities unique to young people, and really supports development and pathway into a stable future rather than mirroring the support frameworks in place for adults and older people.”
Ms Shortis said a multi-layered approach to address systemic causes of youth homelessness was key to finding long-term solutions for those at risk.
“You’ve got specialist providers that provide housing, family violence, drug and alcohol, mental health support; it’s about those organisations working together across the region to provide a holistic approach to resolving some of those issues,” she said.
“If we work in isolation, then you’re not going to be able to have that long term impact against some of those systemic causes.”
Homelessness peak bodies have identified a need for at
least 6000 new social housing dwellings per year in Victoria, a call to action that is strongly supported by Beyond Housing.
More than $700,000 on over 10,000 nights of crisis and emergency accommodation was spent by Beyond Housing in 2024-25, a service that relies on motels and caravan parks due to the lack of dedicated crisis accommodation for most people who are homeless.
There is no guarantee of a longer-term solution following
Police encourage public to make your plates safer with anti-theft screws
Wangaratta police are asking the community to tighten the screws on number plate theft by purchasing and installing one-way screws at the station.
Number plate theft crimes are not to be taken lightly, as stolen plates can be used to commit more serious offences including petrol drive-offs, driving offences, burglaries and even drug trafficking.
Wangaratta police station has antitheft screws available for just a gold coin donation at the front counter.
The one-way screws can be used to secure number plates and make them much harder to steal.
Prevention is the key – secure your plates and park in a well-lit, secure area.
But if you ever become a victim, report it at your earliest opportunity to give
the best chance to catch the offenders, recover what’s yours, and keep the community safe.
this emergency support.
Beyond Housing will build over 300 new social housing dwellings across the North East and Goulburn Valley by the end of 2027, valued at over $100M. Ms Adams said this number, while significant, is not close to addressing the demand for social housing, or housing those in need.
“Action must be taken across all of Australia, and rural and regional communities cannot be forgotten,” she said.
■
APCO superheroes and community raise $260k
The APCO Foundation had its most successful Giving Day to date, raising $259,531 last Tuesday to help support local families and individuals facing challenging circumstances.
The superhero themed Giving Day saw staff at APCO service stations across the state, including Wangaratta, come together to raise funds which were matched by partners, amplifying the impact of community contributions.
APCO Foundation chairperson Sharon Gleeson, said the funds will support individuals and families
across APCO’s network of service stations, with 90 cents of every dollar donated going directly back into local communities.
“The foundation provides rapid assistance to people experiencing crisis situations, including those dealing with serious illness, domestic violence, financial hardship, and natural disasters,” she said.
“Since its establishment in 2013, the APCO Foundation has raised over $2.3 million and distributed more than $1.85 million directly to communities.”
The Victorian government intends to make working from home a right.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced over the weekend that her government will introduce legislation to protect the ability of an employee to work from home.
– public sector or private sector.
Premier Allan said working from home “works for families and it’s good for the economy”.
She said more than a third of Australian workers – in
year), cuts traffic congestion, and gets more people working as it supports women with children, carers and people with a disability to work.
She said it’s also good for business, as “those who work from home are working near
consultation led by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
“We will consider the types of businesses and the size of businesses that that will be covered by this scheme, as well as the definition of re
fair, what’s practical, and what’s already working in many workplaces today.
“This consultation process won’t determine whether working from home should be a right.
this legislation next year.
Opposition leader Brad Battin said the the Victorian Liberals and Nationals recognise that working from home has become a valuable option for many workers and families.
“We’re already clear on that: it should be.
“We just need the appropriate laws to reflect it.”
Following consultation, the Labor Government intends to introduce and pass
“We support measures that help Victorians enjoy a better work-life balance, and will review any legislation closely, to ensure it supports flexibility, productivity, and personal choice,” he said.
It was no
By JORDAN DUURSMA
Wangaratta had 65.6mm of rainfall in July, the exact same amount as recorded in March this year and just above the historical average of 62mm.
Rain was recorded at the Bureau of Meteorology’s weather station at Wangaratta Airport on 17 days of July, just over half the days of the month.
This brought the total yearly rainfall for the rural city up to 298.4mm, which is still significantly below the historical average of 349.6mm for the first seven months of the year.
The bureau’s outlook for August is a 58 per cent chance of above median rainfall (more than 67.3mm), a 22 per cent chance of usually wet weather (above 94.1mm), and a 11 per cent chance of usually dry weather (32.7mm).
The forecast for August includes an 80 per cent chance of above median maximum temperatures (more than 13.9 degrees Celsius) and a 67 per cent chance of above median minimum temperatures (more than 3.7 degrees Celsius).
COMMUNITY OP-SHOP:
together on Sunday at a free pop-up community op-shop, operating our of Wangaratta’s Seventh Day Adventist Church in Phillipson Street. Locals from all walks of life came together to find some goodies, give back to those who need it and connect over a warm cuppa and piece of cake.
PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
Wangaratta’s coldest minimum temperature of -1.8 degrees Celsius was recorded on 1 July, with the maximum temperature of 17.4 degrees Celsius on 2 July.
The bureau’s long-range forecast for August to October shows rainfall is likely to be above average for most of mainland Australia.
Warmer than average days are likely across south-eastern Australia.
A request for an advisory committee aimed at bringing transparency and order to the planning of a solar energy facility at Meadow Creek has been sent to Victorian Minister for Planning Sonja Kilkenny, with the support by key people.
Australian Energy Commissioner Tony Mahar, and Indi MP Helen Haines have backed Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group (MCACAG) members who wrote to Minister
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
Kilkenny last week calling for more oversight into the planned development of the 332MW solar facility and 250MW battery.
Minister Kilkenny is currently assessing the merits of a planning permit application lodged by proponents to build the renewable energy facility on 576 hectares at Meadow Creek, bordered by
Oxley-Meadow Creek Road, Docker-Carboor Road, and Allan’s Lane.
Mr Mahar told Minister Kilkenny he believed there “should be more oversight and accountability in the process” and that “community concerns are not being sufficiently recognised or acted upon”.
He said he had attended a meeting between the Meadow Creek community and proponents of the development in June, which highlighted practical and basic
issues such as access to the site during weather events, impact on local or regional water, and fire risks.
“I would be very supportive of additional measures that increase the transparency and enhance community confidence in the decisions made on this development and accordingly seek your support for the community’s calls for an independent advisory committee to help address the community concerns,” he wrote.
“If for some reason the
advisory committee is not possible I think it is important for the community to understand why not and what alternative measures could be put in place.”
Dr Haines asked Minister Kilkenny to duly consider the MCACAG’s request for an advisory committee.
MCACAG wrote to Minister Kilkenny noting that the request arises due to several strategic, policy, and environmental considerations that warrant broader and more integrated assessment
than can be adequately addressed through the standard permit process.
Topics included current VicGrid policy development; strategic suitability of the battery in special water supply catchments, commonwealth environmental approval; need for policy alignment and consistency; planning scheme integrity and transitional gaps; ministerial intervention and precedent; and public confidence and community engagement.
AN intriguing work by Elisa Jane Carmichael received the $2500 Highly Commended Ruth Amery Award in this year’s Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award, on display at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
Handstitched and dyed with mangrove bark and eucalyptus leaves, Mirrigimpa, 2024 depicts the sea eagle, an animal of great significance to Quandamooka people, providing knowledge of sustainable and communal hunting and fishing practices and embodying Ancestral cultural practices.
Mirrigimpa sings with the changing tides, signalling when the mullet are coming and carries spiritual and cultural connections to sea and sky Country.
The work incorporates mullet fish scales, string, Talwalpin nets and scent from eucalyptus, banksia, casuarina and melaleuca leaves.
The inner bark fibre of Talwalpin (cotton tree), used for millennia to make for nets and baskets, has been stripped and woven into string.
Together the materials and methods of Mirrigimpa carry the scent and memories of Country while imagining Mirrigimpa’s vision, soaring across Quandamooka waters.
Elisa Jane Carmichael is a Ngugi woman belonging to the Quan-
Us by Gillian Bencke at Wangaratta Art Gallery
An exhibition by Newcastle based artist Gillian Bencke is being held in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
Working across sculpture and installation, Us brings together a body of new work that uses the language of museum display to examine our motivation and determination to collect, preserve and express our identities through personal and cultural artefacts. Bencke’s work re-imagines commonly collected items - ephemera, keepsakes, heirlooms from personal and institutional collections through a textile-based practiceand it is on display until 14 September.
TO: Jeremy Weinreich
damooka People of Moreton Island/Mulgumpin and North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah, Queensland.
Her practice draws on Ancestral knowledge, matrilineal connections, memories of place and relationships with Country.
She is passionate about shining a light on the cultural brilliance of her Ancestors so that these stories can be kept alive for future generations.
Carmichael’s work is held in private and public collections
across Australia, including The British Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and National Gallery of Victoria.
While judging the 2025 event - the $40,000 acquisitive award going to Jemima Wyman for her work, Haze 19, 2024 - arts leader and curator Dr Blair French remarked upon the high quality of all the works entered.
“The Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 exhibition features 10 substantial works created by artists at different ca-
reer stages engaging with a wide range of processes,” he said.
“It makes for a rich and deeply thought-provoking viewing experience and highlights how textile practices offer contemporary artists unique means to hinge together material making and conceptual speculation, personal and collective experience, human touch and technological production.”
See the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery until 17 August.
Your new glass recycling bin will be delivered during July and August. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge. Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin
Acclaimed pianist Timothy Young to play in Wodonga
One of Australia’s most prominent and versatile pianists will perform a solo recital featuring history’s great composers at The Cube in Wodonga on Sunday, 16 August from 7pm. Timothy Young (pictured), a resident artist and Head of Piano at the Australian National Academy of Music, will perform as a guest of Murray River Fine Music’s 2025 concert series. He will present an evening program featuring Sergei Rachmaninov’s Etudes and Preludes, Maurice Ravel’s Gaspard de la Nuit, George Gershwin’s Prelude No. 1 from Three Preludes and Frederic Chopin’s towering Sonata No. 2, Op. 35. To book visit: thecubewodonga.com.au.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
The Eldorado Memorial Hall committee of management is set to receive a $4853 funding boost to support the hall’s upcoming 90th anniversary celebrations and commemorate its history.
The committee is one of 41 local community groups and not-for-profit organisations awarded a share of $166,000 in the Rural City of Wangaratta’s 2025–2026 Community Grants Program.
Committee secretary and hall bookings officer Cheryl Bell said she did all but cry when she heard their application had been successful.
“It’s wonderful news and we feel very grateful to council that we can do this,” she said.
“This is about bringing people into the hall to have a good time, make happy memories, and create an emotional connection between the hall and our community.”
Cheryl said the funds will go towards booking a local band, Sweet Buzz, to perform at the anniversary event in April next year, as well as an interpretive board detailing the hall’s history, including its heritage overlay status.
This event comes off the back of the committee and council’s Grit and Resilience program team’s success hosting an Old School Night Out event last year which saw the Eldorado community recreate the old school vibe with a fun night of live music and dancing to the soundtrack of Sweet Buzz.
Cheryl highlighted the hall’s community importance, emphasising its historical significance and ongoing role in bringing people together.
“This hall was built by the community who worked on the dredge...after a full day’s work they would pack up and head here [to the hall] and work on the foundation,” she said.
“It may look ordinary on the outside but it’s a fabulous historic hall on the inside, it’s very deceptive.
“Community events have been held here for so many years and I hope for that to continue long into the future.”
Details on the anniversary event will be released closer to the date.
Nominations are now open for the Rural City of Wangaratta 2026 Australia Day Awards in the following categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year (aged 16-25) Community Event or Project of the Year.
The Australia Day Awards celebrate the extraordinary Australians who make a profound impact on the local lives, community, and society. These awards honour their chal-
lenges and triumphs and reflect each recipient’s unique journey and honour lifelong and ongoing contributions to the Wangaratta Community.
Nominations close at 6pm on Saturday, 8 November.
Award recipients will be honoured at the 2026 Australia Day celebrations in Wangaratta.
In addition to receiving their award, the Citizen of the Year will
have their handprint carved into the Marmungan Rock in Apex Park -a lasting tribute to outstanding individuals in our community.
This handprint will be unveiled during Reconciliation Week in a cultural ceremony hosted by the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network.
Earlier in the year, Peter and Wendy Lester were named Citizens of the Year 2025 for their long-standing service to
sporting, cultural and support organisations across the municipality.
Felicity Camplin received the Young Citizen of the Year 2025 award for her inspiring volunteer work locally and abroad, including coaching youth sports, supporting charities, and volunteering in Samoa.
Thread Together was recognised as the Community Project of the Year 2025.
This not-for-profit organisation pro-
vides brand-new clothing to vulnerable members of the community, allowing guests to select items at no cost in a welcoming store environment. Nomination forms and eligibility details are available online (https://www. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/ Australia-Day-Awards) or get hard copies from the Wangaratta Government Centre, Wangaratta Library and Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre.
Are you ready to turn your passion into a pathway?
Expressions of Interest are now open for Galen‘s Sport Education Pathway
Launching in 2026, this hands-on VCE VM program helps students turn their love of sport into real-world skills and career pathways.
As we roll into national Homelessness Week it is a reminder for all of us to keep those who are doing it tough in our community in our hearts.
This week is an opportunity to shine a light on one of the most pressing social issues facing our rural city.
Local support services have reported a significant increase in people who are seeking help.
We need to see the people behind these statistics, they are not numbers on a spread sheet to show the ups and downs, they are living breathing people who are loved.
Homelessness affects a large number of people and we can’t stand idly by while those around us struggle.
Vulnerable people in our community need our help as they navigate life without stable shelter, often due to circumstances beyond their control.
Part of this is challenging the stigma around homelessness, our community needs to wrap its arms around those who are struggling, not add to the judgment and shame around someone’s circumstances.
Starting the conversation around what you can do to support those in your circle who are struggling or stepping out of your comfort zone and seeing the impact this issue is having on those outside of your usual social group is a small step in the right direction.
This week calls on all of us to commit to ending homelessness, calling on our governments, organisations and everyday people to confront the systemic causes of homelessness and to advocate for compassionate, long-term solutions.
This week, ask yourself how you can help work toward a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.
1. Who won the 2017 Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie?
2. Which town hosted both the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics?
3. Issur Danielovitch is the birth name of which famous actor?
4. In the board game, Stratego, which piece can capture the Marshal?
5. What is the capital of Luxembourg?
6. Retinol is a form of which vitamin?
7. In the Lee Falk comics, who is the Phantom’s alter ego?
8. What colour is the frame on the front page of National Geographic magazines?
9. Who played the role of John “J.D.” Dorian in the 2000s TV series, Scrubs?
10. The area known as Dalmatia is located in which country?
11. Which four teams played in the semi-finals of the 2017 WAFL season?
12. In March 1969, who confessed to assassinating Martin Luthor King, Jr?
13. Liberia has a coastline on which ocean?
14. In computer terms, SCSI stands for what?
15. Who preceded Scott Morrison as the Treasurer of Australia?
16. The Iroquois are an indigenous people of which continent?
17. Which two people wrote the 1997 movie, Good Will Hunting?
18. Lorraine Crapp represented Australia in which sport?
19. Which one of the Farriss brothers is the drummer in INXS?
20. The F430 Spider and the F355 Spider are sports cars made by which company?
Facebook users have been commenting on repair works to the Reid Street footpath in the CBD.
Lorraine Monshing Oam: Time the “Beautiful tiles”. … went and replaced with stamped designed concrete was installed.
Lisa Delahunty Peach: More wasting of ratepayers money!!!
Joy Longmuir: The red bricks are very slippery when they’re wet. I’m surprised the
council haven’t been sued for fall injuries in the cbd, of which there have been plenty.
Brian Fox: less parking less customers. traders suffer again.
Brett Francis: What a waste of asphalt... could of been used for potholes
Lorraine Monshing Oam: Brett Francis , not really, as they only put in pot holes , don’t ram it down ( like in past) and first car that runs over it it breaks up again
St Vincent de Paul Society is urging the Australian government to fully fund homelessness services, ensuring no one is left without help when they need it.
Homelessness Week runs until 10 August, and this year’s theme, “Homelessness Action Now,” underscores the urgent need for decisive government action to reverse Australia’s homelessness crisis and properly resource frontline services.
The lack of accessible and affordable housing is the main driver of the nation’s homelessness crisis.
While we wait for those in power to take real action to tackle the causes, the demand for frontline services continues to grow.
Over 122,000 Australians are homeless on any given night; many are escaping domestic and family violence, and nearly one in four is a young person aged 12 to 24 years (ABS Census 2021).
The Society provides a wide range of housing and accommodation options across every state and territory, including specialist homelessness services, short-term crisis accommodation, transitional housing, medium to longer-term community housing, and accessible housing for people with disability.
Too many Australians are just one life event away from housing stress – losing a job, falling ill, becoming a carer, ending a relationship, being on a temporary visa, or experiencing family and domestic violence.
When housing stress turns into homelessness, St Vincent de Paul Society is ready to help with immediate supports and to assist with finding long-term solutions.
More than providing a bed for the night, wraparound services are essential to help people move forward and to avoid returning to homelessness.
As well as delivering crisis support including food, clothing and accommodation for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness, the Society offers or refers people to education, drug and alcohol, and mental health services, alongside youth and family support programs.
Every day, we see that with the right support, people can stay housed and rebuild their lives.
Experiencing homelessness or housing stress robs people of their human dignity and limits their life potential.
Secure housing lifts people out of poverty and leads to better outcomes in health, education, employment, and social participation.
We look forward to all our governments acting faster to build more affordable accommodation.
Access to secure affordable housing coupled with wraparound support services save around $13,100 per person annually in government services.
NOTE:
Angela Corker: Brett Francis really. Have seen a elderly person fall. Not everyone is stable on there feet. Dangerous to those with poor eyesight as well. Everyone has the right and ability ti get around the township footpaths safely
Debbie Butler: The whole street needs doing. So uneven all the way down and it’s on both sides
Tracey Wadley: Debbie Butler did you ever think that
maybe it’s the tree’s that are raising the paths they have grow over time but I suppose you want the trees to go to, (NO).
Lorraine Monshing Oam: Tracey Wadley , not all caused by trees , this looks like it is drain problem!!
Leslie Matthews: a minor inconvenience compared to how others in the world live...
Helen Senior: Thank the lord for that. It’s terrible to be left that long. Very dangerous when walking along that strip.
Have your say
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LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION: Cheryl Bell, John Bell, Doreen Oldmeadow and Doug Oldmeadow welcome the community to an upcoming movie night at the Eldorado Memorial Hall showing Oddball at 6pm on Saturday, 16 August. All funds raised from the evening will go toward the St Jude’s Anglican Church restoration fund. The evening will include movie trivia with prizes, snacks and soft drink will also be for sale on the night. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://events.humanitix.com/eldoradogold-class.
The time for real action to reverse Australia’s homelessness crisis is now.
For more information, read Let’s Build a Fairer Australia at vinnies.org.au.
Mark Gaetani, St Vincent de Paul Society national president
Every day in Australia, 19 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancer and heartbreakingly, six will lose their lives.
For those living in regional and rural communities, the challenges are often even greater, with delays in diagnosis, limited access to specialists, and long travel distances adding significant strain to an already devastating experience.
At Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG), we are committed to changing this future.
Our Survivors Teaching Students (STS) program is a deeply impactful initiative that brings the voices of women who have experienced gynaecological cancer directly into university classrooms.
These courageous volunteers share their personal stories with medical and nursing students to help shape a more compassionate, informed and responsive generation of healthcare professionals.
Since launching in Australia, our STS volunteers have reached more than 20,000 students.
Their stories help future clinicians better understand the signs and symptoms of these diseases, improve the likelihood of early diagnosis, and embed empathy and respect into the care of every woman affected.
We are now inviting more women to take part in this powerful program.
If you or someone you know has been affected with ovarian, uterine (endometrial), cervical, vulvar or vaginal cancer, your experience can help others.
No public speaking experience is neededonly a willingness to share your journey in a safe and supported environment.
To find out more and join this special and inspiring community, please visit anzgog.org. au/sts.
Alison Evans, CEO ANZGOG
WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
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By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Rural City of Wangaratta Council has been allocated more than $50,000 of annual Victorian government funding to help manage weeds and pests along rural city roads.
Acting Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, recently announced 45 councils would receive up to $85,000 each.
Wangaratta council were recipients of $54,319, consistent
with previous years.
A council spokeswoman said the rural city also invests further resources from its own budget to support the vital work.
“Each year, council undertakes targeted spraying across 2000 kilometres of rural roadsides, guided by detailed weed mapping to prioritise high-risk areas,” she said.
“While this program supports broader land man-
agement goals, its primary focus is not fire mitigation, though it does offer secondary benefits such as improved roadside access and visibility for emergency services during emergency response situations.
“These efforts help protect biodiversity, support agricultural productivity, and maintain the safety and function of rural roadsides.”
Spraying is typically carried out in spring, summer, and
autumn when treatment is most effective.
The council spokeswoman said key areas of concern include Chilean needle grass in Tarrawingee, Milawa and Oxley; blackberry infestations in the southern municipality; and rabbit control around Hamilton Park.
“Council engages local contractors, supporting regional employment and leveraging their knowledge of the local landscape,” she said.
“Persistent weed species such as Chilean needle grass, St John’s wort, and African love grass remain a significant challenge.
“Council continues to advocate to the Department of Transport and Planning to ensure that state-managed roadsides, especially those adjoining council-managed areas, are also treated appropriately.”
The spokeswoman said community members con-
cerned about declared noxious weeds or pest animals on council-managed roadsides are encouraged to check species listings via Agriculture Victoria or submit a customer request via council’s website or contact customer service if the species is listed and located on a council-managed roadside.
“Council’s Environment and Sustainability team will assess and respond accordingly,” she said.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
Gateway Health Wangaratta has been awarded $2145 as part of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s (RCoW) 2025-2026 Community Grants Program.
The grant round has seen 41 local community groups and not-for-profit organisations awarded a share of $166,000.
The funds will support the Growing Recovery program at Gateway Health’s Wangaratta Therapeutic Community (WTC), an Alcohol and Other Drugs residential rehabilitation facility.
Gateway Health Wangaratta health promotion coordinator Clare Schultz said with the grant, the team will purchase two wicking garden beds,
soil, seedlings and fruit trees to grow more fresh produce for use in the on-site kitchen.
“Where possible, surplus produce will also be donated to the community pantry at the local neighbourhood house, offering local families access to nutritious food,” she said.
“This builds on and expands the existing edible garden at the site.”
Gateway Health Wangaratta residential manager Jen Rollings said gardening, especially as part of a program like WTC, helps participants develop practical and emotional skills, from building healthy routines and teamwork to mindfulness, light exercise and connecting with nature.
“These experiences help residents rebuild confidence and prepare for future study, employment, or simply sharing new interests with their families,” she said.
“Donating produce to the community pantry adds an important layer of connection and community contribution.”
With a holistic view of recovery from substance use, the WTC provides a structured residential program that incorporates a balance between work, therapy, education and recreation.
For more information about WTC, visit https://gatewayhealth.org.au/services/ alcohol-drug-support/wangaratta-therapeutic-community/.
Rainfalls during July over most of Victoria tended to exceed the average except in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs where rainfall totals were about two thirds of the monthly average.
Wangaratta recorded 65.6mms, Benalla 77mms, Rutherglen 72.8mms, Strathbogie 168.6mms, Mt Hotham 167mms, Mt Buller 184mms and Falls Creek 176mms.
The mean maximum temperature at Wangaratta for July was 13.3 degrees whilst the mean minimum temperature was 3.2 degrees. Both readings were a shade above the long term normal.
The highest temperature was 17.4 degrees on 2 July
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
whilst the lowest temperature was minus 1.3 on 1 July.
Benalla and Rutherglen also had their highest temperature of around 17 degrees on 2 July and their lowest temperature of minus 2 degrees on 1 July.
There were fewer frosts than usual during July due to more strong winds than normal.
Bendigo recorded 93mms during July, which was the wettest since 99mms in July 1995.
In SA, Adelaide recorded
111mms for July, which was the wettest since 130mms in July 1995.
Ceduna recorded much needed rainfall of 68mms - its wettest July since 1998 - after the driest January to May period since 1923.
In NSW Wilcannia recorded 52mms, which was its wettest July since 57mms in 2010.
Moree with 91mms recorded its wettest July since 125mms in 2001.
Cairns has recorded its warmest July in 135 years of records.
The mean maximum temperature of 28.2 degrees was nearly three degrees above the July normal and surpassed the previous warmest July of 2010 and 1905.
The North East Catchment Management Authority is now inviting expressions of interest from irrigation industry groups and community organisations across the region for grants between $20,000 and $35,000.
These North East Sustainable Irrigation Program grants are designed to support irrigated agriculture and irrigation communities in adapting to variable water availability and climate change, with a focus on building resilience and productivity.
For more information or to submit your expression of interest, visit https://www.necma. vic.gov.au/Solutions-Resources/Landholderand-Community-Grants/Expressions-of-Interest-Sustainable-Irrigation-Grants-202527 by 5pm, 19 September.
A thoroughly enjoyable, interesting speaker, he was presented with a small gift in appreciation.
WANGARATTA APPIN
PARK COMBINED PROBUS
President Denny Wagstaffe called the 8 July meeting to order and welcomed members present and visitors Phil Hargreaves, Cindy Osmotherly, Cheryl Le Grand, and Jill and Tony Lorback.
The 18 July meeting was opened at 10am by president Sally Haynes, who welcomed members present and guests Margaret Anderson, and Ken and Leila Craig.
Norm Baker and Keith Fyffe were inducted to the club.
Total membership: 73 plus three guests.
Guest speaker Carolyn Jerome from Cycling Without Age Wangaratta told us about their organisation.
They give free rides to those no longer able to ride themselves and use trishaw e-bikes piloted by volunteer cyclists.
Carolyn also spoke about road safety and how the rules have changed since we all got our licences and we should make sure we know those changes and keep up with any new ones.
Upcoming events are as follows:
Thursday, 14 August: Breakfast club at the Gateway Hotel at 8.30am.
Monday, 18 August: Hamer Hall - Victorian College of the Arts and Music featuring emerging artists. Entry $34 or $26 for groups of four or more.
Monday, 8 September: Hamer Hall - Bernadette Robinson.
Tuesday, 23 September: Shepparton Art Museum - Brett Whitely exhibition “Inside the Studio”.
Cost is free but tickets must be booked.
Friday, 17 October: In-house lunch.
Next trip with the Caravanners will be to Castlemaine.
Details not yet complete.
The next general meeting will be held on Friday, 15 August at 10am at Wangaratta Bowls Club.
President Greg Porter welcomed a depleted number of members to our July general meeting, due to members being away on their trip to Uluru and Alice Springs.
Unfortunately, we also had members away due to illness, so we wish them all a speedy recovery.
We welcomed new member Murray Lawn to our club with an induction performed by president Greg.
We wish Murray all the best and hope he enjoys the activities of our club.
Our walking group continues despite the chilly weather, and our monthly Sunday lunches remain popular.
The garden group has gone into recess during the frosty winter.
The movie group has had a lull, but is on the lookout for a nice film sometime soon.
We all looked forward to the Christmas in July lunch at the Bull’s Head Hotel on 23 July.
Our guest speaker for July was Bob Morrison from Morrison’s Winery.
Bob gave an insight into where and why the wine industry began in Australia after World War Two.
He also took us back through a list of wines we were introduced to over our lifetime - some we had not thought about for some years.
The nostalgic memories were awakened.
Bob finished by telling us how precious wine was hidden from Hitler when his troops invaded Paris.
Friday, 3 August, 2015
By SCOTT ANDERSON
The battle for the Ovens and King Football League premiership is no longer a one horse race, with Milawa earning a timely confidence boost in a five-point win over Glenrowan on Saturday.
It was the Kelly Tigers’ first loss in more than a year, snapping their club record 25-game winning streak.
In extraordinary circumstances, neither side managed a goal in the first half, and at three quarter time Glenrowan was up 1.7 (13) to 0.6 (6) after Chris
Birthday wishes went to Gloria, Marion K, Dominic, Marion S, Pat and Ken, with a cake supplied to celebrate the club’s 19th anniversary.
Amelia Edwards gave a talk about the history of how our club started.
Membership officer Ros noted we have 77 active members and four non-active members.
Games group continue to meet at 5.30pm on the second Wednesday of the month at the Men’s Shed for fun, games, lots of chatting, and take-away tea.
All members are welcome to attend.
Combined breakfast group meet on first Sunday of the month and men’s breakfast group meet on last Thursday monthly; there is good attendance at both.
Check minutes for venue details.
Friday lunch group will dine at the Northo at noon on 15 August.
Our Christmas in July on 17 July was very enjoyable.
We travelled to Remel 185 at Whorouly to celebrate the occasion with great company, delicious food, and lots of chatter and laughter.
Thank you to Elaine and the craft ladies for the decorations.
Our next activity is Footy Favourite or Sporting Spectacular Day at the next meeting on Tuesday, 12 August.
Dress in your team’s footy colours and please bring a plate to share nibbles for morning tea.
Our guest speaker co-ordinator Robyn Dunstan continues to have interesting people to speak to us.
At our recent meeting, Cycling With-out Age were very entertaining and an interesting presentation was given by Wayne Anderson and Dianne Cribbes.
Sussyer marked strongly in the pocket and curled a checkside shot through for a major.
Milawa had kicked four behinds in the first 12 minutes of play, but didn’t add to its tally until 19 minutes into the third term, when Scott Pell and Brent Newton scored minors.
But those final minutes of the third were important, as the Demons began to
wrest back the ascendancy that Glenrowan had held for more than two quarters.
With Newton producing a colossal performance in the ruck and strong efforts from Simon Pane, Andrew Hamilton and Bryce Mortimer at ground level, Milawa moved the ball forward at the start of the final term and refused to let it out of their half of the ground.
Brendan Gamze kicked the Demons’ first goal when he was awarded a free kick and 50m penalty that put him on the goal line, and Newton tied the scores soon afterwards with a behind
after putting his head over the ball and being caught high.
The Tigers recaptured the lead on a Max Scott behind, but when Hamilton marked the ball three minutes from full time, 25m out directly in front of goal, he made no mistake, giving Milawa a 2.7 (19) to 1.8 (14) victory.
Demons co-coach Luke O’Keefe said the win was a confidence booster, but added the conditions made it difficult to take much else from the result.
COLOSSAL EFFORT: Andrew Hamilton gets the ball to Nathan Hooper.
PHOTO: Luke Plummer
ACROSS
4 Name a renowned New York City avenue (7)
8 What is otalgia known as (7)
9 To understand clearly, is to do what (7)
10 Who is the commanderin-chief of a navy (7)
11 To be of low character, is to be what (7)
12 To spray, is to do what (6)
14 To be avaricious, is to be what (6)
18 What is a bill also called (7)
21 To have formed into one, is to have done what (7)
22 To have indicated, is to have done what (7)
23 What might we call a person who sets something on fire (7)
24 Name a plant of the mint family (7)
DOWN
1 When one soils, one does what (7)
2 What is dirt, or foul matter (5)
3 Which female plays a role (7)
4 Name a legendary magician (6)
5 What might we call a stormwater channel (5)
6 To be qualified to travel on snow, is to be what (7)
7 Who is one’s sister’s daughter (5)
15 What are portions known as (7)
16 What were miscreants once hung on (7)
17 Name a workroom of an artist (6)
18 Which word element means for hearing (5)
19 Which term means extreme (5)
Letters have a number
13 What is an official permit (7)
20 What are brief suggestions (5)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
PERFUNCTORY
(a) Performed as routine duty (b) Tending to make perfect (c) Piercing through 2 SCRUPULOUS
(a) Searching
(b) Deliciously tasty (c) Showing a strict regard for what is right
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:
African nation: Sierra ... (5)
Contraction (arch): it is (3)
Displaying machismo (5)
Doctors’ Reform Society (3) Fast-flowing current (3-4) Front of lower legs (5) Lyric poem (3) Millilitre (3) Used tape (5) Win (7)
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
AVIAN PARK RACEWAY (WANGARATTA) MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE INCORPORATED
Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING
to be held at Avian Park Raceway, Newman St Wangaratta on Tuesday, August 19 commencing at 5pm.
The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Avian Park Raceway (Wangaratta) for a term of 3 years.
All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to the meeting.
Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting the Honorary Secretary, Bernadette Costantino on M: 0413 180 423 or E: bcostantino@bigpond.com
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.
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.
WANTED to buy pre-decimal coins, $200 coins, sovereigns, florins, shillings, crowns, pennies, half pennies, please call Ray on 03 5721 7341 or 0401 177 370.
ORIGINAL 1996 Ford
XR6 XH Falcon Ute, manual, reg till Oct 16 (ZZS948), 247,196km, $10,000 ONO. Ph 0431 396 083.
JACK Russell pups 2x male, tan/ white, vet checked, microchipped, ready to go. Source ID: MB261083. Microchip: 956000017400889, 956000017403069. $500, Benalla. Ph 0400786210.
SUBARU Outback 2.5i petrol premium AWD, Venetian Red, black leather interior, one owner, 116,000km, 12 months rego (AEN996), full service record, adaptive cruise control, first registered July 2015, great condition, $19,500 ONO. Ph 0401 916 667.
Agri-Gene P/L, Australia’s largest privately owned genetics company located at Wangaratta, has a challenging full-time position available for a Despatch Officer. Duties will include handling of bovine semen and embryos, packing and despatching stocks to A.I. Centres throughout Australia and co-ordinating import and export shipments. Applicants should be:
1. Computer literate with the ability to learn new systems.
2. Experienced in stock control and inventory systems.
3. Excellent time management and organizational skills.
4. High level of Customer Service and teamwork.
5. Hold a current Drivers Licence.
6. Interest in the A.I. Industry and Animal Breeding is desirable
If you would like to apply for this position, please send your Resume to the General Manager, Chris McIlroy at accounts@agrigene.com.au
Applications close Monday, August 4th, 2025.
Outdoor Leadership Traineeship – Certificate IV
Are you keen on working outdoors?
Are you interested in teaching young people?
RENTAL wanted, 68 year old man, reliable, quiet, must be quiet area, 1 bedroom. Ph 0484 007 251.
WELDING SUPPLIES CLEARANCE SALE 50 % off welding rods, welding wire and accessories, everything must go! Gordon Gibson Nominees, 42 Rowan Street, Wangaratta.
FORD Fairlane Ghia, new tyres, new h/ lining, new exhaust, electric brakes, tow bar, Tickford motor, 163,000km, reg (SHS752), RWC, $9500. Ph 0438 251 532.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
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.
DUNSTAN, Raymond Edwin “Ray”.
The President and members of the Probus Club of Wangaratta Inc. mourn the loss of our highly respected member.
With our deepest sympathy to Isabel and family.
TURNER, Noel. August 5, 2005. It’s been 20 years on August 5, 2025. You’re still in our hearts. Miss you.
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.
bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a
ALBURY 2.4 4.5 5.6 6.10.46
GOALS: ALBURY: L. Dattoli 2, K. Heiner-Hennessy 2, L. Conlan 1, M. Bender 1. MYRTLEFORD: B. Ricardi 5, L. Murphy-Dale 5, R. Sharp 2, D. Harrington 2, B. Calogero 1, D. Bren 1, T. Cappellari 1, L. Miotto 1, J. East 1, T. Cossor 1, M. Munro 1.
BEST: ALBURY: M. Byrne, J. Gaynor, J. Kelly, B. Kelly, M. Walker, D. Pattinson. MYRTLEFORD: K. Agosta, B. Ricardi, J. East, D. Harrington, L. Murphy-Dale, D. Batey.
COROWA R’GLEN
A GRADE
Lavington 29 def by Wodonga Raiders 42 Wodonga 40 def by Corowa Rutherglen 67 Albury 44 def Myrtleford 46 Wang Rovers 34 def by Yarrawonga 71 Nth Albury 51 def Wangaratta 38
B GRADE
Lavington 34 def by Wodonga Raiders 40; Wodonga 46 def by Corowa Rutherglen 48; Albury 32 def Myrtleford 30; Wang Rovers 36 def by Yarrawonga 53; Nth Albury 30 def by Wangaratta 36
C GRADE
Lavington 31 def Wodonga Raiders 23; Wodonga 47 def Corowa Rutherglen 35; Albury 22 def by Myrtleford 68; Wang Rovers 41 def Yarrawonga 31; Nth Albury 30 def by Wangaratta 51 17 & UNDER
Lavington 31 def by Wodonga Raiders 52; Wodonga 38 def by Corowa Rutherglen 43; Albury 40 def by Myrtleford 45; Wang Rovers 58 def Yarrawonga 31; Nth Albury 33 def by Wangaratta 50 15 & UNDER
Lavington 25 def by Wodonga Raiders 44; Wodonga 75 def Corowa Rutherglen 20; Albury 19 def by Myrtleford 54; Wang Rovers 27 def by Yarrawonga 37; Nth Albury 41 def Wangaratta 35
North Albury 4.6 (30) def by Wangaratta 13.7 (85)
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: C. Dickson 1, H. Westmoreland 1, C. Spencer 1, M. Bowler 1. WANGARATTA: H. Barry 4, C. Petersen 3, W. Prebble 2, J. Parker 2, C. Newton 1, H. Laverty 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: C. O’Rourke, T. Mcintosh, W. Harrington, J. Eckhardt, C. Singe. WANGARATTA: O. Boyle, E. Clayton, D. O’Sullivan, J. Scheier, H. Barry.
Albury 14.20 (104) def Myrtleford 3.4 (22)
GOALS: ALBURY: R. O’Sullivan 3, R. Tinworth 2, M. Field 2, J. Quade 1, L. Reid 1, N. Conway 1, J. Whiting 1, E. Wallgate 1, D. Dunstan 1, B. Davies 1. MYRTLEFORD: L. Masin 2, C. Ashworth 1. BEST: ALBURY: J. Quade, I. Schirmer, J. Whiting, B. Davies, D. Dunstan, R. Tinworth. MYRTLEFORD: C. Ashworth, O. Benson, N. McMonagle, T. Cooper, N. Robb, W. Graham. Wangaratta Rovers 11.11 (77) def Yarrawonga 3.9 (27)
GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Correll 5, H. Dodgshun 1, E. Saunders 1, C. Breheny 1, C. Ormond 1, Z. O’Shannessy 1, C. Lugg 1. YARRAWONGA: S. Trembath 1, L. Henley 1, T. Baxter 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Allan, T. Ford, C. Flynn, C. Lugg, H. Mullane, J. Correll. YARRAWONGA: L. Wren, B. McDonald, S. Bigger, S. Trembath, T. Clarkson, X. Mitchell. Wodonga 6.12 (48) def Corowa R’glen 6.7 (43) Lavington 5.10 (40) def Wod. Raiders 4.10 (34)
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
Greta 34 def by Tarrawingee 44; Bright 45 def by Moyhu 47; Whorouly 63 def Nth Wang 21; Benalla 32 def by Milawa 58; Goorambat 30 def by Bonnie Doon 45
B GRADE: Greta 41 drew with Tarrawingee 41; Bright 47 def Moyhu 40; Whorouly 65 def Nth Wang 32; Benalla 23 def by Milawa 66; Goorambat 38 def by Bonnie Doon 43
B RESERVE: Greta 42 def Tarrawingee 36; Bright 40 def Moyhu 37; Whorouly 52 def Nth Wang 21; Benalla 26 def Milawa 25; Goorambat 21 def by Bonnie Doon 55
C GRADE: Greta 55 def Tarrawingee 21; Bright 37 def Moyhu 31; Whorouly 43 def Nth Wang 23; Benalla 30 def by Milawa 41; Goorambat 14 def by Bonnie Doon 84
15 & UNDER: Greta 37 def Tarrawinge 26; Bright 42 def Moyhu 21; Whorouly 54 def Nth Wang 14; Benalla 66 def Milawa 25; Goorambat 3 def by Bonnie Doon 123 Not all scores available at time of print
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
WHOROULY vs BRIGHT
TARRAWINGEE vs MOYHU
BONNIE DOON vs GRETA
NTH WANGARATTA vs KING VALLEY
BENALLA vs GOORAMBAT
MILAWA- BYE
BEST: WODONGA: A. Jorgensen, C. Morrison, G. Crothers, J. Hymus, M. Wilson, J. Cassidy. Corowa Rutherglen: J. Eyers, R. Irvin, J. Rowston, J. Cresswell, B. Morton, J. Longmire. WODONGA 3.2
GOALS: WODONGA: J. Hymus 3, J. Cassidy 3, T. Miller 2, R. Bourke 2, J. O’sullivan 1, T. O’Sullivan 1, A. Jorgensen 1, M. Wilson 1, K. Mimmo 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Foote 2, A. Curry 2, C. Schutt 2, R. Murphy 1, E. Amery 1, K. Bradtke 1, J. Longmire 1, B. Kantilla 1.
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: J. Penny 2, F. Gardiner 1, J. Murphy 1, C. Winter 1, K. Flack 1, B. Rigoni 1. WANGARATTA: H. Gottschling 2, M. Hedin 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: J. Pope, J. Weidemann, F. Gardiner, J. Penny, F. Gardiner, B. Rigoni. WANGARATTA: M. Grossman, M. Bordignon, T. Norton, H. Gottschling, D. Sharrock, A. Federico. NORTH ALBURY 1.2 5.10
WODONGA: C. Garoni, D. Cameron, J. Gilbee, R. Thompson, D. Norman, H. Venturoni. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: H. Canning, C. Bertram, B. Minogue, J. Richardson, F. Parker, J. Ugle. North Albury 8 13 (61) Wangaratta 5 9 (39)
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: C. McIntosh, J. King, A. Crelley, J. Spurr, R. Wall, C. Hetherton. WANGARATTA: M. Bihun, J. Hedin, A. Johnstone, C. Ross, C. Hines.
Lavington 18 20 (128 Wodonga Raiders 4 2 (26)
GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: N. Cooper 4, W. Christie 4, N. Scholte 2, L. O’Brien 2, s. rourke 1, D. Wilson 1. YARRAWONGA: B. Coghill 2, J. James 1, B. Kennedy 1, B. Schofield 1, N. Fothergill 1, N. Irvine 1, C. Wilson 1, C. Courtney 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: N. Cooper, C. Ledger, S. Booth, B. Paul, W. Christie, W. Nolan. YARRAWONGA: C. Wilson, N. Irvine, B. Kennedy, B. Coghill, Z. Fraser, M. Findlay. WANG ROVERS 4.5
GOALS: LAVINGTON: T. Oosterhoff 7, A. Cook 3, J. O’Brien 2, A. Swinnerton 1, D. Smith 1, J. Glanvill 1, S. Driscoll 1, E. Perryman 1, P. Ryan 1, T. Hargreave 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: N. Clarke 3, B. O’Neill 1, C. Smith 1, A. Scammell 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Glanvill, E. Perryman, A. Swinnerton, D. Beavan, N. Newton, T. Oosterhoff. WODONGA RAIDERS: W. Fordham, J. Casey, A. Scammell, N. Clarke, C. St John, H. Cribbes.
BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Phegan, D. Finnimore, L. Gaffney, K. Williams, P. Flood, S. Hargreave. WODONGA RAIDERS: A. Sinclair, C. Howells, J. Cannell, B. Knights, D. Ramage, T. Scott. Albury 6 9 (45) Myrtleford 10 8 (68)
BEST: ALBURY: N. Morrison, B. Hodgson, E. Moore, D. Buntin, J. Moran, O. Sharman. MYRTLEFORD: J. Gribbin, N. Ferguson, R. Forrest, N. Turner, R. Grant, L. Young.
ROUND 16
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
COROWA RUTHERGLEN VS WANG ROVERS
MYRTLEFORD VS WODONGA
YARRAWONGA VS NORTH ALBURY
WANGARATTA VS LAVINGTON ALBURY VS RAIDERS
GOALS: GRETA: H. Moran 5, B. Newbold 5, L. Kennett 3, J. McClounan 2, C. Crawford 1, T. Rosser 1, T. Cheer 1. TARRAWINGEE: S. Piper 2, O. Sharp 1.
BEST: GRETA: L. Kennett, C. Crawford, B. Newbold, J. McClounan, M. Wettern, T. Baker. TARRAWINGEE: S. Piper, T. Heywood, C. Chamberlain, O. Sharp, A. Amery, D. Hogarth.
WHOROULY 8.0 13.2 20.3 22.4.136
NTH WANGARATTA 2.1 3.5 4.8 9.9.63
GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 10, J. Newton 3, A. Newton 3, L. Moore 2, P. Glanville 1, J. Smith 1, D. Hoy-Maroney 1, M. Scott 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith 3, J. Kemp 2, T. Schulze 1, J. Devine 1, J. Adamo 1, D. Killen 1.
BEST: WHOROULY: M. Newton, M. Scott, R. Eden, J. Smith, J. Bihun, D. O’Shannessy. NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Schulze, M. Curtis, H. Fraser, B. Raggett, J. Nanson, C. Smith.
BRIGHT 10.3 15.4 24.10 28.16.184
MOYHU 1.1 2.5 3.6 5.8.38
GOALS: BRIGHT: C. Thomason 16, C. Banks 3, R. Bacon 2, H. Jamieson 1, T. Thomason 1, L. Quirk 1, S. Dalbosco 1, P. Sullivan 1, P. Bren 1, J. Crawley 1. MOYHU: W. Johnson 1, J. Hansted 1, D. West 1.
BEST: BRIGHT: C. Thomason, L. Quirk, J. Gray, W. Wales, C. Banks, S. Dalbosco. MOYHU: P. McNamara, G. Hearn, B. Zimmermann, C. Gibson, M. Thrum, D. Carmody.
GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Sinclair 1, B. Marlborough 1. MILAWA: B. Bartlett 19, B. Kearns 6, J. Goddard 3, A. Law 3, H. Graham 1, J. Lea 1, R. Mckay 1, N. Congram 1, C. York 1.
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: B. Marlborough, S. Cox, M. Ryan, K. Linke, A. Hillaire, R. Nedeljkovic. MILAWA: B. Bartlett, B. Kearns, T. Dunn, A. Law, J. Owen, N. Congram.
GOALS: GOORAMBAT: D. Haebich 3, B.
Goorambat 2 1 (13) Bonnie Doon 16 14 (110)
BEST: GOORAMBAT J. Hill, W. Hyland,
6 2 (38)
BEST: GRETA: C. Hernandez, S. Mcleod, J. Reid, B. Hogan, D. Murphy, D. Cassidy. TARRAWINGEE: R. Benton, W. Phillips, C. Fitzgerald, B. Hamill, M. Smith, H. Ormond. Benalla All Blacks 3 2 (20) Milawa 33 14 (212)
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: B. Marlborough, D. Whitelaw-Orton, M. Jacobs, C. Orton, J. Smith, A. McNab. MILAWA J. Stevenson, D. Farley, L. Niklaus, J. Baker-Swain, S. Pane, T. Leslie. Bright 15 11 (101) Moyhu 63 (39) BEST: BRIGHT: P. Crocombe, D. McCormick, J. Higgs, P. Harrison, S. Cinquegrana, M. Kinthari. MOYHU: R. Hargreaves, L. Reynolds, Z. Salta, D. Carmody, B. Booth, A. Welsh. Whorouly 12 16 (88) North Wangaratta55 (35) BEST: WHOROULY:
■ From back page
“We challenged our senior midfielders to get back on top on ball...they were putting a lot of numbers around the footy and behind the footy, so we had to look at a couple of things there and see how we can best exploit it.
“That’s a really good lesson in itself for our group – we don’t want to concede six goals in any quarter, there’s no place where we like that, but to be able to get the feedback and be able to respond to it, it’s important for us.”
Forward dynamos Nathan Cooper and Will Christie booted four goals each, while Stuart Booth was at his best in his 100th match.
“He’s ultra-competitive with his defensive work and we highly value individuals who can apply forward pressure, turn the football over or win the football back,” Murray said of Booth.
“He’s one of the best at that, he’s only played 100 games, he’s been at this since 2015 so he’s averaged 10 [games] a year which shows the amount of inju ries and setbacks he’s had.
“Since I’ve taken over and put a lot of trust in him, he’s really flourished in having clarity of what his role is, which is that high-pressure defensive forward.
“It’s really great to see him play 100 games for a club that means a lot to him, and he means a lot to us.”
The Rovers sit a game clear on top of the O&M ladder, with matches against Corowa Ruther glen (ninth), Myrtleford (third) and Wodonga (sixth) to round out their home and away campaign.
get the better of ‘Pies as finals loom
Meanwhile, the Wangaratta Magpies’ season took a bit of a stumble at Bunton Park after they came up four goals short against North Albury on Saturday. Wangaratta were unable to take the points from their run in with the Hoppers, defeated 10.8 (68) to 13.14 (92).
After a hard-fought first quarter, the Hoppers showed their class, turning an eight-point deficit after a quarter into an 18-point lead by the half. It was out to 24 points in the third before Wangaratta began to eat into the margin, but the Hoppers held a three-point advantage at the final change of ends.
Ultimately, the ‘Pies weren’t able to rein North Albury in, and now risk falling out of the top five with just three matches remaining before finals.
It was a weekend for the forwards of the Ovens and King senior football com petition, with the top three goalkickers in the league each kicking 10 goals or more.
History was made on Sat urday at the Whorouly Recreation Reserve, as Lions coach Michael Newton slotted his 100th goal for the season in front of an eager home crowd.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
way as tempers flared, and the Hawks were unable to make any inroads until the final term.
goals in the opening term alone.
It would take until the fourth quarter for Benalla to kick their first major, by which time the Demons had already slammed on more than 30 of their own.
Needing to win to guarantee a spot in finals, and with defender Paul Glanville passing the club’s senior games record of 326, a lot was on the line.
The century came within minutes of the start of the match against the Hawks, as Whorouly powered to victory 22.4 (136) to 9.9 (63).
It was a dominant display from the Lions early, booting eight goals to two in the first quarter as North Wangaratta struggled to control the footy and use it effectively.
The Hawks kept fighting, but couldn’t make the most of their opportunities, while Whorouly’s precision in front of goal led to a 57-point half-time margin.
Momentum would continue to flow Whorouly’s
Coming out of three quarter time trailing by 91 points, North Wangaratta managed to pare it back to a 73-point margin after the Lions put the cues in the rack.
Newton finished with 10 goals, while Max Scott and Darcy O’Shannessy kept the pressure on down back, and for the Hawks, Tyler Schulze, Matt Curtis and Corey Smith were named in the best.
Elsewhere, Milawa’s Brady Bartlett tore Benalla All Blacks apart with a stunning solo performance in front of goal, finishing with 19 goals in a best on ground performance.
The Demons would thrash the bottom of the table Panthers by 215 points, 36.16 (232) to 2.5 (17).
It was game over after the first quarter, with Milawa dominating through the midfield and up forward to slam on 12 unanswered
On top of Bartlett’s virtuoso act, which takes his season total to 96 goals, contributions were made by Braydon Kearns (six goals), Tyler Dunn, and Aaron Law.
Another bag was booted by Bright’s Cooper Thomason in the Mountain Men’s 146-point win over Moyhu.
Thomason’s 16 goals, his most in a single season, helped bury the Hoppers 28.16 (184) to 5.8 (38).
It was a 15-goal to two first half which would define the match, a show of force Moyhu would be unable to contain.
Despite courageous work from Moyhu’s Paddy McNamara, George Hearn, and Bailey Zimmermann, they were simply outclassed by the Mountain Men.
In other matches, Bonnie Doon outclassed Goorambat 18.9 (117) to 12.12 (84), while Greta pummelled Tarrawingee 18.16 (124) to 3.8 (26).
Chris Knowles and the Magpies are at risk of falling out of the top five as the O&M season ramps up to finals. The Magpies were defeated by four goals on Saturday after a thrilling second half of footy.
■ Full O&M, O&K scoreboard on page 13
It’s said the best teams can adapt on the fly, and that’s exactly what Wanga ratta Rovers’ senior footballers did at home to the ever-challenging Yarrawon ga Pigeons on Saturday. The Rovers were able to ice the game 14.16 (100) to 9.6 (60), but it was far from one-way traffic all game.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
After they were kept to a goalless opening quarter, the Pigeons shot back hard, booting six goals to one in the second to lead by a goal at the major break.
The Rovers were able to analyse where their game was falling flat, primarily at stoppage and their contest work, and implemented quick changes.
Yarrawonga didn’t score through the third quarter as Rovers got on top in the middle, and were able to leverage their
pressure through the second half into the 40-point triumph.
Rovers coach Sam Murray said the adaptability and willing to fix on the fly was a very positive sign heading into finals.
“It was good to respond, we got feedback in that second quarter and under-
stood which aspects of our game weren’t right and we were able to fix it,” he said.
“We started really well, but we went away from what kept us in good stead in the first quarter, we stepped away from it in the second.
“We were conceding a lot of inside 50s, we weren’t able to get the footy back in our half and play the game we wanted to play, so when we came in at half-time we addressed that.
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“I think our contest game dropped off, we were down heavily in clearance which gives up a lot of territory in a short period of time.
