Emma (left), Nick and Zoey Sgarioto were one of many families happy in the festive spirit on Saturday afternoon at the Wangaratta Show. Around 4000 people went through the gates at the Wangaratta Showgrounds across the weekend.
A pair of perfect spring days greeted around 4000 Wangaratta Show goers over the weekend at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
The 159th staging of the show once again had something for everyone with the perfect blend of local creativity, thrill-seeking rides and good-old fashioned country spirit on full display.
Beyond the loud sounds of the carnival and its rides, show secretary Charmane
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
Bennett said the show saw a noticeable increase in art exhibition entries this year on the back of a $500 sponsorship from BankWAW.
“We had almost 200 entries over the open, novice and school students, we had to find extra places to hang things,” she said.
Outside of the arts, Ms
Bennett said the committee also saw an increase in numbers on their craft competition while cooking entries were about par.
Poultry and cattle numbers were up on last year while competition entries for knitting, photography and horticulture were slightly down on last year.
Ms Bennett said while Friday afternoon attendance numbers were slightly down on average, due to a concurrent event running
at the King George V Gardens, the Rural City of Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Festival, overall attendance numbers were about the same as last year.
On the main stage the horse competition, the popular dog high jump and aerial motorbike stunts by the team from SINCS FMX wowed the crowds on Friday evening prior to the traditional WINSEC fireworks display, which filled up the night sky.
On Saturday it was the farmers’ challenge and various livestock and machinery displays which stole the show.
Ms Bennett said Dinkum Dinosaurs with their dinosaur puppet show, baby dinosaur zoo and dance party was a major hit with the kids throughout the two days.
“They did a very good job for us,” she said.
Ms Bennett sincerely thanked the show’s volun-
teers and sponsors for once again turning up and making the community event tick.
“That show doesn’t run on love alone, our committee, ladies’ committee and volunteer crew pride ourselves on how well we work as a team,” she said.
“Money is very important to these events and without all of our beautiful, generous sponsors we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”
■ Photos page 2
PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Local firefighters were quick to respond to a fire inside a Wangaratta laundromat late on Friday night.
A FRV spokesperson said emergency services responded to the incident on Burke Street about 10:37pm following a Triple Zero call reporting a structure fire.
Firefighters arrived on scene to find a fire in a laundromat, isolated to one dryer, and worked quickly to extinguish it.
“Crews assessed the property for fire extension into the roof space and neighbouring premises,” the spokesperson said. The incident was deemed under control at 11pm.
Around 4000 bask in festivities of 159th Wangaratta Show
Wangaratta Chronicle journalists captured the essence of the country spirit at the Wangaratta Show on Friday and Saturday at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
ART ADMIRERS: Ava, Jamie and Liam Stafford in the
NETS OUT: Ella and Michelle Gavin with daughter Thea Gavin. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg TO: Bailey Zimmermann
BUSY DAY: The rides at the Wangaratta Showgrounds were well populated on Saturday afternoon. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
DINO DELIGHT: James Sleight (left) and Charmane Bennett with the Dinkum Dinosaurs puppets which proved a hit with the kids over the weekend. PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
HAVE A SPIN: Harvey Bennett (right) was smiling with excitement as he was ready to ride the teacups with aunty Sarz. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
CATTLE CHAMPS: Siblings Chloe and Wilson Cook with their reserve champion dairy heifer. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
Police probe Porepunkah properties, still no confirmed sightings of suspected gunman
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Dozens more police were called to assist in property searches in Porepunkah late last week as the hunt for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman goes into its eighth week.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said specialist police services searched “a number” of private properties in Porepunkah on Thursday and Friday.
An additional 33 officers were brought in from the
Public Order Response Team on Friday who conducted an additional sweep of the area.
There has still been no confirmed sighting of Freeman since he was last seen fleeing his Rayner Track property heavily armed after allegedly killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de WaartHottart and injuring a third officer as they were conducting a search warrant on 26 August.
Police have searched
around 40 square kilometres of bushland and received thousands of pieces of information provided by the public since the search involving multiple state, federal and international agencies began.
Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed as police continue to maintain a significant presence in the area.
“We are committed to using every available resource and the necessary skills required to find Freeman,” the
Victoria Police spokesperson said.
Police remain open to an array of possibilities, from Freeman being deceased, hiding in the difficult terrain alone, having fled the area or receiving assistance from people in the community.
Investigators have described Freeman as wellversed in bushcraft.
Anyone who sees Freeman is urged to phone Triple Zero (000) immediately and not to approach him.
Any suspicious behaviour
or other information about Freeman’s current whereabouts should be reported to Crime Stoppers Victoria via 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
A reward of up to $1 million remains in place for information leading to Freeman’s arrest.
For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www. police.vic.gov.au/porepunkah-shooting-and-searchdesmond-freeman-filby
In the pink for your support
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Northeast Health Wangaratta is keen to get people thinking about early detection and support services.
NHW’s breast cancer service will again have the backing of local business Donna Bella Lingerie during the month.
Each October, the business proudly decorates its Murphy Street shop in pink, and donates $1 from every bra sold directly to the NHW Breast Cancer Service.
This year, owner Lisa Startin and her team have added a pink tree displayed on their wall; every customer who donates can place a ribbon on the tree, helping to create a powerful symbol of community support.
Last year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month fundraising helped purchase vouchers for local breast cancer clients, allowing them to buy a post-operative bra from Donna Bella.
Lisa and her team have been longtime supporters of the service, providing not only fundraising support but also offering a specialist range of post-operative bras, prosthesis fitting and prosthesis purchasing for clients following a mastectomy.
Last year, the business raised $600 through the October promotion.
“Donna Bella’s ongoing support makes a real difference for local people going through breast cancer treatment,” NHW chief executive officer Libby Fifis said.
SUV collides with truck on freeway, firies fight Tarra’ scrub fire
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
It was a busy Friday afternoon for local emergency services as authorities responded to two incidents within the rural city occurring within 30 minutes of each other.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said Wangaratta Highway Patrol officers were appealing for public assistance as they investigated a collision between a SUV and a truck at Springhurst.
The spokesperson said it was understood a grey Kia Sportage collided with a flatbed truck on the Hume Freeway, just south of the Benton’s Hill Southbound Rest Area about 2:45pm.
“The car got stuck on the rear of the truck and was dragged for about 150m before the vehicles came to a stop,” they said.
An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said paramedics assessed two people at the scene and a woman in her 20s was treated for an upper body injury and a medical condition.
The female passenger and the driver of the SUV were hospitalised to Northeast Health Wangaratta in a stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the truck was not injured.
Wangaratta FRV also responded to the incident due to reported coolant and oil leaking.
The Victoria Police spokesperson said investigators were eager to hear from any witnesses who observed the vehicles driving prior to the collision.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or any information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The World Health Organisation has set the theme for this year’s awareness month as ‘Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters’.
This theme offers a reminder that every breast cancer diagnosis is a person, and behind every diagnosis is a story, representing a diverse
“We are so grateful for their generosity and commitment to our community.”
range of experiences and reinforcing the need for compassionate, timely and quality care.
The NHW Breast Cancer Service is free, and community members can contact the team any time for information, support and resources.
Particularly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, NHW encourages locals to be breast aware by:
* checking their breasts monthly;
* booking a mammogram every two years if age-eligible; and
* reporting any changes, no matter how small, to their doctor straight away.
For more information about breast cancer awareness, visit the websites of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) or BreastScreen Victoria.
Meanwhile a CFA spokesperson said five CFA units responded to a grass and scrub fire in Tarrawingee about 2:15pm the same day.
The fire broke out at the corner of Cemetery Road and Rusholme Road, spreading to nearby trees.
Units from Everton, Eldorado, Tarrawingee and Wangaratta North contained the blaze spanning 200 x 30m within two hours.
AWARENESS MONTH: Northeast Health Wangaratta breast care nurses Erin Primmer and Sam Cooper with Donna Bella Lingerie owner Lisa Startin and staff member Abbie Poidomani; each October, Donna Bella donates $1 from every bra sold directly to the NHW Breast Cancer Service.
PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Bike hub is ready for its full public reveal
7.15am to 8.45am, before making their way to the bike hub for the official opening at 9am.
Monday, 12 October, 2015
Merriwa Park Bike Hub will be officially opened on Wednesday.
The toilets in the former comfort station, on the corner of Ryley and Ford Streets, were opened to the public last week, and Wednesday’s opening of the entire facility has been timed to coincide with Ride2Work Day.
Cyclists will have the opportunity to enjoy a community breakfast in Ovens Riverside Square in Faithfull Street from
Inside, the bike hub features bike lockers, showers and redeveloped toilets, including all access facilities.
Outside is a deck and concrete platform with views over the picturesque park, as well as seats and bike racks.
Council’s chair of administrators, Ailsa Fox, said the transformed landmark would help advertise the cycling opportunities on offer in the region.
WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
October to date has continued to be very dry with only 2.2 mms rainfall making 45.3 mms since the start of August in Wangaratta.
The showers which were forecast for Wednesday afternoon and evening did not arrive and it appears that there will be very little or no rain up to mid October at major towns in North East Victoria.
The total rainfall at Wangaratta since the start of August and this the fourth driest behind 1982, 1944 and 1914.
Last Saturday, 4 October, Kalgoorlie recorded a deluge of 60 mms .
This was Kalgoorlie’s wettest October day since 62.5 mms in 1909.
The recent heavy rain at Kalgoorlie did not reach not reach Wangaratta and at nearby major towns; but moderate isolated rainfalls were reported in northern NSW (as the cloud band kept it’s strength).
Past cases of heavy October rainfall in Kalgoorlie were on 1899, 1909, 1975 and 1982.
Three of those 1899, 1909 and 1982 certainly led to very dry and much warmer than normal from September right through to February in Victoria.
The event in 1975 saw very wet conditions from July to January 1976 .
Further heavy rain has been recorded at Wilsons Promontory during the first week of October with 89 mms.
This followed 494 mms during July to September which was the wettest July to September period since 646 mms in 2013.
It is interesting to note that the January to June period at the Prom was drier than average and this dry period also happened this year at the Prom from January to June.
The first week of October have seen near record heat of up to 43 degrees in the Kimberley region and down to Eucla area.
Nullabore near Ceduna recorded 41.3 degrees last Saturday, 4 October, the hottest for early October on record.
Discover what’s on offer at Caring and Ageing Well Festival
By GRACE FREDSBERG
Seniors Festival is well underway in Wangaratta, with a vibrant array of community programs, live entertainment, and other events on offer throughout October.
Among them is the city’s Caring and Ageing Well Festival, a free, community event held in partnership with the Rural City of Wangaratta and Open Door Neighbourhood House at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre (WPACC) on 15 October from 10am-1pm.
Coinciding with Victoria’s annual Seniors Festival as well as National Carers Week, seniors and carers are invited to come and learn about the wide variety of services, community groups and initiatives available to them in the North East.
Rural City of Wangaratta’s aged and community care services officer Joanne Davey said the festival is a fantastic opportunity for locals to be exposed to what supports are available to them.
“It gives them a chance to come along, meet service providers face-to-face, ask questions, and find out what’s available locally,” she said.
“It’s also a great way to recognise the important role car-
ers play in our community.
“We want people to leave feeling informed, appreciated, and part of something bigger.”
The festival will host a diverse group of stallholders and exhibitors; ranging from healthcare services to fitness providers to local social clubs, and will also promote local grassroots organisations.
“Local groups like Wangaratta Woodworkers, U3A, and Upper Murray Family Care and many others are fantastic community connections,” Ms Davey said.
“By promoting themselves at events like this, we help residents discover what’s available locally, build a stronger sense of community, and highlight the valuable work these groups do every day.”
Some of the stallholders and exhibitors that will be featured include:
• My Aged Care.
Open Door Neighbourhood House.
• Gateway Health.
• Country Care Independent Living Solutions.
• The Centre for Continuing Education Inc. Four local Home Care Package providers.
• Care Finder.
• Aged care homes.
• Elder Rights Advocacy.
• Cycling Without Age.
• Upper Murray Family Care.
Local fitness studios.
• Vision Australia.
Greta Valley student project receives award
By ANITA MCPHERSON
An annual project which involves students delving into local history and discovering more about those who served their country and are now interred at the Greta Cemetery, has won commendation from the Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
Each year Greta Valley Primary School students research a veteran buried at the cemetery, putting together a biography, then in conjunction with the Greta Cemetery Trust, presenting it to the community as part of their ANZAC Day celebrations.
This year principal Howard Gibson nominated the project for the DVA’s 2025 Anzac Day Schools’ Awards, and the school was recently advised they had won the Innovative Idea Award.
The theme of this year’s awards was “Remembering Gallipoli: 110 years” and the judging panellists said they were moved by the touching tributes placed by individual students at the grave sites.
A red poppy, a flag and a written biography had been carefully arranged and placed on the veterans’ graves, and on Anzac Day, students led members of the community
POSITIVE EXPERIENCE: Greta Valley Primary School students, with principal Howard Gibson and special guests, commemorate Anzac Day each year in a way which has long term benefits for all.
on a commemorative walk through the cemetery.
The judging panellists said the students “have honoured the lives of these veterans through recognition, respect and community connection” and “due to their actions, these veteran stories live on through the students at Greta Valley Primary School.”
The school received a $2000 prize and a commemorative plaque; principal Gibson saying the prize will go towards the project, or another history-themed initiative, as they prepare for Anzac Day next year.
Mr Gibson said each year the students research a different person, so it is always a learning experience, and the project has far reaching benefits for the young participants.
“It gives them a deeper understanding of those who have given service (and even their lives) to their country, while connecting them with their local community,” he said.
“It also helps develop their research and writing skills, as they put together a biography and create a presentation, and builds their confidence from getting up and talking in front of a crowd.”
Aside from promoting local organisations, Ms Davey said their ongoing partnership with Open Door Neighbourhood was an asset to the event, being a prominent community centre in the region.
“We’ve partnered with
Open Door Neighbourhood House for the past few years as they’re such a trusted part of our community,” she said.
“They work closely with people from all walks of life and really understand the needs of older residents and carers.
“It just made sense to team up this way, we can make the
festival more inclusive, more welcoming, and more connected to the people it’s meant to support.”
If this event may be of interest to you, more information is available through the Aged and Community Care Services team at contactacc@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or on 1300 982 662.
PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
Office of the Public Advocate.
U3A Wangaratta. Wangaratta Woodworkers.
Enduring heartbeat of regional life
When the gates open on a local agricultural show, it is far more than just carnival rides and food stalls; it is a vital sign for regional health.
The Wangaratta Show proved once again why it has a rich place in the community’s heart with two entertaining days for all over the weekend.
These events remain the essential intersection of tradition, commerce, and powerful community spirit.
Most importantly it creates a space where we can bump into each other and enjoy the company of others.
Beyond the commercial lift, the show fulfils its primary agricultural mission and celebrates local produce, skills, and livestock, while also providing an economic benefit through local business support and event spending.
These shows are a crucial platform for local farmers to showcase livestock, and the essential role primary production plays in our national prosperity.
It is where knowledge is exchanged, and the next generation of producers is inspired.
Entirely powered by hundreds of dedicated, unpaid volunteers, the show fosters teamwork and a deep sense of ownership.
From the thrill of the carnival to the pride in a prize-winning entry, the Wangaratta Show reinforces our collective sense of place and identity.
These shows are truly irreplaceable, serving as a powerful reminder that the health of our community is inextricably linked to the land and the spirit of celebration.
Supporting the show is a fundamental investment in the social, cultural, and economic future of the district.
The Quiz No.156
1. Before gaining independence in 1980, Vanuatu was known by what name?
2. Which Rolling Stones song was the first to reach No. 1 in the US?
3. Fortius Quo Fidelius is the motto of which AFL club?
4. The Italian number, cinque, translates to which English number?
5. What colour are the stars on the flag of the Solomon Islands?
6. Which cartoon character has the sidekick, Baba Looey?
7. Toponymy is the scientific study of what?
8. In March 2017, who replaced Tony Simpson as the member for Darling Range?
9. What was the first feature film directed by Steven Spielberg?
10. In amateur boxing, which weight class are you in if you weigh more than 91kgs?
11. Which author is best known for his Inspector Morse novels?
12. Who won the 2017 TV series, The Bachelorette Australia?
13. Dzongkha is the official language of which country starting with B?
14. Which sport is a hybrid of swimming, dance and gymnastics?
15. On August 2, 1876, Jack McCall killed which person?
16. In which century was the Mona Lisa painted?
17. Which member of Fleetwood Mac released the 2017 book, Love That Burns?
18. What is the sixth planet from the Sun?
19. In which month is the annual Tour Down Under cycling race held?
20. Which company makes Hot Wheels cars?
Facebook users this week commented on the loss of a culturally significant tree after it was burnt down in what police suspect to be a deliberate act.
Jan Osmotherly:
Heartbreaking irreplaceable loss. And even more heartbreaking to think someone in our community is targeting these incredible culturally significant trees - as said earlier - not just
trees…. What does it say of our respect for the oldest continuing culture on the planet? Devastating.
Linda Simpson: Pathetic individuals responsible for this attack & the destruction of other culturally significant trees in Wangaratta!
Melissa Hebbard:
Regardless of any cultural significance, these ancient trees are magnificent, are home to many critters and
Artificial Intelligence a true oxymoron
Artificial Intelligence is anything but that at this time, and probably well into the future.
It seems that it can answer questions, fed into it, and parrots it quite well when asked a question about something.
Unfortunately, it still depends on human programming, which like the Centrelink debt program can get situations awfully wrong.
The future of court decisions and other things should never be based on inhuman decisions made by a power hungry calculator.
The education of these machines must remain limited.
They are after all inhuman.
John Vance, Wangaratta
Destruction of our environment goes on
It saddened me deeply to read in Friday’s Chronicle that a 700-year-old great tree was burnt and killed in the Northern Beaches.
What might we say of such senseless violence and destruction?
But what might we say when an 800-year-old tree and 260 other ancient trees are killed for a Western Highway road improvement?
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
are our living heritage. All people in Wangaratta value them and are saddened by their loss. This is not just an attack on the Indigenous people but an attack on all in Wangaratta. That it is a birthing tree makes its loss even worse and I send my condolences to the Bpangerang people.
Mindy Craig: Omg...how horrific!
Leslie Matthews: That makes it four old trees
deliberately vandalised in the last couple of years in this area. Someone has a problem...
Sally Day: I’m saddened to think that someone in our local community has deliberately targeted these trees. They are irreplaceable
Cr Allison WintersRural City of Wangaratta: An absolutely devastating loss for our community Davina Bermingham: So sad
Have your say Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.
Wangaratta Chronicle 15.7K followers
And what might we say when in Tasmania there is a concerted push to once again open up the pristine Tarkine Wilderness Area for logging and mining?
Thousands of trees would be cut down including many 700-year-old and ancient trees.
There is obviously such a deep disconnection to the world of nature by many of us.
And so the destruction of our earth home goes on.
But one day, we human beings will not only realise, but will feel in our hearts, our deep and real connection to the trees, the animals and all the natural world.
And so the destruction will end.
David Rainbow, Myrtleford
Loss of irreplaceable tree devastating
The destruction of the birthing tree at Northern Beaches is not only devastating for the local Indigenous people, but for
Age
a not-for-
people of any age
or
For more information, phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com.
the community at large.
The Aboriginal elders in Wangaratta have openly invited us all to walk together, yet it seems that there are individuals who have no intention of accepting the hand of friendship, but wish to harm them and their great cultural heritage which is the heritage of all of us.
Without any background to the event, I wonder whether the fire authorities have overreacted to the fire, and some effort could have been made to keep the tree intact without it becoming a danger to the public.
Can you image what might have been the outrage in Paris if Notre Dame Cathedral, which caught fire some years ago, was allowed to be destroyed rather than the fire be contained?
The significant redgum trees of Wangaratta are of similar age to the medieval cathedrals of Europe and are irreplaceable.
outcome.
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.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
GREAT DAY OUT: Mother and son Elda (right) and Dean Forza from Coburg visit the North East every few months, and one of their favourite activities when in Wangaratta is riding in a Cycling Without Age trishaw. Cycling Without
Wangaratta is
profit organisation that offers these free rides to the elderly, and to
with disabilities
reduced mobility.
This is not the first occasion that a tree of great cultural heritage has been deliberately destroyed in Wangaratta. Every effort has to be made to prevent another event with such tragic
Adrian Twitt, Wangaratta
Robots lend a hand in solar farm panel installation
Robots have helped to complete solar panel installation ahead of schedule at the Goorambat East Solar Farm near Benalla.
US robotics company Luminous was selected to receive $4.9 million in funding as the first recipient of ARENA’s $100 million Solar ScaleUp Challenge, which sought to supercharge innovation and crowdsource ideas from around the world on how to reduce the cost of largescale solar.
Luminous’ project aimed to introduce and demonstrate their LUMI robot, an AI-powered pick and place technology designed to streamline utility scale solar construction.
The LUMI robots autonomously place solar modules onto racking structures, allowing onsite workers to complete the final securing process, reducing manual labour and improving installation speed, safety and cost-efficiency.
ENGIE’s site representative, Justin Webb, said he was really pleased by the innovation and forward thinking shown by contractors Bouygues Construction Australia and Equans Solar & Storage Australia during the construction of the Goorambat East Solar Farm.
“This has included testing three robotic systems to install pilings and more recently solar panels, with American company Luminous
‘ROB’ THE BUILDER: Luminous’ LUMI solar panel installing robot during testing on ENGIE’s Goorambat East Solar Farm.
testing their LUMI system outside of the US for the first time and demonstrating the future of solar farm construction,” Mr Webb said.
“The intended higher productivity of these autonomous systems will reduce the cost of renewable energy projects and enable projects
to be built in less time - which will bring down energy costs for consumers and potentially allow more solar farms to be built.
“These robots also required skilled technicians to operate them, thus upskilling the current renewable energy workforce and enabling more productivity.
“The use of autonomous robots could also have large benefits for the construction of solar farms in remote and inhospitable areas, such as is deserts, where the climate could be dangerous for human staff.
“In the longer term, with continued development, robots like these will also enable a reduction in
health and safety related risks from construction projects, for example reducing the manual handling of heavy solar panels.”
Mr Webb said construction of the solar farm was ahead of schedule with installation of all solar panels completed last week.
He said commissioning has commenced, and first energisation of the Goorambat East Solar Farm expected by end of October, with full energisation well on target for mid-2026.
“It will have a generating capacity of up to 250 megawatts (MW), which is enough to power up to 105,000 average Victorian homes,” Mr Webb said.
Veteran firefighter honoured
Rural city adopts updated Waste Management Policy
By JORDAN DUURSMA
Rural city of Wangaratta councillors endorsed the adoption of the Waste Management Policy 2025 at September’s council meeting.
At the July council meeting council endorsed the draft Waste Management Policy 2025 for community engagement.
Council invited community submissions on the draft Waste Management Policy 2025 for 28 days from 25 July 2025 to 22 August 2025 via the Connect Wangaratta webpage.
RECYCLE: Council currently maintains the use of yellow-top recycling bins in public areas, with no changes planned to this service.
Ovens-based forest firefighter, Tracy Culhane was presented with the prestigious Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal last month at a ceremony in Wodonga.
Tracy was deployed as a Safety Officer to the British Columbia Wildfires that burned more than 1.2 million hectares in 2017, along with several Forest Fire Management Victoria staff from north east Victoria.
The Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal is part of the Australian
Honours System and is awarded for declared events, to eligible individuals who perform humanitarian service overseas in dangerous or hazardous environments.
Tracy also received the National Emergency Medal for his work to help protect threatened communities during the devastating 2019–2020 Black Summer bushfires.
Joining the newly formed Ovens rappel crew in 1993, Tracy overcame a fear of heights to become crew leader within a year. He
completed over 1000 rappels before his final rappel in 2003. During his career Tracy was deployed to major fires in 1997 (Caledonia), 2003 (Alpine Fires), 200607 (Great Divide Fires), 2009 (Black Saturday), 2013 (Harrietville Fires) and the most recent 2019-20 (Black Summer) bushfires. He was also sent on two interstate deployments to New South Wales in 1994 and 2001, and three international deployments to Canada in 2009, 2014 and 2017.
Of the 12 visitors to the project page, three surveys were completed with the following feedback: “Is the plan to continue with the use of ‘yellow top’ bins in public areas?”, “Great to have a more circular economy”, and “There should be an annual kerbside hard waste collection, which many other councils”.
Council currently maintains the use of yellow-top recycling bins in public areas, with no changes planned to this service.
In response to community feedback requesting an annual kerbside hard waste collection, council acknowledges the interest but notes that such a service is currently beyond the financial scope of the existing waste program.
Director of community and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said based on the current Work Safe laws, kerbside hard waste collection is a very difficult thing to introduce.
“It’s obviously, once the community is satisfied with that service, a very difficult thing to take out,” he said.
“We do still have vouchers that can be redeemed at the tip, that does mean that you’ve got to bring your tip or transfer stations.
“We’re certainly not looking in future to implement a kerbside hard rubbish collection.”
Council provides an alternative through its voucher system, which allows residents to responsibly dispose
of bulky waste at designated facilities.
An update of the Waste Management Policy 2025 has been undertaken to strengthen the existing policy with the implementation of the kerbside glass collection service ensuring that it remains accurate and applicable to service delivery.
Cr Allison Winters moved the motion, and it was seconded by Cr Dave Fuller.
Mayor Irene Grant said waste is always something that council has to be agile with.
“Things change all the time and um and as a council we must be agile to what is best practice and perhaps, more importantly, what we can afford,” she said.
Your yellow bin is now for paper, cardboard, metal and hard plastics only. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge.
Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin
RECOGNITION: FFMVic Chief fire officer Chris Hardman, Tracy Culhane and FFMVic Hume deputy chief fire officer, Aaron Kennedy.
The writers who took High Country by storm
By MIKE SMITH
2025 was always going to be a big year for High Country Words.
This year, Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival merged its competition with the local Bushy Tales contest to create High Country Words.
Entries were strong, the competition fierce, and the winners have now been announced.
Five writers have been awarded across five categories. Their works, along with those longlisted, will be published in the 2025 High Country Words Anthology, on sale at the festival in October and at Ink Bookstore.
The Courier spoke to this year’s winners about their interpretations of the theme Scrub.
Open Short Story Prize:
Dr Cassy Nunan
Dr Cassy Nunan won the Open Short Story Prize for The Carnivorous River, a Bush Gothic tale about a man’s attempts to wrangle a cod from the Murray River.
“The theme Scrub is very close to my heart,” Dr Nunan said.
“Much of my childhood was spent playing in the mystical bush near the farm my six siblings and I were raised on just south of Cobram.”
Her father, Des, was the inspiration.
“He was a deeply ethical man who respected the river.
“He valued our dependency on nature and its habitats.
Five writers were awarded prizes across five separate categories in
Rabbit, judged by poet Maria Takolander.
“It’s a gendered exploration of the labour of killing, and what it means, in terms of masculine constructions, for someone so young to suddenly come to terms with the sheer mechanics of another’s body,” Loveday said.
“The central images are taken from one summer weekend where my family visited my uncle’s farm on the far outskirts of Goulburn, NSW.”
Loveday is an award-winning poet, writer, and PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne, researching satirical representations of the manosphere.
Local Bush Poetry Prize: Maree Mielnik
Mansfield Shire’s Maree Mielnik won the RB Sellars Local Bush Poetry Prize for Young Guns.
“It’s very satisfying to achieve a strong level of engagement with people through poetry,” she said.
This Life Takes Passengers was published by the Melbourne Poets Union, and her story To The Lighthouse won the Furphy Prize. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing from La Trobe University and has completed an unpublished novel, Surface Tension.
Local Short Story Prize: Shaun McMahon
Mansfield Courier editor Shaun McMahon won the
“As a family, we cherished camping, swimming in, and fishing by the river.” Nunan’s poetry chapbook
Local Short Story Prize with Leave, an unsettling tale of a man digging for gold near Gaffney’s Creek.
“I’m punching quality-wise alongside some amazingly talented writers in the Open Prize, and that’s particularly gratifying,” he said.
“Crime, thriller, and horror have always been my goto, both in what I read and what I write.
“Leave is an atmospheric piece, part outback mystery, part slow-burn unease.
“It’s about a remote encounter that forces its char-
NATURE’S SPRING SYMPHONY DESERVES
acters into a moral crossroads.
“The idea came from two local moments: a yarn with Mansfield physio Chris Jacobs, who told me about a mate stumbling across some gold, and a drive out to Woods Point with Mayor Steve Rabie, who shared some history of Gaffney’s Creek along the way.”
McMahon’s first published work of fiction follows four years at the local paper and writing and hosting the podcasts True Blue Crime and Suburban Legends - all the while chipping away at a novel.
Judge’s view: Margaret Hickey
Author Margaret Hickey (Cutters End, Stone Town, Broken Bay) judged the short story section.
“It was such an honour to be asked to judge the competition,” she said.
“I immediately said yes, not only because I love Mansfield and the High Country, but because of the experience I’ve had at the festival before.
“As a writer, rural towns are my thing, so I was thrilled to judge a competition run from a rural town.”
Hickey said the entries reflected the festival’s standing.
“I’m the judge for a number of awards which are larger in scope, however I found the quality to be just as good.
“I particularly liked the theme of Scrub – it was a clever theme as it can be interpreted in so many different ways – and it was!
“The Carnivorous River was clever, hilarious and brilliantly rendered: the descriptions of place and people,
and the growing reveal of what was actually happening was completely original – I loved it.
“Leave was wonderful.
“There was a definite gothic feel to it, the menace in the landscape, the attraction and repulsion of objects, the feeling that you are being watched – it’s a lesson in how to build tension.”
Bush Poetry Prize: David Judge
David Judge won the Bush Poetry Prize for Soul Search, after previously being shortlisted twice and longlisted five times.
“To have my poems included in the Scrub anthology is an honour,” he said.
“I have been writing traditional Australian rhyming verse for the past 10 years.
“With gradual improvement and an increased understanding of the genre, I started entering the many coveted Australian written poetry awards which provide important opportunities for poets to publicly present their endeavours.
“2025 has been a memorable year for me, having won the Man from Snowy River Festival’s Silver Brumby Award, the Banjo Paterson Writing Award for Contemporary Poetry and of course this most recent award from Mansfield.”
Judge recently published A Sense of Place – A Septuagenarian’s Recollections in Rhyme, which will be available during the October festival.
Poetry Prize:
Tim Loveday
Tim Loveday won the Poetry Prize for How to Skin a
“Young Guns is set in central Victoria near where I grew up.
“Think of flat, stony country with old mine shafts and scraggly vegetation.
“Tough country – scrub.
“So a remote setting towards the close of day, two people and a looming exchange inspired by family history.
“All will be revealed upon the release of the 2025 High Country Words Anthology…” Festival president’s reflections
Dr Dani Netherclift, President of Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival, praised the poetry entries.
“How to Skin a Rabbit, with its deft near rhymes and alliteration, is a poetic meditation on the thin skin between life and death,” she said.
“Its descriptions of the subtle language of movement and action enacted differently by men and women in the spheres of home and the land make it a delicately rendered triumph of observation and consideration.
“David Judge’s Soul Search is an evocation of lost days, changing places and times, with an eye cast toward what was good and whole in the past as well as the things a youthful eye was blind to that an older eye sees all too clearly.
“The poem has a beautiful rhythm and metre, resulting in the musicality of language that is so pleasing in the traditional bush poetry form.
“We also loved Maree Mielnik’s Young Guns with its dramatic scenes and colourful imagery, and we wanted its local writer to be recognised with a special commendation prize.”
SHAUN MCMAHON: Winner of the High Country Words Local Short Story Prize.
TIM LOVEDAY: Winner of the High Country Words Poetry Prize.
DAVID JUDGE: Winner of the High Country Words Bush Poetry Prize.
MAREE MIELNIK: Winner of the RB Sellars Local Bush Poetry Prize.
DR CASSY NUNAN: Winner of the High Country Words Open Short Story Prize.
Metro Tunnel to open in December
By SHANE DOUTHIE
The long awaited Metro Tunnel will open in early December with hundreds of new services a week.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams announced the Summer Start program for the tunnel’s opening in December, followed by the Big Switch network-wide timetable integration on 1 February.
According to the government, the opening is one year earlier than forecast compared to the original completion date in 2026 set out in the business case.
And from the day the Metro Tunnel opens in early December for its Summer Start, public transport in Victoria will be free for everyone, everywhere, every weekend until 1 February.
That means every tram, every bus, every Melbourne train, every regional train, for every passenger – from the first service on each Saturday to the last service on each Sunday.
During the Summer Start period, Metro Tunnel services will run seven days a week and stop at all five new underground stations: Arden,
Parkville, State Library, Town Hall and Anzac.
Monday to Friday – services every 20 minutes from 10am until 3pm between Westall (Cranbourne and Pakenham lines) and West Footscray (Sunbury line)
Weekends – services every 20 minutes from 10am until 7pm between Westall and West Footscray, every 40 minutes from East Pakenham, and every 60 minutes from Sunbury.
Street or Melbourne Central without tapping on or off.
It means there are more than 240 extra services a week during the Summer Start for passengers along the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury corridor – all running through the Metro Tunnel – in addition to existing services.
Existing services on those lines will continue as normal through the City Loop during the Summer Start, and passengers can connect to the Metro Tunnel at interchange locations, including Footscray and Caulfield stations.
The timetable will also stay the same on every other line during the Summer Start.
Passengers on these lines can change to a Metro Tunnel service at
According to the government, the reduced Summer Start schedule is key to the Metro Tunnel opening safer, smoother and sooner.
It also means the tunnel won’t sit idle during the lead-in time for the new timetable, and will be able to open immediately upon safety approval.
The Metro Tunnel should mean faster travel across the city through the new tunnel - around 12 minutes end-to-end on hundreds of new services a week – plus new direct access to Melbourne’s major hospitals, universities, and St Kilda Rd, and time for everyone to get familiar with the new system and its stations.
That should also benefit visitors from the country, including those on the Albury line in traversing the metro area from east to west and west to east.
Backing farmers for a resilient future
OPINION
By SENATOR RAFF CICCONE, Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee chair
As Australian agriculture faces tougher conditions such as drought and a changing global trade environment, a significant funding boost has been announced to assist farmers across regional Victoria and Australia.
The Albanese Labor Government is injecting an extra $1 billion in new concessional loan funding through the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), bringing the total agricultural support through RIC loans to over $5 billion.
resilience of the agriculture industry.
In other words, these loans are designed to help farmers manage risks, invest in innovation and prepare for the realities of a changing climate and economy.
agricultural, fisheries and forestry industry is set to pass $100 billion this financial year.
This record growth is driven by strong prices for livestock and animal products –including beef, lamb and milk – which is projected to lift the value of livestock production to $41.6 billion.
These forecasts are a testament to the dedication, innovation and resilience of our farming communities.
The RIC provides lowinterest loans to eligible farm businesses and farm-related small businesses, helping them manage challenging times such as droughts and natural disasters.
It also supports first-time farmers to help establish their businesses and assists with succession planning for the next generation of farmers.
This additional investment represents a long-term commitment to helping farmers adapt to changing conditions and unexpected business disruptions, while strengthening the growth and
So far, over 3,400 loans have been approved through the RIC, with over $3.6 billion in settled funds delivering direct benefits on the ground to farmers.
This new loan funding is about giving farmers certainty, ensuring the scheme will remain available beyond 30 June 2026.
The Government is also broadening the RIC’s scope to include assistance for improving climate resilience, boosting productivity and supporting agriculture in Australia’s move to net zero.
This funding comes at a time when Australian farmers and producers are on track for a record-breaking year, with figures showing our
In addition to key farm support measures, the Albanese Government is strengthening international trade relations, investing $2 billion in biosecurity and backing regional workforce training to help secure the industry’s future.
With continued support and strong demand for highquality local produce, farmers and producers are well placed to stay among the best in the world and plan confidently for the future.
While challenges remain, Federal Labor is committed to equipping farmers across Australia with the tools they need to adapt, grow and lead in a changing climate and global market.
Senator Raff Ciccone is a Federal Labor Senator for Victoria and Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee.
FINALLY: The long awaited $13.8 billion Melbourne Metro Tunnel will open in December with the state government offering all travellers on the system free public transport until 1 February.
On Sunday, February 1, Victoria’s entire train network will be overhauled when the Metro Tunnel is integrated into the wider transport network, thousands of individual timetable changes are made at once, and more than 1000 new weekly train services commence.
A new timetable will be in place everywhere – including buses, trams, regional and metropolitan trains.
Premier Jacinta Allan said it would be an incredible moment for all Victorians.
“Victorians have patiently waited for this tunnel to get built underneath their feet and behind big sheds, and now they’ll be able to use it,” she said.
“The Metro Tunnel will transform Melbourne, cut congestion and get you to work, uni and home sooner – and it opens in early De-
cember, a year ahead of schedule.”
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams said the government will spend months communicating with passengers in the lead up to and after the Big Switch, so they know how their journey will change and improve.
Liberal MP for Benambra Bill Tilley said the government spent $20 billion on the tunnel (the government claimed it was $13.8B) and North East line commuters will achieve zero benefit.
“Trains will remain over-crowded, services inadequate, because Labor governs only for Melbourne and forgets country Victoria,” Mr Tilley said.
“The cost of this monument to Labor is the equivalent of 20 Greenfield Hospitals for the Border.”
Wangaratta Livestock
Flinders
Junior Reporter Club
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 What, colloquially, are expenses (7)
8 Who holds a commission in the armed services (7)
9 Name a statistician who computes risks, etc (7)
10 Which material is used for making fences (7)
11 To be indecent, is to be what (7)
12 What is a loud noise called (6)
14 What do we call a native of England (6)
18 Who painted “Bailed up”, Tom … (7)
21 Name a crocus, with handsome purple flowers (7)
22 Name a slice, with biscuit base, etc (7)
23 To be of low character, is to be what (7)
24 Which term relates to the side (7) DOWN
1 Name one who is supplied with meals and lodging (7)
2 To fasten or join, is to do what (5)
3 Which term means to accomplish (7)
4 What might we call a St George NRL player (6)
Letters
5 What are comrades known as (5)
Some
Create
6 Which term describes the most dignified (7)
7 What is a particular kind, sort, or type (5)
13 What is the main executive organ of government in Australia (7)
15 Clay tiles are used for what (7)
16 Who are nurses for children (7)
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To set upon with violence, is to do what (6)
18 To make merry, is to do what (5)
19 Name another term for a sovereign (5)
20 Name the bulky larvae of certain insects (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES: Baby’s bed (3)
Dried coconut meat (5) East Sydney cliff: The ... (3) Female deer (3)
Main root (7) Ornamental squash (5) Snake (3)
Stomp (5)
Top grade (5)
Vacationer (7)
IN PERSONBY PHONE SELLING A
WHEN TO BOOK BY EMAIL
Dear Readers
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Advertising Account Manager Print and Digital Media
Who are we looking for?
The ideal candidate will have:
WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER
North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to join our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.
• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.
• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones.
• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.
• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns.
• A current driver’s licence
What are we offering?
A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.
About North East Media
North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent familyowned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.
How to apply
If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:
Leah Scott lscott@nemedia.com.au
Advertising Manager North East Media Pty Ltd
Facilities Manager – 2026 School Year Bogong Campus
• 27 January to 18 December 2026
• 38 hours per week
Further information is available at www.vic.gov.au/schools-jobs or by contacting Roger Blackwell – Principal on
Senior Customer Service Officer
Full-Time
Looking for more than just a job?
Ready to lead a team and make a real impact in your local community?
At BankWAW, we’re a customer-owned, values-driven bank that puts people first - not profits. We’re proud to support local communities, and now we’re looking for a passionate and experienced Senior Customer Service Officer (SCSO) to lead our Wangaratta Service Centre and inspire a high-performing team of four.
About the Role
This is more than a leadership title - it’s a hands-on, people-first role where you’ll lead by example and build real connections. You won’t be stuck behind a desk - you’ll be right there with your team, delivering outstanding service to customers and supporting the day-to-day running of the branch.
To find out more, see our job ad on SEEK, Senior Customer Service Officer Job in Wangaratta, Yarra Valley & High Country VIC - SEEK
BankWAW is the registered
Our vision is to provide pathways for all to succeed based on their individual gifts and talents. Join our amazing team of educators and a professional environment that is passionate, collegial and focused on learning for all.
We are currently seeking applicants for the following fixed term position: - Resource Centre Technician (Term 4, Part Time)
Applications close on Wednesday 22nd October at 12pm For further details on how to apply please visit our website www.galen.vic.edu.au/employment/
Our school community promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children.
Galen Catholic College embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Leanne Judith
The family of Leanne Wood is saddened to announce her passing on October 9, 2025. Leanne was dearly loved by all her family, she will be missed by many. We are so lucky to have had her in our lives Dearly loved and loving wife of Alan for 40 years. Devoted mother and mother-in-law of Cameron and Sally, Brendan and Dianne, and Lauren. Adored Grandma to Sean, Jake, Kate, Marlon, and Harlow.
Finally at rest
WOOD
The Service of thanksgiving in celebration of the life of Leanne Judith Wood will be held in the Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan Street, Wangaratta on Thursday October 16, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. Burial will follow at the Milawa Cemetery. Leanne’s ceremony may be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
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WOOD
Wangaratta & District Cricket Association
A GRADE
CITY COLTS DEF BY WANGARATTA MAGPIES
WANGARATTA
Rhys Grant run out (H Moore)
Matthew Prestianni b: J Marek
b: A Brett
Nick Stebnyckyj
Chris Clement not out
Extras (15Wd, 6NB, 2LB, 2B)
Total 39.3 Overs (Run Rate: 6.33)
FOW: 1-94 Tyler Nanson (c: J Marek b: C Ormond); 2-126 Cooper Matheson (b: A Crispin); 3-155 David Killen (c: H Moore b: C Petersen); 4-168 Jack Davies (b: H Moore); 5-195 Nic Bonwick (b: H Moore); 6-213 James Thewlis (b: A Crispin); 7-214 Callum Honey (b: A Brett); 8-249 Rhys Grant (run out (H Moore)); 9-249 Matthew Prestianni (b: J Marek); 10-250 Nick Stebnyckyj (b: A Brett). BOWLING: (O-M-R-W): Jed Marek 8-0-56-1 Connor Ormond 6-0-27-1; Alasdair Brett 6.3-0-58-2; Archie Crispin 9-2-43-2; Hugh Spring 4-0-20-0; Corey Petersen 3-0-18-1; Harvey Moore 3-0-24-2.
CITY COLTS
Thomas Moore lbw: D Killen 19
Ben Feldtmann c: N Bonwick b: J Thewlis 20 Aaron Thrum b: C Clement
Jed Marek c: D Killen b: C Clement 4
Alasdair Brett b: C Clement
Max Marek c: J Davies b: C Clement 22
Mitchell Feldtmann b: N Stebnyckyj 11
Hugh Spring b: N Stebnyckyj 2
Archie Crispin c: R Grant b: C Clement 14
Corey Petersen not out 14*
Connor Ormond not out 52*
Harvey Moore did not bat
Extras (24Wd, 2NB, 3LB, 4B) 33
Total 45 Overs (Run Rate: 4.24) 191
FOW: 1-30 Thomas Moore (lbw: D Killen); 2-34 Aaron Thrum (b: C Clement); 3-46 Jed Marek (c: D Killen b: C Clement); 4-46 Alasdair Brett (b: C Clement); 5-51
Ben Feldtmann (c: N Bonwick b: J Thewlis); 6-75
Mitchell Feldtmann (b: N Stebnyckyj); 7-83 Hugh Spring (b: N Stebnyckyj); 8-107 Max Marek (c: J Davies b: C Clement); 9-114 Archie Crispin (c: R Grant b: C Clement). BOWLING: (O-M-R-W): Chris Clement 9-1-395; David Killen 9-0-42-1; James Thewlis 9-4-23-1; Rhys Grant 2-0-12-0; Nick Stebnyckyj 8-1-26-2; Tyler Nanson 8-1-42-0.
SCOREBOARD:
ROVERS UNITED BRUCK DEF BENALLA BUSHRANGERS
BENALLA BUSHRANGERS
Brayden Stepien c: M Whitten b: W Graham 9
James Carboon c: b: W Graham 1
Vaughan Kirk b: J Wilson 20
Jonty Priest not out 38*
Lucas Ham st: R Collier b: J Wilson 3 Lee Brennan c: R Collier b: W Graham 8
Matthew Priest b: B Bartlett 2
Dale Stratton run out (M Whitten) 3
Conor Brodie b: J Wilson 6
Mitchell Wheelens not out 5*
Xavier De Fazio did not bat
Extras (13Wd, 5NB, 5LB) 23
Total 45 Overs (Run Rate: 2.62) 118
FOW: 1-10 Brayden Stepien (c: M Whitten b: W Graham); 2-24 James Carboon (c: b: W Graham); 3-45
Vaughan Kirk (b: J Wilson); 4-56 Lucas Ham (st: R Collier b: J Wilson); 5-81 Lee Brennan (c: R Collier b: W Graham); 6-86 Matthew Priest (b: B Bartlett); 7-89 Dale Stratton (run out (M Whitten)); 8-111 Conor Brodie (b: J Wilson). BOWLING: (O-M-R-W): Jacob Schonafinger 9-1-18-0; Will Graham 9-3-19-3; Jeremy Wilson 9-3-203; Reid McNamara 4-1-12-0; Susanka Gamage 3-0-14-0; Cormac McNamara 3-0-16-0; Brady Bartlett 8-1-14-1.
ROVERS UNITED BRUCK
Charith Perera c: J Priest b: V Kirk 60
Ryan Collier not out 33*
Reid McNamara not out 21*
Brady Bartlett did not bat
Susanka Gamage did not bat Will Graham did not bat Cormac McNamara did not bat
Ryan Parsons did not bat
Jacob Schonafinger did not bat
Matthew Whitten did not bat Jeremy Wilson did not bat
Seamus Phillips (c: M Ryan b: J Carson); 3-91 Noah White (c: B Surrey b: R Worcester); 4-138 Joel Jordan (st: B Surrey b: H Scalzo); 5-138 Daniel Saville (st: B Surrey b: H Scalzo); 6-140 Conner Forde (c: B Surrey b: H Scalzo); 7-161 Geeth Alwis (st: B Surrey b: J Carson); 8-177 Joe Monk (b: M Ryan); 9-177 James Neary (lbw: M Ryan); 10-185 Nicholas Impink (lbw: R Worcester).
BOWLING: (O-M-R-W): Matthew Ryan 7-1-16-2; Timothy Turner 6-0-35-0; Richard Worcester 8.3-0-352; Jonathan Carson- -0-36-3; Henry Scalzo 9-2-28-3; ******** 3-0-23-0.
BEECHWORTH WANDERERS
Jackson Cull b: J Monk
Will Prebble lbw: G Alwis 15
Campbell Fendyk lbw: J Neary 1
Brenton Surrey c: J Neary b: J Jordan 63
Matthew Ryan b: J Jordan 4
Henry Scalzo c: C Forde b: J Jordan 5
Jonathan Carson c: N White b: G Alwis 17
******** b: J Jordan
******** b: J Jordan 1
Timothy Turner not out 10*
Taylor Thomson c: S Phillips b: G Alwis 4 Richard Worcester did not bat
Extras (6Wd, 2LB, 4B) 12
Total 39.2 Overs (Run Rate: 3.36) 132
FOW: 1-1 Jackson Cull (b: J Monk); 2-2 Campbell Fendyk (lbw: J Neary); 3-31 Will Prebble (lbw: G Alwis); 4-53 Matthew Ryan (b: J Jordan); 5-92 Henry Scalzo (c: C Forde b: J Jordan) 6-96 Brenton Surrey (c: J Neary b: J Jordan); 7-96 ******** (b: J Jordan); 8-100 ******** (b: J Jordan); 9-125 Jonathan Carson (c: N White b: G Alwis); 10-132 Taylor Thomson (c: S Phillips b: G Alwis).
BOWLING: (O-M-R-W): Joe Monk 8-0-26-1; James Neary 6-1-15-1; Geeth Alwis 7.2-1-19-3; Joel Jordan 9-0-29-5; Noah White 5-0-25-0; Owen Adams 4-0-12-0.
A RESERVE: Benalla Bushrangers 7-150 def by Delatite 3-154; Yarrawonga Mulwala 4-103 def Ovens Valley United 102; Wangaratta Magpies 148 def Rovers United Bruck 120.
UNDER 16 EUGENE KNEEBONE SHIELD: Yarrawonga Mulwala 8-89 def by City Colts 4-140; Beechworth-Ovens Valley United 5-99 def by Benalla Bushrangers 4-123; Delatite 79 def by Greta 7-80; Wangaratta Magpies 48 def by Rovers United Bruck 5-82.
UNDER 14 LEN HILL SHIELD: Rovers United Bruck 78 def by Benalla Bushrangers Red 3-134; City Colts Blue 6-75 def by Greta 5-99; Benalla Bushrangers Blue 6-73 def by Wangaratta Magpies 6-91; Beechworth Wanderers 7-138 def City Colts White 3-62; Yarrawonga Mulwala Bulls 5-102 def Delatite 8-50; Ovens Valley United 4-129 def Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 8-85.
Wangaratta & District Cricket Association
2025/26 season
MATCH REVIEWS: Saturday, October 11
Wang Magpies hammer City Colts by 60 runs in season opener
By NATHAN DE VRIES
It was a barrage of power shots from the Magpies’ top order which saw them post an ultimately defendable 250 total in their opening round clash against City Colts on Saturday.
Sent in to bat by the Colts, half-centuries to openers Cooper Matheson (52 off 52 balls) and Tyler Nanson (52 from 28) set the tone for the match, forging a 94-run opening wicket stand to have the Magpies off to a flyer.
Composed knocks to Jack Davies (27 from 61), Dave Killen (12 from 19), and Jimmy Thewlis (38 from 25) saw the total tick up towards the 200 mark, but the innings faltered through the middle order.
Cheap dismissals to Nic Bonwick (six from eight) and Callum Honey (five from eight) halted momentum, but the lower order stuck around to post a formidable total of 10/250.
For the Colts, Alasdair Brett was impactful but expensive, going at almost nine an over to finish with 2/58, while Harvey Moore (2/24 from three overs) and Corey Petersen (1/18 from three) chipped in. Magpies skipper Cooper Matheson said it was a conscious effort tot keep the attack-
ing stroke play flowing through the early stages of the innings.
“I think we probably ended 50 runs short of where we wanted to be, being 100 after nine or so overs, but we were still happy with it,” he said.
“Tyler’s already showing us what he’s capable of, he really enjoyed being out there, which is good.
“Especially with the new rule of two out for 12 overs, the plan really is to go flat out from the word ‘go’ and see where we can get to, and reevaluate after those 12.
“[There were] a lot of soft dismissals in the middle order - I think Rhys Grant and Matt Prestianni saved us a bit there, they put on a really good partnership towards the end after ‘Bottles’ [Nic Bonwick] and Cal [Honey] threw their wickets away.
“They showed a few of the middle order how to consolidate and keep pushing – I think they were going at six an over which is pretty good going without playing any ridiculous shots.
“The outfield was rapid, so you didn’t need to take too many risks.”
With the runs on the board, it was now up to the Magpies to defend and strike early.
After Dave Killen trapped
Thomas Moore LBW for 18, Chris Clement came into the attack and had immediate impact. Clement knocked over Aaron Thrum with his second legal delivery, before picking up Jed Marek (four) and Alasdair Brett in consecutive balls the very next over.
The flood gates opened, and while there was some resistance from Max Marek in the middle order, Clement would not be denied, finishing with 5/39 from his 9 overs, ably assisted by Nick Stebnyckyj’s 2/26.
The one bright spot for the Colts would be the resistance from their younger batters, with Connor Ormond (52* from 50) and Corey Petersen (14* from 41) holding fast to avoid being bowled out in their 45 overs.
“We were happy to kick, it [the season] off that way, but we really wanted to get that last wicket,” Matheson said.
“Clemmo’s unreal, he brings a lot because he’s a left-arm – a lot of the bowlers in our comp that are left-arm take heaps of wickets every year.
“We didn’t have a left-armer last year, so it’s good to have him back among it, getting five fa in his first game back shows what he can do.”
Rovers United Bruck claim nine-wicket win over Benalla Bushrangers to open season account
■ From back page
RUB skipper Wilson said it was a brilliant performance to start the season with the ball.
“We didn’t know what to expect, we don’t often play at home in round one so we were unsure of what the deck was going to throw at us,” he said.
“Will Graham set the tone early, he’s had a few great years in A reserve, and he’s taken his game to another level.
“He got ‘Steppo’ [Brayden Stepien] and Jimmy Carboon out early, really put the pressure back on them and turned the game in our favour from the outset.
“I think we had seven bowlers, just rotated everyone around, kept to the basics, bowled full and straight and set the field accordingly.
“The ground was pretty quick, so if you bowled a loose one it went to the boundary pretty quick - to keep them to 118, we were rapt with that.”
With an achievable target ahead of them, RUB’s top three batters made short work of the total, reaching 121 for just the loss of one wicket.
Charith Perera was the damage dealer, smashing 60 from 54 balls to bring his team within 40 of the final total.
Ryan Collier (33* from 64) and Reid McNamara (21* from 41) were classy enough to steer the ship home with more than 18
overs to spare.
“We don’t tell ‘Chazzy’ [Perera] how to play his game, he knows it, he’s been doing it a long time, he knows when to go and when not to go,” Wilson said.
“He just plays to his strength, that’s the way he plays, so for him to get us off to a flyer really took the pressure off, and Ryan and Reid capitalised and finished it off.
“It’s a bit weird the game’s over in the 26th over, but those are the new rules, so it was good for those boys to really start the season in good form.”
Elsewhere in the A grade, Ovens Valley took the win over Beech worth Wanderers, bowling the Wanderers out for 132 defending their total of 185.
Last year’s champion player Geeth Alwis continued his fine form, making 53 from 65 deliv eries, while Seamus Phillips (37 from 44) and Dylan Bursill (28 from 33) forged a 62-run first wicket stand to set the Tigers up well.
Off-spinner Jonathan Carson was effective for Beechworth, picking up 3/36, while Henry Scalzo (3/28) and Matt Ryan (2/16) were impactful.
In the chase, barring a stunning virtuoso performance from Bren ton Surrey (63 from 66), the Wan derers offered little resistance, with English signing Joel Jordan on fire with 5/29.
Charith Perera’s powerful knock of 60 included nine boundaries.
RIGHT ARM OVER: Hugh Spring hits the crease and delivers.
CASTLED: Nic Bonwick gets his stumps rattled.
SLASHING: Jack Davies and the Magpies batters were on song early to post 250.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
MASTER MASTER BLASTER:
KNOCKED OVER
Archie Crispin pumps his fist after scattering James Thewlis’ bails. Despite a strong effort, Colts would be defeated by the Magpies by 60 runs. Story on page 15.
Rovers United Bruck claim nine-wicket win over Benalla Bushrangers to open season account
The reigning premiers of the WDCA A grade competi tion look to have the goods once more, after Rovers United Bruck chased down the target set by Benalla Bushrangers in the 27th over.
Sent into the field by the Bushrangers, the Hawks’ bowling battery maintained a tight line and length, lim-
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
iting Benalla to just 8/118 from their set of 45 overs.
It was young gun Will Graham who would give them the early advantage, knocking over Benalla skipper
Brayden Stepien for nine and James Carboon for just one, the Bushrangers shaky at 2/24.
Vaughn Kirk would stop the bleeding with a composed 20 from 41 balls, but would have his stumps rattled by a Jeremy Wilson spinner.
Jonty Priest would play
the anchor role, seeing out 116 deliveries for his 38*, but would be saddled with a revolving door of batting partners at the end.
No other batter would make it to double digits, as the Hawks’ attack challenged the stumps and outside edge of the bat, often with the desired result.
Lucas Ham (three) was stumped short of his ground, Lee Brennan (eight) edged one into the waiting gloves of Ryan Collier for Graham’s third scalp, and Brady Bartlett sent Matthew Priest back to the sheds with just two runs to his name.
Benalla were in trouble at 6/86, but it would go from
bad to worse when a calamitous run out affected by Matt Whitten saw the back of Dale Stratton for just three runs. With time running out, Wilson would pick up another wicket, with Benalla having set a sub-par score for the Hawks.
