Wangaratta Chronicle 020623

WE’RE EXCITED

NO RAIL RELIEF

UPGRADES to the state’s V/Line transport capacity won’t extend to the Albury line, with the North East set to be overlooked for the implementation of a further 23 VLocity trains from next year.

There were also no plans for extra carriages on the Albury line since the increase in patronage, with extra buses instead to be placed on standby.

The State Government recently announced a

North East V/Line capacity overlooked in state /pygbudget

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

$601m spend as part of the 2023/24 state budget to improve capacity on Victoria’s busiest regional train lines, with demand spiking considerably since the decision to cap V/Line fares at the same price as a

daily metropolitan ticket as of March 31.

The move will see a further 23 VLocity trains rolled out along the Melton, Bachhus Marsh and Geelong lines, allowing nine-car train sets to run to boost capacity on the line by 50 per cent.

A State Government spokesperson said there had been an increase in patronage on the Albury

line since the introduction of the regional fare cap on March 31, with 36,000 passenger trips taken since the start of the fare cap.

“The most popular Albury line services are scheduled to run as six-carriage trains and we have been supporting busy services with standby coaches,” the spokesperson said.

They said the Geelong and Ballarat lines were the busiest

on the V/Line network, and accounted for around 73 per cent of patronage on the state’s network in the last 12 months.

Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy said it was disappointing for the North East to be overlooked for further upgrades, particularly following a “problematic” initial rollout of VLocity trains in the past 12 months.

He said the fare cap

had exacerbated a lack of available space in nonreserved carriages, resulting in reports of overcrowding throughout the region.

“We have seen issues with the capacity of the new trains, particularly in the non-reserved seating, with horror stories of overcrowded carriages for the four-hour trip to Albury preventing access to toilets and seats for those who need them,” he said.

■ Continued page 4

GALEN Catholic College has teamed up with Liverpool Football Club to start a soccer academy. College principal Darta Hovey (left), and Kevin Kalinko, director of LFC’s International Academy Australia, made the arrangement official in front of a wholeschool assembly on Wednesday. Full story page 5.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Evader guaranteed jail term

A NORTH-EAST man who evaded police several times at speed in a stolen vehicle before attempting to escape on foot across a creek near Killawarra will return to court later this month.

The 35-year-old, who has ties to Yarrawonga, faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, where he pleaded guilty to serious driving and theft-related charges after leading police on an extensive chase

through paddocks and bushland off Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road earlier this year.

Driving a stolen black Mercedes-Benz, the accused was said to have stolen $66 of fuel from a Cobram service station, before travelling at speed along the Murray Valley Highway and then towards Wangaratta on March 9.

The court heard police had deployed stop sticks sev-

eral times along WangarattaYarrawonga Road, causing the defendant to make at least three u-turns before diverting into a nearby rural property, smashing through fencing and causing upwards of $24,000 in damages.

Having returned to the main road and diverting north, the accused eventually ran over stop sticks, driving for a further 3km before escaping on foot, attempting to lose police by swimming

across Boundary Creek.

The pursuit was overseen by the Police Airwing unit, which tracked the accused to bushland where he was eventually cornered and arrested by ground patrols.

The accused was not said to have been involved in the initial theft of the vehicle from a Melbourne property eight days prior, and had been given the keys earlier on March 9.

Defence counsel Harry

Lewis said his client, who appeared remotely from Fulham prison, had spent 84 days in custody since his arrest.

He noted the accused’s partner was three months pregnant, and hoped the arrival of his client’s first child could serve as the catalyst for significant behavioural change.

“(His partner) is understandably very upset that he’s in jail while she’s pregnant,” Mr Lewis said.

“He wants to be a good fa-

ther and he wants to be a good role model for his child.”

Magistrate Ian Watkins said the offending required a term of imprisonment, however, noted he was unaware whether the accused would be permitted to recommence an existing community corrections order upon his release.

He adjourned the matter to June 26 for sentence, to allow for a corrections assessment.

Stolen car, credit card lands man in hot water

By RYAN MALCOLM

A SPRINGHURST man who abused police after stealing a family vehicle from a rural property in Springhurst has been bailed to face court at a later date.

Sergeant Martin Torpey of Wangaratta police said the accused man had stolen a Nissan Navara utility from a Springhurst property following a domestic dispute on Wednesday afternoon, before later clashing with police in the Wangaratta CBD.

Elsie Waite was playing with scattered leaves at King George V Gardens as a cold end to autumn preceded a forecasted warmer than average beginning to winter this June.

Cold May concludes a wet autumn for city

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

WANGARATTA has endured its coldest May since 1987 and the third coldest in 50 years recorded by the Bureau of Meteorology, as rain continued throughout a wet autumn.

May’s 46.8mm of rainfall took the city’s autumn total to 206mm, making it the sixth wettest autumn in the past 30 years.

The total autumn rainfall was well above the 35 year average of 148.3mm, with only the 381.3mm of total autumn rain in 1989 exceeding this year’s total rainfall by more than 15mm.

It was two degrees colder than long-term average May maximum temperatures going down to 15.3 degrees.

Wangaratta recorded

some of the coldest mornings in the state over the past month with a minimum of -2.7 degrees on Friday, May 19 being the second coldest recorded May temperature since 2010.

The very cold southerly air mass quickly swept northwards creating record low temperatures for early May in its wake.

Record low average temperatures were recorded in

Rutherglen and Bairnsdale with 100 year low mean maximum temperatures for May.

Rainfall continued to be steady across the region with Falls Creek (140mm), Everton (55.6mm), Greta West (61.4mm) and Edi Upper (94.2mm) all exceeding May average rainfall totals.

However, the bureau’s winter outlook points to temperatures across the

country being warmer and conditions drier than median figures, from June to August.

The bureau said this forecast is being influenced by several factors, including likely warming in the tropical Pacific Ocean towards El Nino thresholds, potential development of a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, and record warm oceans globally.

According to Sgt Torpey, the accused was seen parked near the Ford and Murphy streets intersection around 5.30pm, with officers forcibly removing the man from his vehicle after he became abusive towards police when asked to vacate the vehicle.

He was arrested and later charged with theft of a motor vehicle and deception-related charges, after he spent a “couple of hundred dollars” on a skateboard and multiple items of clothing with a stolen credit card.

The vehicle was subsequently recovered and returned to its owner, while the accused was bailed to face Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court in the coming months.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

concerns for participants’ safety gyppy Rainbow Ball postponed

THE Rainbow Ball that was scheduled to be held on Saturday at the Wangaratta Turf Club has been postponed after “confronting commentary” about the event was made on social media this week.

Rural City of Wangaratta released a statement on Thursday afternoon following discussions with Victoria Police about the safety of participants the previous night.

The decision to delay the event was made for the safety of event participants due to the event being targeted by groups with radical views.

“Rural City of Wangaratta

strongly supports our LGBTIQA+ community,” council Mayor Dean Rees said.

“There has been some confronting commentary around the Rainbow Ball circulated on social media, and because of this, we have chosen to prioritise the safety of all attendees and staff and delay the event.

“We are extremely disappointed that there has been some hateful narrative around this event, we do not accept this but we cannot risk an event that is about fun and celebration posing a risk to anyone attending.

Sports and aquatic centre unveils brand new gym space

By STEVE KELLY

A BRAND new gym at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre, four times the size of the former facility, opened on Thursday boasting the latest fitness equipment.

Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees opened the upgraded council facilities in front of about 100 people in what he described as “the best gym” in the North East and Border region.

“It’s a facility that would be the best in Victoria at the moment with all this new equipment, and it’s four times the size of the previous gym so there will be more availability to use the machines,” he said.

WSAC is operated by the Rural City of Wangaratta and Cr Rees said the community owns the facility.

Council recently actioned a price change for the public and members to use the whole WSAC facility to make it more affordable for certain user groups

“Prioritising the safety of our community, especially our youth, is not negotiable but we will aim to reschedule this event to enable all LGBTQIA+ young people, allies, and friends across the greater North East region of Victoria to celebrate together.

“Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to provide a welcoming and inclusive envi-

ronment for all people.

“We have a diverse and vibrant community and all members of our community have the right to feel safe and be themselves here.”

Cr Rees said council is working with partner organisations and the community of the North East to support people affected by these circumstances.

The ball has been held several times in the region as a celebration for LGBTIQA+ young people and their friends.

The event was marketed to have a dancefloor, DJ, face

painting, performer, runway, live band - YNOT, and photobooth.

It is a fully supervised, alcohol, drug, vape and smoke free event.

In a statement from Victoria Police they said the decision to cancel a planned event in Wangaratta was made by the Rural City of Wangaratta.

“Ahead of the planned event, Victoria Police was asked to provide information to help inform the Rural City of Wangaratta’s risk assessment,” the statement read.

“Victoria Police’s role ahead of all planned major

public events is to provide information and intelligence to event organisers so they can make informed decisions.

“Police will always allocate resources to local community events based on the level of risk when required.”

If this article causes any distress or you would like support at this time please reach out to Q Life 1800 184 527 between 3pm-12am, call Rainbow Door on 1800 729 367 or text 0480 017 246 between 10am-5pm, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

such as concession holders.

“This is a people’s gymnasium, this is a people’s sporting centre and that’s reflective in pricing to enable people to use the whole facility,” Cr Rees said.

“We want to get more people using the gym and all the facilities, it’s better for their awareness and social wellbeing and mental health.

“It’s not just the gym, people can come and have a swim as well and hopefully this will attract more

memberships which will benefit the people of the rural city.”

Sports, aquatic and events precinct manager, Sonya Dalgleish, said the gym boasts upgraded state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a new functional fitness training studio for personal training and specific sports training sessions.

“The new WSAC gym space promises to provide the very best for every member of our community,” she said.

“It has been created for the community, as your place to feel good, for you to be able to achieve your goals.

“If pushing the limits to stay strong, connecting your mind and body for peace and healing, reaching a milestone, or even taking that first step to get back in the game relates to you, this is your place to feel good.

“We have specialised staff to guide and support your journey, which can start right here at the WSAC.

Australia has a new National Cultural Policy, , which aims to create a place for every story, and a story for every place, including in the regions.

The Indi Cultural Policy Roundtable will provide the opportunity for the arts, entertainment and cultural community in Indi to learn about the policy from the Government's Special Envoy for the Arts Susan Templeman MP. There will also be also be a Q & A session with a departmental representative.

Tuesday 6 June 2023

3.00 pm – 4.00 pm

Memorial Hall B, Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre

Attendance is free but spots are limited and registration essential. To register go to events.humanitix.com/indi-cultural-policy-roundtable

Wangaratta / 117 Murphy Street 03 5721 7077

Wodonga / 79 High Street 02 6024 6284

helenhaines.org @helenhainesindi helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Helen Haines 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677

“With new equipment across the gym, we have all the latest technological developments in equipment that our members and visitors need and expect.”

The newly completed gym is part of the larger WSAC expansion project - adding additional indoor basketball and mutli-purpose courts - funded in part with $5.46 million through the Victorian Government’s Community Sport Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.

GYM READY: Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s new gym was opened on Thursday with precinct manager Sonya Dalgleish (left), council CEO Brendan McGrath, Deputy Mayor Harry Bussell and Mayor Dean Rees getting a feel for the new equipment.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“Confronting commentary” raises

Station precinct works green lit for Inland Rail

THE Cusack Street footbridge will be the first to be removed as works to transform the Wangaratta Railway Station precinct for the Inland Rail project start this month.

At Wangaratta, there is not enough clearance under the two station footbridges or Green Street bridge, so substantial works are required to facilitate the safe passage of doublestacked trains.

Australian Rail Track Corporation’s (ARTC) construction partner McConnell Dowell will replace the Cusack and Docker

North East V/Line capacity overlooked in state budget

■ From page 1 “This was all before the capped fares, which now are resulting in trains being booked out weeks in advance and the non-reserved carriages being overcrowded on a regular basis - further, access to amenities such as the buffet car, become difficult if not impossible.”

Mr McCurdy said it was important consumers between Sydney and Melbourne were well supported with updated train infrastructure.

“It is clear that there is a need for more services, or more carriages on the North East line, so it is disappointing, yet not out of the ordinary, for the government to give us some new trains and tell us to deal with it,” he said.

“We deserve to be heard, and we deserve the trains that will ensure the line between Mel-

streets footbridges with a pedestrian underpass, relocate the existing track on the eastern side of the station and construct a new platform, and replace the existing Green Street bridge.

Elements of the Cusask Street footbridge’s heritage and design will be incorporated into the new pedestrian underpass, and further vegetation clearing will take place to accommodate the works.

The station will remain open to vehicles, pedestrians, and commuters throughout all construction activities.

Pedestrian access from Norton Street to Cusack Street will be maintained across the Docker Street footbridge during construction.

Green Street bridge will be closed in early 2024 for about six months, with detours in place.

Ed Walker, ARTC general manager Victoria and South Australia projects, said it’s an exciting time for the project in Wangaratta.

“We will modernise the station precinct and make it a space the community will be proud of,” he said.

“We’ve listened to community and stakeholders during the design stages and their feedback on heritage, safety, accessibility, and connectivity has been incorporated into the Wangaratta project, along with the requirements of our heritage and environment approvals.

“We are working hard with our construction partner, McConnell Dowell to minimise the impact of works on the community.

“To stay up to date on the project, we encourage residents to sign up for regular email updates on our website.”

Pride flag and new pole chance for council

By STEVE KELLY

RURAL City of Wangaratta

council will consider flying the pride flag in front of council’s municipal offices in Oven Street on special days following the advice of a working group.

LEFT OUT: 23 new VLocity trains are set to be constructed for western routes next year, with Wangaratta set to miss out on a further upgrade to its transport capacity.

bourne and Sydney is well used by passengers, and can accommodate the demands that currently exist.”

Speaking in parliament during the week, Benambra MP Bill Tilley said V/Line ticketing needed to be addressed to avoid chronic overcrowding on North East trains with only 96 of a VLocity service’s 328 seats available to be booked online.

“This is a joke, where tickets are sold with no appreciation of whether the train is already full and people are forced to stand or sit on the carriage floor, like some third world service,” he said.

“How is this even safe?

“They need to either provide another three-car set or limit the number of tickets sold.”

The Victorian Government spokesperson said with demand continuing to increase, passengers were encouraged to reserve a ticket before travelling by booking online, visiting Wangaratta Railway Station during staffed hours, calling 1800 800 007 or by visiting a retail ticket agent.

Social media users shared their experiences using V/Line services since the fare cap was introduced.

Facebook comments on page 9.

At the May council meeting LINE Wangaratta’s Alison Winters asked whether councillors would consider installing a new flag pole at the council building to fly the rainbow flag for the LGBTQIA+ days of significance.

Council director community and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said a similar question was answered at a March 2021 council meeting and it was resolved to develop an Inclusive Wangaratta working group.

“One of the roles of that working group, tasked through the resolution, is to look at flying the flag on significant days and that would include the installation of a new flag pole,” he said.

“Based on that resolution council will await the outcomes of the working group and look forward to working with that group through this topic.”

REMOVAL OF FOOTBRIDGES: An artists impression of how the Wangaratta station precinct will look at the completion of Inland Rail works.

Rolling out The Reds’ carpet

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

Galen Catholic College has joined forces with one of world sport’s most famous organisations, Liverpool Football Club, in an initiative set to benefit students, staff and the wider community.

The Wangaratta college has announced a partnership which will see an exclusive Liverpool FC International Academy high-performance soccer school program commence at its Phillipson Street campus next term.

Wangaratta’s academy will be one of just four in Australia, with others already in place at Kilmore’s Assumption College, Salesian College Chadstone and St Joseph’s College Geelong.

Linked with the new afterschool soccer program for six to 16-year-olds will be the chance for Galen to host a range of LFC community training and holiday programs, which will be available to all aspiring players in the region seeking to ‘learn to play the Liverpool way’.

As the LFC International Academy in Australia is a partnership project between the world-famous football club and the Australian College of Physical Education (Australia’s leading independent higher education provider for specialist degrees in sport, education, health, sport business and dance), the link also opens up important connections for senior students seeking further study in these areas.

The development of local coaches through education and development opportunities is another central aspect of the academy, and LFC will offer local coaches the chance to receive expert training and accreditation for the project.

Galen principal Darta Hovey said the partnership with Liverpool provided all members of the local community and the broader region with the chance to

Galen College link with Liverpool Football Club to extend through community

rangement was a boon for Galen, Wangaratta, the region, and the sport.

“There is a huge opportunity for clubs and the sport to benefit, first and foremost to develop players and coaches, and also to bring much-needed attention to the sport,” he said.

Kevin Kalinko, director of LFC International Academy Australia, said the announcement of the partnership with Galen was “a proud day in the 130 year history of the Liverpool Football Club”.

He said it was clear right from early discussions with Galen that the school’s values were closely aligned with those of LFC - ambition, unity, commitment and dignity - and the two organisations were “unified in our approach”.

Quoting Liverpool fans’ signature tune, Mr Kalinko said: “Galen College and the broader Wangaratta community, I am proud to declare ‘you’ll never walk alone’.”

engage in the high quality approach of a worldwide community organisation.

With a multi-million dollar building program including a new stadium currently nearing completion at Galen, Mr Hovey said it was important those assets be available to the wider community.

He said the LFC arrangement had been borne out of networking, and when the chance arose for Galen to be part of the academy in Australia and to bring the opportunity to the North East, it was an easy decision.

“This ongoing relationship seeks to provide opportunities for young people to harness their gifts and talents, not just in a sporting space but also in their own life journey,” he said.

The youth coaching program will involve developing players’ social and mental growth, career paths, and life skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication, in addition to a high quality football program which will develop their

technical, tactical and physical skills.

“This is not just about soccer - it’s about social and mental wellbeing, and there is also potential to utilise some of our curriculum to help continue to build that relationship with the Liverpool approach.”

Members of Galen College staff have been undertaking coaching accreditation with expert training from LFC’s

International Academy coaches in preparation for the local programs.

Pat Arcuri, Galen’s deputy head of staff and students, and maths teacher Raff Molinaro (coach of the Wangaratta City Football Club senior side) have earned coaching accreditation and are excited about the opportunity for locals to be part of the quality pathway.

“Our program doesn’t just cater to elite players, but to the player holistically,” Mr Arcuri said.

“It will help to develop our region’s young people under the Liverpool model.

“Having played soccer as a youth player in the region, I understand the significance of the opportunity to have this technical and tactical program to deliver to the kids.”

Mr Molinaro said the ar-

Learning area leader for health and physical education at Galen, Eliza Pascall, said it had been great as a staff member not only to look at the structure of LFC programs, but to learn about the club’s culture, and she was eager to see how students embraced the club’s valued and integrated them into the FIRST (faith, integrity, respect, self, team) framework at Galen.

“I am excited about the opportunities that our partnership with Liverpool Football Club will open up for our students,” she said.

“Our curriculum team is working in conjunction with Kevin Grima, the technical director from the Liverpool Football Club International Academy, to create units of work and subject electives that will be incorporated into our physical education programs.”

The Galen program currently has four coaches, with 12 players set to be allocated to each coach, and Mr Arcuri said expressions of interest for both coaches and players would be open soon.

GREAT OPPORTUNITY: Providing holistic development of young soccer players like (from left) Dermot Mitchell, Samantha Scott, Johannah McLaughlin, Sammy Cairns, Hugh Aggenbach, Luca D’Agostino, Chloe Peacock and Patrick Hill is a focus of the Liverpool Football Club International Academy.

READY TO GO: Kevin Grima, technical director from the Liverpool Football Club International Academy, with Galen College staff members and coaches Pat Arcuri (front) and Raff Molinaro and excited young soccer players (back) Chloe Peacock, Roxy Smithwick, Samantha Scott, Sammy Cairns, Pippa O’Connor, Xavier Rech, Dermot Mitchell, Go Ashby, (front) Johannah McLaughlin, Luca D’Agostino, Patrick Hill and Hugh Aggenbach at Wednesday’s announcement.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

The Voice will address issues, make life better for First Nations people

Indi MP Helen Haines has supported the idea of a referendum for Australian citizens to vote the Indigenous Voice to Parliament later this year.

In her speech to the House of Representatives last week Dr Haines said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should have a say about a law, policy or program that impacts them.

“They have a right to participate in decisions that affect them and a right to have some power over their own destiny,” Dr Haines said.

“A Voice will give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people this long-overdue opportunity to participate in the decisions that directly affect them, and it will require the rest of us to listen.

“The Voice will embed consultation in policymaking.

“This isn’t a new concept, it is best practice.

“When you consult, the difference in outcomes is profound.”

Dr Haines used an example of when she worked for the Department of Rural Health at the University of Melbourne.

She had the great privilege of working with First Nations people from the Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative in Shepparton.

She said this organisation was founded by the extraordinary First Nations leaders from the Cummeragunja walk-off, which occurred in February 1939.

“It was the first Indigenous mass protest in Australia, and the elders who led the walk-off continued to fight for the rights of the Yorta Yorta community and led the way to the creation of the Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative.

“Their community-led services in health, welfare, disability, elder care, sport and education are highly successful and taught me what is really so obvious: when Aboriginal people have agency to determine their future and to respond to their needs in a culturally safe way, you see success, you see impact, you see empowerment and you see change.

“My former midwifery colleagues have shared with me the stories and evidence from highly successful Birthing on Country programs led by First Nations midwives and Aboriginal health workers.

“We saw during COVID the extraordinary success of ACCHOs and local leadership in keeping communities safe.”

Dr Haines said she’s a practical person and she wants to see programs that work.

“I am confident that a Voice will see programs such as these that I have described as the rule, not the exception,” she said.

“What we’re doing now is not working.

“Nationally, we are failing our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“For too long First Nations

people have experienced racism, exclusion and disadvantage.

“They face barriers in the most fundamental areas: housing, education, employment, justice and health.

“Successive closing the gap reports show patchy improvement at best.

“Government initiatives over decades have done little more than entrench that disadvantage.

“Poorly designed yet expensive policies which miss the mark or sometimes actually make things up far worse are not good for First Nations people and they are not good for our country.”

Dr Haines said the idea of the Voice was not new as it gained support from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the country after the detailed grassroots dialogues in 2017 that crystallised in the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

She said more than 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives issued the statement calling for this constitutional reform.

The final vote to hold the referendum was 121 in favour and 25 against.

Most of the Liberals MPs voted for the bill.

The Liberals had indicated that although they oppose the Voice, they would not impede the people having a vote on the issue.

Getabout Glenrowan on the June long weekend

RUG up and get on the go for fun, food, history and some gob-smacking tastes during Glenrowan’s Trails, Tastings and Tales food and wine festival being held over three days on the June long weekend.

The cellar doors will have something to suit all tastes on their wine lists, there are speciality brews to sample and a delicious range of food on festival menus.

Along with new release wines to taste, there will be some older vintages to purchase, making it a truly unique experience.

Jennifer Booth from Booths Taminick Cellars said participating venues will have live music, winter warming lunch options and a range of sweet treats wellsuited to a steaming hot coffee or a glass of the fortified wines the region is well known for.

“Visitors can also enjoy a beer at Glenrowan’s Black Dog Brewery, with beers on tap as well as some specialty craft brews to discover,” she said.

“Join in the wine masterclasses to learn the ins and outs of the production process, or try a small group taste tutorial to learn how to really appreciate the region’s specialty wines, with bookings essential for these winemakers’ workshops on the June long weekend.”

The Glenrowan community and craft market will be held on Monday, June 12, with stallhold-

ers coming from across the state, which means plenty of things to see and do over all three days.

Close to the Hume Freeway and with a short distance between participating venues, it’s an easy festival to access and enjoy.

The cost to participate is $20 which includes entry and a me-

mento Riedel festival glass, which can be used to access wine tastings at Baileys of Glenrowan, Booths Taminick Cellars and Morrisons of Glenrowan.

The Glenrowan festival glass is required for wine tastings on the June long weekend, at one or all venues, and it can be purchased

EPA continues to oversees cleanup after incident

By RYAN MALCOLM

ALPINE MDF remains under careful supervision by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), following an ANZAC Day incident which saw wood fibre material deposited over farms and properties near the North Wangaratta factory.

A regulatory notice was imposed by the EPA in the immediate aftermath, after emergency service crews warned residents along Crosher Lane, Buckler Road, Bowser Road and Bourke Road to stay inside, turn off air conditioners and close vents until the incident was over.

According to an EPA Victoria statement, officials were continuing to oversee ongoing clean-up efforts by Alpine MDF.

“We also require the company to use an appropriately qualified consultant to assist them in producing a riskbased clean-up plan for any remaining industrial waste, predominantly wood fibre material, to be removed from affected areas,” the statement read.

EPA North East regional manager, Renee Palmer, said her focus remained on working with Alpine MDF in eliminating risk to the public and ensuring it can’t happen again.

at whichever winery you choose to arrive at first.

There is no BYO alcohol or food, and no coaches on the June long weekend, with mini buses welcome, however pre-booking is essential.

Eftpos is available at the wineries and brewer on the trail, but no cash out facilities.

“EPA continue to meet with the company to outline what’s expected of them including clean-up and reporting requirements over the coming months,” she said.

According to the statement, the EPA is also working with Alpine MDF to monitor air emissions, in an effort to ensure the manufacturer is meeting its General Environmental Duty.

REGIONAL CELEBRATION: Glenrowan Trails, Tastings and Tales food and wine festival participants including (from left) James Booth (Black Dog Brewery), Dianne Morrison (Morrisons of Glenrowan), Jennifer Booth (Taminick Cellars) and Shelly Hutchins (Baileys of Glenrowan) look forward to showcase the unique attractions of the Glenrowan region.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Local event latest victim of extremists

A DECISION to postpone the Rainbow Ball scheduled for this weekend at the Wangaratta Turf Club was made to ensure the safety of young people in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Society has evolved in recent years with the right to marry in Australia no longer determined by sex or gender as of December 9, 2017, after Australians voted in favour of marriage equality.

However, the actions by extremist minority groups and people currently using social media services to spread vitriolic messages in an effort to try and suppress people, events and sometimes vulnerable people, is nothing short of bigotry behaviour.

The Rainbow Ball has proven to be an amazing event for young people in the LGBTQIA+ community to help them network among like-minded people and be who they are without any barriers or oppression.

It’s an event organised by multiple councils throughout North East Victoria for the benefit of so many people.

The last thing that any organisation trying to promote such a credible event wants to do is give these perpetrators oxygen after they incite anti-social behaviour on carriage services such as twitter.

Victoria Police have been involved with this particular issue as they are when extremists attempt to curtail other events that take place across the state.

The question does need to be asked though, when will these people, the majority of who are from outside the rural city, be punished by law.

Perhaps it’s an issue for MPs to step in on to legislate to stamp out this type of potentially harmful activism.

If this editorial causes you distress, call lifeline on 13 11 14.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week commented on our weekly poll, which asked users ‘Did the State Government allocate enough funding to the North East as part of the 2023/24 state budget?’

• Bobby Boss: NO,You should know by now that Melbourne is where the votes come from

• Leslie Matthews: The funding to the North East represents the efforts from the local member.

• Tania Maxwell: Leslie Matthews That should be plural.

Facebook users also commented on the new Wangaratta Night Shelter initiative dubbed warming centres, which will be dotted throughout the community where those facing hardship can receive food, warmth and care free of charge.

• Jack Carruthers: There are 23 Churches/Cults/Brethen in Wangaratta. Most are sitting idle paying no taxes

Thank you Wangaratta shoppers for caring

FOOD pantry donations are one of the most powerful ways to make a difference to those who are experiencing financial difficulties, and the Wangaratta community has repeatedly shown its willingness to help in trying times.

On Saturday morning Loaves and Fishes Christians Caring held its winter grab-agrocery appeal outside of Coles and Woolworths supermarkets.

During the morning we received over 2000 donated food items.

It was an outstanding success as our team of dedicated volunteers accepted the food items offered by generous shoppers.

For this we thank each of you sincerely for your kindness.

Regardless of the size of the donation everyone makes a difference.

During the morning we had many delightful reports, of people caring, like the two teenagers who were passing on their way to a favourite fishing spot but stopped and each donated their packet of skittles that was to be their morning snack, or the woman who walked over to one of our collectors with a full shopping trolley of goods and announced that it was for us, or the two people who were still stopping when we packed up and left but each took the trouble to drive to our premises in Ovens Street to deliver their donation.

There were many generous acts by the shoppers that reflected their concern for others.

In the forthcoming months the food that was donated will be distributed to families within our community who are in need.

This food assistance will help them offset some of their other winter expenses.

To all the people who donated we say thank you for your caring.

We would also like to thank the Chronicle who have been instrumental in promoting this event and for their ongoing support.

Mark Heaton, chairperson Loaves & Fishes Christians Caring

Libs’ Voice comments worth repeating

I BELIEVE the best response to Luke Davies letter (Chronicle, May 26) querying the National Party’s opposition to setting up an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice (ATSIV) in our Constitution is to quote part of Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s speech setting out why he’s opposed to the ATSIV becoming part of Australia’s Constitution.

“If the Referendum is successful, amendments will not be made to existing

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

or rates. If they do have a true compassion of human beings and their needs, is time to throw open the doors for those in need.

• Charles Branstom: Jack Carruthers Love to see that happen. Would somewhat restore what little faith I have for religion.

• Timothy Simpson: Great work guys, showing the adults how it can and should be done.

Facebook users also commented on the Mar-

mungan Rock ceremony which recognised 2023 Wangaratta Citizen of the Year Neil Jarrott’s tireless community work, leaving his imprint on the Apex Park rock.

• Gwynneth O’Brien: Congratulations so very well deserved It was a privilege and such a pleasure to share this time with you .

• Marg Gibb: Good on you Neil most deserved

• Ian Corbett: Well deserved mate u r the backbone

NATIVE BOTANICALS:

Visitors to the Art Gallery on Ovens are enjoying seeing a collection of new paintings by resident artist, Sandy Wingate (pictured), called ‘Flowers for Margaret’. The exhibition takes inspiration from the style of wellknown Australian painter and printmaker, Margaret Preston, with Sandy focusing on native flora. See it today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm, with entry free.

chapters of the Constitution.

“Rather, a new chapter will be inserted.

“The Voice would be the most radical and consequential change to the way our democracy operates in our nation’s history.

“Furthermore, if a Voice is embedded in the Constitution, the Parliament can’t change the Voice or pass laws to override it.

“If Australians have buyer’s remorse, the Voice comes with a ‘no returns’ policy. It’s here to stay.

“And yet, this institution hasn’t even been road tested.

“Naturally, as all Australians instinctively know, you wouldn’t buy a house without inspecting it.

“You wouldn’t purchase a car without test driving it.

“Yet the government wants you to vote on a Voice not knowing what it is, or what it can do.

“The approach is a reckless roll of the dice’.” Unquote.

I totally agree with Mr Dutton, once it is in the Constitution the ATSIV can’t be removed.

It will give people of ATSI heritage a second vote and input into Australian Government decision making, that non-ATSI people will not have, creating two classes of Australian citizenship.

Equality of citizenship is fundamental to what it means to live in a democracy.

We must vote No in order to ensure it’s never abolished.

John Moore, Wangaratta

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

14,172

POLL RESULTS

Did the State Government allocate enough funding to the North East as part of the 2023/24 state budget?

14 Yes

2 No 12

NORTH EAST BUDGET votes to yesterdaynoon

THIS WEEK

Should V/Line offer additional services during peak travel times?

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility. Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

FACEBOOK users this week commented on their experience of V/Line’s Albury service since the state’s fare cap reduction.

• Julie Roberts: I’ve been using this service regularly for the last six months. Never had a problem finding a seat and never once been replaced by a bus. It was 20 minutes late once. People seem to expect an awful lot for $9

• Linda Hancock: Instead of having 3 carraiges put 6 on as the vline train is alaways full

and nowhere for passengers to sit and if someone is sitting in a resvered seat that is meant to for the person who booked it need to sit somewhere else.

• Andrew Meloury: Just change the signs to v/line bus station then it will be a surprise if you ever get a train again

• Rob Bell: Fares are great but it’s incredibly difficult to book a ticket when you need to go. For medical appointments in Melbourne or a weekend trip down and back, it’s virtually impossible to now book a seat on the

train. I’d rather pay the higher fare and let pensioners only have the cheaper fare. Surely more regular trains can be running or more carriages.

• Claire Robinson: It’s great that they have introduced cheap public transport in order to make trips affordable and accessible for everyone - however it’s not great that they are overbooking trains which means people do not have seats for long trips. On my recent trip seat issues were causing serious fights. However Vline staff handled the situation

extremely well, removing the offending party and organising a bus for the overflow who were standing. Something definitely needs to be done to cater for the amount of people using the service.

• Ian Corbett: Was on the train this morning then got a train home that stopped in Seymour Then had to get on a bus Made me wonder why Then I saw it Freight trains everywhere on track & parked I know now that the future is freight trains Not passengers.

TWITTER users this week tweeted about the Melbourne earthquake, customer service in Wangaratta and public education.

Simon Evans @Se77Evans

I didn’t feel it in Wangaratta. That’s a good thing.

ANNE ROBBIE @ANNEROBBIE1

Thanks to APCO staff @ Wangaratta, great service, divine coffee, just how I asked for it, and lovely food. Thanks!

Wazza from Melbourne @Melbourne_says

Agree wholeheartedly. I went back to high school to do year 11 when I was 18 after leaving in year 8 at another school. I wish I could shake the hand of the coordinator at Wangaratta High School. He believed in me. And helped shape my life for the good. Public schools are great.

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

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

14,172

Tweet

ANZCA Clinical Trials Network @ctn_anzca

A huge shout out to the team at Northeast Health Wangaratta celebrating #ICTD2023! The @ChewyTrial @TrigsTrial @SnappStudy @SNAP3_ANZ cupcakes look delicious!

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Kerrie proud to see Grit and Resilience thriving

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

KERRIE Hicks rates her role in helping initiate the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program among her proudest involvements in a 20-year policing career.

So she is excited to be returning to Wangaratta on June 7 as a guest speaker for the program’s seventh ‘Heartbeat’ - the next check-in on the initiative’s progress and a view to its future.

Kerrie now operates her own business, Gritential Coaching, after returning to Australia following time spent in 2021 working as a team leader and investigator for the United Nations in Iraq.

She uses her new platform to empower people to harness their grit, realise their potential, and live their lives to the fullest.

Kerrie said she was introduced to the concept of grit (a term popularised by Angela Duckworth through her TED Talk and 2016 book ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’) when discussions began around the need for something like the Grit and Resilience Program amid a rise in suicide numbers while she was Local Area Commander in Wangaratta.

“I was part of the Central Hume Suicide Prevention Network, working on suicide prevention in the community, which has been and sadly still is a real challenge,” she said.

“The Rural City of Wangaratta community is phenomenally resilient.

“The question is, how do you get to someone when they are in a dark place, and how do you keep getting people through those dark times?”

These discussions led to the concept of the Grit and Resilience Program, which attracted $1.2 million in Federal Government funding for its first four years, and earlier this year secured ongoing State Government funding.

“It is really difficult to attract funding for prevention; how do you measure what doesn’t happen?,” Kerrie said.

“So it was a pretty amazing investment in the concept, and it’s so exciting to see how it has evolved.

petition

MARKWOOD residents have called on Wangaratta council to set the wheels in motion for a speed limit reduction from 100kph to 60kph on two local roads, citing pedestrian and cyclist safety as a need for the change.

The two roads in question are Yarrabee and Illawong roads in Markwood‘s Henley Ridge Estate (off the Snow Road).

A joint letter containing 38 signatures from Richard Morgan, calling for a reduction of speed limit, was tabled at the March council meeting, and councillors voted to take action this week.

Marcus Goonan, director of community and infrastructure, told council the main reasons for this were the narrow roads, school children and general pedestrian movement and frequent cycling activity in the area.

“Heartbeat #7 is a great opportunity to celebrate all that, and the way it’s been embraced by the community.”

Kerrie said speaking at the June 7 gathering, to be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, was a chance to “pay it forward”.

“Sometimes people need someone to inspire and help them,” she said.

“Everyone’s got gold in them, it’s just about helping them find that gold.

“I fell in love with that idea of grit, and that’s what I’ll be talking about, as well as supporting people to develop their own resilience model.”

Kerrie said everyone’s resilience model was unique, and could be employed when facing tough times.

“We know when things are going well for us, but what do we do when things are not going well?” she said.

She said the pandemic taught her the power of rest, and reminded her of the pleasure of sitting on the couch and reading a book.

That is now part of her resilience model, along with sleep; time with family and friends (“You need people you can be with and just have a laugh”); exercise; nutrition and hydration; and meditation.

Kerrie said coaching was “like holding up mirrors” and helping people see what could work for them as their own resilience models.

She has also found it helpful to get a handle on her “inner critic”, who she names Gollum, and her “inner champion”, otherwise known as Ted Lasso.

“I’ll share some stories that have led to the evolution of my resilience model, and I’ll encourage people to come up with one way to support their own, and throw in some coaching techniques,” Kerrie said.

As well as speaking to the gathering, Kerrie is looking forward to hearing more about the Grit and Resilience Program’s achievements, and where it is heading.

“It’s such a testament to Bek (Nash-Webster, Grit and Resilience Program coordinator) and the team, the Rural City of Wangaratta, and the

consortium, who are just phenomenal humans, to see the success and know it’s now an ongoing program,” she said.

“The best solutions are created by the community for the community, and to know it is working is really impactful, to know there are people who want to be part of the solution.”

Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program’s Heartbeat #7 will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Wednesday, June 7 from 5.30pm to 8pm.

As well as Kerrie’s address, there will be light refreshments and entertainment from Project365 and Jazy Jade Music.

Book your free spot now by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com. au/e/heartbeat-7-showcase-celebrate-evolve-tickets-596328784447 or email the Grit and Resilience Program team at gritandresilience@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au for further information.

• If this media article causes you any distress, please phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

“Council officers have completed a valuation of the speed zone using the Austroads infrastructure risk management rating,” Mr Goonan said.

“This risk assessment and methodology uses a number of different calculations including land use, road scenarios, lane widths, horizontal alignments and roadside hazards.

“The recommendation from this is that council work with VicRoads, Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) to seek approval to reduce the speed limit in the Yarrabee, Illawong roads to 60kph.”

Cr Bussell said he hoped that RRV agrees with the request as he believed it wasn‘t safe to travel at more than 60kph.

Councillors voted to approach RRV to discuss the issue and seek approval for a speed limit reduction.

Celebrate with Sangiovese, dancing & feasting at Pizzini!

Dance, sip & feast at Pizzini with delicious food by Pinchos, wine tastings and wine cocktails, plus tunes by Paris & Co. & Bric a Brac on Sunday.

Our event is part of the King Valley’s Weekend Fit for A King Festival. Entry is $30pp and includes event glass plus access to all festival venues.

For details and to book your tickets - www.wineofthekingvalley.com.au

GUEST SPEAKER: Kerrie Hicks will speak at next week’s Heartbeat #7 for the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program.

100kph is too fast for Markwood residents:

I fell in love with that idea of grit, and that’s what I’ll be talking about, as well as supporting people to develop their own resilience model.

- KERRIE HICKS

FRIDAY is Crazy Socks 4 Docs Day - a day of bringing out your best (or worst) socks in support of the mental wellbeing of the health sector workforce.

Healthcare workers, including doctors, are particularly vulnerable because of work stress, burnout and shiftwork.

Dr Geoff Toogood is the founder of the Crazysocks4docs movement and he is a consultant cardiologist in Melbourne, Victoria.

He has lived experience of both depression and anxiety.

Dr Toogood faced stigma and discrimination at many levels and was determined that once recovered he would create an awareness movement to break down the stigma faced by health professionals.

He wants to reduce doctors’ suicide around the world.

A poll run by InSight+ recently showed that 67 per cent of doctors still believe that seeking help for their mental health problems will endanger their career.

This is not new infor-

mation, and yet doctors’ mental health continues to be an ongoing concern.

Beyond Blue’s now famous 2013 National Mental Health Survey of Doctors and Medical Students found that “about 40pc of doctors felt that medical professionals with a history of mental health disorders were perceived as less competent than their peers, and 48pc felt that these doctors were less likely to be appointed compared to doctors without a history of mental health problems”.

Inspiring renewable change

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

WANGARATTA Landcare and Sustainability (WLS) are out to help the community save on energy and reduce local carbon emissions with their Renewable Electrification Community Forum on Sunday.

To be presented at the Memorial Hall at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, the forum will aim to promote the idea of electrifying everything possible with renewable energy as a way of saving money and tackling climate change Guest speakers including Indi MP Helen Haines and Rewiring Australia managing director, Kate Minter, will speak on their work in

advocating electrification in small homes and businesses and what improvements they would like to see.

Also speaking at the forum will be WLS member John Naylor, who said the free forum was open to all members of the public with local businesses and WLS members displaying some of the needs for electrification.

“What I’m going to talk about is the step by step processes people can use to make the change, we’re not talking about something instantaneous, it’s a change we anticipate in most cases will take a period of five to 10 years,” he said.

“There’s already people making the shift to mowing their lawns using electric power,

there’s a whole range of things where electricity will become the best option for how we run our lives.

“I think as the cost of electric cars come down we’re going to see that power from rooftops going more into car batteries.”

Almost one-third of Australian households are equipped with solar panels, the highest take up of rooftop solar in the world.

Mr Naylor said one of the biggest challenges in the transitioning to renewable energy is to ensure it is as equitable as possible across the community.

“What we’re hoping to get out of this forum is a way for the community to work together to make sure we get this electrifica-

tion process happening for people who are renting and in lowincome housing to spread it out beyond the 30 per cent of houses that are solar powered now,” he said.

“What we’ve got to face up and try to work our way through is to care for community; to help people who can’t make this shift on their own.

“The opportunity is here for us to do this in a community based way.

“The benefit for doing it for the community is if we can do it well, the savings that will flow from electrification in our community will enrich everyone.”

The forum will begin at 10am before concluding at 12:30pm.

ELECTRIFYING THE COMMUNITY: Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability members Russell Sully, Ann Brain and John Naylor are excited to present the Renewable Electrification Community Forum Sunday morning at the WPACC.

Kurt Hickling

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST: Northeast Health Wangaratta staff Bernadette Hammond, Libby Fifis, Scott Swanwick, Gavin Coppinger, Kim Bennetts and Andew Nitschke show off their crazy socks.

PHOTO:

Historical society plans new future

AFTER a very successful annual general meeting in March the Wangaratta Historical Society (WHS) is ready to take on the challenges of preserving the community’s history into the future.

Incoming president Prue Noble said a new-look committee with plenty of experience in community and civic affairs looks forward to continuing the work of previous committees and members.

“We really want to thank the retired committee members David Williams, Marcus Chick, Helen Al Helwani, Kevin Adams and Richard Grogan,” Prue said.

“The WHS and community are very grateful to the past committee who stepped up so that the society remained viable.

“As with many community organisations, the WHS has a

committed band of volunteers continuing the invaluable task of digitising the collection and we are working to ensure all appropriate procedures are in place to re-open the museum at Ford Street.

“The new committee is energised by the support received at the AGM, and has responded to the request that members contribute to the forward planning of the WHS by scheduling a general meeting for Monday, June 5 at the Uniting Church Hall, Rowan St from 6pm7pm followed by light refreshments.”

Joining Prue on the committee are vice president Jackie Creek, secretary Rosslyn Makin, treasurer Eileen Dinning, Paddy Milne, Geoff Dinning, and Wendy Leitch.

For more information contact Prue on 0428 454 303.

Crockery and lamp theft from AirBNB earns $500 fine

A LOCAL man involved in a major theft from a CBD AirBNB has been urged to reassess his relationship with drugs, after admitting he had been using methylamphetamine at the time of the offending.

Facing Wangaratta Magistrates‘ Court on Monday, the 31–year–old pleaded guilty to charges relating to the theft of items from a Murphy Street unit late last year, after the address was allegedly scout-

ed by a co–accused woman.

According to police prosecutor Sergeant Stuart Pritchard, the co–accused had first visited the unit in August, paying its owner in cash after a credit card belonging to another woman was declined.

When re–booking the same room in November, the co–accused and the defendant ransacked the address, stealing a hair drier, frypans,

crockery, saucepans, steak knives, bedside lamps and a vacuum among other items.

Sgt Pritchard said the unit‘s owner reported the theft to the police, who were able to recover the stolen items after attending and being invited into the defendant‘s home in November.

When interviewed, the defendant made full admissions, but told officers he had been unaware of the co–ac-

WANG BOOK FAIR

cused‘s plans and had been following her lead.

Defence lawyer Nancy Battiato said her client was “somewhat disappointed in himself” and had been affected by drugs at the time of the offending.

She noted the defendant had not been living with the co–accused, and had been forthcoming with police after being located in the wake of the offending.

Sgt Pritchard acknowledged the accused‘s conduct with police was worthy of a somewhat reduced sentence.

Magistrate Alexandra Burt agreed, but noted she had considered imposing an order for the defendant to seek alcohol and drug–related counselling.

“He doesn‘t have a flash criminal history,” she told the court.

“You know this was the

wrong thing to do.

“It seems clear to me that drugs have been a problem for you on this occasion, and probably in a wider sense.”

Ms Burt heard the accused had previously sought counselling for his drug addiction, and had been clean for some three months.

She elected to forego an order, instead fining the accused a total of $500 with conviction.

GUARDIANS OF OUR HERITAGE: Wangaratta Historical Society committee members (from left) Eileen Dinning (treasurer), Geoff Dinning, Prue Noble (president) and Paddy Milne at the Wangaratta Museum in Ford Street. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Siesta Cartel sing songs of their Italian heritage

GUESTS at Wangaratta’s Da Vinci Social Club (DVSC) will be treated to a unique sound inspired by Italian migration early next month, courtesy of Melbourne band Siesta Cartel.

Described as a ‘unifying musical movement’, the band consists of young Italians from Melbourne each endeavouring to preserve their culture and unite and entertain through the power of music.

Fresh off the release of their debut album

‘Canzoni Di Mio Padre’ (which translates to ‘songs of my father’) and a tour to the Puglia region of Italy, the group will travel to Wangaratta on July 1 to perform and continue to honour its Italian heritage.

Regular performers both locally and at festivals throughout the country, the group have amassed more than 3000 followers on Instagram and upwards of 15,000 views on YouTube.

Tickets cost $70 for DVSC members and $75 for non-members, and include a three course meal.

Doors open at 5.45pm with entrees to be served from 6.30pm.

Guests will also be able to dance to the music throughout the evening.

Tickets must be purchased ahead of the event.

To book, contact Pip on 0409 307 606, email dvsc.wang@gmail.com or visit https://www. eventbrite.com.au/e/siesta-cartel-live-at-davinci-tickets-623511448527.

Library book sale tomorrow

THE Friends of Wangaratta Library are holding a book sale this Saturday, June 3 from 9.30am to 12pm at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street.

There will be a large range of second-hand adult fiction, non-fiction and children’s books to choose from, with money raised assisting the library in providing programming and events.

Flower arranging in Cheshunt

LEARN to make your own native flower posy during a workshop being held at the Cheshunt Hall on Thursday, June 9 at 6.30pm.

Presented by Pangerang Community Hub, the workshop will be led by freelance florist Kodi Oke, who will teach some basics of flower arranging and floral design using locally sourced blooms.

Cost is $35 per person and bookings are essential on 5721 3813.

Learn about cultural policy at Wangaratta roundtable event

THE arts, entertainment and cultural community will have the chance to learn about the government’s new National Cultural Policy at a roundtable event to be hosted by Independent federal MP for Indi Helen Haines next week.

The Indi Cultural Policy Roundtable will be held on Tuesday, June 6 from 3pm to 4pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

The Federal Government’s Special Envoy for the Arts, Susan Templeman MP, will present how the

policy will benefit arts and culture organisations, followed by a Q&A session with Dr Haines and a representative from the Office for the Arts.

The new National Cultural Policy, Revive, aims to create a place for every story, and a story for every place, including in the regions.

“This is a fabulous opportunity for our arts, entertainment and cultural community to learn how to benefit from the policy and be part of its implementation,” Dr Haines said.

“We are so lucky to have a rich arts and culture scene in Indi.

“I want to support people and organisations across Indi and see our arts scene grow and thrive.

“I am looking forward to hearing from the people of Indi and working with our local organisations to make the most of this policy.”

Attendance at the roundtable is free but spots are limited.

To register go to events.humanitix.com/indi-cultural-policyroundtable.

HEAR ABOUT CULTURE POLICY: A Cultural Policy Roundtable event will be held on Tuesday, June 6 from 3pm to 4pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

SONGS OF MY FATHER: Italian-Australian musical group Siesta Cartel will perform at Wangaratta’s Da Vinci Social Club on July 1.

Power price frustration

THE mystery and growing frustration of many local residents surrounding the continued fall of their feed-in tariff price for solar was summed up earlier this week by Gabriel Stecher’s letter to the editor.

The Devenish resident has seen his payment from his electricity supplier tumble from 66c/kWh to just 5.4c/kWh while his electricity supplier continues to ramp up their own charges, currently at five times the amount per kWh.

So why has the feed-in tariff payment reduced so much?

According to Ben McGowan, managing director Indigo Power, the Essential Services Commission (ESC) does comprehensive modelling each year to determine what they think is a fair price for solar exports (feed-in).

This fair price is called the minimum feed-in tariff

The ESC modelling matches the minimum feed-in tariff to a wholesale electricity price for solar exports.

The National Electricity Market (NEM - wholesale market) now commonly has an oversupply of electricity during times of high solar production.

This means that the wholesale electricity price is very commonly negative during the middle of a sunny day.

The value of solar export, and the minimum feed-in tariff, have been dropping to match low

How to get the most out of your solar power H t g t th t t f y l p r

electricity prices in the NEM at times of high solar production.

The short answer is that solar electricity is worth less and less, and feed-in tariffs reflect this.

“Indigo Power is an electricity retail provider with about two thirds solar customers,” Mr McGowan said.

“To use our company as an example, on a sunny day, our customers generate much more electricity than we need.

“This means we are often exporting electricity to the NEM at times of negative prices.

“We are commonly buying power from customers at 5.2 c/ kWh and then having to pay 5c/kWh (-5c kWh) to sell that electricity to the NEM.

“We love solar customers and encourage people to install solar if they can, but we lose money when we buy electricity from our customers at 5.2 c/kWh.”

Mr McGowan said there are some plans that offer a higher feedin tariff, but these are normally offset by high electricity usage charges so what you might gain in solar feed-in tariff you lose as you pay more to draw from the grid.

“The market will continue to change so that electricity used outside of peak times is cheaper and peak times will be shorter,” he said.

“In 2021 the residential peak time in our area changed from

7am-11pm on a weekday, to 3pm9pm.

“The best way to save money is to avoid using power at this peak time, which is the same time as everyone else.

“Use timers for appliances or buy a battery to cover usage across this time.

“It is also a great idea to compare your electricity plan.

“Indigo Power has a bill compare service to help customers identify any possible cost savings in switching.”

Mr McGowan said the benefit of solar power to a household depends how you use your power.

“If you don’t use much electricity during the day, it’s worth thinking about solar and battery rather than solar on its own,” he said.

“We often advise people to replace their hot water system with a super efficient heat pump rather than put solar on as it’s a better way of reducing costs for many households.”

Mr McGowan said batteries allow people to store excess renewable energy, which now has little value when exported, and offset consumption across the peak period.

“The right sized battery will reduce a household’s consumption to almost zero,” he said.

“Prices are set to go up again this year so the business case is getting stronger and stronger.

“An average electricity bill might be between $2000-$3000 per annum, so savings are in this order.”

Mr McGowan said the cost to install a battery varies based on storage capacity available.

“The battery component of an installation may cost approximately $10,000 for 8kWh of storage,” Mr McGowan said.

“Larger batteries with more capacity can cost considerably more and if you are retrofitting onto an existing solar PV system, additional work and other equipment may be necessary.

“Adding a battery system can also allow for back-up of some light and power circuits therefore keeping the lights on in a power outage for a short time.”

Indigo Power projects manager Heath Shakespeare said batteries are becoming more attractive for the average household as power prices continue to rise.

“There is a new market developing for battery customers to create extra value by participating in a virtual power plant (VPP),” he said.

A VPP is a way of aggregating a whole lot of smaller batteries to capture financial benefit.

This might be in responding to peak times in the market,

stabilising frequency in the grid, or delivering services to the grid operator to assist in grid reliability.

These services have a value and the residential battery user would see a payment on their bill, or through another means, for participating.

“These VPPs are in their infancy but are developing quickly,” Mr Shakespeare said.

“There are solar battery rebates of up to $2950 available until June 30 in Victoria provided that the solar and battery contractor is registered with the Solar Victoria programs (refer to https://www. solar.vic.gov.au/solar-batteryrebate for further information).”

Mr McGowan said the electricity industry was in transition and electricity tariff structures were changing as well.

“People shouldn’t view the feed-in tariffs and electricity tariffs they see right now as fixed or stable across the long term but they will look completely different five or 10 years from now,” he said.

• Indigo Power will be at the Wangaratta Memorial Hall this Sunday from 9.30am to 12.30pm as a part of the Renewable Electrification event.

Feel free to take your power bill along to compare with Indigo Power’s retail offer, or talk to them about their energy resilience, community battery and pumped hydro energy storage projects.

MYSTERY EXPLAINED: If you are confused about the best way to approach your electricity visit the Renewable Electrification event this Sunday at the Wangaratta Memorial Hall at WPACC. Pictured are stakeholders and members of the community at the launch of the Yackandandah battery in 2021.

Gardening for wildlife this weekend

THE Greta Valley Landcare Group, supported by Rural City of Wangaratta, will host a full day workshop called Gardening for Wildlife in Moyhu on Sunday.

There will be sessions on designing and planting to attract wildlife, the benefits of pet enclosures, creating nesting boxes for birds and mammals and attracting pollinators, as well as growing native plants from cuttings and seedlings, with morning, afternoon or full day attendance available.

It will be held at the Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall from 9.30am until 3.30pm with tickets available at via Humanitix at https://events. humanitix.com/gardening-forwildlife-gvlg.

Everybody dance with BABBA

DANCING queens of all ages will enjoy a night to remember when BABBA plays at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tomorrow night.

For 24 years, BABBA have been thrilling audiences with their superb re-creation of the seventies super group ABBA and the legacy of hits they gave the world.

Complete with glitz, glamour

and Swedish accents, BABBA’s Benny, Bjorn, Agnetha and Frida will take you on a musical journey through time, with tickets on sale now at www. wpacc.com.au.

Historic racing at Winton

THE 43rd Historic Winton, Australia’s longest running, all-historic motor race meeting will be held at Winton Motor Raceway this weekend. The event is famous for its camaraderie and great views of the entire track with historic car, motorcycle and

sidecar races as well as car park displays and a massive market.

With camping also available trackside, more information can be found at www. historicwinton.org.

52 Actions exhibition at the gallery

ARTSPACE Sydney’s acclaimed exhibition 52 ACTIONS is on national tour, visiting the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

The exhibition features

works from 52 Australian artists and collectives across generations, geographies and cultural backgrounds who, working in a wide variety of mediums, highlight the diversity, complexity and dynamism of contemporary Australian art.

The exhibition runs until Sunday.

Superpicture: Tristan Chant in Gallery 2

Superpicture is an exhibition which follows the

GET READING:

Pick up a novel or choose an entertaining picture book for a family member or friend, when the Friends of Wangaratta Library hold a book sale tomorrow morning from 9.30am to 12pm at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street. Library coordinator Lou Twyford and Netty Hanley (pictured) say there are a wide variety of secondhand books to choose from, with non-fiction books also in the mix. It’s the perfect time to take shelter inside and catch up on a bit of reading, and funds raised from the book sale assist the library in providing programming and events.

Dadaist tradition of images quoting other images and looks at the relationship between images and art more broadly.

Created by multidisciplinary artist Tristan Chant who works across print, collage and textile mediums, the works examine authorship and originality through the juxtaposition of found images appropriated from both high and low culture, and the mobility of photography in art production.

The exhibition is on display until June 11.

Wangaratta community market

THE Wangaratta community market will run every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.

There will be a wide range of stalls to browse and refreshments available.

Stalls are available for $25 each (must have own market stall insurance) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling

Lions back new respite for kids

Friday, May 31, 2013

By STEVE KELLY

WANGARATTA’ S new facility to help young people on the brink of family breakdown has received a $10,000 boost from the Wangaratta Lions Club.

The club made the donation this week, adopting the kitchen at NESAY’s linX2Home facility as its major local project.

The kitchen is in the heart of newly created accommodation, which aims to help children with family and personal issues.

Young people will be able to go there to seek respite intervention, and they, along with their families, will be able to tap into a wide range of support.

The linX2Home program proposes support services, aimed at people under 18, who have just become homeless or are at imminent risk of

homelessness and school disengagement because of family issues.

NESAY chief executive officer, Glen James, said the program is for people on the brink of family breakdown, who are not in the child protection or justice systems.

“The accommodation facility offers time out and NESAY works with the young person talking about strategies, behavioral change, expectations, education and social competencies,” Ms James said.

“We work with families

about parenting and support because a lot of families have many issues.”

Ms James said there is no one type of family which experiences difficulties - they’re from many socio-economic backgrounds.

Lions club secretary Bill Michalowski said there has been a lot said about youth in society causing trouble and the linX2Home program is going to try and prevent this.

“A lot of people who find themselves in various forms of trouble seem to

lack support and the focus has generally been on the child,” he said.

“But sometimes parents haven’t got the necessary support to help the child and linX2Home can help the entire family, including siblings, which has a flow on effect through the whole community.”

If any business or individual would like to make a tax deductible donation to NESAY for the purchase of whitegoods at the linX2Home accommodation facility call 57202201.

THE Wangaratta RSPCA currently have plenty of options for your new playmate/s. For more information or to meet any of the kittens, cats, dogs, puppies and rabbits the Wangaratta RSPCA currently have available, call (03) 5722 2874 or visit the shelter and find your new special friend.

Wangaratta RSPCA’s source code is #BR100934.

Cats:

 Short hair, black, male, 2 years, 956000016678597, ‘Beau’;

 Short hair, tabby, female, 6 years, 956000016640091, ‘Cindy’;

 Short hair, white, male, 1 year, 956000015933496, ‘Ophilia’;

 Short hair, white, male, 1 year, 956000016637988, ‘Shadow’;

 Medium hair, ginger, female, 1 year, 956000016640670, ‘Shannon’;

 Medium hair, tabby, female, 4 years, 956000016637832, ‘Zarla’;

 Short hair, black, female, 9 months, 956000016705248, ‘Zelda’

Kittens:

 Short hair, tabby, female, 3 months, 956000016653604, ‘Daisy’;

 Short hair, black, female, 11 weeks, 956000016637958, ‘Iris’;

 Short hair, black, male, 9 weeks, 956000016703457, ‘Jordan’;

 Short hair, tabby, female, 3 months, 956000016678585, ‘Lily’;

 Short hair, tabby, female, 3 months, 956000016653811, ‘Lucy’;

 Medium hair, tabby, female, 3 months, 956000016638261, ‘Luna’;

 Short hair, smoke tabby, male, 11 weeks, 956000016638229, ‘Poseidon’;

 Short hair, black, female, 3 months, 956000016641589, ‘Weekend’.

Dogs:

 Kelpie, black, male, 1 year, 956000016705495, ‘Blackie’;

 Staffordshire bull terrier, male, black, 7 months, 956000016639052, ‘Merks’;

 American Staffordshire terrier, female, black, 956000016674147, ‘Rosie’;

 Siberian Husky, black, male, 1 year, 953010100209966, ‘Socks’.

PHOTO: RSPCA

WANGARATTA RSPCA

NESAY chief executive officer Glen James (front), Wangaratta Lions Club president Graham Whitehead, secretary Bill Michalowski and vice president Ron Sneddon with a $10,000 donation for a new kitchen at NESAY’s yet to be opened linX2Home facility.

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Peregrine Falcon - a turbo-charged hunter

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

THE Peregrine Falcon is the fastest bird in the world, swooping down at speeds of up to 300kp/h.

Flying at such speed has inherent dangers, as they occasionally collide with overhead wires, which is usually fatal at such speeds.

Peregrine Falcons now live in several of our major cities, nesting on ledges of skyscrapers and mostly feeding on the introduced Rock Pigeons

Peregrine Falcons are powerfully built raptors, with a black hood, blue-black upperparts and creamy white chin, throat and underparts, which are finely barred from the breast to the tail.

The long-tapered wings have a straight trailing edge in flight and the tail is relatively short.

The eye-ring is yellow, with the heavy bill also yellow, tipped black.

These Falcons look similar to the smaller Hobby but are more robust and their flight is characterised by shallow wing-beats,

compared with the often deeper and more rapid wing-beats of the smaller Hobby.

The Peregrine Falcon is found across Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas but are not common anywhere. They are found in most habitats, from rainforests to the arid zone, and at most altitudes, from the coast to alpine areas.

It requires abundant prey and secure nest sites, and locally prefers inland cliffs or open woodlands near water.

The Peregrine Falcon feeds on small and medium-sized birds, as well as rabbits and other day-active mammals.

They swoop down on their prey from above, catching or stunning it with its powerfully hooked talons, before grasping and carrying it off to a perch to pluck and eat it.

They will pursue flying birds, being able to fly at speeds of up to 300kp/h, and they soar to a

great height in search of prey.

Peregrine Falcon pairs maintain a large home range of about 20km to 30km square throughout the year.

Rather than building a nest, eggs are laid in recesses of cliff faces, tree hollows or in the large, abandoned nests of other birds.

The female incubates the eggs and is fed by the male on the nest.

When the young have hatched, both parents hunt to provide food.

Young Peregrine Falcons disperse widely, but often return to their original home area to breed when mature.

In our region Peregrine Falcons may be seen hunting in the vicinity of towns where there are large feral Rock Pigeon populations or large wetlands, especially when waterfowl are common and flying high above the woodland canopy wherever honeyeaters and other small birds are found.

Their harsh chattering calls often attract us and may be heard 100 metres below.

HIGH DIVER: Peregrine Falcon starting its dive.

PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

Leaders program funding loss

COMMUNITY organisation Alpine Valleys Community Leadership (AVCL) was bitterly disappointed State Government funding for Regional Community Leadership programs will cease from June 30, which includes the annual program.

Despite no further funding from July 1, AVCL will continue to deliver the 2023 annual program drawing upon all possible resources to do so.

AVCL chair Judy Charlton said the participants of the 2023 annual

program will not be disadvantaged by the budget decision.

“We look forward to the outstanding work of this program continuing,” she said.

The AVCL annual program is part of a broader statewide network of nine Victorian Regional Community Leadership Programs and AVCL said this decision comes as a blow to all regional communities.

Ms Charlton said the network

Million Paws Walk raises almost $7000 for RSPCA Wangaratta

RAIN didn’t deter about 60 people and 40 dogs who helped raise almost $7000 for the RSPCA through registrations and fundraising at the Wangaratta’s Million Paws Walk last Sunday. Funds raised help

the RSPCA provide sheltering, behavioural rehabilitation and medical treatment, and rehoming for more than 13,000 homeless, abused and neglected animals who come through RSPCA Victoria’s doors each year.

will now urgently work with Regional Development Victoria to look at any possible support that may be available to assist the programs as they continue to deliver their commitments in 2023.

She said nearly 500 participants have graduated from AVCL’s annual leadership program which commenced in 1999.

Ms Charlton said many of these people have gone on to senior leadership roles in Victoria and na-

tionally, as well as providing grass roots leadership in North East and Border communities.

A study in 2022 concluded that annually more than $158M of statewide public value was delivered through the RCLP Alumni and program participants.

Ms Charlton said AVCL has been preparing for the possibility of losing state funding, including recently attaining endorsement as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) and Public

Benevolent Institution (PBI).

“For the AVCL annual program to continue in 2024 and beyond, we will need to do so without government funding and rely totally on corporate, philanthropic and community support,” she said.

“AVCL will consult with key stakeholders in the coming months to develop a strategy for continuing a community leadership program so this valuable service is not lost to our region.”

BRAVING THE WEATHER: There were a few stalls at the Million Paws walk for dog owners to look at prior to the start time.

OFF FOR A WALK: Jane Foley and Paul Evans with their dog Jess.

ROLLING IN: Shane and Mel McDonald with their dog Viper.

PERFECT PUGS: Alicia Noble with her dogs Lola and Lulu.

PHOTOS: Steve Kelly

DRENCHED: Colette Solf and Shae Frasca with their dogs Devon and Mack.

Remembering Sr Mary

PARISHIONERS at Our Lady’s Catholic parish in Wangaratta welcomed the family of late Brigidine Sister Sr Mary Griffiths on Sunday, as the White Street church’s gathering room was named in her honour.

Sr Mary, who passed away in 2017, became closely linked to the parish in 2004, when she moved into the presbytery adjoining Our Lady’s.

She not only oversaw the administration of the church, but helped create a thriving parish community, and was well-known for the way she deeply listened to all people and made them feel welcome and cared-for.

Though the gathering room was the vision of Fr James Byrne (the first parish priest of Our Lady’s), it was Sr Mary who was instrumental in bringing it to fruition, so it’s fitting that it is now named the Sr Mary Griffiths Gathering Room.

Parishioners were joined in the unveiling of a plaque in the room by Sr Mary’s brother, Joe Griffiths, and other members of the extended family, as well as seven Brigidine Sisters from Melbourne, Echuca and Euroa (Sr Margaret Duffy, Sr Celie Nihill, Sr Gail Ryan, Sr Cecilia Merrigan, Sr Anne Boyd, Sr Kathleen Woodruff and Sr Bernadine Kelly) and local priests Fr Nathan Verallo and Monsignor Cris Manongas.

After welcoming those present and sharing a brief history of Sr Mary’s involvement in the parish, Our Lady’s parishioner Deb Doyle invited Joe Griffiths to share stories of Sr Mary’s child-

BUON COMPLEANNO:

The Corsini family and friends gathered at La Cantina King Valley on Saturday, May 20 to celebrate the 90th birthday of Gino Corsini. Gino was delighted to welcome family members who had travelled from across Victoria and Queensland to celebrate the milestone birthday, with more than 100 people gathering at the cellar door for the special event, catered by Remel 185. Gino was born on May 15, 1933 in Bagni di Lucca, Italy, and last year celebrated 70 years in Australia.

hood growing up outside Beechworth.

Some of the Brigidine Sisters also shared their recollections of living with Sr Mary in Echuca, Papua New Guinea and Our Lady’s parish.

Following Joe’s unveiling of a plaque honouring Sr Mary’s contribution to Our Lady’s, the Brigidine Sisters joined in the cutting of the celebratory cake.

The morning tea that followed echoed Sr Mary’s strong and gentle spirit, which remains part of the Our Lady’s parish community.

HELPING SUPPORT PASTURES ON YOUR FARM

SAFETY FIRST: Police are urging drivers to be prepared for icy conditions ahead of this year’s snow season.

Public safety priority for police

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

LOCAL police are urging visitors to the Alpine region to keep themselves, and others, safe as snow season begins.

Bright Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll said police turned around up to 5700 cars last year because vehicles were unprepared for conditions at alpine resorts.

“We’re trying to reach the Melbourne cohort to make sure they’re aware of the correct preparations such as carrying chains,” he said.

“Chains are critical at all resorts and police will be actively checking that, with penalties ranging from $370 to $970.

“We’d also like to demonstrate clientele going to Hotham has changed, particularly last year, so have patience on the roads.

“We’ve had a safety protocol since 2010 that has been enhanced in the last couple of years to be more preventative and proactive-based so rather than reacting to cars being stuck, we close the Great Alpine Road before that happens.

“When there are triggers such as snow predicted down to 600m, extreme winds or blizzards predicted we initiate an emergency management team meeting between stakeholders to close the road.

“It’s worked really well in the past so people can expect the Great Alpine Road between Harrietville and Mount Hotham will be shut so snow clearers can clear the road and ensure safe progress for visitors.

“It’s so important during winter that people are properly prepared, safety is paramount.”

Snr Sgt Incoll said even on Sunday recent snowfall had closed the Great Alpine Road between Harrietville and Mount Hotham, with the icy roads causing two minor vehicle collisions.

“It’s not unexpected in May, but people need to be prepared when they head up there,” he said.

He urged all visitors to check the road and weather conditions before visiting the alpine resorts by going to the VicRoads, Bureau of Meteorology or resort websites.

DEDICATION: Sr Mary’s brother, Joe Griffiths, unveils the plaque naming the community room after his sister.

REMEMBERING MARY: Brigidine Sisters Sr Margaret Duffy, Sr Celie Nihill, Sr Gail Ryan, Sr Cecilia Merrigan, Sr Anne Boyd, Sr Kathleen Woodruff and Sr Bernadine Kelly joined the celebration in the new Sr Mary Griffiths Gathering Room on Sunday, and were invited to cut the cake for morning tea.

6TH JUNE 2023

MEET; LIVESTOCK AGENT REILEY MURTAGH

Putting Winton Wetlands on the global map

EXPERTS in wetland management and science will be gathering later this month for the annual Winton Wetlands Science Forum, focusing on international recognition of Australia’s wetlands.

The Winton Wetlands has been working towards the achievement of an international listing for the ambitious Winton Wetlands restoration project, which is one of the biggest and most significant in the southern hemisphere.

The project has so far been listed as a ‘Wetland of Distinction’, the first outside the USA.

Project experts look to use the forum to share lessons being learned from the process so far, and ensure other wetland projects can also benefit from what is being learned both at Winton and elsewhere in ongoing efforts to repair natural ecosystems and gain

more recognition for the vital work under way.

This year’s forum, to be held on June 29, will be packed into a single day, a change from previous events which have been spread over two days.

Experts due to speak at the forum include leading policymakers within the Australian and Victorian governments as well as nationally known wetlands researchers.

According to organisers, the forum will provide not just an opportunity for wetland experts and land managers to hear from people who drive public policy and researchers, but also an opportunity to ask questions and add perspectives of their own.

One of the key objectives of the annual event is to give people working in this field the opportunity to have input into the growing body of shared

knowledge on how best to conserve and restore natural wetland systems, land clearing and other issues.

Conference organiser and wetland ecologist, Lance Lloyd, said the event was an important one in the annual calendar for people working in the field, and many come from far and wide to attend.

“This is one of the best opportunities available for experts in their field to come together, share their knowledge for everyone’s benefit and help shape emerging practices and policies - and it happens right here in north-east Victoria, so we’re very proud of it,” he said.

Mr Lloyd said the event was open to anyone interested in the work going on - not just wetland scientists.

For more details go to the Winton Wetlands websitewww.wintonwetlands.org.au.

MP tells of why she raised concerns

By STEVE KELLY

INDI MP Helen Haines has explained why she stood up for Greens MP Max ChandlerMather after poor treatment of the Griffith MP when debating the Housing Australia Future Fund Bill.

Dr Haines made a complaint to Speaker of the House of Representatives,

Milton Dick, about two months ago regarding the behaviour of members of the government toward the Member for Griffith in Question Time.

“I have long advocated for improvement of the standard of behaviour in federal politics, including for a code of conduct for MPs, which has now been

agreed to,” Dr Haines said.

“I approached the Speaker of the House after an incident in the chamber which I felt breached the code of conduct, where the attacks were vicious and personal.

“They crossed the line.”

Dr Haines said she has noticed improvement in the behaviour of members since her complaint.

NEW DAWN: The Ashmeads Swamp is a part of the huge Winton Wetlands restoration project in the North East which will be discussed at the annual Winton Wetlands Science Forum later this month.

northeast health wangaratta

Major works take Northeast Health Wangaratta to next level

THE busiest organisation in Wangaratta has celebrated its 150th birthday and now its $22.9 million redevelopment is complete.

It took a colossal performance from all those involved including the dedicated Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) staff who front up each day to serve the region’s community.

Changes to high traffic locations in the organisation have made accessibility first class for patients and staff, with the emergency department alone treating almost 30,000 per annum.

The project delivered 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.

To meet future demand and ensure shorter waiting times for patients needing urgent care, the redevelopment also delivered an upgraded emergency department with additional treatment spaces as well as an isolation room and behavioural assessment room.

Zauner Constructions took on the job with the first sod of the project turned in April 2021 by Attorney General Jaclyn Symes and the construction company has been “outstanding” in its delivery.

Prior to the hospital, Zauner, a 67-year established company from Albury, had built projects worth up to $80 million, including across the North East and Border region.

David Ford, NHW director, pharmacy and redevelopment, has been the front man overseeing the hospital upgrade.

The redevelopment’s planning began back in 2017 and it’s been a long journey for all of the people involved in the project.

Mr Ford said there were bushfires, floods and COVID all in the middle of the project, making the logistics of the works all the more difficult.

“There have been lots of challenges to get over but now

we’re at the end of it, it has been an extremely successful project - it was completed on time, completed within budget, the contractor partners and the consultant team were just exceptional and the builders,

Zauner, were just outstanding,” Mr Ford said.

“The finish has been brilliant, with an Ambulance Victoria write-up room, a new eightbed short stay unit, and a new emergency department which

has more cubicles.

“There are six negative pressure rooms across several wards, and there’s a 12-bed intensive care unit which is now state of the art.

■ Continued page 24

The doctors and nurses do an outstanding job at North East Health - this upgrade will support them to continue to provide quality care to the community now and into the future.

PLACE TO WORK: David Ford, NHW director, pharmacy and redevelopment, has overseen the works to ugrade Northeast Health Wangaratta’s infrastructure and he’s delightfully impressed with the finished product.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Locals make up a large portion at our city’s largest employer

LOCAL employment opportunities are being given another boost with Northeast Health Wangaratta estimating its redeveloped spaces will deliver employment opportunities across nursing, allied health and support services in the next six months.

While recruitment to clinical positions remains a challenge across Australia, NHW says it is working to put its best foot forward to showcase the variety of career opportunities available for people locally and wanting to relocate to the region.

Executive director of people and corporate operations, Kim Bennetts, said the increase in bed numbers had a cascading effect across clinical and support services.

“The increase in beds means we can accommodate more patients and we are recruiting for additional nurses, physicians, allied health workforce and support services to meet our operational requirements,” Ms Bennetts said.

“There are opportunities for social workers, physios, OTs, dieticians, positions in food services, maintenance, IT and our cleaning team - and we absolutely need more nurses.”

The service is highlighting incentives including attractive salary packaging, which is available to the full workforce, whether in clinical or support roles, which Ms Bennetts said was becoming more important as people consider cost of living when making career choices.

“Healthcare offers attractive salary packaging options that are available to the entire workforce and substantially increase someone’s take-home pay,” she said.

“People can salary package a range of expenses, or simplify it through a debit card for general expenses, as well as a separate option for meals and entertainment.

“Workers seeking to relocate can utilise salary packaging to cover a host of relocation expenses including removalists, transport, temporary accommodation, stamp duty, legal fees and more.”

As the largest employer in Wangaratta - with more than 1600 staff, NHW said it was pleased to resume some of the community connections that had been suspended during COVID.

“We’ve welcomed new volunteers, reinstated our school work experience program, we have school-based apprenticeships and a really strong intern and graduate program to support people training in healthcare,” Ms Bennetts said.

“Our education team works with schools, TAFE and universities on engaging to showcase to young people the opportunities in healthcare, and the diversity of career options.”

In addition to clinical roles, NHW is currently advertising positions for a chief engineer, cook, electrician, switchboard reception, and two positions as part of its digital health project.

Major works take Northeast Health Wangaratta to next level

■ From page 23

“There are an additional 11 medical beds in the medical ward and a brand new peadiatrics ward with eight beds with single rooms, with ensuites, and parent accommodation in every room.

This is a great upgrade from a ward that used to have rooms that were all shared and now give the privacy to children and their families during what can be a difficult time.

An updated and modified maternity ward and special care nursery has also been built to make the experience better for patients, babies and staff

Mr Ford said it’s been a massive project and it has extended the hospital’s bed capacity and given an overall update to the building’s infrastructure and equipment.

He said the ICU and paediatrics ward are state of the art and the emergency department has the latest layout creating more fluent access for patients and it has streamlined workflow for staff

“The extra beds and spaces means we’ve got extra capacity to deal with the ever increasing number of people who come to this hospital,” Mr Ford said.

The maternity ward has a huge workload with more than 700 babies born each year and the facility only has six beds.

Mr Ford explained that the catchment is between 90,000 and 100,000 people but as people come to Wangaratta, the valley, the mountains or the river to retire, the patient cohort are generally elderly.

“Because they’re elderly they have multiple co-morbidities, they’re living longer and living healthier and particularly during winter there is a significant increase in respiratory illnesses,” he reported.

“We’re dealing with COVID, influenza, RSV infections and general people getting sick in winter.

“We have between 80 and 100 presentations in the ED per day, and from 25-30 ambulances most days.

“We have additional spaces in the ED

Offering a broad range of services for all your commercial, residential and industrial needs – specialising in commercial plastering & suspended ceilings. We pride ourselves in offering a high-quality service while maintaining flexibility and reliability.

acute area, an eight-bed short stay unit, and the former oncology unit being used as a clean ED where people can be assessed and discharged in a timely manner.”

The hospital’s ability to attract new workers has also improved as Mr Ford said the hospital can show prospective employees all the latest facilities and equipment on offer.

“Having good facilities certainly doesn’t do any harm in retaining and attracting staff,” he said.

“These new spaces are exceptional, if you see the ICU it’s absolutely brilliant, the paediatric ward is fantastic and the ED has been completely revitalised with how it looks.”

Within the facilities it’s also not just more beds that have come but more spaces for staff such as lunch and meeting rooms.

“It doesn’t sound much but it’s actually really important for staff wellbeing and staff wanting to come to work,” Mr Ford said.

“Guaranteed quality workmanship & 100% customer satisfaction”

DELICIOUS FOOD: Michael Fitzgerald enjoys cooking up a storm in the Northeast Health Wangaratta kitchen.

PRIVACY: A room in the paediatrics ward.

ICU: The intensive care unit has been rebuilt to provide more spacious access. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

A whole world of opportunity for registered nurses Amie and Carl

IN the competitive recruitment market, lifestyle factors are increasingly becoming a point of difference for healthcare services trying to entice workers to regional roles. Health services across the country are looking internationally to boost their workforce numbers and NHW said it was no different and was working with local partners like the Rural City of Wangaratta on marketing the lifestyle of the region as part of its recruitment strategy.

“We know that people really appreciate the wonderful lifestyle offerings here, including our food and wine regions, ski fields, watersports and outdoor recreation,” Libby Fifis, chief executive officer at NHW, said.

“The market for recruitment in healthcare is probably the most competitive it’s ever been, so we’re working hard to put forward our points of difference and ensuring aligning our workforce strategies with people’s aspirations for work/ life balance, professional satisfaction and career development.”

Two staff who can attest to enjoying the regional lifestyle are registered nurses, Carl Paculba and Amie Pagador, who are both on four-year working visas sponsored by NHW.

Carl and Amie have been partners for 11 years, having met at university in the Philippines.

Carl relocated to NHW from the Philippines two years ago and was joined recently by Amie, who is now in her third week as part of the NHW nursing pool.

Carl spent eight years nursing in Cebu and Amie spent five years nursing in medical surgery wards before moving to Dubai for six years and then completing her accreditation training in New Zealand and Australia.

“I feel like I belong already,” Amie said of her first weeks in a new country and new job.

“In the Philippines there is a real hierarchy, but here everyone works as a close team and you feel like you are welcome.

“My experience so far is that it’s the care that matters more than the position you hold, and everyone is working towards the same thing.”

“The people here are very respectful and

approachable,” Carl said.

Of making their home together in the North East, Carl and Amie said the established Filipino community had helped them settle in and make new friends.

“It gave us a foundation to make friends and feel comfortable, and we’ve enjoyed getting to know more people which has been easy because the people are so supportive,” Carl said.

On balancing the stresses of working in healthcare, Carl and Amie said they enjoy exploring the local region on their days off

“We tour around, go to the wineries. Wangaratta is surrounded by wonderful places, and there is always something to do,” Carl said.

“I appreciate nature and the sense that I am breathing clean air,” Amie said.

“Nature gives calmness so I like walking around the

neighbourhood.

“It’s just different to me from the places I have worked before and I love it.

“We’re been telling our friends who work in nursing that they should come here, but to be prepared for the cold as it will take some getting used to.”

When asked what prompted them to pursue careers in nursing, both Carl and Amie said it was the personal care that gives them

great satisfaction.

“There is a satisfaction in what we are doing that will uplift you. How you provide the care, when patients need your support and you can hold their hand and help them feel a bit more comfortable,” Amie said.

Carl comes from a family of seafarers but said it was his mother that encouraged him to be a nurse.

“My mother wanted to be a nurse, so she passed that on to me,” he said.

“When I became a nurse, it was like a spark and I just love it.”

After six years working in different countries and COVID separating the couple for two years, Carl and Amie said it was great to be in the same spot and both enjoying their careers together.

As part of the nursing pool, they work across wards and said it suited their goals for now.

“I like working across the wards, and this suits me to learn and work across the different parts of the hospital,” Carl said.

“It’s finally great to be in the same place. It’s a peaceful town, the community is safe. And it’s so close to Melbourne. So it’s very nice.”

PARTNERS: Amie Pagador and Carl Paculba are both on four-year working visas sponsored by Northeast Health Wangaratta.

Finishing touches in ICU are state of the art

The intensive care unit at Northeast Health Wangaratta is the newest in regional Victoria with the latest fittings and equipment to give patients the best care in a spacious environment.

We are thrilled to be a part of the North East Health Redevelopment with the interior and exterior painting of the Paediatric, Medical, Maternity, and Emergency Wards’. Being able to assist the community with our job is such an honour. We are grateful that Zauner Construction gave us the chance to participate in this project.

The redevelopment at Northeast Health Wangaratta is a wonderful addition to our valuable health service. The dedicated health professionals have served our community for 150 years and will continue to do so for decades to come.

PHOTOS: Simon Dallinger

A sitting room gives mothers a chance sit up and feed their babies.

Meeting rooms allow for time out.

Storage in the paediatrics ward offers activities and a child friendly environment for patients and their parents.

Spacious corridors and doorways have opened up movement and access in the hospital.

A hydro bath is a new addition in the maternity ward to assist mothers during labour.

An external view of the new paediatric ward during construction.

The emergency department frame during construction.

The structure of the now complete intensive care unit.

Baby monitor stations provide the best care after babies are born.

PHOTOS: Simon Dallinger

Kelly trials project a goer

By RYAN MALCOLM

BEECHWORTH’S courthouse and Kelly Trials exhibition has been given the all-clear to commence installation, after passing rigorous testing by Heritage Victoria (HV).

The project was last week granted a heritage permit, with Indigo Shire Council’s (ISC) cultural heritage and project team to commence works at the Ford Street site between July and September, with an eye to opening

the exhibition before the end of the year.

A council spokesperson said the permit application had been based on rigorous heritage assessments and had contained a commitment to minimising building impact and ensuring all exhibition installations were reversible.

Having served as a key location for more than 40 trials and hearings for the Kelly Gang and its sympathisers between 1878 and 1880, the Beechworth Courthouse project will combine traditional

museum displays, original artefacts, museum signage and digital projections to allow visitors to reflect on the courthouse’s importance.

Indigo Shire Mayor Sophie Price said with initial planning around the project beginning in 2018, it was exciting for the exhibition to be nearing its completion.

“The heritage permit is a really big hurdle to clear, because it’s really important that we put professional conversation and heritage assessment right at the forefront of

what we’re doing,” she said.

“Any improvement or modernisation to these sorts of exhibits we’d like to provide absolutely needs to stand up to what HV says is the best standard, so we’re really pleased to see that we fit in line with that and that we’ve got the all-clear now.

“This was one of our top priorities, to absolutely be able to satisfy that authority because that’s the fabric of what this whole thing is – we’re trying to provide a really exciting exhibition that’s a really good addi-

tion to the whole Beechworth Historic Precinct.

“Indigo Shire is really proud of our heritage and our history and it’s one of our main pillars in terms of our tourism offering as well, so it’s really important that we never weaken any of that.”

As part of the installation, conservation works will be undertaken to preserve building fittings, carpets, painting and restore aging electrics, with the courthouse to be temporarily closed throughout.

Ms Price said council

Removal of tree leaves residents stumped

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@

WANDILIGONG residents are incensed by a recent round of tree pruning through the village, allegedly by power company AusNet, with a treasured apple tree suffering a particularly hard prune.

The tree on Centenary Avenue, which local residents said is one of the oldest apple trees in the valley, is now a stump just above ground level.

Stems from the base of the trunk show a few leaves, but they are the tree’s only signs of life.

“That just looks like it’s been butchered,” local Joshua Wood said while he was out walking his golden retriever.

“It definitely takes a little bit of the beauty out of the area.”

Examination of the stump and log showed the inside of the tree was quite rotten, however, locals said the tree appeared healthy before being sawn down.

President of the Wandiligong Preservation Society Robyn Wood, said the tree was half the height of the powerlines and questioned why it was cut down.

Locals were unable to specify the tree’s age, but Ms Wood described it as

“ancient,” and said the Centenary Avenue tree was larger than an apple tree she has at home that she believes was planted in the 1930s.

“It still fruited and you’d smile when you went by because here was this old apple tree by itself doing its thing,” she said.

Wandiligong resident Kevin Woods said the recent ministrations of

AusNet contractors to protect a nearby powerline had left the liquidambar tree on his property looking like a “straight stick”.

He suggested they could have left some arm-length branches to give the tree some balance.

“That was a beautiful tree - now it looks like a lamp post,” he said.

The tree pruning in

Wandiligong follows a recent outcry over similar pruning in Harrietville some weeks ago along the avenue of trees at the northern entrance to the town.

An AusNet spokeswoman said the Centenary Avenue apple tree was removed as it was rubbing and putting pressure on the aerial wire that supports the adjacent power pole.

was constantly looking at ways to effectively strike a balance between tourism and heritage preservation throughout the shire.

“We’ve got some really strong advocates for maintaining the heritage of our shire, and I think that’s really important,” she said.

For more information on the Kelly Trials project, visit https://www.indigoshire.vic. gov.au/Residents/Projectsworks/Current-projects/ Beechworth-CourthouseKelly-Trials-Project.

Nagambie stud buys $40m worth of horses

By DARREN CHAITMAN

YU Long Investments, whose Yulong Stud is based in Nagambie, has purchased 60 mares for $33.466 million and 12 weanlings for $3.47 million at this year’s National Broodmare Sale and National Weanling Sale.

The stud’s biggest purchases at the Gold Coast sales were mares Forbidden Love for $4.1m, Snapdancer for $3.2m and Isotope for $2.3m.

Yu Long Investments

chief operating officer Sam Fairgray said he was pleased to be adding “some really nice quality mares” to the stud’s large brood mare band.

“Mr Yuesheng Zhang who owns Yu Long, over the last five years has gone about building a stud farm in Nagambie where we have 3500 acres,” Mr Fairgray said.

“AusNet undertakes pruning and vegetation works in the interest of community safety and reliability of the electrical supply,” she said.

“The assessment and cutting functions of our vegetation management program are undertaken by personnel that have obtained nationally recognised qualifications.”

“This year we’ll have seven stallions and we’re getting close to having 600 brood mares.

“It’s probably the biggest brood mare band in Australia and would be the highest quality brood mares in Australia, as well.”

Mr Fairgray said billionaire owner Mr Zhang wants to build an internationally renowned stud farm based here in Victoria, which will also include racing stock with a racing team that could be as large as 200 horses.

TO THE GROUND: Joshua Wood, with golden retriever Reef, questioned why this Wandiligong apple tree needed to be cut down by Ausnet in their latest round of tree pruning.

nemedia.com.au

Native logging gets chop

Native timber logging won’t exist in Vicroria in 2024.

Last week’s Victorian State Budget announced the acceleration of plans to scrap the industry, a decision that has received backlash and praise from a variety of stakeholders.

Instead of ceasing operations in 2030 as previously planned, the industry will now grind to a halt by January of 2024.

This also comes after the Victorian Supreme Court found government-owned VicForests failed to protect threatened species of gliders in November, halting their logging operations.

The decision to end native logging early has received a variety of responses from interested and invested groups, with some praising the government’s actions and others condemning them.

State MP for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, said it is a devastating blow to the 2500 timber workers and the regional families and townships that rely on native timber harvesting.

“This announcement came completely out of the blue,” she said.

“Industry workers were expecting a six-year transition period but instead have been whacked with a sixmonth transition.

“This is a blow that will be felt not just locally but also across all Victoria, impacting employment, trades, manufacturing, local economies, and hard-working families.”

BY SAMUEL O’BRIEN sobrien@ nemedia.com.au

Charles Street from the friends of Mount Stirling said the decision to end logging will reduce the strain on the ecosystem in the area.

“Mount Stirling is currently surrounded by VicForests designated logging coupes,” he said.

“As the coupes and the wider Mount Stirling region are all ecologically interconnected, logging damage to any part compromises the whole.

“The Friends of Mount Stirling warmly welcome the cessation of native forest logging, and we thank the government for stopping this practice for all future generations.”

The Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) also welcomed the announcement, with executive director Matt Ruchel saying, “We’re keen to see the detail and better understand how these forests will be managed and protected into the future, and welcome the commitment for a full assessment of forest suitable for new national parks.”

Save Our Strathbogie Forest president Bertram Lobert explained this was a big win for the group, who have been trying to protect native species including the Greater Glider.

“Forests have been slapped around and abused for decades and they’re on

their last legs,” he said.

“Victorian forests, particularly the central highland forests and the wetter forests here in the Strathbogie Ranges, are the most carbon-dense in the world.

“We’ll be keeping a close eye on what happens in the next six months because there are lots of loose ends to tie up.”

President of Forestry Australia, Dr Michelle Freeman, said this is a big step backwards for sustainability.

“We know that well managed native forests can actually provide superior biodiversity, fire and climate outcomes,” she said.

“Simply excluding harvesting from native forests does not guarantee biological diversity, particularly from the broader threats of

wildfires, invasive species, and climate change.

“Closing the native forest timber industry in Victoria will constrain the silvicultural and management options for state forests.”

Victorian deputy leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Emma Kealy said, “Without the timber industry’s man power and heavy machinery, our capacity to fight bushfires will be significantly reduced, putting our forests and regional communities in harm’s way.”

The Australian Forest Products Association warned this decision could create more negative outcomes for the environment, calling on National Cabinet to form a country-wide strat-

egy to improve standards.

CEO Joel Fitzgibbon said the lack of native logging in Victoria will increase imports from other states and countries, many of which do not have the same ecological standards.

“Sustainable forestry management practices play no role in deforestation in Australia and decision makers need to understand the ramifications of their decisions,” he said.

“It’s time to elevate our growing import dependence and shrinking sovereign capability to the National Cabinet.”

Dr Freeman echoed this statement, saying, “There are very few production systems on the globe that offer stronger sustainability credentials than well managed native forests.”

Dr Carr-Gregg talks youth resilience

By BRODIE EVERIST

HIGH-profile psychologist

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg visited Myrtleford as the guest speaker at the North East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY) community seminar earlier this month, speaking on how parents can support the mental health of their adolescent children.

Organised by NESAY, the event at Education Myrtleford Performing Arts Centre (EMPAC) coincided with Myrtleford’s

Mental Wellbeing week, a series of events to promote good mental health practice.

Dr Carr-Gregg said the talk was primarily about five key elements to building resilience in adolescents - developing social skills and emotional intelligence, having access to caring and responsible adults, having a hobby that gives their life purpose, and developing a sense of belonging.

“If you want resilient kids, you’ve got to make sure they have access to what I call char-

ismatic adults - people in the community who have credibility and care about them,” he said.

“Make sure they have really good emotional intelligence so they can pick up on their own self talk; recognise when they’re thinking in ways that aren’t helpful.”

Dr Carr-Gregg said organisations like NESAY help facilitate young people learning these types of skills.

“It’s not actually taught very much in schools,” he said.

“And nothing in my mind is

more important, which is why I’m prepared to drive the three hours from Melbourne to give this talk.”

Speaking before the seminar, NESAY family connection practitioner Kate Gilson said it would complement the work she does in counselling families.

“It gives the parents tools and knowledge they can take back to how they both parent, but also how they relate and understand the dynamics they’re working with,” she said.

The State Government has announced a $200 million transition package designed to help workers and their families find work outside of the industry, including retraining courses vis TAFE.

This will bring the total support for native logging by the state government to $875 million which includes existing programs and funding to transition to plantation timber.

Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney said, “We absolutely do not take this lightly, but the uncertainty cannot continue.

“We will back local communities with the financial support, secure jobs and training, and one-on-one case management they need.”

MP McLeish said the offer of retraining courses through TAFE adds insult to injury.

“These are hardworking, capable men and women, experts in their field with years of experience who are losing their livelihoods,” she said.

“A retraining course simply does not cut the mustard.”

Shadow Minister Kealy said the government’s decision is based on politics, not science or fact.

“So many communities rely on the timber industry for their survival and will be shattered by this decision,” she said.

“This decision will kill our timber industry and cause untold damage to our regional communities.”

LOG GONE: Environmental groups have praised the State Government’s decision but are waiting for more details on what will happen to native logging coupes after the industry is shut down in January 2024.

HELPING OUR KIDS: Dr Michael CarrGregg with NESAY staff Dianna Piazza and Georgie Gray. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Luxurious and exclusive home

LOCATED in the exclusive Waldara Golf Course Estate boasting an uncompromised level of finish, this impeccable four-bedroom plus study custom home combines outstanding quality and functionality with amazing location and views.

This sizeable home offers a seamless open plan kitchen, living and dining with high ceilings, wide hallway and second living space.

The first-class kitchen is custom designed to showcase a custom concrete island bench with premium Smeg appliances.

It is appointed to a high standard with

twin ovens, dishwasher, silent rangehood, recessed lighting and an abundance of soft close storage along with a large butler’s pantry.

The home is designed to maximise natural light with a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.

This is truly a home for all seasons, where glass stacking doors can be opened to bring the outside in cleverly adjoining the expansive outdoor area directly overlooking the golf course.

This magnificent home provides two bedrooms with their very own ensuites and walk-in robes, while two further guestrooms both contain built-in robes.

The main bathroom is spacious and beautiful with freestanding bath, 900 tiles, recessed lighting, and frameless glass shower.

Comfort is ensured with ducted refrigerated cooling and heating along with zoning capacity to individual areas of the home, while double-glazed windows throughout the home provide efficiency, comfort and quiet enjoyment.

Additional features include spacious study with custom cabinetry, floating wood burning fireplace, fully secure rear yard, oversized double garage, laundry with additional walk-in storage, and fully shelved mud room.

Waldara lifestyle living

THIS beautiful Waldara lifestyle property is perfectly set on 1.6 acres. This charming weatherboard home is perfect for those families seeking space in every sense with four bedrooms plus study and two large bathrooms. Generously proportioned kitchen, living and dining areas with a large second living space. Upon entering the home, you are greeted with an abundance of natural light, polished floorboards, high ceilings and the home is surrounded by the wraparound veranda.

The primary bedroom is both sunlit and spacious, providing a full ensuite and

walk-in robe. Three further bedrooms of which two contain built-in robes.

Ensuring the climate remains comfortable all year round, the home is serviced by ducted heating and cooling, reverse cycle split systems, ceiling fans and a wood burning heater. An 18-panel solar unit adds to the home’s efficiency.

Beautifully set within the established leafy garden surrounds, The gardens provide both privacy and beauty and can be admired from many areas of the home.

Ideally set on over 1.6 acres backing on to the reserve with no rear neighbours. Further enhancing the property,

shedding can accommodate two vehicles with additional workshop and storage (12m x 7.5m) with concrete floor and power connected. (Carport 7.5m X 6m)

This quality Waldara lifestyle property presents a fantastic opportunity for those seeking a desirable 6705 m2 allotment and a large home in a quiet location. Within 10 minutes’ drive to the CBD, walking distance to both primary and secondary schools and less than 1km from the Wangaratta Golf Club.

Please contact Danial Siperki at Harcourts Real Estate to arrange a private inspection on 0400 027 473.

‘Kimberley Fields’ Greta

“KIMBERLEY FIELDS” is under 30mins from Wangaratta and just 15mins to Moyhu township. Located in the heart of Greta valley and comprised of 816 acres plus leases, this property boasts a real opportunity for large scale cattle operation.

Sealed and dirt road access with multiple entries to paddocks, yards and shedding. A perfect block for fattening and breeding cattle, silage/hay production and many other rural pursuits. Main homestead features a four bedroom home plus study, with one bathroom. Main kitchen living is open plan with separate lounge. Heating and cooling are well catered for with two combustion heaters and split system.

Large decked outdoor area is the perfect location to entertain and admire the views of beautiful well-established trees and garden. Second dwelling of the property is a 1970s built brick veneer home, consisting of three bedrooms, one bathroom with kitchen dining and separate lounge. Multiple sheds on the property

Business Guide

with machinery shed, unused dairy, open bay hay shed along with further hay shedding located in front paddock. Cattle yards fitted with loading race, crush, all under cover with extensive steel holding yards all connected to laneway system. Water reliability is a huge feature of “Kimberley Fields” with 800-850mm per annum rainfall along with a fully licenced/registered dam on farm with 140ML of storage. Dam is fitted with 15inch gate valve and water can be released to house dam with pumping point. Previously used for dairy farming, since 2014 the owners have turned their attention to breeding beef cattle. With great fertiliser history, reliable water source and large-scale acreage this property is a rarity in today’s market. First time offered to the public market in over 50 Years clearly demonstrating the rarest of opportunities, For more information about 114 Thomas Lane, Greta South or to book a inspection please call Nutrien-Harcourts Wangaratta..

sales@nemedia.com.au

11 Fairway Drive, Waldara.

For sale: $1.1m to $1.2m.

Less than 12 months old. Golf course views.

Space, comfort and in pristine condition. Move in ready. A stunning home.

Lot 46 Waldara Golf Estate..

For sale: $879,000

Under construction and ready soon!

North-facing golf course views.

Low maintenance living on 527 square metres (approx.)

Quality upgrades. Check it out before you commit to building.

13 Maori Way, Wangaratta.

For sale: $819,000

Fine family living. Ex-display home

Fully established with lots of extras. Space for all the family inside and out. Located edge of town on service road.

36 Cusack Street, Wangaratta.

For sale: $589,000

Central, renovated and great value! Renovated from top to toe. Invest or a home to love.

Large block close to Wangaratta hospital.

1/13 Williams Road, Wangaratta .

For sale: $489,000

Comprehsively renovated on 435 square metres (approx.) Stunning new kitchen, ensuite and bathroom. cooling units. 107 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta.

For sale: $414,000

Concrete stumps. Updated kitchen. Re-wired. 3 large bedrooms with robes. Gas heating, split system.

Corner block of 597 square metres (approx.).

-

25 Bottlebrush Avenue, Wangaratta.

For sale: $680,000

Brand “spanking” new.

Modern, open plan layout with all the modern luxuries. Fenced and ready for new owners. Quick settlement an option.

BIG ‘CRUISER UTE IS BUILT FOR PURPOSE

■ FULL FORCE: The unbreakable Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series keeps on keeping on.

By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, Marque Motoring

IF you want a definition of the term `workhorse’ look no further than Toyota’s 70-Series LandCruiser.

Whether it’s carrying miners or carting hay bales in every dairy farm in Australia, the 70-Series is a hard-working 4x4 that earns its keep day-in day-out, year-in, yearout.

All variants are powered, and we mean powered, by a 4.5-litre V8 turbo diesel engine.

The latest, LC79, version of the 70-Series comes with four body styles: wagon, troop carrier, plus two- and five-seat cab-chassis.

Each comes in WorkMate or GXL grade with the Single Cab also offering a lowerspec GX.

Our test vehicle was the GXL Single Cab cab chassis priced at $76,650 plus onroad costs and with a genuine Toyota galvanised steel tray.

STYLING

The lads from Monty Python might have had the LandCruiser 70 Series in mind when they said “and now for something completely different”.

Not in terms of what came before the current LC79, because there is very little different here, but in comparison with everything else out there.

The closest anything comes to it is the Land Rover Defender prior to it being gentrified.

The squared-off truck-like styling of the 70-Series is in-

stantly recognisable, having changed little over the years.

There’s a large bonnet scoop, plenty of chrome in the grille and protruding bumper bar, plus halogen lights and 16-inch wheels.

INTERIOR

The cabin of the LC79 is as basic as you can get.

Lots of plastic all around with very few storage spaces, which means with two occupants the passenger will need to nurse any bags, etc.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

All LC79 variants are powered by a 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel that produces 151kW of power at 3400 rpm and 430Nm of torque from 1200 to 3200 rpm.

The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, with taller second and fifth gears, the latter allowing it to cruise more easily on motorways.

Drive is to the rear wheels through a dual-range transfer case with high and low range gearing, auto-locking front hubs plus front and rear diff locks.

The 2022 upgrade increased the LC79’s gross vehicle mass to 3510kg, not only increasing the payload but also taking the range from the light to medium goods category.

Braked trailer towing capacity remains at 3500kg.

SAFETY

The latest upgrade, in late2022, added autonomous emergency braking and a Pre-Collision Safety system including pedestrian and

daytime cyclist detection, enabling it to meet the latest ANCAP safety criteria and get the maximum five stars.

Other standard features include four airbags, ABS brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, stability and traction control and Hill-Start Assist.

However, more recent safety features are missing, including things like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning or correction, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors and a rear-view camera - most of which are available on vehicles that are more than half the price.

DRIVING

It’s a bit of a climb to get into the LC79, helped by grab handles on either side, but once there the cloth seats are firm but comfortable.

There’s no push button start, the key needs to be inserted in the ignition slotdon’t mind that, at least you always know where it is.

The wing mirrors are large but not powered and need a bit of pushing and prodding to set them properly, a real nuisance if you don’t have a passenger to help.

Once set, they contribute to excellent visibility all round with a large, almost vertical, windscreen, large side windows and no rear seat headrests to block the view behind.

The first thing to do if you pick up a Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series in the city - as we did - is to get out ASAP.

It’s certainly not designed for urban conditions.

It’s large, heavy and cum-

MODEL RANGE

LAND CRUISER 79-SERIES 4.5-LITRE DIESEL WORKMATE

bersome with a large turning circle.

Steering is heavy, the brakes are spongy and there’s a fair bit of body roll.

With its 14.4 metre turning circle even moderate manoeuvres are likely to necessitate a three-point turn.

Fortunately, Sydney’s ring of motorways let us escape and we were able to settle into an uninterrupted trip to the Central Coast.

While it was still not in its natural habitat and it could hardly be called a cruiser, we got a much better feel for the LC79.

There was a significant amount of engine and road noise and it really needed a sixth gear.

On the positive side, the amount of torque, accessible across the rev range, meant the big Cruiser moved effortlessly regardless of terrain.

The gear shift has a long throw action which makes it possible to miss third if you rush it.

On moving off It can take three gear changes just to get across an intersection, unless you start off in second, which is the preferred method.

Off road, with 230mm of ground clearance, 700mm wading ability, a snorkel for breathing, low range crawler gearing, plus front and rear diff locks, the 70 Series takes some stopping.

SUMMING UP

Whenever you travel around the great Aussie bush every second vehicle seems to be a 70-Series LandCruisers.

Some in much loved con-

SINGLE CAB CHASSIS: $72,550

LAND CRUISER 79-SERIES 4.5-LITRE DIESEL GX SINGLE

CAB CHASSIS: $74,550

LAND CRUISER 79-SERIES 4.5-LITRE DIESEL GXL SINGLE

CAB CHASSIS: $76,650

LAND CRUISER 79-SERIES 4.5-LITRE DIESEL WORKMATE

DUAL CAB CHASSIS: $75,100

LAND CRUISER 79-SERIES 4.5-LITRE DIESEL GXL SINGLE

CAB CHASSIS: $79,200

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for driveaway prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Toyota Land Cruiser LC79 Single Cab

GXL 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel cab chassis.

RATINGS:

Looks: 7/10; Performance: 8/10; Safety: 6/10; Thirst: 7/10;

Practicality: 5/10; Comfort: 6/10; Tech: 6/10; Value: 6/10;

Overall: 6.4

dition, others that have led a rough life - but all are still going strong and hard, even with too little maintenance.

One reason for its popularity is that it has been developed specifically for the Australian environment, with a tough ladder-frame chassis, live-axles, impressive ground clearance, part-time 4x4, powerful yet efficient engine, excellent load-carrying capacity and long touring range.

The LandCruiser 70 series gets a five-year, unlimited distance warranty that can be extended to seven years on the powertrain when the vehicle is serviced at a Toyota dealership.

Servicing intervals are six months or 10,000km.

Now for the bad news. About a year ago Toyota Australia instructed its dealers to stop taking orders, and that is still the case.

Even those who had ordered their LC79 prior to that

date are facing long delays.

PERFORMANCE:

Capacity: 4.461 litres

Configuration: V8

Maximum Power: 151 kW @ 3400 rpm

Maximum Torque: 430 Nm from 1200-3200 rpm

Fuel Type: Diesel Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): : 10.7 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 281 g/km

DRIVELINE:

Five-speed manual

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 5230 mm

Wheelbase: 3180 mm

Width: 1870 mm

Height: 1955 mm

Turning Circle: 14.4 metres

Kerb Mass: 2195 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 130 litres

STANDARD WARRANTY:

Five years, Unlimited kilometres

Beechworth Winterwords Festival fast approaching

By CORAL COOKSLEY

THIS year’s Winterwords Festival boasts an exciting action-packed line up of events to celebrate words in every form, and is set to kick off in four weeks’ time.

Winterwords Collective director Janet Tweedie said an official opening will take place at the Beechworth Memorial Hall on June 21, where special guest Declan Furber Gillick will perform.

“As a young Indigenous writer, performer and multidisciplinary artist, Declan combines spoken word, poetry and rap music together,” she said.

Declan hails from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with Aboriginal and Irish-Anglo ancestry.

He is currently working on a new play for the Melbourne Theatre Company, where he is a resident writer in their Next Stage program.

In its third year, Janet said Winterwords offered additional events with some very different ones with intriguing topics.

Among them is an open group-directed discussion on what it means to die well while another is a kitchen table conversation about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander ‘Voice to Parliament’.

Janet said Yackandandah primary school teacher and award-winning playwright Brendan Hogan will be facilitating a drama workshop for 10 to 14 year-olds.

She said wildlife researcher, zoologist and former senior curator for more than two decades at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo, Erna Walraven, will travel from the New South Wales coast to chat about wild leadership.

“It’s really interesting research about animal behaviour and comparisons with human behaviour which is going to be a fascinating session,” Janet said.

“Another is a talk by Beechworth’s Dr Trudy Ryan based on how messages are framed to changes hearts, minds and action.

“Trudy will also be facilitating a workshop on an introduction to eco linguistics for environmental stewards and advocates around effec-

1915 BSA motorbike sparks some interesting conversations

By CORAL COOKSLEY

tive ways to communicate with people.”

Local author Margaret Hickey will introduce her new novel being released next month in the crime words session while fellow writer Gabrielle Berg Moser will talk about her new book too.

“They will be talking about crime writing in general and different types of crime writing,” Janet said.

“Beechworth’s Frank Prem will be talking about one of his latest poetry works ‘Ida Pender: The Jazz Baby’ while historian and author Richard Patterson will return to Beechworth to talk about writing local history in a really fun way.

“There’s so much happening including Beechworth Books’ open night where people can chat to authors and grab a soup or mulled wine with profits from wine and food sales donated to Kangaloola Wildlife Rescue.”

Winterwords Festival with its 26 scheduled sessions around town and Stanley runs from Wednesday, June 21 to Sunday, June 25.

Many sessions are free or by gold coin donation. Visit www.winterwords. com.au for more information, program sessions and registrations where needed.

A 1915 BSA (Birmingham Small Arms Co) motorbike sparked interest from visitors to Beechworth’s ‘Drive Back in Time’ event ‘Show and Shine’ earlier this month, when Stanley’s Michael McCormick displayed the machine with its incredible history.

Owned for two years, Michael said the bike had belonged to a farming family’s son who went off to World War I but sadly didn’t return.

“Kept in the family for 75 years, a next-door neighbour heard the family were removing the motor to run a pump on their farm, and as a friend he was given the bike,” Michael said.

“The neighbour kept the bike for 25 years until it was

given to another friend who wasn’t a motorbike rider and I managed to stumble across it.

“We purchased the bike with the original 1915 registration plate and a Certificate of Registration dated May 5, 1915.

“It’s probably clocked up around 500 kilometres since 1915.

“I have its history and it’s an amazing story.”

Michael said the bike will remain in his family.

“It’s something I’ll keep forever.”

The vintage motor bike enthusiast said he had a couple of books on the bike too.

BSA in the UK was founded in 1861 for firearm production, with its motorcycle division set up in 1903 and its first motorcycle rolled out in 1910.

PRIDE AND JOY: Stanley’s Michael McCormick shows off his prized possession at this year’s ‘Drive Back in Time’ held in Beechworth earlier this month.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

ON THE WILD SIDE: Wildlife researcher, zoologist and former senior curator at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo Erna Walraven will chat about animal behaviour and leadership at this year’s Winterwords Festival.

Public

Have Your Say

What do you like about the Rural City of Wangaratta’s parks, playgrounds, ovals and open spaces?

What would you change?

How can we make them more accessible and inviting?

Take this survey and you could win 1 of 3 $100 vouchers

Survey Closes 9 June 2023

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group

We’ve had an incredible response to seeking applications for this working group – thank you! However, we still need to reach members of our community from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds so will be extending applications for another two weeks.

Did you know that 119 people in our municipality speak Filipino? Or that 75 members of our community speak Punjabi at home? These numbers doubled in our last census!

If you would like to help us reach out to these communities please do – share our news with your friends and family and let them know that we’d like their input in our municipality!

The Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group is currently being built to help work through new projects that matter to you.

The anticipated time commitment will be:

June 2023 - Review of draft policy prior to the brainstorming session.

July 2023 – Attendance at one of 2 hour inperson brain-storming session.

August 2023 - Review of the revised policy before being presented to Council meetings every two months.

If this interests you please visit our website for further details https://www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Your-Council/Committees/InclusiveWangaratta or email council@wangaratta.vic. gov.au.

Join Greta Valley Landcare Group and Rural City of Wangaratta for a workshop with local experts to learn how to create a garden that both you and our local wildlife will love. With a full day program available from 9:30am-3:30pm on Sunday 4 June 2023 participants can choose to come along for the morning or afternoon session or the whole day with lunch and refreshments supplied.

Morning session includes:

wildlife with Sue Brunskill

and keep your cat safe and healthy with Dee Nuttall

our area with Jim Blackney, including how to use nest boxes to provide wildlife habitat. Afternoon session includes:

how to attract pollinating insects to your garden

from the Regent Honeyeater Project. Places are limited so bookings are essential. Tickets are $5 for each session. Book online here, https://events.humanitix.com/ gardening-for-wildlife-gvlg or via 5722 0888 or environment@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

This project is supported by the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority though funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

Tenders

C40193 Wangaratta Creative Precinct Detailed Design Tender closes at 2pm Wednesday 7 June 2023.

C40163 Baker Street Renewal Tender closes at 2pm Wednesday 7 June 2023.

C40487 Fosangs Lane Bridge Reconstruction

Tender closes at 2pm Wednesday 28 June 2023.

Further details may be obtained by visiting Council’s website at, https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/ Working-with-Council. To discuss upcoming projects in your community please contact Council on 03 5722 0888

Positions vacant

Officer

Youth Resilience Peer Worker

Finance Business Partner

Building Inspector/Surveyor

Gallery Technician

General Stream Mechanic

Domestic Care Worker

Community Care Worker

Lifeguard

Aquatic Education Instructor Gym Instructor

Group Fitness Instructor

Customer Experience Officer

For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/ Careers

INPERSONBYPHONESELLING

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677 5723 0101 classifieds@ nemedia.com.au

WHENTO BOOK BYEMAIL

ACAR BUY ONLINE

2

WITH PICTURE from only

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Employment: northeastjobs.com.au Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE

PUBLIC NOTICES

in The Chronicle, Ask us about 5723 0101 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta or email

TO BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED WE ACCEPT *Conditions apply

FIRST floor office space in Reid Street, carpet, split system heating and cooling, $95 p/w, includes power. Phone 0431 190 630.

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.

ENVIRO LIQUID WASTE. Your locally owned and operated septic cleaning business. Servicing septics, grease traps, triple interceptors and winery waste. Phone Peter 0419 163 420.

GARDENING, MOWING for all gardening needs in Wangaratta district from Violet Town to Cheshunt, Springhurst, Bundalong South. Please phone Geoff Moore 0421 639 775.

HEDGE TRIMMING, gutter cleaning, pruning, garden tidy up, rubbish removal, odd jobs. 25 years trade experience. Phone Michael 0412 857 771.

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs. Commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482.

North East Media, publisher of the award winning Wangaratta Chronicle, is currently seeking expressions of interest from motivated candidates to join the team in Wangaratta as a cadet journalist.

The cadetship is ideally suited for a Year 12 graduate.

It is for three years, including course study by correspondence from Deakin University.

The successful candidate will learn how to write clear, concise and interesting news, sport and feature stories for our newspaper and associated digital and social media platforms.

We are searching for a budding writer who has the skills, passion and determination to be a journalist of the future.

Candidates must have excellent verbal and written English, sound computer skills, solid general knowledge, a genuine interest in the local community, and an ability to build rapport and networks quickly. You will need to be well organised, able to work to deadlines, and have strong attention to detail.

Candidates must hold a valid driver’s licence, be available to work flexible hours, and photography and social media skills are desirable.

North East Media is a leading independent family-owned media group with a commitment to community journalism.

Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be emailed to Group Editor Jeff Zeuschner at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

2 X FULL TIME ROLES

QUALIFIED A GRADE ELECTRICIAN 1ST YEAR APPRENTICE

REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

WE ARE SEEKING AN ENTHUSIASTIC LICENSED ELECTRICIAN AND 1ST YEAR APPRENTICE REFRIGERATION MECHANIC WHO IS SELF MOTIVATED AND CAN WORK WELL IN A TEAM ENVIRONMENT.

THIS ROLE WILL REQUIRE:

- MANUAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

- WHITE CARD (OH&S BASIC TRAINING)

- EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS

- BE MOTIVATED AND TAKE PRIDE IN THEIR WORK

- BE MATURE, HONEST, PUNCTUAL AND RELIABLE - PHYSICALLY FIT IMMEDIATE START FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE EMAIL OR SEND YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO ADMIN@JCSINDUSTRIES.COM.AU

FINANCE OFFICER

Do you like numbers?

Is attention to detail a trait often attributed to you?

Do you have accounting software experience?

Does part time work suit your needs (12 hrs per week with the possibility of increasing)?

Do you have an enthusiasm to learn?

We are a growing organisation which manages Early Childhood services and looking for a suitable person to manage processes including payroll, payments,

Come and join our small but dynamic team

For further information and a position description contact 0409 025 724 or manager@nerpsa.com.au

Applications close Friday, June 9.

SECURITY TECHNICIAN TRAINEE

Payroll and Accounts Officer

We are seeking a passionate individual to join our Finance team in Wangaratta as a Payroll and Accounts Officer. Within our Finance department, this role holds significant importance ensuring precise payroll processing and maintaining streamlined accounts management.

Full Time or Part Time applications will be considered, (minimum of 30 hours per week including Mondays due to payroll processing requirements)

Ideally the successful candidate will have:

experience with Payroll Processes (experience with Micropay preferred but not essential) knowledge of or experience with Xero, strong Excel and general PC skills

Accounts Payable and/or Accounts Receivable experience

However this is all preferred - not necessarily essential. Training and support will be supplied as needed to support to the successful candidate.

To be successful the applicant will need to be:

Trustworthy

Reliable, Punctual and have an eye for detail

Be a Team Player with strong communication skills

Be able to show initiative and be adaptive to change

Strong IT/PC Skills

A high attention to detail

Applications Close on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.

For further details please call Zoe Tait- Human Resources and Compliance Manager 0455 659 194.

Please submit your application letters with accompanying resume including stating your preference of Full Time or Part Time to: positions@nufruit.com.au

Aged Care

ENROLLED NURSES –Residential

Permanent Full Time and Part Time Contracts Available

HEALTH & ALLIED ASSISTANT (Planned Activity Group)

Casual Contract

HEALTH CARE WORKERS

Casual Contracts available

For further information please contact Angela Clement, Director Clinical Services(03) 5728 0316

Application instructions can be found on our website.

Closing Date: 16/6/2023

As we are an Aged Care Facility, the COVID 19 vaccinations and booster vaccinationis mandatory for all staff. A copy of your covid19 vaccination status is required upon application.

All staff who work in our residential aged care units also require a current NDIS check

To apply and for full details on the positions, please log on to: www.beechworthhealthservice.com.au

Pinkerton Security is a locally owned security installation company with 40 years experience in the security industry. Our continual growth has created an opportunity to employ a fulltime trainee / apprentice security technician. We are an equal opportunity employer, age is no barrier and we will train the successful applicant in all aspects as a security technician. Trade qualifications desired, but not essential.

REQUIREMENTS:

Must be seeking a permanent position with a view to a career

Must be self-motivated

Able to work in a team environment

A willingness to embrace new technologies, as our industry is continually evolving

Have reasonable computer skills

Good organisational skills

Ability to pass a police check

Must have a car license or intend to obtain

Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the job

Remuneration package

Above award wages, immediate & consistent overtime, 38 hours a week (1 RDO per month), attractive 6 monthly bonus package and Superannuation.

Application close June 23, 2023.

Email resume and covering letter to jobs@psecurity.com.au

VICTORIAN ABORIGINAL CHILD CARE AGENCY

The Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA)

an and advocates for the Aboriginal Community. VACCA

EMPLOYMENT

Ambulance Victoria is looking for members to join our Community Advisory Committee.

The Committee is made up of members of the community who reflect the voice of patients, carers, families, and the diversity of the Victorian community and ensures that these voices are heard, understood and integrated across AV’s services.

Appointed by the AV Board, members must be entirely independent of AV and must be able to represent and reflect the views of their community. This is a voluntary role however members being paid for meeting attendance and reasonable travel is reimbursed.

Do you have?

Ability to represent and voice the needs of your community members

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work collaboratively with others

Availability to attend 4 meetings a year for the next 2 years

We strongly encourage Expressions of Interest from a diverse range of people. To apply, please submit an Expression of Interest and your resume to joel.marley@ambulance.vic.gov.au by Friday, June 16, 2023. For further information and to download an Expression of Interest form please visit https://www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/community.

EMPLOYMENT

Jobs at Strathbogie Shire Council

Communications & Engagement Adviser - Flood Recovery

Applications close 9am, 5 June 2023

Maternal & Child Health Nurse

VOLKSWAGON Polo

2019, comfortine auto, service history, seven speed, professionally detailed, REG (BCE513), under w arranty, one owner, $22,500, 62,346km. Ph 0458 585 349.

Applications close 9am, 5 June 2023

Customer Service/Records Support

Applications close 9am, 7 June 2023

Payroll and People & Culture

Applications close 9am, 13 June 2023 www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Strathbogie Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer and a Child Safe organisation. We value diversity in our workplace and will

MOTOR VEHICLES

Advertise your car, boat, caravan, bike or trailer across all North East Media newspapersfor Conditions apply.

Phone: 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

GORGEOUS pedigree poodle puppies, apricot (rarest colour), red and brown, excellent temperaments, registered breeder, vet checked, vaccinate d and microchipped, Wangaratta. Source number: RB101993, microchip numbers: 9565015917518, 9565016276640, 9565015887743, 9565015899965, 9565016276259, 9565015888968. Ph 0455 171 780.

BERKSHIRE dispersal young sows, suit breeding or salami. Ph 0411 519 504.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $27 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

BELL, Alan.

Farewell to our card friend.

~ Loved by Nancy M, Nancy S, Jack and Lorna. Goodbye to our “Joker”.

BOWIE, Leonie. My treasured friend, thank you for the wonderful memories. Sleep peacefully. Now with Robert. Love you Leonie. ~ Judi.

BOWIE, Leonie Margaret (Day). Mum,

We will miss the warmth of your gentle hug and love we felt with your arms wrapped around us. We will miss seeing your beautiful smile and the sound of your voice saying our names. We will miss hearing you say, “I love you.” We miss you beyond words and you’ll always hold a special place in our hearts.

Love you to the moon and back x ~ Matthew, Rachel, Dustin and Hadley.

BULLUSS, Lance.

8/1/1934 – 27/5/2023

A limb has fallen from the tree, that says grieve not for me. Remember the BEST TIMES the laughter, the song, The good life, I lived when I was STRONG. Only son of Grenville and Annette Bulluss (both dec).

Brother of Babette (dec) and Glenn. Loved husband of Patti. Father to Mark and Andrea, Janette and Norm, Ian (dec), John and Kate, Michelle and Brent.

BULLUSS, Lance.

Personal Notices

may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Phone: 03 5723 0101

HAMPSHIRE, Allan (Alvin). 3/7/1935 – 29/5/2023

Suddenly passed away in Cairns. Formerly of Wangaratta. Dearly loved husband of Marian and father of Trevor (dec) and Denise. Loved Poppi of Elisha, Simone and Teagan. Grandpa of Rhylee. Going home to Wangaratta. Loved forever.

HAMPSHIRE, Alvin. Loved brother of all the Franklins, Patricia (dec), Graham, Marie, Rodney (dec), Terry, Tony, Kevin, Andrew, Anita and Christine. Another link in the chain is broken.

PATTERSON, Graham Allan (Patto).

Passed away surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Aged 60 years.

INTER CD 1840 single axel articulated tipper grain truck in working order, 6-1970 UD4 engine, 15spd g-box, as normal tipper, suit on farm work or restore, no reg or RWC, chassy number: CD247398, $8900. Ph 0417 377 391.

Poppi Lance to Tamara, Travis, Brianna, Stacey, Kirsty, Ryan, Tayla, Jesse and Cody. Great Poppi Lance to Jensen, Austin, Charli, Evie, Mitchell, Arlo, Mila, Ever, Tate, Ollie, Forever in our hearts.

BULLUSS, Lance.

Loving husband of Debbie. Father of Casie and Tegan and their partners Shane and Marcus. Pop to Lilly, Hunter, Remi, Blake and Jacob.

In our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day.

RALPH (nee Cooper), Joyce Lillian. Aged 96 years.

ONE owner, 2012 Toyota Camry Altise sedan,(YXX911), travelled 91,749km, part of a deceased estate, in very good condition, one or two mino r scratches. All books and records, will supply reliable second family car, inspection will not disappoint, $15,500. Contact Stretch 0488 444 650.

1 ELECTRIC TOASTER OVEN $28,

1 BENTLEY PIANO AND STOOL, 133cm wide $1200. Ph 0400 615 998.

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wreckiing. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221. Adzam Tyres.

To Lance my sunshine, the moment your heart stopped, mine changed forever. Thanks, my love for a lifetime of joyous memories.

~ Your loving wife Patti.

BULLUSS, Lance. A good friend for many years, will be missed.

Deepest sympathies to Patti.

~ From Mas, Bas, Prue and Tony.

Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Northeast Health Wangaratta.

Beloved wife of Lance (dec) for 70 years. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Glenys and Graeme, Ross and Alana, Dianne and Colin.

Cherished Gam to 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Forever in our hearts and memories.

BULLUSS, Lance.

Members of the Rotary Club of Milawa Oxley mourn the loss of our much-loved founding and Charter Member, Lance Bulluss. With deepest sympathy to his wife and Sunshine, Patti, and his family. He remained a proud Rotarian to the end.

ROLANDS (nee Chalmers), Joan Lucy. Passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s Aged Care Hostel, Wangaratta on May 29, 2023. Aged 98 years.

Loved and loving wife of Geoffrey - married 68 years. Loved and adored mother and mother-in-law of Lucille and Doug, Donald and Marice.

Treasured Nanna Joan of Kylie and Ben, Shaun and Larna, Brett and Laura, Leah and Jacob, Kyle and Katie, Lauren, Kerryn and Alicia. Cherished Great Nanna Joan of Mia, Isla, Jarrah, Patrick, Quinn, Ella, Deacon and Peyton.

‘Forever in our hearts and memories’

SHEARER, Jennifer.

22/1/1948 – 30/5/2023

The family of Jennifer Lesley Shearer is saddened to announce her passing peacefully away on May 30, 2023. Aged 75 years.

Jenny will be sadly missed by her family and the many Wangaratta community organisations that she was involved in.

Much loved wife of Stephen. Devoted Mother of Andrew and Rosalie. Beloved Grandmother of Jazmine and Moss. Rest in God’s Loving Care.

SHEARER, Jenny.

U3A Wangaratta are saddened by the death of our long-term member.

We will miss her enthusiasm, enjoyment and contributes to lifelong learning.

WYNNE, Kenneth Gordon (Ken). 26/6/1936 – 25/5/2023

To my beloved Ken, Thank you for being my family, when mine is so far away. The park is no longer home without you here. ~ Love Karen and Neville.

WYNNE, Kenneth Gordon. 26/6/1936 – 25/5/2023

Late of North Cedars Caravan Park Wangaratta. Passed away peacefully at Rangeview Nursing home Wangaratta.

Dearly loved partner of Grace (dec) and family.

Loved son of David and Maggie Wynne (both dec).

Brother and brother-in-law of Margaret (dec) and Ray, Karen (dec) and Ray, Jim (dec) and Joan, Lyn and Wally (dec), Neville and Maureen (dec).

Uncle and Great Uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

Forever in our hearts, we will miss your wonderful laugh. BULLUSS

The funeral service to honour the life of Lance Bulluss will be held at Holy Trinity Cathedral, cnr of Ovens and Docker Streets, Wangaratta. at 11am on Thursday, June 8, 2023 followed by private burial.

The live stream may be viewed at www.northeastfunerals.com.au/live-stream

In lieu of flowers a donation to Rotary Foundation would be appreciated. rotary.org/en/donate PATTERSON

RALPH

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the service in celebration of Joyce’s life, to be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 2pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Flowers welcome.

“Reunited with Dad”

ROLANDS

Funeral prayers for Mrs Joan Lucy Rolands will be offered at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 39 Church Street, Glenrowan On Wednesday, June 7, 2023 commencing at 1pm.

Private Cremation

Please wear a splash of red (her favourite colour) in memory of Joan.

A video recording of the service will be available at 4pm, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link

N.J. TODD

Funeral Directors

Benalla 03 5762 2461

Euroa 1800 352 425

Member AFDA

SHEARER

Friends, relatives and those whose hearts have been touched by Jenny, are invited to celebrate her life with her family.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Jennifer Lesley Shearer will be held in the Uniting Church, 10 Rowan Street, Wangaratta on Friday, June 9, 2023 at 10am. Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Jenny’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming

WYNNE

The burial service of Mr Ken Wynne will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery on Monday, June 5, 2023 at 11am, followed by a memorial service at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta commencing at 11.30am.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

A

The only family owned funeral home

in Wangaratta

John & Christine Haddrick

All Hours 5722 2525 northeastfunerals.com.au

Des and family would like to thank everyone for their support, sympathy and caring

St Catherines. Your care and love for Wilma was wonderful.

~ Des, Dianne and Robert, Trevor and Leanne, Christine and Stephen, Pauline, Colleen and Craig, Kathleen and Andrew, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Resting peacefully.

STONE, Maurice. 7/3/1931-2/6/2010

Time passes but memories remain.

~Loving wife Phyllis.

Remember your loved one in a lasting way

The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

business day prior to publication

classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101

The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.

To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact -

Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow. Local News. Claim
your INSTANT
ASSET WRITE-OFF before June
30 Servicing Wangaratta & North East Victoria Call Paul today 0438 033 329 pault@vefinance.com.au Vehicle Equipment Finance Paul Trinick 13 13 13 14 17 Weekend Edition $1.80 (03) 5723 0100 FRIDAY, May 26, 2023 Like other agencies experiencing an increasing The charity’s long-awaited with Catholic Bishop of on hand to bless the building. bishment, Lady’s conferences to assist which includes reception consulting rooms and and storage for items such toiletries, scarves and in the form of food cards. consulting rooms erence, not only offering work from, but allowing in-person conversations working out temporary Street site, where they could happens when you sit and and the background of why president Loris Fletcher said. New Wangaratta St Vincent de Paul assistance centre to bring welcome relief Meeting a need Sport Page 10 Rep netball ready to fire Consider reaches new heights (Galen College) will travel to Story page 14 BEST FOOT FORWARD For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au New South will be able to travel into Victoria their driver’s licence formal access the services delays are expected, ahead. NOW IN PLACE A BORDER BUBBLE IS SOCIAL Charge up your engines - 5 Latrobe Live at home for longer Home Care Packages for Wangaratta CALLNOW Café invited orchestra meeting Teens look to the future with uni offers Wangaratta students compare admirably after year like no other Country stacks up in VCESubscribe now at wangarattachronicle.com.au

CHICK, Wilma Evalyn. 14/9/1929 – 16/5/2023

Excitement grows at Oxley table tennis

THE words of the old song “oh what a night” certainly rang true when 25 players arrived as one at the Oxley Hall for last Monday night’s social table tennis competition.

Kate Cole had her skates on when she and big hitter, Clive Brooker, took on straight and sharp shooter, Archie Crispin and the ‘bat whisperer’ Graham Stephens in a set where laughter was best medicine for those feeling the pressure.

It was a tough and tenacious battle from go to whoa, with a tie breaker victory being a fitting result.

Two powerful b-doubles were fully loaded and ready for the long haul, when Simon Brown and Brian Bourke hit the tables, taking on Adam Bosley and William Bonwick, whose engines were revving from the first point.

With each pair determined to deliver the goods, they faced the ups and downs of a great performance on their road to glory.

Final scores not mentioned, but too close for comfort.

In a neck and neck contest new girl to hit the red carpet, Janice Turriff, and veteran Janet Heath womanned up to take on Allister Olsson and Gary Coad in a battle of brawn and brains.

From the outset, Turriff

SCOREBOARD

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

Saturday, May 27

and Heath knew they had the job in front of them, with Coad taking the high road and Olsson taking the low road.

Long, low, fast serves from Olsson, plus the speed by Coad made it difficult for the girls to adjust to, but they also had their own weapons to put the fellas under pressure.

Olsson and Coad won with score reading 21-15.

Keen to see for herself what her kids get up to each week, Lauren Olsson showed she has what it takes when she and ‘slow to shower’ June Uebergang accepted

the challenge from the fit as a fiddle, Debbie Brunken and shoulder to the wheel John Fisher.

A very enjoyable game that saw high, low and surprising performances culminate into a long battle which finally ended with Brunken and Fisher winning by a large margin.

When the two Neils, speedie Brock and the man with a plan Spurgeo joined forces to play the two young and lively Zac Mullins and Dale Stebbins, it was a toeto-toe contest from beginning to end.

Well positioned, heavy

Eagle on 3rd Hole to Peter Glidden.

hitting and crafty precision was highlighted as each player demonstrated his strengths in spades.

Although Brock and Spurgeon gave the young blokes a real run for their money, it was Mullins and Stebbins who finished on top.

As always, a sleeveless Richard Morgan was on fire from his first game of the night until his set with Kate Cole, many sets later.

Facing the relentless power and precision that Joyce Fisher delivers and the equally strong backing of Gary Coad, those on the sidelines received mouth-

Mens Competition: May 24

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Geoff Webster 42 Points.

watering entertainment.

Nothing was left on or under the table as they toughed it out for eternity.

Final scores not delivered, but it was a beauty.

After having played many sets for the night, the quiet but lively young girl Phoebe Bosley, and ‘always on the go’ Don Heath, still had the wind in their sails when they took on near neighbours Cheryl Coad and Brian Bourke.

Showing no signs of fatigue the young Bosley, with Heath by her side, put Coad and Bourke under relentless pressure in both delivery

and defence in a battle of the boards.

Firm handshakes and big smiles indicated the result was close but a bigger smile from Bosley and Heath said it all.

Another very sociable and physical evening concluded when everyone gathered around the supper table to refresh, review and retire.

Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the weekly social competition on Monday night, beginning at 7pm. Bring your own bat, $2 entry and a plate to share.

Stroke final round club championships

A Grade Winner: Leeanne Carmody 70. B Grade Winner: Joy Hester

75. Ball winners: Jackie O’Brien (2)

75, Val Ellis 76, Kellie Roberts 76.

NTP: 4th Melody Adams, 8th Alli Comensoli, 13th Leeanne Carmody

****HOLE IN ONE****, 17th Leeanne Carmody.

Saturday, May 27

2023 Club Championships

Ladies

A Grade Winner: Leeanne Carmo-

dy. B Grade Winner: Kellie Roberts. C

Grade Winner: Judy Fogarty.

Men

A Grade Winner: Shane Andrewartha. B Grade Winner: Rodney Sebire. C Grade Winner: Fraser Jeffrey.

D Grade Winner: Terry Docherty.

Saturday, May 27

Stroke Medal and Final Round Club Championships

A Grade Winner: Tristan Heath

****MEDAL WINNER**** 70. Runner

Up: Daniel McPhee 71.

B Grade Winner: Jaxon Osmotherly 72. Runner Up: Leslie Naidoo 72.

C Grade Winner: Zac Guilfoyle 71.

Runner Up: Martin Hill 73.

D Grade Winner: Matt Sanders 72.

Runner Up: Kevan O’Shea 74.

Best Scratch: Tristan Heath 71.

Ball Winners: Robert Voss 71, Eon Scott 73, Neville Hogan 74, Rhys

Rigoni 74, Ritchie Arnold 74, Aaron Kungl 74, Steve Rigoni 74, Tashi

Namgyal Tenzing 74, Darren Jones

75, Glenn O’Connell 76, Hayden Rogers 76, Michael Baillie 76, Greg Hogan

76, Gary Walder 76, Gordon Paterson

76, Adam Anderson, Wayne Hibberson, Rodney Sebire, Julian Bau 77.

Super Nine Club Shirt: Ian Harbourd 22

Aroma Deli: Leslie Naidoo 22

2 Balls: Gary Butler 21

NTP: 4th Charl DeMink (Pinsent Hotel), 8th Peter Glidden (Lotto), 13th Glenn O’Connell (Town and Country Tavern), 17th Eon Scott (Greta Road BP).

Monday, May 29 - Stableford Vets

A Grade: Martin Hill 37. B Grade: John McKenzie 33. Ball winners: Michael Baillie 33, Pat Ernst 32.

NTP: 8th John McKenzie, 13th Ian Dinsdale.

Tuesday, May 30 - Stableford

Winner: Joy Hester 32.

Ball winners: Linda Stone (2) 30, Jackie O’Brien 30, Robyn Ottaway 29.

NTP: 8th Joy Hester, 13th Marilyn Pane, 17th Joy Hester.

Wednesday, May 31 - Par

A Grade Winner: Glenn O’Connell

+1. B Grdae Winner: Pat Grady +3. C

Grade Winner: Zak Andrewartha +2.

Ball Winners: Ian Dinsdale0, Alex Gibbs 0, Ian Mills 0, Eon Scott -1, Noel Holmes -1, Michael Monro -1, Neville Hogan -2, Bill O’Brien -2 C/B.

Wednesday, May 31 - Stableford

Winner: Leo McCoy 14, Ash Robins 12.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

WOMENS Competition: 18 Hole

Stableford: May 23

1st Round Women’s Knockout

Jenny Kerr def. Carol Coghill 5/4.

Lorraine Adams def. Glenda Dodson 1 Up (19th).

Dawn Fleet def. Carolyn Sullivan

6/5. Julie McInnes def. Karen Smith

2/1.

Runner Up: Greg Sullivan 35 C/B Points. Ball Winners: Michael Cordier, Bill Dodd.

NTP: 4th Scott Thomson, 7th Tom McAtee, 11th Michael Cordier, 13th Greg Sullivan, 16th Rod Moyle.

9 Hole Statbleford

Winner: Greame Beale 20 Points.

Runner Up: Bob Hayne 19 Points.

Womens Competition: 18 Hole Stableford: May 25

Winners: Lesley Anderson 42 Points. Runners Up: Dawn Fleet 38 Points.

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Julie McInnes 17 Points. Runner Up; Glenda Dodson 15 Points.

NTP: 11th Julie McInnes, 13th Marlene Thompson.

Men’s Competition: 2BBB Stableford: May 27

Overall Winners: Phillip Moss & Arnold Sparks 49 Points. Runners

Up: Scott Thomson & Glen Seymour 47 Points. Ball Winners: Arthur Ingarfield, Laurie Miller, Rod Moyle, Trevor Trimble, Rod Godde, Alastair McLean, Russell Wallace, Peter Crawford, Trevor Cooper, Ash Clayton.

NTP: 4th Ash Clayton, 7th Chris Martens, 9th Russell Wallace, 11th Jason McCoy, 13th Bob Murray, 16th Rod Moyle.

Eagle: Chris Martens. Birdie: Neil Membrey. Raffle: Sue Chatfield.

Women’s Competition

Winner: Barb Thomas 37 Points. Runner Up: Janette Collier 33 Points.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

TARRAWINGEE Golf Club Results Saturday, May 27.

The members played the fourth round of the club championships with the best three rounds to count and the 2023 club champion after not being able to play the last round was Jason McCoy with a scratch total of 250, this is the tenth year Jason has won the Tarrawingee club championship so congratulations must go to Jason McCoy for this achievement over so many years.

The runner up in the scratch division for the championships was Mark Nolan with a total of 259.

The winner of the handicap was Manny Tanirau with a nett 204, the runner up was Pete Nolan nett 213.

Congratulations to all the above winners for the 2023 championships.

The daily winner was Manny Tanirau 84-16-68, runner up Pete Nolan nett70 and a ball to Leo McCoy nett 75.

Monthly Awards: Birdies Jason McCoy. Gobblers Pete Nolan. Captains Trophy Lindsay Steer. Secretaries Trophy Manny Tanirau.

Golf on Saturday, June 3 will be a stroke event for the Monthly Medal.

Ladies are asked to attend as there will always be a separate event for them.

The hit off times for Saturday’s are 11:30am roll up for a 12noon start, we ask members to be early to enable the days program to be organised.

Members are reminded that the Ladies Tournament will be held on Friday, June 2 and are asked to assist on the day.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428122590 or by contacting a member of the club.

CROQUET

RESULTS for Monday, May 29 are as follows:

Maureen O’Keefe and Cheryle Bec kley d Elise Downes and Elaine McDonald 7/4, Margaret Bennett and Susan Fischer d Gavan Kelly and Dawn Wind 7/2,Christine Ireland and Nathan Reynolds d Joan Dyson and Robyn Muller 7/4.

On Wednesday only two members braved the wintry conditions and played three games of Singles Advantage Handicap.

Advantage Handicap does not have extra turns, but the higher handicapped person starts with hoops credited to them.

Depending on the opposition handicap they may start with one, two or three hoops.

If they start with three they only have to run four hoops to win the game while the opposition still need to run seven.

Christine Ireland defeated Terry Wilson with scores of 7/5, 5/7 and 7/5.

Playing days are Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1pm.

Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact one of the numbers listed below.

President Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

UNDER THE LIGHTS: Janet Heath, Janice Turriff, Allister Olsson and Gary Coad sweat it out at Oxley table tennis on Monday night.

PHOTO: Neil Brock

JOSH COONAN

WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Kurt Hickling made his way to O&K football and O&M netball on Saturday to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.

HARRISON MCCARTHY

BROOKE PRYSE

FRASER LANDGREN

SAMUEL GLADSTONE

ISSY NEWTON

GEORGIA CLARK

AMANDA UMANSKI

ELLIE COOPER

BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

WARM CONGRATULATIONS:

Pictured is Mick Seymour presenting Rosa D’Angelo with a prize for the longest drive by a lady on Boorhaman Golf Club’s open day event..

Boorhaman Golf Club’s 2023 season underway

ON a rather cold Saturday, a warm crowd turned up to the opening of the Boorhaman Golf Club for 2023.

A 2/3 person Ambrose event was held and all participants enjoyed the day followed by a barbecue lunch.

Dragons on the rise in Albury Wodonga Hockey

SUNDAY’S game for the women’s division two team was a high-pressure match.

The Magpies put together a very strong team who played short-totarget passes.

The Dragons took a little while to work out how to best play against this team but by the fourth quarter, they had become tough competition.

The final score was 2-0 to the Magpies and the Dragons made them work hard to get in their second goal.

The standout team member of the day was coach Chris Howell who rearranged the players to create a strong and competitive team.

The div three ladies put up a fight playing against the top team, Wodonga Maroon.

Carli Notman put in a huge effort defending the goals for Wangaratta, however, Dragons were defeated 4-0.

Junior Dragon Adara Evans has been playing for the div three women lately and is improving each game and can sneak a ball from the opposition quite easily.

The Dragons have some motherdaughter duos who play togetherJane Kealy and Lucy ‘Mouse’ Dwyer alongside Shanlee North and Lucy North.

The squad is halfway through the season and getting stronger each game.

The under 12 girls travelled up the highway to take on the Falcons.

The teams are situated close to each other, with the Dragons at fourth and Falcons at third.

Wangaratta started confidently with Emma Shallue scoring within the first minute of the game.

A second goal made it 2-0 at quarter time, before the Falcons hit back

in the second quarter to make it 2-2 at half-time.

Once again Wangaratta scored early in the third quarter and dominated most play in the second half.

Defenders such as Jordanna Moore and Claudia Kerr thwarted any attack.

The midfield group of Isabella Coghetto, Caitlyn Barnden and Isabell Lewis provided plentiful opportunities for the forwards to capitalise on.

Kiana Lane led the scoring with three goals while Emma Shallue put two past the Falcons goalie.

The young Dragons are gaining confidence heading into the midpoint of the season, with the final score a 5-2 win to Wangaratta.

The under 16 girls had their first home game on Saturday against the top of the ladder United.

It was a really defensive game as United’s attack was impressive and

proved hard to stop.

With two players out due to illness two under 14 players, Sophie Shallue and Lily Radnor, stepped up and worked extremely hard in defence.

United’s first quarter was full-on but the girls never put their heads down and bounced back with teamwork and communication.

Ayla McIntyre worked hard in defence and was named player of the match.

Her improvement over the last couple of weeks shows that her hard dedication at training is starting to pay off

Lily Gibb put the pressure straight back to United taking the ball and attacking head on and scoring our first goal since round one.

The United coach came over with words of encouragement on how well the team played and gave our goalie Eva Siperki their encourage-

ment award for her efforts in goals.

The under 14s were at home in Wangaratta against Corowa United.

Captained by Lily Radnor, the team performed extremely well this week with Jake Lane dominating scoring an amazing three goals in the first half.

It was an outstanding effort which earned him the best on ground this week.

Even though the Dragons caught Corowa out with three early goals, they soon came back with three goals themselves.

Adara Evans scored in the second half to put Wangaratta ahead 4-3 with about 10 minutes remaining.

It was down to the wire and great to watch but unfortunately Corowa scored in the last few minutes and drew the game 4-4.

The encouragement award went to Brody Chisholm who did everything that was asked of him in defence.

It was a great effort all round and really encouraging to start scoring some goals.

It’s been a tough couple of weeks for the division three men, but it hasn’t dampened the men’s spirits at all.

With some experienced key defenders on the injured list it was left to juniors Sam Couche and Henry Findlay to step up and step up they did, controlling the defence like true veterans of the sport.

Although the men conceded two goals in the first half it stop them fighting.

In true Dragon style they came out stronger in the second half and dominated.

With a goal from Simon Lipshut and some great play from Alex Ellem the men won the second half although it wasn’t quite enough to take the win.

Thanks to all who attended and helped at the event.

Winners on the day were Bob Jones and Aaron Wardle with 31 SB points on a countback from Maureen Fogarty, Pam Ling and Rosa D’Angelo.

Bob also won the prize for the longest drive.

Next main event is a 9-hole chook run to be held on Wednesday, June 7.

Anyone can play at any time throughout that day.

Cards to be put in the letterbox near the hall door.

The winner will be announced and presented with a chook the following week.

Willett climbs to top two in the world

JAMES Willett has climbed to second in the world in the men’s trap after a strong showing at Almaty.

Willett said he’s stoked to be back among the sport’s best.

“I was really proud to have come away with back-to-back World Cup medals from Cairo (Bronze) and Almaty (Silver),” Willett said.

“It’s the first time I have been inside the top three in the world since 2019 where I managed to make it to number one.

“It is a rewarding feeling to be back up there with some of the great men’s trap shooters who I look up to in the sport.”

FLICK PASS: Andrew Smith sees an option downfield he likes and prepares to pass the ball.

CHARGE: Wangaratta’s defenders rush forward to block a corner shot.

PHOTOS: Kylie Samson

James Willett

IN BRIEF

MATCH PREVIEWS

Hoppers head up the mountain

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THEY’VE been one of the most improved outfits in the O&K competition, but as the league hits its halfway mark tomorrow, a true test awaits Moyhu at Pioneer Park in Bright.

Sitting at fifth on the ladder with an even sheet after walking away from last year with the wooden spoon, Moyhu’s ascension has largely been to coach Darren Bell and a raft of young, hungry and talented players pulling on the yellow V.

“It’s an exciting time,” Bell said.

“We’re trying different things at training, and as we’re playing games we’re learning what we need to work on, and they’re taking it really well.

“It’s been good to get a couple of wins in a row, I don’t think they’ve done that for four or five years.

“It’s good to see a few of the boys who have been there for a few years smile after the game - they’re just rapt they’re competitive and can win a few games now.

“Who knows what we can do with all these young kids we’ve brought out?

“They know they can play a role for us and get better every week.”

Moyhu will need to be on song late in the game, after multiple instances of errant goalkicking during the fourth quarter in previous weeks (3.8 vs Goorambat, 3.8 vs King Valley).

The Hoppers will also need to mind Bright’s scoring wunderkind Cooper Thomason, who leads the league in goal kicking with 40 snags from seven matches.

“We’ll have a match-up for all their forwards,” Bell said.

“Cooper’s only a young boy, I remember him in the juniors - the kid’s really taken the league by storm.

“We’ve just got to cut the supply down, we’ve got a few little plans for all their forwards.

“We’ll see how it all happens in the midfield, because they bat pretty deep in there, it’s going to be a big battle in the middle to be won.

“If we can nullify the delivery, then who knows?

“It’ll be a big test, I know some of the boys are a bit toey - they know this is the game we’ve been training for and we’ll see how we go.”

The Hoppers take on Bright at Pioneer Park tomorrow, with the reserves match starting from 12pm and the seniors getting underway from 2pm.

Lions hunting prey before league bye

IT’S been a difficult nine weeks of competition for the Whorouly Lions, but a win at home tomorrow over a languishing Bulldogs side could be just the shot in the arm they need to rip into the second half of the season.

The Lions sit at eighth on the ladder with a 2-6 record going into round 10 tomorrow, but are only two wins off a top six spot, meaning they’re still in the conversation despite results not going their way early.

“The first half of our season has been a roller coaster,” senior coach Riley Calvene said.

“We’ve been hit with numerous injuries to some of our key players

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

such as Sam Ferguson, Ezekiel Traczyk and Rhys Goodley.

“We’ve had two really promising wins and have been thereabouts with every side we’ve played - we’ve lacked some consistency and continuity in our game but have had patches of brilliance.

“We’ve been able to play a really physical and fast-flowing brand, but as a young side we haven’t been able to sustain it for long enough.

“I think we’ve just got to stick to

our structure no matter what.

“We’re going to come up against good sides, and if we can hold our own and play the way we want, our best is good enough - it’s just about being able to handle the opposition’s pressure a little bit better.”

The Lions host Tarrawingee tomorrow, who are starting to hit their straps off the back of their first win of the season last week over Benalla All Blacks.

Calvene said his squad isn’t underestimating their opposition, but aimed to take the win to galvanise the playing group heading into the post-bye season.

“A win on Saturday would definitely energise the group,” he said.

“They had a great win against Benalla last week, so their tails will be up.

“We’ve got to top their intensity and get back to what we do well, we’ve got to be clean with the ball and change angle and take the game on - if we can do those things really well, we’ll see what happens tomorrow.

“We believe we are a finals side, we just need to get the wheel rolling and get some wins on the board.”

In other round 10 matches, the Hawks travel down to Bonnie Doon, Bright hosts the Hoppers, Greta takes on King Valley at home, and Milawa plays Goorambat.

Dominant Demons to defend home deck

By NATHAN DE VRIES

MILAWA is the only as yet undefeated team in the A grade competition, a title they’ll be looking to hold onto before the league-wide bye next week.

To do so, they’ll have to defend their home court against a surging Goorambat side which can never be counted out of the contest.

Demons’ coach Kerrie Gray said her side was aware of how well they’d played the first half of the season, but wouldn’t let it get to their heads on the court.

“You can come unstuck really quickly when you get too focused on big goals like that,” she said.

“We play a quarter at a time, four quarters a week, then we head in and get ready for the next game

“We’ve had some really good wins on the scoreboard - that doesn’t mean the games have been convincingly easy.

“If we shift too far from that and start looking at big picture stuff,

we’ll quickly come undone.

“I think there are some really tough teams in the competition that might not get the wins on the board but they still make the journey during the game quite difficult.”

Gray’s first half-season at the helm has been exceptionally positive, with an established squad welcoming new ideas and incorporating a newer perspective to game-day.

“I’ve been really pleased, the girls are open to everything, we’ve been working really hard making sure we’re getting some really solid sessions in on the track,” she said.

“Hearing a new voice and taking on a new direction, they’ve really embraced it and we’ve had no issues.

“With that comes a lot of change, given I haven’t spent the last 10, 15 or 20 years at the club, I probably have brought in some different things from my netball experience.

“The girls have been so open to it, they’re working so hard to take things on board and we work as a

real collective to sort through what’s working and what’s not working.

“I think that’s why we’ve had some success thus far.

“It’s been a real pleasure.”

Milawa’s opponents tomorow, Goorambat, sits fifth on the ladder and are coming off the back of a consistent run of strong form, including a three-goal win over Moyhu last weekend.

“I’ve got respect for every team in the competition and Goorambat is no different to that,” Gray said.

“We’ll go in with a whole heap of respect for the netball they’ll play this year and what they’ve played in the past.

“We’ll just be focusing on making sure we’re executing our game plan and the brand of netball we want to play.”

The A grade battle between Milawa and Goorambat begins from 2.15pm tomorrow at the Milawa Recreation Reserve, with the day’s netball contests commencing with the under 15s from 9.30am.

DAY OF THE DEMON: If Mic Larkings and Milawa defeat Goorambat tomorrow, they’ll enter the halfway point of the season undefeated.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

TURNING A CORNER: Lions’ coach Riley Calvene says a win tomorrow will help set the stage for a tremendous second half of the season for Whorouly.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

Top two clash for Lady Devils

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE Lady Devils’ defenders will have their work cut out for them this Sunday, when Wangaratta City take top of the table Albury Hotspurs at Jelbart Park.

After falling to Melrose 3-4 last weekend, Wangaratta will be keen to get back to their winning ways, and a victory over the thundering Hotspurs would send tremors through the competition.

Coach Dan Kelly said his side would play to their strengths this Sunday.

“We had a good, strong training session with some things in place to try to stop them with the strengths that they have,” he said.

“We’ll try to utilise our

strengths, we worked on that on Thursday night and we’ll try and put it in place on Sunday.

“Being 3-1 up at the half (against Melrose), we probably got a bit complacent and didn’t turn up for the second half and got punished.

“The girls have just got to know their jobs and pull it together - as long as they work really hard, I wouldn’t be shocked if they can come away with the points.”

The Hotspurs’ goal difference is leagues beyond the rest of the competition, having conceded 11 while booting 43 of their own, which means the young Lady Devils’ defenders will be under the pump.

“I’m not too worried, because if we concede two, I

know we can score four,” Kelly said.

“The backline we’ve got at the moment, I don’t think there’s anyone over the age of 18 years old, so they’re a young backline.

“These next couple of years, it’s all about development, getting these girls playing time and as they get older they’ll understand things, what to do and what not to do.

“They will probably score against us, but as long as we can match them in the middle of the park and take our chances when we can, we can always be a threat.”

Kelly said the midfield would be where the game will be won or lost.

“They’ve got some real quality through the mid-

dle, so I’ll try to consolidate the middle as much as I can, we’ll get lots of players around the ball so they can play the ball around, we’ll try and congest it,” he said.

“When that ball breaks, we’ll try and use our strengths going forward.

“The girls played them about five-six weeks ago, and we were all over them.

“We conceded two goals that were two goalkeeping errors and we scored two goals, so they can be challenged.

“These girls who are second on the ladder and are in the (FA Cup) semi-finals have not done a bad job.”

The top of the table clash between Wangaratta City and Albury Hotspurs gets underway this Sunday from 11.20am at Jelbart Park.

DEVILS WANT REVENGE ON BOOMERS

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City

returns from a week off with a meeting against Boomers at Glen Park scheduled.

The Devils will be eager to get revenge on Boomers who downed the Wangaratta side 3-2 at South Wangaratta Reserve in round five.

Once again it’s destined to be a tight contest with Wangaratta only a win ahead of Boomers on the table.

Wangaratta coach Raff Molinaro is hopeful this weekend will be a different result.

“We were a bit unlucky against them last time,” Molinaro said.

“We played them at a time when our starting 11 was a bit unsettled through injury so I reckon we’ll give them more of a challenge on Sunday.

“We’ll be pretty close to full strength this time around and I know the boys are keen to get one back on them.”

Molinaro said errors were the difference last time around.

“I think we just made some errors last time and our decision making wasn’t very good so that’ll definitely be a focus for us,” he said.

“They got a couple of penalties late which got

Saturday,

them back into it so we still showed that we’re capable of mixing it with them.

“Going off recent performances they’re probably not in the best form either so we just need to be at our best.”

Wangaratta’s squad looks to be one of the best of the year with the only possible out being Ethan Whiley who is still a possibility to play.

“Ethan Whiley’s a maybe but we’ll wait a few days before making that call,” Molinaro said.

“Besides that we should have everyone back, Alex Pitt will play and Jaxon Osmotherly returned against Myrtleford.

“We’ll take plenty of confidence out of the Myrtleford game, it was a great come from behind win.”

Meanwhile, the Devils were bundled out of the FA Cup on Wednesday night, falling to Cobram 6-1.

Wangaratta City battled unavailability with six senior players not taking the pitch.

“Wednesday nights in Albury can be hard for players with work and year 12 as well,” Molinaro said.

“We couldn’t field a full squad but it gave a few of the younger boys a taste of senior football which was a positive.”

READY TO GO: Alex Pitt and Wangaratta City take on Boomers at Glen Park tomorrow. PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

FORMIDABLE FOE: Claire Christison and the Lady Devils face a surging Albury Hotspurs squad on Sunday.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

Five straight is on the cards for Wangaratta

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA will be gunning for five straight victories when they meet Myrtleford at RC McNamara Reserve.

The Magpies will go into the clash as heavy favourites with the Saints so far struggling this year only adding one win to their name.

But after falling to North Albury in a horror display last weekend, Myrtleford will be keen to improve in front of their home crowd.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid is expecting a challenge.

“I think last weekend’s game was a bit of an abnormality for Myrtleford,” Reid said.

“They’ve been starting games really well and we saw that against Yarrawonga so we’ll have to be ready from the beginning.

“I think they’ll be pretty fired up, especially on their home deck.”

Despite only recording the one victory thus far, Reid still believes the Saints have enough talent to do damage.

“They’ve got some strong players, particularly in their midfield,” he said.

“Thei leaders all play mid with (Mitch) Dalbosco, (Brody) Ricardi and (Simon) Curtis in there so they’re all mature bodies that can cause damage.

“They’ve still got two talls forward in Riley Sharp and Kyle Winter-Irving too so they’ve got enough weapons.

“On their home deck they’re a different side as well.”

Wangaratta’s form is trending in

the right direction though with the Magpies winning the contested possession and clearance count against Lavington last weekend.

“I think our contest stuff has picked up around the ball over the past few weeks which has been pleasing,” Reid said.

“We’ve been heaps cleaner with ball in hand which is huge for us

Fight for second place between ‘Pies and Saints

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA netballers have the chance to go outright second on the ladder if they’re to win tomorrow.

The Magpies will meet the much improved Myrtleford at RC McNamara Reserve in what shapes as the match of the round.

Both sides sit on five wins each, although Wangaratta have played one more game than the Saints, but a win for either side would see them jump into outright second.

Wangaratta’s offence will

Wangaratta Rovers will face off with Yarrawonga

■ From back page

“Getting Michael Clarke and Jace McQuade back is huge for us because it allows ‘Boydy’ (Tom Boyd) to come forward,” Marklew said.

“’Boydy’ played down forward last weekend because Michael Clarke returned and that changed our forward line heaps.

when going forward because our half forwards are working so hard.

“I also think we’ve had more pressure on the ball carrier too.”

Wangaratta bull Matt Kelly could return this weekend with Brad Melville returning to VFL duties with Richmond, while Matt Grossman is a chance to play as well.

“Matt Kelly may return, he

played in the twos last week and got through,” Reid said.

“’Grossy’ (Grossman) will be a test so we’ll have to wait to see how he pulls up from training.

“The big one we’re still missing is Hunter Gottschling, I’m bullish on what he can give us when he returns. He’s someone I rate highly.”

“’Prime’ (Tom Baulch) and I have had to play deep forward for the start of the year and that’s probably not ‘Prime’s’ best position because his strength is his running and getting up the ground.

“So getting ‘Boydy’ back allowed ‘Prime’ to get up the ground and then we play deep.”

Marklew has booted 19 goals this season to sit second in the Doug Strang Medal behind Yarrawonga’s Leigh Williams on 28.

be up against it when they clash with the defence of the Saints that includes superstar Sophie Hanrahan.

The two-time Toni Wilson Medalist made the cross to Myrtleford after CorowaRutherglen were unable to fill an A grade side in 2023.

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers faces an almighty challenge when they clash with ladder leaders Yarrawonga at WJ Findlay Oval.

The Pigeons are yet to lose a game in season 2023, while on the complete flip side Rovers are yet to win a match.

ROUND EIGHT: Issy Newton and Wangaratta can jump to outright second with a win over Myrtleford.

“I think I’ve continued on the way I finished last year,” he said.

“Our mids have been good the last few weeks and have been putting the ball in good spots for me.

“With the team we have this year and the chance we have to play finals and push deep I just want to do everything I can to help that.

“For me it’s just about bringing the ball to ground and not getting outmarked because you can’t mark the ball every time it comes to you.”

RARING TO GO: Alex Marklew and Wangaratta Rovers take on Yarrawonga tomorrow.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

IN FORM: Daniel Sharrock will be hoping to continue his strong form when Wangaratta meets Myrtleford tomorrow.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Magpies historic medal finds its way home

No baseball but what about softball

NORTH East Baseball was a washout in all senior grade games on Sunday.

THE Wangaratta Football

and Netball Cub 1920 Most Popular Player Medal won by James Gleeson will go on display at the Magpies clubrooms after it was donated to the club last Saturday.

The medal was presented by Jim’s grandson Brett Smart to WFNC captain Daine Porter just before the senior team meeting before the clash with Lavington with players, officials and Jim’s grandchildren Noel Gleeson, Ray Smart, Margaret Barnes and Lynda Cuffe in attendance.

Jim was a key member of the 1920 Magpies premiership team and came from a well-known football family including three of his sons Bill, Jim and Frank who played for WFC with Frank going on to coach the Rovers reserves.

Brett said Jim’s daughter, Marie Boyd (nee Gleeson), was

president of the WFC Ladies Auxiliary for many years and was made a Life Member in 1964.

“Three of Jim’s grandsons, Brian, Barry, and Laurie, played in the 60s and 70s, and his great grandson, Chris Gleeson, played for Albury and was drafted to the Sydney Swans.

“His great-great-grandson Jack Yelland is now playing with Wodonga, Jack’s father Howard Yelland and grandfather Graham Broster both had long and distinguished playing careers with Wangaratta Rovers.”

He said the family decided it was time the medal went to the club.

“After 100 plus years of the medal being in the family, it was agreed the time was right for the WFNC to display it as part of the club’s long running history in the community,” Brett said.

Poppy’s

off to South Korea

WANGARATTA’S own soccer star Poppy O’Keeffe has been named in the CommBank Junior Matildas under 17 side for their two-match international series against Korea Republic.

The squad will travel to Paju, north of Seoul in Gyeonggi Province for a match on Tuesday, June 6 before backing up three days later for the second match on Friday, June 9.

Both international friendlies will be played at the Korea Football Association’s National Football Centre. The tour comes after Australia hosted Korea Republic last October.

O’Keeffe is one of 22 players picked for the trip, which will serve as preparations for the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Round 2 Qualifiers.

“Korea Republic are one of the strongest nations in

this age group and we are looking forward to challenging ourselves against one of the best in Asia in this series,” head coach Rae Dower said.

“We are appreciative of the support from Football Australia and our hosts, the Korea Football Association, for investing in and creating this opportunity for our best young players to continue to learn their craft against quality opposition.

“We want to build on the partnership established with Korea Republic, continuing to work together annually to present development opportunities for these players.”

INTERNATIONAL PLAYER: Poppy O’Keeffe has been named in the 22-person squad for the Junior Matildas’ two-match series in Korea Republic.

Coaching

It is well documented that quality environments and coaching within clubs is closely linked to why participants get involved in football and stay long term.

THE INNER SANCTUM

HONOURED TO

BE HOME: Brett Smart (right) presents WFNC captain Daine Porter with the Jim Gleeson medal. HISTORY: Jim Gleeson’s 1920 Most Popular Player Medal (below).

The Wangaratta Baseball Softball Sports Club is hoping to revive softball for women and young girls during the daylight savings months.

Softball was a great success in Wangaratta and district during the late 1990s early 2000 with A grade, B grade and junior competitions with teams coming from Euroa, Benalla, Bright and Chiltern together with the six or seven clubs from within Wangaratta.

The Wangaratta Baseball Softball Sports Club hopes to get women back into the sport which is a non-contact sport for all the family to enjoy.

If you are interested in getting a team together in your town or just interested in playing, there will be a general meeting held in late August to discuss teams, playing times and days/nights.

For more information, please contact Kevin Pool on 0427 195 456 or 5721 3315 or your local baseball club can help you out.

This Sunday’s draw:

 A Grade

Bears v Rangers at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

Warriors v Panthers at Porepunkah.

 B Grade Bears v Rangers Orange at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

Panthers v Warriors at Porepunkah.

Rangers Grey v Benalla at Targoora Park, Wangaratta.

 C Grade Bears v Rangers at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

Warriors v Panthers at Porepunkah.

 Under 15 Bears v Rangers at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

Panthers v Warriors at Porepunkah.

Bandits have the bye.

 Under 12 Bears v Rangers at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

Panthers v Warriors at Porepunkah.

Club Development Lead Role

AFLNEB is excited to off a new role within the region that will be crucial in supporting local clubs and leagues across the region!

reported for any of the following Reportable Offences:

(a) intentionally striking, kicking, kneeing, stomping, eye-gouging or head-butting another person;

(b) intentionally striking or making contact with an Umpire;

A key focus for AFLNEB in 2023 is growing the number of registered coaches and providing more education and workshops for our coaches. Pleasingly we have had an increase of over 8% in registered coaches to a total of 267 across all leagues in 2023. So far there have been 3 workshops delivered across the region with a focus on providing an informative induction process and providing practical advice for coaching at training and on game day. We will continue to deliver these sessions throughout the remainder of the 2023 season.

AFLNEB is also lucky to have the services of local coaching identity, Justin McMahon who is working as a Coach Developer within the region. Justin is available to work one on one with clubs to build a club coaching charter, developing club coaching philosophies, and upskilling coaches.

The role of the Club Development Lead is to lead volunteers (committees and boards) across all AFL Victoria affiliated community clubs. The CDL will work with volunteers to build their capacity and assist them in performing key duties whilst building self sufficiency in clubs.

More information on the role and how to apply can be found via AFL North East Borders Social Media pages and on our website, or you can contact zac.hedin@afl. com.au.

Random Rule

23.2 ORDER OFF REPORTABLE OFFENCES

In addition to being reported, a field or emergency Umpire shall order the Player reported from the Playing Surface for the remainder of the Match if the Player is

(c) attempting to strike or make contact with an Umpire;

(d) using abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene language towards or in relation to an Umpire;

(e) behaving in an abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene manner towards or in relation to an Umpire;

(f) spitting on another person;

(g) an act of serious misconduct.

A Controlling Body may specify other Reportable Offences or conduct for which a Player may be ordered from the Playing Surface for the remainder of the Match.

Whisper

Which player has contacted League HQ enquiring about presentation night dates, stating – ‘If they want me there to accept my award they better get it in my diary early’

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

2023 AFL business tipping footy

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta

P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

WEBSTERS

LightinguptheNorthEastsince1929

round

Friday, June 2

Melbourne vs. Carlton (MCG) (N)

Saturday, June 3

Port Adelaide vs. Hawthorn (AO)

West Coast Eagles vs. Collingwood (OS) (T)

Western Bulldogs vs. Geelong Cats (MRVL) (N)

Gold Coast SUNS vs. Adelaide Crows (TIO) (N)

Sunday, June 4

GWS GIANTS vs. Richmond (GS)

Essendon vs. North Melbourne (MRVL) (T)

leaderboard after round 11

Dameon Holmes .68

Brett Anderson ...67

Chris Doyle ........67

Max Webster ......66

Tom the Baker .....66

Jess Maddy ..........65

Dave Harrop ........65

Rob Bell ...............65

Beth Watson ........64

Carlo De Napoli ....64

Kent Wathen ........64

Nick Bell ..............64

Jack Lancaster .......62

James Salafia .........61

Nicci Bettles ..........61

Sean Barrett ..........61

Jack Penny ...........60

Pranav Menon ......60

Shayne Gannon ....60

Tom McCurdy .......57

Trent Terry ............57

Cassie Hall

Helen Haines

OPEN SPACE

Blockbuster ahead

Wangaratta Rovers will face off with Yarrawonga at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow ggy

WANGARATTA Rovers

will face their biggest challenge of the year tomorrow.

Fresh off handing Wodonga their first loss of the season, the Rovers will be hoping to replicate that result against arguably the premiership favourites in Yarrawonga.

The Pigeons have been outstanding this year, only dropping one game which came in round one against Albury.

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

Wangaratta Rovers forward Alex Marklew said his side is trending in the right direction.

“We got six players back last weekend so that strengthened our depth a heap and I think we should get a couple more back this weekend,” Marklew said.

“We played the way we wanted to against Wodonga and took control from the first bounce.

“We had an emphasis on our defence and our offence then worked off that nicely so hopefully we can build on that this weekend.

“Yarrawonga are looking like the number one side so we need to forget about last week and focus on them now.”

The Hawks downed Yarrawonga at WJ Findlay

Oval last year in one of the games of the year which will only bring confidence to the home side.

“We don’t mind playing at home,” Marklew said.

“We feel like if we’re with a side at three quarter time we’re always going to back ourselves in but in saying that we want to get to a point where we’re not in that position when it’s tight at three quarter time.

Yarrawonga’s midfield is stacked with brothers Willie

and Harry Wheeler, and Mark Whiley in there, along with Corowa-Rutherglen recruit Cam Wilson.

But the big news story of the week could be the return of former Carlton player Michael Gibbons who has been out since round one after hobbling off with a hamstring injury against Albury.

“Their mids are definitely their strength with the Wheelers and then Cam Wilson in there as well,

they’re a tightly knit group,” Marklew said.

“What our mids have done over the last few weeks has been great though, I think they’ve proved that they can go up against anyone.”

Wangaratta Rovers could see the return of key defender Jace McQuade, which will only strengthen the Rovers backline after fellow backman Michael Clarke played his first game back last weekend.

■ Continued page 48

WANGARATTA Dragons player Charles Webster eludes his Corowa-Rutherglen United opponents in the division three match last weekend.

Story: Page 45

PHOTO: Kylie Samson