It was billed as a derby for the ages... and Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies didn’t disappoint the estimated 2000-strong crowd at the Wangaratta Showgrounds for much of Sunday afternoon. After a tight tussle early, the Rovers led by Sam Murray (pictured being tackled by Jasper Craven) kicked away to a 34 points win to maintain their top position on the O&M ladder.
A proposed 230-lot residen tial subdivision on Clarkes Lane with its own wastewater treatment facility is recommended for approval at tomorrow’s Rural City of Wangaratta council meeting. Rural city councillors will be presented with a report from council officers recommend-
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
ing approval of a planning scheme amendment to rezone the land to facilitate the subdivision, and the integrated water management facility
(IWMF) which is marked for establishment at Targoora Park recreation reserve.
It is further recommended that councillors submit the amendment to the Victorian Minister for Planning for approval, and recommend the minister approves a planning permit for the
proposed subdivision.
The report notes council received 37 submissions in response to the proposed subdivision earlier this year, with 30 objecting to the plan. Nearby residents opposed to the development cited grounds of its high density, including lot sizes down to 328sqm, traffic concerns, and the location of the wastewater treatment facility.
A independent planning panel held a hearing in Wangaratta during May where community members spoke on a range of matters raised in submissions including concerns over traffic, odour,
loss of public park and recreation zoned land, alternative sewerage treatment solutions and locations, environmental impacts on One Mile Creek and biodiversity, the importance of green/ open spaces, and sustainable and inclusive development.
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) will formally take over land management of the Winton Wetlands Reserve on 1 August.
Courtney Bertram, DEECA Hume acting regional director, said on Friday that the department is working with the current committee of management “to achieve an effective transition of management”.
The committee of management last month abruptly resigned, leaving the wetlands’ 20 full and part-time staff without jobs, closing the café and hub and suspending all research and environmental programs.
DEECA confirmed a public expression of interest process will be advertised shortly to determine interest in future use of the buildings, including the café, with the intent to lease the spaces so that they continue to benefit the local community.
“DEECA is committed to the ongoing restoration of Winton Wetlands Reserve and ensuring the community continues to use and enjoy the reserve,” she said.
It is also understood DEECA will engage the wetlands’ current rangers to ensure continuity of site maintenance and pest plant and animal management programs at the reserve.
Local stakeholders, community groups and members of the public interested in the continuity and future of Winton Wetlands have met with DEECA, which has said it will continue to engage with local communities about their vision for the future of Winton Wetlands.
Nationals’ MP for Euroa,
met with representatives from DEECA and the office of the Minister for Environment and DEECA, advocating to ensure locals have a say in the future of Winton Wetlands.
She said hundreds of people have completed her community survey capturing views on the site’s future use, particularly the Mokoan Hub and Café.
“There is cautious optimism that under DEECA, we will see a more transparent and community-focused approach to managing the wetlands,” Ms
“I have been encouraged by early discussions, especially around plans to maintain and restore the wetlands, reopen the café and hub through a private tender process, and continue important environmental and restoration projects.”
Ms Cleeland said it was vital that decisions about the site were made with the community, not behind closed doors.
“People are still incredibly disheartened by the sudden closure and the lack of transparency that came with it,” she
PROPOSED SUBDIVISION: The amendment proposes to rezone a larger parcel of land (red outline) for residential lots, and a smaller parcel of land (blue outline) for an integrated wastewater treatment facility.
■ From page 1
The report to council says the independent planning panel reviewed the proposal and considered all matters raised in submissions and concluded that the proposal was appropriate and recommended approval of the amendment and to issue a permit.
General Residential Zone; and approximately 1.9ha of land contained within Targoora Park from Public Park and Recreation Zone to Public Use zone - to facilitate the construction and operation of an integrated wastewater treatment facility.
seeks to remove 0.47 ha of vegetation, alter access to a road and remove an electrical transmission easement.
“But there is also a strong and shared determination to protect this site’s environmental, cultural and tourism value.
“I will be working alongside DEECA to make sure that happens with the community involved every step of the way.”
Ms Cleeland’s survey invites input from residents, volunteers, researchers, and visitors on ideas for land use, conservation, eco-tourism, education, and potential private partnerships.
The survey is available to complete at: https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/WintonWetlands
Morris of Rutherglen among world’s best muscats
Morris of Rutherglen has had two of its wines included in the top 10 best muscats at the 2025 Muscats du Monde.
The 25th edition of the Muscats du Monde international competition organised by Forum Oenologie was held on 10 July in Burgundy, France, with 12 countries participating in what is described as one of the world’s top events for muscat wines.
Morris Classic Muscat and Old Premium Rare Muscat both received gold medals and were named in the top 10 overall.
Entries open for Mansfield show
Hours: 5723 0107
The planning amendment proposes to rezone a 24.5ha parcel of land (Lot 2 PS744661 Wangaratta Whitfield Road) from Low Density Residential Zone to
The proposed permit is for the subdivision of the 24.5ha site into 230 lots, including three super lots with the overall development potential of approximately 250 lots.
The permit application further
Council will also be required to undertake further work to finalise legal agreements associated with the integrated wastewater treatment facility.
July’s council meeting will be held tomorrow at 3pm at the Wangaratta council chambers in Ovens Street, and members of the public are welcome to attend.
Mansfield District Hospital Auxiliary is calling artists to get their entries in for their 47th art exhibition and sale being held at the Masonic Lodge in Mansfield from 31 October to 3 November.
There is a prize pool of $5500, including a major acquisitive prize of $2000, with the event to be judged by acclaimed local artist, Tony Pridham. Entries close on 24 October.
For more details go to mansfielddistricthospital.com.au.
A WANGARATTA woman will admit to trafficking and possessing more than double the commercial quantity of 1.4 butanediol after police caught a large parcel of the drug being delivered to her address while searching the home.
9261 1930.
Appearing virtually from the Seahaven drug rehabilitation centre at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, the 28-yearold successfully had her bid to have the matter dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court granted rather than being heard in a higher court.
The court heard during two police raids of the defendant’s home, officers seized 4.7kg worth of 1.4 butanediol.
During a police raid of her home on Cribbes Road on 9 January, a parcel arrived at the property which contained two litres of 1.4
butanediol and was addressed to the Wangaratta woman.
Officers opened the parcel which contained eight boxes of “cleansing” products, which the woman claimed to be for her daughter, with the drug inside.
Ice, Diazepam, sildenafil tablets, antique coins, and a Victoria Police torch was also seized in the search.
On 3 October last year police searched the woman’s MacKay Street home and found around three litres of 1.4 butanediol concealed in six fragrance boxes inside a hidden trap door.
Police also uncovered multiple ID cards of a man.
The man identified in the ID cards attended police on 13 February this year and told officers he had his wallet stolen
in Docker Street in 2023.
The court heard the packages of 1.4 butanediol were purchased from Chinese online marketplace Alibaba and delivered to the Vincent Road Post Office via Australia Post.
Phone analysis of the defendant’s phone showed messages to others indicating she was selling up to 100ml of the drug at a time and communications with sellers on Alibaba about purchasing the drugs.
She also texted others to collect parcels containing the drug from the post office for her.
After her bid for release was refused on 10 January, the Wangaratta woman would spend 140 days in custody before being bailed on 29 May to a drug rehabilitation centre.
Defence counsel Natasha Frei-
jah said the substance was of the lower level of seriousness of drugs and “extremely easy” to access.
Ms Freijah said the 1.4 butanediol was purchased from the marketplace at $250 for two litres and evidence showed her client was a regular user of the drug.
Magistrate Lance Martin granted the application to have the matter heard in the Magistrates’ Court and adjourned the plea hearing for 31 July.
“There’s nothing sophisticated about it,” he said.
“The courts have indicated it [1.4 butanediol] is a less serious drug than many others.”
Ms Freijah said the defendant would be bailed to her parent’s address in Benalla upon completion of her stay at the rehabilitation centre on 25 July.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
The long-awaited $1.59m rebuild of the Wareena Park Oval is now open for public use following months of extensive reconstruction and turf maintenance works.
Rural City of Wangaratta Council made the news public on Friday, removing barrier fencing which had been erected at the beginning of the works in October 2024.
The oval’s reconstruction includes new AFL-style goal posts, synthetic cricket pitch, benches, new turf with improved drainage and an automatic irrigation system, a new perimeter fence, repaired lighting towers and improved parking access.
The oval was also widened, with council saying its improved drainage will allow for a safer experience for players and spectators of mainly football and cricket.
Mayor Irene Grant said council was grateful for the community’s patience and understanding throughout the significant upgrade.
“While the works caused some short-term disruption, the long-term benefits will be substantial – the oval is now beautifully restored and ready to once again be a vibrant centre for local sport in Wangaratta’s CBD for many years to come,” she said.
Drainage issues have plagued accessibility of the oval for many years, particularly throughout the winter months, which was recognised as council received eagerly anticipated Victorian government funding
of $600,000 to carry out the oval’s transformation.
The works were originally slated for completion in April this year in time for the beginning of the football season, but a blowout on the timeline had left the oval’s main tenants shuffling for temporary homes throughout the season.
Kangaroos Junior Football Club and Imperials Junior Football Club have copped the brunt of the delays, re-locating training, matches and events while reconstruction took place.
Delays had largely been caused by a lack of rainfall required to properly establish the root system of the newly laid turf on the oval.
Kangaroos president Blair Downing said the club was
excited to get back to their home base, with their first training on the new oval to take place tomorrow night.
“There’s been many volunteers from us and the Imperials that have been petitioning for this so it’s great to see it come to fruition,” he said.
“We’re mainly looking forward to getting our club back together because it has been a little bit disjointed having different training grounds.
“It’s a small price to pay for what we’re going to get in the long run.”
Mr Downing said the other Wangaratta junior football clubs had been accommodating in helping the club on gamedays and he was grateful for the work done by council and their transpar-
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
New graduates are set to join Ambulance Victoria’s Wangaratta station amid a rising winter demand across the state.
Ambulance Victoria chief executive officer Jordan Emery welcomed 59 new graduate ambulance paramedics to the ranks, 17 of whom will be headed to the Hume region. There will be three recruits stationed at Wodonga, while Wangaratta, Benalla, Cobram, Yarrawonga and Mansfield will each welcome two new graduates.
“We now have more than 5500 on-road paramedics delivering the very best life-saving care, everywhere, and it’s great to see more joining our
ranks,” Mr Emery said.
He said the health system was extremely busy as seasonal illness circulates within our communities.
“Demand on our crews is increasing, as usual, at this time of year and will likely remain heightened in the coming months as cases of the flu and other respiratory viruses stay high,” Mr Emery said.
“We always plan ahead to meet extra winter demand – and that’s why we bring forward our first intake of new recruits for the financial year.
“As we hit the middle of winter, we also urge all Victorians to do their part to help reduce demand and ensure our highly skilled paramedics are available for the sickest patients.
“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 (VVED) and Urgent Care Centres.”
Having completed their university degree, all new graduates start at AV with a comprehensive four-week induction and training program giving them the ‘real world’ skills they need to hit the road alongside experienced paramedics.
During this induction, recruits learn vital skills such as safely moving and loading patients to prevent injuries, aggression and assault prevention, and safely driving ambulance vehicles.
ency throughout the project.
“This is not just for us...O&K clubs use it for training, the umpires train on there, some rugby teams go on there and play, junior school footy plays there,” he said.
“For Wangaratta to have another fantastic green space is not only for junior footy but for everybody in the community.”
Imperials co-president Paul Flynn echoed the appreciation and assistance of other clubs in the rural city and the efforts of council and AFL North East Border.
“We had College help us out, Rovers, North Wangaratta, just extra work on those clubs and the people involved have helped us to play at their venues and we’re grateful for it,” he said.
The Wangaratta District Junior Football League (WDJFL) made the decision last month to reschedule all games from Wareena Park Oval to give clubs, players and families some certainty around weekly matches.
However, council confirmed they were exploring the possibility of hosting the final two games of the WDJFL season at Wareena Park in August - an option both Kangaroos and Imperials said they would welcome.
Later in the year, contractors will aerate and top dress the oval, with timing to be advised by the turf crew as the season progresses.
The project was delivered by Gordon Gibson Nominees Pty Ltd.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
A frail 79-year-old man with dementia has been treated for exposure and is recovering after going missing from a nursing home in Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday evening.
Sergeant Martin Torpey of Wangaratta police said officers were notified at 9pm Friday that the man had been missing since 5:40pm.
A search was conducted using Police Airwing, SES, police uniform and the highway patrol.
Sgt Torpey said the man was seen on CCTV footage in the car park in the The Old Town ‘N’ Country Tavern at 6:20pm. He said at 10:45pm SES volunteers located the man face-down in a laneway near Casino Court.
Police said the man had fallen into a table drain and spent at least three hours in the muddy cold water in approximately eight degrees.
Sgt Torpey said the man was taken by ambulance to Northeast Health Wangaratta where he was treated for exposure and was still recovering on Sunday.
Snow drivers on thin ice: 500 offences
Police have voiced their concern about road safety in the alpine region, after nearly 500 offences were detected in a weekend blitz on snowy roads.
A visible enforcement was seen at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek from 11-14 July, as part of Victoria Police’s Operation Eastern Snow taking place over the snow season.
During the weekend, police detected 470 offences, with 277 drivers caught for speeding.
A new initiative is set to transform the way residents of the Rural City of Wangaratta discover and access local training opportunities.
The Community Classroom, hosted on the Rural City of Wangaratta website, is a centralised, online calendar of local, non-accredited training sessions designed to support personal development, build skills, and strengthen community connections.
From mental health first aid and digital literacy, to leadership workshops and cooking
classes, the Community Classroom brings together offerings that might otherwise be hard to find in one easy-to-use platform.
“We know there are incredible programs being delivered across our region, but the challenge has always been knowing where to find them,” said Bek Nash-Webster, coordinator of the Grit and Resilience Program.
“The Community Classroom helps overcome that by putting local learning in the spotlight and making it easi-
er than ever for community members to engage.”
The page will feature both in-person and online opportunities, with a focus on being inclusive, practical, and accessible, including free or low-cost options.
The platform is now live and preparing for a public launch in August.
Sunny Vita Schifferle was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Wednesday, 16 July at 1.37am and weighed 3.6kg (7lb 9oz). She is the daughter of Imogen and James Schifferle of Myrtleford.
At this stage, the focus is on encouraging community organisations, trainers and groups to submit their upcoming training via a simple online form.
Among the first to jump on board the initiative is Pangerang Community Hub, a well-loved community centre in Wangaratta known for its welcoming environment and grassroots learning programs.
Pangerang Community Hub has already listed a range of courses; from digital support and men’s cooking classes, to yoga and arts classes.
“We’re proud to support the Community Classroom,” said Tennille Hall, Pangerang Community Hub
executive officer.
“Because we know how important it is to make learning visible and accessible across our community.”
If your organisation offers skills-based, community-focused training - big or small - you’re invited to list your events now.
For more information, or to access the provider info pack, contact the Grit and Resilience Program by emailing gritandresilience@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call 03 5722 0888.
Isaiah Alex was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, 17 July at 5.33pm and weighed 3.4kg (7lb 9oz). He is a brother for Evan and Yohan, and the son of Sonymol Joseph and Aneesh Francis of Wangaratta.
The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.
Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.
By
Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office. WHAT’S UP WITH THE
Mid-way through July and Wangaratta is seeing slightly warmer temperatures than normal.
The mean maximum temperature to date of 13.4 degrees and mean minimum temperature of 3.1 degrees are both a fraction of a degree above the July average.
Monday, 20 July, 2015
By SHANE DOUTHIE
A piece of potentially lifesaving medical equipment being developed in Wangaratta could one day be in every emergency trolley in every hospital in the world.
The revolutionary ‘stylet’ is being developed by Wangaratta specialist anaesthetist and Clinical Associate Professor Peter Hebbard, along with two young doctors training as anaesthetists, Dr Erin Bourke and Dr Irfan El Hassan.
“We looked at a potential cause of failure of an emergency oxygenation system called cricothyroidotomy, a lifesaving procedure where
a fine catheter tube is placed into the windpipe to provide oxygen when a patient is suffocating under anaesthesia or elsewhere,” Dr Hebbard explained.
“Unfortunately, the procedure is associated with a lot of problems when it is used in an emergency with a high failure rate.”
That failure rate is around 64 per cent and can lead to serious complications and even death.
The Wangaratta team pondered the problem and
wondered if the catheter tube might be boring a hole in the windpipe as the oxygen is injected, with oxygen then injected outside the windpipe into the tissues of the neck and chest.
“There were some reports in the journals of damage to the windpipe many years ago but the actual passage of the catheter tube itself boring into the wall had not been considered,” Dr Hebbard said.
To advance their theory Dr Hebbard struck on the idea of experimenting on ‘fresh’ sheep tracheas which are similar to the human windpipe.
The experiments showed the catheter tubes could damage the wall of the tracheas and even inject gas
right through the wall.
The team then used a wire stylet similar to a system for an intravenous stylet that Dr Hebbard was already developing and already has a patent application for, and the results were astonishing.
The stylet effectively leads the way for the catheter by touching the back wall of the windpipe after it is inserted and then veering slightly upwards with the catheter following its route from behind.
Dr Hebbard said his ultimate goal was to make the revolutionary stylet so it would be inexpensive and widely available but added there was still a lot of work to do.
For other North East centres of Benalla, Rutherglen, Yarrawonga and Albury, the mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures have also been around 13 degrees and three degrees respectively.
The lowest temperature to date this month was from minus 1.0 to minus 2.5 degrees. It is interesting to note all five major centres during June recorded lower than minus three degrees on four mornings and there has been none so far this month.
Wangaratta Art Gallery is hosting a new monthly lunchtime activity designed to help everyone slow down, switch off their screens and connect in real life through art.
Analog Art Club is a statewide program from Public Galleries Association of Victoria and ArtsHub, inviting participants to experience inspiration without interruption.
The phone-free initiative is hosted by galleries across Victoria, offering regular events where participants can slow down, create and engage deeply with art and community.
Each gallery brings its own flavour to the program, but all share the same goal: to make art social, accessible and refreshingly offline.
The club will run on the fourth Thursday of every month at Wangaratta Art Gallery between 1pm and 2pm, with the first event to be held this Thursday, 24 July from 1pm. All are welcome to come along during the lunch hour and take a breather from the day to reflect, discuss, and experience art together.
Participants can share insights, see and discover new things and even do a little making of their own inspired by the art around them.
No art experience is necessary - just a little curiosity and conversation.
The event is free and no bookings are required, with more information including future dates at wangarattaartgallery.com.au.
Rural property correction, with amended plan to deliver a ‘fairer distribution of rating burden’
An amended Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-29 and a revised 2025-26 budget will be presented at Tuesday’s council meeting, following an error in the revenue and rating plan endorsed in May.
Council officers discovered an error in the application of rural property rate differential definitions during final budget checks, which would have resulted in incorrect rates being issued.
The amended Revenue and Rating Plan includes updated and expanded differential category definitions to ensure a fairer distribution of the rating burden across all land categories.
A full rate audit has also been conducted. The 2025-26 budget has been revised to reflect these changes and 75 per cent of property owners will now pay lower rates than those endorsed in May.
Council remains compliant with the Victorian government’s three per cent rate cap for 2025-26.
Council’s director of corporate and leisure, Sarah Brindley said the oversight has not affected property owners, as rate notices are scheduled for distribution throughout August.
“We want to reassure the community that previous rate notices have been accurate, as the recent definition
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
change was not applicable in prior years,” she said.
“Each year, the Essential Services Commission (ESC) independently reviews council’s compliance with the rate cap.
“Council have been consistently compliant since monitoring began in 2016-17.”
Rural City of Wangaratta mayor Irene Grant said council’s intentions for 2025-26 rates were to provide rate support to farmers on larger
agricultural land who have faced recent challenges due to dry conditions, changes to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, and whose rate contribution has increased substantially since 2020.
“The amended Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-29 and resulting 2025/26 Revised Budget will ensure we have fairer rates for our community and rate notices will be issued in August,” Cr Grant said.
Individual rate calculations are based on annual property valuations by the Victorian Valuer-General and differential rate categories. Changes to individual rates will depend on property value fluctuations and any changes to a property’s differential category.
Ratepayers experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to contact the rates team on 5722 0838.
Reopening public access to Wareena Park Oval on Friday, following a $1.59 rebuild, has quite rightly been welcomed by the community.
The oval is a hub for junior sport, a place where families and young people come together each week to train, compete and connect.
It is also widely used by the community for other sport and recreation activities, from cricketers to dog walkers.
We all know the vital importance sport plays in the health and wellbeing of our community and in an age where things are more and more online with no in-person contact, it is key for us to encourage all community members, not just the young ones, to get outdoors and enjoy what the rural city has on offer.
This rebuild is a significant component of the Wareena Park masterplan adopted by council for the area, and while it will have many benefits for the community there are still a number of components yet to be delivered.
The masterplan’s vision for the area is to transform it into a multi-generational place for all, and a key component remains providing a permanent home base for the Wangaratta Senior Citizens Club.
This club has been without a permanent home since their facilities were demolished in Ford Street to make way for the Big W development over 20 years ago.
Council has always maintained external funding from state or federal governments will be needed to deliver further developments in the Wareena precinct.
Let us enjoy the new oval, but continue to pursue what else can be made of this precinct with its aged club facilities, vacant former bowls club and greenfield site where the Olympic pool stood for 60 years.
1. 1. In March 2017, who replaced Michael Mischin as Attorney-General of Western Australia?
2. 2. What are the three colours on the flag of Italy?
3. 3. A gavel is most commonly made from what?
4. 4. In which sport can someone win the Venus Rosewater Dish?
5. 5. Which of The Golden Girls characters was played by Rue McClanahan?
6. 6. Moruroa Atoll is located in which ocean?
7. 7. What type of creature is an American Wirehair?
8. 8. The 1993 book, The Motorcycle Diaries, traces the early travels of which person?
9. 9. In computer terminology, what does “gif” stand for?
10. 10. What is the most populous city in in Brazil?
11. 11. What was the final studio album by INXS to feature Michael Hutchence?
12. 12. Mark Vaile was a former leader of which political party of Australia?
13. 13. In which 2017 movie did Josh Gad play the role of LeFou?
14. 14. Which nursery rhyme asks, “Have you any wool?”?
15. 15. What is the world’s largest coral reef system?
16. 16. Korsakoff’s syndrome affects which specific part of the body?
17. 17. The Diamantina River stretches over which two Australian states?
18. 18. Which country won Eurovision 2017?
19. 19. Kobe Bryant is best known for his involvement in which sport?
20. 20. The foreign intelligence services of which country sunk the Rainbow Warrior in 1985?
Our Facebook users have been commenting on the arrest of the alleged Paradise Falls vandals.
Sylvia Holloway: Great news, I hope they are punished and made to clean up the mess they made. They should be ashamed.
Liz Blair: Get the grubs to clean it
William Magnus: Liz Blair and an incentive to reduce jail time Lisa Delahunty Peach:
William Magnus they won’t get time, they’ll get a community corrections order!!
Simon Attard: Great work from our local police. It was only a matter of time before they were caught.
Mason Scholes: Congratulations to police and whoever helped. Fantastic news. I hope a strong message is sent that matches community expectations. Again, terrific work police Fab Mancini: This is
The Nationals have vowed to strongly oppose new legislation proposed by the Allan Labor Government that would allow government officials and transmission companies to enter private farmland without consent and fine landholders who object.
The National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Bill would hand sweeping powers to VicGrid and authorised officers, allowing them to forcibly access private property, cut locks, break gates, and issue penalties for resistance.
Under the Bill, landholders who obstruct access to authorised officers could face fines up to $12,210.
Refusing to provide identification or proof of ownership may attract penalties over $4000.
Interfering with notices of entry could incur fines of more than $1200. Corporations face even higher fines, reaching nearly $49,000.
This is an extraordinary overreach from a government that has lost control of their energy rollout, and once again it is hardworking farmers and regional families who will bear the brunt of their reckless decisions.
The government is prioritising energy companies over property rights, biosecurity, and liability concerns if something goes wrong, such as livestock escaping or disease spreading.
Instead of backing regional Victorians during one of the toughest seasons, this government is threatening them with fines and bulldozing their rights.
Annabelle Cleeland, Nationals’ MP for Euroa
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has partnered with Nutrien Ag Solutions to provide Victorian farmers with dedicated drought support resources as they continue to face record-breaking drought conditions.
The new Nutrien Ag Solutions funded initiative is dubbed the Victorian Drought Support Program and will support the VFF to employ a dedicated Drought Support Advisor to help farmers to access existing drought support grants, coordinate well-being events and act as a critical link between farmers and decision makers to identify potential gaps in drought support.
fantastic news, police have “Tags”on records and know who’s responsible, most graffiti vandals keep to their signature “Tags” great work for catching these scumbags
Mandi Jane: No skills for being that age and clearly zero respect either. I honestly thought that was the work of primary school aged children. Make them clean it! No free passes either, they knew what they
were doing.
Kim Huggins: tective work. I was hoping it wasn’t locals!
Paul Hearn: Good but they’ll walk away with a small fine and go do it again
Greg Brown: Charged and slapped on wrist, Linda Simpson: Good to hear they found these no-talent sub-humans!
Ang Wymond: Get them to clean it off. With a toothbrush. Idiots. Have your say Like the
and to identify future areas of support to lend farmers a helping hand.
Farmers in every corner of Victoria are telling us they need a central point they can contact when it comes to drought assistance and the issues they’re facing.
Thanks to Nutrien Ag Solutions for helping us to make this happen.
Farmers can directly contact the VFF’s Drought Support Advisor, Kim Tupper, who will help streamline individual drought applications, connect farmers with financial counsellors and mental heath services, and provide risk management support.
Go to the VFF website for more details.
Brett Hosking, VFF president
Rural community organisations across Australia are invited to apply for funding to upgrade local hall and community centre facilities through Rabobank’s newly-launched Community Hub Improvement Program.
The program – which is planned to run annually – has an overall pool of $120,000 available, providing the opportunity for 12 selected applicants to receive funding of $10,000 each to go towards improvements to their local rural hall or community centre.
To be eligible for consideration, the local hall or community centre must be: based in rural Australia, defined as a building or space that is open and accessible to the local community, provide services that the local population wants and needs, and is seen as playing a vital role in supporting vibrant and inclusive communities.
As a bank focussed on agriculture and rural communities, Rabobank recognises the important role community hubs and halls play in regional Australia, where halls and community centres can be far more than just buildings and can be the “heartbeat” of the community.
Applications are open from now until Sunday, 24 August 24, with recipients to be announced in early October 2025.
To apply, and for further information on the Rabobank Community Hub Improvement Program, please visit the Rabobank website.
Mark Wiessing, Rabobank Australia CEO
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.
The initiative aims to act as a ‘one-stopshop’ for farmers seeking drought assistance
The program is being funded by Rabobank’s Rabo Community Fund, which –since launching in 2021 – has invested into initiatives designed to support the vitality and sustainability of rural and regional communities.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
Last Thursday’s July store sale buoyed local spirits with the 851 head yarded at Wangaratta Livestock Exchange attracting strong interest and solid prices.
Figures set up well ahead of the spring weaner sale in August with quality bred stock to be showcased and numbers still high despite recent clear outs.
Corcoran and Parker livestock agent Reiley Murtagh spoke of Thursday’s yarding as wintery, with the top pen of cows and calves making $1850 each as they were lighter cows with calf at foot.
“It’s definitely stronger in the cows and calf section and there were a fair number of pre tested in calf (PTIC) cattle,” Mr Murtagh told the Wangaratta Chronicle.
“They were very strong, good types, calving in the August and they topped out at $2250, with others at $2000 and $1900.
“These prices were held up by the meat market and slaughter houses who were there to buy those heavier cows and then some were retained to go back to the paddock.
“That’s a definite increase on what we’ve been seeing and it’s fairly positive to see people lining up to buy them for breeding.”
Mr Murtagh reported there weren’t many feeder steers to quote and there were only a select few that topped out at $4.77/kg and very nice black steers at 380kg.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
“Lighter restocking steers weighing 300kg-370kg saw a jump, making up to $5 to $5.10/$5.20/kg,” he said.
“Black steers 200-280kg made up to $5.50.
“Under 200kg made a top of $6.60/kg and when we see steers at the $6 mark, albeit for lighter cattle, it is great money and there is a fair bit of positivity in that black scene.”
Coloured steers were stronger again, with lighter animals making a tick over $5/ kg, with several at $4.40/kg.
The feeder/heifer job and a select pen made $4.10 and a couple of off types $3.80/kg.
Into the lighter heifers, 300350kg made $3.50-$3.60/kg
There were some out to $4 but a lot of them sat around $3.30-$3.80/kg.
“It’s tightening up everywhere and the meat markets are extremely strong so they’re stepping into any of those good breeding cows, even just for slaughter on a meat grid,”
Mr Murtagh said.
“We have had a bit of rain and it just needs to keep coming, but the positivity around the market is changing.”
The Gordon Sinclair Memorial Weaner Sale will be held on 21 August and early indications suggest there will be about 2500 head of cattle yarded.
“I’m expecting that sale to
be where it is now, if not better, and anyone who will have cattle around at that time, they will perform strongly,” Mr Murtagh said.
“If anyone has cattle for that spring sale they definitely should be looking at getting them up for this sale at Wangaratta.”
If the August sale realises 3000 head, Mr Murtagh said “it would be unreal”, however, he said it’s probably going to look more like 2500.
He said year-in year-out the cattle that get nominated are by operators who are focused on that sale alone.
“There will be less numbers at it due to the amount of pressure that’s been on the local producer who had to sell cattle earlier,” he said.
“It will be the tops of our area though.”
Forecasts suggest more rain in the next two weeks and Mr Murtagh said it’s paramount that this comes as the ground continues to soak up the water.
If that happens it’s going to be a good spring and while stocks are depleted and prices are high, judging by what’s selling now, it sets up well for buyers.
“The cattle that people are buying are coming out of a tougher autumn and winter and they’re a big-framed animal so on a cents per kilo outlook, the cattle are perfect to buy,” Mr Murtagh said.
“People who have grass/ feed, this is the best opportunity for them.”
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
The wreckage of a small plane which departed Wangaratta on Tuesday has been found in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales.
A NSW Police spokesperson said at 4pm on Thursday a rescue helicopter located the suspected wreckage at what was believed to be the plane’s last known GPS location, east of Khancoban.
Bega man David Stephens, 74,
was the sole occupant of the 1966 Beechcraft Debonair .
David’s wife, Lynda Stephens, issued a statement to the ABC on Thursday, saying Mr Stephens had gone missing after having his plane inspected at Wangaratta.
“It is known that the mountain weather can turn very quickly, and we can only assume he must have seen a way over the mountain to decide not to turn back to Wangaratta,” she said.
“David has quite a bit of experi-
ence flying that plane, but we can’t know what situation he was facing, and we’ll only have answers once they locate the plane and with that David.”
Ms Stephens said her husband had been flying planes since the 1960s and he was only two months away from retiring as an accountant.
“Which makes the situation more heartbreaking as his family was looking to spend more time with him after decades of work,” she said.
Ms Stephens said her husband
was also a well-known and respected rally sport competitor, as well as a member of other motorsport clubs in the Sapphire Coast region.
Mr Stephens’ aircraft was reported missing at around 4:30pm Tuesday when Air Services Australia notified the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) it had failed to reach Moruya airport on the NSW South Coast after taking off from Wangaratta the same day.
A multi-agency search took place
over the next two days amid harsh alpine terrain, with restricted visibility and low clouds hampering efforts.
UPDATE: BODY FOUND
A body believed to be that of a missing pilot has been located in the wreckage of a plane.
Just before 3pm on Friday police located the body of a man near the crash site.
The body is yet to be formally identified but police believe it is that of the pilot David Stephens.
Sharing a love of flying with people of all ages is the focus of the Benalla-based Gliding Club of Victoria (GCV), particularly ahead of a national competition to be held in early 2026.
Based at the historic Benalla Airfield, the not-for-profit, volunteer-run club is dedicated to making the dream of flight accessible, particularly for young people, women and girls.
“In a time when so much of aviation has been commercialised, we’re proud to remain a community-driven club focused on passion, not profit,” club president Andy Davison said.
“Our mission is simple: to share a love of flying and create a welcoming hub for all.”
Open to all ages and backgrounds, GCV offers a unique entry point into the world of aviation through inclusive memberships, youth-focused programs, and volunteer-powered instruction.
“Whether you’re 15 or 65, there’s a place for you on the airfield,” Andy said.
The club has 140 flying members, including locals and those who live in Melbourne and travel to fly in Benalla.
GCV is intensifying its efforts to engage with aspiring pilots from regional areas as well as young people, who are commonly underrepresented in modern aviation.
Through hands-on gliding experiences and mentorship from experienced volunteers, members are discovering more than a hobby; they’re finding career inspiration.
“We want to show young people that this isn’t just a weekend activity, it can be the beginning of something much
bigger,” instructor Matt Woodhouse said.
“Many of our former juniors have gone on to become airline pilots, air traffic controllers, or aeronautical engineers.”
Club member Jeremy Skuse said for young people interested in aviation, gliding was a “gateway”.
To support this pathway, the club is building partnerships with local schools and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) programs to connect curiosity with career development.
From January 18 to 25, the club will also host JoeyGlide, the Australian Junior National Gliding Championships and coaching program.
This premier event will showcase the country’s most talented junior glider pilots, aged under 25.
“This is a great opportunity for young people and the community to experience the excitement of competition gliding,” Andy said.
“Come meet the pilots, explore the aircraft, and witness the thrill of silent flight.”
GCV boasts a dedicated volunteer base, with members serving as instructors, launch crew, engineers and administrators - not for pay, but for the love of flight and community.
“There’s something deeply rewarding about paying it forward - helping others learn to fly, literally and figuratively,” longtime volunteer Craig Blunt said.
“That sense of connection is what keeps us coming back, year after year.”
The club’s youngest member is aged 14, while some mem-
70s and 80s, highlighting the lifelong joy and friendships the club fosters.
GCV offers air experience flights - a chance to soar silent ly on natural updrafts, with no engine, just the wind and the wings - and these flights often serve as the first step into a life long passion for aviation.
One young student de scribed the experience after her first flight as being “free dom in its purest form”.
The Gliding Club of Victoria, affectionately known by locals as the Benalla Gliding Club,
gliding firsthand.
“No matter your background, gender, or level of ex-
“All you need is a sense of wonder and a willingness to learn.”
suring the dream of aviation remains alive, accessible, and inspiring.
Local pilots of all licence categories are being invited to attend a safety seminar conducted by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Shepparton this Wednesday, 23 July.
Each year, CASA’s aviation safety advisors host free seminars across Australia to help pilots refresh their skills, enhance their knowledge and improve flight safety.
Aviation safety advisor Tim Penney said the forum was designed to complement any level of technical knowledge, from novice to highlyexperienced pilots.
Topics covered in the seminar include the basics of human communication; aviation communica-
tion rules and procedures; real-life examples of how things can go wrong; techniques to improve communication; use of an Aerodrome Frequency Response Unit; and reallife case studies.
The Shepparton seminar will be held at the Goulburn Valley Aero Club in Kialla from 6.30pm to 8.30pm this Wednesday, 23 July.
To register, visit https://events. humanitix.com/avsafety-seminarshepparton-l7e8seke
Deniliquin Aero Club will host a seminar the following day, and more information on this session is available at https://events. humanitix.com/avsafety-seminardeniliquin.
TRAINING FOR ALL: The CASA forum is designed to complement any level of technical knowledge, from novice to highly experienced pilots.
Entries are open for the 137th Rutherglen Wine Show and 2025 Australian Fortified Wine Show with about 1000 entries expected for this year’s event.
Judging will take place from 8 to 11 September, with an exhibitors tasting to be held on Thursday, 25 September from 10am to 3pm in the Henderson Pavilion, Rutherglen.
A presentation dinner will also be held on Thursday, 25 September at 6.30pm at Tuileries Restaurant at De Bortoli Wines, Rutherglen, with a
public tasting to follow on Friday, 26 September from 6pm to 10pm in the Henderson Pavilion (bookings required). The committee and judges, led by McWilliams senior winemaker Russell Cody, are particularly excited about the continuing growth of the dedicated Iberian classes, reflecting the increasing interest in these wines in Australia.
To find out more visit rutherglenwineshow.com. au, with entries closing on 1 August.
ACROSS
3 Name a city in the Republic of South Africa (8)
7 To be more active, is to be what (6)
8 Name a self-contradictory figure of speech (8)
9 Which plant is valued for its reddish edible root (6)
10 What is a presentation to view, especially in an open manner (8)
11 Name another term for gain (6)
14 Which people show us to our theatre seats (6)
17 To pass too far, is to do what (8)
18 Name an alternative term for a pill (6)
19 To be in disuse, is to be what (8)
20 How many players are there in a cricket team (6)
21 What is a turning inside out (8) DOWN
1 Who is in charge of a museum (7)
2 Which part of the body is between the chest and the waist (7)
3 To defend, is to do what (7)
4 What do we call boisterous, romping girls (7)
Letters
5 To send elsewhere, is to do what (7)
Some
6 Which term describes to be without a bristlelike appendage (7)
11 To advance in rank, is to do what (7)
12 What does a supervisor do (7)
13 What are parts of shoes or boots (7)
14 Name an indefinite large number (7)
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
15 To be lower in dignity, is to be what (7)
16 What might we call an umpire (7)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 AQUEOUS (a) Complying
(b) Informed
(c) Watery
2 ERUDITION (a) A
(b) Learning (c) Utter destruction
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:
Examined accounts (7)
Disturbances (2-3)
Natural sweetener (5)
Purr (3)
Tsar,17C: ... the Great (5) Sardinia (abb) (3)
Small enclosed truck (7) Tilt (3)
Transporter (5) Yes (coll) (3)
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
Wangaratta Cycling Club AGM
Friday, July 25, 2025 at 6pm
In the club rooms at the Wangaratta Sale Yards.
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.
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. FIREWOOD
Redgum, yellow and grey box, all size loads, mill edgings in lengths, bulka bags 1 metre, garden sleepers, post and rail fencing. Ph 0448 933 999
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.
PASTURE hay rolls, in shed, $190 cash, small numbers. Ph 5727 6227.
1995 Toyota Corolla, reliable economical car, with 260,000km, will go strong for a while yet, good alloy wheels and tyres, should pass RW easily, reg (UKP874), cheap at $1750 ONO. Ph 0434 237 976.
4WD 2007 Mitsubishi Triton and 14ft Jayco Starcraft Caravan package, good condition, perfect for a trip around Australia, reg (WJX174) $18,000. Contact jjkoch@ hotmail.com
2005 Landcruiser GXL, auto, v8 petrol, grey metallic, 335,000kms, new tyres, bull bar, tow ball, 1 owner, excellent condition, reg till March (V1577), RWC, $26,000. Ph 0428 791 333.
FORD Fairlane Ghia, new tyres, new h/ lining, new exhaust, electric brakes, tow bar, Tickford motor, 163,000km, reg (SHS752), RWC, $9800. Ph 0438 251 532.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
AUSTRALIAN made
Aussie Swag Challenger 02’, hard floor rear fold camper, Toyota 6 stud wheels, electric brakes, GVM 1000Kg - easy to tow, quick setup-pack up c/w slide out and swing stainless steel kitchen, 45L Engel fridge, 2x45kg gas bottles, 60L water tank, solar panel, new battery, DC-DC charger, excellent canvas with awning and sides, great condition overall, 12 months reg, $7500 ono. Ph 0417 013 452.
GALAXY SOUTHERN CROSS SERIES 4 17.6ft, pop up, excellent condition, no shower or toilet, double bed, diesel heater, full annex, tv and many extras available, full reg and 12 months insurance included Ph 0438 003 652 $18,000 ONO
WINDSOR Seaview
Caravan 2004 Dual Axle, registered until October 2025, full annex - never used by us, new awning installed and recently fully serviced, single beds, 2 x 100ltr water tanks, 3-way refrigerator, 4 burner gas stove, portaloo with privacy tent, new 24" Smart TV, all cookware, electric appliances, bed linen, towels, cutlery, cooking utensils, Sunbeam portable oven, fully equipped, excellent condition, reluctant sale due to health issues, price $21,000. Ph 0418 174 466.
2015 Lagoon caravan 17’6 semi off-road, reg to 2026, solar/AC, electronic stability control, 3-way fridge/ freezer, full ensuite, led lights, duel LPG tanks (full), duel jerry tank holders, grey water tank, $37,500 ONO. Ph 0404 206 586.
Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy is seeking an Electorate Officer
Electorate officers play in important role providing services to the Victorian community.
Reporting to the Member of Parliament, your work will require a high degree of trust and integrity. Confidentiality is also a key requirement when interacting with constituents and visitors to the office or in the community.
Based in the Wangaratta electorate office, you will interact daily with constituents, community organisations and other stakeholders.
Key responsibilities include:
· Communication officer
· Constituent services
· Media and stakeholder engagement
· Parliamentary duties & policy development
About You:
The role of an Electorate Officer requires you to demonstrate:
· Initiative and ability, particularly to perform a broad range of office support duties, often to tight deadlines and with limited supervision.
· Good written and oral communication skills with a proven ability to provide sound advice to staff and constituents.
· Sound computer skills with experience in MS suite of software and online communications.
· Commitment to provide the highest level of client service and maintain the strictest confidence on all issues.
· Ability to exercise sound judgement in assessing and directing enquiries from media and external stakeholders.
· Ability to work effectively in a team environment and respect the needs of others.
· Ability to evaluate work procedures, practices, and systems and to implement change.
· Behaviours consistent with Electorate Officer values and Code of Conduct, including the ability to display high levels of responsiveness, integrity, impartiality, accountability, and respect in relationships with others and decision making.
Salary Electorate Officer salaries are set out in the Electorate Officers (Victoria) Single Enterprise Agreement 2021.
Full-time $73,779 per annum plus 12% employer superannuation employer superannuation
Part-time $73,779 (pro rata) per annum plus 12% employer superannuation employer superannuation
Ongoing: This is a full-time position however part-time can be negotiated.
Pre-Employment Screening requirements:
All appointments are subject to receipt of a satisfactory National Name (Police) Check, Integrity Assessment and Working with Children Check. Successful candidates who do not currently hold a Working with Children Check will be required to obtain a check within 3 months of commencement of employment.
As part of the selection process, you may be asked to complete an online competency or skills assessment.
Job Advertisement – Grade 1 How to apply: Please send your resume and a brief
and how it directly relates to the
to 37 Reid St Wangaratta 3677 or email tim.mccurdy@parliament.vic.gov.au
Applications close: 27 July 2025 Further information: Please call Jacinta 5721 6155
Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person for a full-time position as a General Labourer. Starting time will be 6am for an 8hr day, duties include normal labouring duties also cleaning and iron cleaning. Award rates and conditions will apply. Apply by e-mail to wang@austprimelamb.com.au or at 53 Greta Road Wangaratta ask for an application form from Wayne Saunders.
An opportunity has arisen to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties across our group.
Skills and Experience
• Prior experience in an administration position
• Ability to handle debtor/creditor queries
• Solid computer skills, including experience with Excel and Word
• Accurate data entry and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Exceptional customer service
• The ability to work in a team-based environment
• Proven time-management skills and ability to prioritise urgent work
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: Yvonne Cypser
Administration/Finance Manager ycypser@nemedia.com.au
McDONALD, Wayne Scott. 10/10/1977 – 12/7/2025
Passed away suddenly and peacefully at Northeast Health. Sadly, missed by his mother Joan, daughter Tahlia, sister Kerri and brother-in-law Shane. Uncle of Rhys and Alyssa. Your suffering is over, you will be sadly missed. Rest in peace.
McDONALD
A funeral service to honour the life of Wayne Scott McDonald will be held at St Michaels Anglican Church, 42a Appin Street, Wangaratta at 11am on Friday, July 25, 2025 followed by a private cremation.
Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person for a full-time position as a General Labourer. Forklift Licence is essential.
Starting time will be 6am for an 8hr day, duties include normal labouring duties also cleaning and iron cleaning. Award rates and conditions will apply. Apply by e-mail to wang@austprimelamb.com.au or at 53 Greta Road Wangaratta and ask for an application form from Wayne Saunders.
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.
The memory of
■ From back page
“It wasn’t pretty at times, but just to be able to compete a bit better when the ball hit the deck and create a bit more score from forward pressure and a bit more from our forward entry.”
The Lions move two games clear inside the top six, with Goorambat even on points with fifth-placed Bonnie Doon.
Elsewhere, BRIGHT reconfirmed they’re one of the teams to beat in September after dominating fellow contenders Milawa, taking the points at Pioneer Park.
The scoreboard damage could’ve been even greater had Bright kicked accurately, coming in 10.20 (80) to the Demons’ 5.5 (35).
From relative parity early, the game opened up after quarter time, with the Demons held scoreless by a rampaging Mountain Men outfit.
Their forwards would be ruing the missed opportunities to put the game to bed, kicking eight behinds in the term.
With a 22-point lead heading into the second half, Bright would hold off a counterattack from the Demons, with the Milawa midfield starting to control the flow of play more.
However, it was too little, too late, as the Mountain Men came home in a storm of goals, going top of the O&K ladder with four matches to play.
Bright’s Wayland Wales slotted four goals, with Pat Bren and
Cooper Thomason recording two each, while Milawa’s Josh Owen and Aaron Law were among the best.
MOYHU was also among the winners list after they recorded their largest win of the season, defeating Benalla All Blacks by 135 points.
The 23.19 (157) to 3.4 (22) result was set up by a dominant first half from the Hoppers, who held a 55-point advantage at the main break.
The pain kept coming for the Panthers, with Moyhu slamming on 14 goals through the second half in a show of utter dominance, with Harry Verdon, George Hearn and Darby West (five goals) all having a major impact on the game.
It was a thriller at the Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve, where KING VALLEY roared to salute 8.7 (55) to the Bulldogs 6.11 (47).
The Roos led by 20 points early, but the tenacious Tarrawingee kept fighting and brought themselves within 10 points at the final change of ends.
It was a pitched final quarter, but King Valley had enough in the tank to outlast.
Charlie Davies was best on ground for the Roos, while Tarrawingee’s Dan Hogarth and Hugh Amery pitched in.
BONNIE DOON had North Wangaratta’s measure by 44 points, 16.6 (102) to the Hawks 9.4 (58), with Tim Berenyi booting four goals for the Bombers and David Killen among the best for the Hawks.
WHOROULY 5.0
GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 5, A. Newton 2, J. Newton 2, M. Scott 1, J. Smith 1, M. Vescio 1. GOORAMBAT: B. Stepien 2, D. O’Kane 1, V. Butler 1, T. Nolan 1, K. Black 1, C. Hunter 1.
BEST: WHOROULY: M. Scott, J. Smith, E. Bramich, D. O’Shannessy, D. Boyle, S. Piazza. GOORAMBAT: D. O’Kane, B. Wapling, D. Beavis, S. Gladstone, J. Dunne, C. McCoy.
BRIGHT 3.3 5.11 6.15 10.20.80
MILAWA 3.1 3.1 5.1 5.5.35
GOALS: BRIGHT: W. Wales 4, C. Thomason 2, P. Bren 2, J. Crawley 1, J. Love 1. MILAWA: B. Kearns 2, H. Graham 1, B. Bartlett 1, M. Giles 1.
BEST: BRIGHT: J. Gray, J. Hudghton, W. Wales, A. Dalbosco, B. Brain, K. Jamieson. MILAWA: J. Owen, A. Law, R. Petts, M. Giles, H. Kebede, D. Fountain.
Moyhu 4 6 (30) Benalla All Blacks 12 13 (85)
BEST: MOYHU: M. Startin, H. Currie, R. Hargreaves, N. Chin, A. Balfour, A. Welsh. BENALLA ALL BLACKS A. Jacka, L. Norman, J. Smith, B. Marlborough, D. Bell. Bright 9 13 (67) Milawa 3 5 (23)
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE: Whorouly 29 drew with Goorambat 29; Moyhu 78 def Benalla 35; Bonnie Doon 55 def Nth Wangaratta; Tarrawingee 59 def King Valley 29; Bright 34 def by Milawa 47
B GRADE: Whorouly 37 def by Goorambat 44; Bright 31 def by Milawa 43; Bonnie Doon 69 def Nth Wangaratta 35; Tarrawingee 37 def King Valley 28
B RESERVE: Whorouly 52 def Goorambat 31; Bright 31 def by Milawa 37; Moyhu 23 def by Benalla 38; Bonnie Doon 54 def Nth Wangaratta 20; Tarrawingee 45 def King Valley 24
C GRADE: Whorouly 34 def Goorambat 31; Bright 23 def Milawa 21; Bonnie Doon 76 def Nth Wangaratta 20; Tarrawingee 42 def King Valley 41
15 & UNDER: Whorouly 62 def Goorambat 13; Bright 48 def Milawa 23; Moyhu 29 def by Benalla 42; Bonnie Doon 88 def Nth Wangaratta 2; Tarrawingee 36 def by King Valley 37 No other scores available at time of print
SATURDAY, JULY 26
KING VALLEY vs GRETA
BENALLA vs WHOROULY
NTH WANGARATTA vs MOYHU
TARRAWINGEE vs BRIGHT
MILAWA vs GOORAMBAT
BONNIE DOON - BYE
MOYHU 3.5 9.10 17.16 23.19.157
BENALLA 0.1 1.2 2.2 3.4.22
GOALS: MOYHU: D. West 5, G. Hearn 4, B. Zimmermann 3, N. Stewart 3, H. Verdon 2, H. Bell 1, A. Thrum 1, M. Thrum 1, P. McNamara 1, K. Pensak 1, D. Simpson 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: J. Walker 2, D. Sinclair 1.
BEST: MOYHU: H. Verdon, H. Bell, M. Thrum, G. Hearn, N. Gamble, P. McNamara. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Broughton, J. Walker, T. Levy, L. Sinclair, D. Sinclair, D. Button.
BONNIE DOON 5.2 9.2 13.4 16.6.102
NTH WANGARATTA 0.1 1.2 5.2 9.4.58
GOALS: BONNIE DOON: T. Berenyi 4, A. Brkljacic 2, J. Magro 2, J. Curtin 2, C. Smedley 2, P. Cairns 1, L. James 1, B. Smith 1, J. Malan 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: D. Killen 3, B. Lane-Gee 1, S. Johnson 1, T. Nanson 1, T. Schulze 1, J. Devine 1, K. Norman 1.
BEST: BONNIE DOON: P. Cairns, T. Berenyi, B. Smith, J. Curtin, P. Smith, T. Smith. NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Schulze,
■ From back page
“‘Muz’ [Rovers coach Sam Murray] put it on us to be a bit more accountable and get our hands dirty.
“I think in these sorts of games, finals-like footy, contested ball clearance is where it’s won.
“It was good to get on top in that area after quarter time, I think it helped wrestle it back.
“You can’t understate what Ed Dayman’s doing in the ruck, virtually playing almost 100 per cent game time – what that allows us to do forward of the ball with Will [Christie] is really underrated.”
Christie finished with two goals alongside Alex McCarthy, with Kieren Parnell, Xavier Allison, and Nathan Cooper also in the best.
It was a tough day for the Magpies, with superstars Cam Barrett [knee] and Aiden Tilley [ankle] having to be helped off the park late with serious-looking injuries.
Club champion Michael Bordignon played well in his 200th
match for the black and white, while Brad Melville and defensive rising star Patrick Wright also per formed well.
“The best side won, they were a bit too classy in the end,” Magpies coach Jason Heatley said.
“One thing I won’t question is our effort, I thought our effort was there.
“We were probably looking for ways to hit the scoreboard at dif ferent times, but they were able to defend pretty well also, and they bat pretty deep through their mid field group.
“He [Wright] was certainly in our top two or three, and it’s a real testament to his development and the work he’s put in, so it’s nice he’s getting some rewards.
“It was a big day for Michael Bordignon, he’s just a super per son, and the boys gave everything for him.”
The Magpies and Rovers will take next weekend off as the O&M split round continues.
The brown and gold army would be proud of their efforts on the footy field on Sunday, with the reserves and thirds completing a full sweep for Wangaratta Rovers.
The thirds contest started
the derby festivities off in style, with Rovers coming away the victors 10.8 (68) to the Magpies 4.8 (32).
A close contest throughout, the Magpies held an eight-point advantage coming into half-time, but the
second half would be all Rovers.
The Magpies would only manage a single goal in the second half as the Rovers dominated play, piling on eight goals from half-time to run out winners by 36 points.
Reid McNamara starred up forward for the Rovers, finishing with three goals, while Will Prebble and Hamish Laverty fought hard for the ‘Pies.
The reserves match followed a similar script, with
Rovers kicking away after a contested opening term to win 15.8 (98) to 4.4 (28).
The Rovers would kick goal after goal through the second term to open up a 6.5 to 2.2 buffer at the major break.
Wangaratta would struggle to impact the scoreboard in the second half, while the Rovers were in full control. Connor Crimmins would boot five goals for the Rovers, assisted by Oscar Clelland, Sam Rourke and Trey Vincent (three each).
GOALS: LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll 3, T. Oosterhoff 3, A. Swinnerton 1, J. O’Brien 1, C. Sanson
1, E. Perryman 1, D. Smith 1. ALBURY: R. Garthwaite 2, H. Cameron 2, K. Heiner-Hennessy 1, M. Walker 1, E. Ziebarth 1, W. Blomeley 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: A. Bennett, C. Annett, J. Hart, S. Driscoll, T. Oosterhoff, D. Beavan. ALBURY: B. Kelly, W. Unthank, J. Gaynor, E. Ziebarth, J. Hillary, H. Cameron.
A GRADE: Lavington 32 def Albury 30
Wangaratta 60 def Wangaratta Rovers 37
B GRADE: Lavington 42 def Albury 41
Wangaratta 51 def Wangaratta Rovers 44
C GRADE: Lavington 76 def Albury 26
Wangaratta 38 def by Wangaratta Rovers 44
17 & UNDER: Lavington 327def Albury 27
Wangaratta 47 def by Wangaratta Rovers 54
15 & UNDER: Lavington 42 def Albury 21
Wangaratta 48 def Wangaratta Rovers 31
Lavington 9.9 (63) def Albury 7.4 (46)
GOALS: LAVINGTON R. Costello 2, C. Hall 2, I. Robertson 2, C. Way 1, A. Toohey 1, T. Goonan 1. ALBURY R.
ALBURY: J. Quade, R. O’Sullivan, D. Dunstan, L. Wheatley, S. O’Connell, J. Whiting. Wangaratta4.8(32)defbyWangRovers10.8(68)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: K. Hadley, J. Blake, H. Laverty, R. Schultz. WANG ROVERS: R. McNamara 3, J. Correll 2, J. Comensoli 2, C Breheny, K. Wohlers, M.
Saunders, C. Boman, T. Ford, J. Allan.
GOALS: WANGARATTA: X. Laverty 2, N. Richards 2, A. Tilley 2, A. Federico, D.
C. Thompson 3, W. Christie 2, A.
2, T.
N.
J.
E
B. Filo.
WANGARATTA: B. Melville, N. Richards, P. Wright, M. Bordignon, A. Tilley, M. Grossman. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Thompson, K. Parnell, J. Rigoni, X. Allison, N. Cooper, B. Filo.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Whorouly senior foot-
ballers took a tremendous stride towards a finals run after downing the visiting Goorambat by 32 points at the Den on Saturday.
The 12.10 (82) to 7.8 (50) triumph helped erase their loss to the Bats earlier in the season after controlling much of the game.
The Lions’ forward line was boosted by the return of Josh Newton and Andy Newton, who helped Whorouly open a 21-point lead at quarter time, kicking five goals to one early.
The physicality at the source stepped up another level after quarter time, and both sides traded blows, with Whorouly four goals up at the main break.
Goorambat came out hard, eager to bridge the gap, but the Lions’ defensive unit held up well and were able to counterpunch with great impact.
Whorouly coach Michael Newton said it was satisfying for his team to stand up and perform in an important match.
Wangaratta Rovers rebound from slow opening term to blast
It was the day to be a Hawks fan as the ladder-leaders continued their O&M premiership defence in a thrilling derby showdown against fierce rivals Wangaratta Magpies on Sunday.
A crowd of about 2000 people flocked to the Norm Minns Oval in anticipation of a corking game of senior football, and they weren’t disappointed.
After four quarters of top-quality football, the Rovers were on top, taking the win 13.11 (89) to 8.7 (55).
The match started with an explosive goal within the first minute, courtesy of a surging
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
Rovers midfield and the sure boot
The Magpies slotted the next three through some solid ball movement and build-up, but a holding the ball call to Sam Murray would gift the Rovers their second, a seven-point game at quarter time. Rovers surged back in the second, with a flurry of goals bringing the Rovers ahead with three goals in as many minutes, as their midfield
group started to get on top.
While they had their chances in front of goal, the Magpies were just off enough for the Rovers to adequately defend, with the brown and gold heading into the rooms with a 14-point advantage at half time.
With heavy impacts and courageous acts from both teams, the crowd was enraptured by the footy on display, and Rovers were able to widen the gap to 19 points at the final break.
In the end, Rovers were simply too clean and clinical with the ball, running out winners by 34 points.
Rovers’ Charlie Thompson was named best on ground for his side for his three goals and impactful possessions, and said the pressure and intensity around the ball was elite all day.
“That was a tough one, derbies are always tight – one vs three always adds a little bit – so it was hot around the ball, I’m cooked,” he said after the game.
“I’ve played a lot of footy against [Wangaratta midfielder] Alex Federico over the years and it’s always a good battle, and he certainly had my measure at quarter time.
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“We’ve built this game up as a season-defining game –if we had dropped that one, it would’ve put a lot of pressure on the next four games, but to be able to walk away with the four points from a good performance was very pleasing,” he said.
“I thought the midfield battle was pretty even throughout.
“When we were able to use our run and carry off half back and get it out to the open spaces, we were able to use the footy a little bit better through the middle parts of the ground.
“Maxxy Scott was huge for us, and we were able to generate a little run and carry from the turnovers which was pleasing.
■ Continued page 13