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FRIDAY, January 5, 2024
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Page 2
2023 IN REVIEW Pages 12, 13
STORMY DELUGES CAUSE FLASH FLOODS, DAMAGE
BATTLE TO LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
THUNDERSTORMS at around 4pm and 7pm on Tuesday dumped more rain on Wangaratta within three hours than the city usually sees for the entire month of January. Flash flooding in Rowan Street (pictured), closure of the Rowan Street underpass twice, rain innundation to homes and businesses, and many road closures saw emergency crews kept busy and a major clean-up this week. Stories pages 3, 6. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner
Sport
It’s short-term pain for 100 years’ gain Mayor y calls for p patience during g Green Street bridge g redevelopment p over next six months REDEVELOPMENT of the Green Street overpass will involve “six months’ worth of pain” for ultimate gain, according to Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees. Many residents’ thoughts are turning to the bridge project, being undertaken
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
by the Australian Rail Track Corporation, which will see the overpass close for six months from next week.
The imminent closure of one of the city’s main thoroughfares became more of a talking point on Tuesday, when thunderstorms and ensuing flooding forced the temporary closure of the city’s other key thoroughfare - the Rowan Street underpass
- twice within three and half hours. While the overpass’s initial closure date was advertised as Monday, January 8, an ARTC spokesman said contractor availability had now shifted the closure date to
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Wednesday, January 10. As part of Inland Rail works, the existing bridge will be demolished and the rail line lowered 2.8 metres to provide height clearance for the 2.4 metre variance in the double-stacked freight trains. “It will be great when it’s
done,” Cr Rees said. “It’s a major route, and this work will make it so much better. “It will be six months’ worth of pain to develop a new bridge we will have for the next 100 years.” ■ Continued page 5
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Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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Exceptional yarding brings $4.5m SOME of the finest cattle in the region tested the cattle market on Tuesday afternoon for Wangaratta’s Premier Angus Feature Weaner Sale. Despite a late downpour of rain during the outdoor section of the sale, spirits were far from dampened, with just over $4.5m traded at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange. Of the some 4900 head of cattle yarded, bids were met for steers at a tight line from $3.05/kg to $3.50/kg live weight on average, with heifers attracting around 80c/kg less than the steers, topping at an average of $2.60/kg for the 330-400kg range. Corcoran Parker Wangaratta cattle agent Reiley Murtagh said the sale presented exceptional lines of cattle which have been bred with extreme care over the past 12 months, with breeders eyes firmly set on this feature sale. “These are the tops of the drops, the best cattle you’ll nearly see all year,” he said. “It’s good for the buyers because their paying for the price of what they are, but going forward they’ve got an A grade steer.”
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
Best performers of the sale were some of the feature sellers from the Mansfield region, including vendor Rodda Manning, who brought along 750 head of steers as the feature seller, making no less than $3.35/kg on most of their pens. Anticipated competition from northern buyers was expected to drive prices beyond December peaks, which had picked up from a low of $3.49/kg carcass weight on the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator. Mr Murtagh said prices for the heavier line of steers were most consistent across the board. “The breeding heifers were a bit of a standout as well, the top end of your heifers, anywhere from 320kg up that are going to be anything of joining quality shortly, they were probably more sought after than your background heifer,” he said. “As long as quality was good, the heifers were selling very well.”
HAVING A LOOK: Moyhu locals Emma (left), Mark, Jorja and Josh Duffy visited the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange on Tuesday to take a glimpse of the quality offering of Angus cattle. INSET: Anna Bewley (left) from Bellaspur Angus with parents Stuart and Trisha Brewley and young Wyatt and Milly Sessions supporting some of their client vendors selling at the Angus weaner feature sale. PHOTOS: Bailey Zimmermann
Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Market Report, Tuesday January 2 Vendor Head/Breed STEERS SCOTT MA & JT P/L 23 ANGUS MERCIECA PASTORAL 24 ANGUS GRIFFORAN PAST CO 26 ANGUS SIMPSON AG & JE 19 ANGUS DAVILAK PAST CO 29 ANGUS DAVILAK PAST CO 29 ANGUS DAVILAK PAST CO 28 ANGUS FLEMMING NJ & NJ 7 ANGUS DKF HEYWOOD & SONS 24 ANGUS DKF HEYWOOD & SONS 31 ANGUS MCPHERSON K & P 22 ANGUS MCPHERSON K & P 1 ANGUS GORMAN JB & CA 13 MIXED RAE PASTORAL 7 ANGUS COWS Glenwood Park Angus 2 ANGUS Glenwood Park Angus 1 ANGUS HEIFERS SCOTT MA & JT P/L 24 ANGUS LOXLEY PAST 27 ANGUS WILLOWVALE 17 ANGUS HEYWOOD LS & SE 14 ANGUS MCPHERSON K & P, M & B 5 ANGUS DKF HEYWOOD & SONS 25 ANGUS DKF HEYWOOD & SONS 25 ANGUS MERCIECA PASTORAL 25 ANGUS CORRECTIONS VIC 12 ANGUS RAE PASTORAL 6 ANGUS
Avg. Wt. C/kg
Agency
430 414.38 394.04 388.95 363.79 371.9 364.46 415 416.88 379.19 399.09 399.09 414.62 425
1375 1325 1245 1290 1245 1245 1245 1300 1285 1220 1270 1270 1240 1280
CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER
785 785
1550 1740
CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER
399.58 338.15 335.83 422.14 380 318.46 322.6 335 345.83 417.5
1040 905 890 1100 950 920 920 895 960 1030
CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS CORCORAN PARKER
Mansfield producer happy to sell at Thursday sale By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN ANOTHER strong representation of the highest quality of the region’s cattle was drafted at the Wangaratta Premier Weaner All Breeds Cattle Sale on Thursday afternoon. Some 1900 head of cattle were yarded at the livestock exchange following the 4900 head of Angus cattle drawn on Tuesday’s sale. Corcoran Parker Wangaratta cattle agent Reiley Murtagh said the all breeds sale once again boasted a heavy representation of cattle drawn from the Mansfield region. “We’ve got a lot of our Mansfield branch sending a lot of cattle; they’re all very good breeders and everything is top notch quality again,” he said. Among the heavy Mansfield contingent of vendors was Tony Reardon, who owned the champion pen of 50 Hereford steers at an average of weight of 350kg. Totaling 100 head of Hereford steers at the sale with Glendan
CHAMPION VENDOR: Tony Reardon boasted the champion pen of hereford steers at the sale on Thursday, yarding 100 head from his Mansfield property. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann Park bloodlines, Mr Reardon said he has experienced an excellent season for his draft of calves, while also gauging 160mm of rainfall at his property since Christmas. “Normally I have them a little bit heavier but I’ve changed over the pollers, the horns were different bloodlines so it takes a while for it to all gel together,” he said. “You’ve got to be realistic, I’m hoping for something around $1100/head.
“We really need that $1500$1800/head to really pay for everything, but we’ve just got to take it, everyone else is suffering as well so you’ve got to be realistic.” Mr Reardon said he has begun selling at Wangaratta over the past two seasons after originally selling at Barnarwartha. • More details on Thursday’s sale will be in Monday’s Chronicle.
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 3
STORMY START TO YEAR
SES inundated with calls, minor damage reported BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE A landersonbyrne@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA SES crews were wading through more than 80 requests for assistance in less than 24 hours, since storms hit on Tuesday afternoon, before crews followed the storm trail to Benalla on Thursday morning to assist. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded 54.5mm of rainfall from Tuesday’s storms at the Wangaratta Airport gauge, which included a 37mm downpour from 7-7.30pm. Some residents from across the rural city reported up to 90ml of rain, more than double the bureau’s 44.6 mean average for Wangaratta in the entire month of January. Wangaratta SES unit controller Jess Zuber said the first call out was just after 4pm on Tuesday, with 30 jobs during the first downpour. “Most call outs were predominately trees down over roads, lots of water over roads and just a few buildings with minor damage,” she said. “We had some major roads like WangarattaWhitfield Road, Federation Way and out to Glenrowan that we know were cut with trees quite heavily.
HARD WORK: Crews worked into the night to get their job done.
WANGARATTA-WHITFIELD ROAD: Wangaratta SES unit volunteers had to clear a number of trees down on WangarattaWhitfield Road. PHOTOS: Wangaratta SES “In the second storm which hit around 7pm we had about 50 calls, predominately flash flooding potential to enter premises and water through rooves. “There was no significant damage but lots of minor damage with many shops and houses feeling it Wednesday morning.” The local SES unit reported on its Facebook page
that a total of 82 requests were made with 24 trees over roads, eight trees on houses or property, 18 buildings damaged and 30 flooding damage. “A huge shoutout to our five crews here as well as support from SES Chiltern Unit, Springhurst CFA, Eldorado, Glenrowan and Tarrawingee Fire Brigades,” Ms Zuber said.
Wangaratta SES advised members of the community to take care when travelling as water and debris remains on roads and never enter flood waters. Wangaratta dodged a bullet on Wednesday night, compared with Benalla which, despite also recording 54mm of rain, needed far more SES support. “We supported crews
Council clean-up crews continue the hard work By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE Rural City of Wangaratta council crews will continue to work hard to clear drains across the rural city in the aftermath of Tuesday afternoon’s successive storms. According to a council spokesperson the Rowan Street underpass - which flooded and was closed temporarily to traffic after both storm fronts - has
been repaired so that flooding is not long term. “The issue earlier this week was that the community was inundated with an unprecedented amount of rain in a short period of time which meant that many roads and spaces that wouldn’t usually flood, did so,” the spokesperson said. “This was also the case with the underpass.
“All roads that were closed due to debris have now been opened. “There is more clean-up of debris to take place over the coming weeks and days but spaces should be able to be used as intended. “There is a priority to secure fencing and clear access to private property. “Some larger trees may take longer to clear as we require larger equipment
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to complete these tasks. “The drainage crew are working hard to clear drains that have been clogged with top dress and debris to ensure they function prior to future storm events.” FLASH FLOOD: The Rowan Street underpass was temporarily flooded twice during Tuesday’s storms. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner
in Benalla all of Thursday, especially in Warrenbyane,” Ms Zuber said. “Benalla was quite severely affected, I’d say worse than what we saw in Wangaratta. “We’re definitely seeing a weather shift but we’re really lucky at Wangaratta in terms of being able to help out. “Benalla crews had been
TREES DOWN: Wangaratta SES made light work of a tree in Waldara. out all night so we could let their crews rest and we were also supported by Mansfield SES and a number of other agencies all working together which is great to see.” To report any storm or flooding damage, call 132 500. ■ PAGE 6: Businesses cleanup flood impact; sewage overflow into city creek
Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
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Saturday Max 33 Min 16 Mostly sunny Sunday
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Tuesday
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Last 72 hours
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NEWS TIPS
TRENDING TITLES: Edgar’s Books and News team leader Belinda Harrison dives into a year of local reading in 2023.
Local yarns top book list
Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Fax: 5721 9447
BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE
CONTACTS
landersonbyrne@ nemedia.com.au
POSTAL ADDRESS: 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0101 DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0139 Fax: 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.
Member
PHOTO: Leah Anderson-Byrne
IT seems Wangaratta booklovers were searching for a read that hits closer to home, with local authors, stories and people the top trend for 2023, according to local bookstore, Edgar’s Books and News. “It’s been a lot of local,” said communications team leader Belinda Harrison. “Local stories, local people, local connections and just good stories. “Crime was big as well as was a lot of military history and history in general. “Military history is usually pretty big but the local connection with books such as Back to Bangka by Georgina Banks and Make Tankers Ten - The History of the Wangaratta Fire Brigades Group added another layer of appeal as they’re very entrenched in the community. “Other popular ones which
Edgar’s Books and News Top 10 in 2023 1. The Indi Way (Voices for Indi) - local community and politics 2. Unheard Voices (Dawn Mauldon) - local story and family (Milawa/ Bobinawarrah) 3. Broken Bay (Margaret Hickey) - local author’s 3rd book 4. Make Tankers Ten (Wangaratta Fire Brigade) - local community story 5. The Voice to Parliament (Thomas Mayo & Kerry O’Brien) national politics 6. The Story Continues (Dustin Martin) - AFL star 7. Back to Bangka (Georgina Banks) - story of Cheshunt and other nurses killed at Bangka Island, WWII and the search for the truth of what happened 8. The Amazing Sam Kerr (James Knight) - soccer star 9. Fearless (Jelena Dokic) - tennis star and family violence survivor 10. Home on the Farm (Priddy Books) - board book for kids aren’t local have been Questions 7 by Richard Flanagan, Trent Dalton’s recent work Lola in the Mirror, and sporting biographies. “Manga, Japanese graphic novels, were also huge; we’re the only place in North East Victoria who sells this genre and it’s a great option for kids who don’t necessarily want to read much, but parents don’t want them just reading comics or staring at a screen.
“We have both adult and children’s titles and both proved popular last year.” Ms Harrison said children’s books increased in sales last year, especially with the recent release of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians television series reboot. “There was an increase in people buying books in general and certainly that’s what people have been gifting for Christmas,” she said.
“Kids books have still been really strong with lots of parents and grandparents coming in.” Another local aspect the Wangaratta community has been enjoying have been the 10 author events held by Edgar’s in 2023. “Some didn’t see a huge turnout due to timing with things like flooding, but our event in August; the Wangaratta Arts Council Literary Lunch with author Chris Hammer was really well attended,” Ms Harrison said. “The event we held for Back to Bangka went well with that local connection and Unheard Voices by Dawn Mouldon did a mini tour through Probus clubs and St John’s and out at Milawa, which saw around 140 people attend. “The feedback for all events was great; people love to hear these authors speak about their work and think it’s great they want to come to our area as well. “Lots of authors couldn’t do talks like this during COVID, when a number of their books came out, so they’re really appreciative of the opportunity too.”
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 5
Free fun in the sun
FREE Summer Fun Days conducted by the Wangaratta Baptist Church are back to entertain families this January. Following the success of last year’s series, the 2024 events will kick off on Wednesday, January 10 at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. There will be free entry to the pool for the whole community between 10am and 1pm on the day, as well as an inflatable zone, and a free sausage sizzle will run from 10am to 2pm. “We are passionate about bringing hope to our community, and in January - just like last year - we are doing that in a very practical way,” Pastor Aaron Wardle from Wangaratta Baptist Church said. “In the summer school holidays, it can often be hard to find things to do as a family, particularly things that are free, and so we are really pleased to be presenting these two free Summer Fun Days for our community.” Next week’s event will be followed on Wednesday, January 17 by activities in Apex Park, which will include a super slide, face-painting and a free sausage sizzle, running
from 10am to 2pm. “Last year we had more than 1000 people attend our Free Fun Day at the pool, and this year it looks like it will be another perfect day,” Pastor Aaron said. “We are also thankful to the Rural City of Wangaratta, which has been very supportive of us running these events again. “Our 2023 fun days are, in fact, a finalist for the Community Event of the Year in this year’s Rural City of Wangaratta Australia Day Awards, which we are thrilled about, because other people have recognised the value and contribution to the community that these events bring. “Support from our own church community, the Rural City of Wangaratta and other businesses such as Coles, who have been very generous in donating sausages and bread both last year and this year, helps make these events possible.” There is no need to book to attend the Free Summer Fun Days; children, teens and families are encouraged to just turn up on the day. Parents are responsible for their
By SIMONE KERWIN
CELEBRATING SUMMER: Josh (15) and Sarina (12) Wardle are looking forward to next week’s first Summer Fun Day conducted by the Wangaratta Baptist Church, which will be held at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre on Wednesday. PHOTO: Simone Kerwin children at all times. For more information
about the events, contact Pastor Aaron Wardle on 0415 721
590 or search for the events on Facebook.
Mayor calls for patience during bridge redevelopment ■ From page 1
The construction will see the bridge closed between the Tone Road intersection and Roy Street. During the works, access to Green Street will still be available from Rowan Street, with traffic to also be diverted along Sisely Avenue and Rowan Street. Traffic from the north will be instructed to take Reid, Rowan and Ryley Streets to
access Green Street. Other local roads will be open for access to key facilities on Green Street, such as Northeast Health Wangaratta and medical specialists. Pedestrians will be directed either to Norton Street and then the remaining railway overpass bridge off Docker Street, or along the One Mile Creek walking track.
Emergency vehicles will use the quickest route to the hospital, and motorists should move to the side of the road or stop if necessary so emergency vehicles with flashing lights and/or siren can pass. Ambulance Victoria has been working with ARTC Inland Rail to ensure it can continue to respond effectively to emergencies and serve the local
community during road closures. AV has said it does not expect the works to impact its operations and access to Northeast Health Wangaratta. Cr Rees urged locals to be patient while the works are taking place. “Over those busy times, especially when school goes back and it’s going to get even busier, people just need
to be super mindful and patient,” he said. “This is for the future, and the future will be much better - both for motorists and for pedestrians.” Cr Rees encouraged residents to consider whether they could walk or cycle rather than drive on occasions during the six-month construction process, to help ease the flow of traffic.
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THOSE keen to help revive the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues for 2024 are encouraged to attend a meeting on Tuesday evening. Two meetings have been held since the staging of what was billed as the festival’s ‘Last Hurrah’, with likeminded locals lending their support to the concept of continuing the event into the future. The next gathering will be held at The Railyard Wangaratta in Norton Street, with anyone interested in seeing the continuation of the festival encouraged and welcome to attend. There are plans among those who have attended previous meetings to transition to a new board at the festival’s annual general meeting, which will be held sometime early this year. Community support will be vital to this initiative, and can be expressed via Tuesday’s meeting, which will commence at 6pm at The Railyard.
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Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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STORMY START TO YEAR
Wet Wednesday for some local business owners BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE A landersonbyrne@ nemedia.com.au
BUSINESSES throughout Wangaratta spent their Wednesday mopping floors and drying salvaged stock following the extensive rainfall that inundated buildings on Tuesday afternoon and evening. Morris Bros Real Estate on Rowan Street saw almost 3cm of water flow through the back of the building, despite business owner Peter Morris cleaning the drains the day before. “I got called down from Albury at around 5pm on Tuesday as the admin staff told me the water was 30cm from our door,” he said. “I cleaned out the drain at the front of our building in the garden, which I asked council to put in when we moved in here in 2018, and I also cleaned the two drains out the back of the property which were blocked with tree debris and garden mulch. “Because the carpark is a retention basin it collects water, but the drains are meant to work properly.
CLOSE CALL: OAK FM’s Neil Barassi said there was, luckily, no damage to the fuse box.
CLEAN UP CREW: Morris Bros Real Estate staff Georgia Verdon and Grace McIntyre spent their Wednedsay morning mopping up floodwater. PHOTOS: Leah Anderson-Byrne “When one of our staff came in at 8am there was almost three centimetres of water through the back of the building, we were mopping it up until 9.30am. “Luckily most things in our storeroom are elevated so it’s just a couple of signs that have been damaged.” Ramsay Pharmacy on
Murphy Street had to let customers through the back door to collect prescriptions, to avoid the rain coming in through the roof and flooding near the front doors. Ramsay team lead North East Victoria, Jo Ellery, said customers needing anything further than prescriptions
were sent to the Ovens Street location. “When I came in Wednesday morning the front of the shop was flooded but we were still managing to look after customers with prescriptions,” she said. “I’ve been very lucky with tradespeople; we already had the floor guy in before 11am to remove water and a plumber on the roof mid-morning which was great. “We did have some stock damage but the girls were great on Tuesday and got as much as they could out of the way.” Out at Murdoch Road, OAK FM radio station was almost taken off the air when the power went out during the storm.
Presenter Grant Smith said he heard it go out with a “pop” while on air but the power was back on within half an hour. “I could hear the rain thundering on the roof but luckily it didn’t affect my program,” he said. “I did go out the front to check on things and water was coming in under the door and down from the outside wall over the electrical box. “I moved everything away and started mopping and put buckets down.” OAK FM station president, Neil Barassi, said the whole of Raymond Street, off Murdoch Road, was flooded. “Lucky for us we have an Uninterrupted Power Supply
(UPS) so if power goes out our radio transmission goes on for half an hour,” he said. “Our concern is damage to the electrical box in future rain events; we’ll have to get on the roof to check for blockages in the drain. “The only damage so far was to an amplifier we had plugged in near that corner.” Both Shelley’s Country Bakehouse and Wang’s Best Bakery were forced to close on Wednesday due to both stores being flooded with stormwater. The businesses Facebook pages thanked the community for their words of support and they were both back open on Thursday.
Sewer system overflows into city’s creek following storm By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE NORTH East Water (NEW) have been managing several sewage spills in Wangaratta this week following heavy rain in the region on Tuesday. Storm water infiltration into the sewer system caused spills at Rattray Avenue, Vincent Road, Swan Street and Bronmar Street which have entered the nearby One Mile Creek. The notice on the organisation’s website explained the sewer system is designed to overflow in major storm events, otherwise sewage could back-up into connected properties.
CAUTION: North East Water is warning people to stay clear of water in the One Mile Creek due to sewage overflow. NEW said it has notified the Environment Protection Authority, and warning signs where erected where appropriate. It also said each area has been cleaned and disinfect-
ed, with water samples to be collected from One Mile Creek for analysis. As a precaution , NEW is advising people to avoid contact with creek water for several days.
Horses outrun Tuesday storms By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE LOCAL punters were amazingly able to get in almost a full afternoon of racing before the almost biblical rain event hit the Wangaratta Turf Club Family Race Day. Wangaratta Turf Club chief executive officer Sean Barrett said six of the eight races were out of the way before the stormfront caused any problems after 4pm on Tuesday. “We still managed to get through the full card which was a testament to the drainage works that the club and the
industry did over the winter period,” he said. “Normally, with that amount of rain, you wouldn’t get back out to run those last two races but the track held up in outstanding fashion and we got through the full card. “Thankfully, the rain held off until the later part of the day, around 4pm, which meant the families and kids on course were able to have a great day out with all the entertainment and so forth, and shut things off a little early. “It was great to get through the whole day of racing.
“We had a really good crowd, particularly given the weather forecast – we know there would be a good chance we’d get storms at some part of the day, but for those who turned out, the entertainment on course was well-utilised, very busy throughout the day.” The club has two more events this month, with Thursday Races to be held on Thursday, January 11 and the Australia Day Eve Races will be held on January 25. For more information go to https://country.racing.com/ wangaratta.
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 7
Pilot program in Ovens River to teach children water safety BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au
PRACTICAL water safety skills in a river setting will be the focus of a week-long Bush Nippers pilot program kicking off in Wangaratta on Monday. The Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC) in partnership with Lifesaving Victoria have been working tirelessly to prepare the program. According to WSAC manager, Sonya Dalgliesh, around 35 children have already signed up for the program and they are hoping for more. “We would like to double that, if we had 70 we would have a really engaged and active program because the idea is to get a really good spread of ages,” she said. The program will teach children water safety lessons at Sydney beach on the Ovens River. Participants will learn how to put on a life jacket, how to float in water, call for help, read signs, communicate with adults and how to rescue others with resources around them. “We teach them through playing water games and
WATER SAFETY: Zac Essex, Georgia Long, Merrill Smith, Claude from Lifesaving Victoria, Melissa Niklaus, Grace Kerwin and Alexander Young are looking forward to sharing water safety lessons at the Bush Nippers program. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling having fun to ensure the kids are comfortable in all depths of water,” Ms Dalgliesh said. At the program there will be 10 staff from the WSAC, two additional supervisors and two lifesavers from Lifesaving Victoria who have been training for the program. “It’s all about training the staff to become teachers of water safety both in the
water and on land,” Ms Dalgliesh said. “It’s giving the staff the skills to pass on knowledge to children for water rescues, water games, land games, how to call for help for you or someone else.” Ms Dalgliesh said Lifesaving Victoria has been an extremely helpful partner in preparation for the event and hopes to work
with them in the future to provide unique water safety programs in the future. “Lifesaving Victoria provided support and education so that we can resuscitate and provide CPR at any time to any member of the public who’s in trouble,” she said. “I’m looking forward to growing the partnership with Lifesaving Victoria so Wangaratta can host more
Bush Nippers into the future. “This is a pilot program for us, so if it’s successful then we’ll be able to offer more going into future summers.” All children under the age of 14 are invited to come along to participate in the program. “It’s a fantastic and fun school holiday activity,” Ms Dalgliesh said. “It actively educates chil-
dren and families how to be safe and enjoy open water ways and also will provide lifelong water safety learnings.” Ms Dalgliesh also encouraged other members of the community to have a look and learn more about the program. “Even if you’re not participating, if you’re curious about it you’re more than welcome to come down, have a look and have a conversation and see what the program is about,” she said. The staff will conduct daily river checks at the Sydney Beaches to ensure the water is safe to swim in. “We will have 10 staff go in and check the safety of the river and if, for example, the river was up we would move them to the outdoor pool,” she said. Bush Nippers is a five day program that will begin on January 8 with daily sessions at 9am to 10.30am or 11am to 12.30am until January 12 for $120 or $85 with concession. Children will also be provided with a Nipper cap and rashie. For more information or to book visit https://wsac. perfectgym.com.au/clientportal2/#/Login or contact the WSAC.
D C D E N TA L C L I N I C P U R P O S E D E S I G N E D FA C I L I T Y LO C A L LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D Our team of experienced Dentists & Hygienist are here to offer our patients the highest calibre of professional oral health care and to service all of your dental needs.
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Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
Stormy weather tests the best of us THIS week’s sudden storms across the rural city and beyond have again tested thousands of people in their path. While summer rain is not a rare occurrence, the speed, intensity and unpredictability of recent weather events have caught most by surprise. There are communities across the country, from North East Victoria to South East Queensland, that have barely recovered from one major flooding event who find themselves submerged again. Repeatedly we hear the same stunned responses - “We haven’t seen anything like it”. Euroa alone has had five major power failures since November mainly caused by weather events, which highlights a nationwide problem; that much of our urban infrastructure was not designed for the type of extreme weather we are experiencing more and more often. The Bureau of Meteorology came under fire over its lack of accuracy during the Queensland storms, forecasting Cyclone Jasper okay but not predicting the intensity of the rainfall that followed in its wake. It appears the bureau’s modelling on how weather patterns behave could also be going out of date so it’s wise to remember that forecasts are just that. Anyone thinking they can accurately predict Mother Nature’s behaviour within a specific locale at a specific time half a day in advance is kidding themselves. Thankfully we have our SES always at the ready to jump in and attend the worst hit areas, clearing roads and fallen trees, unblocking drains, and doing what they can to help us when we have nowhere else to turn. Remember that when it comes time to make a donation or even put yourself forward as a volunteer - they need our support more than ever.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
6 Table-shaped hill 9 Cult 11 Part of a target 14 Mortise insert 15 Wash lightly 17 Musical instruments 18 String of phrases 19 Mechanical man 22 Not cleared up 24 Concise 25 Leaves off 27 Ship-worm 28 Temperature unit 30 Power of rejecting 32 Playthings 35 Prefix - three
SOLUTION S D E A L E R M L I B E L O E S T E R N C A P T I V E S M E R I T N E C T A R C D E T O N A T E I B E L N U N C U R E D T O R D O N S E R O S T E E D E N S E N E B O V E R S E E S O T O T T E R S G I L L S O T E E T E R S V S Y N O D R E T H E R S O L I V E S D
ACROSS 2 Trader 7 Written accusation 8 Chemical compound 10 Kept in bondage 12 Worth 13 Delicious beverage 16 Explode 18 Made well 20 Unit of noise intensity 21 Sister 23 Love god 24 Hill 25 Puts on 26 Beak 27 Golf mound 28 Thick 29 Superintends 31 Aquatic fish-eating animals 33 Breathing organs 34 Seesaws 36 Church council 37 Anaesthetic 38 Oily fruit DOWN 1 Office without work 2 Determines 3 Made exultant 4 Fate 5 Make known
FACEBOOK users this week commented on our weekly poll which asked users: ‘Do you believe in the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions?’
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Ash Shearer: Much like dealing with a killer hangover and swearing to never drink again, you will drink again Denise Gay: I make them but break them on January 1st. Timothy Simpson: Been making and breaking the same resolutions for 25 years.
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Facebook users also
commented on Wangaratta High School’s Sandy Newman, who received a School Sport Victoria recognition of service award as she stepped down after 25 years as the school’s sport coordinator, entering semiretirement later this year.
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Sue Anderson: Congratulations Sandy, what a legacy. You have inspired so many people. Jody Mortison: What an amazing lady and such an inspiration. Congratulations
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Brian Bev O’Flynn: Congratulations Sandy still remember my trip to Wodonga. What a great recruitment! Nic M-k: Congrats Newmo! Well deserved. What an inspiration you are! Sarah Hillier: Congrats Newmo!! The absolute best with so many amazing memories along the way. Enjoy retirement think you absolutely deserved it after dealing with us all over the years Cheryl Kreltszheim: Congrats Newms!! An absolute
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legend!! Thanks for all you did for my kids, many special memories Debbie Brown: Newmo!!! What a Legend!!! I’m So Glad All My Kids Got To Have You As Their PE Teacher, Mentor & Friend For Life!!! Congratulations On Your Amazing Career, The Kids Just Loved You, Actually They Gravitated Towards You, Because You Were So Chill & Approachable. Good Luck With Whatever is in Your Future, From All Us Browns xx
•
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Bring back free milk, fruit in schools I TOO am 87 years old and have similar thoughts about growing up to Brian Fox (Wangaratta Chronicle letters, Friday, December 29). Country folks fared better than we Melburnians during the war years, when rationing meant we had to skimp and save and didn’t have luxuries like farm produce and meat, butter and cream at the bottom of the garden. But if Mr Fox wishes to improve the health of our grandchildren, bring back the free milk and fruit that Victorians schoolchildren enjoyed in the early 1960s. Nothing will be achieved by lowering the voting age. We need governments to have some sort of subsidies for schools to provide breakfast for those who are missing out. Some primary schools have great gardens, and it would not be too hard for them to provide a midday meal for those in need. But then I suppose the answer will be that we need a commercial licence to cook meals for students. So, the free milk and fruit could be the solution. Worth thinking about. Ken J Clarke OAM JP, Wangaratta
Humankind not to blame for nature THE flooding in Queensland has now resulted in some sort of enquiry into how BOM (Bureau of Meteorology) got it so wrong. It’s actually staring us all in the face. This is due to the already dubious climate change modelling being totally destroyed by the underwater eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano on January 15, 2022. Very little is known about underwater volcanoes, which are the deadliest of them all and this one has rewritten the “Volcanic index”. Never have we recorded the happenings of a volcano this big and of its type, ever. The statistics are staggering: It launched something in the order of 50 million tonnes plus, of water into the stratosphere, not including the dust and sulphur dioxide. The underwater volcano works the reverse of land-based ones. The later normally cause global cooling, whereas the undersea one causes global warming and changes the entire climate,
Which way do you face in the shower - towards the taps or away from the taps?
A GENERATIONAL SALE: Bryan Bourke (left) with grandsons Jarvis and Huxley and wife Beryl were down at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange on Thursday from Kiewa to witness the sale of Bryan’s 30 head of Charolais steers during a bumper week of feature sales. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann making man’s efforts look pathetic. This is not helped by the large number of other land-based volcanoes, actively erupting currently. Aside from Man: Nature is the most dangerous thing on offer for destruction. Nature’s contribution recently to greenhouse gasses etc, has been staggering. All of that world climate changing and endangering buildup of water and sulphur dioxide injected into the stratosphere will cause it to heat and hold even more water. It will likely result in never before witnessed, torrential rain, and completely changing terrestrial weather phenomena. Unfortunately, the East Coast of Australia and the Pacific is right in the firing line. The effects of this volcano may go on for decades, as did the effects of some of the bigger terrestrial ones over many centuries, making a mockery of all current climate change modelling. The reason that BOM’s modelling never saw what Nature had in store, was not dropping the ball, as they never had one to drop in the first place. Marc Chick, Wangandary
POLL RESULTS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS Do you believe in the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions?
27
5 22 voyteessteto noon
Yes
No
rday
THIS WEEK Which way do you face in the shower - towards the taps or away from the taps?
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.
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 9
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. FACEBOOK users this week commented on how much rain they received in the storms earlier this week.
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Michelle Stone: 90ml in the gauge from both down pours, Vincent Rd. Shain Evans: Michelle Stone good effort. Paul Fox: Michelle Stone I had 86 mm. Michelle Tremellen: We had 80 ml in Nolan Street Wangaratta. Linda Penney: 64ml west end..
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Nicholas Brett: Darian Rose Brett definitely a bit moist. Ray Hargreaves: 55 ml @ Waldara Drive estate. Leanne De La Rue: 83.5ml Eldorado/Londrigan. Sally Peacock: Leanne De La Rue we got 63 at Londrigan. It was wild! Alli Baker: 55ml whorouly. Bec Hayward: I had 48ml Glenrowan rd not far from airport. Glenn Daws: Total 52 mls Benalla. Micaeli Kara Gasperotti:
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41mm at East Wangaratta. Roger Neate: 88ml Wangaratta West. Trevor Dawson: 72mm in Ryan Ave according to my rain guage. Takeshi Covac: 87mm all up cribbs rd. Julian Savery: 76 mm Dockers Plains. 300 mph winds. Or felt like it. Hanny Bongers: O’Keeffe street wangaratta gauge reads 61.2mm. Bridie Graham: 38mm in Warby Springs.
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Greg Brown: 75 ml at racecourse. Alex Dupuis: 68mm parfitt road. Kathy Semmens: 80mm Clarke’s Lane area. Donovan Jacka: If anyone is interested, lots of people use the Ecowit system and you can look at lots of different weather stations. www.ecowitt.net I am not sure if you have to register to look at each station. But it’s free and a massive time waster. 86mm in East Tarrawingee. 64.2mm between 7.20 and 8.20.
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Tweet Dona McQueen @DonaMcqueen
X USERS this week tweeted about the horse races and storms.
marc_bongers_photographer
Awesome evening catching some tunes @vinehotelwangaratta with friends for New Year’s Eve
Big storm just hitting Wangaratta races
Robert Geeves @robert_geeves Just got finished being smashed here in Wangaratta too. Few trees down. Heard was pretty bad in Melbourne north. Our home near Werribee just got heavy ish rain. Lisa Brassington@AgPeriUrban They closed Greta Road, and still is. They said winds hit 104km/h in Wangaratta, in northern Victoria. Brad @bjfooty Couple of lightning bolts in the distance during that Wangaratta race. It’s not far away.
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GREEN STREET BRIDGE DETOUR Pedestrian detour A
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SHOPFRONT CLOSURE Our shopfront is closed and will reopen on Thursday 18 January 2024 Get in touch or book an appointment by:
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During construction detours will be in place for both vehicles and pedestrians. Vehicles will be detoured via Sisely Avenue or Rowan Street, and pedestrians via One Mile Creek bike path or Docker Street footbridge.
Road closed
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To enable the safe clearance of double-stacked freight trains, we’re replacing the existing bridge with a new bridge in the same location.
WANGARATTA DETOUR MAP
Phillips
Green Street bridge will close from Monday 8 January for approximately six months until Inland Rail works are safely completed.
Green Street bridge Northeast Health Wangaratta Sisely Avenue Level Crossing Wangaratta Station Wareena Park
victoriaprojects@artc.com.au
inlandrail.com.au/b2a
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WHAT’S ON AROUND WANGARATTA Museum exhibition in Bainz Gallery
Ricki Wood live at The Vine Hotel
THE Wangaratta Historical Society invites the community to step back in time with their exhibition titled “Museum@Bainz” on display in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library. The exhibition includes reproduced prints taken from the valuable glass slides which are just a small part of the museum’s collection, offering a fascinating insight into Wangaratta’s past. It is open throughout January.
THE Vine Hotel are hosting a family friendly rock event featuring Ricki Wood on Sunday, January 14 from 2pm to 5pm. Ricki Wood will be performing his own original music that takes inspiration from folk, country, blues and rock genres focusing on his life journey. For more information visit https:// www.thevinehotel.net.au/livemusic
Woolshed Road at Wangaratta Art Gallery AN exhibition titled Woolshed Road features a series of works by Nina Machielese Hunt inspired by her immediate environment, living and working on Woolshed Road just outside of Wangaratta. The work featured in the current exhibition at the Wangaratta Art Gallery evokes a sense of place and memory through exploring the atmospheric misty mornings of the cooler months to the bright yellows and browns of summer. The exhibition runs until February 28.
King River Brewery live music WHITFIELD’s King River Brewery has a range of upcoming music performances to kick off the new year.
Beauty & Fear at Wangaratta Art Gallery
COMMUNITY MARKET RETURNS: The Wangaratta Community Market is coming back for the first time this year. The market will take place every Sunday morning at Moore Than Swimming in the grass area with something for everyone including handcrafted items, plants, socks, second hand books, food stalls and more. The next market is this Sunday from 8am to 1pm. The performances will take place in the beer garden where visitors can enjoy delicious beer and food while enjoying live music from 2pm to 5pm. This weekend the brewery will have performances from Pat Westwood today, Dean Haitani tomorrow and Jeff Cabalar on Sunday.
Wangaratta Farmers Market
Moyhu Lions Country Market
THE Wangaratta Farmers Market features a wide range of locally grown, sourced and made produce. The market takes place monthly at the Holy Trinity Gardens and the next market will take place on Saturday, January 13 from 8am to 12pm.
THE Moyhu Lions Country Market features a wide range of stalls for everyone to enjoy . It takes place at the Moyhu Lions Park and the next market will be on Saturday, January 20 from 8am to 12pm.
AN exhibition called Beauty & Fear bringing together recent work by artists Robert Hirschmann and Andy Pye - who share a profound connection with North East Victoria and its landscape - is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Together, the artists demonstrate their deep affinity for the natural world - the mountains, boulders, waterfalls, and birdlife captured in Andy Pye’s vibrant paintings on canvas and board, or the night sky lit and framed by an iridescent moon in Robert Hirschmann’s gestural paintings and drawings. The exhibition runs until February 25.
sportsman night WFNC Club Rooms - Norm Minns Oval, Wangaratta, VIC
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 11
Christmas Eve rescue on remote track By BRODIE EVERIST
LOTS TO DO: The Thapa family (from left) Alyssa, Jag, Alivya and Genisha, were pleased to find more than “just a picnic spot” on their way through to Sydney, stopping over at the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub in Glenrowan. PHOTO: Leah Anderson-Byrne
Visitors drawn to our regional attractions LOCAL tourism is back to booming following a slow start over Christmas when the rain kept many people indoors. In Glenrowan, Kate’s Cottage owner Michelle Coad said visitor numbers have been higher but bookings remain consistent. “It’s hard to gauge for us due to walk-ins but it has been higher in our visitors than last year and we’ve certainly had a lot of people through in the last few days,” she said. “Bus tour bookings are consistent with this time last year which is great.” Glenrowan’s latest attraction - the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub which opened last September - has also been a popular drawcard. Rural City of Wangaratta acting marketing and communications specialist, Elisha Naish, said council’s visitor
BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE A landersonbyrne@ nemedia.com.au
services team welcomed 3500 visitors through the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub and kiosk in the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Conference Centre over the Christmas period. “The Ned Kelly hub is seeing more than 500 people visit each day, with more than 650 on Thursday so we’re definitely seeing an increase in tourism there,” Ms Naish said. “They’re pleased they decided to stay open alongside the other Glenrowan businesses and are seeing the benefits of that over this period; it’s evident it’s a popular centre. “There’s now a donation box for those who go through, rather than an entry fee, and we’ve found some people are
paying more than the entry on their way out because they think it’s amazing. “We’re also seeing an increase in visitors staying for multiple days who are looking for things to do around the region. “They’re getting information on activities and destinations in the King Valley and even further out which is great for the region as a whole.” In the King Valley, Natalie Pizzini from Pizzini Wines and Mountain View Hotel said while rain had impacted patronage on Boxing Day, there were certainly large numbers of campers in the valley. “Caravan parks and camping sites were fuller last Thursday compared to the Wednesday and Pizzini also had a lovely Thursday, after being closed for Christmas and Boxing Day, but was still 25 per
cent down on previous years. “There seems to be good number of cars on the road travelling towards Lake William Hovel and we were expecting a doubling of visitors through the cellar door space over last weekend through to Monday. “There are still vacancies in accommodation throughout the valley but we’re seeing a trend in people staying close to home this year so I think we’ll see bookings come in last minute. “In the last month a number of local businesses received awards for excellence in tourism and that’s also what will put us in good stead in coming months.” Gentle Annie Caravan and Camping Reserve manager Petra Seebacher said the sites have been busy but not completely booked out, due to partial
flooding of the grounds. “Despite the flooding, people have given us great support and we’ve had lots of our repeat customers,” she said. “We’ve seen pretty steady numbers and there are still a few booking online so we’ll see more coming in.” In Wangaratta, Painter’s Island Caravan Park manager, Jaclyn Guerin, said things have been very good over the festive period. “We’re very busy and we’ve definitely seen an increase in numbers compared to previous years,” she said. “There seems to be lots of people travelling around and most of our guests are staying between five to seven days over the Christmas and New Year period. “People have been enjoying sightseeing in the area and getting out into the region which is great.”
THE Myrtleford SES rescued stranded campers early Christmas Eve following a four-wheel drive rollover on a remote bush track near Rose River. According to Myrtleford SES controller David Coates, three men became stranded when one of their two fourwheel drives rolled onto its side after one of the drivers steered up an embankment on McCready Track. He said no-one was injured, however, the upright four-wheel drive was unable to pass the rolled car, leaving the group trapped on the dead-end track. Mr Coates said they contacted police by making an SOS satellite call on their phone, and police asked SES for assistance. He said the SES were contacted at around 1am, and it took around two hours to reach the campers, with around an hour of travel traversing 20 kilometres of rough bush track. The SES then winched the rolled four-wheel drive aside, allowing the three Wangaratta residents to drive past.
Harrietville market on this Sunday By BRODIE EVERIST THE Harrietville Bush Market returns this Sunday with more than 50 stalls at the picturesque Tavare Park, starting from 8:30am and running until 1pm. According to Harrietville Historical Society president Robyn Downey, the market will feature an interesting mix of stalls, including food vendors, craft stalls and plant and book sellers. For entertainment, the market will feature the house vibes of DJ Beauy. Ms Downey said the traditional CFA demonstration will allow people to try out the hose and the CFA will also hold raffle. She said the market is a major fundraiser for the Harrietville Museum.
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Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
July Monday, July 3 Passengers get onboard HOPES of additional V/Line weekend train services being permanently added to the Albury line have been buoyed by strong patronage of new services being trialled during July and August. Responding to extra demand for train travel sparked by cheaper fares, V/Line on the weekend added two new services - on Saturday departing Albury at 9.05am, arriving at Southern Cross at 12.55pm, and a Sunday service departing Southern Cross at 2.33pm, arriving in Albury at 6.16pm.
Wednesday, July 5 Wareena Park limbo WHILE there are no funding applications currently lodged for the project, development of Wangaratta’s Wareena Park area remains one of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s 13 advocacy priorities. Marcus Goonan, Rural City of Wangaratta director community and infrastructure, stressed that external funding would be required to complete the “transformational” project, which was adopted by council in mid-2020.
Friday, July 7 Travel turmoil V/LINE is continuing to review its booking and reservations policies for long-distance commuters, as some train passengers are still being forced to stand or create makeshift seating on some Albury services. In the wake of increased demand as a direct result of the State Government’s cheaper fares initiative introduced earlier this year, V/Line introduced two new services at the weekend, which will continue on a trial-basis throughout the remainder of the month and into August.
Monday, July 10 Safety concerns ROAD safety and the safety of personal possessions are among the local community’s biggest concerns, according to an in-depth police survey initiative. Local residents were among more than 11,000 across the state who took part in Victoria Police’s recent community sentiment survey, with Wangaratta and Wodonga residents also highlighting drug and alcohol-related offending and safety in public places as key concerns.
Lenny ENCOUNTER: to WILDLIFE rapt re we er op Co White and Noah um the blue-tongue leg check out Bubb e Animals of Oz wildlife th lizard as part of Friday. Wangaratta on ing presentation in everyth d re tu fea ich wh The show, part of to spiders, was from possums . ns tio ra leb ce NAIDOC Week Zimmermann PHOTO: Bailey
Wednesday, W We dnesd dnes day, July 12 ‘Obscene’ speed A MOTORIST who reached just shy of 150kph in his Maserati coupe while exiting the township of Everton earlier this year has been told his driving behaviour was “obscene” and placed other road users at serious risk of death. The 39-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, pleading guilty to driving in a manner dangerous after he accelerated to a speed of 146kph while driving north along the Great Alpine Road around 3pm on May 2.
Friday, July 14 For-ward change PROPOSED new electoral structures for the Rural City of Wangaratta council have been welcomed by acting mayor Cr Harry Bussell, who believes the options are “not that much different” to the rural city’s existing electoral structure. The changes will see seven singlecouncillor wards from next year’s October election, with the three existing singlecouncillor rural wards to be renamed and the four-councillor City Ward to be divided into stand-alone wards.
Monday, July 17 Gap in the roads WANGARATTA Council will call for additional federal funding to address a road network “shortfall” which has only been exacerbated by recent extreme weather events. The Rural City of Wangaratta (RCoW) will be one of seven local councils attending a federal inquiry in Wodonga today, in order to engage directly with the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport, of which Independent Indi MP Helen Haines is a member.
Wednesday, July 19 More trees axed A SERIES of falling tree events in Wangaratta’s Merriwa Park has triggered the planned removal of up to a dozen “high to extreme risk” gum trees from the area.
wangarattachronicle.com.au
F Four large gum trees have fallen in the park since September last year with floo flooding in the park last month prompting its cclosure until problem trees are removed and the area is classified as safe.
Friday, F r July 21 Fatal collision Fa MAJOR Collision police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding a crash near Killawarra which claimed the life of a 60-year-old Yarrawonga woman on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services were called to Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road near Arnott Road shortly after 2pm, following reports of a three-car collision, and found the sole occupant of a vehicle deceased at the scene.
Monday, July 24 $3m netball dream on way THE State Government has confirmed its $3 million election commitment to upgrade Wangaratta’s netball courts at the HP Barr Reserve will be available for council during this 2023/24 financial year. Attorney General and MP for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes visited Wangaratta last November to promise the funding which will look at renovating the existing clubhouse and change rooms as well as a resurfacing and reconfiguration of the ageing bitumen courts.
Wednesday, July 26 Digital hub to reopen WANGARATTA Digital Hub will reopen on Tuesday, August 15, as the next step in an 18-month sustainable operating model project being overseen by the Rural City of Wangaratta. The hub, situated to the left of the Wangaratta Library entrance in Docker Street, closed last year after reaching the end of its three-year State Governmentfunded pilot phase.
Friday, July 28 Creative precinct plan is forging ahead STAGE two of the $20m Wangaratta Creative Precinct on Ovens Street has been activated with the awarding of a contract to Sibling Architecture. At the July council meeting on Tuesday councillors voted to award the Creative Precinct Detailed Design contract, at a tender price of $1,129,461.
Monday, July 31 Microchip, register pets to avoid delays in return THE welfare of animals travelling to Albury has been one of the major concerns for pet owners following Wangaratta council’s new contract with Albury Animal Care Centre. Council cut ties with RSPCA Wangaratta as it sought a better value for money deal with the Albury centre to manage the unhoused animals from Wangaratta for the next two years.
August Wednesday, August 2 Max Parkinson’s Place is opened WANGARATTA’S affordable housing shortage has slightly abated, with 13 new units now available at the former Max Parkinson Lodge site on Sadler Street. The social housing development was made possible by the $4.25 million philanthropic contribution by the Peter and Lyndy White Foundation and offers a new beginning for people seeking secure housing.
Friday, August 4 Tower green light WORKS on the $5.459 million Ned Kelly viewing tower will be completed in time for it’s scheduled opening this month, after a Supreme Court judge rejected a bid by a relative of the infamous bushranger to cease works on the project. A newly built tower at Glenrowan’s Lions Park, with the help of $3.5m in State Government funding, will provide an experience for visitors, allowing them to learn about the history connected to the capture of the Kelly Gang in 1880.
Monday, August 7 Green growth WANGARATTA’S Organics Processing Facility has the green light to double its capacity. Rural City of Wangaratta council was notified last week that it had been successful in its application to the Environmental Protection Authority to amend its license to increase capacity from 5200 tonnes to 12,000 tonnes per year.
SKY’S THE LIMIT: BeyondHousing CEO Ce lia Adams (left), Peter, Lyndy and Lucind a White, and Rural City of Wangaratt a Ma Rees were impressed with yor Dean the complete townhouses. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Wednes Wednesday, Wedn esda day, A day August ugus ug ust us st 9 Roundabout crash prompts calls for care A DRIVER has escaped injury after their vehicle crashed through a Swan Street fence on Tuesday morning, after being hit by a vehicle failing to give way through the Rowan Street roundabout. Senior Constable Matt Jones of Wangaratta police said the driver of a Toyota Kluger, which had been travelling south along Swan Street, was “shook up” after careening through a residential fence south of the roundabout, with the vehicle expected to be written off.
Friday, August 11 Events jackpot THE rural city is set to cash in on an economic boost on water and land, with two major state sporting events this weekend. Nearly 700 participants overall are expected to make their way to Wangaratta and surrounding areas for the Victorian Country Short Course Swimming Championships and the state senior and junior cycling time trials and road race championships.
Monday, August 14 Fight for “risky” trees TWO conflicting risk assessment reports delivering alternative fates for 10 red gum trees at Merriwa Park have been questioned by concerned residents. It’s the latest council assessment completed in July that has marked 10 trees for removal that Wangaratta residents Claire Russell and Ann Ryan question as it differs greatly to an external qualified tree risk assessment (QTRA), delivered last November.
Wednesday, August 16 Showtime nears AS blossom starts to decorate the rural city’s trees and add a scent of spring to the air, thoughts turn to the arrival of warmer weather - and with that comes full-blown preparation for the Wangaratta Show. The traditional event returned to delight crowds last October after a two-year COVID-induced hiatus - the first years the show had been unable to be held since World War 2.
THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 13
wangarattachronicle.com.au
Friday, August 18 Still seeking justice for Kath Bergamin THE brother of Wangaratta woman Kath Bergamin, who disappeared and was “unlawfully killed” 21 years ago today, believes it’s time authorities pursue any suspects through the courts in a final bid for justice for his sister. Roger Russell, along with his 95-yearold mother Margaret, want Victoria Police and the Office of Public Prosecutions to charge the person or persons they believe are responsible for Kath’s disappearance and death.
Monday, August 21 Kelly country boon GLENROWAN’S brand new $5.459m Ned Kelly Discovery Hub expects to attract a further 20,000 tourists to the township each year, in a major boon for local businesses and the wider region, according to Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees. The Ned Kelly tower was officially launched by Cr Rees and council chief executive officer Brendan McGrath on Friday, with Attorney-General and Northern Victoria MP Jaclyn Symes on hand to cut the ribbon ahead of the building’s formal public opening on September 16.
Wednesday, August 23 Jazz festival final hurrah THIS year’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues looks set to be the last. After more than 30 years of the event being staged in the rural city, its current volunteer board has made the decision to wind up operations after it presents a final, reduced event in November. The festival returned to a live format last year, after two years of COVID-enforced online iterations and a cancelled event in 2019, and organisers say it returned a positive balance sheet in 2022.
Friday, August 25 Look to the future IT’S time to move on from discussions about the old days of Reid Street, and to look to the future in terms of major events with the potential to succeed the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, according to Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees. Jazz festival chair Dave Fuller announced this week that this year’s event would be the current format’s ‘last hurrah’, with financial constraints, uncertainty
Prosperity
ONE LAST TIME: Thando performs with Horns of Leroy during the 2022 Wangaratta Fes tival of Jazz and Blues. This year’s festival will be the last in its current form at. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
festivals, and diminished around music festivals board and volunteer resources cited as reasons for the board’s decision to wind up operations.
Monday, August 28 Tarra tower closer A NEW 40-metre 4G and 5G mobile base station will be installed near Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve once a planning application is approved by the Rural City of Wangaratta. Amlitel, which is part of the Telstra group, plans to submit a planning permit application to council in the coming days for the telecommunications facility comprising a 40m monopole, 6-panel antennas and associated equipment at 10 Nolan Lane (near the reserve).
Wednesday, August 30 Food drive to meet a growing demand A FOOD drive will kick off this Friday to help address the growing local demand from local families and individuals as they struggle with the high cost of living. Wangaratta Motor Group will launch the food drive aimed at providing essential support to those who are doing it tough in our community.
September Friday, September 1 WSAC rises from ashes post-COVID IT’S been a rocky road for Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC) since council took over from the YMCA, greatly due to the fallout from the pandemic, but real shifts in support from the community are rewriting the script from a horror story to one that paints a more glorifying picture. Financially, the centre has run at a sizable loss, with 2021-22 revenue falling $1.56 million short of and forecast income of $3.27m, while last financial year there was $2.19m in revenue, $1.71m below budget.
E Edwards Street/Phillipson Street campus ov o over the next five years. WHS executive principal Dave Armstrong said the school was one of A more than 50 across Victoria which had m been funded to undertake the consultative be and preparative work required to plan for an future upgrades. fu
Sunday afternoon, which saw almost 100 firefighters turn out in response. The asbestos-filled building burned for almost five hours, causing severe damage to large sections of the interior, exterior and roof of the abandoned school, after smoke was first seen emanating from the area around 2.30pm.
Wednesday, September 6 Discontent flows in valley
Friday, September 15 Scammed $25K
LANDHOLDERS whose properties have been damaged by flooding in the King River, exacerbated by a build-up of debris, have called on the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) to take urgent action. A dozen land owners whose properties front the King River between Fosangs Lane and Gentle Annie Lane in Whitfield have incurred repeated damage to paddocks, fencing and infrastructure from flooding as debris remains uncleared from previous flood events and tonnes of gravel piles up, pushing the river deeper into their properties.
WANGARATTA Men’s Shed members have been rocked to their foundations after being scammed out of $25,000 last week. The majority of the money had been raised by Men’s Shed members over several years along with a $10,000 grant through Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines’ office to enable a major upgrade of facilities for the increasing number of members.
Friday, September 8 Shots fired GUNSHOTS at a Dixon Street residence are believed to have been targeted, as police continue to investigate the alleged drive-by shooting in Wangaratta yesterday morning. A police spokesperson said officers were investigating following reports two shots were fired at a vehicle and garage around 4am by unknown offenders, who were believed to have been driving along the road.
Monday, September 11 Where to now? DEVASTATION is the word the mother of year 11 student Archy Cohalan used after they found out The Academy, an elite sports course, would come to an end next month. The Cohalan family put their lives on hold last year and moved from Baranduda to Wangaratta so Archy could complete his senior studies in an environment that follows his passion with like minded students.
Monday, September 4 Five year plan
Wednesday, September 13 Probing blaze which gutted former college building
WANGARATTA High School will have a new master plan in place by the end of 2023, to guide development of the
INVESTIGATIONS remain ongoing into a “possibly suspicious” fire at Wangaratta’s former Ovens College on
Responsibility
Integrity
orian G BACK: Vict llege STEPPIN Co en al G er rm fo ured Premier and Andrews, pict student Daniel rs a year ago, has he at Brown Brot ill be leaving politics w announced he ening. ev Hickling as of 5pm this PHOTO: Kurt
Monday, September 18 Help stop fatalities A DRAMATIC rise in multiple-person road crash fatalities in the Wangaratta Police Service Area (PSA), where 24 people have lost their lives this year, has contributed to the level of impact on local communities. Data shows that in the local PSA there is a 4.7 per cent increase in serious injury crashes but it’s the demographic you’d expect least, with people aged 74 and over accounting for 80 per cent of the incidents.
Wednesday, September 20 Park to re-open MERRIWA Park will reopen on Friday afternoon following several months of closure due to tree safety concerns by council. One of the most loved parks in Wangaratta was closed on July 9 following an arborist’s report that deemed 10 red gum trees were high to extreme risk and users of the park such as lawn tennis club players have been unable to enjoy the space since.
Friday, September 22 Rail line standoff NORTH East MPs fear a funding dispute could see the return of slow, unreliable travel for North East Rail Line (NERL) passengers if not resolved. A standoff between the Australian Rail Track Company (ARTRC) and the State
Diversity
Excellence
Government over the funding of ongoing maintenance on the North East Rail Line has raised concerns the track will return to freight standard, after $285 million worth of upgrades were completed only two years ago.
Monday, September 25 Breaking ground INLAND Rail works took a major step over the weekend with the start of construction on the new Wangaratta Station pedestrian underpass. As a part of the Inland Rail works blitz, works started at Wangaratta on Friday and have been non-stop for the past 60 hours until the end of today, with the Melbourne to Sydney line to re-open tomorrow after closing on Saturday.
Wednesday, September 27 Fire danger plea WANGARATTA and district residents are being urged to refresh their knowledge of the state’s fire danger ratings, ahead of forecast ideal conditions for bushfires throughout the region during the summer months. With drier, hotter conditions expected as a result of the recently-announced El Nino weather pattern, CFA officials are calling on residents in fire-prone areas to familiarise themselves with the new four-tier warning system, which outlines moderate, high, extreme and catastrophic fire risk.
Friday, September 29 Fatality free POLICE have begun a major crackdown on drink and drug driving throughout the state to as they try and keep the AFL Grand Final long weekend fatality free. As part of Operation Scoreboard, which formally began yesterday, police are carrying out widespread roadside alcohol and drug testing throughout the extended break, adopting a zero tolerance approach for those driving under the influence. October, November and December Year In Review in Monday, January 8 edition
Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
wangarattachronicle.com.au
2023 WANGARATTA YOUNG WRITERS AWARD
Nandini’s ‘Hunger’ a winner NANDINI Gangaram took first place in the 2023 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year 10/11/12 story category with this piece. The competition was again jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta, in conjunction with the Wangaratta Library. FOOD has always been at the centre of my life. From the comfort of my grandmother’s hearty curry to the excitement of biting into a decadent slice of chocolate cake, food seems to always find a way to be a part of everything. The thought of a meal being able to unite people of different ages, races and places constantly amazes me. Yet somehow, this uniting device has managed to divide me. I used to love watching the Oscars and paging through the array of colours that Vogue offered. I would admire the intricate seams and scrutinise the choice
of fabrics, almost as if I were a true critic. But soon my interest shifted from the glorious gowns to the figures who wore them. It seemed as if the world was taking every opportunity to make me conscious. I couldn’t avoid it. My role models like Coco Chanel and Ralph Lauren were soon replaced by paper - all I wanted was to be thin. My relationship with hunger grew stronger each day, and soon we devised a method of communication. Every time my stomach rumbled; it was hunger’s way of reminding me that “beauty is pain”. I counted calories and researched more than I ate. But this cruel feeling became like a parasite that poisoned me, removing all sense and happiness from me. Soon everything began to change. I started to feel like all my energy had been extracted from my body as every step I took began to feel like climbing a mountain.
Even the effort of holding myself upright began to make me weary. Soon hunger told me “beauty is pain” every second of every day. My legs began to look like twigs and it felt like a single bump would cause them to snap. My shirt began to look as if it was five sizes too big, and soon even my face looked less like me. Hunger often felt like a pimple that never seemed to disappear, leaving me in pain and discomfort. I wanted to ease the pain, I wanted the exhaustion to end, but I could see ‘improvements’ in my body. And so, a salad became five vegetables, which became a cucumber, which became air. Each day became a larger battle to fight, with more food to avoid and more fatigue to withstand. I could no longer concentrate on anything but the idea of food. My body may not have been
consuming it, but my mind seemed to never stop eating. Today I felt different. I felt like I had reached my limit, like I could not push myself any further. As I walked to school I recited my mantra, “beauty is pain”, “beauty is pain”, “beauty is-” ... soon I heard a ‘thud’, and my world began to fade. We all get sick. Getting a cold, breaking a limb, and stubbing your toe are all part of being human. Consuming a few pills of different shapes, colours and sizes cures you in no time. I couldn’t get the pills close enough to my frail body to even think about this. I miss the comfort of my grandmother’s curry and the excitement of eating that decadent slice of chocolate cake. As I listen to the beeping of the monitors and feel the tubes in my nose becoming even more uncomfortable, a thought lingers in my mind. Is beauty really worth the pain? Hunger is consuming me.
POWERFUL PIECE: Nandini Gangaram took first place in the year 10/11/12 story category for her piece titled ‘Hunger’.
Macquarie Perch given statewide protected status
PROTECTING PERCH: The future of Macquarie perch is being secured with the endangered species given protected status,
EFFORTS to protect Macquarie perch are being bolstered with the endangered native fish species given protected status, banning their take by recreational fishers from two remaining Victorian waterways - Lake Dartmouth and Upper Coliban Reservoir. Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) chief executive officer Travis Dowling said taking ‘Maccas’ had been prohibited as part of an effort to give wild populations the best chance to be re-established. “We’re serious about bringing Maccas back and this will ensure the population at Lake Dartmouth can flourish in years
to come,” Mr Dowling said “The decision complements significant investment from the Victorian Government, along with a range of partner agencies, to ensure Maccas have a bright future in Victoria.” Previously Macquarie perch had a bag limit of one in Lake Dartmouth, which is home to an active breeding population of the fish, and a bag limit of two in Upper Coliban Reservoir. In 2023 the VFA began a threeyear partnership worth $3.7 million led by the Federal and Victorian governments to crack the code on how to reliably breed
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Macquarie perch in captivity. The project is being supported by a range of government, university and community organisations and research partners. It will examine nutrition, hormones, the timing of breeding and more to understand how to consistently produce fingerlings for stocking. Their recovery is also being boosted by $15m worth of development at the VFA’s Snobs Creek and Arcadia hatcheries, funded by the Victorian Government’s Go Fishing and Boating Victoria plan. The ongoing work will see all Murray cod production move to Arcadia, freeing up capacity at
Snobs Creek to maximise Macquarie perch breeding. Since 2022, the VFA’s Snobs Creek hatchery has produced more than 185,000 Macquarie perch that have been stocked into Victorian waters to establish populations both old and new – with more to come this summer. “It’s all about bringing back fisheries for Maccas in the future and returning these beautiful fish to their former glory in Victoria’s rivers and lakes,” Mr Dowling said. For more information on how the VFA is recovering Macquarie perch, visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/ recoveringmaccas
Building a healthy future future Friday, January 3, 2014 BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER WORK has commenced on a new, purpose-built headquarters for Ovens and King Community Health Service (OKCHS) within Wangaratta’s central business district. The Federal Government has provided $4,862,000 to redevelop the former Hoys Buslines depot in Mackay Street into a modern, two storey facility to accommodate the majority of the service’s 115 full and part-time staff. OKCHS operations manager Jan Lang said works will be completed by October, possibly as early as August. “This will help consolidate us as a primary health service,” she said. “And it also gives us the capacity for growth.” A particularly exciting
NEW LIFE: The old Nissan Hut will be rebuilt into a community centre.
10 years ago aspect of the development is rebuilding the existing Nissan Hut into a community facility, to be used for meetings, programs and perhaps even a community garden space. “We are looking to reuse many of the existing materials in the build,” Ms Lang said. Staff/administration will be on the top floor of the
new main building, with the ground floor providing for the: • GP practice; • allied health; • chronic disease prevention; • family/children services; • maternal health; • men’s behavioral change program; • integrated aged care assessment; • district nursing and continence; • counselling support program, including drugs and alcohol; and • victim assistance program.
JANUARY 5 - 11 | 2024
Four bedroom home with hard work done LOCATED in the popular new Creek Mist Estate in Wangaratta, this 2021 brick veneer home consists of four bedrooms, two bathrooms and double car garage. In near new condition this well-presented home offers itself to a range of demographics, whether you are looking to upgrade, downsize or even an investment opportunity. Stylish open plan living with the adjoining kitchen offers a seamless flow into the dining, living and outdoor areas.
A second media room/lounge is also a great space for separate living. The kitchen is well-appointed with generous walk-in pantry, breakfast bar and 900mm stove/oven. The master suite provides walk in robe and ensuite whilst three further guestrooms are generous in size and fitted with built in robes. The main bathroom has a shower and separate bath. Heating/cooling is well catered for with ducted gas and ducted
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evaporative systems. The outdoor area is all concreted with light and power, overlooking manicured lawns. A garden shed in the rear of the backyard with concrete slab and well-established gardens are just extras to this property’s features. If you are currently in the market to purchase a newly built home with all the hard work done, then contact Nutrien Harcourts office (5722 9444) today to book your inspection.
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Agent
| Nutrien Harcourts
Phone
| 5722 9444
Price
| $670,000
Location | 6 Magnolia Terrace, Wangaratta
Location, privacy and character A SUPERBLY located home where a combination of style and character are perfectly paired. This charming home is well positioned in the desirable Steane St, making it very accessible to the CDB schools and shops. Providing three bedrooms with the bungalow offering a potential 4th bedroom or office. The main bathroom features a tasteful renovation with stone benchtop and a frameless glass shower. Further enhancing the home are 10ft ceiling height, polished timber floors, new carpets, freshly painted with upgraded wiring, double-glazed windows, and new window furnishings. The central kitchen is fully functional with adjoining meals area, whilst the separate dining and living room features a gas log fire. Year-round comfort is ensured with ducted heating and cooling along with ceiling fans throughout the home. The spacious 709m2 block provides
perfect north facing orientation and designed for outside living. The solar heated pool is surrounded by frameless glass balustrade, 2-metrehigh fencing and stunning landscaping creating a fully secure and private escape. Shedding and open storage completes the package.
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Agent
| Nutrien Harcourts
Phone
| 5722 9444
Price
| $639,000
Location | 4 Steane Street, Wangaratta
Family home in great location NESTLED in an enviable location, this exquisite residence boasts both privacy and charm. Upon approach, you will appreciate how well cared for and beautifully presented this home is. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double garage on a well-maintained block. Entering the home a choice awaits you – turn right to retreat to the luxurious master suite, complete with a walk-in robe and ensuite, or head left to enjoy quality family time within the first of two expansive living spaces, versatile enough to serve as a formal lounge or an engaging play area for the children. The kitchen is well designed, featuring ample storage, modern high-quality fixtures, and appliances. A built-in pantry and breakfast bar complement the dining space, offering a seamless blend of functionality and style. Enjoy year-round comfort with
ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout. The convenience of a double garage, equipped with an electric roller door and direct internal entry, adds to the overall appeal and liveability of this lovely home. The large, flat, low maintenance rear yard offers plenty of opportunity and a relaxed outlook.
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Agent
| Garry Nash & Co.
Phone
| 5722 2663
Price
| $730,000
Location | 29 Pelican Court, Wangaratta
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If you’re not in the North East Property Guide, you’re not in the market. The region’s best property guide located inside your local paper every week and online anytime.
Ideal Investment
Central Opportunity
Escape to Eldorado
5 Batchelor Crescent
44 Roy Street
113 Main Street, Eldorado
• Neat 3 bedroom home on a large allotment • 2 of the bedrooms with built in robes • Kitchen with combined dining area along with separate living & formal dining area • Enjoy year-round comfort with a new reverse cycle split system • Large yard with potential of subdivision (STCA) • Located close to the Mitchell Avenue splash park & pump track
Vacant - 511 3 Land 1
771m2
FOR SALE $343,000
• ‘Hill View’ circa 1920s brick period home with beautiful features to enjoy • Ornate features throughout inc high ceilings • 4 bedrooms, an updated kitchen & bathroom & freshly painted throughout • 2 split systems, gas heater, ducted evap. cool • Established gardens on corner allotment • Single electric garage & carport • Located close to the CBD, hospital medical precinct & schools in tightly held area
Vacant - 512 4 Land 1
613m2
• 3 bedroom plus study on a large allotment • Spacious ensuite with double vanity & spa • Open plan kitchen, WIP & formal dining • Large formal lounge room opening out to the established trees & gardens • Outdoor comfort with alfresco area & deck • 20,800 Lt (approx.) water tank servicing the house & bore water for the toilets & gardens • Just meters away from the school bus stop & popular McEvoy Tavern • Carport plus handy garage/workshop
Vacant 3 Land 2 - 512
1,297m2
FOR SALE $700,000
FOR SALE $585,000
Modern Family Home 32 Arlington Park Avenue • Stunning 4-bed home by R&R Quality Homes • Located in Arlington Park Estate, this property offers an exceptional living experience • Spacious living room perfect for entertaining with the open-plan kitchen & dining room • Desirable butler’s pantry with ample storage • Main bedroom boasts WIR & ensuite • Reverse cycle heating & cooling • Undercover outdoor entertaining area • Low-maintenance yard & gardens
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2
2
650m2
FOR SALE $749,000
RURAL LIFESTYLE
Tasteful Central Home
Home You’ll be Proud Of
Desirable Classic Home
3 Lynton Court
15 Pauline Terrace
15 Swan Street
• Charming renovated 4 bed brick home • Perfect blend of modern comfort & style • Prime central court location within walking distance to the City Centre • Timber floors, tastefully renovated kitchen, concrete benchtops & ample storage • Open plan dining area complemented by a large living area perfect for entertaining • Ducted gas heat, gas heater & evap. cooling • Pizza oven & a convenient single carport
Vacant - 511 4 Land 1
611m2
FOR SALE $780,000
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Allure Luxe 5 Murphy Street, Wangaratta • Thriving beauty business positioned well along the main street of Wangaratta’s CBD offering plenty of foot traffic and visibility. • Full training w brand partners after handover • 5 days per week trading with 2 late nights • Take control of the business at well below set up cost. Wholesale side, selling its own line of products to its strong database of clients and customers. • Opportunity to add services and specialties
FOR SALE $78,000 + SAV No No GST, GST, Going Going Concern Concern
• 2019 built home has everything to offer • Modern living & style in well-regarded estate • Cleverly designed functional floor plan • Large master suite, WIR, generous ensuite frameless shower, dual vanity & sep. toilet • Three further guest rooms all with BIR, separate study & three living areas • Spacious open plan living, central kitchen, seamless flow into dining, living & alfresco • Stone bench tops, timbers floors, butlers pantry, ducted gas heating and evaporative cooling, double garage, automated irrigation
4
3
2
690m2
FOR SALE $860,000
COMMERCIAL FREEHOLD
Rare Murphy Freehold 5 Murphy Street • Opportunity to invest in popular central location • Immaculate premises next to popular Hollywoods Wangaratta • Currently occupied by business Allure Luxe (www.allureluxe.com.au) • Four year lease commenced September 2020 (no Options) • 125m2 approx. premises with rear pedestrian access from Ford Street • 50% regional stamp duty concession avail.
251 Goodwins Lane, Milawa
• ‘Bellerive’ - where history and charm meets modern elegance and amenities • Double brick home renovated in 2018 • Elegant kitchen, European Oak timber floorboards, 2pac cabinetry, over bench touch lighting, soft close drawers • Upgrades inc. plumbing, wiring, windows new carpet laid over original Murray Pine • French doors out to an undercover alfresco • Oversized shed with a wood fire, cedar work benches, power, lighting, and double door
3
1
Extensive River Frontage
2
1,100m2
FOR SALE $950,000
COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT
Wangaratta X-Ray 101 Rowan Street • Wangaratta X-Ray Freehold, Opportunity to invest in Wangaratta’s ‘Hospital Precinct’ • High traffic corner location close to Northeast Health Wangaratta • Rental income $57,076 pa + GST & outgoings • Eight year lease commenced July 2018 with Options to 2036 • Well maintained purpose built premises (extended in 2010) • 50% regional stamp duty concession available
• Picturesque Oxley Flats / Milawa district • Circa 1890s solid brick renovated homestead, seamless blend of character / contemporary • Separate dwelling nearby for your very own guest house venture or private retreat • Extensive frontage along the Ovens River • True rural community, local amenities include pub, restaurants, wineries, primary school, pharmacy, bakery, cheese factory, store. • 5 min drive to Milawa, 12 mins to Wangaratta
Vacant 6 Land 2 - 513
61 ac
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
R U R A L FA R M I N G
‘Uppatrak’ - 254 acres Waters Lane, Carboor • Magnificent undulating grazing country • Hurdle Creek frontage, two large water storages & dams, underground mains for irrigation (44 ML ground licence) • Substantial steel cattle and sheep yards • 336m2 hay shed, 131m2 machinery shed & rain water tanks • 9 main paddocks with good fencing • Small area native timber provides shelter • 10% Deposit, Residue within 60 days
FOR SALE $549,000
FOR SALE $910,000
FOR SALE $3,250,000
No GST, Going Concern
No GST Going Concern
No GST, Farming Exemption
23 Baker St, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au |
■ COROLLA: Somewhere along the line it became sporty.
TOYOTA COROLLA 1.8 ZR HYBRID HATCH By CHRIS RILEY, Marque Motoring FINISHED in black over silver, Toyota’s ZR Corolla looks more eye-catching than ever. In the past few years the company has been able to transform the image of the car from staid and conservative into something much more sporty that has younger buyer appeal -- at least that’s the plan. Flanking the hatch is the more traditional sedan for mums and dads and rally bred, three-door, all-wheel drive GR hot hatch at the other end of the scale for the boy racers (and boy racers at heart). STYLING Corolla hatch starts from $29,610 for the Ascent Sport with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and automatic transmission. The same car with a fuel-saving petrol-electric powertrain, a-la-Prius is an extra $2500, but will save you money in the long run. Top of the range is the ZR Hybrid at $39,100 plus on roads, with a two-tone paint option for $775, offered in combination with white, grey, red, silver and blue. There’s also the sporty, allwheel drive GR Corolla from $64,190. Our test vehicle the ZR Hybrid hatch is $44,394 by the time you put it on the road and as good as it might be, that is a lot of Corolla. In the lights department, it
has auto high beam, bi-LED headlights, along with LED daytime, tail and front/rear fog lights. ZR steps up to a full 12.3inch digital instrument cluster along with a windscreen headup display. Corolla comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty. ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS With the introduction of the upgraded fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, performance has been boosted with a 13kW increase in power to deliver a combined output of 103kW. The upgraded hybrid teams a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a newly developed high-output motor generator, power control unit and downsized hybrid transaxle. The front, axle-mounted drive motor has been enhanced by doubling the number of magnets per pole inside the rotor, while the newly developed lithium-ion battery reduces weight by 14 per cent while increasing both input and output power. Hybrid grades drive the front wheels exclusively via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In comparison the 2.0-litre Toyota Dynamic Force inline four-cylinder engine produces 126kW/202Nm in the hatch and 126kW/203Nm for the sedan, driving the front wheels via a CVT with 10-speed sequential shift mode. Of note Corolla’s cousin
the Lexus UX scores a larger 2.0-litre engine as the basis for its hybrid that produces a combined 135kW. SAFETY Corolla has been awarded a full five stars for safety by ANCAP. It comes with a rear view camera, seven airbags including a driver knee airbag and autonomous emergency braking (City, Interurban & Vulnerable Road User) as well as lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW). Cameras and radar sensors have also been improved offering a wider range for detection of obstacles or vehicles. Blind spot monitor has been added across the hatch range, while lane trace assist has been expanded to include the emergency driving stop system feature that has been designed to bring the vehicle to a gradual stop if it detects the driver is no longer making vehicle inputs. The active cruise control system has also been enhanced and now offers four distance settings, the ability to detect other vehicles earlier, and the addition of deceleration assist when changing lanes. But it misses out on auto reverse braking. Isofix child restraint anchorage points are provided for the rear outboard seats.
DRIVING Corolla’s styling has evolved into something quite exceptional over the years, culminating in the latest ZR variant. Launched 57 years ago, the latest 12th generation hatch sports a low, wind-cheating profile that places the car quite close to the ground which can pose problems. It can make getting in and out difficult at times and it means driveways and speed humps need to be approached with caution, as the low front apron has a way of scraping. The sloping rear roof line also makes entry to the back more difficult than it probably should be and you might find it a little cramped once you’re there. In the case of the hybrid, the boot is larger because it doesn’t get a spare wheel, temporary or otherwise, just a puncture repair kit -- to make room for the battery pack. ZR is available with a sporty 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine or as a petrol-electric hybrid at a $2500 premium. Putting the transmission of the hybrid in Power mode delivers more satisfying throttle response, with a turn of speed thanks to the boost from the electric motor. But make sure you don’t pull the transmission lever back all the way or you’ll find yourself in B instead of D which is the regenerative braking mode. D is one step back. Steering is sharp and the hatch corners flat and hard, but
AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE: ASCENT SPORT PETROL HATCH OR SEDAN: $28,130 ASCENT SPORT HYBRID HATCH: $30,630 ASCENT SPORT HYBRID SEDAN: $31,180 SX PETROL HATCH OR SEDAN: $31,280 SX HYBRID HATCH OR SEDAN: $33,780 ZR PETROL HATCH: $35,120 ZR PETROL SEDAN: $36,620 ZR HYBRID HATCH: $37,620 ZR HYBRID SEDAN: $39,120 NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mazda dealer for drive-away prices.
the ride is overly harsh and the cabin can become quite noisy depending on the surface. At the end of the day the hybrid is all about economy and this is where the Corolla aces it. Rated at 4.0L/100km, we were getting 5.1L after more than 600km of mixed driving. SUMMING UP The Corolla ZR Hybrid is a lot of car, but the price reflects this at well over $40K on the road. It also has a lot of arguably better competition, but no one quite plays the hybrid card like
Toyota, providing immediate, accessible, no frills fuel savings to the average motorist. In this respect, it’s hard to beat. RATINGS: Looks: 8.5 Performance: 7 Safety: 7.5 Thirst: 8 Practicality: 7.5 Comfort: 7 Tech: 8 Value: 7.5 Overall: 7.6 STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years/unlimited kilometres
wangarattachronicle.com.au
THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 19
NORTH EAST NATURALLY
The nomadic Cockatiel By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS WHETHER the Cockatiel is a parrot or a cockatoo has been debated for some time. Their streamlined shape, pointed wings and long, slender tail are parrot-like, but they also possess key anatomical traits of cockatoos – a distinctive crest, a gall bladder, a short, rounded tongue, and powder downs on their lower back. They also lack the structural pigment in their feathers that gives parrots their green, blue or red colours. Furthermore, female cockatiels have barring on their wings and rump, in much the same manner as Gang-gang Cockatoos, and they have black mottled tails like female blackcockatoos. For these reasons, Cockatiels are officially regarded as a cockatoo – the smallest and slightest of all 14 Australian species. Cockatiels are typically birds of the arid interior, being most common in open or lightly timbered country and never far from water. Though they can occur in Victoria in all months of the year, they are mostly summer visitors and can sometimes occur in large numbers if conditions in-
land are poor and food is scarce. In North East Victoria, they occur mainly from October through to February and have been recorded nesting in some years, especially during inland droughts. They are often found in pairs or small flocks up to five or six birds. When in numbers, they like to roost communally – another cockatoo-like trait. They feed on the ground on seeds of many types of grasses, herbs and shrubs, including weeds such as Capeweed. They like to drink daily and visit water sources of any type, ranging from small puddles after rain to dams and river edges. When resting through the day, or if disturbed from feeding, they often fly to dead trees and perch lengthways on limbs – their grey tones blending with the timber. When in flight, they are graceful and buoyant, flying with a steady beat of their wings – a distinctive appearance which often helps in their identification. Though both sexes have a long, wispy crest, males differ
from females by having a yellow crest and face and a prominent dark orange cheek patch. Females have a grey crest with only a slight amount of yellow-white on the face and much paler orange cheek. The rest of their plumage is smokey-grey, darker above and paler underneath, with bold white shoulder patches which are prominent in flight. Their calls too are quite distinctive – a warbling queel queel, mostly given in flight.
RYLE FRP DX
THIRSTY WORK: Living in warm and dry regions means that Cockatiels need to drink water regularly. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond).
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Local people, local places
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OU NO T W !
...immerse yourself in the region
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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
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St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc.
DAY RESPITE PROGRAM At St Catherine’s we understand the needs of carers, we have developed a day respite program that enables the person you look after to enjoy the benefits of residential care on an ad hoc basis, while giving you more time in your day. St Catherine’s day respite program is designed for low level care. We offer a safe, welcoming and social environment for your loved as well as stimulation through our lifestyle program. Day respite care is available from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) with clients being able to access the program between 9am to 5pm on each of these days. Access to allied health, nursing, hairdressing and other services may also be arranged for those attending the day program at an additional cost. Our day respite service has a focus on healthy, positive living through structured activity programs. The day respite services are available to people subject to an assessment by the Care Manager. We will assess your respite needs and outline eligibility and assessment requirements. The cost of the day respite program is $80.00 per day and subject to availability. Please contact St Catherine’s reception on (03) 5721 2243 to enquire further.
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.
DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wa n g a r a t t a a n d surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.
DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers, behavioural solutions, 0418 314 610.
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WORK! Phone: (03) 5723 0101
WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB QUALIFIED HEAD GREENKEEPER Wangaratta Golf Club is currently looking for a Qualified Head Greenkeeper. Someone who takes pride in continuously maintaining high maintenance standards for our members, guests, and visitors. Working hours are 38 hours per week with occasional weekend work for special events. (all additional hours are to be taken in lieu). DUTIES INCLUDE t Overseeing the maintenance of all turf areas on the course to a high standard, including greens, tees, bunkers, fairways and rough. t Proficient in course set-up t Carry out or liase with contractors for turf renovation, scarifying, coring, dethatching, and sanding as required. t Assist in any other areas as directed by Committee executive. t Safely apply pesticides and fertilizers when necessary t Irrigation management t Follow and implement safe workplace practices. EXPERIENCE AND REQUIREMENTS t Certificate 3 in Sports Turf Management or higher t Chemical accreditation t Experience in all aspects of Golf Course maintenance t Competent with turf machinery t Experience and knowledge of chemical and fertilizer applications t Experience with irrigation systems t Punctual and team orientated, strong work ethic and enthusiastic. An attractive remuneration package is on offer based on skills and experience. Applications Please send your application detailing skills, experience and qualifications to The Secretary Wangaratta Golf Club as follows t XBOHBSBUUBHPMGDMVC!CJHQPOE DPN PS t #Z NBJM UP 'BJSXBZ %SJWF 8BOHBSBUUB 7JD
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TENDERS
TENDERS Horseshoe Quarry Blast & Crush Tender request for Contract No. 23/6539 Council is seeking tenders to carry out the blasting and crushing of gravel at their quarry at Everton, Victoria. Works will involve the production of graded material and stockpiling on site. A copy of the scope of works and tender submission is available by going to http://www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/tenders, and registering on the E-Procure portal to download documents. Documents are free to download. Tenders will close at 2pm on Friday 12 January 2024.
www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Phone: 1300 365 003
ACCOMMODATION available in Springhurst and Wangaratta, ideal for holiday or room rentals. Ph 0428 217 493. HOLIDAY house in Ocean Grove, available for rent for selected dates in January and from February 2024 onwards Contact Leanne 0403 386 945.
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EMPLOYMENT
PEDIGREE Miniature Poodle Puppies, apricot, red, brown, and black, excellent temperament vaccinated and microchipped, many testimonials available on request, source number: MB238702, microchip numbers: 956000016207918, 956000015910702, 991003002427971, 991003002427970, 991003002427978, 991003002427976, 991003002427979, 991003002427980, 991003002427977. Ph 0455 171 780 or 03 5727 0595.
EMPLOYMENT
TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED
For the 2024 Grape Season. MUST BE OR HAVE: CURRENT HC LICENCE, OVER 25 YEARS OLD, FORKLIFT LICENCE, EXPERIENCED WITH GENERAL FREIGHT. APPROXIMATELY 8 WEEKS WORK, STARTING EARLY FEB. Above Award Wages for the right applicants. PHONE GREG 0429 306 679 or email jenveytransport@gmail.com
Customer Service Officer An exciting opportunity now exists for a casual Customer Service Officer to join our Customer Service team based in Milawa, Victoria. What’s on Offer: t 20-38 hours per week t Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies t A flexible and supportive working environment t Generous employee benefits including discounts on all products If this role interests you and you believe you have the skills and experience to be successful in this role, then we would love to hear from you! Please scan the QR code below. Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or by calling Allyce on (03) 5720 5500. Applications will close on 19th January 2024. Scan to apply
Vacancies
Hand Therapist Occupational/Physiotherapist Part Time – Permanent Contract Up to 48 hours per fortnight
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Full Time – 15 Month Fixed Contract
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EMPLOYMENT
DEATH NOTICES ENDERS, Maisie.
FOOD & DOMESTIC ASSISTANT Permanent Part Time – 0.70 EFT Contract Casual Contracts available QUALIFIED COOK Casual Contract For further information please contact Belinda Achammer, Essential Dining Experience Supervisor - (03)5728 0273 Ä,D^Ôá,Ä,$ύ èÄÔ,ύDÄ $,ύ̈́ύΟ èá,Ρ Permanent Part Time – 0.60 EFT Contract Casual Contracts also available , $ ÄÔ,$ύ, Ä ,$ύ èÄÔ,ÔύΟ ,Ė, ύ̈́Ρ Permanent Part Time & Casual Contracts available For further information please contact Angela Clement, Director Clinical Services - (03)5728 0316 ȤɡʡǶɃǒύ$ĬʭơʡΈύώ͂͒Θ̀͂Θ͈̈́̀̈́ Application instructions can be found on our website As we are an Aged Care Facility, the COVID 19 vaccinations, ƒɡɡʡʭơʉύ̂ĬƓƓǶɃĬʭǶɡɃύĬɃƚύ^Ƀ̺ʽơɃ̱ĬύǶȽȽʽɃǶʡĬʭǶɡɃύǶʡύȽĬɃƚĬʭɡʉ̉ύ ǐɡʉύĬȤȤύʡʭĬ̶Άύ ύƓɡʄ̉ύɡǐύ̉ɡʽʉύ̂ĬƓƓǶɃĬʭǶɡɃύʡʭĬʭʽʡύǶʡύʉơʇʽǶʉơƚύʽʄɡɃύ ĬʄʄȤǶƓĬʭǶɡɃΆύ ȤȤύʡʭĬ̶ύ̃ǧɡύ̃ɡʉȟύǶɃύɡʽʉύʉơʡǶƚơɃʭǶĬȤύĬǒơƚύƓĬʉơύ ʽɃǶʭʡύĬȤʡɡύʉơʇʽǶʉơύĬύƓʽʉʉơɃʭύ $^ÔύƓǧơƓȟ To apply and for full details on the positions, please log on to: www.beechworthhealthservice.com.au
WHITE Ford Futura Sedan 2004, as is, motor goes well, auto, needs work, alloy rims , u n r eg i st e r e d , (6F9AAAJGSW4E51 127), $1200 ono. Ph 0418 582 938.
HIGH GROVE BERRY FARM Pick your own berries! Open daily 8am-4pm. Mt Stanley Rd, Stanley Ph (03) 5728 6526 EŽ ŌƉŽƐ ĨĂĐŝůŝƟĞƐ͘ Find us on Facebook ĨŽƌ ƵƉĚĂƚĞƐ͘
FREE shed 30ftx22ft approx, need all the g a l l i n e t a k e aw a y, 5ftx4ft approx bird ave r y f r e e , 7 f t x 7 f t approx fernery free. Phone 0484 297 122. TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, M o n d a y, Tu e s d a y, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221. Adzam Tyres.
If you don't use it...
Bird cage 2ft W x 2ft H x 16” D $110 Contact Mario on 5721 8991 or at 24 Medowra Ave, Wangaratta
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STUBINGTON, Kathleen Grace.
get results.
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The children of Moyhu had the pleasure of visiting Maisie for many years where she shared her love of the Australian wildlife with the children and always gave them a bush ice cream on farewell. A truly amazing person with a passion for Australian animals. Maisie will be dearly missed by the Moyhu Pre-School families.
Dear Auntie Kate, all my love. ~Shirley.
SAUNDERS, Joan. Deepest sympathy to Noel, Alan, Greg and Buster. Tenderly we treasure the past, with memories that will always last. Long term and much loved friend of Chris and Maureen.
LARKIN, June. The committee and members of the Moyhu Bowls Club extend our deepest sympathy to the families on the passing of June. Foundation member, a life member and a thank you to a tireless worker. R.I.P.
HUMPHRY A funeral service to honour the life of Charles Alfred Humphry will be held at Glenmorus Gardens, Albury Chapel, 54 Glenmorus Street, Glenroy, NSW, TOMORROW, Saturday, January 6, 2024, commencing at 2pm. Charles’s funeral service may be viewed via live stream at northeastfunerals. com.au/live-stream/
WALKER, Lorraine Grace. Late of Benalla. Passed away on Christmas night. Loved wife of Graeme (dec). Dearly loved sister and sister-in-law of Robyn and Barry Batten. Loved Aunty of Stuart and Annmarie, Dean and Karen (U.S.A), Leigh and Laura, Claire and Nik (U.K) and their families. Forever in our hearts.
The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association
John & Christine Haddrick
5722 2525
All Hours
northeastfunerals.com.au
A funeral experience... not just a funeral service
Mason Park Funerals
P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
DIFFEY, Joan Gladys. BEREAVEMENT THANKS HENNESSY, Anthony. Stella, Brett and Bernadette wish to thank family and friends for their personal visits, cards, phone calls, messages and food on Anthony’s passing. Please accept this as our personal thanks.
5/1/1908 – 12/3/1980
FIREWOOD bulk loads, garden sleepers and fencing timber. Phone Northeast Firewood 0448 933 999.
Trailer cage to suit 6 x 4 $300
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Personal Notices
The Moyhu District Pre-School community would like to pass on their condolences to the Enders family.
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
STAFFORD,
Lewis Maxwell. Patricia “Patti” together with her family wish to thank everyone for their expressions RI V\PSDWK\ FDUGV DQG ÀRZHUV RQ WKH passing of Lewy. Thanks must go to Dr Alex Traill Ovens Medical Group for the care given over a period of time. Special thanks to all the emergency services for their compassion and help on December 5. 5RVHPDU\ 6WHHOH :D\QH 6WD൵RUG 7RZQ Country Tavern, Craig Kelly, Woolworths Wangaratta and North East Funerals for their professional manner, compassion, and understanding. We are forever grateful for your support and friendship.
7/10/1927 - 7/1/2016 Mum/Gran/ Great Gran, Often thought of and very sadly missed by your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and all who knew you. ~ Daryl, Elaine and families. GORDON, Jack. January 1, 2002. Close to our hearts, You will always stay. Loved and remembered everyday. - Esther, John, Jan, Michael, Brendon and Darren.
Personal Notices
may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication
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IN MEMORIAM TAYLOR, John. Wednesday, January 6, 2021. Dad, 3 years since you have been gone. Life has never been the same. Miss you every day. You are never far from my daily thoughts. Always in my heart forever. ~ Love your daughter, Debbie TURK, Barbara Joan. 8/10/1928 – 4/1/2008 To hear your voice, to see your smile, to sit and talk for a while, is our thought for today and every day, since you went away. Loved and cherished forever. Loving memories of a kind, gentle, beautiful mother, Nana and Great Nana. ~ Miss and love always, Jan, David, Lauren, Jason and families.
Instead of flowers,
a Memorial Gift
An alternative to flowers at a funeral of a loved one is a memorial donation. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the care and attention provided by Northeast Health Wangaratta. For more information please contact our Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.
Looking for print, design and digital solutions that stand out from the crowd?
t: 03 5723 0100 e: nemcreative@nemedia.com.au www.nemcreative.com.au
THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 23
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Perfect start to a career in journalism I ARRIVED at the Wangaratta Chronicle in 2019, just a week after graduating high school. I had no idea what I wanted to do after school but the opportunity to join the Wangaratta Chronicle as a cadet arose. Originally I applied for the position as a cadet journalist in the early general news side of the paper, however, an opportunity to join sport came to fruition and I jumped at that with both hands. As a sports-loving 18-year-old, sports journalism combined both my love for sport, as well as writing which I saw as one of my strengths at school. The opportunity to combine these two facets, along with earning a full-
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
time wage and having my study at Deakin University paid for was too good to pass up. Under the tutelage of all senior journalists at the Wangaratta Chronicle, I have been able to not only improve my writing, but also learn other valuable skills such as pagination. My time as a sports journalist has been nothing short of interesting. When I took on this job I had absolutely no idea that I would have virtually no sport to report on through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as partly through 2021, but I feel
JOB DONE: Willson Mack has recently completed his three-year cadetship with the )" - // #-*)$ ' and is looking forward to attending university in Geelong next year to complete his Bachelor of Communications.
that these times have only improved my skills as a journalist. Throughout these times I had to search far and wide for stories, while my hard-news style of writing only improved with all the cancellations that occurred throughout that time, which I believe will only hold me in good stead for my future in this arena. Since then, sport has returned and I’ve been able to get back to writing
match reports on all sport and cover things like grand ǰŠĝřź͂ƚņʼnīņ͂ņĝź͂ĪĵĵŠ͂źŧşĵ͂ of my highlights thus far. For me, reporting on the 2022 Ovens and Murray ŁŶĝŠı͂ǰŠĝř͂ƚĝź͂ĝ͂şĝźźʼnƙĵ͂ highlight with Wangaratta saluting in an absolute thriller against Yarrawonga at the Lavington Sportsground. Memories like that is why many people should seriously consider taking on a cadetship at the
Wangaratta Chronicle. Throughout all of this I was studying online with Deakin University’s Country Press Australia’s Post-Cadet Journalism course, which gave me an extra insight into the world of journalism. Thanks to this course I have now been able to secure a position at Deakin University, studying a Bachelor of Communications. Due to my prior studies
as a cadet journalist I’m eligible for recognition of prior learning which will give me credits that will then cut my course down ĝŠı͂ĝřřŧƚ͂şĵ͂Ɓŧ͂ǰŠʼnźņ͂ my bachelor degree a lot sooner. My career at the Wangaratta Chronicle has equipped me of life-long skills and knowledge and I strongly encourage any young person to give this path a go. Ŷ )/ - ./ ń '*2ŀ
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN - CADET JOURNALIST (Sport / General News) Is this you?
Study Journalism at Deakin University for 3 years Wangaratta Chronicle is currently seeking expressions of interest from motivated candidates to join the team in Wangaratta as a cadet journalist. The successful candidate will learn how to write clear, concise and interesting news, sport and feature stories for our newspaper and associated digital and social media platforms.
TO APPLY Please email your cover letter & resume to: Jeff Zeuschner, Group Editor E: jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au
Soon to be Year 12 graduate or past graduate
Excellent English skills
Passionate about the local community
Ability to build rapport & network quickly
Strong organisational skills & attention to detail
Valid drivers licence
Photography and/or social media skills
Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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Local trainers thrive at race day
THE major drainage works undertaken at Wangaratta Racecourse proved their value on Tuesday in the face of a torrential downpour. The first six races were completed while clouds gathered, but heavy rain and lightning forced a slight delay before the final two races could be run. Despite the lashing rain, Wangaratta Turf Club CEO Sean Barrett said the day was a massive success. “There was a delay of about half an hour due to the lightning in the area, that’s the main reason we had the delay, and the visibility for the jockeys was the second part of it,” he said. “Once that storm front that came through cleared, we were able to commence racing once the storm and lightning had subsided, and everyone from the racing side of things did a fantastic job to get through the last two races. “The track was fantastic, and the drainage worked fantastically well which – when you put that investment in, that’s what you want to see, and it holds us in really good stead for our future meetings, and potentially pick up extra meetings through that winter period. “It’s a real asset for the club.” Tuesday’s first race meet of the year at the Wangaratta Turf Club saw three locally-trained horses come home winners, despite inclement weather. Scott McIntosh’s Rhonda
PAST THE POST: Jockey Hannah Le Blanc guides Showies Best Shot to a win in race six on Tuesday at Wangaratta. PHOTO: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos
Vous, ridden by Blaike McDougall, came home in a photo finish from New Zealand galloper My Roca Fella to take out race four. Two races later, Ledger Racing’s Showies Best Shot ($8.50), ridden by Hannah Le Blanc, stormed home in the $27,000 Benchmark 64 Handicap (1000m).
WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB WGC Competitions: Week ending December 31 December 27 Men’s Stableford 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Rod Godde 15 C/B Points. Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 15 C/B Points. 18 Hole Winner: Simon McKay 35 Points. 18 Hole Runner Up: Bobby Hutchieson 34 C/B Points. Ball Winners: Daymn Hoffard, Trevor Clark, Geoff Webster, Ash Clayton. NTP: 4th Rod Moyle, 7th Craig Donoghue, 9th Lachy Moore, 11th Trevor Clark, 13th Bill Dodd, 16th Lachy Moore. December 28 Women’s Stableford 9 Hole Stableford 9 Hole Winner: Barb Thomas 20 Points. 9 Hole Runner Up: Janette Collier 19 Points. December 29 9 Hole Medley Stableford Winner: Graeme Beale 20 C/B Points. Runner Up: Karen Smith 20 Points. Ball Winners: Jarred Clark, Zac Cunneen, Chris Martens. December 30 Men’s Competition: 18 Hole Stableford A Grade Winner: Jason McCoy 39 Points. A Grade Runner Up: Darren Burns 38 C/B Points. B Grade Winner: Peter King 41 Points. B Grade Runner Up: Mitch Solimo 40 Points. Ball Winners: Denis Hill, Chris Oates, Neil McKinnon, Colin
Le Blanc held firm in front after jumping from barrier nine in the 10 horse field, taking the win by 1.75 lengths from heavy favourite Oh No Mikki ($3.70). Ben Brisbourne’s Patchouli Dream ($4.40) maintained the lead for the majority of race seven to take the win in the $27,000 Benchmaark
Walker, John Mullins, Matt Fischer, Ryan McKay, Damien Kelly, Mark Comensoli, Seb Denapoli, Craig Donoghue. NTP: 4th Denis Hill, 7th John Southwell, 9th Matt Nicolosi, 11th Mitch Solimo, 13th Bill Dodd, 16th Jarred Clark. Raffle Winner: Jarred Clark. Birdie: Darren Burns, David Altair. Eagle: Jason McCoy. Secret 6: Dylan Fischer. December 31 Medley Stableford 18 Hole Winner: Kadeem May 38 Points. 18 Hole Runner Up: Jeffrey Elliott 34 Points.
TARRA GOLF CLUB TARRAWINGEE Golf Club Results Saturday, December 30 The members played a stableford event which was won by Ken Miller with 36pts, the runner up was Lindsay Steer 35pts from Glen Simmons 33pts NTP: 4th Ken Miller, 8th Lindsay Steer. Monthly Awards: Secretaries award Leo McCoy. Captains award Pete Nolan. Birdies Ken Miller, Gobblers Ken Miller. Golf to be played on Saturday, January 6 2024 will be for the Monthly Medal. Hit off times will be 8:30am for a 9:00am start. Tarra Ladies returned to golf with their 9-hole summer programme. They played a Stableford event which was won by Joan Quarrel with 18 points. The Summer programme will continue next week with an 8.30am Tee-off. Members are always welcome at
58 Handicap (1170m) by .75 lengths. Barrett said local trainers and horses would have more chances for glory at the track, with two more meets pencilled in for January. “Scott McIntosh, Ben Brisbourne and John Ledger all had winners on the day, and other winners from around
the stables here performed really well as well,” he said. “They have a great record of getting strong results on our home track, and hopefully with a couple more meets to come in January on the 11th and 25th, we can see some more local winners at home. “We’ve got another meet
next Thursday, and we’re back here to kick off the Australia Day weekend early. “We’ll have a bit of entertainment on the 25th, the races will start a bit later on that day, so people who are looking to knock off early, come down and kick off the celebrations, this will be the place to be.”
the Tarrawingee golf club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428 122 590 or by contacting a member of the club.
WLTC SATURDAY senior social round, December 30 2023. Social play was once again on the agenda this week. A little fun was had by all on a warm sunny day, however the windy conditions were a little tricky at times. The aggregate competition resumes on Saturday, January 6. Section 1: Matt Allen 23-12, John Brunner 18-17, Phil Peck 18-17, Mark Wettern 17-21, Barry Sullivan 12-21. Section 2: Mark Brown 24-17, Frank Harris 22-19, Maree Sullivan 19-21, Michael Falkenberg 19-23, Phil Dryden 18-22. Section 3: Lance Crockett 24-15, Greg Renner 20-21, Alan Busk 19-22, Peter Curran 19-22. Section 4: Pat Flynn 18-8, John Shanley 14-14, Des Steele 12-14, Terry Flynn 12-14, Geoff Davidson retired. Section 5: Cate Geard 23-16, Peter Ablazej 21-18, Sue Piper 19-20, Mick Keogh 15-24.
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB Saturday, December 30, 2023 Stableford Winner: Josie Fitzsimons 38. Ball Winners: Christine Boseley (2) 37, Yogie Naidoo 35, Lee Freeland 34. NTP: 4th Di Murphy, 8th Vicki Moorhead, 13th Josie Fitzsimons, 17th Jackie O’Brien. Sunday, December 31, 2023 Stableford A Grade: Chris Palmer 38, on countback from Samuel Bakes.
LAY OF THE GREEN: Ed Day surveys the green at Jubilee Golf Club. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling B Grade: Peter Evans 39. Ball Winners: Samuel Bakes (2) 38, Glenn O’Connell 37, Matt Sanders 36, Josh Ormond 36. NTP: 4th Gary Walder, 8th Glenn O’Connell, 13th Glenn Ryan, 17th Darren Jones. Monday, January 1, 2024 Stableford A Grade: Aaron Kungl 38, on countback from Glenn O’Connell. B Grade: Alan White 39. C Grade: Sam Bayles 43. Eagle on 9th hole to Jacob Schonafinger. Ball Winners: Peter Collihole (2) 38, Jackie O’Brien 38, Glenn O’Connell 38, Randall Vavra 38, Jez Rigoni 37, Brian Thomas 37, Eon Scott 37, Tom Aggett 37. NTP: 4th Greg Rigoni, 8th Keith Moorhead, 13th Jackie O’Brien, 17th Wayne Hibberson. Tuesday, January 2 Stableford and 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Lee Freeland 39, on a countback from Joy Hester. Ball Winners: Joy Hester (2) 39, Robyn Ottaway 37.
9 Hole Winner: Robyn Grealy 18. Ball Winner: Pauline Mercer 17. NTP: 4th Joy Hester, 8th Liane Graham, 13th Joy Hester, 17th Joy Hester. Wednesday, January 3 Stableford A Grade Winner: Ian Dinsdale 40. B Grade Winner: Keith Moorhead 41. C Grade Winner: Trevor Gunn 36. Ball Winners: Ian Mills (2) 40, Mike Morno 39, Michael Cordier 39, Dave Richards 36, Pat Ernst 36, Roy Methven 35, Joe Marjanovic 35, Jim Moore 35, Glenn O’Connell 35, Peter Geldens 34, Paul Lawrence 34, from Andrew Skewes, Gordon Paterson and Martin Van Rhee. NTP: 4th Martin Van Rhee, 8th Michael Cordier, 13th Trevor Gunn, 17th Joe Marjanovic, Wednesday, January 3 9 Hole Stableford A Grade Winner: Mark Dean 24. Runner up: Daniel McPhee 19 on a countback from Matt Walker. B Grade Winner: Chris O’Keefe 20, Runner Up: Leo McCoy 18. NTP: 8th Josh Trimble.
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 25
SPORT
2024 Wangaratta Sports Carnival ready, set to go WANGARATTA Sports Club is gearing up to present the annual Wangaratta Sports Carnival on Saturday, January 27 at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. The 103rd running of the Wangaratta Sports Carnival will commence at 11.00am and continues into the evening featuring an action-packed schedule of events, including short and middle-distance handicaps, junior races and woodchopping, culminating with the running of the men’s and women’s Wangaratta Gifts under lights. Woodchopping will again feature at this year’s carnival, with 12 events scheduled including junior, women’s and novice chops and featuring a crosscut saw event. The woodchopping starts at 11.00am and will showcase some of the best and upcoming competitors from across the country vying for a total prize pool of $6500. From 2.30pm attention will be on the main arena when the runners take centre stage. More than 20 events are scheduled across the action-packed program, with local athlete and current Stawell Gift champion Bella Pasquali leading the charge. Continuing to be an important fixture on the Victorian Athletic League calendar, prize money for this year’s event has increased by close to 25 per cent, attracting athletes from across the country hoping to take home
CHOP CHOP: Eliza and Fabian Harding will be part of the local talent at the woodchop as part of the Wangaratta Sports Carnival, vying for a total prize pool of $6500. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann a share of the total prize pool of more than $15,000. Once again entry is free to spectators to enjoy some of the best foot running and woodchopping in the state with the beautiful backdrop of the Wangaratta Showgrounds, with refreshments available throughout the carnival.
The running of the 2024 carnival has been made possible by the ongoing support of principal sponsors Yes Optus Wangaratta and the Rural City of Wangaratta, carnival partners VAL, Australian Physical Education Resources, RJ Sanderson & Associates, Kamwang, Win-
sec, Wangaratta Chronicle and Wangaratta Little Athletics, as well as generous support from local sponsors, members and the community. Wangaratta Sports Club president Paul Hughes said the committee was excited to be able to present the 103rd
edition of the carnival. “We are pleased to be able to increase the prize pool for the athletes this year, primarily assisted by the wonderful enthusiasm and support the event receives from right across the community,” he said.
Magpies and Colts to play under lights ■ From back page
“I think everyone missed it, that little break from cricket, it’s refreshed everyone, but everyone’s keen to get back in and start hitting balls again,” he said. “Unfortunately we’ve still got a few injuries somehow still – we thought, given the break, we’d be all refreshed. “It looks like ‘Malcs’ (Ryan Malcolm) is carrying a bit of an injury from the last game, and will need a little bit longer rest. “Other than that, we’re pretty much full strength, give or take one or two. “We’ve got guys who have played a fair bit of A grade playing in the reserve, just based on unavailability, so it’s a good opportunity for them and for us moving forward as well.” Colts’ captain Mitch Giggins said he was looking forward to seeing how the lights impacted the ball and pitch. “It’s very exciting, something different, and hopefully we get a bit of a crowd down here, a good little turnout would be good for the league,” he said. “I haven’t played under lights for a long time, so it’ll be interesting to see what the wicket does, given all the rain we’ve had. “It’s going to be fairly humid, so it should be a good contest with bat and ball. “Everyone’s available at this stage, so we should have everyone back for the first game.” Play between Wangaratta Magpies and City Colts will begin from 4pm this Saturday at Norm Minns Oval.
Hawks eyeing return to cricket against Tigers
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THE Christmas trees have been taken down and the glitter cleaned up from New Year, and it’s time for cricket to once again resume in the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association. The A grade and A reserve competitions will be the first to recommence this weekend, with players having been off the ground since December 16. Rovers United Bruck A grade skipper Paddy McNamara said the break was welcome, but he was eager to return to play. “It’s been a decent rest over the last couple of weeks, but we’re looking forward to getting back into it,’ he said. “This is where the real pointy end of the season comes along, and every game matters, so we’re looking forward to getting back into it. “We would’ve got (training) going on Tuesday night but we had to call that off unfortunately due to the rain. “There’s been a lot of boys who have been keen within the group, so we’ve had plenty of hits, whether it’s been one-on-one or three or four of us. “It’s been really good, so everyone should be in good nick come Saturday.” RUB will face a tall task on Saturday, up against a very strong Ovens Valley United squad with the white ball.
The Tigers have only dropped the single one day match this season, against Yarrawonga Mulwala back in round three. While McNamara will back his side in to make the runs and take the wickets, he said it would be a definite challenge for the squad. “There are a couple out due to people going away in the new year and whatnot, but we get a couple in for our game back,’ he said. “Jeremy Wilson will come back in which is always a great in, and we had a pretty solid twos side in last game, so we’ll push a few of those boys up who made a couple of runs. “The squad’s still looking pretty good, but we’re not quite at full strength yet. “We played them (OVU) about a month ago in the two-day format, and I can’t imagine their side would’ve changed too much from that. “They obviously adapt a lot better to one day cricket and it shows on the ladder, they’ve won four out of their five games in the one day format. “They’ll definitely be a challenge, and a good challenge to start us off.” In other A grade matches around the area, Delatite will play Yarrawonga Mulwala at Lords Reserve, Beechworth Wanderers will host Benalla Bushrangers, and Wangaratta Magpies will take on City Colts under lights at the Showgrounds.
READY TO WORK: Jacob Beattie and Rovers United Bruck’s A grade squad will aim for to kick off 2024 win a win over Ovens Valley United at home. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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PROUD PANTHERS: Bogie Panthers president Brad James (left) and vice captain Bill Webb. PHOTO: Dale Mann
Cricket
Soccer MASSIVE HONOUR: Wangaratta City legend Sam Sgarioto was recognised for his enormous work on and off the pitch for not only the Devils but also the AlburyWodonga Football Association. Sgarioto was one of three former Wangaratta players to be inducted into AWFA’s inaugural Hall of Fame. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
July
quarter time to a six goal advantage by the half, not daunted by the conditions and playing a longer style of netball.
Monday, July 3 Lions roar into top six WHOROULY’S senior footballers have reared their head into the Ovens and King Football League’s top six after a clinical 17.8 (110) to 7.5 (47) victory over Benalla All Blacks at the Whorouly Recreation Reserve on Saturday. The win came on an auspicious day, with the Lions hosting past players and celebrating a trio of milestones for loyal club members Cam Wood (250 senior games), Daniel White (200 senior games) and skipper Glenn White (250 club games).
Wednesday, July 5 Hat-trick for locals WANGARATTA trainers savoured a successful Corowa meeting with three local horsemen grabbing victories. Andrew Dale, Ben Brisbourne and Craig Weeding all returned winners from the seven race card on Monday afternoon.
Friday, July 7 The stage is set THE stage is set at the Norm Minns Oval for what shapes to be one of the best games of the year. It’s the grand final rematch between Wangaratta and Yarrawonga and with the third placed Magpies only a win below their opponents and ladder leaders, a victory would be huge.
Friday, July 14 Footy’s future is bright TOMORROW will be a showcase of unity and an investment in the future of local footy, when junior footballers suit up in the Ovens and King reserves football match between Milawa and Tarrawingee. The Junior Tigers will descend on the Milawa Recreation Reserve, with the under 14s playing their scheduled match against Mansfield as a curtain raiser before a group of 19 top and middle age under 17 players try their hand at Ovens and King footy.
Monday, July 17 Hoppers in the hunt MOYHU senior footballers strengthened their case for a finals berth on Saturday with a 15.8 (98) to 7.8 (50) win over fellow contenders King Valley. Both sides knew going into the match that whoever won would further their campaign into September, and with the middle of the ladder so tight, the game was a must-win for both camps.
Wednesday, July 19 Super six for locals THE weekend produced a whopping six winners for local horse trainers. Craig Weeding, Andrew Dale and Ben Brisbourne all had successful weekends at Wagga, Narrandera, Corowa and Echuca. Weeding’s Prince Of Helena ($6.50) was the highlight though, taking out race seven, the $50,000 Narrandera Cup (1600m) on Sunday.
Friday, July 21 Two more for ‘Manno’ THE Hawks have locked in star coach Steve Manning for another two seasons. Manning’s first year at the helm and first year in the Ovens and King league has been exemplary, launching the Hawks into legitimate finals contenders (fifth in seniors and reserves) from a run of challenging seasons.
Monday, July 24 Hawks eye off finals NORTH Wangaratta looks to be a serious contender in finals after producing a comprehensive victory over Tarrawingee at the Kennel, with
Wednesday, July 12 Roos triumph in must-win contest KING Valley remain in the hunt for an A grade finals berth after overcoming Whorouly for the second time this year, taking the win at home 43-38. On a cold and drizzly day at Whitfield, the Roos stretched a four goal lead at
Wednesday, July 26 Derby win for Devils WANGARATTA City got the result they were after against Myrtleford at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday. The rivalry between the two sides was on show but it was the Devils who proved too strong in the tight 2-1 contest.
Friday, July 28 Blues aiming to finish O&K season strong THEY’VE been nigh-untouchable in both grades this year, but Greta aren’t going to lose sleep if they don’t get the minor premiership. The senior Blues have only dropped a single match so far this year, their round 14 loss to Bright by five points in the wet, and currently sit second on the ladder just 59.3 percentage points behind Bonnie Doon.
Monday, July 31 Bombers too strong BONNIE Doon firmed as flag contenders with a comprehensive 23.29 (167) to 1.1 (7) win over North Wangaratta on Saturday, with Bomber Luke Murray booting 10 goals in a dominant display of firepower. Early chances went begging for the Bombers, only leading by two goals with a host of minor scores, 2.6 to North Wangaratta’s solitary goal.
Monday, July 10 One-point thriller LAST year’s O&M grand final rematch lived up to expectations in what was one of the games of the season thus far at the Norm Minns Oval on Saturday. Wangaratta’s clash against Yarrawonga was expected to be a tight tussle but no one would’ve predicted a one point margin at the final siren.
Friday, August 4 Enduring generosity lifts raceway to best in state
the Hawks home comfortably 27.26 (178) to 8.6 (54). A nine goal first quarter all but secured the result, as the Hawks controlled the ball and fed it cleanly into their forwards.
Wednesday, August 2 Michelini marvels in remarkable milestone
UNDER PRESSURE: Kangaroos’ star Urban Holt tries to get a kick past Junior Magpies’ Archie Johnson in the u12’s clash at Wareena Park on Saturday morning. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
For news, results, events & information
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Monday, August 7 Hoppers a lock THE finalists for the 2023 Ovens and King senior football season have been locked in. Moyhu has secured its position in the six after a 15.10 (100) to 10.4 (64) triumph over the Lions at Whorouly on Saturday.
Wednesday, August 9 King Valley home to Davies family affair MARIE and Murray Evans sat proudly along the fence-line at Whitfield Recreation Reserve at the weekend, as years of recruiting efforts finally saw five of their grandsons don the blue and white of King Valley together for the first time. The five Davies brothers, made up of older brother Charlie, 29, and two sets of twins, Jack and Bill, 27 and Harry and Tom, 24 realised a life-long dream as they took to the field against Bonnie Doon on Saturday, marking the third generation of the family’s involvement with the King Valley side.
Friday, August 11 Reid re-signs for 2024 BEN Reid has re-signed as Wangaratta coach for the 2024 season. Reid will go on for a third year as coach after signing with the ‘Pies for the 2022 season and taking them all the way to the grand final.
August
Junior football
FOR the first time since its inception 55 years ago, the Wangaratta City Speedway has been recognised as the best track in the state. The speedway took out the Speedway Sedans Victoria (SSV) 2023 Track of the Year at their awards ceremony last weekend, while also being a finalist for the national Speedway Sedans Australia (SSA) Track of the Year award.
A CELEBRATION of loyalty and dedication like no other was held at Milawa last Saturday as Kim Michelini brought up 650 club games in style. The 53 year-old mother of four played all four quarters at goal shooter in the B reserve, showing some vintage form to lead the team with 21 goals at 72 per cent shooting and snatch a 50-36 win in the milestone game against Benalla.
Monday, August 14 Blues lock top two GRETA locked in a top two finish with a clinical 18.6 (114) to 9.9 (63) win over Milawa in challenging conditions. Midweek rain caused the ground at the Milawa Recreation Reserve to be heavy underfoot, but the Blues took the game on early, booting five goals while the Demons failed to make the most of their chances.
www.aflneb.com.au @AFLNEB
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Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta Showgrounds, Wangaratta Ph: 03 5722 1993 | Wodonga Ph: 02 6056 1993
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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024 - Page 27
CLOSE WATCH: Phil Winnell hits his approach shot at the Wangaratta Golf Club on Saturday morning with playing partner Craig Donoghue watching on. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
Wednesday, August 16 Magpies downed by inform outfit WANGARATTA couldn’t get over the Ovens and Murray A grade netball’s most in-form side’s. Going into the clash Lavington had won five straight including wins over premiership favourite Yarrawonga and top five outfit Myrtleford, and they only added to that streak against the Magpies on Saturday.
Friday, August 18 Cooper set to shine at nationals COOPER Newton will be looking to lead his state to gold at the 16 and under School Sport Australia Basketball Championships. The 16 year old will be flying to Perth today with the squad of 10 as they prepare to go up against some of the nation’s finest young stars of the game.
Monday, August 21 Bright downs Dees BRIGHT’S senior football side overcame an uncharacteristically poor first half to take a 9.13 (67) to 8.6 (54) win over a charging Milawa squad at Pioneer Park on Saturday. Inaccuracies by the Mountain Men early held the door open for the Demons, as Milawa’s outside players controlled the pace of the game and delivered cleanly to their forwards.
Wednesday, August 23 Clement sits among state’s finest WANGARATTA Magpies’ Chris Clement has capped off a stunning return to cricket, having been recently named in the Victorian Country Cricket League’s team of the year. The left arm speedster wreaked havoc on batting lineups throughout the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association in 2022/23, as he snagged 39 A grade wickets at a miserly average of 5.41, taking four wickets or more on five different occasions.
Friday, August 25 Devils are geared up for quarter-final showdown WANGARATTA City are set for their first final of 2023, taking on Albury
Golf Hotspurs at Jelbart Park. The Devils looked certain to face Melrose in the quarter-final, however, an 11-1 win to Hotspurs and a 6-0 loss to Albury City for Melrose was enough to push the Spurs up into fifth spot.
Monday, August 28 Bright too strong BRIGHT’S senior football side will be thanking their lucky stars they had enough on the board to get over the line against a surging Moyhu outfit in the second half. The Mountain Men progressed to the senior semi-final after their 12.19 (91) to 10.4 (64) win over the Hoppers on Saturday at Tarrawingee.
Wednesday, August 30 Wang City through to semi-final WANGARATTA City has booked themselves a blockbuster semi-final clash against Albury United at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday. The Devils welcomed a number of troops back for their quarter-final against Albury Hotspurs and they proved too classy grabbing a 3-1 win at Jelbart Park.
September Friday, September 1 Blues or ‘Doon
LEGACY: Greta secured a fifth straight A grade title in the Ovens and King league decider. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
their quest for history is now one win away. Going in against Milawa as slight underdogs at Tarrawingee on Saturday afternoon, the two netball heavyweights could barely be separated going into half-time as the Blues held onto a one goal advantage.
Friday, September 8 History-making win WANGARATTA City superstar Beth Cope has taken out AWFA’s division one women’s Star Player award. Cope became the first ever Devils player to win the award in the division one women, running away to a mammoth 16 vote victory.
Monday, September 11 ‘Pies into prelim WANGARATTA’S finals experience prevailed over a brave Wodonga outfit in Sunday’s O&M senior football semi-final at Bunton Park. The Magpies are through to next weekend’s preliminary final against Albury thanks to an unlikely four goals from backman turned forward Matt Grossman in the 11.7 (73) to 7.14 (56) win.
Wednesday, September 13 History repeats as Dees down Dogs in the prelim THE Ovens and King A grade appears to be stuck in a time loop,
Netball
after Saturday’s preliminary final at Tarrawingee saw Milawa best the Bulldogs to book a match against Greta in the grand final, just like last year. However, the scoreline was much closer this time around, with the Demons only managing to get the job done by a single goal, 46-45.
Friday, September 15 Massive stakes
Friday, September 22 Rovers thirds gunning for premiership win
Monday, September 18
Monday, September 25 Hawks’ hearts broken
Magpies bow out A FINAL quarter surge has seen Albury bundle Wangaratta out of the Ovens and Murray finals series. Albury slammed on nine second half goals to one in which eight of those were unanswered in the 14.15 (99) to 8.10 (58) affair at Birallee Park on Sunday afternoon.
GRETA are into a fifth consecutive Ovens and King netball grand final, as
LEAPING LIZARDS: Wangaratta City’s Oscar O’Keefe tries to send a shot to the back of the net in his side’s 3-1 win over Albury City at Jelbart Park on Sunday. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
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WANGARATTA Rovers thirds had their hearts broken in Sunday’s grand final at the Lavington Sportsground. The Hawks and Lavington couldn’t be split in the first half with the clash never venturing further than a couple of goals either way.
Wednesday, September 27 Purss to lead
Friday, September 29 Graham, Clarke to stay on with Dees
No ice needed...
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WANGARATTA Rovers thirds are just one win away from claiming the 2023 premiership. After finishing on top of the ladder and winning their way through to a qualifying final against Lavington where a win would’ve secured a grand final berth, the Hawks fell.
TRISTAN Purss will coach the Wangaratta Warriors women’s CBL side for the upcoming season, and he’s eager to see what his new charges can do. A keen footballer and basketballer, Purss has experience taking his teams to the highest of highs, most notably coaching Myrtleford’s thirds footballers to a drought-breaking flag in 2019.
Monday, September 4 Hot Dogs run rampant to end Rovers’ season
Wednesday, September 6 Greta’s there again
WANGARATTA Rovers under 18’s gun Riley Allan has taken out the Leo Dean Medal at the O&M’s Morris and Toni Wilson Medal night on Monday. Allan polled 22 votes in his huge win that could be made even sweeter with a victory in Sunday’s grand final as his team takes on Lavington.
A SPOT in the Ovens and Murray grand final is up for grabs for Wangaratta on Sunday. The Magpies’ senior footballers will be looking to play in a fifth straight decider after featuring on the season’s biggest day in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2022. It won’t be an easy task though with Albury standing in their way, the team that downed Wangaratta two weeks ago in the qualifying final by four goals.
EITHER Bonnie Doon or Greta will win their way to a grand final berth tomorrow at the Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve. The two top footy squads in the senior competition will go head to head after taking the first week of the finals off.
WANGARATTA Rovers’ senior footballers’ season came to a crushing halt yesterday, with a 40 point loss to Wodonga. Heading across the road to Norm Minns Oval for the elimination final to conclude Wangaratta’s festival of footy, the Dogs were all over the Hawks from the first bounce, kicking five of the first six goals and never looked back.
Wednesday, September 20 Rovers gun wins u18’s league B&F
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Soccer
MILAWA’S coaching dynamic duo will go around again in the top job with the Dees through the 2024 Ovens and King season. The club confirmed Matt Graham and Ben Clarke will retain the senior coaching position on their Facebook page on Sunday. October, November and December Sports Year In Review in Monday, January 8 edition
Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 5, 2024
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Locals thrive at race meet
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Page 24
WE’RE BACK FATHER-daughter duo Fabian and Eliza Harding are eager to be back for the woodchop at the 103rd running of the Wangaratta Sports Carnival set for the showgrounds on Saturday, January 27. More details on page 25. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
Light up the night Wangaratta W g tt M Magpies gpi and d City C Colts lt tto pl playy one-dayer -d y under d light lights att N Norm Mi Minns O Ovall THE first A grade match of the year at Norm Minns Oval will take on an exciting atmosphere this Saturday, when Wangaratta Magpies and City Colts go head to head under lights. Commencing from 4pm, some three hours later than usual, the two sides will play into the evening, illuminated
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
by the light towers at the Wangaratta Showgrounds in a one day match. Magpies’ skipper Jack Davies said the different play time would be an interest-
ing way to recommence the cricket season. “It’ll be a good atmosphere for us, something a little bit different, but nothing really changes with the way we go about things with bat or ball or in the field,” he said. “We played one a long time ago, we’ve tried to do it in the past where we’re tried
to play Friday night or Saturday night under lights, but it just hasn’t eventuated. “Given the facilities and a mutual feeling with the Colts boys, they wanted to do something a little bit different and try and get a game under lights, and it worked for both sides this time.” The Magpies will be striv-
ing for a win to revitalise their season, sitting sixth on both the one day and two day ladders. Last time the two sides faced off with the white ball, the ‘Pies suffered a harrowing collapse, falling from 1/78 to all out for 105. The Colts, for their part, are thriving at second on the
overall ladder, having won four of their six shot form matches against quality opposition. Davies said the Colts would no doubt be a challenge, but he backed in his squad’s depth and talent to take the win after the Christmas break. ■ Continued page 25
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