BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA and surrounds will likely avoid any major ooding until at least the weekend despite heavy downpours of rain throughout Tuesday morning.
The 37.7mm of rain recorded at Wangaratta Airport’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) recording station from 2am Tuesday compounded the city’s wettest November week in 70 years to end spring.
TAMINICK cherry grower
Andrew Smith of Smith’s Fruit has sold a 5kg box of cherries for a record $165,000 at the annual Sydney Markets charity auction, with all proceeds going to Little Wings. Ever since 1980, boxes of cherries from around Australia have been judged and the winning box is auctioned o to di erent charities.
Mr Smith found out his box was judged the best and he ew
A minor flood watch warning was issued Monday afternoon by the BOM and emergency services for the Ovens River and King River catchments, but was cancelled on Tuesday afternoon.
STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
up to Sydney to attend a Sydney Market Foundation Cherry Ball on Saturday.
“The total raised on the box was $165,000 so it was an absolutely amazing number,” he said.
“We had to put forward what we considered to be a good box of
cherries and it was judged the best premium box for the season.”
The winning bid of $60,000 was from Talal and Joanne Khanafer from Trims Fresh Merrylands, with additional pledges totaling $105,000; including $25,000 from Sydney Markets Limited on behalf of its shareholders, $20,000 from Sydney Markets Credit Services, and a further $60,000 from a consortium of Sydney Markets businesses and individuals.
Little Wings provides free, safe and professional air and ground transport for seriously ill children across regional and rural towns in NSW, the ACT and QLD.
The annual cherry auction has raised about $2 million since its inception in 1980.
“It’s a fantastic initiative for Sydney Markets to do this and it’s a great thing to put the cherry industry on the map,” Mr Smith said.
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Wangaratta SES Unit controller Jess Zuber said crews responded to a number of ooding and building damage callouts across the rural city during Tuesday’s consistent downpours.
“We’re going to keep an eye on it, we know we’ve got some more rain coming this weekend that could impact our river systems,” she said.
“Our risk is reducing as the day goes on but we just need to be prepared.
“Touch wood, we’re hoping the worst has past.”
■ Continued page 2
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“It’s an interesting concept and it certainly creates a bit of hype and hysteria and $165,000 was a record number and I’d love to have that for a $5kg box myself but as a grower you just put the box up.
“It’s a part of the prestige to say you’ve got the number one box for the season, but outside of that the big winner is the charity organisation of the day and the money raised was exceptional.”
Sydney Markets Foundation
CEO Meegan George said the cherry auction allows the market’s community to celebrate the stone fruit season in style alongside the wider fresh produce industry and corporate donors.
“By supporting Little Wings and their incredible work, we are ensuring children in rural and regional areas get the care they need, no matter the distance,” Ms George said.
It comes at a time so fruit growers are busy with the harvest in between weather events that have pummeled much of Australia.
Mr Smith said the tropical weather coming this far south last week was extremely rare and on Monday pickers were at out bringing in the fruit before Tuesday’s downpour.
“The rain was almost from Darwin to Hobart and it was very unusual and uncommon
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and it has certainly touched so fruit growers whether it was cherry, peach, nectarine or berry growers,” he said.
“Even cereal farmers would have been a ected, as it wouldn’t be good having acres of wheat out there still.”
Mr Smith expressed
optimism and said farmers are a resilient bunch and they know they can’t order the weather but over the last few years it has been more challenging around harvest time.
Smith’s Fruit still has 40 per cent of the yield to be harvested up until Christmas and while
some of the fruit would have been a ected, Mr Smith said technologies in shed with sorting and grading help to minimise waste.
“When mother nature throws you a curveball, you just have to do the best you can and work through it,” he said.
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As of 1pm Tuesday, the Ovens River level at Wangaratta was steady at 10.6m according to the BOM, below the minor ood level of 11.9m.
According to the BOM, rainfall across the Ovens River catchments was consistent to Wangaratta totals, with the highest recorded rain of 51mm in the 24 hours to 9am Tuesday at Mount Bu alo Chalet recording station.
Cheshunt received 42mm in the same period of time to be the highest amount of rain received in the King River catchment.
Ms Zuber said the impacts of the excessive rain could clearly be seen over roads in the city’s centre.
“We’re seeing a lot of backyards ooded from rain and that
on flood watch for Tuesday, with risks of flood easing throughout the day.
build up of water,” she said.
“Hopefully it’ll get away before that next lot of rain but we know our storm drains are quite full so we’re urging everyone to take care.”
Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms were forecast
across the North East for the remainder of Tuesday, but rainfall totals were not expected to be signi cant.
As for the rest of the week, showers and possible storms were forecasted to return to the region on Friday and Saturday
according to the BOM as of 3pm Tuesday, with up to 20mm predicted to fall on both days.
Ms Zuber said she urged the community to take care on the roads while ood water was present, particularly around trees.
“It’s important we start preparing now,” she said.
BOM said Ovens and King River catchments are relatively wet a er rainfall over the past week with levels elevated and continued to monitor the situation. Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.
You can nd out more about Wangaratta’s ood guide via the link: https://www.ses.vic.gov. au/.../rural-city-of-wangaratta. For emergency services, call the SES on 132 500.
By SIMONE KERWIN
FORMER Galen Catholic College deputy principal Shaun Mason will take on the principalship at the Wangaratta school from term two in 2025.
Mr Mason is currently principal
at Benalla’s FCJ College, a role he has held for three-and-a-half years, and will complete term one at FCJ while that college works towards appointing a new principal.
An acting principal will be appointed to serve Galen for term one.
Prior to his time in Benalla, Mr Mason was deputy principal at Catholic College Wodonga, and at
Galen, where he worked between 2014 and ‘16.
He will step into the position soon to be vacated by Darta Hovey, who has been principal at Galen since 2022 and is currently transitioning to the role of deputy director of mission and educational development at Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd (CESL).
Kate Fogarty, CESL executive di-
rector, said Mr Mason was an experienced and well-known principal within the Sandhurst Diocese, and was currently co-chair of the CESL Secondary Principals’ Network. She said he had exhibited to the appointment panel “a sincere humility regarding his capabilities, coupled with a strong desire to serve the Galen Catholic College community”.
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
THE actions of two local nurses and a piece of lifesaving equipment made a world of difference to attendees at a dog show at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club on the weekend of November 15 to 17.
A defibrillator was used to resuscitate an attendee after they collapsed with a medical condition, and two nurses’ quick thinking helped give the patient a fighting chance until an ambulance arrived and paramedics took over.
Club vice-president, Marion Gray, said it was “fantastic” to have the lifesaving equipment on hand and accessible on the day.
“We were able to give them a chance,” she said.
The defibrillator was recently acquired by the club through a grant from Wangaratta Connected Community, sponsored by Bendigo Bank.
Wangaratta Bendigo Bank branch manager, Steve Johnston, said the bank sees great benefit in being able to give back to the local community.
“It’s one way we can deliver our profits to get better outcomes for our community,” he said.
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES: Ron
Community Wangaratta’s AGM
Obedience Dog Club’s defibrillator.
“The use of the defibrillator shows how these grants have a tangible impact on the community.
“It’s nice to be able to support these community groups and have a benefit on not only the clubs or groups, but the wider community.”
Wangaratta Connected Community’s AGM will
be held this Wednesday, December 4 at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club.
There will be a grant pool of $2500 up for grabs on the evening, with sporting clubs, community associations or nonfor profits able to pitch a project and potentially pick up $500.
Five lucky groups could benefit from attending and hearing about grant opportunities through the Wangaratta Connected Community group.
Verbal project pitches will be heard at 5:45pm and successful recipients will be announced during the AGM from 6pm to 6:30pm.
Connected Community Wangaratta secretary, Ron Webb, said the event is an open invitation.
“All local groups and clubs are encouraged to come along and make a bid for $500,” he said. For more information email the committee at bbccwangaratta@gmail. com.
WANGARATTA police caught a North East pair in possession of illicit substances in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Police said officers intercepted a vehicle for a routine check in Wangaratta and spoke to a 28-year-old Benalla woman and a 42-year-old Whitfield man.
One of the occupants had an outstanding warrant for their arrest and both were searched by police.
Police said upon inspection the 28-year-old and 42-yearold were found in possession of a quantity of drugs.
The pair were charged with drug and property offences and bailed to appear at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on February 3.
PROJECT 365 and the Grit and Resilience Program are offering small and medium businesses in the Rural City of Wangaratta the opportunity to apply for a Mental Health First Aid Scholarship.
This free Mental Health First Aid training, taking place in March, will help staff build a supportive, resilient workplace. Applications close on December 13 with registration at wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Residents/Grit-Resilience/MentalHealth-First-Aid-Scholarships.
THE Friends of Wangaratta Library are holding a book sale on Saturday, December 7 from 9.30am to 12pm at Wangaratta Library.
There will be a large range of second-hand adult fiction, non-fiction and children’s books to choose from, with all money raised to assist the library in providing programming and events.
A FOCUS on improving existing infrastructure and services across Victoria is the goal of the Nationals Party under the direction of new leader Danny O’Brien if they’re elected to government in 2026.
Mr O’Brien joined Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy during his statewide sweep of regional Victoria getting the message across that there’s a new boss in town, but the ‘regions rst’ mantra remains the same.
The housing and cost of living crises are hitting regional residents as they are city dwellers and Mr O’Brien said the government needs to get its agencies in order instead of passing the buck onto local councils.
“Cost of living is number one for everyone and from a state perspective it’s driven by electricity prices, taxes and the government has introduced or increased 56 taxes since they came into power,” he said.
“This impacts on housing for example trying to buy a new property with a windfall gains tax which adds costs to developments.
“Or you might be trying to
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
rent from a landlord who is facing a huge ra of additional land taxes plus additional regulations.
“That’s just sending the vacancy rate down and the costs higher and these are some of the things we think the government has got wrong.”
Mr McCurdy said the housing crisis is man-made due to a lack of investment in sewerage and water supply as seen in Wangaratta.
He said they haven’t been forward investing in sewerage and water by planning ahead and being ready for when it’s time for development.
“We’re still behind in infrastructure and that’s because our water authorities are having to send money back to the mothership,” Mr McCurdy explained.
“We’re nding repatriation grants are going back to the government and that’s just cash from the big water boards going back to the government for
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
By ANITA McPHERSON
BUCKETS of chips and sausages in bread were selling like hot cakes at the Moyhu Football Netball Club, as thousands of cyclists arrived yesterday on day four of the Great Victorian Bike Ride.
The oval was a sea of tarps and tents, with vendors stationed around the recreation reserve doing a brisk trade in slurpies, slushies and ice creams for the tired riders.
Those who were too ex-
hausted to walk or ride even a mile further appreciated the shuttle bus, which transported people down to the Carl Schulz Reserve, where ice cold beers and local wines were served and a cappuccino machine at the café worked overtime.
Melbourne cyclists Charles and Erin Roth said while they had been to the North East, they hadn’t been to Moyhu before, and appreciated the friendly welcome they received.
“It’s nice because it’s so different to home – it’s quiet and the air is clean,” said Erin.
A team of staff and students from Wodonga Primary School taking part in the ride stopped to admire the welcoming hay bales, which along with a number of colourfully decorated vintage bicycles along the roadside, set
the scene for the event.
“The school has ‘challenge’ as one of its vision principles, so when we found out the bike ride was going to be local this year, we thought it was a great opportunity to take part,” said teacher, Matt Bramich.
Road users are being asked to take extra care today with around 3800 riders expected to be making their way from Moyhu to Mansfield, leaving the campsite between 6.30am and 9am and heading along the Wangaratta-Whitfield Road.
Melbourne and we’re just not getting that money back into infrastructure (regionally).
“We should be saying let’s build a pipeline out there for sewage and water and it might be 10 years before we get that and that’s where we’re behind.”
Mr McCurdy said the state needs to have emergency services such as ambulance, police, and CFA operating properly by investing in them.
“Northeast Health is doing a great job but they’re understa ed and under pressure, and obviously our roads and our schools (need funding),” he said.
“It’s about getting them back to a state where everyone has con dence again.”
Even though Ovens Valley electorate (formerly Murray Valley) has been a safe Nationals seat for decades, Mr O’Brien said they never view it this way.
“It never has been and particularly in this day and age everyone of our MPs takes it absolutely seriously and treats it like a marginal seat,” Mr O’Brien said.
“When you have independents and minor parties, we don’t take anything for granted.”
VICTORIANS are being reminded to take steps to protect themselves and their community from COVID-19 this summer, as COVID infections increase across the state.
The latest Victorian COVID-19 Surveillance Report, ending November 26, shows a significant increase in the
number of people in hospital with COVID-19, with the sevenday average now at 197 – a 59 per cent increase compared to the same period last month.
The number of cases notified to the department has also increased in recent weeks, up 44 per cent in the past month.
urged people
community to take steps to protect themselves and those around them.
These steps include staying at home if you’re feeling sick and wearing a mask when visiting high risk settings like an aged care home or a hospital.
By SIMONE KERWIN
THE chapel at Respect St John’s will be re-opened this week, for the first time since the introduction of COVID-19 restrictions.
Anglican Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester said through discussions with Respect Aged Care, plans had been put in place for the re-opening and re-hallowing of St John’s Chapel at the Williams Road aged care home, with a re-opening service to be held this Friday, December 6 from 11am.
“We are then hoping to have weekly services on Thursdays at 10am, as well as on other occasions during the year, and the chapel will also be able to host funerals again,” Bishop Bester said.
Though the building is no longer owned by the Wangaratta diocese, Bishop Bester said the provision of a consecrated Anglican space at St John’s had been a non-negotiable aspect of the sale to Respect Aged Care.
He said while two part-time chaplains had operated at St John’s pre-COVID, the pandemic had seen the cessation of this arrangement.
The provision of services in future would be through voluntary clergy, with this arrangement to be reviewed in six months’ time.
“I’m committed to give to people
what was promised to them,” Bishop Bester said.
“It was time to get it back up and running.”
Catering for a capacity of 60 people, the chapel will operate with Fr Alan Jarrad as ‘locum’, and other denominations are also expected to have the opportunity to use the space.
Corrine Hough, general manager of the aged care home at St John’s, said a number of residents were keen to enjoy services in the chapel, and would be pleased to see the re-opening happen.
“It means a lot to the community, and there has definitely been a lot of talk about it,” she said.
Peter Kenyon, retirement village manager at The Terrace, also said residents would welcome the move.
“The chapel represents the cornerstone of the original intent of St John’s, from its earliest days back in the 1960s,” he said.
“There are a lot of people in the village who will be pleased, including couples where one person is living in The Terrace and the other in aged care, and they will be able to attend here together.”
All are welcome to attend the December 6 re-opening service, commencing at 11am.
A WANGARATTA truck driver has been cleared of wrongdoing following a Coroner’s nding into a fatal collision which killed four people on Wenkes Road near Chiltern in August 2023.
The 32-year-old’s prime mover hit a Subaru SUV on the northbound lanes of the Hume Freeway on August 31 last year around 10:25am after the SUV failed to give way at the
Wenkes Road intersection.
The Coroners Court of Victoria heard Trevor Breen (76) and wife Lorraine (73) took o from Wagga Wagga with Trevor’s sister Kerry Capes (69) and husband Noel (73) earlier that morning.
The four were on their way to the Mornington Peninsula to visit one of Kerry and Noel’s sons and had just stopped for a coffee break in Chiltern as Mr
Breen resumed driving.
At the same time, a truck driver was towing two freighter trailers with his red prime mover towards Sydney.
The court heard he had spent the night in his Wangaratta home and inspected the truck, trailers and tyres before commencing driving at around 9:45am that morning.
Coroner Simon McGregor said as the Subaru approached the Wenkes Road
intersection to enter the freeway, Mr Breen failed to give way to the oncoming truck travelling east.
“This omission caused the collision which resulted in the death of the four occupants of the Subaru,” he said.
“Despite braking hard and swerving, the truck hit the driver’s side of the Subaru, causing the Subaru to rotate clockwise and clip the wire barrier in the centre medi-
an strip, then roll down the road, coming to rest on its passenger side.”
The court heard the truck was likely travelling at around 98km/h at the point of impact, with all four occupants dying at the scene of the incident.
The truck driver su ered only minor injuries in the collision, and no alcohol or illicit drugs were detected in his system.
Mr McGregor said multiple witnesses and dash cam footage of the truck showed its driver was concentrating appropriately and had no opportunity to avoid the collision.
“I am further satis ed the driver of the truck could not avoid the collision despite his best e orts,” he said. Mr McGregor conveyed his sincerest condolences to all four victims in the collision along with their families.
WANGARATTA welcomed the new Nationals’ Party leader into town this week, who will be aiming to promote the opposition Coalition into a viable alternative government before the next state election.
Danny O’Brien replaced Peter Walsh as the Nationals’ Party new boss and visited Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy during his statewide sweep of Victoria.
As Mr O’Brien was welcomed to town, he came carrying a booklet outlining the “failures” of the current State Government who have been in office for the last 10 years.
Issues outlined in the booklet ranged from cost-of-living blowouts to infrastructure failures which have particularly failed regional Victorians.
While there has been plenty of noise coming from the state opposition criticising the last decade of Labor government, it is now time to hear viable alternatives to the policies and projects they have lambasted.
The claims may be warranted, but there has to be a reason Labor has stood in government for the past 10 years and 21 of the past 25 years.
When we take to the polls in two years’ time, the Coalition can’t rely on securing votes based solely on Labor’s past performance, they need to offer a viable policies on how the state can be improved in the future.
The Ovens Valley electorate has been a safe Nationals seat for decades, but it’s vital the region can still see its path forward with the party under its new leader in particular.
Hopefully Mr O’Brien can rejuvenate the Coalition as a viable option for all Victorian voters to help lift the overall political debate across the board.
1
Mila Kunis gained fame through her role in which TV series?
(a) 30 Rock
(b) Arrested Development
(c) That ‘70s Show (d) Roseanne
2
Which architect is credited with the quote, “I am not attracted to straight angles or to the straight line, hard and inflexible, created by man.”?
(a) Frank Gehry
(b) Renzo Piano
(c) Le Corbusier
(d) Oscar Niemeyer
3
Transnistria is a small, breakaway region of
which country?
(a) Ukraine (b) Moldova
(c) Poland
(d) Serbia
4 A Mexican michelada is often described as a Bloody Mary that is made with what instead of vodka?
(a) White wine
(b) Tequila
(c) Gin (d) Beer
5 Who won the 2022 German motorcycle Grand Prix?
(a) Jack Miller (b) Fabio Quartararo (c) Aleix Espargaró
I CAN understand there are always going to be some issues, but problems surrounding the train service from Wangaratta to Melbourne appear to be systemic and have been a topic of conversation since I moved here 13 years ago.
On Saturday we travelled by coach to Melbourne as the train was booked out when I bought the tickets two weeks prior. Is there some reason additional carriages can’t be utilised?
On the return journey we were told to go to Platform 11 as there was a problem with Platform 2.
We boarded a train, it then stopped at Glenroy where we were told to exit the train and make alternative arrangements to get home.
There was talk of buses but we were advised that there would be a wait of indeterminate length.
A lady offered to drive us to Broadmeadows station, where I was told the train waiting there was going to Albury.
We then sat in that train for about half an hour, with an announcement stating that we couldn’t move because ‘there were people on the line’.
We eventually made it home but I’m wondering if that train load of passengers is still at Glenroy waiting for buses!
Carole Breust, Wangaratta
AS we come into summer and what we know will be a challenging fire season, I am urging all Victorians to have a fire plan and know where to get emergency information from.
Two significant fires have already taken place in the Wimmera and Otways this Spring and the summer seasonal outlook shows there is an increased fire risk for most of the west, southwest, northeast, Greater Melbourne and southwestern parts of Gippsland including the Mornington Peninsula.
In the west and southwest of Victoria there has been limited rainfall for the last 18 months that has resulted in a substan-
(d) Johann Zarco
6
A person who is described as an agelast is a person who never does what?
(a) Blinks
(b) Speaks (c) Laughs (d) Cries
7 In 2000, which band had a hit with the song, Teenage Dirtbag?
(a) Wheatus
(b) Radiohead (c) Green Day (d) Weezer
8
Which of the following countries is largest in size by total land area?
(a) Belgium (b) Austria (c) Latvia (d) Portugal
9 Max ‘Tangles’ Walker played domestic cricket for which state?
(a) Western Australia
(b) Tasmania (c) Victoria (d) South Australia
10 The Second Boer War began during which year?
(a) 1841
(b) 1859
(c) 1881 (d) 1899
tial amount of dead and dry plant material within forests, making it easier for fires to start and spread.
Grasslands in the areas with a heightened risk have superficial green on top that conceals underlying dryness, meaning grassland curing is likely to start earlier than normal. In the other parts of Victoria the fire risk is expected to be normal and we will continue to monitor these areas to identify any significant changes to fire risk.
CFA is ready to protect our communities, as we do every year and has been working with our Victorian emergency service partners to prepare for re season.
Fire safety is a shared responsibility between fire services and the community.
We’re asking all Victorians in high-risk areas to take simple actions to prepare their family and property as the weather begins to warm.
On hot, dry, windy days, fires can start and spread quickly.
If the Fire Danger Rating is Extreme or Catastrophic, leaving early before a fire has started is the safest option.
Never wait for an official warning before you leave, as you may not get one. Fires can start quickly and threaten
homes and lives within minutes.
Make sure you have a plan.
If you wait and decide to leave after a fire has started, you risk driving your family through thick smoke, fallen trees and power lines, and face the danger of collisions, being trapped by fire, serious injury or death.
Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app to stay across incidents and fire danger ratings in your area.
Stay safe.
Jason Heffernan, CFA Chief Officer
BENALLA Flexible Learning Centre, which draws a number of students from the Wangaratta area, recently celebrated the grand opening of its Aboriginal Yarning Circle and Dreaming Garden.
The event showcased collaboration, cultural learning and community pride, with the unique space a testament to the power of partnerships and the dedication of students, sta and local supporters.
The project was made possible through three grants, with pivotal contributions from the Social Inclusion Advisory Group, whose funding supported the catering and Welcome to Country ceremony conducted by Aboriginal engagement o cer Nikki James from Winton Wetlands.
The opening brought together students, families and community members, including representatives from the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisory board.
Thanks to the Stepping Stones grant from Tomorrow Today, Koori students collaborated with Taungurung Aboriginal artist and cultural educator Sammy Trist to design a stunning artwork.
Now displayed at the Yarning Circle, this piece tells a story of connection, learning and cultural unity through Aboriginal symbols and totems.
The students’ artwork explores themes of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children working together, fostering a deeper
SAFEGUARDS to monitor and give the Minister for Local Government power to rein in and suspend unruly councillors have been updated and adopted by Wangaratta council.
A new ‘Model Code’ has been applied to the Rural City of Wangaratta Council, replacing the Councillor Code of Conduct adopted in February 2021.
The code prescribes the minimum standards of behaviour expected of elected representatives and their obligation to treat fellow councillors, members of council staff and members of the public by:
not engaging in demeaning, abusive, obscene or threatening behaviour;
not engaging in behaviour that intentionally causes/perpetuates stigma, stereotyping, prejudice or aggression against a person or class of persons;
not engaging in discrimination or vilification;
supporting council in developing and maintaining respectful relationships and partnerships with Traditional Owners and the Aboriginal community; and
understanding of culture, connection to Country, and the importance of community.
Students were supported in this creative endeavour by art teacher Terry De Souza, who worked as an Ally to honour cultural protocols, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of the project.
Ally students also played a vital role, supporting their Koori peers and demonstrating the strength of collaboration.
The Dreaming Garden itself is a 50 metre native garden, cra ed in the shape of the long-necked turtle, the dreaming totem of the Yorta Yorta nation, with surrounding garden sculpted to embrace it and house the Ac-
knowledgement of Country, an important step in the process of adhering respectfully to the appropriate measures taken throughout the project.
Each part of the turtle holds symbolic and functional signicance: the head is the yarning circle, a central meeting space for cultural learning and community conversations; the shell houses three native trees that will grow to eight metres, providing shade and serenity; the tail features a special bench seat handcra ed by students as a space for quiet re ection; and the ns are garden beds lled with native plants including Kangaroo Paw.
Much of the garden was built us-
ing upcycled materials, and items bought with the use of the Advance Grant for government schools.
Students also created picnic seating and prepared and served food to guests on the day.
The garden’s impact has been profound, especially for students who travel from Wangaratta to attend BFLC.
These students, who make up more than 10 per cent of the student population, shared how meaningful it was to contribute to such a transformative project.
They expressed pride not only in their educational journey but also in the opportunity to support their peers and be part of something larger than themselves.
supporting council in fulfilling its obligations to achieving and promoting gender equality.
Obligations under the code include representing the municipality as a whole rather than the ward in which they were elected.
The code prescribes that councillors must comply with the council expenses policy, governance rules, the councillor gift policy and any ministerial direction relating to governance processes and failures.
It also outlines that councillors must act with integrity, exercise reasonable care and diligence and take reasonable steps to avoid any action that may diminish the public’s trust and confidence in the integrity local government.
AUSTRALIA’S rst ever Paramedic Practitioners are one step closer to hitting the road, with the State Government introducing a Bill into the Victorian Parliament to enshrine the role into law.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas joined paramedics to announce that the Paramedic Practitioners Bill 2024 will allow quali ed paramedics to deliver a higher level of care to patients when and where they need it.
“We listen to our work-
force who told us Australia’s rst Paramedic Practitioners will make a huge di erence – they’ll have advanced skills that will help people right across regional Victoria,” Ms Thomas said.
The new specialised role will give graduates an expanded role – allowing them to independently deliver urgent care to reduce pressure on Victoria’s busy ambulance services and emergency departments.
Under the expanded role, Paramedic Practitioners will be able to assess, diagnose
and treat many conditions locally without the need to transfer patients to hospital.
The biggest change will see Paramedic Practitioners able to handle and administer scheduled medicines, so they can prescribe and supply medicines on the spot to Victorians.
The rst cohort of 30 paramedics are currently undertaking the nation-leading Paramedic Practitioner master’s degree at Monash University – with a second cohort set to begin the course next year.
Developed alongside Am-
bulance Victoria, Safer Care Victoria, paramedics, clinicians, and unions, the rst 30 students will be deployed to regional Victoria in 2026.
Once graduated, they’ll be able to treat conditions that commonly see people visit a hospital – including urinary catheter care, wound care and closure, minor infections, dislocations and fractures.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 invested $20 million to establish the role of Paramedic Practitioner, including delivering the new degree at no cost to eligible
paramedics who have more than ve years’ experience.
“We created the free Paramedic Practitioners master’s degree because we know how important it is to give regional Victorians the care they need and help to reduce demand on our busy hospital EDs,” Northern Victoria MP, Jaclyn Symes, said.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $2 billion into ambulance services – recruiting more than 2200 additional paramedics, delivering 41 new or upgraded ambulance stations and establishing a new Centre for Paramedicine in partnership with Victoria University.
The government is also supporting the training of 40 additional Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics with AV welcoming their largest cohort of MICA trainees in history. These investments are as important as ever, with the latest quarterly data revealing Victoria’s hardworking paramedics continue to face high demand, attending close to 100,000 Code 1 call outs.
ANASTASIA PANAGIOTAKIS took second place in the 2024 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year 5/6 poetry/ song lyrics category with this piece.
The competition was jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta.
The rst man I ever loved stood tall above my head. He read me bedtime stories, Then he’d tuck me into bed.
He’d listen to my prayers, Scare the bogeyman away.
He’d leave the hallway light on Until the break of day.
We’d always laugh when I danced upon his feet, He’d twirl me in a circle
To make the dance complete. He taught me about courage And not to compromise.
The rst man I ever loved Is very brave and wise.
Although life brings many changes through the good and bad I wouldn’t change you for the world
You are such a special dad!
IVY ANDERSON-BYRNE took third place in the 2024 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year 5/6 poetry/song lyrics category with this piece.
The competition was jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta.
The moon shines bright and bold Up in the sky at night | wonder what secrets she might behold, Shining with all that light.
The moon sings her song, Waiting for the stars.
She sits above the clouds, shiny and strong, Trying to hide her scars.
The moon is secretly sad, Longing to be free.
The stars are glad, They watch the night go by with glee.
HENRY TALBOT took rst place in the 2024 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year 5/6 poetry/song lyrics category with this piece.
The competition was jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta.
Boots, hats, belts, jeans ‘n’ shirts.
Horse trucks, 4WDs ‘n’ horse oats.
Cows bawling, horses whinnying and people shouting.
Dust, saddles, ropes ‘n’ straps.
The smell of animals is all around.
The whirling of a rope.
The sound of a stirrup hitting a barrel.
A bull snorting as he tries to dislodge a rider.
A strap apping as a bronco ies.
Speakers booming and people cheering throughout the crowd.
The night stars glowing.
It’s a great night out at the rodeo.
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exhibition
A GROUP exhibition by the 15 resident artists at the Art Gallery on Ovens opens this week in the laneway off Murphy Street and runs until December 23.
See a wide range of artwork showcasing the artists individual styles, including examples of acrylic and oil painting, printmaking, drawing, watercolour, collage, multimedia, sculpture and more.
The final exhibition of the year at the gallery, an official opening will be held on Thursday, December 5 from 5pm to 7pm with all welcome to attend.
THE wait is nearly over, with Australian musical treasure Marcia Hines set to hit the stage at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre this Friday night, as part of her Still Shining concert tour.
Having postponed her planned visit in October, Marcia is now coming to town; the event being held to celebrate the multi-talented artist’s five decade career, during which she has released 23 albums, clocked up 2.6 million in sales and had countless chart-topping singles and multi-platinum albums. It all began when Marcia
moved to Australia from Boston in 1970 at the age of just 16 to star in the production of Hair, going on to perform as Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar and making the song, I Don’t Know How to Love Him, her own.
Her popularity soared in the 1970s with hit singles including Fire and Rain, I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself, You, and Something’s Missing (In My Life), releasing multiple top 10 albums and being voted Queen of Pop for three consecutive years from 1976.
In one of many career reinventions, Marcia became Aus-
THE popular Folk Rhythm & Life Festival will kick off this Friday, December 6 and run until Sunday, December 8, featuring a lineup of 60 big music acts including The Deans, Whiskey Dram, Dead Necks, Dallas Frasca, Liv Cartledge and many more.
It will all take place at the Bilyana Natural Amphitheatre in Eldorado, celebrating music and the bush, with DJs, a big kids village, workshops, comedians, singing and dancing, swimming, food and beer.
Camping is on site and in the National Park, with shuttle buses to take visitors the 1.5km from the car park to site, and tickets are available now at www. bilyana.com.au.
tralian Idol’s favourite judge for the show’s seven consecutive years, she was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007 and received the Order of Australia (AM) in 2009 for her services to the Australian Entertainment Industry and charity.
She returned to the judging panel for the 2024 season of Australian Idol on the Seven Network, and recently toured Australia in the hit stage production Grease the Musical in the role of Teen Angel.
Friday night’s concert will celebrate her journey; all the highs, the lows and the extraor-
ENJOY a dazzling production when World Class Entertainment Australia proudly presents Music of the Night at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, March 29. Hear breathtaking musical performances from some of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most popular productions, from the haunting melodies of Phantom of the Opera to the electrifying rhythms of Jesus Christ Superstar, and the heart-warming tunes of Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat.
Featuring Australia’s own multi awardwinning instrumentalist and vocalist, Joey Fimmano, together with world-class performers, Miss Saigon star Dexter Villahermosa, and leading soprano Jessica Di Bartolo, tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.
dinary relationship she has with Australian audiences.
Marcia will be accompanied by her musicians and a production crew, playing songs from the early days of Fire and Rain, to the Discotheque album and all the way through to the 2022 release of The Gospel According to Marcia.
It promises to be two hours plus of memories, musicality and a little madness from an artist who is beloved by Australian audiences.
Secure your seat for the concert on Friday, December 6 at 7.30pm, with tickets at wpacc. com.au.
THE festive season will be officially launched when the Rural City of Wangaratta holds the Lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Riverside Square in Faithfull Street on Friday, December 6 from 6pm to 9pm.
Part of its Summer In The Parks program of events, all are welcome to attend the free event which will have food and drinks available for purchase, with a sausage sizzle provided by the Rotary Club of Appin Park and fresh gelato from Rinaldo’s Casa Cucina.
There will also be activities for children, including face painting and craft stations, the possibility of a visit from a special guest of the season, plus a “makers and creators” market in Apex Park co-hosted by Ultimate Events.
PIANIST Mark Bolsius will be joined by versatile vocalist and clarinet player Jane Still, for a Steinway on Stage performance at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Wednesday, Decem-
It will be the final Steinway on Stage under the auspice of Wangaratta Arts Council, with all invited to enjoy the last of the intimate twilight concerts, where audience members gather on the Alpine MDF stage around the Steinway grand piano.
Tickets are available now at wpacc.com.au.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A project benefits from your organizational skills that get it up and running. Your success leaves a highly favorable impression. Don’t be surprised if you get some positive feedback soon.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Spend time on practical matters throughout the week, then shift your focus to more artistic pursuits. Resist being overly self-critical. Just allow yourself to feel free to create.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Restarting those creative projects you had set aside for a while will help provide a much-needed soothing balance to your hectic life. Besides, it will be like meeting old friends again!
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A change in plans could make it tough to keep a commitment. But stay with it. You’ll get an A-plus for making the effort to do what’s right and not taking the easy way out by running off.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) The Lion’s enthusiasm for a workplace policy review is admirable. But be sure you know who is really behind the resistance to change before pointing your finger at the wrong person.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You can expect to have a lot of work throughout the first half of the week. Devote the rest of the week to checking your plans in case some need to be adjusted.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Try to avoid signing on the dotted line during the early part of the week. You need time to study issues that weren’t fully explored. The latter part of the week might be more favorable for decisionmaking.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A new development could snarl travel schedules or other holiday-linked projects. Some flexibility might be called for, to deal with problems before they get too far out of hand.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Relatives seek your advice on a matter you’d rather not be involved in. If so, use your sage Sagittarian tact to decline the “offer” so that no one’s feelings are needlessly hurt.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A shift in your planning direction might help you speed up your progress toward achieving a long-planned goal. Trusted colleagues are ready to offer valuable support.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)
An unexpected demand for the settlement of an old loan could create some preholiday anxiety. But you might not really owe it. Check your records thoroughly before remitting payment.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) It’s a good time to get involved with your social circle. Enjoy some well-earned fun and games with those closest to you before you have to resume more serious activities next week.
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
THE community spirit of Moyhu and the King Valley was on show when hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the 200th anniversary of explorers Hamilton Hume and William Hovell’s visit to the region on November 23, 1824.
It began in the morning with a street parade featuring riders on horseback, vintage vehicles including historic bicycles, cars and tractors as well as walkers, making their way from Carl Schulz Reserve to Moyhu Primary School, where a country fair was held to also celebrate 150 years of the school.
Among those leading the procession were event coordinator Regina Callaway riding side-saddle, while her daughter Teagan Callaway managed a convincing portrayal of Ned Kelly; the slow-moving procession bookended by Moyhu CFA which stepped up to ll in for the local police.
Regina said a massive crowd was already lined up to enter the fair when they arrived at the school, with more than 300 people coming through the gates to enjoy what was on o er.
A rotating collection of hundreds of historical photos of Moyhu and surrounds were displayed on the Moyhu Football Club’s big screen, while visitors browsed a display of antique and collectables, old school uniforms and writing desks set up in the old school building, which Regina said added a nice touch to the day’s activities, and became a good spot to escape the heat.
Outside there was plenty to see including displays by the Warby Engine Club, sheep shearing and yarn spinning demonstrations, the Cheshunt cra group, Moyhu Men’s Shed, blacksmithing, wood working, leather working, glassworks, and farm animals including ducks, chooks, goats, lamb and cows.
Band Snow Road Troopers kept
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host an in-house movie, ‘Annie’, today from 1.30pm.
The club hosts indoor carpet bowls on Thursday from 1pm, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 1pm, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the clubrooms in Tara Court, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
WANGARATTA Newcomers will not be meeting in December or January.
The group’s next get-together will be at Intermezzo Café on Thursday, February 6 from 2pm to 3.30pm, when all are invited to join them for a cuppa, a chat and to meet some new people. For more information, phone Susan on 0412 497 183, Joy on 0401 843 815 or Ann on 0435 275 864.
THOONA CWA will host its Christmas Carols on Friday, December 6 at the Thoona Community Hall.
everyone entertained, getting people up and moving to the Nutbush despite the temperature rising on the hot spring day.
Kids also enjoyed the races and games which included cow pat bingo, hobby horses (which Regina had made), egg and spoon and three-legged races.
“I tried to get as many community groups involved in the event as a I could, so we had Moyhu Football Netball Club running a bar, Moyhu Lions Club provided a sausage sizzle, King River and District Fishing Club had pulled pork, potatoes and rolls, Moyhu CWA did a cake stall and Moyhu Primary School had ice creams,” she said.
“We also had AJ’S co ee van and King River Estate there, and Jill and Craig from Benalla who came to help and had sausage rolls for me.”
Current students from Moyhu
Free barbecue from 6pm with carols from 7.30pm, followed by a special appearance, and a light supper in the supper room. All welcome.
A CHRISTMAS market will be held in St Patrick’s Hall on Saturday, December 7 from 9am to 1pm, with a range of stalls stocked with potential Christmas gifts, and refreshments available. There will be buskers, a Christmas photo corner, and a jumping castle and craft activities for children.
ROYAL Children’s Hospital Christmas stall will be held this year at the market in St Pat’s Hall, Ford Street, Wangaratta on Saturday, December 7 from 9am to 1pm.
The usual array of homemade cakes, preserves, knitwear and other items will be available, along with freshly-made lamingtons.
VETERAN and family morning tea is held at the Wangaratta RSL
A highlight of the 200 years celebrations in Moyhu was the unveiling of a storyboard at the Angleside site conducted by Peter Shanley and special guest, Ovens Valley Nationals MP Tim McCurdy.
PHOTO: Lisa Turner
ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT: The celebration began with a street parade to the Moyhu Primary School with participants including Regina Callaway riding side saddle, followed by Teagan Callaway as Ned Kelly, with Maddison Callaway, Abbey Burrowes and Johno Moore.
welcomed and thanked everyone for attending with a speech they prepared, with the climax of the event the unveiling of a storyboard erected beside the Hume and Hovell monument at Angleside in Moyhu, conducted by Ovens Valley Nationals MP Tim McCurdy, assisted by Peter Shanley.
Regina said the storyboard itself was a collaborative, community effort, having been designed, funded and made by locals and supportive businesses.
She said she had wanted to create something to mark the occasion which would be low maintenance, unique and capture the spirit of Hume and Hovell’s adventure, settling on storyboard which shared fascinating elements of the pair’s expedition, such as what they carried with them.
The entire event was three
on the second Tuesday of each month, with the next catch-up on Tuesday, December 10 from 10am to 11.30am. Feel free to wear something ‘Christmasy’.
All current and ex-service personnel and families welcome, for further details phone 0447 217 768.
OXLEY Garden Group’s next gathering will be held at Kaye and Peter Wadley’s garden at Oxley Park, RMB 2120 Snow Road, Oxley, from 10am on Thursday, December 11. BYO cup, chair, plate to share and cuttings, bulbs, etc to swap. For details, phone Kaye on 0429 662 286.
ENJOY a coach trip to the Australian Open on Thursday, January 16, leaving the Swan
ENJOY an evening of Christmas carols at the Cheshunt Hall on Saturday, December 7. Presented by the Cheshunt Baptist Church, the fun starts from 5pm with face painting, a jumping castle and a sausage sizzle from 5pm, with carols to start from 7.30pm.
The music will be provided by the Wangaratta Concert Band featuring soloist Jane Still, a string quartet and there are other treats in store, with all welcome.
A CHRISTMAS barbecue will be held in the Whitfield community on Friday, December 20 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve from 6pm.
The free community event will include a barbecue (byo drinks) and a community raffle with tickets $2.
RSVP is requested for catering purposes via text or call to Cathy on 0427 057 849, or to Bruce on 0427 554 234, or email kvccomplex@gmail.com.
months in the making and while Regina was exhausted by the end of the weekend, she said it was worth the e ort, crediting the support she received from the Moyhu community for its success - with many lending a hand the day before to set up, and also braving the heat to help pack up when it was over.
“I couldn’t be happier with how it went and the number of people who came along, especially with the hot weather,” she said.
“Without the support and help from local businesses and community members, it wouldn’t have been what it was - it was a real community spirit that made it so successful.”
An entry fee charged on the day not only covered costs, but made $400 pro t, which Regina said will be donated to the Moyhu CFA who are raising funds for a new tanker.
Street car park at 6.30am and then departing the tennis centre at 6pm.
Coach fare $52, with limited number of tickets to Margaret Court Arena available at $95 each. More tickets or ground passes can be purchased if requested. For details, phone Marj on 0400 285 288.
WANGARATTA Seniors Old Time
Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street.
Live music supplied by the Rustic Ramblers, admission $10, please bring a plate of supper to share. For details, phone 0407 357 226 or 0408 032 451.
COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am. Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre
THE next screening of the King Valley Arts Film club will be held on Tuesday, December 10 and it will be the third season launch and a special, end of year celebration.
The movie is director Greg Berlanti’s 2024 comedy romance drama Fly Me to the Moon starring Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum and Woody Harrelson, with doors open at 7pm with the screening to start at 7.30pm at the Cheshunt Hall cinema.
Annual membership is still just $40 per person, with more information and a membership form downloadable at kingvalleyarts. com.au/film-club/.
at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome. Morning tea provided –please bring your own cup. Contact Nick Youings on 0408 240 554.
WANGARATTA AL–Anon Family Group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick‘s Hall in Ford Street.
All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else‘s drinking, this group may be for you.
Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828, or phone 1300 252 666.
CENTRE Quilters Circle meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street.
New members welcome, current members are willing to share their expertise and skills. BYO lunch. Contact Wendy on 5722 4415 or Leonie on 0403 226 129.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
MARK’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
TILING, wall/ floor, bathrooms, renovations. Phone Claude 0435 945 513.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
TOYOTA
GXL KLUGER AWD. 7-seater, registered 5/2025, 190,000km, SUV auto, 6cyl 3.5L petrol, tow ball fitted, black interior, 2017 built, garaged, 1 owner car, reg (1JA9NI) $22,000, located Milawa. Phone Jess 0429 859 208.
2019 Toyota Corolla Accent auto, RWC, Vic plates, Reg 1MC-5HL, 22,500 km, services. Mum can no longer drive, Wangaratta. $21,500. Ph Geoff after 5pm 0408 089 276.
2010 Mazda CX7 SUV, auto, sold with RWC, 163,000km, reg till Jan 25 (YBD451), $7900, LMCT9246, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221.
2015 green manual Mitsubushi Mirage, towbar, 167,000km, rego till Feb 25 (1GH7HB), RWC, $3500. Ph 0428 257 221.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
CARAVANS & CAMPERS
TRAVELLER Australia Penthouse (Y32913), semi off road caravan, very little use, full annex, slide out Weber, gas bottles, slide out storage box (slides out either side), 170kW Solar, queen size bed, Power operated lift up storage under bed, stove and oven, large fridge, TV, microwave, radio, washing machine and clothes dryer, full large ensuite and air conditioner. $35,000. PH 0429 809 643.
Dave 0431 685 549.
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
A school of The Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)
The College seeks applications from suitable applicants for the following positions commencing in January 2025:
Full-time/Ongoing
Sports Assistant - Whole School Full-Time/Ongoing
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for position descriptions and application closing dates.
Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
NOW HIRING SUPERMARKET BUTCHER (FULLY QUALIFIED)
We are looking for an enthusiastic, reliable person with great customer service skills to become part of our team at FoodWorks Mansfield. This position is in a fast-paced team environment, in the preparation and production of quality meat products. The successful candidate must:
• have an understanding of food safety procedures
• have an understanding of the OH&S requirements in a Meat Department
• have a strong work ethic
• have outstanding customer service skills be able to physically complete tasks associated with this role (e.g., lifting heavy boxes, etc.)
• have an eye for attention to detail
• have a ‘continuous improvement’ and ‘can do’ attitude
This position is preferably full-time but part-time would be considered, for the right applicant.
To apply for a position, please email your cover letter, resume (with references), and contact details to jobs@reddrop.com.au or speak to Andrew Marshall in store.
BURNS, Noel Alexander.
25/6/1937 – 28/11/2024
Noel Alexander Burns passed away at Northeast Health, Wangaratta on Thursday, November 28, 2024 with his family by his side. Aged 87 years.
Dearly loved and loving husband of Annette. Treasured father and father-in-law of Kerry and Garry, Di and Col, Chris and Eug, Wendy, Julie and Al. Adored Pop to 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
BURNS
Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service of Mr Noel Burns, to be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, December 6, 2024 commencing at 10.30am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. As a loving and meaningful tribute to Noel, a donation to Northeast Health would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made online at givenow.com.au/nhw Noel’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/ Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
“Forever in our hearts” BURNS, Noel. Brother and brother-in-law of Barry and Marilyn.
Will miss you mate. Love you.
~ Barry, Marilyn and Family.
With PAULINE MONCREIFF, The Book Circle
THE November gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, November 27 and a variety of books were shared.
FICTION
Precipice - Robert Harris
During WWI, British Prime Minister, HH Asquith embarks on an ill-judged a air with socialite Venetia Stanley, and shares wartime cabinet secrets and correspondence with her, as he values her opinion.
His frequent letters to her are o en accompanied by top-secret government documents.
A bright young policeman, seconded to what later becomes MI5, follows the trail of the document leakage.
This is a remarkable and alarming story, based closely on fact.
The Thursday Murder Club seriesRichard Osmond
If you loved TV murder series such as Midsomer Murders, Murder she wrote and Diagnosis Murder, you will love this series of books by Richard Osmond.
Osmond blends mystery with humour and an abundance of heartfelt warmth.
While the characters and setting are somewhat unbelievable (a group whose mean age would be around 75, in a retirement village), the tales are gripping and the humour is Osmond at his best.
He manages to endear the reader to his characters over 4 books, and also manages to address some of the problems of ageing in the process.
While reading the rst book, I had thought that it perhaps lacked the depth of a really good crime novel.
However, by the end of the book, I decided it would be interesting to see how his characters developed.
By the fourth book, I was thoroughly hooked on this group of septuagenarians who manage to solve murders better than the police, FBI and CIA.
The characters, rather than the murders they solve are the essence of the books.
We Solve Murders - Richard Osman
A er reaching the end of the Thursday Murder Club series,
the author decided to try for something di erent.
This novel has the same light touch, relatable characters, and his usual gentle humour.
Amy, a private security o cer, is protecting a wealthy client, Rosie, on a secluded island.
When Amy nds herself under suspicion for a series of murders, she and Rosie go on the run, with a killer on their trail.
Her father-in-law, a happily settled former police o cer and her chief con dante, is reluctant to become involved in the death and destruction following Amy, but will do anything to help her.
Their warm friendship is one of the chief delights in this very enjoyable novel.
Tenth Anniversary - James Paterson (The tenth in the Women’s Murder Club series).
Detective Lindsay Boxer’s wedding celebration has to be put on hold when she is called to investigate a horri c crime.
To Cut A Long Story Short: 15 Short Stories - Jeffrey Archer
A collection of stories by the
foreign currency lending scheme, with an interest rate of 14 per cent, then proceeded to o er it to unsophisticated farmers an owners of small businesses.
Needless to say, the scheme failed dismally with the devaluing of the Australian dollar, and many families faced nancial ruin.
Tom and his law rm took the bank court in 1987.
Winter Of The World - Ken Follett
This is the second book in a trilogy tracing the fortunes of several families during the twentieth century.
It begins in 1933, and continues to the outbreak of the War, the horri c devastation of Pearl Harbour, and the development of the nuclear bomb.
Five families live out their destinies in these turbulent times.
Her Father’s Daughter - Alice Pung
A memoir set in Melbourne, China and Cambodia, dealing with the father-daughter relationship and intergenerational trauma.
A powerful book.
excellent and imaginative Je rey Archer.
Very entertaining.
The Sentence - Louise Erdrich
A wickedly funny ghost story about a bookseller, set in Minnesota.
The Hazelbourne Ladies’ Motorcycle And Flying Club - Helen Simonson
In 1919, as England prepares to celebrate its hard-won peace, the women in this story confront the fact that the freedoms they gained during the war are being revoked. Poppy and her group of intrepid motorcyclists and mechanics are bold enough to tackle this problem head-on.
Librarians Of The Rue De PicardieJanet Skeslien Charles
This novel is based on the true story of Janet (Kit) Carson, an American librarian who sought to bring comfort and the joy of reading to displaced children in the north of France.
She soon discovers that the job involves much more than this, as every able-bodied volunteer must provide what assistance they can
• Emailed three times a week
• Featuring latest news headlines and photos
• See what’s making news in Wangaratta and the North East region
to people in dire need.
By the author of The Paris Library
The Tilt - Chris Hammer
A gripping and atmospheric thriller.
Homicide detective Nell Buchanan returns to her home town to solve a cold-case murder, but soon other more recent bodies are discovered.
What has been going on?
The description of the Australian landscape of bush, river and small country town forms an essential background for this fast-moving story.
Tom Mortimer, Pitt Street BankersGary Davis
The main character, Tom Mortimer, is based on the author, Gary Davis.
Tom came from a dairying background, and despite winning a scholarship, had to leave school early to nd outside work and to help on the farm.
He worked his way up in the banking world, then worked in a law o ce in Lismore while studying for his law degree.
A Sydney bank initiated a
Mailman of the Birdsville Track, Tom Kruse - Kristin Weidenbach
The Birdsville Track is one of the best-known and loneliest tracks in Australia.
For 20 years, Tom Kruse was the mailman, battling everything from searing heat to mechanical breakdowns, in the middle of nowhere.
He began in the years before reliable vehicles and communications.
He made running repairs to his trucks, using bush ingenuity and scrounged materials.
One of his more memorable e orts was the repair of a bent front axle by raising the front of the truck, removing the axle and putting it on a roaring re.
When it was hot enough, he straightened it with a crowbar and re tted it once it was cool enough.
He loaded and unloaded tons of stores, and sometimes, in the wet season, he ferried his cargo across ooded rivers on a laden ra , making many return crossings.
Kruse was truly a classic Australian pioneer, and an important part of our early history.
Highly recommended.
(Back of Beyond, a lm about Tom Kruse, is available on Youtube
WHILE the scheduled cricket match was abandoned due to rainfall, the fun was still guaranteed at the City Colts Cricket Club’s Ladies’ Day on Saturday. Held at the Barr Reserve Community Centre, the day was well attended and supported by the community.
Attendees were asked to wear a splash of orange, to help raise awareness of gender-based violence as part of Zonta Wangaratta’s 16 Days of Activism.
A silent auction and ra e were held to raise funds for the Centre Against Violence, with a total of $2155 raised.
WANGARATTA Warriors
had eight boys and girls under 16 and 18 teams represent the association at their tournament on the weekend.
The Wangaratta hosted tournament was played in Wodonga due to the new stadium still not being open with the under 16 and 18 boys teams reaching grand finals.
Wangaratta Basketball Inc president Adam Maher said although it’s always nice to play at home, Wodonga was a more than a comfortable alternative.
“There was a really good buzz around the tournament again this year, although we had to hold it in Wodonga,” Maher said.
“People really like Wodonga which sounds terrible for Wangaratta but it’s more manageable there because there’s three courts within three minutes.
“It’s harder on our volunteers and officials but they all did a great job, they stood up and delivered a really good tournament.”
While it was a successful tournament, all Wangaratta people would prefer to be playing their home tournament locally.
“It’s pretty tough but we’ve been told that we should have more answers this week,” Maher said.
“The sad thing is we had to book Wodonga again for next year’s under 12s and 14s tournament in March because we can’t wait until the last minute – people need to prepare and book accommodation.
“I’m not sure what to tell people anymore, I understand building is a process but it seems to be taking forever.”
The under 18s finished second in their pool and eventually went on to take on Wodonga in the grand final.
The Warriors held a threepoint lead at quarter time and then went on to outscore Wodonga 45-27 in the remaining
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
three quarters to run out convincing winners 56-35.
The Grand Final MVP was awarded to Wangaratta Warrior Charlie Maher.
In the under 16s, who finished top of the table after a narrow two-point loss to Wodonga, followed by strong wins against Mansfield and Echuca and proceeded to the grand final with a comfortable win against Mansfield in the semi-final.
In a tightly contested game, Wangaratta held a one point three quarter time lead.
The final quarter saw numerous lead changes with Wodonga getting the advantage late in the game and defeating Wangaratta 49-43.
“Friday night I lost two players to injury and illness, so going into the tournament with seven players, I knew it was going to be challenging,” under 16’s coach Ian Pople said.
“This weekend was the most complete games that the team has played and while there is a lot of room for them to improve still, the improvement over the first three tournaments of the season has been remarkable.
“Wodonga are the benchmark in the North East, when we played them at the Echuca tournament, they beat us twice by nearly 30 points, whereas this weekend we could have beaten them twice if a couple of things went our way.
“The grand final came down to the last 60 seconds and we only had four players on court because three had fouled out, but they just kept on fighting to try and get the win.
“While disappointed to lose the grand final, I’m very proud of how the boys played and the character that they showed.”
ST Bernard’s Primary School was well represented at Friday’s Victoria State Primary T20 Cricket Blast finals in St Kilda, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams winning through after strong regional performances.
Students took on schools from Mildura, Warrnambool, Truganina, Swan Hill, Waverly, and Bass Valley.
The boys’ team fought hard to defend their title but ended up finishing fifth overall.
Harry Edwards was tremendous with the ball, taking many vital wickets.
The girls’ team started up against the team that would go on to win the final and played hard all day.
Maya Symons was fabulous in the field while Sylia Saunders was outstanding with the bat.
The girls finished fifth in the state, out of more than a thousand schools.
The students represented the school with pride and displayed exceptional behaviour both on and off the field.
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA product Joe Richards will wear number 35 at Port Adelaide.
It’s the first time the number has been worn at the Power in 12 years, coming out of retirement after the tragic passing of John McCarthy.
Power officials felt Richards was the perfect player to bring the number back, sharing the same Collingwood to Port Adelaide journey as the late McCarthy.
“So originally, I got contacted by Port Adelaide just after the trade period and they just asked if I wanted the number,” Richards said at a press conference.
“Obviously, coming from Collingwood, similar to John, and being traded to Port Adelaide, there’s a little connection there.
“And I jumped at the opportunity as soon as they offered it up.
“There is a bit of history and obviously Chad Cornes wore it before John - so a little bit of pressure.
“But I’ll try and make it my own and do as much as I can in it.”
Richards announced his desire to join the Power on the eve of the trade period with a deal eventually being struck.
The Power received the 24-yearold as part of a mega three-club deal with Gold Coast and Collingwood, along with Jack Lukosius and Rory Atkins.
“It was more about the opportunities that I get coming here, and hopefully I can make the position my own, so that was probably the main factor,” Richards said.
“I definitely took my time, I think I made the decision the day before the trade period, or maybe even the day of the trade period.
“But yeah, there was a bit of a process, because Port Adelaide were obviously still in finals at the time so they were obviously focused on finals.
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“We’re still just going through try-outs at the moment, we haven’t finalised any teams or squads at all,” she said.
“There are a few stepping out, a few new faces at try-outs, so we’ll have to wait and see who comes to try-outs.
“My manager was doing a fair bit of work behind the scenes, obviously talking to Collingwood and weighing up whether coming to Port was
the right move or staying in Collingwood.
“There was a lot of lot of stuff to think about, but I’m really happy with my decision.”
Richards will form a small forward duo with fellow Wangaratta Magpie and fresh draftee Joe Berry.
“Yeah, I knew Joe, we’re from the same area, so I caught up with him and did a few sessions with him,” Richards said.
“He’s fitting in really well, along with the other boys.
“The first one was Monday night, we had really good numbers, over 40 people show up.
“It was great, lots of new people, lots of returning players.
A GRADE:
Boralma Berkshire (Austin Lindner, John Wright) def Appin Park Store (Markus Angehrn, Pat Sehgal) final rubber score 3/2.
Singles won: J Wright 2, M Angehrn 1, P Sehgal 1.
Doubles: A Lindner/J Wright. N.E. Ag & Industrial (Steve Picken, Ash Wurtz) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Nathan Vincent, Ken Parker) final rubber score 3/2.
Singles won: S Picken 1, A Wurtz 2, N Vincent 1.
Doubles: N Vincent/K Parker. Somerset Communications (Evan
Kibble, Tom Brown) def Auto 8 (Andrew Lindner, Kim Brown) final rubber score 3/2.
Singles won: E Kibble 1, T Brown 1, A Lindner 2. Doubles: E Kibble/T Brown.
B GRADE: Blue Raven (Michael Bellingham, Dave Hudson, Matt Curran) def. Somerset Comms (Dan Larkings, Mick Gervasoni, Robert Voss) final rubber score 7/4. Singles won: M Bellingham 2, D Hudson 3, M Curran 1, D Larkings 2, R Voss 1.
Doubles: M Bellingham/D Hudson
1, M Gervasoni/R Voss 1.
Boralma Berkshire (Ted Tatulaschwili, Phil Fitzgerald, Seth Knox) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Tim Oliver, Manny Poulos, Chris Dean) final rubber score 6/5.
“He’s a really good footballer, and hopefully gets to show that this year.”
“It’s going to be a tough gig doing selection, that’s for sure, there’s so much talent among them.”
Joining White on the club’s coaching panel is Sharyn Ackerly and Amy Mountney (B grade), Kym Amery (B reserve), Kate Donald (C grade), and Jade Penney (15 and under).
“It’s a really great coaching panel that has lots of years of experience coaching different grades between us all,” White said.
“It’ll be great to see what each coach can bring to the table, see what strengths we can all have together as a group.”
Final rubber score 5/0.
Blue Raven (Stephen Alger, Reggie Kanaskar) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (Janna, Joe Ibrahim) final rubber score 3/2.
Singles won: E Tatulaschwili 2, P Fitzgerald 1, S Knox 2, T Oliver 2, C Dean 2.
Doubles: E Tatulaschwili/P Fitzgerald 1, T Oliver/ C Dean 1.
C GRADE:
Appin Park Store (Renee McCarthy, Gary Coad) def N.V.C. (Campbell Hobbs, Jesse Hughes)
Singles won: J Ibrahim 2, S Alger 1, R Kanaskar 1. Doubles: S Alger/R Kanaskar.
Boralma Berkshire (John Ngiam, Ollie Andrew) def Somerset Communications (Julie Lindner, Trent Jones) Final rubber score 5/0
Play continues next Wednesday at 7pm with the first week of finals. The Showgrounds venue will be open from 6pm.
The club will continue their netball trials, with the juniors’ last session on Thursday, December 5, and the seniors concluding on Monday, December 9.
Katie Ford assesses her next move at Wangaratta Basketball Inc’s junior tournament on the weekend. The tournament was held in Wodonga with Wangaratta’s new stadium yet to open.
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TARRAWINGEE superstar netballer Tig White is con dent she has what it takes as she steps up to coach the Bulldogs’ A grade squad in 2025.
The two-time Fay Morgan Medallist, multiple club B&F winner and multiple league Team of the Year defender will take over the club’s top coaching role on the court from teammate Maddie Canning, who elected not to stay on a er leading the club to a semi- nals berth.
White said she was looking forward to her rst season as an A grade coach.
“I’ve been around the club for such a long time, I know how a few things work, so it was nice
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
to take the opportunity to step up,” she said.
“The opportunity came up this year when Maddie (Canning) chose to step down with other commitments going on.
“I have done a bit of coaching in the past with junior sides, but this will be my debut year for A grade.
“I think it will just be getting used to things - there will be a few di erent players coming into the mix across the whole squad, so getting used to the team.
“Navigating life with three
young kids to get out there is probably the biggest challenge.
“I think we’ll just see what challenges come as we go. The Bulldogs have been in the premiership conversation for the past few years, competing hard with heavy-hitters Greta, Milawa and Bonnie Doon, and even defeating ag-winning sides. Despite their pedigree as a strong side, the club hasn’t featured in an A grade grand nal since 2014.
White said the goal for the season was to get as talented a group on the court as they could, with the club commencing their senior trials this week.
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