WANGARATTA MAGPIES SOAR INTO THE GRAND FINAL
Daniel Sharrock lets out a roar of triumph after the Magpies secured their spot in this Sunday’s O&M senior grand final.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
Restrictions ease
Victoria Police have con firmed the largest tacti cal policing operation in Australian history was un dertaken on Friday as the search continues for 56-yearold Dezi Freeman, the man accused of fatally shooting two police officers and injuring a third in Porepunkah on August 26.
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
dle of Freeman’s location,” he said.
of properties with and without warrant, made our way through abandoned structures, searched mine shafts, caves and huts.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Russell Barrett addressed media on Sunday morning, providing a detailed update on the unprecedented search effort and changes to community safety advice.
“They’ve crawled through caves, traversed rivers and waterfalls, and searched plantations and gorges in extremely rugged terrain.
“Over 125 specialist tactical members from every Australian state and territory, as well as New Zealand, scoured an area in the mid-
“I thank our colleagues and the broader policing family from Australia and New Zealand for their unwavering support in our efforts to bring Freeman before the justice system.
“We’ve searched hundreds
“The operation continues and our resolve to find Freeman does not change.”
Freeman, a self-described “sovereign citizen” with a history of anti-government rhetoric, fled into the bushland surrounding Mount Buffalo National Park following the deadly shooting.
Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 34, were shot dead as they and eight other officers attended Freeman’s home to execute a search warrant relating to historical sex offence allegations.
Both fallen officers have been formally farewelled at the Victoria Police Academy in Melbourne in moving services.
Police have received more than 1100 public information reports over the last three weeks.
Despite the extensive efforts, Freeman remains at large.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Barrett announced a change in travel advice for the Porepunkah area.
“We’re making a slight lift in the travel warnings for the Porepunkah area,” he said.
■ Continued page 2
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. Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.
Friday’s
Sabrina Kaitlyn Stonham
Wangaratta on Tuesday, 9 September at 10:48am and weighed 3.495kg (7lb 11oz). She is the daughter of Rachael Healy and Jordan Stonham of Wangaratta.
search in Porepunkah area the largest tactical police operation in Australia’s history
■ From page 1
“Our changes to allow the community to return to a state of normality, people can return to the area, though the park remains closed.
“Our search efforts remain focused on that area, but we want to thank the local community and the broader Victorian community for their efforts and support while we’ve undertaken what is so far been an extensive search.”
The VicEmergency community information message previously active within areas including Wangaratta and Beechworth has now condensed to Porepunkah and surrounding areas including Myrtleford and Bright.
The message still advises those in the area to remain vigilant.
A $1 million reward remains on offer for information leading to Freeman’s arrest, the largest ever offered in Victoria for facilitating an arrest.
Police continue to investigate the possibility that Freeman is being harboured by associates.
“We’re open to all possibilities, Freeman may be in the area, may be harboured, or may be de ceased,” said Acting Deputy Com missioner Barrett.
stricted to the area, whilst we’re focused on a ground search in that area, our investigation is much broader than what we’re seeing on the ground, and we’re we’re following up all leads, all intelligence, all information that’s provided to us.
“Our response will change at some point in time and continues to change, but the investigation continues until he’s brought to justice.
“Freeman will always be pursued until he’s located.
“We will leave no stone unturned to try and establish how we can best conduct this investigation.”
Police advise that if you see Freeman, call 000 immediately but do not approach him as he was still considered heavily armed and dangerous.
Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.
For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.
TOUGH TERRAIN: Some of the difficult terrain involved in the massive police search.
BIGGEST SEARCH IN HISTORY: More than 125 tactical policing units from Australia and New Zealand converged in the Porpeunkah area on Friday.
EYES IN THE SKY: The search for Freeman entered a 20th day on Sunday.
STRONG RESOLVE: The largest tactical policing operation in Australia’s history took place in the Porepunkah area on Friday, as the search for Dezi Freeman continued. PHOTOS: Victoria Police
Old Faithfulls owners looking to branch out
Old Faithfulls Brew Bar has lodged a planning application to open another cafe, restaurant and bar establishment on Wangaratta’s Phillipson Street, a venture that’s estimated to create 15 jobs in the city.
The popular business has been trading on Faithfull Street for several years and the new venture will be an additional establishment proposed for the building that a dance studio formerly occupied on the corner of Phillipson and Matheson streets.
New business plans include casual and family dining areas, outdoor seating, a bar, and kids playroom, along with kitchen and other required amenities.
Old Faithfulls owner David Thayer and his partner Tanya McAlpin are excited about offering a point of difference, located in the West End of the city.
The couple live in the neighbourhood but they’ve always thought that the spots to eat and drink in were limited.
“We haven’t finalised the menu yet but we will offer a certain type of cuisine from a specific country, not your standard bistro/pub menu,” Mr Thayer said.
“We’ve got our mind set on how it will look and feel at the venue, we’ve just got to match the food to suit it.
“We got on the front foot
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
and sent letters to neighbours because some people were thinking it’s going to be a pub.
“It’s not, it’s going to be a family orientated restaurant, have some good food, drinks, and some live acoustic entertainment.”
Three neighbours have already contacted David and Tanya asking about parking and noise and they’ve explained it to them.
“They said it’s really good to know and we won’t be putting an objection in,” he said.
Details in the application include a cafe and restaurant licence until 11pm, with a patron capacity of 120 people.
Operating hours are proposed to include Monday to Saturday 7am to 11pm, Sunday 10am to 11pm, and Anzac Day and Good Friday - 12 noon to 11pm.
There are 26 on-premise carparking spaces and 13 onstreet spaces.
Plans show that parking will be onsite and on Phillipson Street, with no parking encouraged on Matheson Street.
Dave and Tanya have found there’s a real appetite for live music in the city with multiple artists contacting them every week asking to perform.
Plans are for the propose
Glenrowan Solar Farm targeted in burglaries
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
the prospects of offering a family orientated cafe, restaurant and bar in the West End of Wangaratta while maintaining operation of their successful business on the Faithfull Street riverside.
INSET: A proposal to transform what used to be a dance studio for many years into a cafe, restaurant and bar is before council.
venue to host outdoor music that will be limited to background or acoustic-style performances.
Live music will also be held indoors and contained within the main area where doors and windows will be closed to prevent spill when necessary.
Noise attenuation will include soundproofing of the
venue including installation of acoustic insulation, doubleglazed windows, and sealed doors to minimise escape of sound.
Speaker placement will include directional speakers angled away from residential areas and isolated from structural floors to reduce vibration.
Noise limiters will include use of separated volume controls to ensure amplified music does not exceed approved decibel levels.
Monitoring will include regular decibel readings taken at the boundary of the premises to ensure compliance with EPA Victoria and local council regulations.
Police are investigating of the previous burglaries. Det Sen Const Howarth said all three past burglaries had been resolved, with offenders apprehended and items retrieved. He said it was most likely new offenders on this occasion and Wangaratta detectives continued to investigate. Anyone with information regarding the thefts is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Wangaratta Police on (03) 5723 0888.
Construction begins on new staff housing at NHW
Construction has commenced on Northeast Health Wangaratta’s highly anticipated staff housing development in Dixon Street.
The project, supported through the Victorian government’s Regional Worker Accommodation Fund, will deliver nine new dwellings close to the hospital, with a mix of one and two-bedroom units providing a total of 16 beds for healthcare workers. The first slab is scheduled to be poured today, 12 September, with framing to follow in the coming
weeks, with the whole development scheduled to be completed by June next year.
NHW executive director of people and corporate operations, Kim Bennetts, said the development will have a lasting impact on both the health workforce and the wider community.
“We are thrilled to be working in conjunction with the Victorian government on a significant project that will have a lasting impact on both the healthcare workforce and the local community,” Ms
Bennetts said.
“With the support of this grant, NHW is set to provide essential accommodation that will not only support our staff but also ease pressure on the local rental market.”
The initiative comes in response to the ongoing challenge of securing affordable housing in regional areas.
By providing stable accommodation, NHW aims to make it easier to attract and retain skilled healthcare workers while also returning existing rental stock used by staff back to the Wangaratta community.
Ms Bennetts said the project demonstrates NHW’s commitment to its workforce and the community.
“This project is a critical step in supporting our staff in a challenging rental market,” she said.
“By investing in accommodation for healthcare workers, we are ensuring that our team has the stability they need to continue providing excellent care.
“This initiative also makes NHW a more attractive and proactive employer, reinforcing our long-term commitment to the region.”
WEST END PLANS: Owner of Old Faithfulls David Thayer is excited about
PHOTO: Steve Kelly
accommodation dwellings.
Inner Wheel aims to keep turning by bolstering ranks
By SIMONE KERWIN
For more than 30 years, Inner Wheel Wangaratta has made a significant contribution to the local community and beyond.
Now, the club is keen to bolster its ranks with new members, to continue its great work.
Founded in England in 1924 and established in Australia in 1931, Inner Wheel is one of the largest women’s voluntary service organisations in the world, and is active in 104 countries.
Clubs and members contribute to the national project - Cord Blood Research, which provides medical research grants - and Inner Wheel clubs also support the needs of their communities, focusing on women and children and often partnering with likeminded organisations on fundraising projects.
For instance, the Wangaratta group has for the past 12 years conducted monthly cook-ups to provide meals for Wangaratta Carevan, and currently utilises facilities provided free of charge by The Centre and food supplied by Woolworths Wangaratta, with local VCAL students assisting in the project.
The club also recently donated a park bench at the Wangaratta Cemetery, and prepares emergency packs for patients who find themselves without care essentials during a stay at Northeast Health Wangaratta.
Membership in Inner Wheel provides an environment for not only developing strong friendships and connecting with the needs of the community, but for building global understanding.
Every two years, a vote is taken for an international project to which Inner Wheel will contribute; this year’s project is for disabled carers in Timor Leste.
“We would love to encourage more people, es-
pecially younger people, to join,” Inner Wheel Wangaratta member Patti Stafford said.
President Dale King said the club (which meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm at the Old Town ‘n’ Country Tavern) was a great starting point for teaching young people about caring for and giving back to their communities.
“The friendship and in-
volvement with the community is so special,” Patti said.
“I’m a past president of Wangaratta, a past district chair and have been involved in coordinating the national conference, and I have friends all over Australia who I’ve met through Inner Wheel.
“I want to be able to pass on that opportunity.”
As well as its monthly meetings at the Old Town ‘n’ Country Tavern, the
Wangaratta group holds a monthly coffee morning get-together, increasing social opportunities for its members.
Over the past 20 years, Inner Wheel Australia has raised more than $3 million for Cord Blood Research, providing grants to researchers who are working with cord blood stem cells in the field of leukaemia and other blood disorders, as well as stroke, heart dis-
ease, type 1 diabetes, auto immune diseases, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy and prostate cancer.
“Three scientists each year receive $65,000, and at our next conference to be held in Corowa in October, another three grants will be presented,” Patti said. Anyone interested in finding out more about Inner Wheel Wangaratta is encouraged to contact Dale on 0418 469 755.
Agriculture Victoria is hosting a workshop in Mansfield - one of a series across Victoria - to help producers make informed decisions around this season’s fodder production.
Agriculture Victoria Regional Manager for Meat and Wool, Brad Costin is encouraging producers to attend the fodder field day at the Mansfield Golf Club on September 17 to hear from well-known expert Frank Mickan on how to get the most out of their pasture hay or silage this spring.
“Frank Mickan is an industry-renowned specialist in fodder and pasture conservation who will provide insights into producing high-quality hay and silage,” Mr Costin said.
All workshops will cover the following topics:
• how to make the best quality hay and silage
• fodder quality influence on livestock production
• understanding the ensiling process
• including additives
• storage systems and minimising wastage
• feed testing. Bookings are essentialhttps://www.trybooking.com/ DFDKX
For further information, contact Toni Dakis, Agricultural Recovery Officer on 0428 975 728 or at toni.dakis@agricul-
ture.vic.gov.au
To find more information about available drought support visit www.agriculture.vic. gov.au/drought or call 136 186. These events are being delivered by Frank Mickan on behalf of Agriculture Victora as part of the Victorian Government’s statewide Drought Support Package.
Inner Wheel Wangaratta’s monthly cook-up, serving portions of
by funds raised during the presidency of Shirley Wohlers. Pictured are Jenny Ambrosio, Dianne Cameron, Rhonda Palstra and Dale King.
BUILDING CONNECTIONS: International Inner Wheel president Kay Morland meets Wangaratta club treasurer Karen Fenn and president Dale King at a recent district meeting.
Shocking number of children homeless
Children under the age of five are among those facing homelessness in the Wangaratta area, ac cording to frontline work ers trying to help those in need.
Wangaratta youth homelessness support provider NESAY says the shocking reality for children facing homelessness revealed in a recent nationwide report is being reflected in their day-to-day experiences.
According to an analysis released by Barnardos Australia, in June 2025, 28,279 children went to a specialist homelessness service for help.
Concerningly, 30 per cent of them were under the age of five, a further 27 per cent were aged five to nine.
NESAY wellbeing manager Georgie Gray, said the Barnardos Australia report is distressing, and NESAY is doing everything it can to prevent the trauma of the experience of family violence and homelessness.
“Our services are seeing young people at a younger and younger age who are experiencing family violence and homelessness,” she said.
“The impacts of this are
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
long lasting and cannot be overstated.”
New snapshot analysis of the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data released by Barnardos Australia this week shows girls are significantly overrepresented when it comes to children seeking help without a parent or guardian.
In 2023-24, 13,300 unaccompanied children accessed specialist homelessness services, and 63 per cent were female.
Barnardos Australia frontline worker Eliza Gibbs said this should be a massive wake up call for governments and communities.
“Thousands of children, who are in many cases leaving unsafe home environments, are winding up homeless,” she said.
“Children are not bystanders to crises like homelessness and family violence, they are also victims-survivors, and we cannot stand for that as Australians.
“If we are going to pro-
CALLS
FOR CHANGE: 30 per cent of children who went to a specialist homelessness service for help in June were under the age of five.
tect children, we need to ensure families have safe and secure housing, but we also need childfocused support and early intervention programs to protect children facing family violence and homelessness.
“Children who experience these unthinkable kinds of challenges early on in life, will be more likely to end up in a cycle of homelessness and poverty.
“We must break that cycle for our nation’s children.”
The NESAY staff work alongside families and their children, to prevent
Treaty bill introduced to parliament
The Victorian government and First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria have reached an in-principle agreement on Australia’s first Treaty.
The government introduced the Statewide Treaty Bill into the Victorian Parliament last week.
It’s an agreement that aims to bring together First Peoples, through the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, and the Victorian government, to build a new relationship based on respect, trust and integrity.
the cycle of homelessness and disadvantage.
NESAY transitional services manager Claire Anderson said early intervention was a key to helping reduce the reoccurrence of homelessness.
“NESAY’s services focus on supporting young people and their families, working closely with schools and local agencies to provide holistic care,” she said.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved - whether through volunteering, community partnerships, or making a contributionvisit nesay.com.au.
The bill proposes to make the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria permanent and expand its responsibilities to deliver better outcomes for First Peoples in the state.
It proposes the expanded assembly to:
• be led by democratically elected members providing representation of First Peoples;
• make decisions and rules about specific matters that directly impact First Peoples;
• Form an independent accountability mechanism as required by the National Agreement to Close the Gap;
• be consulted by government departments on laws and policies affecting First Peoples;
• lead ongoing truth-telling and healing across Victorian towns and regions, including capturing stories and retaining an archive of this information to support education of the broader public.
• make certain statutory appointments for existing designated First Peoples’ seats such as First Peoples appointments to the Heritage Council of Victoria;
• lead the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Fund, Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll and NAIDOC Week; and
• develop a First Peoples’ Institute to enhance leadership capability across the sector.
PATH TO TREATY: The first state Treaty bill was introduced into Victorian Parliament last week. PHOTO: Leroy Miller
NOTE:
A call to action for those in need
Homelessness in Wangaratta is a growing and deeply concerning issue, affecting individuals and families across all age groups, including children.
This isn’t a distant issue; it’s happening here, in our streets, our schools and our neighbourhoods.
Local support services like NESAY are witnessing firsthand the increasing number of young people, some as young as five, who are facing housing insecurity due to family violence, financial hardship and systemic gaps in support.
While Wangaratta is known for its strong sense of community, homelessness isn’t always visible, it can look like couch surfing, overcrowded living or sleeping in cars.
These circumstances are not just uncomfortable; they are unsafe and damaging, especially for children whose development and wellbeing are at risk.
These people are not just numbers, they are our neighbours, and they deserve safety, stability and hope.
Homelessness is not just about lacking a roof, it’s about trauma, disrupted education, poor health and a cycle of disadvantage that can last a lifetime.
As a community, we must rally behind organisations like NESAY, Beyond Housing, The Orange Door, Zac’s Place and Loaves and Fishes Christian Caring.
It’s time to ask your self how can you hep. Whether it’s volunteering, donating or spreading awareness, every action counts.
Homelessness is not inevitable, it’s a problem we can solve together.
Let’s be the community that stands up, speaks out and supports those who need us most.
If you need support, visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/CommunityProjects-2/Community-Relief.
The Quiz No.152
1. 1. What type of creature is a terrapin?
2. 2. Who was the main star of the 1997 movie, The Game?
3. 3. Which country has claimed the largest territory of Antarctica?
4. 4. Who was Walt Disney’s most successful cartoon character of all time?
5. 5. Which bay forms the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean?
6. 6. Who was the first female Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives?
7. 7. The Goya Awards are the main national annual film awards in which country?
8. 8. Which game has variations called stud and draw?
9. 9. In which Australian state or territory is the Hidden Valley Raceway located?
10. 10. Which seeds are also known as locust beans?
11. 11. In which year were the first Winter Olympics held?
12. 12. The Great Barrier Reef is located in which sea?
13. 13. Chişin u is the capital city of which country?
14. 14. Who is the main host of the 2010s TV game show, Have You Been Paying Attention?
15. 15. What is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand?
16. 16. How many times was Ginger Rogers married?
17. 17. What is the main vegetable used in the making of a hash brown?
18. 18. Which Grand Slam singles tennis tournament did Evonne Goolagong Cawley never win?
19. 19. What is the world’s largest landlocked country?
20. 20. Who had the 1990 hit, U Can’t Touch This?
Facebook users this week commented on the relaunch of local Woolworths store.
Gwenda Woodward: Congratulations Facebook users this week also commented on Wangaratta Auskick Centre coordinator Ben Watts taking out awards.
Kerri Michelini: Congrats Ben Wendy Lester: Congratulations Ben well deserved.
Michael Kranz: Congrats
Ben Watts. Keep up the good work Chalky!!
Mitch Giggins: Unreal, absolute legend
Facebook users this week also commented on the federal government agreeing to issue a payout to robodebt scandal victims.
Leslie Matthews: Remind me again who was responsible for this..
Paul Crabb: Leslie Matthews They still have blood
North East horses hit hard by drought
As the Team Leader for RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate North East region, I manage a team of five Inspectors investigating animal cruelty reports from St Kilda to Albury and everywhere in between.
My team and I are on the front line, and we are often the first to see concerning trends and witness what pet ownership in Victoria really looks like.
Sadly, the ongoing drought and cost-of-living pressures are making it harder for people to care for their animals, and my team and I are seeing the impact first-hand.
The majority of what we deal with is not malicious cruelty, but neglect stemming from financial stress, poor access to feed, or personal challenges like mental health issues. These situations are incredibly complex, and our job is to balance enforcing animal welfare laws with helping people do better by their pets.
Wherever possible, my team and I try to support owners before things reach a crisis point.
This may be providing emergency pet food, bedding or kennels, or helping with preventative flea and worming treatments.
Sometimes, the animals’ owners recognise their animal’s well-being is at risk and choose to surrender their animal into our care, while sometimes, we need to step in and seize their animal.
In the last financial year, there were 543 animals from the North East seized by, or surrendered to, RSPCA Inspectors.
We’re extremely fortunate to work closely with local police and councils, and this support helps us to care for the community and their pets.
Other cases involved households simply being overwhelmed by the number of animals they had taken in.
In the North East, we are continually seeing unwanted litters due to animals not being desexed, leaving owners struggling to meet the demands of providing basic care for many, vulnerable young animals.
This year, RSPCA Victoria’s Animal Cruelty Report 2024/25 shows animal hoarding, hungry animals and horse cases are rising across the state.
In the last financial year, RSPCA Victoria responded to over 10,200 animal cruelty reports across the state.
Many of these involved animals being left without enough food, water or shelter, with horses hit particularly hard, and our region is no different.
We know times are tough, and many people are struggling to provide even the basics for the animals they love.
on their hands !
Facebook users this week also commented on a predicted maximum rate cap for council rates over the next 10 years.
Andrew Meloury: Are the councillors wages capped as well
Facebook users this week also commented on calls for urgent support for Alpine businesses amid manhunt.
Linda Simpson: Jacinta
Allan these businesses need and deserve financial sup port/compensation for as long as they are impacted.
Get this done.
Stephen English: Linda Simpson sorry Linda don’t hold your breath with the Allen socialist left government it’s only in a country town and it’s not digging a hole so you can put a train in it I’m sorry to be negative but there past form isn’t exactly real excitement
Have your say Like the Wangaratta
This is why community support is so important; reports from locals can sometimes be the reason an animal is rescued in time.
We rely on the generous support of the community for more than 90 per cent of our operating expenses.
To everyone who has made an animal cruelty report, thank you.
Your willingness to help fight animal cruelty means the world to us and, more importantly, to the animals whose lives are turned around because of it.
If you have concerns about the welfare of an animal, please make a report at rspcavic.org/ cruelty-report.
Together, we can end cruelty to all animals.
Belinda Dent, RSPCA Inspectorate team leader (North East region).
Don’t bulldoze our dairy safety specialist
Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has called out “tokenistic” consultation behind the announcement to establish Safe Food Victoria – the organisation set to replace the specialist Dairy Food Safety Victoria (DFSV).
The so-called ‘consultation’ felt like more of an ultimatum.
You can’t consult when you don’t bring any genuine options to the table, you can only enforce your decision.
This is a solution in search of a problem.
Don’t dismantle a proven, specialist regulator and replace it with a one-size-fits-none bureaucracy.
The stakes are too high for guesswork.
ADF has been tracking these changes closely, not least because DFSV is seen as the leading organisation in food safety technical expertise across Australia’s dairy industry.
More milk is produced in Victoria than in any other state in Australia, so it makes sense
that the bulk of our knowledge in this field is developed in Victoria.
Given we’ve not seen a business case for the transition to Food Safety Victoria, and nobody can outline any grounds for improvement at DFSV, we see this as a clear and blatant cash grab by the debt-stricken Victorian government.
DFSV doesn’t cost taxpayers anything; it’s fully funded by farmers – in fact, as we understand it, the organisation has a multi-milliondollar bank balance which will probably be consumed by consolidated government expenditure.
ADF has repeated its invitation for the Victorian Government to engage in good faith and reconsider how a cost-neutral organisation can continue to provide value to a vital industry. If the Allan government truly wants to cut red tape, fix the audits and harmonise rules across councils.
Keep DFSV independent, risk-based and focused on dairy, rather than building a bigger bottleneck.
You don’t bulldoze the house to replace a door.
Ben Bennett, Australian Dairy Farmers president
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September for Appin Park Primary School’s athletics day. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
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Aussie jazz star to shine in Wangaratta festival
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Like most people involved in Australia’s jazz and blues scene, Emma Pask regularly keeps an eye on the line-up, award results and health of Wangaratta’s annual festival.
This year, she will be able to do so from close quarters, as one of the artists performing at the annual event.
“I have been to Wangaratta over the years, and I am a huge fan; even from a distance, watching the outcome of the jazz award with its different focus each year,” she said.
“I love that you can arrive in a place where, for a few days, people are listening to music and walking around between shows.
“It means a lot that audiences have that opportunity in a regional location, and we want festivals like this to have longevity.”
The award-winning vocalist will perform at the festival on Saturday, 1 November, when she takes the stage at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre as part of the Emma Pask Quartet, with Kevin Hunt on piano, Gordon Rytmeister on drums, and Ben Robertson on bass.
“All four of us have played together at some time, but not together as a quartet for some time,” Emma said.
“I think of it as a real collaboration - every person in a quartet plays a crucial role.”
The WPACC show, from 7.30pm on the second night of the festival, will be a chance to hear one of Australia’s finest voices interweave storytelling through timeless swinging jazz standards, upbeat Latin rhythms, tender ballads, and of course some raucous blues.
The Benalla Art Gallery will temporarily close at the end of the month with the current site to undergo a major redevelopment.
The redevelopment is being conducted in two stages, with the first stage including new art storage facilities (upgraded to national standards), an extension for a new purpose-built café and restaurant, enhanced lobby and display area, and improvements to behind-thescenes functionality.
The second stage will include climate-control upgrades, revitalised exhibition areas and improvements to the efficiency of the building’s operation, with upgraded insulation and mechanical systems.
Benalla Rural City said preparations are now underway for a new temporary popup gallery space, anticipated to open in mid-November, at Bridge Street East, Benalla.
The temporary site will feature a dedicated gallery space, providing a flexible and engaging environment to continue showcasing significant works, with the gallery shop to also operate from the new location.
Emma said it would be “a pleasure and a joy” to perform for a Wangaratta audience, and to present the style of music she loved from an early age.
“We had those sounds around at home, and it was something I was drawn to,” she said.
“Music has always been it for me - I studied it as a youngster in school, and then found out I could do it as a job.
“I remember in my teens, working in a bar and in a clothing store and a health food store, I was definitely taking too much time off to gig, then it turned into doing session work, and I discovered a world where I could use my voice beyond singing and jazz - such as voicing Dorothy the Dinosaur.”
Known for being discovered as a teenager by Australian jazz musician James Morrison, for appearing on The Voice in 2013, and for performing the bridal waltz at the wedding of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, Emma’s life has taken on a different focus over the past couple of years.
Her husband Rod was involved in a motorcycle accident in December, 2023 which left him paralysed from the waist down, and the couple have worked together on his recovery, with Emma documenting his progress on Instagram.
Of course, music has been a great support, but has also produced some emotional moments.
“There are a lot of songs in my repertoire which take an emo-
Benalla Rural City Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the pop-up gallery would give the community continued access to quality exhibitions while gallery facilities are upgraded, while supporting further activation of the CBD.
“We are proud of the Benalla Art Gallery and the important role it plays within our community,” Cr Hearn said.
“While works are underway at the main
site, the
will give people
a central place to keep enjoying the Benalla Art Gallery’s incredible collection.”
The Benalla Art Gallery Redevelopment is being delivered with government funding including $3 million from the Victorian Government and $2.965 million from the Federal Government.
The gallery’s current site will close to the public on Sunday, 28 September and is estimated to reopen in mid-2026.
AROUND THE ARTS Applications open for MAMA RAW26 art exhibition
Applications for the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA) RAW26 are now open.
RAW is an annual open call for artists aged 16 to 21, showcasing the best original artworks being produced by young people of the Murray region, including Albury, Wodonga and surrounding areas –from Wagga Wagga to Falls Creek and Benalla to Tumbarumba.
The annual exhibition program highlights the creative strengths of local young people, including HSC/ VCE students, recent school leavers, and those who quietly work away on their budding masterpieces purely of their own initiative.
MAMA said it is committed to supporting and working with young artists in the region, providing opportunities for artistic growth and professional development.
Artists selected for the program will be involved in three workshop sessions leading up to the exhibition covering artwork preparation, exhibition installation and organising the opening event.
tional toll; I remember a year ago when I sang ‘The More I See You’, I got really emotional thinking of my husband,” she said.
“He is incredibly supportive of me, and we are making it work; he’s impressed me so much.
“While I haven’t been focusing on recording projects, I’ve been working with my trio and duo and doing gigs with the Pops Orchestra with John Foreman, and also sinking my teeth into a few things, including a Burt Bacharach tribute.
“I can’t wait to bring music and joy to people in Wangaratta - and to ourselves.”
For more information about the Emma Pask Quartet show at WPACC, and other performances at the festival, visit https://wangjazzblues.com.au
Artists from all backgrounds and levels of experience are encouraged to apply - painting, moving image, photography, mixed media, sculpture, performance, sound, text-based work, ceramics, objectbased and conceptual practices is welcomed as part of the great breadth of contemporary art the Museum nurtures, desires and celebrates.
The application comprises a short questionnaire, a description of the applicant’s work and visual examples of their work, such as photographs or a video link.
Applications close Friday, 26 September at 5pm, with successful RAW 2026 applicants notified in October.
RAW 2026 will be on display for eight weeks, from 13 February until 29 March in 2026.
For more information including application guidelines visit mamalbury.com.au/RAW26-applicationsopen.
JAZZ QUEEN: Singer Emma Pask will visit the rural city for this year’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
gallery
pop-up gallery
Benalla Art Gallery to close for redevelopment
TEMPORARY CLOSURE: The Benalla Art Gallery will close on 28 September before undergoing a signifcant redevelopment.
PHOTO: Rene Martens
Junior Reporter Club
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...
2025 OVENS & KING FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
BONNIE DOON BOMBERS
Amy Starzer (vc), Arianna Hearst, Chloe Cash, Anneliese Byrnes, Erin Brond (c), Cass Turner, Bec Watson, Shannon Cameron, Jess Armstrong, Cassie McCormack, Anna Manning, Cobie McCormack.
Coach: Michelle Tanner
Best on court trophy: Arianna Hearst (Bonnie Doon)
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
Rodrigo Arguello, Riley Bacon, Cy Banks, Patrick Bren, Sam Buckley, Darcy Chellew, Joseph Crawley, Alexander Dalbosco, Samuel Dalbosco (c), Michael Elliott, Joe Gray, Joshua Hudghton, Harry Jamieson, Kieren Jamieson, Reuben Jamieson, James Love, Luke Quirk, William Shem, Cooper Thomason, Tyler Thomason, Cooper Thomson.
BRIGHT MOUNTAIN MEN
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Of which nationality was Hans Christian Andersen (6)
7 What do we call a runaway (8)
8 Name one’s brother’s son (6)
9 What is commercial trade also called (8)
11 To have sent a teleprinter message, is to have done what (7)
13 What might we call a lover (7)
15 So-called means what (7)
17 To be getting closer, is to be doing what (7)
20 Name an alternative term for weirdness (8)
23 Which term describes lowly (6)
24 Name the scurf that forms on the scalp (8)
25 To spread out, is to do what (6)
DOWN
1 What do we call a mentor (4)
2 Name an atoll in the Northern Pacific (6)
3 What is an evil habit (4)
4 To be obtuse, is to be what (5)
5 Name a renowned seaport in south-western Italy (6)
6 What is a prolonged endeavour to overcome resistance (5)
9 What is a guiding signal (6)
12 Name a city in NE Texas (6)
14 What is another term for ethnic (6)
16 To refrain from recognising, is to do what (6)
18 To ooze out, is to do what (5)
19 To be poor, is to be what (5)
21 Name the monetary unit of South Africa (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 ARCANUM
(a) An arched, roofed-in gallery
(b) A mountainous district in Greece (c) A secret
2 BRACT
(a) A leaflike part
10 To be unusual, is to be what (7)
Letters have a number value
22 To examine closely, is to do what (4)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
(b) A large, coarse fern
(c) A salty flavour
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:
Bring together again (7) Doctrine (5) Encourage (5) Fish (3) Of the cornea (7)
Removed water (5) Small amount (3)
Standard (abb) (3) Technician (abb) (3) Units (Non-SI): pressure (5)
SOLUTIONS SUDOKU
QUICK THINK
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FLY fishing course, full day course covers the basics of fly fishing, including equipment, casting tuition, fly selection and streamcraft, to be held on Sunday, October 12, 10am4pm at the Log Cabin, 28 Chisholm Street, Wangaratta, cost $70 includes lunch.
To book your place contact 0427 756 665.
1 BEDROOM UNIT AVAILABLE, fully contained, located near Wangaratta Showgrounds, Real estate references required. Phone 0428 217 493 for enquiries and more information.
BOX Trailer, well built, $350. Ph 0439 766 211.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt service.
Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
DJ and CL Collison Concrete and Kurb, all concrete works, residential and commerical, free quotes. Call Dave 0457 155 564.
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Household Rubbish - Green WasteFurniture - Garage Cleanouts - Mowing. Fast, reliable service for all your clean-up needs! No job too big or small. Call 0474 107 631.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
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Maintenance and Grounds School Services Officer (FTE .6 ongoing).
Do you enjoy variety in your work? Do you like being outdoors? Then Borinya is for you!
Borinya WCP are looking for a dedicated maintenance and grounds person to join our team.
Borinya WCP is a specialist school setting inspired by the Catholic story, that offers young people in years 7-12, an opportunity to re-engage with their education.
For further details on how to apply and position description please visit the school website: www.borinya.catholic.edu.au/news/#jobs OR email ksaunders@borinya.catholic.edu.au
Borinya WCP embrace diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply. We are committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children.
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 ongoing positions: Deputy Principal – Faith and Identity Mathematics and/or Religious Education Teacher (Years 7 - 9)
We also have the following fixed term positions available: Accounts Payable Officer Traineeships (multiple positions available)
Applications close on Wednesday, September 17 at 12pm. For further details on how to apply please visit our website https://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. inclusion of all children.
Galen Catholic College embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
STONHAM
Rachael and Jordan are proud to announce the safe arrival of their beautiful baby girl
Sabrina Kaitlyn
Classifieds
CRAVEN, Celia Maria.
22/5/1968 - 10/9/2025
Passed away peacefully in Wangaratta surrounded by her loving family. Aged 57 years.
Dearly loved wife of Simon. Loved mother of Kodi and Sienna. Cherished Nana of Ayla. So dearly loved, so dearly missed.
ROBERTS (nee Bagshaw), Janette Morton.
7/7/1940 – 10/9/2025
Devoted wife of Mark Roberts (dec). Loved mother and mother-in-law of Sally and Ken, Alison and Paul. Adored ‘Gug’ of Daniel, Ailish, John, Felix, George and Niamh. Forever in our hearts.
CRAVEN
A Requiem Mass for the repose of Celia’s soul will be held at Our Lady’s Catholic Church, Corner of White Street and Murdoch Road, Wangaratta on Thursday, September 18, 2025 commencing at 1.30pm. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of prayers for interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
ROBERTS
A funeral service to celebrate the life of Janette Roberts will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, September 19, 2025 commencing at 2pm. Janette’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
A private family burial will be held in Lucindale, S.A.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
A funeral experience... not just a funeral service
Mason Park Funerals
Kim Michelini
Wangaratta Chronicle photographer Mark Bongers made his way down to the O&K grand final day on Satuday. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
Jacinta Larkings
Sally Wood
Jenna Mcintyre
Amy Primerano
Jas Shanley
Tayla Allen
Abbey Forrest
GRAND FINAL REVIEWS
Ovens and King FNL grand final day hailed a smashing success
The 2025 Ovens and King Football Netball League grand final day was one of the better events in recent years, according the punters and organisers.
More than 4000 eager sports fans came through the gates at WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday to witness five netball and two football grand finals, played in glorious sunshine with just a hint of wind. The day kicked off with the 15 and under netball decider
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
between Bonnie Doon and Benalla All Blacks, with the Bombers going back-to-back with a 57-29 win.
Moyhu took to the court against Bonnie Doon in the 17 and under premiership match, but again the Bombers prevailed, with Sadie Brakels named best on court
in the 47-34 result.
In B reserve, Benalla All Blacks completed their fairytale resurgence by just four goals over Bonnie Doon.
After not having a B reserve squad last year, the Panthers saluted with a 37-33 win.
It was a grudge match in the B grade, with Milawa fronting up against Bonnie Doon just a year after their last grand final meeting.
Ultimately, Bonnie Doon proved too good, claiming
the flag 46-35.
Over on the footy field, Bright claimed their second reserves flag in three years with a 7.10 (52) to 4.3 (27) win over Bonnie Doon.
OKFNL operations manager Daniel Saville said the day was a tremendous success for the league and the wider sporting community.
“Overall I think it was a really good day for the league,” he said.
“We had seven clubs rep-
resented on the day, and despite only having three take home the premiership cups, there were plenty of storylines to follow, and some fairytale wins for a few different teams.
“The crowd was above average, between 4000-4500, gate takings are up on previous years.
“The weather played into our hands, it was a beautiful day for sport – light winds, sun out, it’s great for every-
body, so it ended up being a really good day.
“The catering clubs do a great job on grand final day - I know King Valley had to do a trip or two back into the supermarket to restock, which is always a good sign.”
The league wishes to thank the Rural City of Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers Football Netball Club, and all clubs, volunteers, supporters and players who helped make the day what it was.
VICTORIOUS: Bright picked up their second reserves flag in three years over Bonnie Doon.
PHOTOS: Marc Bongers
GRAND FINAL REVIEWS
WELL REWARDED: Arianna Hearst was named best on court after putting together a scintillating match on the biggest stage.
Bombers go back-to-back in A grade
A mere year after claiming their maiden O&K A grade flag, Bonnie Doon have done it once again, summitting the mountain to be named premiers.
After finishing the home and away season in fifth, the Bombers produced a stunning finals campaign, securing their second title in a row with a 53-50 win over Whorouly. With the calibre of players on court, it would come down to error mitigation, and poise, in deciding which team would emerge triumphant.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
It was the Bombers who would take the early lead, capitalising on their rebounds and putting the goals through to take a narrow lead at quarter time.
Whorouly continued to have trouble penetrating Bonnie Doon’s defensive structure, with the Bombers not allowing any quick balls through.
The margin was out to five
goals at the major break, the Bombers leading the Lions 29-24.
Whorouly kept fighting hard, and produced some consistent runs of goals to eat into the margin, but Bonnie Doon would always find away to keep them at a manageable distance.
As time ticked down, Whorouly made some brilliant attempts to tie the game up, but Bonnie Doon’s defensive pressure and calmheadedness under the post was too much to overcome, with the Bombers’ dynamic
Hearst named best on court.
Bonnie Doon coach Michelle Tanner said her team’s composure held them in good stead.
“The girls and the team we’ve built this year, they’re pretty good,” he said.
“I was very confident coming into it, I did think we would be okay and I don’t normally say that, but I was confident.
“I’d say there are a couple who had real steady heads –Annie Byrnes is our centre and Amy Starzer down there,
they’re just very calm and they control the game.
“I think putting Arianna [Hearst] out into wing attack for a little bit brought a bit of speed that we needed, so that was good.
“Amy’s just so good, she’s rock solid under the post, nothing fazes her, she just pops them in.
“I wouldn’t say it was finals experience, because the rest of them don’t have a lot, so it was the steady heads who helped a lot.”
Whorouly coach Kelly Cousins said while the end
result was unfortunate, the season the Lions had put together was incredible.
“I’m absolutely proud of them, they didn’t give up - we had quite a few surges in that last quarter, we just weren’t able to convert on those ones,” she said.
“We probably didn’t have the start we wanted to, that first half, we were off the mark a little bit, but we managed to reel that in.
“I’m really proud of how our program’s running, and the culture we’re developing among the group.”
FULL EXTENSION: Amy Starzer leaps to get on the end of the pass.
BUILDING: Katie Ivone takes the ball just outside the shooting ring.
COUNTER ATTACK: Ebony Allen brings the ball back out from the Whorouly defensive end.
THAT WINNING FEELING: Erin Brond is all smiles after the final siren sounded.
ONE-TWO PASS: Jess Armstrong and Anneleise Byrnes sync up to drive the Bombers closer to goal.
PHOTOS: Marc Bongers
Arianna
GRAND FINAL REVIEWS
Third time’s the charm
For the first time since 2004, Bright are Ovens and King senior premiers after 15-point win over Greta
By NATHAN DE VRIES
After all the heartache and agony which comes with coming up short in recent years, Bright have finally done it – the senior premiership cup is heading back up the mountain.
In their third consecutive trip to the big dance, Bright emerged triumphant, knocking off old foes Greta by 16 points, 11.7 (73) to 8.9 (57) to claim their first senior flag since 2004.
The two teams had traded blows throughout the home and away season, with Bright saluting in the pair’s most recent qualifying final clash, but tensions were high going into the match.
It was a nervy start from the Mountain Men when Josh Hudghton won the centre clearance, but kicked it towards the wrong end, resulting in a goal to Greta’s Frazer Judd in the opening seconds. Greta would hold all of the momentum through the first term, peppering the goals for minor scores before slotting two goals in the dying minutes of the opening stanza. Bright started to work into the game, booting the next four to catch the lead with eight minutes left in the second.
Pat Bren and Cooper Thomason were the damage dealers for Bright, with Bren booting two in a minute to kickstart the resurgence.
The Blues hit back and the match was evenly poised at half-time, with Bright heading into the rooms with a three-point margin.
After half-time, the match turned into a true stalemate, with every goal kicked at one end answered in kind at the other.
The Mountain Men were electric with their ball movement, but Greta had some tricks up their sleeve, utilising their run and slick skills to keep Bright on their toes.
With Bright up by three at the final change of ends, the players had to dig deep, and momentum started to turn against the Blues.
The Mountain Men gained the ascendancy and took the game on, rebounding well off half-back and putting Greta’s defence under nearconstant pressure.
As the clock ticked down, the siren sounded, and for Bright’s players, volunteers and supporters, there was no sweeter sound.
Coach Michael Quirk said it cane with an immense pride to deliver the club their first senior success in 21 years.
“It’s a huge relief, really,” he said.
“It’s pretty special, after the last couple of years.
“All the work the committee, supporters and sponsors have done over that period, and the heartache, it just mends it for a while.”
After the rocky start to the
match, Quirk praised his players’ ability to work back into the game mentally and on the scoreboard.
“It’s been a long season, we knew that we were going to be challenged throughout the day, we didn’t get off to the best first quarter, but to our credit we worked ourselves back into it,” he said.
“We knew we could, we proved that, but they had to dig deep.
“We were pretty keen, we knew our fitness was pretty important, and I thought that definitely helped towards the end of the game.
“At half-time, we spoke about going more man on man, being more disciplined and not allowing Greta to run on, and I think that worked in a way.
“As the game progressed, we were fit enough to get over the top and start using
the ball a bit better.”
Cooper Thomason was named best on ground, his five goals bringing his season tally to 116.
“He’s a very good player, he’s not just a full forward, he can play in the midfield, he can play anywhere,” Quirk said.
“We know if we can get the ball forward enough and get as many look at it, he can kick a lot of goals.”
The senior success capped off a day of glory for
THAT WINNING FEELING: The Bright bench and reserve team flood the field after the final siren.
GOLDEN BOOT: Cooper Thomason kicked five goals in a best on ground performance.
CAUGHT: Lachie Kennett lays a goalsaving tackle on Luke Quirk.
DRILLED: Cy Banks lowers his eyes going inside forward 50.
CHAMPIONS: Bright coach Michael Quirk and captain Sam Dalbosco raise the premiership cup in triumph.
PHOTOS: Marc Bongers
For Greta, Frazer Judd kicked three goals, James McClounan finished with two, while Mark Wettern and Jack Kelly were impactful in parts.
Bright on the footy field, with the reserves team taking out the premiership 7.10 (52) over Bonnie Doon 4.3 (27), with Bright’s Marcus Kinthari named best on ground.
■ From back page
Coach Jason Heatley said it was a terrific final to be part of, and praised his entire list for the victory.
“Myrtleford are a terrific side, really well-coached, we knew they were going to come and that was their time,” he said.
“To be fair, I thought we repelled really well under some adversity, but we got the job done.
“The free-flowing scoring probably wasn’t what we were looking for – that was as quick as I’ve seen the ball move end to end all year.
“You just had two really good sides going at it, the brakes were going to be put on at some stage, but we just hung in there for longer and were able to get the game on our terms and impact the scoreboard.
“They had some good players around the footy, [Simon] Curtis going in there was an inspired decision, but we only needed to wrest aside a couple of times and hit the scoreboard.”
Xavier Laverty finished with four goals in a best on ground effort, supported across the park by Chris Knowles, Michael Bordignon, and Jackson Clarke.
Heatley said it was a full-team effort.
“I thought Knowlsey [Chris Knowles] was unbelievable in the middle against a couple of big boys in there - he’s done it all year, he’s just outstanding,” He said.
“We’ve been doing lots of different bodies of work, we needed to get that midfield group connected and healthy.
“We have [Daniel] Sharrock back in there, [Alex] Federico not carrying as much of the load, getting [Tyler] Norton through there, and [Hunter] Gottschling through there, and [Jackson] Clarke at different times.
Wangaratta is the first senior team to make the grand final from fifth placed since the 2003 season.
The result sets up a mouth-watering grand final 48 years in the making, up against the old enemy Wangaratta Rovers in Sunday’s de-
“To have those guys fit and healthy and running on top of the ground, it makes an enormous difference.”
cider at Lavington Sports Ground, their first meeting in a grand final since 1977.
In other grades, it was heartbreak in the thirds when the minor premiers Rovers were denied a place in the grand final by Lavington, defeated 5.4 (34) to the Panthers 5.6 (36).
WANGARATTA: Xavier Laverty, Chris Knowles, Michael Bordignon, Cameron Barrett, Jackson Clarke, Jett Roberts.
PRESSURE RELEASE: Alex Federico fires off the handball on his knees.
PASSING OPTION: Jackson Clarke looks for a target going forward.
BELOW THE KNEES: Xavier Laverty works at ground level.
OVER THE TOP: Aiden Tilley fires off a looping handball.
BIG MAN BATTLE: Chris Knowles and Myrtleford’s Toby Cossor fight it out in the ruck.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
4000 people enjoyed the brilliant sunshine to witness the biggest day of the season, with seven scintillating Ovens and King Football Netball Leagues played at WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday.
Bright’s senior football team (pictured above) claimed their first flag in 21 years over reigning premiers
The Mountain Men had gone without success since 2004, but broke through to glory in their third consecutive grand final appearance.
It was also a momentous day on the netball court, where Bonnie Doon’s A grade side (pictured left) completed a phenomenal finals
After qualifying for the finals in fifth, the Bombers surged early and maintained their lead to defeat Whorouly 53-50. Full match coverage, and results from every grade inside, together with lift-out posters.
DERBY DECIDER
Magpies hold off determined
There’s nothing quite like the magic of a preliminary final. Wangaratta Magpies won through to their fifth senior grand final in seven years in an electric final at Birallee Park on Sunday in one of the best games of Ovens and Murray footy this season.
The Magpies managed to stand tall and come up with the goods
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
Saints to book in a grand final showdown with Rovers
when it mattered, running out winners 15.8 (98) to Myrtleford’s 12.11 (83).
With a spot in the grand final on the cards, and with two talented
teams lining up on each other, the match was a guaranteed scorcher.
It was a shoot-out early, with both midfields feeding their forwards efficiently, with nine goals kicked for the opening term.
There was just a kick in it at quarter time, with the Magpies ahead, and they used their trademark pressure and stoppage
work to gain the upper hand, denying Myrtleford access to their preferred run and carry game style.
The Magpies piled on four goals to the Saints’ one in the second term, opening up a 24-point rift by the long break.
As the match resumed, Wangaratta continued to heap the pres-
sure on, with their midfield crew rising to the challenge, led by big Chris Knowles in the ruck.
The Magpies led by 35 points at the final change of end, and although the Saints threw everything at the wall to try and force a comeback, Wangaratta’s composure and the siren won out.
■ Continued page 19
PHOTOS: Marc Bongers