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SOUNDING THE CALL WANGARATTA High School students Stephanie Grant (clarinet), Xavier Zachariou (trombone) and Sam Brooker (trumpet) hope fellow woodwind and brass musicians will take advantage of the chance to participate in the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues’ community project this year. As the festival returns to a live format in 2022, locals will be able to take part in three workshops with Melbourne band Horns of Leroy - the first of them on April 9 - and then hit the stage with the band during the October festival. For more information, visit the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues website.  Story page 2. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling

Jazz & blues live No online N li ffestival i l this hi year as entertainers i prepare to wow audiences di iin person again i LIVE music is back back, and organisers of the 2022 Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues couldn’t be more excited. There will be a true sense of celebration in the rural city later this year when the event returns to a live format, following its cancellation in 2019 to ensure the ongoing viability of the festival, and two subsequent years impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

The 2020 festival was an entirely virtual event, while last year organisers were only able to stage the National Jazz Awards online. With planning well in hand to return to a live event this October, locals

are being encouraged to hear more about what’s in store during a festival launch at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre next Friday, April 8. The launch will kick off at 7.30pm with official proceedings, followed by a performance from Melbourne’s Horns of Leroy, a New Orleans-style brass band, then drinks and canapes. The event is free, with

those attending asked to RSVP via email to businessmanager@wangarattajazz. com. “We will launch some elements of the program and make some early announcements about this year’s event,” the festival’s general manager, Leanne Mulcahy, said. “This is a great opportunity to hold an event and let people know the festival is on and happening, and to

acknowledge the Wangaratta community’s role in the festival.” Ms Mulcahy said there had been considerable public interest in whether the event would return to a live presentation this year, and organisers were excited, and feeling “relief and cautious optimism”, as they looked forward to releasing details about the approaching festival with the community.

“We are very fortunate to have got through the last two years and to be in the position to deliver this year’s event,” she said. “The COVID years have been very tough for artists, so we were pleased we were able to run the jazz awards, which gave them the opportunity during those bleak times to be recognised for what they do. ■ Continued page 2

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Live jazz & blues returns

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BROAD APPEAL: Melbourne’s Horns of Leroy, one of Australia’s premier brass bands, will perform at the launch of the 2022 Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues on Friday, April 8 at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

From page 1 “In the second year (2021) especially, when the focus was on piano, we had amazing feedback from the finalists, who said it was just terrific to have something to focus on. “We couldn’t be more excited about going back to a live event this year.” Ms Mulcahy said this year’s festival program would centre on Australian performers.

“There is so much talent here; a lot of Australian artists are internationallyacclaimed artists in their own right, so we really want to celebrate that,” she said. She said support from the Rural City of Wangaratta, the Federal Government’s RISE (Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand) Fund, Festivals Australia, Creative Victoria, and Visit Victoria was integral to the staging of the event.

The festival will be held on the weekend starting Friday, October 28, with this year’s National Jazz Awards set to feature the guitar. • The launch of the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, April 8 from 7.30pm is open to the public; to RSVP, email businessmanager@ wangarattajazz.com.

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START SPREADING THE NEWS: WHS students Stephanie Grant (clarinet), Xavier Zachariou (trombone) and Sam Brooker (trumpet) strike a chord over the coming jazz and blues festival. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Callout to horn players A CALL has been sounded to horn players from throughout the region, to take part in a community event in conjunction with this year’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues. In a similar vein to the festival’s 2017 project - which offered local musicians the chance to play alongside Australian rock band Spiderbait - those involved in this year’s initiative will learn and play with Melbourne-based New Orleans-style group Horns of Leroy at the 2022 festival. An ‘army of musicians’ of all ages and abilities is needed for the project, which will see them take part in a series of workshops with Horns of Leroy, before a public performance on the Sunday of the festival in October. For that show, the local musicians will congregate at the top of Merriwa Park and march

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

through the market stalls and crowd to the main stage in Wangaratta’s popular sunken gardens, where they will perform two songs with Horns of Leroy and acclaimed singer Thando. Those who play woodwind, brass and percussion instruments are invited to take part; instruments just need to be portable and unamplified, and musicians able to play them. Scott Solimo, the festival’s coartistic director, said organisers were excited about the project. “We want to try and get the community involved, and encourage local musicians, and it was proven in 2017 that an op-

portunity like this is really wellreceived,” he said. “If there is anyone out there who would like to be part of it, they can register on the festival website (https://wangarattajazz. com). “We want to get people up and going, and excited that the festival is back and live.” Horns of Leroy has earned a reputation for delivering raucous shows featuring insatiable energy - inspired by the sounds of New Orleans, and fused with the energy of Melbourne’s streets. The group has performed hundreds of shows on stages from the MCG to Splendour in the Grass, from Dark Mofo to the hallowed Hamer Hall and Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Its grand sounds have been heard nationally and on a variety of platforms; they achieved

broader success courtesy of a cover of the famous Victoria Bitter jingle, a viral cover of Justin Bieber’s ‘Sorry’, and television appearances on The Project and Big Music Quiz. Recognised as one of Australia’s premier brass bands, Horns of Leroy has shared the stage with the likes of Peking Duk, The Black Sorrows, Vika and Linda Bull, Angus Stone, Kate Ceberano and the Rockwiz Orchestra. The first of the three workshops planned in the lead-up to the festival will be held on Saturday, April 9 at the Wangaratta High School performing arts centre in Edwards Street. Further sessions will be held on July 16, and on October 29 (the day before the performance). For more information, visit the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues website.

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Increase in emergency demand has hospital on Code Yellow NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) has entered an organisation–wide Code Yellow, in the face of increasing emergency department (ED) demand in recent days. As the hospital continues to battle staff shortages amid increased demand for emergency treatment, the decision was made to implement the emergency Code

Yellow on Monday. According to a NHW spokesperson, staff, hospital contractors and local GPs would all be expected to play a part in responding to the spike in emergency treatment demand, with specialty wards to be repurposed for urgent care patients where possible in an effort to reduce ED delays. Acting chief executive of-

ficer Robyn Gillis said with more than 50 staff sick and unable to work on Thursday, it was important community members remained patient and respectful when visiting the ED. “We are seeing increases in ED presentations, hospital admissions and emergency surgeries,” she said. “For context, we usually have around 80 people pre-

sent to the ED in a day – over the past week there have been multiple days where there have been upwards of 100 presentations. “We are also seeing a higher rate of those ED presentations requiring admission to the hospital. “We are incredibly grateful to our teams of healthcare workers here at NHW.” Albury Wodonga Health

and Goulburn Valley Health have both reported a spike in demand within their respective emergency departments. A NHW spokesperson confirmed the spike had not been caused by COVID–positive community members, with the hospital instead reporting an increase in urgent care patients who had delayed treatment during

Gold extraction plan a bone of contention

By STEVE KELLY

A COUNCIL approved application to process ore for the extraction of gold at a Murmungee property is likely to head to the Victoria Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Objectors stormed out of Tuesday night’s ordinary council meeting at Carboor, later saying they will take the matter to VCAT, after a notice of decision was moved in favour of the application by the majority of councillors. Applicants propose to extract ore from the earth at a site several kilometres away from the plant near Stanley and process it on land at Murmungee, with the aim to find gold. Council’s report states that the process involves no chemicals and uses water as the only input, however, there were 17 objectors to the permit citing potential environmental impacts on waterways, ground water, dust and noise. It’s proposed that 50 tonnes of ore will be processed per week with use of human labour and machinery between the hours of 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 4pm on Saturdays. A neighbour who lives directly opposite the proposed plant, Susan Ryan, told the public meeting that she believes the plant has

EUREKA: The ore processing plant is proposed for a 1600-metre-square parcel of land (in red) at Murmungee. been operational for more than 12 months without a permit. Ms Ryan said although she is very friendly with the applicants she believes the proper environmental impact studies have not been carried out. “There was excessive water use and even though it was alleged to be recycled, the end tailings (separating the valuable from invaluable fractions) have to use fresh water and the (Burgoigee) creek goes through my property, as does the reserve,” she said. “I’m just totally opposed to it as many of my neighbours are and it should not be there but rather somewhere else in

an industrial estate. “I will fight tooth and nail and go to court over this because I feel very passionate about it.” Public gallery member Paul Ferguson made several points at the meeting in that the application pertained to land in a zoned farming area, was located opposite a natural reserve and within close proximity to the Burgoigee Creek. He said the council report and recommendation does not properly reconcile that justification of running that operation in that zone and sensitive area. Council director of development services, Stephen Swart, said a farming zone allows council to consider

other uses than farming. “We have to consider what the impact of other uses will be on farming, and it will only be a small part of the land impacted 1600 square metres, along with dust and noise,” he said. “The other impacts are on waterways and we depend on our referral authorities to give us advice and no objections were raised by the authorities, subject to conditions.” Cr Jack Herry was one of two councillors to not support the application and he spoke about several reasons such as environmental impacts which he believed there was not a full understating about. “I personally would like

to see a bit more of an environmental impact assessment before writing off on this one,” Cr Herry said. “Our council officers have done their best due diligence within their planning department skills to assess those environmental risks, but without a more thorough environmental assessment there are a number of unknowns.” Cr Harry Bussell, who moved the motion to grant the application, told the gallery that he appreciated their concern. However, he added that after speaking extensively with the operator and planning department he was “very happy” to support the permit.

'HOLYHULQJ IRU RXU FRPPXQLWLHV As your Independent Federal member for Indi, I work for you, not party bosses. On the floor of Parliament I vote for Indi 100% of the time. And I deliver for Indi. Since being elected I have held the Government to account, delivering a Bill for a federal integrity commission, working for renewable energy projects that would create local jobs and bring down power prices, and fought for local health care. I have delivered 9 mobile phone towers for Indi, $120 million in bushfire recovery funding and more than $10 million in economy-boosting infrastructure projects. But there's more to do. I'm fighting for investment in regional hospitals, faster and more reliable mobile and internet coverage and better access to mental health care.

3URXGO\ ΖQGHSHQGHQW www.helenhaines.org Authorised by Helen Haines 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677

Wodonga / 79 High St. 02 6024 6284 Wangaratta / 117 Murphy St. 03 5721 7077 helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au

COVID–enforced restrictions. Despite the implementation of Code Yellow, community members who require urgent medical assistance are still encouraged to present to NHW’s ED. Anyone experiencing a medical condition that is not an emergency is urged to visit a GP or call Nurse– On–Call on 1300 60 60 24.

Chronicle cover price increasing FROM next week, the Wangaratta Chronicle’s cover price for Monday, Wednesday and Friday‘s edition will increase to $1.50 including GST. It has been nearly four years since The Chronicle’s cover prices last increased. During this time there has been a significant increase in the costs associated with producing The Chronicle, especially steep increases in paper experienced last year. The $1.50 cover charge brings The Chronicle’s cover charge in line or below other local newspapers in the region. Discounted home delivery and digital subscription options are available, including a special introductory home delivery deal for three editions for just $3 a week (see page 24). To take up this special offer contact The Chronicle on 5723 0100. Digital subscriptions start from just $2.50 a week and can be arranged by visiting wangarattachronicle.com.au/subscriptions. We take this opportunity to thank our readers, contributors and advertisers for their ongoing support.

Fatal collision at rail crossing POLICE are treating a fatality early on Wednesday morning as non–suspicious, following the death of a woman near the Shanley Street rail crossing. Sergeant Brian McCormick said the fatality, which involved a goods train travelling southbound at approximately 4am, had subsequently seen rail crossings at Shanley Street and Sandford Road closed for up to four hours. A replacement driver was said to have travelled from Melbourne to complete the train‘s journey.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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Garry Nash & Co. gives generously BY BELINDA HARRISON bharrison@ nemedia.com.au

THE Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund recently awarded 11 grants to deserving community organisations and non-profits across Wangaratta. Local organisations are set to benefit in more than $14,000 worth of funding from Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund this autumn following a recent grant round supporting local charitable projects and community organisations. The funding will support projects including children’s cultural activities for Indigenous children in out of home care, a driving lesson program for culturally and linguistically diverse women, and new fire-fighting equipment for the Everton CFA volunteers - just to name some of the successful grant recipients. The grants were made possible thanks to generous donations from Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate directors, clients and staff who are working to build their community fund to support important causes across Wangaratta for the long term. Commenting on the grants, Marion Nash from the fund’s advisory committee said that they were pleased to offer this support across the community and for these important projects. “Our funding process had so many great projects submitted, it

PROUD TO GIVE: Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund’s Advisory Committee had a tough choice during the recent grant round. Pictured are Marion Nash, Mike Noble and Garry Nash. PHOTO: Belinda Harrison was a difficult choice for our committee,” Marion said. “What is clear, is there is a lot of good work going on in Wangaratta and lots of areas which need more financial support. “We encourage other local businesses to get in touch if they are thinking about giving local.” The Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund was set up as a sub-fund

of the Into Our Hands Community Foundation in July 2021 to mark the company’s 40 years in business and to continue their longstanding history of supporting the Wangaratta and district area. Through Into Our Hands, their fund can pool local donations, offer tax deductible donation options and be supported to make grants back to the community.

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The fund’s vision is to deliver long term benefits to community needs across Wangaratta through a planned giving approach. The fund has grant programs that focus on Housing and Homelessness, Natural Disaster Relief, Health and Wellbeing and Education and seeks to make grants once a year through public calls for application.

Full list of grants awarded through the Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund:  Wangaratta Area Suicide Prevention (WASP)/Gateway Health for their community education and inform project ‘We Believe’;  Wangaratta CareVan for the purchase of food and new equipment to provide meals three times a week;  Open Door Neighbourhood House for ‘Food Pantry’ program support for vulnerable people;  Victoria Aboriginal Childcare Authority (VACCA) for cultural school holiday program for Indigenous children in out of home care;  North East Multicultural Association (NEMA) for driving lessons for local CALD women to support greater resilience and independence;  Inner wheel Wangaratta - service club for care packs for Kerferd centre clients at Northeast Health;  Wangaratta Hockey Club for their hockey participation program to attract women and girls to the sport;  Wangaratta Community Garden for new equipment and tools;  Everton Fire Brigade for two new fire hoses for fire preparedness;  Sing Australia, Wangaratta for their local community choir volunteer membership drive to attract new volunteers; and  Wangaratta Concert Band to attract new volunteers/memberships and for their band expansion project through new music. For more information on the Garry Nash & Co. Community Fund or to donate and support the fund go to https://intoourhandsfoundation.com. au/our-funds/garry-nash-co-community-fund/.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 5

Father pleads guilty to assaulting child

ART FROM THE HEART: Artist Ronan Holdsworth, Grit and Resilience Program’s Sarah Blatchford and Bek Nash-Webster welcome the community to the Grit and Resilience Art Gallery at the visitor information centre.

Art gallery with community at the heart A GALLERY space dedicated to displaying artworks created by participants in the Art is in our Heart initiative will open at the Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre today. The Grit and Resilience Art Gallery will be officially launched to the public during an opening event which starts at 5.30pm. The gallery space will exhibit community-created artworks made during a variety of workshops being held from April and June this year. Art is in our Heart is a group which has formed with the support of Rural City of Wangaratta’s Grit

and Resilience Program. The group are coordinating the free and inclusive art workshops which will be held at different locations within the Rural City of Wangaratta. “Art is in our Heart is about bringing people together through the means of art and embracing creativity within the community,” said Art is in our Heart member, Tegan Allen. “Our exhibition in the Grit and Resilience gallery will be constantly evolving and growing commencing from the launch today through until June 30, as every art piece that

is created in the workshops is displayed in the gallery.” The gallery opening will include the unveiling of an Art is in our Heart community art piece titled ‘This is Us’, created by community members from across the region. All those who attend the opening today will be able to register for the free workshops which explore various art forms and mediums including paint, clay, resin and music. The workshops support positive mental health through social connection and will be an opportunity for people who share creative interests to come together.

The opening is a free event for the Rural City of Wangaratta community and will include live music and refreshments. Community members are encouraged to come along from 5.30pm until 6.30pm for an evening of connection through artistic expression. Topics including mental illness, suicide and self-harm may be discussed at this event and if this media article or themes covered at the event cause you any distress, please phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

A FATHER who smacked his seven year old child on the leg, and caused red marks on their back and neck has been ordered to undertake 80 hours of unpaid community work. The 27-year-old Wangaratta man faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week and pleaded guilty to unlawfully assaulting his child before dropping them at school late last year. Senior Constable Liam Murdock told the court a welfare coordinator noticed the marks and in an interview with police and child protection services the victim alleged the father had caused the marks after becoming angry that morning. A subsequent interview with the accused saw him admit to hitting his child. Lawyer Nancy Battiato said her client had undergone a men’s behaviour change following the incident. Magistrate Ian Watkins said the victim had been entitled to feel safe while living with their father. “It’s excessive discipline it’s an appalling assault on an innocent child,” he said. “You need to find strategies to manage that rather than belting your child in the way you did.” The defendant was placed on an eight month community corrections order, to complete 80 hours of unpaid community work.

RSPCA closes Wangaratta op shop RSPCA Victoria has closed its op shop in Wangaratta. The store in Wills Street was officially closed after trading on Tuesday, with the RSPCA saying it was no longer financially sustainable. RSPCA Victoria retail and commerce manager, Stephanie Neil, said the RSPCA Victoria Animal Care Centre in Wangaratta will be unaffected by the op shop closure. “Our animal shelter will remain operational and available to the animals of Wangaratta and surrounds as usual,” she said.

“If you’d like to continue to support our cause, encourage your community to consider adopting their pet from RSPCA Wangaratta.” Ms Neil said although it has been a difficult decision to close the op shop, RSPCA Victoria takes its responsibility to the animals of Victoria very seriously. “We want to thank the people of Wangaratta for supporting the RSPCA op shop over the many years it has been operating,” she said. “We especially want to thank

the amazing volunteers who generously gave their time to run the op shop - you have made a real difference to animals in need and we are very grateful. “As a charity that relies on community support to fund our vital work, we know that we have a responsibility to ensure everything we do is financially sustainable and is ultimately in the best interests of our core mission - ending cruelty to animals. “Sadly, despite the incredible support of many volunteers and community members over the

years, our modelling shows us that an RSPCA op shop in Wangaratta is no longer viable.” Ms Neil said the store had also experienced significant issues with dumping at the op shop in recent times, with volunteers often having to spend copious amounts of time sifting through rubbish that isn’t in a state to be sold on. “The impacts of COVID-19 have also created a shortage of volunteers, making it hard for the op shop to attract and retain people to help keep the doors open,” she said.

CLOSED: RSPCA Victoria has closed its op shop in Wills Street, saying it was no longer financially viable. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling

In 2021, Helen Haines voted with Labor and the Greens

80% of the time dii didn’t vote Labor nd In

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Authorised by Senator Jane Hume, Liberal, 223 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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FEDERAL BUDGET

Tax cuts lead way in budget ELIGIBLE low and middle income working Australians will receive a one off $420 payment, while pensioners will get $250 to offset the cost of living - two of the 2022/23 federal budget measures announced on Tuesday night. The $420 payment will be on top of the $1080 tax cut that people earning $48,001 to $90,000 can claim, a move to bring relief to household budgets. Indi incumbent Helen Haines welcomed the short term measures but did hold reservations, as the tax cuts will end after this year’s tax return period. “I welcome the measures included in this budget to alleviate cost of living pressures for people in Indi, but I am concerned that these measures are short term and don’t address rising inflation,” Dr Haines said. With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, fuel prices have skyrocketed and the budget will reduce fuel excise by half for six months, however, Dr Haines was wary about whether the savings will be passed on to consumers. “The vast majority of people in Indi will benefit from the enhanced Low and Middle Income Tax Offset, the one-off payments to pensioners and low income earners and the fuel tax re-

duction,” she said. “Now the government must ensure this reduction is passed onto consumers at the petrol pump.” Dr Haines also welcomed programs to incentivise small business investment in training and digital innovation, as well as incentives for taking on apprentices. “Housing affordability is a huge issue across Indi. And while saving for a deposit is one part of the problem, we know there is a desperate need for measures to increase the supply of affordable housing,” Dr Haines said. Dr Haines celebrated the investment of $84 million in community microgrid projects in regional and rural Australia. “I have been strongly advocating for locally-owned renewable energy projects throughout this term of Parliament,” she said. “This investment is welcome, but it’s nowhere near what is needed. “Indi has led the way in community energy, and feasibility studies into microgrids in towns such as Wodonga, Corryong and Yackandandah are already under way.” Dr Haines said the government had failed to invest in hospitals in regional Australia, while limited invest-

EMBRACE: Prime Minister Scott Morrison hugs Treasurer Josh Frydenberg after he handed down his fourth budget in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) ment in some areas of the health workforce were a welcome first step. “There is no transformational investment in rural hospitals or workforce,” Dr Haines said. The number of Commonwealth Supported Places for medical students at rural university campuses will increase by 80, following increased investment in the budget. “We know young people

who grow up in the regions, who want to become doctors and serve their communities, want to get their education closer to home,” she said. “That is why I am calling for an extra 30 places for medical students to be funded at La Trobe University in Wodonga as part of the Murray Darling Medical School Network. “These budgeted places are a welcome inclusion,

and I will work with our local universities to make sure some of these places are at campuses in Indi.” The government announced more than $500 million in additional mental health funding, which Dr Haines welcomed. “Everywhere I go in Indi, people talk to me about how desperate the need is for more mental health support,” Dr Haines said. “There are good measures

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in this budget, but more action is needed to increase the number of mental health professionals in regional Australia, and to assist those living with eating disorders.” The budget would make no difference on the long waiting list for home care packages in Indi, Dr Haines said. “This budget has no new home care packages and no investment in regional aged care infrastructure,” Dr Haines said. Indi will benefit from increased funding for regional mobile coverage, Dr Haines said, after the government announced $811 million to extend the Mobile Black Spot and Regional Connectivity Programs for another five years. “Indi is the most successful electorate in Victoria under the Mobile Black Spot program since I was elected,” Dr Haines said. “By working with the community to advocate effectively, we have had significant success in fixing mobile black spots. I will continue this work to ensure Indi gets the funding we need to fix remaining mobile black spots in our region.” Dr Haines revealed there was once again no funding or jobs allocated for the government’s Commonwealth Integrity Commission.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 7

FEDERAL BUDGET

Labor’s plan to help regional first-home buyers

Budget hopes for Wangaratta

AN Albanese Labor Government will create the Regional First Home Buyer Support Scheme to help 10,000 Australian families a year in regional areas like Indi buy their first home according to ALP Indi candidate Nadia David (pictured). Ms David said she believes the scheme will be a gamechanger for people trying to buy their first home in North East Victoria. “This triples the number of places that Australians living in regional areas received last year under the current First Home Loan Deposit scheme,” she said. “It is harder to buy a house today than ever before. “Last year, regional house prices jumped by 26 per cent on average and in some areas, like Bright, much more. “Given the massive increase in housing costs in country areas, home buyers in regional areas like Indi need and deserve their own dedicated scheme to support them to buy a home. “This is a way for people to own their own home without putting upward pressure on housing prices by providing cash grants.” Ms David said to be eligible for the scheme, applicants need to have lived in the community for at least the previous 12 months and a housing price cap of $500,000 will apply to Indi. “This is about helping people

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

RURAL City of Wangaratta council is holding out hope that funding will still be distributed to regional Victorian councils despite claims by Regional Cities Victoria (RCV) that the 2022/23 budget lacks spending in the state. RCV chair Kim O’Keeffe said the lack of investment in regional Victoria in the budget is “disappointing”. “After an incredibly challenging two years, investment in regional Victoria is critical to help our local economies rebuild and recover,” Ms O’Keeffe, said. “Particularly as more and more people move to the regions, we need government investment to help us grow, and be great places to live, work, and visit. “We welcome the government’s funding for transport, community infrastructure, and digital connectivity, which will support jobs and enhance liveability across regional Australia - but, most of these will benefit regions in other states, not regional Victoria.”

FUNDING TO ACCESS: Wangaratta council CEO Brendan McGrath holds hopes for the rural city when they see the finer detail on programs funded in the 2022/23 federal budget. Wangaratta council chief executive officer Brendan McGrath said they always welcome the Federal Government investing in regional infrastructure and this seems to be a focus of this federal budget. “Rural City of Wangaratta is optimistic that this will include funding specifically for Local Government priorities,” Mr McGrath said. “With a strong emphasis on strengthening the regions, and job creation in manufacturing and other areas relevant to our region, Rural City of Wangaratta believes there will be opportunities to benefit our resi-

dents, but will wait to see the detail of the programs supporting funding announcement and look to benefit from these funding streams.” Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas also highlighted this week that Victoria has been short-changed in the budget. “We’ll get six per cent of new infrastructure spending, despite the fact that we’re about 26 per cent of the nation’s population and economy,” he told 3AW radio. “It’s increasingly apparent that the Commonwealth are short-changing Victorians for purely political agendas and it’s a disgrace.”

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who earn less than $125,000 for singles and $200,000 for couples to buy their own home without having to save for a 20 per cent deposit and potentially be slogged with mortgage insurance if they can’t,” she said. “The Morrison Government’s own review of National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation called for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme to be expanded in the regions last year. “The Regional First Home Buyer Support Scheme will help first home buyers get into a house sooner with a deposit of just five per cent without the need to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance, saving locals thousands of dollars. “This is possible because the government will guarantee up to 15 per cent of the value of the property.” To access the scheme, locals will apply through an eligible bank or loan provider and be approved under the standard loan assessment criteria for their capacity to service the mortgage. “Obviously, housing prices are changing all the time so an Albanese Labor Government will also review and update the price caps on a six-monthly basis and review the allocation of unused guarantees to regions that need more support,” Ms David said.

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Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Jazz and blues to blow trumpet again THERE will be nothing but positive notes played and sung as the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues returns to the live stage this year after three years travelling a rocky road. Live music will return following its cancellation in 2019 and two subsequent years when it was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions with no live audiences attending performances. The festival has been the very fabric of the music scene in Wangaratta on the Melbourne Cup weekend attracting performers from across the world and patrons from all over Australia. People won’t have to wait until October though, with the launch of the festival set for next Friday. The launch will kick off at 7.30pm with official proceedings, followed by a performance from Melbourne’s Horns of Leroy, a New Orleans-style brass band, then drinks and canapes. The event is free, with those attending asked to RSVP via email to businessmanager@wangarattajazz.com. It will feature key information about this year’s event including some early announcements. It has certainly been a tough time for all professional artists in the music, acting and entertainment industry, including industries linked to live events. That’s why it’s extra important for locals and visitors to the region to support the return of the festival to Wangaratta venues. The attraction of people to the rural city is the life blood of many industries and the events such as the jazz and blues festival provide immediate nourishment to our local businesses and economy.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

5 Work unit 6 Observes 7 Mend 8 Stalk 13 Full 14 Transmitting 16 Foretell 17 Sprinkle with mud 19 Escape artfully 20 Disencumber 24 Cause to appear small 26 Was ahead 28 Reddish-brown 30 Tall supports 33 Analyse a sentence 34 Exploits 35 Rodents 36 Nobleman 39 Strong alkaline solution SOLUTION S C T U R E U E A R I S D E S E P E N L D R E S I T O N M E R G R I C H E R L E

R A K E R E N V E R G E N R T E R S L I E L U D D E D D E P A E A L E R S R Y L E V E

B E L I T T L E S E E S

R V E P P A R I E R D I S C T T I L A T S

S R T E S M P A L T T E D R E E E D S

ACROSS 3 Garden tools 9 Soup dish 10 Turn back 11 Rod of a bishop 12 Emanated 15 Sudden convulsion 18 Army quitter 21 Tear 22 Writing implements 23 Generous 25 Deceived 27 Dwelt 29 Catalogue 31 Weight 32 Painted carefully 35 Coalesce 37 Garb 38 Watchful 40 Fruit 41 Reviewed unsparingly 42 Riverside embankment DOWN 1 Place 2 Pleasure voyage 3 Inverted 4 Concerning

FACEBOOK users this week commented on a Wangaratta man who attended the rural city’s police station intent on providing a witness statement for another matter last year facing a $500 ﬁne, after he was found in possession of cannabis. Josh Thomas: And they wonder why stuff all people come in to do witness statements. Peter Mac: Josh Thomas maybe don’t go

• •

in to a police station with cannabis?? Ruby Jenkins: Stupid dog Caroline Aylward: Legalization is the answer Facebook users also commented on the nameing of a local firefighting training facility renamed as a tribute to local CFA legend Mick Daws, who’s passing in December sent shockwaves through the local firefighting community.

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Morry Suffield: Very fitting Halena Louise: So sad, love to u Tania & yr family Tania White: Anne Willett he is missed by many, he really loved the CFA and it is a beautiful tribute indeed. X Robert Rosicka: Tragic loss for the community he was well liked , so sad to hear . Glenn Daws: A great award Mick Natalie Williams: A fitting tribute

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Melissa Jody: Thats a lovely tribute to mick Emma Williamson: What a wonderful tribute Facebook users also Like the commented on Springhurst Wangaratta winning both the junior and Chronicle senior aggregate awards at the Volunteer Fire Bri- Facebook gades Victoria competition page to have your say. in Mooroopna. Steve Phillips: Well Our likes total is done, I actually managed to see a couple of the runs in betweeen commitments at the Urban track.

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12,330

Have your say in Wangaratta Chronicle poll

Visit our website to vote at www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Council should walk their own talk

Do you think you’ll be better off under the newly announced Federal Budget?

IT is with disbelief that not only I but several neighbours are not complying with vegetation encroaching to the edge of the footpath. The notice I have received from the asset officer giving me 28 days to return the footpath to a safe condition which I find rather amusing as the obstruction would be nothing but lawn edging Being a life long resident in Wangaratta l have taken pride in my house and garden which extends to the footpath and beyond. If it is the concern of council to be rid of hazards then they need to focus on real issues as in potholes, cracked curbing, and guttering to name a few. Kerri Bailey, Wangaratta

Overhanging vegetation not the greatest danger in street GREAT to hear that path inspections are being carried out by Wangaratta Council as we would not have known but for a notice of non-compliance received in the mail alerting us of a safety hazard on the footpath, namely some vegetation encroaching the path at our property. Quite frankly, if there was a significant hazard on our street it would be the light post which is just off centre cemented into the footpath which restricts everything but the skinniest object from passing. We have resided here for many years and the street is a no-through road, subsequently we never have foot traffic and if in future someone does feel like going for a walk, a gentle brush with some leaves would be better than slamming into a light post. Zenon (Tik) Hertik, Wangaratta

Rail underpass a backward step THE ARTC promises two dozen new car parks on the Gray Street side of the Wangaratta station. Paltry compensation for abolishing two, well used pedestrian bridges, both with terrific views. The emphasis on car parking in PR statements is a good example of corporate managers and council leaders not comprehending the core community objection - which is the persistent issue of pedestrian convenience and safety. Perhaps if I use a car metaphor the message

HAPPY FAMILIES: Some members of the Wangaratta Kennel and Dog Obedience Club dropped down to their grounds at the rear of the showgrounds earlier this week to announce $50,000 funding they had gratefully received from the Bushfire Recovery Victoria - Community Facilities Grants Program. Naturally, a few of their pets came along including this delightful family of King Charles Cavaliers owned by Marion Gray who were more than happy to pose for the camera. The story will appear in Monday’s Chronicle. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling might get through. Imagine in the RCOW we had (the dreamed about) two vehicle bridges over the Ovens River. Then along comes a corporation proposing to demolish both bridges with the intent of directing all traffic travelling north by driving south on Greta Road until meeting the Hume Freeway. The ensuing uproar would be deafening right? Imagine motorists being inconvenienced like that. A century ago Wangaratta was much smaller than it is today. Despite the then small population size, town planners had the foresight to erect two pedestrian bridges at the station. Replacing two bridge options with one underpass (no matter how pretty the mural art on the concrete walls) does not amount to progress. It is a diminishment of our CBD. However, it may well be the cheapest option for the ARTC. Are we as a town, going to swallow the propaganda printed in recent Chronicle editions that the proposed design for the underpass tunnel has been warmly received by the public? If readers (and fellow walkers) would like to communicate their thoughts on our historic station’s future, you still have time to contact our federal and state political representatives. Cassandra Pollock, Wangaratta

POLL RESULTS COUNCIL PAY RAISE Do you think the increase in remuneration for Victorian councillors is justified?

4 27 voyteessteto noon

Yes

rday

THIS WEEK Do you think you’ll be better off under the newly announced Federal Budget?

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.

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

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Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 9

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What is happening in Wangaratta? OUR base hospital - now known as Northeast Health Wangaratta - appears not to have received much funding in recent years by the standard of the place when I walked through recently. Many top positions for medical and nursing staff have been turned over of late and at the moment none of the longstanding physicians’ contracts have been renewed the older physicians have given more than 60 years service to our community. This means they are no longer able to care for the people of Wangaratta unless those folk have private health cover. I believe the hospital has found some part time staff physicians supplemented by locums, and many of the procedures are now done in peripheral hospitals. I believe the staff have been misled by administration, telling them that they have retired. Wangaratta has now lost many senior dedicated people over the last few years and the population is being looked after medically by locums, who aren’t as familiar with the community, or the history of the patients. I wonder what supervision training doctors are receiving. I find the whole situation a disgrace and I am glad I am no longer a practicing GP who felt great support from these experienced people. There is an insufficient number of surgeons also and I wonder about their future. The nursing staff are wonderful but the general morale and communication in the hospital is very poor. I am concerned about the future of our hospital. Bronwyn Pearse (retired GP), Wangaratta

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Wangaratta Chronicle sought a response from Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) to the concerns raised in Dr Bronwyn Pearse’s letter and we publish Northeast Health Wangaratta’s reply in full below.

NHW’s new model ensures quality, safety QUALITY and safety is NHW’s top priority. Our new model of care ensures that. We are now able to provide our community with better access to highly skilled physicians under a new model which was recently introduced. Through this new model - which employs full-time staff specialists, we are now able to provide increased training and supervision - ensuring our staff are constantly upskilling and able to deliver the best care to the community. Outpatients have access to physicians in our Outpatients Clinic and there are plans to expand this. The new model has also seen an increase to the types of procedures that can be performed locally. We thank all previous and existing medical professionals for their contribution to providing safe, quality care across the Hume region. The $22.9 million redevelopment of the Wangaratta Hospital is well under way and will ensure the community can access the high-quality and safe care they need, closer to home. The government’s investment will deliver a 12-bed critical care unit, an eight-bed short stay unit, a new paediatric ward and additional medical beds to create two 20-bed medical units. Northeast Health Wangaratta

There are votes and there are votes I WOULD like to clarify the figures bandied about in the stories of Indi MP Helen Haines’ voting record recently in your paper. Helen claims to have supported the government on 48 per cent of the voted legislation presented to parliament. This is true. The Liberal Senator Jane Hume says Helen has cast 80 per cent of her votes in the parliament against the government. This is also, on the surface, true. The difference, of course, is in the words “legislation” and “votes”. The Liberal figures include the ag motions introduced by the government to suppress parliamentary debate. And Helen voted 95 per cent against them - as you would hope that an MP concerned with holding a government to account would do. This is another example of Liberal trickery. As Helen herself has said, she votes 100 per cent for Indi, 100 per cent to support a well functioning democracy, 100 per cent for evidence-based policy, and 100 per cent for integrity. Can Senator Hume and the Liberals claim the same record? Peter Leonard, Wangaratta

Peace at last for a dog treated so cruelly I WROTE to The Chronicle recently about my concern for pets who are at the mercy of their owners. The beautiful dog I fought so hard to save passed away on Tuesday. I saw you take your last breath and now you are at peace.

Now there is no more sadness or cruelty and I will meet you at the Rainbow Bridge and look after you with all my love and heart. Goodbye my sweet girl. Shame on the authorities for not taking me seriously. I will not let you be forgotten for the way you were treated. Maree Parkinson, Wangaratta

Question of support in a hung parliament WITH a federal election looming, the voters of Indi need to know who Helen Haines (current Indi incumbent) will support if we end up with a hung parliament. Helen’s total voting record in 2021 (according to the Australian Parliament House website) shows she voted with Labor/Greens 80 per cent of the time and the government 20 per cent of the time. Her voting record in 2022 was even higher than the 80 per cent. If re-elected, will this voting support for Labor continue? Pat Chick, Wangaratta

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post

Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 11

Wangaratta to host Hollywood for new Mad Dog movie SOME of Hollywood’s biggest stars will visit Wangaratta next year when the rural city plays host to a production company planning to film the story of notorious bushranger Daniel “Mad Dog” Morgan. Fox and Hound Studios made the announcement today; its latest feature film slated for release on the 50th anniversary of the 1976 film Mad Dog Morgan, which starred the late Dennis Hopper in the title role. Oscar nominee Kodi SmitMcPhee has already signed on to play the bushranger in his youth as a stockman,

while Chris Hemsworth is touted but yet to confirm whether he will play the character in later years when on the run through the King Valley region. A studio representative said in an effort to ensure the film’s visual authenticity, sites in Peechelba, Eldorado, Mount Typo and Moyhu have all been scouted for the production, with the Greta Cemetery and Vine Hotel both earmarked to feature. Daniel Morgan, known to be an expert bushman and horseman, had a long criminal career before being shot

and killed after holding up Peechelba Station in 1865. He roamed the region with accomplices “Flash Clarke” and “German Bill” and was described to police as being “35 years of age, six feet high with long black curly hair and a bushy beard and moustache”. North East Media will support the production, helping to recruit more than 60 local actors for support and extras roles during 12 weeks of shooting which begins in April, 2023. Expressions of interest from the public are invited

and can be registered from April 1 at the Wangaratta Chronicle office. The studio is looking for actors to play roles including Daniel’s long-time girlfriend, Eileen Dover, pub landlady Patty O’Dawes and renowned Myrrhee cattleman, Ivor Biggun. While Australian actor Jack Thompson who starred in the 1976 film will not be reprising his original role, he will make a cameo appearance as prospector Ron “Grimace” McDonald who had his nuggets stolen in Murphy Street.

STAR TURN: Thor and Avengers star Chris Hemsworth may play bushranger Daniel Morgan in the new movie being filmed in Wangaratta.

HISTORICAL EPIC: The new movie will tell the story of notorious bushranger Daniel “Mad Dog” Morgan. Image courtesy Alamy

Story shared of First Nations sports legends

SPORTING GREATS: Black Cockatoo tells the story of Johnny Mullagh and Australia’s first international cricket team and it comes to Wangaratta next week. PHOTO: Christan Trinder

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A PLAY inspired by the true story of legendary First Nations cricketer Johnny Mullagh and Australia’s first ever international sporting team comes to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre next week. Black Cockatoo is a new artistic collaboration between iconic Australian writer Geoffrey Atherden (Mother and Son) and former Sydney Festival artistic director Wesley Enoch (Black Diggers). It tells the story of the 13 brave Aboriginal men from Western Victoria who picked up their cricket bats and embarked on a treacherous voyage to England 150 years ago - all in the name of sport. Risking illness and persecution, Australia’s first international cricket team - including Australia’s first Indigenous sporting hero, Unaarramin, known as Johnny Mullagh - amazed the English crowds with their astonishing talent, personality and grit.

They should have returned to Australia as celebrated heroes but instead they came back to find the world they once knew was no longer there. Director Wesley Enoch said visiting the community of Harrow and talking to descendants of the First XI was a huge honour. “These men of the First XI, who travelled across the globe to be the first ever international touring sporting group in the world, opened a path not just for themselves and their families but established a story of sport and Aboriginal advancement that would continue for the next 150 years,” he said. It’s described as not just a story about cricket, but of strength, resistance, hope and possibility. Funny and incredibly moving, Black Cockatoo will be performed on Tuesday, April 5 at 7.30pm and tickets are available now at www.wpacc.com. au.

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NATIONAL NEWS

AFP to protect 3000 election candidates AUSTRALIAN Federal Police will be in charge of protecting around 3000 candidates during the upcoming federal election campaign. The federal policing body has set up a dedicated task force, named Operation Wilmot, to respond to security threats levelled against parliamentarians and candidates ahead of the national poll. The AFP is working with the electoral commission to

provide security advice to candidates and have stood up a police co-ordination centre for the campaign period that candidates can access to get information directly. Assistant commissioner of the specialist protective command Fiona Drennan says it is important the AFP is aware of any threats so it has the opportunity to conduct robust assessments to determine what security is necessary.

“We’ve been through our security protection and diplomatic liaison teams that are around the capital cities, and we’ve been engaging with the electoral officers and staff and members and senators directly,” she told a Senate committee on Thursday. “If we are advised of activities, then we will use our processes to assess their security and we’ll provide that advice back, so parliamentarians and

candidates can go to the events with the assurance of the security.” ACT Labor MP Andrew Leigh was granted a personal protection order after threats were made against him. Senator Kristina Keneally and Western Australian MP Madeleine King have also faced threats, while Ged Kearney recently had her office in Victoria vandalised. Three people have been

charged in the past 18 months with threatening to cause harm to a Commonwealth official, one has been prosecuted for using the postal service to make threats to kill while five have been charged for using a carriage service to menace or harass. Two further matters remain under investigation. Prime Minister Scott Morrison is widely expected to call the election mid-next week.

GOODBYE DAD: Shane Warne’s children Summer, Brooke and Jackson paid tribute to their dad in front of a MCG crowd.

Asked whether he would make the call by the end of the weekend, he told Perth radio 6PR: “No, I mean, we’ve got work to do. We’re getting the budget through this week and we’ll be ... very enthusiastically letting Australians know about what’s in that budget.” The last pre-election budget in 2019 was followed by millions of dollars in government advertising to explain key measures. -AAP

(James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

Rockstar farewell for Warnie at the MCG

A SHOWMAN in life and death, Shane Warne has been remembered as a cricket legend, loveable larrikin and devoted dad at a state memorial in Melbourne. About 55,000 people flocked to the MCG for Wednesday’s service after the spin king’s death, at age 52, from a suspected heart attack in Thailand on March 4. In a touching speech, Keith Warne led tributes and described his son’s death as the “darkest day in our family’s life”. “Mate, your mother and I can’t imagine a life without you. You have been taken too soon and our

hearts are broken,” he said. Warne’s father spoke of his son’s community work after Victoria’s devastating and deadly 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, and using his unsuspecting younger brother, Jason, to hone his love for outwitting opponents. Warne’s children - Jackson, Summer and Brooke - unveiled the renamed Great Southern Stand as the Shane Warne Stand after each delivered emotional speeches. Summer Warne, his youngest daughter, said she and her father shared an impromptu dance to Bryan Adams’ Summer of ‘69 two days

before his death, when he came to collect a travel bag. As well as cherishing the lighter moments, she said her father helped her cope during difficult times. “You told me that I could either live with these demons or fight with them and come out stronger at the end. You saved me, dad. You truly did,” Brooke said. His wildlife conservation work with the United Nations was also revealed, with the intergovernmental body announcing a set of new grants to be named in Warne’s honour.

‘No absolute truth’ on carbon credit units CLEAN Energy Regulator chair David Parker has conceded there is “no absolute truth” when figuring out how much should be paid to businesses for reducing net emissions by various methods. “There is room for reasonable people to disagree about that, and there is no absolute truth here,” he told senators on Thursday. Mr Parker acknowledged recent accusations by former insider Professor Andrew Macintosh, who has published a serious of academic papers that found carbon credit arrangements are “environmental and taxpayer fraud”.

“He’s taken a different view and we have engaged with him substantially about that over a long period of time,” Mr Parker said at a senate estimates hearing. Professor Macintosh has called for an inquiry into the key mechanism the government is using to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Mr Parker said it would take time to work through the research papers issued last week by the professor, but insisted checks and balances are built into the system. Making sure abatement isn’t wrongly credited is at the heart of many disagreements,

he said. “We welcome scrutiny because we’re confident in our work.” But offset issues are “inherently complicated” and the modelling and statistical analysis is very complex, he said. “The difficulty for us as human beings is that we can’t predict the future precisely.” The legislation has a socalled “additionality requirement”, which is intended to ensure that activities earning Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) to reduce emissions or sequester carbon would not have happened in the normal course of events. -AAP

Musician Elton John followed a minute’s silence with a pre-recorded version of Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me. “It’s a sad day today but it’s not in some ways because his legacy lives on,” the singer said. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin sang a remote rendition of Yellow, while singer Robbie Williams performed a stirring in-studio version of Angels. Australian actor Hugh Jackman added his voice to the chorus of a virtual tributes, saying Warne made the most of every second in his 52 years.

“Man, he sucked the marrow out of life. There was no one like you, Warnie, and never will be again,” he said. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese were in attendance, while Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews could not attend after contracting COVID-19. Others at the MCG, the site of Warne’s hat-trick in 1994 and 700th Test wicket in 2006, included former Australian captain Allan Border, ex-English skipper Nasser Hussain and West Indian great Brian Lara. -AAP

February job vacancies balloon to 423,500 DEMAND for workers continues to run hot, backing this week’s federal budget predictions for the jobless rate to fall below four per cent this year. The Australian Bureau of Statistics said there were 423,500 job vacancies in February, 6.9 per cent higher than in November and around 200,000 more than was recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic. “Job vacancies continued to reach new record highs through the pandemic,” ABS head of labour statistics Bjorn Jarvis said. “The high number of vacancies shows the strong de-

mand for workers across the economy, as businesses are responding to disruptions to operations, together with labour shortages across the economy.” This week’s budget and the Reserve Bank of Australia’s most recent forecasts point to the unemployment rate hitting 3.75 per cent this year, a level not seen since the early 1970s. The jobless rate sits at four per cent, its lowest level in 14 years. The ABS also released building approvals figures which showed a massive increase in February, rebound-

ing after the disruptions caused by the Omicron variant outbreak. Total building approvals soared 43.5 per cent in February to 18,675 after slumping 27.1 per cent in January. “The large rise in the total number of dwellings approved in February was recorded across all dwelling types,” ABS director off construction statistics Daniel Rossi said. Approvals for private sector housing rose 16.5 per cent to 10,240, while the more volatile ‘dwellings excluding houses’ category leapt 78.3 per cent to 7183. -AAP

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 13

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Free help for workers who have a disability

THE Victorian Disability Worker Commission has launched a new campaign encouraging people to make contact if there are concerns about a disability worker’s behaviour or quality of work. People with disability, their families and carers might feel nervous about raising a concern, however, the commission has a skilled and friendly team to assist callers. The service is free, confidential and available to everyone. Victorian Disability Worker Commissioner Dan Stubbs said that no matter how big or small a concern might be, if something doesn’t feel right about a disability worker, the commission’s team can listen to the concerns and act if required. “As we hear the stories being told at the Royal Commission into abuse and neglect of people with disability, we are reminded how critical it is to protect vulnerable people from harm and neglect by stopping people who pose a serious risk of harm from providing disability services,” Mr Stubbs said. “I know most disability workers are highly committed and provide excellent care to people with disability. “However, we know there are times when people will have concerns and even when

 Victorian Disability Worker Commissioner Dan Stubbs. people with disability can be harmed. “So if you have any concerns about a disability worker, our team is here to listen, help and guide you as we understand it can be difficult to take the step of contacting us. “It’s important that people with disability feel safe with their disability worker and sharing a concern or making a complaint can help improve the standard of disability workers and quality of care for everyone. We will work with you or your advocate on the outcome you’d like to achieve.” The commission’s team can

deal with complaints about any disability worker in Victoria, regardless of how they are funded or how the disability worker is employed. All Victorian disability workers are required to comply with the commission’s code of conduct and registered workers must meet set standards for safety, skills and professionalism. The safeguards are part of the government’s zero-tolerance approach to neglect and abuse of people with disability, developed in response to recommendations of the Victorian Parliament’s 2016 Inquiry into Abuse in Disability Services.

The commission team can be contacted about a concern or complaint by calling 1800 497 132 between 9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, meet face to face or post to Level 20, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, via the website vdwc.vic.gov.au/complaints, through in-language interpreters and via the National Relay Service 1300 555 727 or SMS 0423 677 767. In addition, the commission runs regular information sessions. To find out more visit the website vdwc.vic.gov.au or email education@vdwc.vic.gov. au.

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Phone calls from prison breach court order A WANGARATTA man who repeatedly breached an intervention order while serving a 12 month prison term last year could well be released on a corrections order in the near future. The defendant, in his late 30s, appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates Court via video link from Hopkins Correctional Centre on Monday, when police detailed some 20 phone calls from a prison phone to a protected person between September and October last year. Police also detailed the defendant’s involvement in two burglaries late last year, at Murdoch Road and Smith Street respectively, soon after his release from a 12 month prison sentence for similar theft and burglary offences. Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client had been unaware his calls had been in breach of an interim family violence order during his period of incarceration, believing the matter would be confirmed before the courts. Mr Clancy said his client’s calls had been “done persistently over an extended period”, but at no point had the conversations been threatening in nature. However, Magistrate Ian Watkins bemoaned the defendant’s disregard for the court order. “She’s got an order, what else does she need?” he said. “He keeps breaching.” A previous sentence handed down by Mr Watkins in April last year had included an opportunity for parole after six months of incarceration, in an effort to provide social supports upon his release. However, after failing to qualify for parole, Mr Clancy said his client’s condition had spiralled upon his release from custody. “He quickly reverted back to his former habits of drug use,” he said. “He got out and it all fell apart fairly quickly there’s a deterioration.” Mr Watkins ordered the defendant be assessed for a community corrections order upon his release, however, admitted that with 27 pages of prior charges, the defendant “didn’t have a happy history”. The matter is set to return to court on April 11.

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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Tarra church sold, but it will remain a chapel

By SIMONE KERWIN

A TARRAWINGEE church auctioned on the weekend will remain as a private chapel, after being purchased by an Eldorado family for $534,000. St Stephen’s Catholic Church, located on the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road, was purchased by Lachlan and Melanie Buchan, who are hoping to restore the 130-year-old building to its original state. “I’ve been driving past the church for 28 years and admiring it, and Mel too, for most of her life,” Lachlan said. “One of our favourite memories of it was attending midnight Mass there a few years ago.” The family also purchased the original pews to ensure they remain with the building, plan to retain and maintain the 1920s-style front fence, and are in discussion with the Rural City of Wangaratta about their future plans for the property, which comes with a heritage overlay. Garry Nash from selling agent Garry Nash & Co said bidding for the church was frenetic during Saturday’s auction, which attracted more than 130 people. “About 28 people were viewing the auction online, and there were two online bidders, and a good, competitive auction on-site; there was a lot of interest from all over Australia,” Mr Nash said. “From a vendor bid of $375,000, there were 34 bids to the sale price of $534,000. “It was a very positive result for the parish.”

SAYING GOODBYE: Sandhurst Diocese Bishop Shane Mackinlay with the congregation at the local parish’s farewell Mass conducted at Tarrawingee’s St Stephen’s Catholic Church on March 12. PHOTO: Courtesy Sandpiper STRONG INTEREST: The auction of Tarrawingee’s St Stephen’s Catholic Church attracted a large crowd on Saturday. PHOTO: Courtesy Buchan family NEW OWNERS: St Stephen’s Church at Tarrawingee was auctioned on the weekend. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling St Patrick’s parish (of which St Stephen’s was part) chose to sell the church due to the cost of maintenance and insurance, and held a farewell Mass on March 12, with Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst Bish-

op Shane Mackinlay presiding. The parish’s pastoral leader, Fr Nathan Verallo, said funds from the sale of the church would be invested back into the parish. Meanwhile, the Buchan family is

interested to hear from anyone who may have photographs and records of the church which they could refer to as they plan its restoration. If you can help, contact Lachlan Buchan on 0439 688 999.

Esports Cup comes to Wangaratta Library GLOBAL gaming phenomenon esports is coming to town with the Wangaratta Library to host the Australian Esports League Wangaratta Cup in April. The Rural City of Wangaratta is pleased to announce leading esports provider Australian Esports League (AEL) will be hosting the tournament on Saturday, April 30. The 2022 Australian Esports League Wangaratta Cup will offer gamers the chance to compete and win prizes across some exciting esports games. The event will feature two of the most popular games - Super Smash

Bros and Rocket League - both of which cater to all levels of players as well as being family friendly. Selected matches will be streamed with live commentary for global audiences to view. Council manager arts culture and events Simone Nolan said participants could look forward to a fantastic opportunity to take part in the global esports phenomenon here in Wangaratta as part of the Australian Esports League Wangaratta Cup. “This initiative is supported by our tourism and major events unit and the Wangaratta Youth Council, who are excited to provide an online

platform for young people to safely stay connected,” she said. “This event is an incredible opportunity for young people in Wangaratta to show their gaming skills and spend time with their friends. “Esports is a growing industry and it is important that young people in Wangaratta have the opportunities to grow their skills and participate in a field that has so much potential.” The event is running as part of “FReeZA”, a Victorian Government initiative, that supports young Victorians to get involved in their community by planning and running drug, smoke and alcohol-free music and cultural

events for other young people. Australian Esports League chief executive officer Darren Kwan said the organisation is excited to be partnering with council to deliver the event. “It is so important for people within the community to be able to connect, especially now, and esports is the ideal platform to help facilitate these connections,” he said. “Rocket League and Super Smash Bros are two games that are fun no matter the skill level and I hope all young people sign up for the chance to compete.” Registration for the event can be made at www.ael.org.au.

Resident wins ‘U Can Cry - Project 365’ tickets RURAL City of Wangaratta’s Grit and Resilience (G&R) Program Team has completed their latest Heartbeat tour, taking the program on a road trip around the region. The tour focused on bringing community together to share news about the program and discover ways to get involved. Community members were also given the chance to go in the draw to win two tickets to see the band ‘U Can Cry’ at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre this May. In partnership with Peter Rourke of Project 365, the G&R Team earlier this month drew the lucky winner. “We were thrilled when Eric Bittner was drawn as the winner of the two tickets to see the band ‘U Can Cry’ at their opening show on May 7,” program coordinator Bek-Nash Webster said. The Grit and Resilience Program have been working with Project 365 and the band U Can Cry since their inception in 2021, supporting them on their journey to raise awareness of mental health issues and bring people together through a love of music. “We have always been huge supporters of Project 365 and the message of hope and unity that they bring to the Wangaratta community,” she said. “They perfectly represent what the Grit and Resilience Program is all about and we are so excited to present Eric with two tickets to the opening show which is now sold out.” Following huge public support, U Can Cry announced a second show on Sunday, May 8. Tickets are available at https://www.wpacc.com. au/Whats-On. If this media article causes you any distress, phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 15

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. FACEBOOK users this week commented on our web poll, which asked “Do you think the increase in remuneration for Victorian councillors is justified?” Julie Braden: To all the councillors who actually work for the community and have integrity, reject the offer on behalf of the Wangaratta and District communities who have been dealing with the difficulties of job losses, restrictions and loss of freedoms over the last 2 years. Your increase is a slap in the face to the ratepayers.

•

Cat Johansen: Aren’t we in a local crisis where every retail and hospitality shop is advertising on their windows for employees and on last check there were 742 jobs vacant in Wangaratta? And aren’t all caravan parks full and homelessness and mental health issues at rock bottom? Didn’t the PM of NZ state that herself and other government employees would be taking a pay cut to support their citizens during the current economic and health crisis? Why would an increase in remuneration for VIC councillors be justified

in this local and statewide crisis? Is the local media here playing devils advocate? How do you want local people to feel and respond? Is NE Media travelling well economically as a business in this crisis? Are you starting to feel unsupported as well? Your polls suggest so….. Robyn Laskovas: No not at this time when pay rises are not happening.Not a good look. Leslie Matthews: The current mayor, Councillor Rees, presents a good argument as to why the people of the community should

•

elect the Mayor directly. The suggestion from him that a higher pay rate will attract a better standard of councillor is nonsense. Where is his evidence to support this? His other suggestion that there should be more councillors with a business background also shows where his priorities are and it’s not with the people in the community. Charles Branstom: Perhaps the Mayor and his crew should wander down to Apex Park any night of the week to see for themselves how the Homeless are going.

•

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TWITTER users this week tweeted about last week’s family violence prevention event, the King Valley Balloon Festival, and the immortalisation of Wangaratta in song.

Hot air balloons take flight from Brown Brothers Milawa Airfield on March 26, 2022 in Wangaratta, #Australia. The King Valley Balloon Fiesta runs from March 25 to 27, and this year’s event feature Special Shape is a 33mtall three-toed sloth called Tico.

Jeanette findlay @jeanettefindla What a great night in Wangaratta..thanks @ ClementineFord, @Utopiana and @carlyfindlay. Thanks… Ross Cooper @RossCooper3 Walking the dog this morning, I saw a fleet of hot air balloons invading Wangaratta from the King Valley. No sign of Dutton’s various forces anywhere. Good things those who wait

come

Anthony O’Donnell @AnthonyODonne13 I’m sure Nick Cave goes to sleep with Captain Matchbox’s “My Wahanee from Wangaratta” ringng in his ears.

jschona Follow Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.

If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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Ariels roll into town this weekend By SIMONE KERWIN

SHOWCASING CLASSIC BIKES, AND THE REGION: Local Kathy Dobson with a couple of Ariel motorcycles. The British-built bikes will be showcased this weekend, along with the North East region’s scenery, during the 28th annual Australian Ariel Register rally. The event includes a chance for the public to see the motorcycles up close during a static display in Apex Park on Saturday morning. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling

MORE than 60 Ariel motorcycles from across Australia will make their way to Wangaratta this weekend for the 28th annual Australian Ariel Register rally. Local volunteers Kathy Dobson and Kevin Hammond said the event was held in a different location each year. While it was to be staged in Wangaratta in 2021, it was shifted to Queensland due to Victoria’s COVID-19 restrictions, so there is great anticipation among organisers and members for this weekend’s visit to the rural city. Sixty-five of the British-built motorcycles will be part of the event, bringing with them around 100 people to soak up Wangaratta and surrounds over the four days of the rally. Riders will take part in a ‘shakedown’ ride on Friday afternoon, which is designed to blow the cob-

webs from the bikes on their arrival, and will leave from Apex Park and travel to Eldorado. On Saturday, there will be a display of bikes at Apex Park from 8.30am to 9.30am, with the motorcycles to be arranged in order of vintage and the public encouraged to come and take a look and chat to owners. From 9.30am, entrants will leave Apex Park for a ride to Lake William Hovell, travelling through the centre of Wangaratta at about 3pm on their return, for those keen to watch them move through in the afternoon. Sunday morning will see them head to Beechworth, where they will be part of a static display before continuing their ride to Stanley, and then on to Ovens and Myrtleford before enjoying lunch in Whorouly. They’ll stop at Oxley, and then head back to Wangaratta via Oxley Flats Road. Kathy said the rally would be a great opportunity to showcase the region to visitors, who are expected

to travel from as far afield as Western Australia, Tasmania and Queensland, and for locals to see the Ariels in action, and up close during Saturday morning’s display in Wangaratta. “It’s such a beautiful place to ride bikes in North East Victoria, and I’m looking forward to showing people the wonders of it,” she said. “We want people to come to Wangaratta and enjoy this rally and see the many places there are to see. “The rallies are always so much fun; it’s like having a family Christmas every year - with your rally family.” Kevin will be among the riders taking part in the rally, and he’s also eagerly awaiting the chance to hit the road as part of the group. The annual rally aims to get as many Ariel motorcycles on the road as possible, and bikes entered for the Wangaratta event range from those built in the early 1920s through to the late 1960s.

Adrienne Doig to host free youth workshop YOUNG local artists will have the opportunity to learn from visiting artist Adrienne Doig when the Benalla Art Gallery hosts a free workshop this Sunday. The Wangaratta-raised artist, who recently featured on ABC’s national program Art Works, will guide participants as they create an artworks focusing on their life experiences. They will use found materials and collage - exploring

reusing and recycling - to further personalise their art. “Drawing on aspects of contemporary culture, selfies, social media and the concept that the personal is political, the workshop will encourage participants to create a self-portrait that explores everyday experiences in the context of wider issues,” Ms Doig said. Participants are welcome to bring unfinished projects, old or recycled items to work

on, which could include old clothes, scrap fabric and recycled items. Adrienne Doig is known for her distinctive self-portraiture which tackles the everyday with good humour and wit. In the exhibition ‘It’s All About Me!’ she uses a variety of media, including embroidery, applique, sculpture and video, to playfully explore intimate aspects of her life.

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SELF PORTRAIT: Young artists have the opportunity to learn from renowned practitioner Adrienne Doig (Dolled Up 2020, mixed media, variable; maximum 40cm high, courtesy of the artist and Martin Browne Contemporary).

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Sunday’s workshop runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm and is offered to participants aged 13 to 25. With limited capacity, registration is essential by calling 5760 2619 or emailing gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au. The event is supported by FReeZA, Benalla Rural City Council and Benalla Art Gallery. Doig will also present an artist talk at the gallery on Monday, April 4 at 10am.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 17

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WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Musical matinee salute to the Anzacs

BOOKS GALORE: Shop for great titles at a discount price when the Friends of Wangaratta Library holds a book sale tomorrow morning from 9.30am to 12pm. Wangaratta Library’s Sue Thiele and Tracy Peters have been preparing the books for sale, which will include a large range of second-hand adult fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. It looks like there will be something for everyone and the great thing is that all money raised will assist the library in providing ongoing programming and events. The sale will be held at the library in Docker Street. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling

AN all-star cast will present well-known music from wartime including songs by artists including Dame Vera Lynn, The Andrew Sisters, Bob Dylan, Normie Rowe and more, during a matinee show being held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention centre today. Blowin’ in the Wind is a salute to the Anzacs and the Vietnam Vets and a new production for 2022, containing hit songs, stories, and laughter that came from the battlefields, shared in front of a backdrop of incredible images on the big screen. The show will be held at 10.30am and tickets are available from the box office or at www.wpacc.com.au.

Tamworth artists perform at The Vine SEE a great lineup of artists who are on their way to Tamworth when they perform live at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta tonight. The show includes Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes, Duncan Phillips, Matt Joe Gow, Ben Mastwyk and more as part of the ticketed, indoor event. Tickets are available now at www. thevinehotel.net.au.

Visitor Information Centre will be dedicated to displaying the Art is in our Heart community created artworks made from April to June this year. Art is in our Heart is a group formed with the support of Rural City of Wangaratta’s Grit and Resilience Program, which will be coordinating a series of free and inclusive art workshops for all.

Artists in focus at Art Gallery on Ovens

BUYERS and sellers are welcome to browse the Wangaratta community market which is held every Sunday at Avian Park in Newman Street.

AN exhibition showcasing the individual artwork of 12 resident artists has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street. It will run until April 24 with one of the participating artists on duty each day the gallery is open, which

Grit and Resilience Wangaratta gallery launch community market THE Grit and Resilience Art Gallery will officially launch to the public with a free community opening event being held today at 5.30pm. The gallery space at the Wangaratta

There will be a huge range of stalls showcasing plants, handmade items, second-hand goods, hats, moccasins, fruit and veg, tools, bric-a-brac and much more.

includes Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm.

Tonality at the Wangaratta Art Gallery AN exhibition which brings together a selection of significant contemporary works from the Wangaratta Art Gallery and the Rural City of Wangaratta collections is being held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. It shines a spotlight on the rich and expertly curated collection

established over the past 40 years with a diverse group of artists from across the nation represented. See it until April 14 in Gallery One at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

Beechworth Farmers’ Market THE next Beechworth Farmers’ Market will be held tomorrow morning from 8am until 12pm in Church Street and specialises in a variety of fresh, local produce. Meet passionate growers and producers from the region, pick up some fresh local produce or grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls.

-RLQ RXU %RDUG RI 'LUHFWRUV PDNH D GLIIHUHQFH LQ \RXU FRPPXQLW\ We are seeking suitably skilled and community-minded people to join our Board. An award-winning not-for-profit organisation, Junction Support Services works with individuals and families to support them to achieve their full potential. To enhance our Board's expertise we are ideally seeking candidates with specific skills in one or more of the following areas: not-for-profit governance, finance and risk management, IT and social media, business growth and social entrepreneurship, real estate and housing. A voluntary role, this is an opportunity for professional development and to make a difference in your community.

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month for 3 to 4 hours during business hours to contribute to the governance, growth, strategy, purpose, financial wellbeing, and sustainability of our organisation. Directors are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, obtain a volunteer WWCC, a current Police record check and will be required to provide their Director Identification Number prior to joining the Board.

As part of our commitment to diversity, the Board strongly encourages expressions of interest from young people over 18 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Please send an expression of interest, including a cover letter and resume by 25 April to: megan.hanley@junction.org.au Find out more: Phone: Junction Support Services CEO Megan Hanley 02 6043 7400 Visit: junction.org.au

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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Join in vigil for refugees today By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

10 years ago TAKING STOCK: New Bruck Textiles chief executive officer Geoff Parker has been in Wangaratta this week after taking the reins following the departure of Alan Williamson. PHOTO: Cheryl Browne

Workforce takes two week break Friday, March 30, 2012 By SIMONE KERWIN BRUCK Textiles’ 314 employees will break today for two weeks due to a slowdown in the Wangaratta plant’s workload. Newly appointed Bruck chief executive officer Geoff Parker said the extended Easter holiday was an indication of the cyclic nature of the manufacturing industry. “We’ve got a number of customers who buy seasonally, and for all sorts of reasons, there is more of a trough than usual,” he said.

Mr Parker, who took the reins last week following the resignation of previous CEO Alan Williamson, said his new role would involve considering the plant’s workload and how it could be best managed into the future. He said he did not believe the two week Easter break - the longest at this time of year in two decades - was cause for concern. “We have a lot of new machinery going in, and a lot of new investment, including works to reduce our carbon footprint and to reduce our water consumption,” he said.

“We have a committed shareholder spending a great deal of money, and I don’t think we would be doing that if we didn’t think there was a bright future ahead for Bruck.” Mr Parker said staff had voted for the two week break, and “the majority of people were comfortable with it”. “Nobody likes to have no work, but this is a cyclic business,” he said. “It is not just at Bruck... manufacturing in general in Australia is more cyclic these days, compared to the flat work schedules of the 1970s and ‘80s.”

Wangaratta's Premier Riverside location

GOODBYE DAYLIGHT SAVINGS!

RURAL Australians for Refugees (RAR) are encouraging people to attend a vigil in Wangaratta this afternoon in the lead up to the federal election. Member Bern Fraser said local supporters are keen to continue the monthly vigils to call out the Australian government. “We’re specifically demanding the government provide 20,000 humanitarian visas for vulnerable people in Afghanistan, create

a path for permanent residence for all Afghan people in Australia on TPVs and SHEVs and bring an end to indefinite mandatory detention,” she said. “The government’s recent acceptance of New Zealand’s offer to resettle 450 refugees over three years still leaves more than 900 people in Australia, Nauru and PNG without hope or a safe home. “As The Monthly’s Rachel Withers wrote, The government’s nine-year wait to accept New Zealand’s offer of refugee resettlement is yet

another stain on Australia’s soul’. “Postcards will be available at the vigil for supporters to send to Minister for Immigration Alex Hawke. “Join us in Wangaratta to show rural people will not forget refugees and asylum seekers abandoned by the Australian government in Afghanistan, Australia, PNG and Nauru and that compassion and humanity matter.” The vigil will be held this afternoon from 4.30 to 5.30 pm, at the roundabout at 117 Murphy St, Wangaratta.

white, male, 4 years, 956000014643090, ‘Scratch’;  Medium hair, tortoiseshell and white, female, 2 years, 991003001345714, ‘Tania’;  Short hair, tabby, female, 1 year, 956000014454809, ‘Sadie’;  Short hair, black, female, 1 year, 956000014670639, ‘Nelly’;  Short hair, black and white, female, 4 months, 956000014671913, ‘Margaret’;  Short hair, grey tabby and white, female, 1 year, 956000014675237, ‘Puzzles’. Various kittens are also available.

RIDDLE ME THIS: If you have a problem you can’t solve, you need Puzzles. If you need someone to sit nearby and watch you work, you need Puzzles. If you need a constant companion, you need Puzzles. Basically, you just need Puzzles in your life. Puzzles’ microchip number is 956000014675237. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

WANGARATTA RSPCA WHEN you are looking for your next pet, make an appointment at the Wangaratta RSPCA. The shelter has many animals waiting for homes with availability changing daily. The Wangaratta RSPCA animal adoption source code is BR100934 and animal microchip numbers are below. Dogs:  Kelpie x German Shepherd, black and tan, male, 8 years, 956000006665219, ‘Rex’;  Staffordshire bull terrier, male, 6 years, 956000004751929, ‘Khan’. Cats:  Short hair, grey and

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 19

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

The Little Lorikeet on the nectar trail By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS WHEN we think of parrots, we typically conjure up an image of bright, flashy and conspicuous birds that are easily detected and observed. Perhaps one exception to this rule is the Little Lorikeet - one of the smallest species of parrots in Australia and one that is certainly more difficult to see than most. They are a bird of the eucalypt canopy, and their small size and green plumage helps them blend in with their surrounds remarkably well. A pair of these birds could be feeding in nearby trees and if not for their intermittent squirting calls, they could quite easily go unnoticed. In fact, they are most frequently seen as they flush from the foliage, usually after being chased by another bird, or as they rapidly fly overhead, again usually first noticed by their calls. Like other species of lorikeets, the Little Lorikeet is primarily a nectar-feeder, visiting flowering eucalypts

to feed on pollen and sugary nectar. They have a specially adapted brush-tipped tongue that helps them lap up their liquid diet as they clamber with great agility, often upside down, through clumps of blossom and foliage. They will also consume some fruits and foliage insects and galls, especially during the breeding season when they need to feed young in the nest. Once a bond is formed, Little Lorikeets - like most parrots pair for life. Even outside the breeding season, pairs will remain closeknit and birds will roost and forage together. At concentrations of food, especially during the nonbreeding season, flocks may form, sometimes in association with other nectar feeding species such as the similar, Purple-crowned Lorikeet and a range of smaller honeyeaters. Though they will occur in

areas where there are numbers of larger honeyeaters, such as wattlebirds and friarbirds, they tend to ‘eat around the edges’ of the main nectar source, in order to avoid competition and aggression. Little Lorikeets nest in small hollow spouts or branches of a tree, usually high above the ground, during spring and early summer. Sometimes, a tree hollow is prepared by a pair of birds at the onset of nesting, with birds excavating rotting wood from a hollow spout in order to make it an ideal nest site. In the North East, Little Lorikeets are mostly observed in forested areas where there are flowering ironbarks or box eucalypts. However, they also occur in towns where there are flowering trees along roads and in parks and gardens. When these trees are not in bloom, Little Lorikeets either feed on other sources of nectar, such as mistletoe, or move to other regions, which may be hundreds of kilometres away, forever chasing the nectar supply.

HEARD BUT RARELY SEEN: Although they are a vibrant mix of red and green, Little Lorikeets can be difficult to see in the treetops where they spend most of their time. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

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Dazzling aerial display by model planes

PRACTICE RUN: Jon York (left) navigator, and Chris Rutter, pilot, take one of the model planes through its hoops. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

WANGARATTA Aero Modellers are finally settling down to some serious model aircraft flying following a couple of years of off and on again flying due to COVID-19. Last weekend, the club hosted an International Miniature Aerobatic Club (IMAC) competition. IMAC pilots fly radio controlled scale models of fullsized aerobatic competition planes. During the competition, pilots flew a sequence of aerobatic manoeuvres with each manoeuvre being scored by the judges with

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the process repeated in a number of rounds. The pilots were ranked by the scores they accumulated during the competition, the highest point scorer being declared the winner. There are five main competition classes in which pilots can compete - basic, sportsman, intermediate, advanced and unlimited, and each class required the completion of more challenging flying routines. As part of the Wangaratta event, pilots could also compete in a special ‘Freestyle’ class.

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AERIAL SUPREMACY: Large squadron of remote controlled model planes took to the skies over Wangaratta last Friday and Saturday.

In this class, aerobatic flying is set to music and the pilots create their own flying sequences. Pilots are judged on originality, musicality and piloting skills. The result was spectacular flying which was the most popular part of the event, particularly for the spectators according to club president Jon York, who was also the event coordinator. “The model planes flown in this event were relatively large models, with wingspans of about 3m and en-

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gines of up to 220cc,” he said. “Twenty-six pilots from Victoria and New South Wales enjoyed superb Wangaratta weather during the weekend, with beautiful clear blue skies, little wind and temperatures of 28C. “It was perfect for IMAC competition.” The Wangaratta Aero Modellers flying field and facilities are located at 99 Shanley Street in the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange. The most popular days that club members fly are Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday.

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Visitors are always warmly welcome to go down and have a look and if you’d like to try your hand at flying, that can easily be arranged. For further information contact club president Jon York on 0407 229 940 or secretary Geoff Mitchell on 0407 489 185. Results: Basic: 1 Balint Banko, 2 (Yak) 5000, 3 Ricardo Bertune (EF Laser 104) 4094.9. Sportsman: 1 Harrison Ritter (Skywing Extra 300 LP) 4945.2, 2 Anthony Sisley (EF Extra 300 NG) 4916.8, 3 Cameron Sexton

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(EF Laser 104) 4835.4. Intermediate: 1 Marius Baumgartner (EF Extra 300 NG) 4961.4, 2 Robert Barbuto (AJ Laser 300) 4511.9, 3 Owen Gibbens (Krill Extra 330 LX) 4177.3. Advanced: 1 Michael Andrysik (EF Laser 104) 4911.8, 2 Steve Malcman (EF Extra NG) 4765.5, 3 Riley Sills (EF Laser 104) 4537.9. Unlimited: 1 Scott Bardney (Krill Yak 55M 220cc) 4963.2, 2 Chris Rutter (EF Extra 300). Freestyle: 1 Riley Sills (EF Extra NG), 2 Marius Baumgartner (EF Slick 540).

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 21

Still a great place to live Hamilton Park celebrates 50 Years: 1971-2021

PICTURESQUE: The Frank Wellman dam is just one of many natural features in and around Hamilton Park.

amilton Park will mark its 50th birthday this year with the release of a book detailing the estate’s people and history. The anniversary was due to be celebrated last year but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns which enabled organisers to gather up personal stories from past and current residents, and collect photos and archival material to create the Hamilton Park Celebrating 50 Years book. “We thought we could put a keepsake together for current and past residents,” Hamilton Park board member Doreen Wheeler said. The result is a 96-page book detailing the estate’s beginnings, its people, its achievements and its growth as a proud, friendly, vibrant community that shares good times and bad. Hamilton Park Estate was developed as a housing estate with a difference in the early 1970s by Doug Hamilton and his wife Barbara. They had a dream to develop a housing estate that would resemble a park with large subdivisions for substantial gardens, and houses positioned so as not to block out neighbours’ views, shared grassland and bushland and communal areas, dams to collect drainage and supply water for gardens. One hundred and fifty acres were divided into 100

PROUD COMMUNITY: Residents who have coordinated the ‘Hamilton Park Celebrating 50 Years’ book (from left) Ros Janas, Margaret Butt, Doreen Wheeler and Trish Sait. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling blocks with 50 acres of common land which offered semi-rural living close to Wangaratta and all its facilities. After a slow start the estate blocks became very popular and adjoining land was purchased from David Grant for another 20 house allotments. Property buyers were issued shares in the companies set up to manage the estate. It now operates as a cooperative, with board members volunteering from the community to organise the maintenance of the dams and water supply, the common land and the estate’s facilities. In the early years a group of interested residents formed a recreation com-

mittee which organised social activities and fundraisers to provide community facilities. They initiated a tennis club, gardening club and Thursday luncheon club. In 2001 an informal social group emerged hosting many creative and fun events. Angela Craven, Anne Hiskens and Pam Owens were some of the organisers. By 2003 they had instituted a social club as a board position led by Suzie Don Leonard. The groups were enthusiastic and hardworking organising many vibrant social occasions including family barbecues, progressive dinners, Jazz in in the Park and a Christmas barbecue which still continues today under the leadership of Tina Norton.

NATURAL ASSETS: Tree lined streets provide beauty and privacy for residents.

“While the park provided lots of happy times and memories, the people of the park have always been there for each other in both good and bad times, the support in times of grief or need has been amazing,” Suzie said. While events and functions have been integral to the community spirit of Hamilton Park, working bees, common interest groups such as the natural vegetation group provided opportunities for those living here to get involved and get to know each other. “Shared responsibility fostered a sense of community, there were and still are many well attended working bees,” resident Trish Sait said. “Over the years an active social committee has raised

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be close. ffamilies ili can b l “It is a tranquil setting with much to offer for families, both young and older. “It is wonderful to watch the little tots learn to ride their bicycles on the quiet streets, play hide and seek and climb the bushland trees, and also try their hand at catching a fish in our dams.” “Fifty years on the Hamiltons would be very proud to see how their dreams have been realised,” Margaret Butt said. Hamilton Park Celebrating 50 Years sells for $34.50 and needs to be pre-ordered at www.hamiltonpark.org. au/book. For more information visit www.hamiltonpark.org. au/celebrate or www.hamiltonpark.org.au/book or call 0437 555 083.

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funds for a tennis court, b ball ll court and a community hub with a barbecue and pizza oven which is frequently used for community get togethers.” The park with its large gardens, bushland and multiple dams attracts many native birds and the bushland walking tracks are very popular Many native plants and wildflowers have established in the bushlands and grasslands. “Hamilton Park is a wonderful place to bring up your family, being able to live in a rural setting but still have neighbours and friends live nearby,” resident Ros Janas said. “We even have several generations of the same families who live here on separate blocks, just so their

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Page 22 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022

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REGIONAL NEWS

We’ll examine health plan Labor visit buoys y hopes p of funding g for Bright g Health Precinct

By MARTIN DAVIS

FEDERAL Labor has agreed to examine the business case for development of the $40 million proposed Bright Health Precinct. The Labor Party’s Shadow Assistant Minister for Health and Ageing, Ged Kearney, toured the Bright hospital with Indi candidate Nadia David, in the company of Alpine Health chief executive officer Nick Shaw last week.

The visit allowed Ms Kearney to get a greater appreciation of the entire proposed precinct, with specific focus on the $26 million in federal funding sought to develop a new 35 bed high needs aged care facility. While Ms Kearney was not in a position to commit funding for the development then and there, ahead of the imminent federal election, she said Ms David had been

a strong advocate for the local community and the need, and that her party would examine the business case for the precinct. “The Alpine region has been let down and ignored when it comes to health and aged care funding by the Coalition,” Ms Kearney said. “Sadly, we’re seeing this trend of neglect and underinvestment in rural areas right around the country.” Ms Kearney praised the

local work force, who were “working so hard to support the community, particularly the elderly despite not having enough resources to support them”. Mr Shaw said he was appreciative of the opportunity to show Ms David and Ms Kearney the current facilities and the need for the precinct development. “The development seeks to establish health service security for the Bright

and district community, providing for the first time for the Bright community a residential care facility built to high care and ageing standards,” he said. Both federal and state government funding are yet to be secured to deliver the $40 million Bright Health Precinct, as outlined in the masterplan completed late last year. Under the plan, Bright is seeking a new 35 bed

Council on hunt for a new CEO

‘Bully birds’ a big problem BULLIES of the bird world are being targeted at a free ‘Birding up your Backyard’ event which the Myrtleford Landcare and Sustainability Group is running tomorrow (Saturday). Group spokesperson Glenda Janas is encouraging community members to attend the special gathering at 4228 Snow Road, Whorouly East from 2pm, to learn how to identify the Indian Myna bird. The species was introduced into Australia for insect control, but like many such ‘imports’ they have become a pest to native species. Ms Janas said they are an aggressive, invasive “bully” bird that attacks smaller birds like blue wrens and red robins which are becoming endangered. Saturday’s event will also inform people about using appropriate vegetation to help attract native birds into their garden. To register for the event - which has afternoon tea provided - email Ms Janas at landcaremyrtleford@gmail. com.

high care aged care facility with the potential of an additional 2 x 7 bed units to become a total of 49 aged care beds; the existing hospital and its nine acute rooms will be modernised and a new palliative care suite created; Hawthorn Village (current aged hostel facility) will be re-purposed for nurse education and health worker accommodation; and there is potential for a private medical centre to be co-located on site.

PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY: Performers in the live production replacing the chess match at Myrtleford’s La Fiera festival on May 13 to 15 are busily preparing for their play. Pictured rehearsing on Sunday night were (front, from left) Tom Byrne (Rinaldo) and David Genero (Vieri), with Kim Goodman (Jester) looking on; (back, from left) Kath Morgan (Lady of Marostica), Emlyn Connor (Oldrada) and John Costenaro (Lord of Marostica). The festival celebrates the rich Italian culture in many ways including spectacular food, wine, art and heritage displays on its glorious autumn days. La Fiera is currently seeking community minded volunteers to assist with logistics on Saturday, May 14 at La Fiera’s main event - the Food and Wine Festa. To volunteer contact John Reynolds-Smith on 0417 223 960 or email info@lafiera.com.au. PHOTO: Jenny Zamperoni

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ALPINE Shire is on the hunt for a new chief executive officer, with incumbent Charlie Bird to leave council when his contract ends in July. Mr Bird, who was appointed to the role in August 2017 on a five year contract, confirmed last week that he will not be seeking a contract extension. “Personal events over the last few years have highlighted to me how quickly life can change and the importance of valuing the time we have with family and friends,” he said. “I look forward to re-establishing my successful consulting business and enjoying a different work-life balance.” Mr Bird almost left his role in early 2020, notifying council in mid-December 2019 of his intention to leave the shire, but reversing that decision two months later, after the devastating summer bushfires, “to help lead the Alpine Shire through a challenging period of recovery”. Alpine Shire Mayor Sarah Nicholas said a recruitment firm will be appointed shortly to recruit the next CEO and allow a smooth transition.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, April 1, 2022 - Page 23

SOCIAL FOCUS

Enjoyable high tea at Our Lady’s OUR Lady’s Catholic parish hosted a high tea on Thursday afternoon. The event was a great chance for locals to gather and catch up, after a couple of COVID-affected years. PHOTOS: Belinda Harrison

ABOVE: Margaret Lynch, Rose Defazio, Claire Threlfall and Nellie Van der Heyden.

ABOVE: Beryl Klemm and Dawn Davey.

• Fr Shibu Pezhumthottathil and Rhonda Bear.

ABOVE: Anne Vinar and Jo Perri.

ABOVE:Joy Sait, Elaine Finn, Isabel McConnell and Marg Johns.

• Marg Hemphill and Frances Rigoni.

ALL SHAPES AND SIZES: It was an early morning delight for balloon enthusiasts at the annual King Valley Balloon Fiesta. PHOTO: Andrew Chapman/ALCP images

WONDERFUL SIGHT: An aerial view of all the balloons at the Brown Brothers Milawa launch area. PHOTO: Robyn Varley/RMV images

IN THE BASKET: A drone camera captures a great shot of a balloon ascending over Milawa. PHOTO: Robyn Varley/RMV images

Balloon festival proves a hit THE King Valley Balloon Fiesta was a wonderful sight for people who attended and those who happened to look skywards over the weekend of March 25-27.

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2KM PRIMARY SCHOOL R E SRESULTS U LT S CHALLENGE Under 6 Male Place

Name

1st Lap

Time

Edward HUNTER

05:35

10:16

Lewis HOSKING

05:40

11:20

Julian MOLINA-GAITAN

07:54

13:56

Hudson REID

07:22

14:22

Finn HARRINGTON

08:52

16:43

Oliver REA

11:11

21:08

Place

Name

1st Lap

Time

Kaya SHAH

07:31

14:13

Finch ARNOLD

09:15

16:00

Madelyn BENTON

08:00

16:18

Anonymous

07:57

16:33

Under 6 Female

Grace WARNE

09:35

18:12

Anonymous

08:14

18:47

Emma ALLPICI

10:07

19:07

Olivia DALY

19:56

26:03

Kirby MCMAHON

12:16

26:06

DNF

Aaliyah HOGAN

DNF

6 Year Old Male Place

Name

1st Lap

Time

Gus RADESKI

05:16

10:06

Chester GLENDENNING

05:15

10:54

3. 4.

Hudson GILBERT Rory WILLETT

06:05 10:07

12:28 18:23

6 Year Old Female Place

Name

1st Lap

Time

Ella MURPHY

05:15

10:03

Amy LEUNG

06:01

12:22

3. 4.

Jessie O'KEEFE Carola HIGGINS

07:15 07:33

Anonymous

07:33

14:52

Lacey MURPHY

07:33

14:53

Clara BATTERS

08:13

15:12

Cash CANNING

08:23

16:09

7 Year Old Male Place

Name

1st Lap

Time

Blair HOSKING

04:41

09:20

Lucas DALY

04:53

09:35

Anonymous

05:27

09:54

Anonymous

05:15