Wangaratta Chronicle 041223

TODAY

29o Fog then sunny

35o 33o 29o TUE

WED

THURS

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Monday, December 4, 2023

$1.80 INC. GST

Phone (03) 5723 0100

PEDESTRIAN APPEAL ON CROSSINGS

SPLASHING INTO OUR SUMMER NASHJUL Gradina of Wangaratta made the most of the sporadic bouts of sunshine on Saturday by cooling off at the Wangaratta Splashpark.

The four-year-old wasn’t the only one seeking some refuge as the city reached a top temperature of 28.3 degrees, with people also heading to the Ovens River and Wangaratta outdoor pool for an afternoon swim.

Wangaratta’s relatively mild start to summer is forecast to heat up this week, with 29 degrees expected today, followed by tops of 35 degrees, 33 degrees, 29 degrees and 33 degrees for the remainder of the week.

It comes after a much drier than average spring for Wangaratta.

■ Full story page 2.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Page 3

NHW STAFF HONOURED WITH AWARDS

Pages 10, 11

CITY COLTS ROLL WANG MAGPIES

Sport

SPORTING HOPE The Academyy 2.0 on the cards as council looks at options p to secure funding g

A SPORT based education program, The Academy, which formerly operated in Wangaratta under ex-AFL footballer Alex Rance, could return to the rural city, with council’s newly elected mayor and deputy fully behind a revitalisation of the initiative.

Mayor Dean Rees and

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton spoke about the idea for council to work with a provider such as GOTAFE to secure funding so the pro-

gram could be provided for local students in 2025.

While the program would aim to resemble the course that students had studied since 2017, Cr Rees said there was scope to take in students with interests across different sporting codes.

It would help to address a skills shortage in Wangaratta

across sports, recreation and leisure, which the councillors say currently exists.

“The Academy certainly needs funding and cohesion between council and GOTAFE or another education body that can make sure we can get it going,” Cr Rees said.

“There are a lot of people

that this program fits and we could even expand the program into female sport and not just Aussie rules football but other sports to help these kids further their education.

“Education is one of our big goals as we want to keep people local and there are people who are not academ-

ically minded but they have a sporting background.

“We have jobs in this field in the sport, recreation and leisure who we can’t find the right people for, so to be able to open this up and give them pathways into other areas, this is a perfect program.”

■ Continued page 2

SALE THIS

WEDNESDAY 7:30AM - 5.30PM

MERCH GIVEAWAYS

TOOL TEST DRIVES 26 TONE ROAD, WANGARATTA y 5722 2288

BONUS PRODUCTS

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

By CHLOE JAENICKE

Police industrial action for better pay, conditions

Drier spring than usual NOVEMBER’S rainfall of 37.2mm has helped cement a significantly drier than average spring season for Wangaratta.

The city’s total spring rainfall of 120.6mm (9.8mm in September, 73.6mm in October and 37.2mm in November) is well down on the 156.8mm spring average over the past 36 years and a dramatic drop from last year’s 370.4mm spring total for the season.

The spring season was punctuated by our second

driest September in the past 100 years, behind 9.7mm in September of 1946.

Wangaratta’s heaviest daily November rainfall of 17mms fell on November 29, when other towns recorded 75.8mms at Rutherglen, 81mms at Albury, 76mms at Benalla and 51.2mms at Yarrawonga which were all above average.

Wangaratta’s hottest November day was Saturday, November 11 with 36.7 degrees, with Yarrawonga recording 38.6°C , Rutherglen 37.5°C, Benalla 35.4°C and Albury 37.3°C.

Average maximum temperatures in Wangaratta this spring were only slightly warmer than the averages between 1987 and 2023.

The city’s maximum averages were 20.3°C in September, 20.4°C in October and 27.3°C in November, compared to the 36 year averages of 17.7°C, 21.5°C and 25.8°C. The city’s mean minimum temperature for November was 10.3 degrees and this was nearly a degree above the November normal with the lowest temperature falling to 4.7 on November 1.

According the Bureau of

Meteorology, Australia’s overall spring rainfall was around 23 per cent below average, while the national mean temperature around was 1.7°C above the 1961–1990 average and tracking in the top 5 warmest springs on record.

The bureau has also predicted an unusually warm summer with a more neutral rainfall signal.

National manager of climate services, Dr Karl Braganza, said there are increased risks of extreme heat, heatwaves, bushfire weather and marine heatwaves while El Nino is predicted to con-

tinue over the summer.

“El Nino is typically associated with a drier than average wet season in parts of Australia’s tropical north while its influence on rainfall over southern parts of Australia wanes over summer,” he said.

According to Dr Braganza the dry and warm conditions over spring along with the warm summer forecast are also contributing to an elevated fire risk this season.

“This summer all communities across Australia are urged to prepare for bushfire and monitor local conditions,” he said.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

TEMPERATURES: Monday

Max 29

Min 11

Fog then sunny

Tuesday

Max 35

Min 13

Mostly sunny

Wednesday Max 33

Min 16

Mostly sunny

Thursday

Max 29

Min 15

Clearing shower

RAINFALL: Wangaratta Lake Buffalo Cheshunt

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

8.8mm 10.2mm 14.2mm

25.8mm 25.2mm 41.6mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Sunday

LUCKY NUMBERS Tattslotto - Draw 4419

22, 42, 10, 23, 21, 14 (11, 7) Winning numbers are subject to verification by ticket holders.

NEWS TIPS

The Academy 2.0 on the cards as council looks at options to secure funds, educator ■ From page 1

Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

CONTACTS POSTAL ADDRESS: 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0101 DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 Fax: 03 5721 9447 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Website: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

The Chronicle is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council.

If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Chronicle itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

Member

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY: Mayor Dean Rees believes Wangaratta is missing a chance to offer young people more educational opportunities in the way of sport and recreation qualifications.

Council has consulted with other organisations which do similar programs and with GOTAFE and further meetings will be held in the coming weeks and next year.

“We also have some people who are prepared to inject finances from the private sector as well to make sure this can go forward,” Cr Rees said.

The Academy students actively used the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic (WSAC) facility, which is owned and operated by council.

Cr Benton emphasised WSAC and what it brings to the community in the way of a facility offering outstanding wellbeing and mental health benefits.

“All the governments have to make sure kids don’t fall through the gaps and I think something we’ve missed for years here is the education side of it,” he said.

“I fully support Dean to do whatever we can with this and get the other agencies to combine and come in, instead of working in silos.”

There was controversy in September as existing students of The Academy were told the course would not be offered beyond this year with inferences that the business model lacked financial sustainability.

GOTAFE and The Academy said at the time that they explored options to continue the program, but the level of investment necessary to continue the partnership between The Academy and GOTAFE and deliver a quality program was no longer feasible.

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER VICTORIA Police members have commenced industrial action in support of improved pay and conditions.

Members yesterday implemented the action, after what the Victorian Police Association said was an impasse following five months of negotiations with Victoria Police.

Association secretary Wayne Gatt said members are seeking a four per cent annual pay rise and improved working conditions, such as nine-hour shifts.

“Our members are not getting the work-life balance they need to manage a stressful and traumatic occupation,” Mr Gatt said on Sunday.

“Our members are working hundreds of hours in unpaid overtime....their rosters are inconsistent and unpredictable.”

The action comes amid an onging workforce challenge for Victoria Police which is trying to recruit another 800 officers.

Mr Gatt said a survey of current members found that 28 per cent were considering quitting the force over the next 12 months and up to 70 per cent were suffering from “burnout”.

Under the current industrial action there is a ban on overtime and a raft of administrative bans, but the association said public safety and community policing duties were not being undermined.

Shadow Minister for Police, Brad Battin, yesterday called on Premier Jacinta Allan to urgently address years of under-resourcing, falling staff levels, plummeting morale and increasingly difficult working conditions.

“Victoria Police has over 800 vacancies, 43 stations which have closed overnight and now over a quarter of officers saying they are going to leave,” he said.

“Police Minister Anthony Carbines is again missing in action and the Premier needs to step in and fix the crisis in our police force.”

Bonegilla migrants’ stories take centre stage

By SIMONE KERWIN WANGARATTA resident Simon Reich’s multi-media show ‘Bonegilla - The Migrant’s Journey’ will be held at the Melbourne Museum Theatre on Thursday, December 7 and Friday, December 8.

In addition to 7.30pm shows on both days, there will be a 1.30pm matinee at the theatre on Friday, December 8.

The show grew from Simon’s

podcast about the life of his father Manfred, ‘Up From the Rubble’.

During the making of this series, Simon discovered his connection with the Bonegilla migrant camp near Albury/Wodonga.

“This whetted my appetite to capture more stories from postwar immigrants, and this show is the culmination of many years of research and interviews,” Simon said.

The multimedia show runs for around 1.5 hours, and features

filmed first-hand interviews with people from various European countries.

It includes migrants’ own photographs and videos, sound design and a string quartet (all members of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra) and grand piano live music played as the soundtrack for the complete running time.

“This show is nothing like a dry and dusty history lesson,” Simon said.

“It is a multi-media presentation, and the migrants tell of their war experiences, why they wanted to travel to the other side of the world, and how they fared in their newly-adopted country.

“At times it’s tragic, disheartening and racist, but ultimately, it’s a feel-good story of gutsy and inspirational people who created the backbone of Australian society.”

For more information and to book tickets, visit http://www.bonegillamigrants.com.au/

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 3

200 local property owners told to reduce fire risk ABOUT 200 property owners in the Rural City of Wangaratta have been put on notice to clean up their land to remove fire hazards and reduce risk in the last month.

Council has an inspection and enforcement role to minimise risk on private land and has responsibilities as a landowner and

land manager with respect to some public land. A council spokesperson said the protection of life and property is “paramount”, and where risks are identified council’s municipal fire prevention officer will issue a notice to the property owner responsible for the identified hazard.

In the past month the of-

ficer had issued almost 200 municipal fire prevention notices to property owners requesting they reduce their fire hazard.

The majority of these properties are in residential areas, but some have been issued in farm zones.

Recipients of a municipal fire prevention notice will receive simple, clear

instructions on how to remove the risk, and a date by which that needs to be done.

“Fire prevention is a shared community responsibility and anyone who lives near bush, forest or grassland needs to prepare their property for fire,” the council spokesperson said.

“Reducing the vegetation

around your home is one of the most important things you can do to keep you home safe.”

The fire danger period is now active for District 23 including Wangaratta and surrounding towns, until May 1, 2024.

If you require more information regarding what you can and cannot do during

Pedestrian plea over CBD crossing safety Wheelchair Wh l h i b bound d resident id says y h he’s sick i k off b being i g hi hit by vehicles hi l A LOCAL resident who commutes mainly by wheelchair because he has lost all his toes due to diabetes, is appealing to the public to slow down and be aware of pedestrians navigating crossings with Wangaratta’s CBD. Ian Virgo said he has been hit twice in the wheelchair by drivers and has had several other close calls crossing roads in Wangaratta at pedestrian crossings.

The 63 year old said “impatient drivers” have either not been paying attention to his presence on the crossing or they have been disrespectful of his right of way.

The incidents have occurred on roads in Wangaratta and also in supermarket carparks, which can be chaotic at the best of times.

“One lady hit me with her car in the Woolworths carpark and left a black imprint on the side of my wheelchair,” Mr Virgo said.

“People have hit me and they stop but all they say is ‘oh, I didn’t see you.

“I’m just getting sick and tired of it because it’s happening too many times and it’s not only me, it’s other people around on mobility scooters, people walking cars just do not give way to you.”

There was a recent incident where Mr Virgo came out of the chemist on Ovens

CRIME SCENE: Police have charged three teenagers over an alleged stabbing on White Street (pictured) on the early hours of Friday, September 29.

Teens charged following alleged stabbing in Wangaratta

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Street and he said he was halfway over the wombat crossing and a driver of a four-wheel-drive realised at the last second there was a wheelchair on the crossing.

“I had to put my foot up and I crashed into her car,” he said.

“Something has to be told to the public to be careful of pedestrians.”

There was another time he was crossing Baker Street and he said a car was doing at least 80kph in a 40kph zone and they missed him by about six inches.

“I fear for my safety every time I cross at a crossing and other people do as well,” he said.

Sergeant Trevor Schultz of Wangaratta police encouraged motorists and pedestrians to take equal responsibility on pedestrian crossings and between pedestrian crossings.

“It’s up to each party to be aware of their surroundings and motorists must give way to pedestrians until their lane is clear on uncontrolled pedestrian crossings,” he said.

“On controlled pedestrian crossings motorists need to remain stationary until the

the declared fire season, refer to the Warnings & Restrictions page of the Country Fire Association (CFA) website.

Residents are also advised to have a fire and emergency plan in place for their household, for more information refer to the Plan & Prepare page of the CFA’s website.

NOT SO SAFE ZONE: Ian Virgo fears for his safety every time he navigates a pedestrian crossing in Wangaratta.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling crossing supervisor is completely off the road.”

Sgt Schultz said pedes-

trians also have a responsibility of not walking or wheeling onto a roadway in

front of a vehicle expecting it to stop, just in case they haven’t seen you.

WANGARATTA Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three teens after an alleged stabbing and assault in Wangaratta.

It is alleged that two male victims were walking along White Street when they were approached by a group of offenders at about 2.20am on Friday, September 29.

A 17-year-old Newport boy was allegedly stabbed and airlifted to hospital with life threatening injuries.

An 18-year-old Wangaratta man was allegedly assaulted and taken to hospital.

Three teens were arrested in Benalla on November 2.

Two 16-year-old boys and a 17-year-old boy, all from Benalla, were charged with affray.

The trio have been bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Police said the investigation continues in relation to the other people involved.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH 11:30 TO 2:30 December 25th for a full Christmas lunch, live music and friendship *CAN YOU HELP? Contact Jon: 0410669908

Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan St, Wangaratta 0410 669 908

Ceremony, reception & flexible food & beverage packages available Scan for wedding brochure, pricing & to make an enquiry www.thevinehotel.net.au

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

Shaving an end to month of the ‘mo’

Heavy rain in Victoria and NSW

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?

By Peter Nelson, former CSIRO climatologist

AN inland low pressure developed a classical warm front which brought record daily rainfalls for November in the Riverina district and later across to the NSW coast around Nowra last week.

At Deniliquin a record fall for November of 135.4mms was easily a record and overall the second highest daily fall behind 153.4mms on March 16, 1878 in 165 years of records Interestingly the two months of February and March of 1878 were extremely wet totalling 413mms which was easily the wettest successive two months ever recorded at Deniliquin.

And this occurred during a rather strong El Nino situation.

In Victoria Swan Hill recorded 85.4mms in 24 hours to 9am last Wednesday, November 29.

This was the wettest November day since 111mms on November 12, 1998.

In the Wimmera heavy rain brought a total of 96.4mms at Nhill, making this the wettest November there since 102.5mms in 1916 in 140 years of records.

Back to NSW, Forbes recorded 95.2mms to Wednesday morning resulting in floods and this was not as wet as last November’s record daily fall of 118mms and many roads cut by floods.

Goulburn’s 98mms was a new daily fall for November surpassing the 93mms on November 20, 1961.

Point Perpendicular at Jervis Bay recorded its wettest November day on record with 226.8mms, surpassing the 1961 record of 175.8mms on November 20.

Perth has clocked up its hottest November on record.

The mean maximum temperature of 30.3 degrees surpassed the former record hottest November of 2010 by half a degree.

It was a very wet summer 2010-11 after a very wet year in Victoria.

The next hottest November in Perth was in 2017 which did lead to a hotter than normal summer in Victoria and dry for the most part except for brief heavy rain in early December 2017 and again near the end of January 2018.

This is the more likely outcome for the coming summer.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

FRESH FACE: Graeme Gregory couldn’t wipe the smile off his face as he embraced the community support shown towards his Movember cause.

GRAEME Gregory’s Big W Wangaratta Movember team have clipped the final hairs of their month long grown moustaches in a successful end to their men’s mental health cause.

Holding a community day at the Big W Wangaratta car park on Saturday afternoon, seven participants boasting finely manicured moustaches braved the shave as they raised a total of $3300 for the men’s mental health charity.

The shave off included a raffle with prizes donated by more than 40 supporting local businesses, and a sausage sizzle lunch put together by the Wangaratta Rotary Club which raised $1400 altogether.

Mr Gregory said it was a great day

out, with the event continuing to exceed his expectations year by year.

“I would like to thank all those businesses who supported us and all the fellow employees from Big W who helped in the selling of raffle tickets,” he said.

“I would also like to thank the Wangaratta community for supporting this great cause.”

Others involved included Mayor Dean Rees, Wangaratta Rotary Club’s David Ward and Keith Snowdon and Big W’s Tracy McCormick.

The $3300 raised eclipsed the team target of $3000 at the beginning of the month and blitzed last year’s total fundraising efforts by more than $1000.

PRIZED VOLUNTEERS: Jo Andrews and Sara Ciancio were in charge of raffle tickets and the coveted prized donated by multiple local businesses.

GREAT MO: Tracy McCormick was in the spirit of Movember as she took part by receiving a trim.

SAUSAGE PLEASE: Keith Snowdon and David Ward enjoy the last moments of their moustaches with helping the sausage sizzle at Big W on Saturday.

330 in crazy dance show Monday, December 2, 2013

By CAITLIN SARTORI

SLICK MOVES: St Patricks grade six students Annabel West, Samuel Berenger and Mia Einersen will perform in Dance Crazy this Wednesday.

PHOTO: Luke Plummer

17 MARCH 2024 EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS 31 JAN

42.2K • 10K • 5K • 2K

Register now

wangarattamarathon.com.au

STUDENTS at St Patricks Primary School have been getting their groove on in preparation for the school’s Dance Crazy performance on Wednesday.

With participation from the whole school, students will dance out eras of music, from the beat going from Africa to America, with the beginning of jazz, rock hip/hop and contemporary also included.

Held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, the concert involving all 330 students was sold

out more than a week before the performance date.

Performing arts teacher, Leonie Brien said it was unprecedented the concert would be sold out, but put it down to moving the venue to the PAC, along with “some very enthusiastic students” encouraging parents and friends to attend.

“I’m passionate about pop music, but a challenge has been remembering the right order of the dance moves,” student Mia Einersen said.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 5

$25,000 RSL grant pool open

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

A $25,000 funding pool is again available to local community groups and organisations, through the Wangaratta RSL SubBranch Community Grants Program, with applications now open.

The program, which has been running since 2019, was developed following the club’s establishment at its new premises in Templeton Street, allowing it to increase its support for the local community.

As a not-for-profit organisation which primarily serves the needs of returned service defence members within Wangaratta and surrounds, the club created the funding program to assist other community-based organisations in delivering benefits to those in need.

It aims to support groups which carry out programs and projects addressing social issues, such as problem gambling, drug and alcohol abuse, and family violence, or which provide facilities for Rural City of Wangaratta residents.

The grant program has previously supported Wangaratta groups including

TIME TO APPLY: Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch treasurer Ron Sneddon (left) and general manager Chris Simsen encourage the community to apply for the community grants program.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling Centre Against Violence, Open Door Neighbourhood House, Wangaratta Bowls and Sports Club, Upper Murray Family Care, Zonta, University of the Third Age, Women’s Health Goulburn North East, and Peak Football.

“Wangaratta RSL SubBranch is proud to assist local organisations which are supporting those in need of help within the Wangaratta community,” Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch treasurer

Ron Sneddon said.

“The funds have helped deliver a range of beneficial programs to those in need.”

Application forms and guidelines are now available by contacting the club’s secretary, Andrew McDonell via email at secretary@ wangarattarsl.org.au, or by phoning the club on 5721 2501 and asking to speak to the sub-branch secretary.

Successful applications will be announced next year.

Boys to the Bush fits out trailer with donated funds

INLAND Rail construction partner McConnell Dowell is doing its bit for the Wangaratta community, sponsoring Boys to the Bush, a local non-for-profit organisation that helps boys become good men.

The team contributed funds to fit out a new trailer for use during regular Boys to the Bush camps and mentoring sessions.

The trailer now features new lights, fridge/freezer, radio, solar blanket, battery, chainsaw and much more, to ensure the group has what they need when heading out bush.

Boys to the Bush program coordinator Matt Dillon said with this fit-out they achieve a level of self-sufficiency for their camps they didn’t have before.

“It enhances our mobility and enables a range of diverse experiences in different settings,” Mr Dillon said.

“It’s not just practical support; it goes a long way to helping us deliver on our mission.”

McConnell Dowell also offers opportunities for Boys to the Bush youths to visit Inland Rail construction sites to gain an understanding of the Inland Rail project and what life in con-

GEARED UP: Simon Dale and Frazer Dale with the Boys to the Bush trailer and new camping products.

JUST VISITING: Boys to the Bush participants visited the Inalnd Rail construction site at Glenrowan last month. struction has to offer.

The team recently welcomed students to Glenrowan to explore the construction of the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge.

Engineers and construction workers explained their

roles and their career experiences.

“Through their sponsorship of Boys to the Bush and initiatives like site visits for local youth, McConnell Dowell is making a meaningful impact,” Mr Dillon said.

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Commonsense for safe crossings and good behaviour HAVE our tolerance levels, particularly as motorists, taken a hit since we endured the pandemic?

Anecdotally we are told more motorists have become less patient when they’re on the roads, and that there has been a rise in bad, ill tempered behaviour leading to more road rage incidents.

Locally at least we don’t appear to have seen any dramatic spike in road rage situations, but that’s not to say our behaviour on the roads couldn’t be improved.

With everyday stresses, and rising cases of anxiety, there is certainly the temptation to react when we’re in a hurry or feel we’ve been ‘wronged’ on the road by another user.

In the lead up to Christmas, with increasingly busy roads, it’s even more important than ever to take a breath and show restraint and civility, reducing situations elevating to potential conflict.

Good, law abiding behaviour applies to everyone using the roads, including pedestrians.

In today’s edition the claims by a wheelchair bound resident that they have been clipped several times by motorists, while using pedestrian crossings in the CBD, are cause for concern.

These crossings within the CBD were installed to provide safe passage and there is a legal requirement for motorists to give way to pedestrians using the crossing.

That said, pedestrians must also be mindful of traffic flows and apply commonsense, avoiding stepping out infront of vehicles already travelling through the crossing with little time to stop.

Tis the season for respectful behaviour by all those on the roads.

The Quiz No. 64 1. Ben Lomond National Park is a popular tourist destination in which Australian state?

2. What is the name of the purple Teletubby?

3. Arthur Calwell was the leader of the Australian Labor Party in which decade of the 20th century?

4. Which Australian country music legend’s real name was David Gordon Kirkpatrick?

5. Majuro is the capital of which island country in the Pacific Ocean?

6. Which team were the premiers of the inaugural Western Australian Football Association season, held in 1885?

7. Who released the 2004 children’s book, Flanimals?

8. Which spirit is mixed with pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream to make a Painkiller cocktail?

9. Who did Deborra-Lee Furness marry in 1996?

10. The dinar is the currency unit of which country starting with J? 11. Which Australian actor played the role of Dr. Carter in the 2014 movie, Edge of Tomorrow?

12. How many zeros follow the digit, 1, in a googol?

13. Austen Tayshus is best known for which 1983 comedy hit single?

14. In the Superman comics, kryptonite is most commonly what colour?

15. Who did Hillary Rodham Clinton replace as the US Secretary of State?

16. What is the name of the nut from an oak tree?

17. The Tigris river empties into which gulf?

18. Which famous cricketing brothers play in the band, Six & Out? 19. Captain Mainwaring was one of the main characters in which classic 1960s-70s TV series?

20. Which former Premier of Western Australia was the member for Willagee from 1996 until 2009?

Answers 1. Tasmania 2. Tinky Winky 3. 1960s 4. Slim Dusty 5. Marshall Islands 6. Rovers Football Club 7. Ricky Gervais 8. Rum 9. Hugh Jackman 10. Jordan 11. Noah Taylor 12. 100 13. Australiana 14.

Green 15. Condoleezza Rice 16. Acorn 17. Persian Gulf 18. Brett Lee, Shane Lee 19. Dad’s Army 20. Alan Carpenter Compiled by Ric Allport – www.brainfoodfactory.com – Challenge your Brain

FACEBOOK users this week commented on Dean Rees being re-elected for a sixth consecutive term as Rural City of Wangaratta mayor, with Cr Harvey Benton elected as deputy, replacing Cr Harry Bussell.

•

Bellini Homer: Some fresh ideas and a different approach would

have been better for the City. Perhaps the Ratepayers should choose who they want as Mayor.

Leslie Matthews: At the end of the day it’s just a symbolic role. The majority of ratepayers don’t vote for Dean Rees at council election time and non of the ratepayers (other than the other councillors) vote for him as

•

Mayor yet he represents the whole of Like the the Rural City of Wangaratta.

Wangaratta Craig McDonald: Congrats, Chronicle Dean Facebook Our The Vine Hotel: Great job, follower page good to see Harvey stepping up to to have your say. total is the plate.

Jessica Conroy: Great decision- well done Dean and Harvey

• • •

14,463

Have your say in Wangaratta Chronicle poll

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

Animal cruelty has no place on the program THIS year’s Summer in the Parks event program displays innovation.

I was pleased to see this long running concept has had a re-gig.

An event getting included in this program is effectively an endorsement by council.

Unfortunately for the first time council has included a rodeo.

The rodeo happening on Saturday at the rode grounds was called “Regfest” and the organisers were gifted $25,000 dollars by our council.

The public has had no say in this decision.

It is not acceptable that council funds events that involve animal cruelty.

The RSPCA along with all leading animal welfare charities are opposed to the staging of rodeos.

“Sentient”, the Veterinary Institute for Animal Ethics, opposes the use of animals in rodeos.

You can find their statement on rodeos at sentient.org.au.

A quote from that website reads: “Such events (rodeos) represent highly physically and psychologically stressful environments to animals, exploiting prey animals’ fear response….Stimulating bucking behaviour, rodeos capitalise on animals’ instinctive counter predatory response and survival reactions which are initiated by fear and/or pain.”

No rodeo should receive council endorsement nor council funding.

Cassandra Pollock, Wangaratta EDITOR’S NOTE: Council said it had contributed approximately $20,000 towards RegFest, to help bring people to Wangaratta.

Do Wangaratta’s Christmas decorations create a festive atmosphere?

SCRUMPTIOUS: Devonshire tea will be available by Wangaratta CWA branch on December 10 at the North Eastern Group of CWA Victoria’s annual Christmas Fair. Pictured are Debbie Brown (left), Marleen Park and Carol Blight doing some quality control testing.

CWA Christmas Fair this Sunday THE North Eastern Group of CWA Victoria Inc will hold their annual fair this Sunday, December 10 in the Wangaratta CWA Hall in Templeton Street from 10am until 1pm.

King Valley, Moyhu, Whorouly, and Barnawartha branches will have Christmas goodies for sale in the hall, and Wangaratta branch will be serving Devonshire tea in the meeting room of the hall.

There will be Christmas cakes, puddings, shortbreads, jams and sauces among the great variety of Christmas goods for sale.

There will also be gingerbread for decoration by children (and mums) on the day.

The CWA wishes to remind those attending they will need to bring cash to purchase their goods from the fair, as there will not be any electronic banking available on the day.

Communities betrayed Ruined Roads Victoria over basin water grab - RRV’s new meaning THE Murray Darling Basin Plan is no longer a plan, it’s a death sentence.

It’s a death sentence that has been delivered by this (federal) government.

The basin’s heart has been broken by a government that has ignored communities.

They haven’t even bothered to visit them.

The (water) minister and the Prime Minister know exactly what they are doing, for base political gain, because they have banded together with the Greens to take more water out of communities that I represent- out of Griffith, Leeton, Deniliquin, Finley, Barham, Moulamein, Balranald and Wentworth.

The regional communities I represent will not forget this.

We will not forget this betrayal.

Sussan Ley, MHR Farrer, deputy leader of the Opposition

IT is clear that the parlous state of Victoria’s roads, and the abysmal road maintenance funding provided by the Allan Labor Government, have transformed Regional Roads Victoria into a whole new department – Ruined Roads Victoria.

I have never seen the roads in such poor repair, they are certainly not car worthy.

That is what concerns me about the state budget: the reductions and the cuts that there have been to road maintenance – not infrastructure but road maintenance.

We have had 250 people die on Victorian roads this year, and we have one month to go.

That is a concern.

We know the road maintenance budget has been cut, and I just urge the government to look a little bit closer and really throw some support behind that maintenance.

To put potholes in perspective, when you put rain and night-time together, and you are riding a motorbike, it is not a lot of fun.

I do not drive at night if I can help it, but sometimes you get stuck in a predicament and you need to be riding at night, and it is really quite unsafe.

Tim McCurdy, MLA for Ovens Valley

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

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 7

Cobbled disabled car parks being replaced

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN RURAL City of Wangaratta council has begun replacing the cobbled surface on the handicapped parking lots on the newly redeveloped Baker Street, after receiving community complaints.

Residents were surprised that the recent rebuild of the road, which was completed in late November, had seen the uneven cobbled surface extended into the disabled parks, making it the surface difficult for some, particularly with strollers and walking frames, to keep their footing.

Annette Filipek told the Wangaratta Chronicle last Tuesday, she was parking at the new look street with her friend in the disabled car park with her walker.

She said she was having enough trouble keeping her footing on the surface, but was concerned for her friend’s balance and saw a potential for a serious fall.

“I thought for people with walking sticks and walkers, it’s hard to stay up on,” she said.

“And for those who are partially blind, how will they know where they are going.”

Council director of com-

QUICK CHANGE: Annette Filipek was thankful to see action on the change of pavement on the disabled parking lots on the recently redeveloped Baker Street.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann munity and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said council officers were aware of the issues surrounding the parking lots are and are looking at alternative pavement treatments to replace the cobble surface.

“We are looking at changing this pavement to something more suitable; this pavement will be installed over the next few weeks,” he said.

On Thursday, works had begun on the disabled park-

ing lot to change the pavement.

Ms Filipek said she was thankful for council’s fast action on the replacement of the pavement and for listening to community concerns.

Baker Street was reopened on November 15 after two months of works which included the reconstruction of Baker Street road pavement, renewal of car parking spaces and minor drainage works.

GOTAFE offer support for 2024 study choices A SERIES of GOTAFE run information sessions aim to help prospective students explore study options with GOTAFE next year.

Some 13 free sessions are being run from this week until Monday, 15 January.

The online sessions will be hosted by trainers and careers advisors who will step participants through what to expect from courses, as well as support available to students who study with GOTAFE.

Careers advisor Narelle Lowe said the sessions offered an ideal way to explore study opportunities.

“Whether you are a school-leaver, looking to upskill or change careers, it is important to have as much information as possible before making decisions,” she said.

“We’re here to support our community each step of the way, and in the information sessions we will explain what that support looks like.”

You can register for the

information sessions at www.gotafe.vic.edu.au.

The sessions will cover a range of topics and study areas, including nursing, hospitality, baking and commercial cookery, agriculture and horticulture, individual support and more.

GUIDING PATHWAYS: GOTAFE careers advisor Narelle Lowe is leading a range of information sessions aimed at supporting prospective students in their study choices for 2024.

State launches $150m fund to accommodate the need of more workers in regional Victoria A $150 million Regional Worker Accommodation Fund hopes to help bolster more affordable housing and accommodation for workers in key industries where staff are in demand like agriculture, hospitality and teaching.

Unveiled by Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney on Friday, building and construction companies are among the wide range of eligible groups that can now apply for grants between $150,000 and $5 million to develop projects that support local businesses by delivering affordable housing and accommodation.

Premier Allan said the government is also delivering an additional $1 billion through the Regional Housing Fund – building more than 1300 new homes with a mix of social and affordable housing, on top of the Big Housing Build, which includes $1.25 billion to build new homes in communities across rural and regional Victoria.

The Tiny Towns Fund encourages local community groups to bring their best project ideas to the table and develop projects that matter to their community.

Grants between $5000 and $50,000 are available to deliver infrastructure projects,

such as new playgrounds – with $20 million available across the state.

The $25 million Regional Council Support Package is also now open, supporting local projects that will bring long-lasting benefits to rural and regional communities – empowering local volunteers, strengthening businesses and communities and promoting Traditional Owner culture, participation and leadership.

An expression of interest process for the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund will run until 25 February.

To find out more visit rdv. vic.gov.au/rwaf.

FREE Quotes & Garden/Driveway Design 7 DAYS a week Dry Hire or with Operator Landscaping scaping

Garden Clearing

Regional road maintenance blitz over next seven months FROM now until June 2024, Regional Roads Victoria crews will deliver major patching works across some of the region’s busiest and most important trade and travel routes, including Great Alpine Road, Glenrowan-Myrtleford Road and Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road.

Works will also be delivered on sections of Myrtleford-Yackandandah Road and Benalla-Tocumwal Road.

They will include road maintenance projects where potholes will be patched, roadside grass will be mowed and signs will be replaced.

The blitz will also seeks to ensure other vital parts of the road network are well-maintained, including strengthening bridges, rebuilding culverts and retaining walls and inspecting and maintaining traffic lights, signs and other structures.

With warmer weather on the way and conditions more suitable for major roadworks, drivers can expect to see hundreds of workers across delivering this important work across the state.

The government reported that over the past 12 months, more than 1800km of the state’s roads were repaired and rebuilt.

It is delivering a $2.8 billion, 10-year investment in road maintenance and renewal works, including flood recovery.

Under this new longterm funding model, more than $770 million will be spent on maintaining the state’s roads as part of this 12-month blitz.

MP for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said last year was one of Victoria’s wettest years on record and it’s caused unprecedented damage to roads right across the state.

“That’s why we’re investing $6.6 billion as part of a 10-year maintenance masterplan for Victoria’s roads,” Ms Symes said.

H IR E

Animal Burial

Pool Fill Ins

1.7T Excavator 2T Excavator 200/300/400/450 Buckets, 1m Mud Bucket, Ripper, Grab, Post Hole Digger 300 Auger 21T Superaxe Wood Splitter Walk-Behind Trencher

CA LL RO B: 04 03 64 3 28 2

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

ACROSS THE ARTS

Free busking in Wangaratta a hit with nomad Drew Blundell

By ANITA MCPHERSON

FRESH from picking up the People’s Choice award at the Australian National Busking Championships in Cooma last weekend, country music singer and instrumentalist Drew Blundell hit the streets of Wangaratta last week to experience busking for the first time in the rural city.

For over 15 years Drew has been busking across the country, but this was his first visit to Wangaratta, and while the weather wasn’t ideal, he received a warm welcome.

Drew said he stopped into Wangaratta to visit friends and noticed the free busking spots marked on the streets, deciding to quickly register and give it a go while he was in town.

“This is probably the best system I’ve ever seen (for busking) in the country,” he said.

“Most of the other places I go to, you have to go to council chambers first, fill out forms and pay for a licence - which is hard sometimes because you can’t always get there in a timely manner.

“Busking is a very spur of the moment-type thing - you might be passing through and have a couple of extra hours, and decide to do a bit.

“It’s a fantastic system here and should be adopted nationwide I think.”

Drew explained he can spend all

HITTING THE SPOT: Drew Blundell entertained shoppers visiting the CBD last week, taking advantage of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s free busking initiative.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke morning waiting in council chambers to pay for a licence, only to have the weather turn bad in the afternoon and spoil your plans.

Here, busking is free, and he only had to scan a QR code on one of the spots, before receiving approval which allows him to play at any of the 12 official busking loca-

tions around town.

Drew said in big cities like Sydney, you have to make a substantial amount of money busking just to cover your costs including paying for a licence, $50 per hour to park your car plus road tolls.

There’s the added dilemma of fewer people now carrying cash -

and while he has invested in a card reader, he’s yet to take it out of the box.

“People are less likely to give (using cards) - that’s what I think anyway,” he said.

“I’ve been lucky I seem to attract a crowd and people who don’t have cash will usually go to the effort to

go and get some and donate, or buy my album, which is good advertising (for my music).”

Drew said he did pretty well outside Big W earlier in the week despite wet weather, and was expecting an even better reception playing in Reid Street a few days later.

Drew, who comes from Bungendore in New South Wales, is a regular at the Tamworth Country Musical Festival and makes a living performing and selling his albums on CD and USB sticks.

Over the last 30 years he says he’s gone from playing to a few people in the street, to performing in front of a crowd of 40,000 at the Gympie Muster.

He’s travelled 130,000 kilometres in the last 12 months, from the Northern Territory to Queensland and down the east coast to Victoria, and next year he has bookings which take him back to the NT, but this time he’ll visit the Kimberley, Perth and return across the Nullarbor to South Australia.

“I see some amazing country - I travel all over Australia and into the outback, playing every day,” he said.

“We have a beautiful country and some of the people I meet and places I get to see are pretty amazing.”

Drew also loves the fact he get to perform with his cousin, Australian country music favourite Owen Blundell, who was the reason Drew became a musician in the first place.

WE ARE HIRING! 1ST YR PLUMBING APPRENTICE

START YOUR CAREER - WITH US! FULL TIME Wangaratta, Victoria

We are currently looking to hire a 1st Year Plumbing Apprentice.

We are after an enthusiastic, punctual, and motivated candidate to join our growing team.

Earn while you learn!

Receive support, mentoring & on the job training!

Work alongside trade-qualified staff while learning a trade.

Gain a nationally recognised qualification.

THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT WILL HAVE: Manual driver's license Willingness to complete the Apprenticeship.

HOW TO APPLY To apply, please BRING your resume into our showroom at 17-19 Muntz Street, Wangaratta.

Applications Close: 5pm Friday, 1st Dec 2023

(03) 5722 9896

www.OBRIENSPLUMBING.com.au

RESIDENT ARTIST: Leon Pappas recently moved to the area, and is now a member of the Benalla Broken River Painters. INSET: One of Leon’s paintings inspired by the local landscape.

Leon Pappas exhibition in Baddaginnie LOCAL artist Leon Pappas will share his work with the public as part of an exhibition being held at the Baddaginnie Hall on Saturday, December 9.

The award-winning artist who has been painting for 55 years has exhibited right across Victoria, but this will be his first exhibition in Baddaginnie, having recently moved into the area.

Leon recently joined the Benalla Broken River Painters and has been helping fellow artists with their artwork.

In this exhibition, Leon will have watercolours, acrylic and oil paintings, including paintings of the local landscape, some which are drawn from the Baddaginnie area.

There will also be wrap-

ping paper and cards printed with Leon’s art work on display.

Fellow painters in the Benalla and Baddaginnie area are also welcome to come along and meet Leon, who will be in attendance all day.

The exhibition will run from 10am to 3pm with entry free and a variety of work for sale (cash only).

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 9

St Bernard’s celebrates 60 years

ST BERNARD’S Primary School celebrated its 60th anniversary on Tuesday, with a shared lunch and day of activities for students.

The school was opened in February, 1963 with an enrolment of just over 30 students.

The Williams Road campus has undergone significant infrastructure upgrades since its early days, and today welcomes 370 students.

Students, staff and families enjoyed gathering to mark the milestone, which will also be recognised with the installation of a mural outside the school’s chapel.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

• Bree and Sadie Vescio.

• Charlie, Emma and Tommy Minchinton.

• Laura and Luna Phillips.

• Archie Primmer, Connor Baft, Hamish McCoy and Aston Hamilton.

• Freyja Berry and Essie White.

• Harvey Watson and Oakley Deveson.

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NHW staff honoured at annual awards evening

THE recent Northeast Health Wangaratta Staff Awards recognised the academic, professional and research endeavours of staff, and thank those who have dedicated many years of service.

The awards were held at the Wangaratta Quality Gateway Hotel on Thursday, November 16.

NHW chief executive officer, Libby Fifis said she was proud of the hospitals workforce.

“The staff awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise their achievements for excellence in practice, research and leadership,” Ms Fifis said.

“We are very grateful to the 100 members of our workforce who have reached significant milestones for their years of service, which includes careers spanning up to 50 years.”

Scholarship recipients • Board Directors’ Scholarship - Jessie Gerrish • Jack Hughes Memorial Palliative Care Scholarship - Jackie Oddie • Jack Hughes Memorial Oncology Scholarship - Natasha Martin • Jo Bevan Memorial Oncology Scholarship - Erin Primmer, Samantha Cooper and Claire Noonan • Community Palliative Care Scholarship - Catherine Dean • Anne Bell Memorial Scholarship - Claire Noonan • Ricky Hiskins Memorial Scholarship - Skye Adamo • Sarah Redman Memorial Midwifery Scholarship - Emma Sullivan • Anna Margaret Suter Memorial Scholarship - purchase of manikin and ShockLink device to aid in Advance Life Support training for staff • Jessica McLennan Memorial Prize in Rural Critical/Emergency Care Gurjit Sangha

Excellence Awards • Quality Improvement and Consumer Experience (Clinical Excellence and Patient Safety) - Kim Comensoli and Lesley Lewis, Susan Christie • Quality Improvement and Consumer Experience (Non-clinical Service Delivery) - Julieann Edwards • Excellence in Support Services - Wayne Thiele and Paul Shanley • Excellence in Customer Service and Kindness - Jennine Lane • Excellence in Corporate Services - Karen Harding • Excellence in Research - Susan Trevillian • Excellence in Allied Health (Science) - Phoebe Capone • Excellence in Allied Health (Therapy) - Kylie Owen and Elizabeth Broughan • Excellence in Aged Care (in memory of Charles Neal) - Angie Jude • Excellence in Community Services - Danielle Vowles • Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery (WB Richardson) - Charlotte Byrne • Excellence in Medical Services - Richard Kjar • Leader of the Future - Megan Gilbert • Excellence in Leadership - Nicole Stribley

10 YEARS SERVICE: (Back, from left) Belinda Dunbar, Megan Brunken, Tina Ross, Tim Davis; (front, from left) Kelly Bell, Mary Murphy, Krishna Sandford, Bree McClen, Michelle Wells.

15 YEARS SERVICE: (Back, from left) Richard Kjar, Leanne Know, Michelle Ormond, Elise Spencer, Russ Eaton; (front, from left) Susanne Briggs, Loretta Montgomery.

Recognition of Years of Service 10 YEARS - Kelly Bell, Kaitlin Bott, Megan Brunken, Elizabeth Carter, Estelle Corrigan, Timothy Davis, Belinda Dunbar, Dr Shannon Elliott, Bridget Fitzpatrick, Jacqueline Foster, Leanne Gray, Jessie Harding, Carol Hollingsworth, Leanne Holmes, Michaela Ivone, Natalie Keaveney, Susan Kennedy, Taylah Malcolm, Bree McClen, Sharron McLaurin, Read Moreland, Mary Murphy, Allyson Naish, Monique Nugent, Xavier O’Kane, Lisa Pasa, Glena Paterson, Isabel Paton, Naomi Piazza, Tina Ross, Krishna Sandford, Kathryn Stratton, Emma Sullivan, Amy Tolley, Kimberley Trujillo, Leonie Voutier, Jessica Waite, Sarah Webster, Michelle Wells, Jessica White, Rebecca Wilson, Marni Wingrave 15 YEARS - Jan Bowers, Susanne Briggs, David Cunningham, Russ Eaton, Susan Ginnivan, Catherine Holt, Erin Hooker, Fiona Kendall, Emily Hourigan, Louise Jones, Mr Richard Kjar, Leanne Knox, Naomi McKenzie, Loretta Montgomery, Yogavelli Naidoo, Kirby Nichols, Philippa Nolan, Janelle O’Keefe, Michelle Ormond, Lisa Pitt, Jannae Ryan, Elise Spence, Kaomi Sunderland, Nicole Warde 20 YEARS - John Blenman, Rebecca Bradshaw, Katrina Colvin, Kate Finnigan, Kasey Flanigan, Jane Foley, Josephina Gallo, Lisa Gephart, Carolyn Hancock, Andrea Hogan, Jason O’Keeffe, Colleen Perry-Van Der Heyden, Ruth Rollins, Crystal Sessions, Debra Smith, Joleen Stewart, Helen Tiffin, Nadia Tilson, Marika Vanstekelenburg, Andrea Voogt, Helen White

20 YEARS SERVICE: (From left) Lisa Gephart, Colleen Perry-Van, Andrea Hogan, Jason O’Keefe, Katrina Colvin, Josephina Gallo, Helen Tiffin.

25 YEARS - Vera Bryers, Andrew Cole, Danielle Cole, Lisa Hernan, Katie Higgs, Karlee Ryan, Irene Salmon, Jodie Sutton, Laurelle Van Leeuwen 30 YEARS - Lucinda Jones, Lidia Panozzo, Dianne Tomaino 35 YEARS - Jennifer Aumann, Rosalie Bennett, Jacquelyn Doensen, Jaan Vihm 40 YEARS - Sharon Cheong, Helen Robinson, Deborah Gregory, Lesley Lewis 45 YEARS - Catherine Larkings, Judith Honybun-Smith 50 YEARS - Ferruccio Tonini. Special recognition for Ferruccio will occur at the NHW Annual General Meeting on 7 December.

30 & 35 YEARS SERVICE: Lucinda Jones (30 years), Jennifer Auman (35 years), Jacquelyn Doensen (35).

40 YEARS SERVICE: Deborah Gregory and Lesley Lewis.

45 YEARS SERVICE: Judith Honybun-Smith.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 11

7KH $QQD 0DUJDUHW 6XWHU 0HPRULDO 6FKRODUVKLS ZLOO HQDEOH SXUFKDVH RI D PDQLNLQ DQG 6KRFN/LQN GHYLFH IRU $GYDQFH /LIH 6XSSRUW WUDLQLQJ IRU VWDII

&RQJUDWXODWLRQV 6WDII $ZDUGV DQG 6FKRODUVKLSV

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Junior Reporter Club

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...

Darcie Jackson ......................................December 4

Keira O’Sullivan ................................... December 10

Sophie Rickard ......................................December 4

Finn Norris ............................................ December 10

Madden Boschetti .................... December 6

Meegan Davey .................................... December 10

This Week’s Winner of a birthday cake from Shelley’s Country Bakehouse is Madden Boschetti To be in the running to win a birthday cake from Shelley’s Country Bakehouse, join the Junior Reporter Club. Phone 5723 0100 or email bsommer@nemedia.com.au with your child’s name, address, DOB and phone number. Your address and phone number will not be printed in the Chronicle but is required to contact you should you win the cake. Birthday Book is for 1 to 14 year olds. All existing Birthday Book participants will remain eligible to win a birthday cake. Please note 48 hours notice required.

6 Reid Street 67a WANGARATTA W

P: 5722 9211 P

Pies, Pasties & Sausage Rolls, Salad Rolls, Breads, Cakes & Pastries, Cold Drinks & Coffee HOURS: H OURS RS: Monday Mo Mond M ond nday y-F Friday rriida day 6 day 6.30am .

- 5.30pm Saturday Sat atur urday day 7 da 7.00am .0 00a 0am - 2.30pm 0am

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 13

wangarattachronicle.com.au

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

F A T E N D A C N A A A O L I O H L L E T S A C S E S M U G V R P A L M

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally.

Some letters are used more than once.

12 What are numbers of persons

arranged in lines (4) 14 Which figure is used in writing, as a reference mark (8) 15 What is a pitcher with a wide spout (4) 17 Name the tube of a gun (6) 18 What is a plan for achieving a desired end (6) 20 To be silent, is to be what (5)

21 Who was told to “get

her gun” (5)

WHICH WORDS

23 Which term is used

after a prayer (4)

1 RIA (a) The unit of currency in Iran (b) The shaft of a feather (c) A drowned river valley 2 SOLACE (a) A temporary residence (b) Comfort in distress (c) The ability of a substance to dissolve

BIYWORD

318

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

Solve the crossword.

Each answer has four letters.

© Puzzles supplied by AUSPAC MEDIA

7

SUDOKU

4

6

3

2

1

DOWN 1 Playlet 2 Campaign worker 3 Hold back 4 Multitude

ACROSS 1 Window frame 5 Toy with a tail 6 Sneaking suspicion 7 Fill-in

5

SOLUTIONS

308

CROSSWORD

QUICK THINK

008 SUDOKU

A E N R A G O R A I P S D M P T E M P T E N R T

WHICH WORDS: 1 (c) A drowned river valley, 2 (b) Comfort in distress

25

BIYWORD

CLUES: Colouring substance (7) Domesticated (5) Finish (3) Major body part (5) Open-cut mine excavation (3) Question types: either/... (3) Sharply inclined (5) Short sleep (3) System of language use (7) Talk too much (5)

*6

G

7 21

Q-P C×U T-G U+C C+P O+G G÷C

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

c20o048

C G O P Q T U

048

QUICK THINK

E-QUATIONS

Stint Tend Toad Veto

Music Olio Palm Smug

Lamp Leer Let’s Loaf

Chat Clad Fate Haul

MINI WORD FIND

capital of which West Indies republic (5) 4 What is the ancient name of Manisa in western Turkey (8) 5 What is the Australian Council of Trade Unions (init) (4) 6 To state as true, is to do what (6) 7 Name a horse not expected to win (6)

ACROSS: 1 Sash, 5 Kite, P 6 Idea, 7 Temp.

P I T DOWN: 1 Skit, 2 Aide, O R * A N © 3 Stem, 4 Heap.

G R A M M A R S T E E P E N D T

DOWN 2 To respond, is to do what (5) 3 Port-au-Prince is the

E-QUATIONS C:7, G:21, O:4, P:10, Q:17, T:25, U:3

host, ... Norton (6) 8 What is one’s progenitor called (8) 9 What is an adage (6) 10 To sicken, is to do what (8) 11 To withdraw one’s labour, is to do what (6) 13 What do we call those who compete in a race (8) 16 Which term describes that which is difficult to understand (8) 19 What are additional things called (6) 22 Which seat has supports for the elbows (8) 24 To cast a spell, is to do what (6) 25 What are units of sound intensity (8) 26 Name the young of a rabbit (6)

G R A H A M A A B E A A N C E S T O R T S L S A Y I N G C T N A U S E A T E R E S T R I K E O S T A R T E R S W I S W A B S T R A C T E A A E X T R A S A N A R M C H A I R R T M I N C A N T I I D E C I B E L S L C N K I T T E N

F A T E N D A C N A A A O L I O H L L E T S A C S E S M U G V R P A L M

ACROSS 1 Name a renowned TV

MINI WORD FIND 308

1008

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

RURAL

Greenham Beef Sustainability Standard launched in Wangaratta beef with robust and transparent sustainability credentials.

The practical program is aligned with the themes identified by industry in the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF): animal welfare, environmental stewardship, people and the community, and economic resilience.

Those in attendance heard

AN enthusiastic crowd gathered at the Wangaratta Turf Club last Monday for the official launch of the Greenham Beef Sustainability Standard (GBSS).

The voluntary on-farm standard was developed in partnership with industry experts, customers, and producers in response to growing market demand for

for several guest speakers at the launch.

MLA beef sustainability manager Jacob Betros spoke about industry progress and new sustainability goals.

Greenham managing director, Peter Greenham; Mick Taylor from Fulton Market Group (McDonald's beef buyer); and NAB’s James Bent-

ley discussed who is asking about our sustainability credentials and what they’re seeking.

GBSS pilot producers, Gavin Furness (Bena), Gary and Linda Nankervis (Towong), and Tom Whinney (Chatsworth) explained how the standard was applied on-farm: the challenges, benefits, and future opportunities.

Experienced agro-ecologist and sustainability consultant, Leanne Sheriff, walked attendees through the simple tools and explainers developed to support producers.

And Greenham livestock supply chain manager, Jess Loughland, talked about the ext steps for the standard and how people can get involved.

Dispersal p sale exceeds expectations p for Yarck vendor,, topping pp g at $2300 $ per p head WANGARATTA STORE SALE, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Vendor Head/Breed COW & CALF MORRIS JR 12 ANGUS MORRIS JR 10 ANGUS MORRIS JR 9 ANGUS CONROY JRM 6 ANGUS HEIFER EUMERALLA 7 ANGUS MORRIS JR 3 ANGUS VINCENT KT & GR 8 ANGUS STONE RUSSELL 4 ANGUS COLLINS G D 13 ANGUS COOK A & L 8 ANGUS STEERS LAWLESS R 9 HEREFORD FLETCHER FARM 15 ANGUS CLEAL SJ & EM 7 ANGUS EUMERALLA ANGUS 1 ANGUS SHANLEY PETER 2 ANGUS BLACKBURN B 10 MIXED COOK A & L 13 ANGUS COLLINS G D 9 ANGUS BLEWETT NJ 16 ANGUS BONNIE BANKS 19 ANGUS MANCINICO 24 MIXED GIBSON JULIA 7 ANGUS FLANIGAN PAST 1 ANGUS COWS GLENWOOD PARK 2 ANGUS GLENWOOD PARK 1 ANGUS

Avg. Wt. C/kg

Agency

590.42 553.5 521.11 587.5

2300 2240 2100 2200

CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER

428.13 406.67 433.75 397.5 318.85 311.25

1030 940 910 900 840 835

CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER AUST WOOL NETWORK CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS ELDERS

545 449.33 435.71 610 460 408.5 361.92 332.22 330.63 306.05 305.42 425 400

1150 1265 1240 1500 1280 1220 1230 1030 1050 1060 1140 1240 1040

NUTRIEN LIVESTOCK AUST WOOL NETWORK NUTRIEN LIVESTOCK CORCORAN PARKER NUTRIEN LIVESTOCK ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS AUST WOOL NETWORK AUST WOOL NETWORK NUTRIEN LIVESTOCK CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER

785 785

1550 1740

CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER

Wangaratta Livestock Exchange - Prime Market Report VENDOR

A FAMILY EVENT: Michael Purcell (centre) had a sucessful day at the Wangaratta December Store Monthly sale with father Laurie (left) and son Brady (right) for the herd dispersal of the Yarck property managed by Michael.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

TUESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2023

HEAD BREED

SEX

AVG. WT. C/KG

AGENCY

8

Cow

759.38

Australian Wool Network

COWS

Hewitt Homes P/LTD

Angus

214

Hewitt Homes P/LTD

12

Angus

Cow

646.25

227.2

Australian Wool Network

Nankervis Lorna

8

Angus

Cow

846.88

224

Corcoran Parker

Simpson AG & JE

3

Angus

Cow

740

212

Corcoran Parker

Mason RE & ME

1

Shorthorn

Cow

690

215

Elders

Tanner B & S

4

Angus

Cow

675

215

Elders

Ritchens Douglas Ian

1

Angus

Cow

775

224

Nutrien Livestock

Lemana Park Rural

11

Angus

Cow

627.73

222

Nutrien Livestock

HEIFERS Voight DH & SON

2

Limousin X

Heifer

655

224

Australian Wool Network

Hewitt Homes P/LTD

3

Angus

Heifer

566.67

228.2

Australian Wool Network

Nankervis Lorna

1

Angus

Heifer

530

222

Corcoran Parker

Heuvels M

1

Red

Heifer

445

230

Corcoran Parker

Rypor

9

Brahman

Heifer

453.33

226.2

Elders

Lemana Park Rural

1

Speckle Park

Heifer

570

224.2

Nutrien Livestock

Burrayang PTY LTD

2

Black Baldy

Heifer

450

235

Nutrien Livestock

Allan LL & BM

12

Black Baldy

Steer

778.75

250.6

Corcoran Parker

Greta Footy Club

4

Angus

Steer

698.75

242

Corcoran Parker

Greta Footy Club

1

Angus

Steer

620

232.2

Corcoran Parker

STEERS

Mullens I J P G & A

3

Limousin X

Steer

600

236.2

Corcoran Parker

Heuvels M

1

Limousin X

Steer

470

266.2

Corcoran Parker

Heuvels M

1

Limousin X

Steer

410

268.2

Corcoran Parker

Anderson DL

2

Speckle Park

Steer

635

242

Elders

Anderson DL

2

Angus

Steer

572.5

236

Elders

Collins G D

3

Angus

Steer

435

238.2

Elders

Burrayang PTY LTD

4

Black Baldy

Steer

451.25

229.2

Nutrien Livestock

Wood A

1

Angus

Bull

1,055.00 217.6

Nutrien Livestock

Diamond A

1

Simmental

Bull

935

220

Corcoran Parker

Diamond A

1

Simmental

Bull

995

220

Corcoran Parker

BULLS

Next Sale: Tuesday 5th December 2023 1.CP 2.Elders 3.Nutrien 4.AWN

Sales end with a bang

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN THE last Wangaratta monthly store sale of 2023 has confirmed a growing trend in the cattle market to close out the year.

Some 850 head were auctioned off at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange on Friday morning, with cow and calves going for an average of $3.56/ kg, heifers at $2.44/kg and steers for $2.81/kg.

Corcoran Parker cattle agent Reiley Murtagh said the market has become a lot livelier and expects the upward trend to continue.

“What it’s mainly driven by is northern rain...it’s their wet season and they’re getting very good summer pastures up there which has pushed them to start buying cattle,” he said.

“Even in our area there probably wasn’t the confidence due to what the market was doing, but everyone still had a good season and now the confidence is back and it’s making everyone eager again to keep buying cattle.”

Feature seller of the sale on Friday was Michael Purcell and his complete herd dispersal of 50x50 Angus cows at six to seven years old and two to

three month old calves with pure Coonemara bloodlines.

Mr Purcell was the farm manager at a 300 acre property in Yarck for 10 years which has been sold by the property owners.

He attended the sale with father Laurie and son Brady, who was representing the dispersal as the agent.

“I’ve worked pretty hard to get them calving early, they’ve always been spring calvers since I started but I’ve worked pretty hard at feeding them well, looking after them,” Mr Purcell said.

“The season has been great; they’ve been pretty comfortable right through the winter.

“These had a value put on them as accurately as we could two months ago and that was about $1000.

“That didn’t really make sense commercially because kill prices were still around that.

“It’s certainly increased with the rain over the last 10 days or so, I think last week it was growing $100 [per head] a day in the cow and calves.”

Mr Purcell said he was hoping for at least $1500 per head on average, or anything above the offer of the incoming Yarck property owners of

$1200 per head, which was turned down.

But he could barely contain his excitement when his first pen went for $2300 per head, as he finished with an average of $2035 for his six pens, more than double their estimated worth two months ago.

“We were way off the money at $1600, Dad and I were looking at each other like ‘are we dreaming?’” he said.

“It’s a massive success; it was well worth the exercise of pre-testing three of our pens on Thursday.”

Wangaratta’s focus now turns to the premier feature sales in the new year, with the Angus weaner and grown steers sale on January 2 and the other breeds weaner and steers sale on January 4.

Mr Murtagh said the usual high numbers of cattle will be presented after a quality local season.

“Our feature sales are looking pretty good, the amount of chitter-chatter we’ve had from northern people on how their season is going to pan out has been a big push for it,” he said.

“It’s looking like we’re going to have a very good year with the prices, which potentially can keep rising.”

wangarattachronicle.com.au

IN PERSON BY PHONE BY EMAIL 37 Rowan Street, classifieds@ 5723 0101 Wangaratta nemedia.com.au 3677

WHEN TO BOOK

Chronicle Classifieds 2pm business day prior to print North East Jobs 3pm Friday

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 15

SELLING BUY A CAR ONLINE

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au Employment: northeastjobs.com.au Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

from only $42

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE PETS & LIVSTOCK MISSING CAT SALEM Male, all black.

Last seen at Warby Street Vets, Monday, November 27.

If found, please contact 0491 379 259.

MARKS Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.

W H E E L E R Earthworks, available for all your household earthwork needs, yard clean ups, stump removals, driveway and more, available weekdays and weekends. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

CLASSIFIEDS

WORK! 5723 0101 F1 Cavoodles DNA Cleared.

1 x black females 1 x black male

$1,500 each Microchip numbers: 900164002196089 900164002196162 Source ID: MB170559 Phone 0408 205 066.

MALE Jack Russell, wanted for mating. Ph 5727 1429.

EMPLOYMENT

WANGARATTA DISTRICT SPECIALIST SCHOOL JOIN OUR ALLIED HEALTH TEAM IN 2024

Classroom teacher – Full time High quality, excellent health package rams. www.vortexws.com.au Goorambat VIC Ph: 0437 684 786

EMPLOYMENT

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free q u o t e p h o n e Tr e v Anderson on 0422 200 761.

EMPLOYMENT

Administration/ Accounts Officer Full or part time opportunity An opportunity has arisen for an administration/accounts officer to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties across our group.

Following recent acquisitions North East Media is seeking additional administration support.

You will also be required to work with the finance team with accounts payable, accounts receivable and general accounting duties.

Key Responsibilities Administration: • Process creditor invoices, and create payments • Debtors’ ledger maintenance, monthly invoicing and chasing aged debtors • Handling of Debtor/Creditor queries and processing account adjustments Skills and Experience • Prior experience in a similar administration position • Experience using accounting programs • High level computer skills, including experience with excel and word • Exceptional attention to detail, and accurate data entry • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • The ability to work in a team-based environment • Proven time management skills and ability to prioritise urgent work If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

We have a large, dedicated team of teachers, education support staff and allied health professionals who ensure we meet the social, emotional and educational requirements of each student. Our students who have intellectual disabilities all access the Victorian Curriculum through individual education plans.

Our values are reflected in our motto: “Together we will: Be learners, be safe, be respectful.”

This is based on the belief that children learn best in a co-operative environment that is happy, challenging and supportive.

Please contact the school on 5721 7424 or via wangaratta.ss@education.vic.gov.au for more information or to organize a tour.

PART-TIME GENERAL PRACTICE RECEPTIONIST Fixed term (Gap Year Student) (Four days a week plus ongoing relieving if available) Previous General Practice experience advantageous but not essential as training will be provided.

Good communication and interpersonal skills essential.

Please forward CV with minimum 3 referees to: admin@wangmed.com.au or Business Manager 34 Green Street Wangaratta, VIC 3677 Applications close: December 8, 2023

Recruitment online job ID 1388625.

Apply by December 12, 2023.

WANGARATTA DISTRICT SPECIALIST SCHOOL JOIN OUR ALLIED HEALTH TEAM IN 2024

Occupational Therapist – Ongoing As part of our team, you will…

Collaborate with teaching staff, and other Allied Health professionals to support our students with intellectual disabilities.

Work with our young people aged 5-18 to ensure they can access the curriculum, meet their individualised goals and transition successfully into the community.

Time fraction negotiable and includes 11 weeks paid school holidays.

Please contact the school on 5721 7424 or via wangaratta.ss@education.vic.gov.au for more information or to organize a tour.

Recruitment online job ID 1387697.

Apply by December 8, 2023.

Applications should be forwarded to: Deirdre Hart Finance and Administration Manager North East Media dhart@nemedia.com.au

Private General Practice requires a

Find the widest range of jobs in the North East at

93 LANDCRUISER R V Troopy (FDY 262), 5 seater, 1 owner, new tyres, 4.5l petrol, TJM roof rack, v.g condition, registered till May 2024, rwc. $14,500 ono.

Ph 0460 582 811.

VW Tiguan AWD, (YVI840), 2L turbo diesel, 2012 reg, regular servicing, new windscreen, excellent condition and economy, $8,000 ono. Contact 0490 780 990 or come and see at Kate St, Glenrowan.

2012 Mazda 6 Sedan, automatic, full-service history, (YNU308) registered with RWC, leather seats, sunroof, new tyres.

Ph 0456 620 656.

2005 Isuzu van (TOV227), 302,000km, manual diesel, reg til Aug 2006 BF X T 2024, serviced regularly F a l c o n W a g o n , by Robinsons Trucks, in (JGWA6Y59939), noisy good condition, $19,000 diff, headlining needs ono. Ph 0439 030 062. repair, fairly recent new discs, pads and bushes, 22,000km, no reg, $1000 ono, Wandilgong.

Ph 0437 069 941.

Classifieds Work!

OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.

Phone:

(03)

5723 0101

Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Personal Notices

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

SCRIBBLERS CAFÉ

TODAY

33o Late shower

29o 30o 31o TUE

WED

THURS

Strong turnouts for La Dolce Vita

DEATH NOTICES

Monday, November 20, 2023

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Page 3

Aquathon fast approaching

ROYAL Flair Piazza tandem Caravan c/w Skydeck and full enclosed annex, many extras included, $58,500 Ph. 0412 039 451, ready for your holiday.

4.6 Fibre Glass boat/ trailer, 70hp Yamaha, very little use, all safety gear, new seats, awning, paint and gel coat, totally refurbished, new transom, GPS, S o u n d e r, $ 1 2 , 6 0 0 .

Ph 0407 161 665.

sold

2007 Quintrex 435 Hornet Trophy, 40hp, Honda 4 stroke motor, electric tilt/start, bait tank/live tank storage, l o w r a n c e s o u n d e r, full lmm bimini, am/ fm radio, 3 seats, life jackets, rod holders, full canvas cover plus motor covers, nav lights, east tow trailer with mesh walkway, boat in very good condition, approx. 46hrs all up, hardly used. $13,990.

Ph 0438 651 620.

$30,000 walk-in-walk-out Ph 0408 205 066 or 0488 311 391 HAY, pasture, 100 large rolls, this seasons, $75 per roll, pick up only from King Valley. Ph 0427 218 583.

SEAGER, Bronwyn.

2/5/1933 - 30/11/2023 Much loved mother, mother-in-law and Gran to Daryl (Scoota), Katrina, Brandon and Liam.

Fallen tree fears A group of King Valley residents hold high concerns about trees or branches over roads

MULTIPLE serious incidents on local roads due to falling trees or limbs has a group of King Valley residents wanting action before somebody gets killed.

The incidents have taken place over a number or years where occupants of the vehicles have been lucky to walk away without

Passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a short illness.

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

physical harm.

Residents, CFA members and local business operators met with Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy last week and he confirmed that he will

raise their concerns with the Minister for Roads and Safety.

Greta West resident Gary Marshall is one of the people wanting council and the Department of Transport to survey several locations and if the trees pose a high enough risk, to cut them down.

He said the trees are

everywhere through the valley, including Boggy Creek Road (council managed road), and Glenrowan-Moyhu Road, and Wangaratta-Whitfield Road (state managed roads) and all the side roads in the vicinity.

The group has photos of “near misses where people should have been

killed” by trees that were on dangerous leans and trees Mr Marshall said “haven’t been touched for 30 years”.

“We’re raising awareness because we know someone is going to get killed,” Mr Marshall said.

“In the holiday season the area gets fairly clogged with traffic and the motorists don’t look past the end of

the bonnet as they’re city drivers - their habits are very dangerous.

“You get motorbikes, about 30 in a row on holidays, and they’re too busy trying to pass trucks on double white lines or blind corners to worry about what might happen with falling trees.”

■ Continued page 3

TOUCH FREE LASER WASH & TURBO VAC

DOg WASH

Reunited with John and Yvonne.

Will be greatly missed.

OPEN

24/7

EN NOw Op

51-59 Appin St, Wangaratta

1300 521 138

GET UR SHINE ON!

FUNERAL NOTICES

WINE bottle storage crates, solid pine, excellent condition, 28 available, $165 each including GST, or take the lot for $4620, pick up only from Cheshunt.

Phone 0412 710 751.

As per Arie’s wishes, a private funeral will take place.

Credit Card &Eftpos facilities

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

VERWEY

Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

Local News.

Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow.

John & Christine Haddrick

5722 2525

All Hours

northeastfunerals.com.au

5723 0101

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021 wangarattachronicle.com.au

Charge up your engines  INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

A funeral experience... not just a funeral service

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

Wangaratta students compare admirably

after a year like no other

Wang Repair Café returns

 HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm.

The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation.

Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

 FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.

A

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

their university offers yesterday.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

Teens look to the future with uni

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday.

The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities.

Kayla, 17, has been offered a

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra.

“I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said.

“It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve.

“But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.”

Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.

“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said.

“Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

offers

“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now.

“Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm.

A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor.

For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

LL W

O

N

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

CA

Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need.

Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.

Funerals

2021 - Page 5

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College

BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+.

3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice.

40+. figure.

Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria were Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Secondary of scores Across the region Goul- median they performed reasonably terparts 40+, Mount Scopus of 30 with 6pc of College had across the state. a median of 28, Memorial College burn Valley Grammar School scores well judging by the VCE study was next 40+.

Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved Clarendon College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

 REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.

Mason Park

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Country stacks up in VCE

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition.

New members are always welcome.

For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305.

Motoring

Live at home for longer

For more information visit CORONAV IRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian

Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer.

aGardening and home cleaning aHome nursing services aCaring local staff aTransport for medical appointments a Personal care

Government, Melbourne

1800 242 696 or visit care.lchs.com.au

Latrobe Service

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

SOLD

$42 Conditions apply.

Phone: 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

CreditCard& Eftposfacilities Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

5723 0101

Sport

WODONGA’s Terry Newey was one of an estimated 170 traders who showcased their wares at Sunday’s Wangaratta Lions Swap Meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. His collection of vintage Tonka trucks spanned two rows of tables, and garnered widespread interest from both young and old.

■ Story page 2.

PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm

Get

Advertise your car, boat, caravan, bike or trailer across all North East Media newspapers for

RUB outlasts Magpies

PRIDE AND JOY ON SHOW

FOR SALE 66 Reid Street, Wangaratta

Page 5

$1.80 INC. GST

Phone (03) 5723 0100

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.

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.

Subscribe now at

wangarattachronicle.com.au/subscriptions

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 17

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

SCOREBOARD: Saturday, December 2

A GRADE CITY COLTS DEF WANGARATTA MAGPIES WANGARATTA MAGOIES 1ST INNINGS Cooper Matheson lbw: Jed Marek...................................40 Jack Davies (c) c&b: Matthew Lister ................................33 Fraser Ellis c&b: Matthew Lister .......................................15 Nic Bonwick b: Tyler Nanson .............................................0 Callum Honey lbw: Tyler Nanson ......................................0 Frazer Dent c: William Petersen b: Matthew Lister ..........0 Zac Guilfoyle c: ? b: Jessie Smith .......................................7 Charlie Stafford c: Jessie Smith b: Matthew Lister ..........0 Matt Gathercole b: Jessie Smith ........................................0 Matthew Prestianni not out.............................................. 0* Thomas Clayton run out.....................................................0 Extras ...................................................................................10 Total............................................................................10 / 105 Overs ................................................................................35.3 FOW: 1-78 Cooper Matheson, 2-80 Jack Davies, 3-81 Nic Bonwick, 4-83 Callum Honey, 5-93 Frazer Dent, 6-104 Fraser Ellis, 7-104 Zac Guilfoyle, 8-104 Matt Gathercole, 9-105 Charlie Stafford, 10-105 Thomas Clayton.

Bowling: Josh Nanson 5/0/22/0, Tyler Nanson 6/2/18/2, Kent Braden 8/1/16/0, Archie Crispin 2/0/13/0, Jed Marek 4/0/16/1, Matthew Lister 7.3/2/15/4, Jessie Smith 3/1/4/2.

WANGARATTA MAGPIES 1ST INNINGS Mitchell Giggins (c) b: Charlie Stafford ............................29 Tyler Nanson c: ? b: Thomas Clayton ..............................10 Ben Feldtmann b: Matthew Prestianni .............................0 Josh Nanson c: Frazer Dent b: Zac Guilfoyle ..................19 Kent Braden not out........................................................28* Jessie Smith not out........................................................39* Archie Crispin .................................................................DNB Matthew Lister ...............................................................DNB Miles Lovett.....................................................................DNB Jed Marek ......................................................................DNB William Petersen ...........................................................DNB Extras ...................................................................................13 Total..............................................................................4 / 138 Overs ...................................................................................40 FOW: 1-29 Tyler Nanson, 2-30 Ben Feldtmann, 3-54 Mitchell Giggins, 4-75 Josh Nanson.

Bowling: Matt Gathercole 7/5/5/0, Thomas Clayton 7/2/30/1, Matthew Prestianni 8/1/29/1, Charlie Stafford 5/1/27/1, Zac Guilfoyle 8/1/21/1, Frazer Dent 5/2/21/0.

OVENS VALLEY UNITED DEF BY ROVERS UNITED BRUCK ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 1ST INNINGS Luke Whitten c: Samuel Piazza b: Mikka Paulsen............1 Josh Ansell c: Cooper Thomason b: Samuel Piazza .......7 Josh O’Donohue c: James Neary b: Gurjot Gosal .........37 Jacob Beattie c: James Neary b: Samuel Piazza .............0 Paddy McNamara (c) lbw: Cooper Thomason.................2 Jacob Schonafinger c: Cooper Thomason b: Gurjot Gosal....................................................................................17 Matthew Whitten b: James Neary .....................................0 Reid McNamara b: Mikka Paulsen ...................................20 Jonathan Hyde b: Cooper Thomason ............................19 Connor Dennis lbw: Cooper Thomason ...........................3 Ryan Parsons not out ........................................................ 2* Extras ...................................................................................23 Total............................................................................10 / 131 Overs ...................................................................................59 FOW: 1-4 Luke Whitten, 2-39 Josh Ansell, 3-39 Jacob Beattie, 4-54 Paddy McNamara, 5-68 Josh O’Donohue, 6-73 Matthew Whitten, 7-83 Jacob Schonafinger, 8-117 Reid McNamara, 9-124 Connor Dennis, 10-131 Jonathan Hyde.

Cooper Thomason 12/2/35/3, Mikka Paulsen 12/4/15/2, Samuel Piazza 5/0/24/2, James Neary 9/3/10/1, Gurjot Gosal 14/6/17/2, Conner Forde 3/0/11/0, Seamus Phillips 4/0/10/0.

OVENS VALLEY UNITED 1ST INNINGS Seamus Phillips lbw: Josh Ansell ......................................2 Dylan Bursill (c) c: Matthew Winter b: Josh Ansell...........4 Nicholas Impink b: Jacob Schonafinger...........................3 Tyler Thomason c: Connor Dennis b: Josh Ansell ...........6 Kane Fitzpatrick lbw: Josh Ansell ....................................14 Gurjot Gosal c: Connor Dennis b: Jacob Schonafinger...6 Cooper Thomason c: Luke Whitten b: Jacob Schonafinger ......................................................................19 Thomas Chettleburgh b: Paddy McNamara ....................1 Samuel Piazza not out ...................................................... 6* James Neary c: Connor Dennis b: Paddy McNamara .....4 Mikka Paulsen c: Ryan Parsons b: Josh Ansell .................0 Extras ...................................................................................12 Total..............................................................................10 / 77

SOFT TOUCH: City Colts’ Tyler Martin plays a cut shot.

Overs ................................................................................44.4 FOW: 1-4 Dylan Bursill, 2-7 Seamus Phillips, 3-15 Tyler Thomason, 4-27 Nicholas Impink, 5-33 Gurjot Gosal, 6-48 Kane Fitzpatrick, 7-65 Cooper Thomason, 8-67 Thomas Chettleburgh, 9-71 James Neary, 10-77 Mikka Paulsen.

Bowling: Paddy McNamara (c) 12/7/12/2, Josh Ansell 14.4/6/24/5, Jacob Schonafinger 13/5/27/3, Matthew Winter 5/3/3/0.

YARRAWONGA MULWALA DEF DELATITE DELATITE 1ST INNINGS Nick Scales b: James Irvine ................................................0 Trent Berry c: Reid Clarke b: Angus Heslin .......................2 Gregor Fraser c: Brock McCabe b: Angus Heslin ............17 Alec Ritchie lbw: Matt Knight ...........................................34 Nicholas Bogar c: Jobe Fraser b: Matt Knight ..................2 Lachlan Scales c: Matt McCabe b: Angus McMillan .......21 Mark O’Loughlan c: Ben McDonald b: Van Kreeck ........10 Conor Reeves c: Ben McDonald b: Angus McMillan ......15 Mitchell Purcell c: Matt McCabe b: James Irvine ...........11 Archie Storer not out ......................................................... 0* Joe Kelleher c: Reid Clarke b: Angus McMillan ................0 Extras .....................................................................................6 Total............................................................................10 / 118 Overs ................................................................................70.5 Bowling: James Irvine (vc) 9/3/11/2, Angus Heslin 10/5/20/2, Brock McCabe 14/4/24/0, Angus McMillan (c) 15.5/7/21/3, Matt McCabe 5/2/8/0, Matt Knight 8/4/9/2, Ben McDonald 4/1/6/0, Van Kreeck 5/1/16/1.

YARRAWONGA MULWALA 1ST INNINGS Reid Clarke not out ..........................................................65* Matt McCabe c: Peter Scales b: Lachlan Scales .............12 Jobe Fraser not out .........................................................52* Adam Dodd ....................................................................DNB Angus Heslin ..................................................................DNB Angus McMillan (c) ........................................................DNB Ben McDonald ...............................................................DNB Brock McCabe ...............................................................DNB James Irvine (vc) ...........................................................DNB Matt Knight ....................................................................DNB Van Kreeck .....................................................................DNB Extras .....................................................................................5 Total..............................................................................1 / 134 Overs ...................................................................................53 Bowling: Joe Kelleher 4/1/10/0, Lachlan Scales 14/5/27/1, Nicholas Bogar 7/0/18/0, Gregor Fraser 7/0/27/0, Peter Scales 6/1/14/0, Mitchell Purcell 3/2/4/0, Archie Storer 9/1/19/0, Alec Ritchie 3/0/10/0.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

BENALLA BUSHRANGERS DEF BY BEECHWORTH WANDERERS

United 10/90 Noah White 17 James Campbell 3/26.

Rutherglen United 9/103 def by Benalla Bushrangers 9/104 Greg Hoysted 22.

BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS Clancy Ellett c: Gary Priest b: Ross Cavill ........................73 Kayde Surrey c&b: Sameera Witharana .........................32 Brenton Surrey (c) c: Lucas Ham b: Ross Cavill..............56 Gareth Taylor c: Conor Brodie b: Ross Cavill ....................8 Lewis Richards run out: Ross Cavill, Gary Priest............14 Richard Worcester not out................................................ 8* Will Prebble not out........................................................... 0* Timothy Cogger ............................................................DNB Fill-in ...............................................................................DNB Fill-in ...............................................................................DNB Ryan Pollock ..................................................................DNB Extras .....................................................................................6 Total..............................................................................5 / 197 Overs ...................................................................................40 FOW: 1-85 Kayde Surrey, 2-137 Clancy Ellett, 3-167 Gareth Taylor, 4-176 Brenton Surrey, 5-197 Lewis Richards Bowling: Conor Brodie 8/1/30/0, Charlie Bull 3/0/32/0, Priyank Chohan 8/0/28/0, Sameera Witharana 8/2/23/1, Daniel Brew 6/0/38/0, Ross Cavill 7/1/41/3.

B GRADE

BENALLA BUSHRANGERS 1ST INNINGS Michael Honman c: Lewis Richards b: Clancy Ellett......29 Priyank Chohan c: Kayde Surrey b: Richard Worcester 18 James Carboon c: Lewis Richards b: Timothy Cogger ...5 Daniel Brew c: Lewis Richards b: Fill-in...........................10 Charlie Bull b: Brenton Surrey ...........................................7 Ross Cavill not out ...........................................................64* Lucas Ham b: Brenton Surrey ..........................................20 Susanka Gamage c: Brenton Surrey b: Richard Worcester ..............................................................................................18 Conor Brodie not out ........................................................ 2* Gary Priest (c) ................................................................DNB Sameera Witharana ......................................................DNB Extras ...................................................................................22 Total .............................................................................7 / 195 Overs ...................................................................................40 FOW: 1-37 Priyank Chohan, 2-45 James Carboon, 3-66 Daniel Brew, 4-79 Michael Honman, 5-101 Charlie Bull, 6-145 Lucas Ham, 7-176 Susanka Gamage Bowling: Gareth Taylor 8/0/50/0, Richard Worcester 8 0/35/2, Timothy Cogger 3/0/13/1, Fill-in 3/0/13/1, Will Prebble 2/0/20/0, Clancy Ellett 8/0/31/1, Brenton Surrey 8/0/25/2.

A RESERVE

Wangaratta Magpies 7/198 Brandon Fitzpatrick 80 Corey Peterson 2/14 def City Colts 9/72 James Long 21 Jordan Rufford-Sharpe 3/10. Rovers United Bruck 10/119 Blake Nixon 24 Marcello Vescio 5/18 def Ovens Valley

Delatite vs Beechworth Wanderers abandoned. Benalla Bushrangers 6/155 Craig Williams 42 Tyrn Docking 3/38 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 4/122 Jack Kennedy 44* Stewart Mcleod 2/31. Milawa 6/149 David Radeski 27 * Fill-in 2/23 def Rutherglen United 7/58 Stephen Jennings 24 Aden Graham 4/10. Ovens Valley United 7/169 Travis Applegarth 60 Rohan Berriman 4/21 def Merton 9/126 Daryl King 29* Archie Mapson 5/11.

Wangaratta Magpies 9/107 Anand Kanaskar 29* Tony Ormond 2/22 def by City Colts 5/142 Connor Ormond 41* Andrew Dean 2/21. Greta 7/160 Jack Scholes 79 def Rovers United Bruck 6/112 Troy Simpson 2/21.

C GRADE

Beechworth Wanderers 10/103 Kane Niklaus 27 Christian Ashworth 2/16 def by Greta 8/141 Thomas Grounds 39 Kane Niklaus 2/25. Benalla Bushrangers 7/141 Mitchell Cooney 42* Aiden Blyth 3/30 def Gapsted 9/108 John Stirling 34 Chris Lindsay 4/28. Strathbogie Panthers vs Yarrawonga Mulwala unavaliable.

UNDER 16

Rutherglen United 6/87 def by Rovers United Bruck 3/104. Benalla Bushrangers 8/79 def by City Colts 1/92. Delatite 8/60 def by Beechworth Wanderers 5/83.

Greta/OVU vs Yarrawonga Mulwala unavailable.

Under 14 Greta vs Benalla Bushrangers abandoned, Beechworth Wanderers vs City Colts abandoned. Rovers United Bruck Gold 3/75 def Delatite 5/51. Wangaratta Magpies 7/94 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 5/39.

Under 12 Gold Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 7/124 def by Bena;;a Bushrangers 5/125. Yarrawonga Mulwala Bulls 2/182 def Rovers United Bruck Blue 8/89. City Colts White 7/19 def by Benalla Bushrangers Green 2/111. Benalla Bushrangers Blue 2/104 def Rovers United Bruck Yellow 8/29.

Under 12 Blue Greta 8/24 def by Ovens Valley United Orange 3/65.

Ovens Valley United Black 8/63 def Wangaratta Magpies Black 7/53. Wangaratta Magpies White 6/76 def Beechworth Wanderers 4/108. City Colts Blue 2/70 def by Rutherglen United 8/114.

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

MATCH REVIEWS: Saturday, December 2

RUB’s bowlers rip through Tigers

By WILLSON MACK ROVERS United Bruck’s bowling unit claimed another victim as they downed Ovens Valley United in the WDCA A grade match at RC McNamara Reserve in Myrtleford on Saturday.

The Hawks started the day at 9/124 and added another seven runs before setting the Tigers 132 for victory.

Ovens Valley United never looked much of a chance as they slumped to 5/33 with RUB seamer Josh Ansell causing plenty of headaches on his way to claiming 5/24 from 14.4 overs.

Ovens Valley’s Cooper Thomason provided some resistance with a patient 19 from 43 balls but that wasn’t enough as his side was bowled out for 77.

Along with Ansell, Schonafinger’s 3/27, and skipper Paddy McNamara’s 2/12 saw the Hawks home.

In other A grade WDCA matches on the weekend, Yarrawonga Mulwala made light work of Delatite at Stan Hargreaves Oval.

The Lakers sent Delatite in to bat last weekend and bowled them out for 118 before putting on a clinical batting display on day two, making 1/134 from 53 overs.

Reid Clarke (65 not out) and young gun Jobe Fraser (52 not out) couldn’t be dismissed by the Delatite bowling unit.

Meanwhile, Beechworth Wanderers claimed a tight win over Benalla Bushrangers at Benalla Gardens Oval.

The Wanderers set Benalla 198 for victory after Clancy Ellett (73) and Brenton Surrey (56) whacked the Bushrangers’ attack around.

Benalla got off to a bit of a shaky start and at 5/101 the game was firmly in Beechworth’s hands.

However, 64 not out from Ross Cavill got the Bushrangers well and truly back in the game but they would fall just two runs short in an intense final over.

CLINCIAL: RUB celebrate a wicket.

GOOD TAKE: Connor Dennis took three catches behind the stumps.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Leader: Paddy McNamara leads from the front.

GOOD ARM: Josh O’Donohue mops up in the field.

Magpies’ batters collapse as City Colts train rolls on ■ From back page

HUGE WIN: Matt Lister took 4/15 to steer City Colts to victory over Wangaratta Magpies.

PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

BACK FOOT PUNCH: Zac Guilfoyle rocks onto the back foot.

LINE AND LENGTH: Thomas Clayton sends one down.

SHOT: Mitch Giggins plays a pull shot.

“And then we had Matt Lister and Kent (Braden) also bowling well.

“We weren’t bowling great early on but we managed to turn it around.”

City Colts were outstanding with the bat notching 4/138 from their 40 overs with Jessie Smith (39 not out), Giggins (29) and Braden (28 not out) steering the ship.

“After knocking them over for 105 we just said we wanted to bat 40 overs because if we did that we’d chase the total down,” Giggins said. “’Gathers’ (Matt Gathercole) was bowling well for them but luckily we managed to score off the other bowlers so we could leave him alone a bit.

“Tyler and I got us going a bit up the top, Ben (Feldtmann) copped a good ball and then Josh (Nanson), Kent (Braden) and Jessie (Smith) just kept ticking them over.

“We’ve been striving for our top order to make 20 or 30 each and then for one to go on with it a bit and we managed to do that pretty well.

“Jessie was the one who went on with it a bit and he batted really well.”

The win takes the Colts to the top of the ladder in outstanding scenes after finishing towards the bottom last season.

“We won a few early on and had our tails wagging but now we’re winning some big games and showing everyone what we can do,” Giggins said.

“We’re excited because we still feel that we haven’t played our best cricket yet and there are plenty of things we can tidy up and be better at.

“It’s great that we’re winning, we’ve got plenty of confidence which is huge for a young group and everyone’s up and about.”

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023 - Page 19

SPORT

Hoppers look toward future footy leaders

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

IT will be up to the next generation of Moyhu leaders to steer the ship through 2024 following several senior footballers departing the club.

The Hoppers are one of the upand-coming sides in the Ovens and King league, having shot up the ladder from wooden spooners in 2022 to making finals last season under coach Darren Bell.

However, the youthful squad will lack some senior heads, following the departure of players like Charlie West (captain), Brady Bartlett (vice captain), and Jared Lea. “I lost a couple of boys, and there are a couple that still don’t know what they’re doing, we’re still chatting - I’ve lost virtually all of my leaders from last year,” Bell said.

“A lot of my boys got headhunted a bit over the last couple of months which is a bit disappointing.

“We’ve got a couple of boys, their eyes lit up when they realised a couple were leaving, they knew the spot they were fighting for might be there for them now.

“Some young boys like Liam Cook, Nick Stewart, Matt Thrum, Jett Roberts have all really stood up, they’re happy to take on some leadership.

“When word got out we were losing a couple, they rallied

TIME TO STEP UP: Moyhu will need the next generation of leaders, like Jett Roberts (pictured) to lead the squad in 2024.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling around me to see if I was alright, which was great, I was really touched.”

The Hoppers’ ranks will be bolstered by a number of signings fresh out of the junior league, with Bell eager to form meaningful pathways from the juniors to open age football.

“We’ve got another bunch of 18 year olds coming along from the junior league which is good,” he said.

“The league’s getting that vibe of getting the kids out now, which is good, and they

feel a bit more comfortable.

“It’s really exciting, a few from all different clubs in the junior league, so I think the word’s getting out there, which is good.

“I just hope it proves to everyone there are kids out there in the area, have a bit of faith in them and give them a go.

“It’ll only be better for the league in the next few years if they stick around.”

Moyhu’s pre-Christmas block of training will run for another few weeks, with Bell confident the same fervour and intensity

shown already will still be there come January.

“It’s been good, we’re three weeks into it already, we’ve had 50-55 different faces down there so far, so can’t complain,” he said.

“We’ll go another few weeks, we’ve got a Christmas do on December 18, so we’ll go until then, give them a month off, and then we’ll get our teeth into it again and see if they’re as keen as they are now.

“It’s been good fun so far, everyone’s enjoying it, just hope they come back when it hits 40 degrees.”

A STRONG CLUB: The Wangaratta Rangers are looking to fill a number of volunteer roles ahead of their 2024 winter season.

Rangers looking to lock in vital roles

By NATHAN DE VRIES WANGARATTA’S only baseball club is on the lookout for dedicated volunteers to help their 2024 North Eastern Baseball Association season run smoothly.

The powerhouse Wangaratta Rangers are seeking expressions of interest from within and without for coaches, managers and assistants for their six senior and junior teams.

Vice president Owen Godenzi said they were putting the word out to see who was interested in helping out.

“We’re just trying to shake it up and get everyone thinking

about what they’re going to do next season,” he said.

“A few of the kids are moving around age groups next year so the current coaches are probably going to step away, so we’re just getting it out there early, try and drum up some interest.

“There probably isn’t a closing date as such, anyone that’s willing to put their hand up for one of those roles, we want to know now so we can start planning for who we’re going to approach.

“We had success last year – we had three of our four senior teams make finals, we had one premiership in the B grade, and our under 15s made it to the

grand final, going down in the last innings.

“There’s been some success, but we want to go one step further.”

Despite being one of the “minority sports” in the area, the Rangers are incredibly well supported, boasting great facilities and growing numbers.

“We’re a minority sport, we don’t get the exposure as the bigger comps – there are obviously more people who participate in football, netball, cricket and the like, but baseball is starting to get there,” Godenzi said.

“Numbers are growing, it’s a growing sport, with kids and juniors especially.

“We’ve probably had the most junior participation out of the entire league this year which was really good to see, and we can probably see that trend continuing.

“We’ve probably got one of the better facilities in the North East - nowhere else has got four baseball diamonds in one spot, nowhere else in regional Victoria.”

The club will gauge interest in the positions available before their first event of 2024, a comeand-try day for ages six and up, set to take place in February.

For more information, visit the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club on Facebook.

Fixture released for 2024 O&M season CLUBS, players and supporters have been shown what the 2024 Ovens and Murray Football Netball League season will look like, with the league revealing the full fixture on Friday.

The 2024 season will commence on Friday, March 29 as part of a three day Easter weekend opening round, which sees the Wangaratta derby contested under lights at Norm Minns Oval on Good Friday.

The Magpies will also play a night game in round three against Wodonga, while the Rovers play their first home game in round two against a revived Corowa Rutherglen.

The GVL will host this year’s interleague clash on May 25, Indigenous Round is set for round 12 on July 6, while the grand final is set for September 22 at Lavington Sports Ground.

The Hall of Fame function returns to a midweek event on Wednesday, July 24.

As part of the Hall of Fame celebrations, a ‘Showdown’ match (taken from Rd 16) will be fixtured between North Albury and Lavington on Saturday, July 27.

League chairman David Sinclair said the return of Corowa Rutherglen helped the fixture return to something more familiar.

“As with most seasons, the fixture is one of the most challenging tasks for the O&M board,” he said.

“Despite achieving parity with all clubs fixtured to play each other twice and receive nine home games each, the effort required to assist clubs in maximizing their gate returns is a considerable task.

“We are very excited to welcome Corowa Rutherglen back into the draw in 2024, as it was shown that a nine-club fixture proved difficult for clubs to navigate at stages of the 2023 season.

“With multiple breaks required to capture Easter weekend, along with giving all local leagues their traditional grand final slots, we are pleased to return to a ten-club competition to provide O&M supporters a more familiar looking fixture in 2024.”

2024 OVENS AND MURRAY FNL SEASON Round 1 Easter Weekend Wangaratta vs Wangaratta Rovers - Friday, March 29 (6pm).

Round 2 Wangaratta Rovers vs Corowa R’glen, North Albury vs Wangaratta - April 6.

Round 3 Raiders vs Wangaratta Rovers, Wangaratta vs Wodonga (6pm) - April 13.

Round 4 Yarrawonga vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs Albury - April 20.

Round 5 - ANZAC split round Wangaratta vs Myrtleford (April 27), Lavington vs Wangaratta Rovers (May 4).

Round 6 Wangaratta vs Lavington, North Albury vs Wangaratta Rovers - May 11.

Round 7 Corowa Rutherglen vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs Wodonga - May 18.

Interleague Bye - May 25.

Round 8 Albury vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs Myrtleford - June 1.

Round 9 - King’s Birthday Weekend Wangaratta vs Raiders, Yarrawonga vs Wangaratta Rovers - June 8.

Round 10 - split round Wangaratta Rovers vs Wangaratta - June 23.

Round 11 Corowa R’glen vs Wangaratta Rovers, Wangaratta vs North Albury - June 29.

Round 12 - Indigenous Round Wangaratta Rovers vs Raiders, Wodonga vs Wangaratta - July 6.

Round 13 Wangaratta vs Yarrawonga, Albury vs Wangaratta Rovers - July 13.

Round 14 Myrtleford vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs Lavington - July 20.

Round 15 Lavington vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs North Albury - August 3.

Round 16 Wangaratta vs Corowa Rutherglen, Wodonga vs Wangaratta Rovers - August 10.

Round 17 Wangaratta vs Albury, Myrtleford vs Wangaratta Rovers - August 17.

Round 18 Raiders vs Wangaratta, Wangaratta Rovers vs Yarrawonga - August 24.

FINALS: Qualifying Final - August 31; Elimination Final - September 1; Second Semi-Final September 7; First Semi-Final - September 8; Preliminary Final - September 15; Grand Final September 22.

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, December 4, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Moyhu turn to future leaders

Page 19

HAWKS SALUTE ROVERS United Bruck’s Jacob Schonafinger took three wickets in his side’s win over Ovens Valley United on Saturday.

Story: Page 18 PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Colts force collapse City Colts take 10/27 on the way to statement making victory over Wangaratta Magpies

THE Cit City C Colts lt A grade d cricketers’ train is rolling on after a statement making win over Wangaratta Magpies at the Barr Reserve on Saturday.

After last weekend’s weather ruined any chance of the game starting, the clash was changed to a one day match.

In one of the most bizarre

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

innings you’ll see, the Magpies lost 10/27 after they were cruising at 0/78 to be rolled for just 105 with City Colts chasing the total with six wickets in hand.

Unbelievably there were U b li bl th six Magpies batters who failed to register a run before being dismissed.

City Colts skipper Mitch Giggins said it was one of the strangest innings he’d seen.

“We couldn’t buy a wicket, Cooper Matheson and Jack Davies were flying so we started throwing the ball

around bit,”” Gi Giggins d a bit i said. id “After we got Cooper out they started dropping like flies and we just rolled on.

“It was definitely one of the more bizarre innings I’ve seen but it was a super effort by our bowlers.”

The Magpies won the toss and elected to bat and that looked like the right decision as they flew to 73 for

BUY

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED A1 Tyrepower will provide you with PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND ADVICE ON ALL YOUR TYRE NEEDS!

Ph: 5721 8488

none as C Cooper M Matheson th (40) and Jack Davies (33) set the tone.

However, Matheson’s wicket, where he was trapped in front, was the start of a ridiculous roll for City Colts as they claimed a whopping 9/27 to skittle the Magpies for just 105.

City Colts off-spinner Matthew Lister couldn’t be

keptt out, k t taking t ki 4/15 from f 7.3 overs, while Tyler Nanson 2/18 and Jessie Smith 2/4 also chipped in.

“Tyler (Nanson) got taken to the cleaners early on so we brought him back on from the other end and he started bowling good line and length and built pressure,” Giggins said.

■ Continued page 18

GET 1

3 FREE

*Terms & conditions apply. 1st - 31st December 2023

A1 Tyrepower Wangaratta Cnr Roy & Norton Streets, Wangaratta