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Police identify alleged smash, grab jewellery thieves

Monday, February 5, 2024

Phone (03) 5723 0100

Market lifts at Wangaratta blue ribbon heifer sale Page 3

Magpies are on the march

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Sport

CHEV FAMILY COOPER (left), Paige, Cindy and Wayne Branson were at Sunday’s Wangaratta Rod & Custom Club meet and greet that had about 60 people enjoy a barbecue and a yarn at the showgrounds, in preparation for the upcoming bi-annual Rod Run on the Labor Day weekend from March 8-11. The Branson family brought along three vehicles (pictured), including the red 1951 Chev, yellow 1940 Chev, and grey 1954 Chev. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Housing market activity humming along despite tougher times Established Es ablished proper properties ies in Wangara Wangaratta a dis district ric con continue inue to o change hands during January SECOND time home buyers and farmers have been dominating the Wangaratta housing market with numerous properties changing hands during the first month of the year, according to Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate director/principal Joe McKenzie. Nutrien Harcourts has been selling multiple

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

residential, rural and commercial properties, with numerous buyers undeterred by interest rates reaching a 12-year high prompted by a cash rate of 4.35 per cent. While borrowing is more difficult than what it was 18

months ago, Mr McKenzie said they’re back to more traditional ratios in terms of savings and buyer capacity to service loans. “January has been really good and anything that’s priced attractive to the market place is strong,” he said. While there was a little uncertainty from Nutrien Harcourts heading into the New Year, in terms of the level

of activity to be expected, the local real estate market has been reasonably buoyant. With high interest rates, first home buyers are virtually non-existent at this point in time and based on recent sales Mr McKenzie said the properties have been selling to second home buyers, with commercial selling to people who are “pretty ready to go” financially.

“We had a rural property sell to neighbours, one in Oleander Terrace went to a second home buyer, Steane Street went to people downsizing, and anything central and close to the hospital and CBD is popular,” he said. “Some of the residential properties that have sold through Nutrien Harcourts in January were priced at $660k,

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$639k, $635k, $475k, and $515k.” Real Estate Institute of Victoria data for the December quarter shows the median sale price for Wangaratta was at $510k, down 1.4pc, and this compares to the regional Vic figures of $616k and +1.7pc, but based on last year’s trend, this is set to climb. ■ Continued page 2

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Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Emergency response speeds up across North East

Power outage affects 4700 Wangaratta customers By CHLOE JAENICKE POWER outages in Wangaratta on Friday were caused by a blown underground cable in Pelican Court. An AusNet spokesperson said 4700 customers had their power disrupted at 8am, with power restored to the majority within 10 minutes. Some 500 customers were without power until 1pm. “The cable was isolated and repairs will be undertaken at a later date - we apologies for the inconvenience caused,” the spokesperson said.

LIGHTS and sirens ambulance responses across the rural city have improved by nine seconds on average in the last 12 months, corresponding with a marked decrease in demand throughout the region. New data released by Ambulance Victoria for the second quarter of 2023/24 indicated some 561 patients had required a ‘code one’ emergency response by paramedics between October 1 and December 31, with ambulances arriving within 16 minutes and one second on average. Some 67.4 per cent of code one patients were reached within Ambulance Victoria’s

15-minute target, a 3.2pc improvement on the same quarter last year. Twelve months ago, some 606 patients required an emergency callout, with crews on scene within 16 minutes and 10 seconds on average. Improvements were also seen in code two non-emergency response times across the rural city, with local units shaving almost 3.5 minutes off their 45 minute and 17 second average in Q2 of 2022/23 despite treating 40 more patients than last year. Across the state, the average response time to code one emergencies fell to below 15

minutes for the first time in more than two years, while Indigo, Mansfield, Benalla and Wodonga shires were among the state’s biggest improvers. Indigo Shire saw the second largest improvement in the state as paramedics attended 34.5pc of code one patients within 15 minutes only 12 months after attending a stateworst 19.6pc of patients in a timely manner. In the most recent data, average response times fell to 21 minutes and 24 seconds, almost four minutes quicker than the same time last year. Alpine Shire paramedics also shaved 50 seconds off last

year’s average response time, while Strathbogie Shire paramedics were on scene almost a minute quicker on average. Ambulance Victoria Hume regional director Steve Doyle said the progress across the state was encouraging. “The productivity commission’s recent report on government services shows Victoria has Australia’s most trusted paramedics and leads the nation in cardiac arrest survival and pain management,” he said. “Our dedicated paramedics and first responders are to be commended for the outstanding care they deliver to communities across the state.”

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

FUEL STOP: This AMPOL service station in Byrne Street, Moyhu was one of the more unique commercial properties Nutrien Harcourts sold recently.

TEMPERATURES: Monday

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Established properties continue to change hands during January

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RAINFALL: Wangaratta Lake Buffalo Cheshunt

IMMACULATE: This Templeton Street home built in the early 1900s is on the market for $1.8 million.

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Mr McKenzie said properties that have sold range from 100 acres out of town for $1.25 million, the AMPOL service station at Moyhu, and a one acre property over $1m. Although he said rural sales are about 20 per cent down on this time last year, properties between $950k and $1.1m have

sold and people who want to buy land to make a profit off the cattle can make a go of it. “Cattle prices are up and instead of steers averaging $1000 to $1200 in early January, they will be up to about $1100 to $1350,” Mr McKenzie predicted. “Heifers are also expected to rise and instead of them making $1000, I think they’ll

make $1200-$1300.” There is belief that with higher prices there’s more incentive for farming neighbours to buy nearby blocks, but Mr McKenzie said it’s getting hard for smaller operators to borrow too much money and get into lifestyle farming. Harcourts is seeing an average of properties on

market for about 40-50 days and he said the average in Wangaratta is about 90-95 days according to realestate.com, in contrast to about seven days on market two years ago. “As a company we want to keep it at 40-50 days and to do that you need to make sure you’re having pretty candid chats with owners on a regular basis,” he said.

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Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission. The Chronicle is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Chronicle itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

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New home buyers sit and wait for better times Slowdown in new homes market with elevated costs,, interest rates

A LIVELY interest in the Wangaratta established homes market has been noticeable by some people in the real estate and finance industries over the last month with a shortage of subdivided land and many first home buyers currently priced out of the new homes market. Housing Industry Australia has predicted that new starts are expected to fall to just 95,370 detached houses in 2024, the lowest number since 2012. ABS data released on Friday shows there were only 51,570 loans issued in 2023 for the construction or purchase of a new home, less than half the number of loans issued just two years earlier in 2021. HIA senior economist Tom Devitt said “the steepest RBA rate hiking cycle in a generation has compounded the el-

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

evated costs of home building, seeing potential home buyers squeezed out of the market and fewer new homes commencing construction”. There are varying predictions about when interest rates will begin to fall, with some commentary predicting cuts soon, albeit unlikely, based on a downward trend in retail spending over Christmas. Interest rates appear to have reached their peak, and with inflation at a two-year low of 4.1 per cent, some economists say a cut to the reserve bank cash rate could arrive in the back half of 2024. Wangaratta’s Winsec Savings & Loans director Tony Ruvolo said there seems to be a slowdown in the building trade and

young people aren’t buying land and building homes. He said this is despite the first home buyers’ grant of $10,000 and there are low deposit schemes that offset lenders’ insurance. “I think they are too scared because they see the horror stories about builders going under nationally, and another one, Montego Homes, recently,” he said. “Servicing rates at the bank are also prohibitive for young people to build and what we’re seeing is more enquiries for established homes.” People look to refinance their home loans but the servicing of the loan is not there due to the higher interest rates. Mr Ruvolo gave some advice to young people and sometimes it’s better the devil you know with an option to go

back to your existing bank and ask for a lower variable rate and some banks are proactive in retention of customers, but others aren’t. “To buy a block of land in Wangaratta is $280k-$300k, if you can find one, and then to build a house the total cost will be up to well over $600k,” he said. “Traditional Yarrunga homes are in the $300ks now and a 1940s brick veneer in the west end is about 600k. “The market has lifted at that end and we’re finding more activity and I spoke to a young couple and they’re finding that homes come on the market in the mid-$500ks and they’re gone nearly straight away. “I don’t think we’re doom and gloom as previously portrayed, but people are still cautious.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 3

Two men identified in smash and grab investigation, still at large Nearbyy shop p owners speak p about alleged g daylight y g robberyy at Wangaratta g Co-store jjewellers BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

POLICE have identified two men linked to an alleged armed robbery at a Wangaratta jewellery store on Thursday afternoon, although arrests were yet to be made as of noon Friday. Two Caucasian males are believed to have entered Prouds the Jewellers at the Wangaratta Co-Store around 1.10pm, before using a hammer to smash display cabinets and steal a small quantity of gold jewellery. On Friday, Senior Constable Aidan Hogan confirmed the two males were not from Wangaratta, and their whereabouts remained unknown following the smash and grab. The pair is believed to have left the scene in a black SUV along Faithfull Street and towards Wilson Road. Detectives completed fingerprinting at the site on Thursday afternoon, and were canvassing CCTV footage from the vicinity. Signs adorning the Prouds the Jewellers storefront indicated the premises would be closed to customers until further notice, however, staff were seen conversing behind the counter of the store on Friday morning. Staff at nearby grocer La Bella Rocca were caught up in the chaos of the alleged robbery, with attendant Mel

CLOSED FOR BUSINESS: Prouds the Jewellers at the Wangaratta Co-Store was closed on Friday with the sign reading “We are closed until further notice. Sorry for the inconvenience. Will will open as soon as we can.” It follows Thursday’s alleged armed robbery at the store. PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm Seymour praising the police response, noting officers and detectives were on the scene within five minutes. Across the arcade, Toyworld owner Bill Michalowski said he had been alerted to the incident when the Co-Store’s alarms sounded and a nearby fire door was closed.

Having operated the store for some five years, Mr Michalowski said it was a “sad” incident for the community. “We weren’t aware of what happened – eventually the evacuation happened and over a period of time we realised what had happened,” he said.

“It’s not something you’d expect here in Wangaratta, but we’re obviously not immune to it, which is sad. “The main concern is the ladies (at Prouds) – that they’re okay. “That’s the hard thing – it’s not what’s stolen, it’s what’s happened and how it’s going to affect them –

Court plea anticipated in wake of Rutherglen-Springhurst Road fatal A RUTHERGLEN woman alleged to have killed a cyclist while driving dangerously on Rutherglen-Springhurst Road last January is expected to plead to the offending this week. The accused, in her early 20s, is expected to front the Wodonga County Court on Wednesday to plead to a charge of dangerous driving causing death following the January 27 incident. 59-year-old Rutherglen cyclist Tony Reeckman died at the scene of the alleged

crash, which occurred around 8.20am. In a pre-trial mention on Thursday, justice Peter Rozen said he planned to hear the plea and a summary of the alleged offending on Wednesday in Wodonga, in order to allow Mr Reeckman’s family to read their victim impact statements to the court. The matter will then return to the border in early April, when two days were set aside to allow justice Rozen to pass down his sentence.

that’s probably the main concern for most of us. “From what I’ve gleaned a lot of people thought somebody had come off a scooter – no one was really able to put two and two together until they realised what had happened – it’s not something you would expect but as I said, the main concern

is the staff are okay.” Prouds the Jewellers head office and Co-Store management were both contacted for comment, but declined. Anyone with information on the alleged incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com. au.

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Defence counsel Jo Swiney told the court her client had been seeing a psychologist in the wake of the crash, and had a preliminary post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis which would need to be confirmed before the matter returns in April. She said the matter involved a “very young person” who was likely to be jailed for the alleged offending. “This is a very serious matter and defence are very conscious of the family of the deceased,” she told the court.

DON

Man avoids injury after alleged drink drive smash on Hume Freeway A 28-YEAR-OLD man from Wallan has been lucky to walk away unscathed after allegedly rear-ending a semi-trailer on the Hume Freeway while almost four times the legal alcohol limit on Thursday night. A police spokesperson said the man had been driving near Wangaratta

around 9.30pm when his white Hyundai i30 allegedly crashed into the rear of the truck. The man did not suffer any injuries and remained at the scene, before later returning an alleged breath alcohol reading of 0.192. He was subsequently summonsed to appear at

the Wangaratta Magistrates Court for numerous trafficrelated offences. Anyone who witnessed the collision or the manner of driving by the Hyundai is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or contact Senior Constable Baker at the Wangaratta Police Station on 5723 0888.

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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The next generation of rural doctors

STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: Wangaratta GP Dr Paul Molina Chavez has welcomed the State Government’s incentive package for GPs in training. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

GP training boost “step in right direction” W Wangaratta-based b d Vi Victorian i GP off the h Y Year welcomes new ggrant p program g WANGARATTA-based Victorian general practitioner of the year Dr Paul Molina Chavez believes the State Government’s new incentive package for GPs in training is a vital step forward. Dr Molina Chavez, who in September was named the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Victorian GP of the Year, is practice principal at Green Street’s Wangaratta Medical Centre. He welcomed the State Government’s recent announcement that 400 grants would be available this year, with another 400 to follow in 2025, to support GPs in training. The RACGP, the peak representative organisation for general practice, will administer the majority of the grants on behalf of the State Government, with the aim of increasing the number of GP trainee enrolments. The program will provide a top-up payment of $30,000 for first-year trainees, and $10,000 to support the costs of exams to be undertaken during GP training. The grants will be awarded to eligible doctors who have started a GP training program in Victoria in 2024 and 2025, as well as doctors who commenced GP training in Victoria in 2023 who applied, enrolled and were accepted on or after November 27, 2022. Grants comprise a maximum of $40,000, and will be delivered in three instalment

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

payments over 24 months. Eligible 2024 GP trainees are now able to apply for a chance to receive one of the grants, after applications opened on February 5. Dr Molina Chavez hopes the grant program will encourage more medical graduates to choose general practice as their specialty training. “It is very important, and is definitely a step in the right direction,” he said. “General practice, including GP training, has been under-funded for a long time; what trainees in hospitals receive is more than what GP registrars can get training in general practice. “So this is definitely a step in the right direction to try and bridge that gap.” Dr Molina Chavez said the incentive package could be particularly beneficial for regional areas, where recruitment and retention of GPs was an ongoing concern. “As a region, we have had issues with GP shortages for many years,” he said. “This will help incentivise people to move into general practice, and perhaps then stay on in regional areas. “Hopefully it has been widely advertised to medical students that this program is available to them. “It is being provided for

2024 and ‘25 at this stage, and we hope it will be ongoing - or that changes will be made to the way GP registrars are paid.” RACGP Victoria chair Dr Anita Munoz also backed the move to boost the state’s GP workforce. “A healthy GP workforce is essential for a healthy Victoria - GPs keep people out of hospital,” she said. “I’m pleased the government has provided these grants for GPs in training, and I hope it encourages more future doctors into general practice. “Being a GP is one of the most rewarding careers in medicine. “The connection to patients and the community and the variety of work in a GP’s day is unique compared with other specialties. “We get to see our patients go through all the life stages and milestones, and we’re there not just when they’re sick, we’re helping keep them well. “I hope our Premier, Jacinta Allan, will be doing all she can to make sure Victoria’s general practice workforce remains strong, and general practice is affordable and accessible to everyone in our state.” More details about the program are available at https://www.racgp.org.au/ the-racgp/faculties/vic/victorian-gp-trainee-grant or https://www.health.vic.gov. au/general-practitionersgrant-program

NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) has welcomed 16 new interns to start their 12 month intern year. The prevocational doctors will be completing rotations in medicine, surgery, emergency and rehab within the local community in primary health care. Three of the 16 - Will Keenan, Samuel Mclean and Jason Stiles - are Wangaratta locals who have grown up in the area. Jason went to Glenrowan Primary School and Wangaratta High School and chose NHW for internship due to its supportive culture for junior doctors. “NHW is a great training hospital, and I completed my studies here, so it was an easy choice as number one,” he said. Being part of the Melbourne University rural clinical school, Jason has completed many of his placements locally. “Having grown up here, having family nearby, I love the area for its hikes and access to the mountains,” he said. “All my friends from medical school also fell in love with the area and it was an easy choice in the end.” Jason said he decided to become a doctor to move to a more clinical role from his previous job as a medical scientist.

LOCAL INTERNS: Will Keenan, Samuel Mclean and Jason Stiles all grew up in Wangaratta and are now interns at NHW. He hopes to work rurally in the future and to learn some more practical skills through the internship. “This year I just want to focus on learning the most I can from internship and using some practical skills in the emergency department,” he said. “I have an interest in critical care but infectious diseases ties in well with my previous role as a scientist.“ Samuel was born in

Wangaratta and is keen to continue to be a part of the rural community and is still heavily involved in his parents’ cattle farm. He did his placement at NHW in 2023 and recognised the organisation for its “exceptional support for junior doctors”. The interns will be undertaking an induction before being staggered into clinical shifts across the organisation.

Grandson inspired Glen to write Tamworth’s top song

Monday, February 3, 2014 By STEVE KELLY AN avid interest in writing lyrics aimed at children has won Wangaratta grandmother Glen Naylor the Song of the Year at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Glen drew inspiration from her 11 year old grandson Conway to write the song ‘Where does a wombat live’, that was good enough to get the nod of approval from the festival judges in the Australian salute section. Her nomination was narrowed down to the top five entries and she was lucky enough to be selected. Together with seasoned musician Chris Wilson, the duo has dabbled in other genres as well, including jazz and love ballads. It is not only Australian competitions Glen has entered, with three of her songs reaching the top eight finalists in Dallas, USA. “Conway has been my inspiration to start

N TUNE: Wangaratta’s Glen Naylor has captured her imagination in recent years to write kid’s songs, one of which on her CD (inset) has one just won Song of the Year at the Tamworth Music Festival. PHOTO: Luke Plummer writing and the idea of the song simply came with him asking where does a wombat live?” Glen said. “I’ve always had a fascination with poetry and literature and the words just usually flow. “My grandparents were into literature and my grandfather used to recite Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson verbatim standing up by the dinner table.” Glen’s connection to Australian history is strong as she’s a direct descendant of the first known settler to navigate the Murray River, William Richard Randell. Success from the outset

with writing songs has catapulted her into what she now labels as an obsession. “I have done a mix of everything you can think of and I love anything Australian, which Americans absolutely love,” she said. “The title song on my CD, The bonza bobby dazzler bush band, absolutely blew them away in the USA.” ‘Five o’clock shadow’ is a song Glen wrote about the Anzacs and she said this too has had massive airplay. To find out how to buy any of Glen’s songs go to www.bonzabobbydazzler. com.

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THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 5

Beef continues to bounce back Confidence ggrowing g in local cattle market as Blue Ribbon Weaner sales see big g returns

MARKET CLIMB: Corcoran Parker Wangaratta agent Reiley Murtagh with a pen of 21 heifers belonging to Docker farmers Tony and Janine Simpson. Weighing 371kg on average, the pen fetched $3.91/kg. PHOTOS: Ryan Malcolm

BRAINS TRUST: Each of the early pens was hotly contested by a number of buyers

STRONG NUMBERS: A good crowd gathered at the Wangaratta Stock Exchange on Friday morning as some 3000 head of cattle was yarded.

THE market for cattle in the North East continued to rebound late last week, on the back of two wildly successful Blue Ribbon Weaner sales. Almost 8000 head of cattle were yarded at the Wangaratta Stock Exchange across Wednesday’s steer and Friday’s heifer sales, which Corcoran Parker Wangaratta agent Reiley Murtagh said was a sign the market was on the climb and confidence was returning for both buyers and sellers. Friday morning’s sale saw some 3000 bred heifers carry significant value, with high-quality breeding cattle rising to a high of $4.26/ kg, a figure Mr Murtagh said was “miles in front” of January’s blue ribbon sale returns. “We all knew the job was going to be strong but it was an excellent line of cattle – grown cattle and young weaners – which were very sought after,” he said. “It’s definitely on the climb – the market’s definitely very solid compared to what has been happening – there’s been a lot more confidence and people are taking calculated risks and getting more of a platform back in the industry. “The weather’s been heating up and there’s not that much to go (in the season) – February’s a short month and then we’re into March and into a bit of an

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

autumn break. “If we do get that autumn break, which is looking like it’s going to happen, it’s going to be very solid in the cattle industry, and I don’t think we’ll see it slip from where it is now.” On Friday, feeder cattle between 380 and 440kg fetched between $3 and $3.50/kg, while coloured heifers attracted regular prices 20c either side of $3/ kg. Mr Murtagh said established breeders were regularly bringing in prices around $4/kg for weaned heifers, while secondary cattle such as Black Baldy stock returned anywhere from $3.40 to $3.80/kg. A pen of 21 heifers at an average of 371kg belonging to Docker farmers Tony and Janine Simpson was tipped as one of Corcoran Parker’s lead offerings, selling at $3.91/kg. “They sold very well,” Mr Murtagh said. At Wednesday’s steer sale, prices were said to have improved by up to $300/ head on the exchange’s early January blue ribbon sale. The high demand for local stock was linked to high rainfall in the north of the country, with buyers travelling from northern New South Wales and Queensland to buy from local producers.

Man on remand amid alleged threats to pedestrians A WANGARATTA man accused of threatening and swinging his fists at pedestrians in a series of unprovoked attacks has been told his alleged offending would likely carry a lengthy jail term. The 39-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Thursday seeking a sentence indication for the alleged offending, which was detailed to the court by police pros-

ecutor Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson. LSC Williamson said police had spoken to the accused in November, after he allegedly threw a punch at a 66-year-old man walking along Rowan Street, while the accused was also said to have lunged at a woman outside of a Wangaratta service station in December. Both times he made full admissions to the offending,

according to LSC Williamson. He was also alleged to have threatened an elderly woman on Ford Street early last month, repeatedly waving his fists in her direction and exhibiting “erratic behaviour”. On January 9 he was alleged to have forced entry into a woman’s home on Perry Street, taking a shower at the premises prior to an altercation with the occupant,

whom he told police was a friend. He allegedly slapped the woman, and was found by police in the woman’s bed. Upon being charged and bailed, he allegedly attended Wangaratta’s Woolworths store and set a metal garbage bin alight, before confronting a worker as they tried to exit their car and telling them “that’s my fire”. LSC Williamson said the

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accused had lashed out upon his arrest, repeatedly kicking an officer and threatening to take their tactical equipment. Defence lawyer Nancy Battiato said her client received a monthly injection to treat psychosis, and had suffered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving with the military in the early 2000s. Magistrate Ian Watkins

said the alleged offending was “top-end”, and sought further medical materials on the accused before the matter returns to court today. “Shopping at Woolworths shouldn’t be a high-risk activity,” he told the court. “A stranger approaching an elderly person outside Big W and throwing their fists around – that would be petrifying.”

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Housing market the root of the economy INTEREST rates appear to be maxed out and the only way is down now. The question is when will they start to decline and how much more financial pain will millions of Australians have to endure? Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said ABS data released on Friday painted a troubling picture for the national housing landscape. She said with the release of data on inflation, building approvals, lending indicators, and building materials prices, it’s evident that the trajectory is veering off course, exacerbating the existing housing crisis. New homes are not within reach of many people attempting to enter the market. This is not helped by the rising cost of building materials, with another 0.3 per cent increase in the December quarter. The more staggering figure is that building materials are now one third more expensive than pre-pandemic. In original terms, the total number of loans issued for the construction or purchase of new homes in 2023 declined in all jurisdictions compared to the previous year, with a 26.2pc drop in Victoria. The latest inflation figures show rental price pressure remains as the demand remains high and the supply is still lacking. Wangaratta does certainly have subdivided land waiting in the wings for development, and when these areas are released in the north-west and south, it should significantly address the shortage of supply. While trying to meet the 1.2 million dwellings target for Australia over the next five years, governments must also not forget regional areas which are struggling just as much as city and metro.

The Quiz No. 71 1. What was the former name of the Indian city called Chennai? 2. Which Charles Dickens novel features the character, Mr Geoffrey Haredale? 3. In which 2016 animated movie did Shakira provide the voice for the character named Gazelle? 4. Who was the first female Governor of Western Australia? 5. Lindesnes is the southernmost point of which European country? 6. What is the US equivalent to Old Kent Road in Monopoly? 7. In which two years did Grant Hackett win the Olympic gold medal for the 1500m? 8. By what name is Tara Leigh Patrick better known? 9. The Lily, Australia’s only working traditional windmill, is located in which town in the Great Southern region of Western Australian? 10. What type of sandwiches were the favourite food of the cartoon character, Count Duckula? 11. What is the is the fifth planet from the Sun in our solar system? 12. On which island are the UK-administered areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia located? 13. How many Prime Ministers of Australia were there in 1945? 14. Which band had the 2001 hit, Drops Of Jupiter? 15. Who was the first pilot to officially break the sound barrier? 16. Which two countries have names which start with the letter Z? 17. Before joining the Fremantle Dockers as coach in 2011, Ross Lyon coached which AFL team? 18. Which member of the comedy group, Monty Python, wrote the 1998 novel, The Road to Mars? 19. Christine Keeler is famous for which British political scandal? 20. Which TV series featured the character, Dr. John Michael “J.D.” Dorian? 1. Madras 2. Barnaby Rudge 3. Zootopia 4. Kerry Sanderson 5. Norway 6. Mediterranean Avenue 7. 2000, 2004 8. Carmen Electra 9. Amelup 10. Broccoli sandwiches 11. Jupiter 12. Cyprus 13. Three 14. Train 15. Chuck Yeager 16. Zambia, Zimbabwe 17. St Kilda Saints 18. Eric Idle 19. Profumo affair 20. Scrubs Compiled by Ric Allport – www.brainfoodfactory.com – Challenge your Brain

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the alleged smash and grab armed robbery at the Wangaratta Co-Store.

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Ricky Iles: I was there a few hours before the robbery. Amanda Chrystal: Very scary stuff. Jason J Castagna. Shannon Jarvis: Bianca Bodger I was there in the co store!!!! Margie Moore: Thoughts are with the staff, as no one should feel unsafe (especially

•

earning an income) Jody Davern: How frightening that would have been. The poor girls in there will need counseling that’s so unfair on them. Hope the community can track these two down .. Destiny Ward: Hayden Phillips did you see this?

•

Facebook users also commented on the possibility to propose during an intimate dinner in space starting from 2025.

•

Glenn Adair: Oh great, balloons .... a space version of the titanic submarine... where do I sign! Na Um: Make sure you bring a spare PlayStation controller. Craig McDonald: Get back to me when Buyin Time offers this! Charles Branstom: Last year I went the full nuclear Valentines approach. Flowers/chocolate/a stuffed teddy/dinner. In return I got “I know what you are after”

• • •

Facebook users also commented on the traffic jams caused by the Green Street bridge closure.

•

Brianna Munt: Couldn’t do my usual dodgy right turn out of woolies because of the congestion... outrageous! Kari Sanders: Rowan St is horrendous. The 2 rows traffic went almost back to the Green St roundabout this morning from the Baker St roundabout. There will definitely be accidents before the overpass is reopened.

•

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Good Samaritans come to fallen MY sincere thank you to all those who assisted with my medical issue. Mid-afternoon on Tuesday, January 16 while crossing the road to enter Woolworths I tripped over the uneven and broken footpath, falling heavily on my left knee and replacement left hip. The pain was much worse than trying to pass kidney stones. Almost immediately, four busy young ladies came to my aid. They lifted me, supported my broken leg, provided shelter, water, and contacted the ambulance while the other produced a folding chair. The ambulance arrived promptly with two male paramedics; it took a great deal of trouble for them, assisted by the same young ladies, to get me from the folding seat into the high ambulance. Well done and thank you. With a fractured leg and being 93 years of age, I was not much help. I would like to thank those ladies sincerely for their care, compassion and promptness. I was conveyed to the wonderful updated, modern North East hospital where I spent the next 10 days for fracture repairs. How can I express on paper my appreciation to those female and male surgical staff, down through the x-ray and radiography team, catering staff, ‘bed pushers’ and cleaning staff? From the moment I arrived they were kind, caring and very considerate, doing all they could to alleviate my pain, they made me feel like I was their only patient. How lucky we are living in Wangaratta. David Williams, Wangaratta

Trucking body’s $5 billion request THE Australian Government should invest an extra $5 billion over 10 years to fix freight roads, dangerous level crossings and to build more rest areas for truck drivers, Trucking is vital to the fabric of the Australian community, but the government needs to make our freight roads better. To keep truck drivers safe, the government needs to fix dangerous level crossings and we need a concerted effort

Do you believe the Rural City of Wangaratta’s recreational spaces cater for all community needs?

RUSH HOUR: Traffic heading down Rowan Street into the Wangaratta CBD on Friday afternoon was banked back to Green Street and beyond. It’s a sign of things to come with Green Street closed until June due to the replacement of its bridge. The old bridge will be removed today with the whole Albury line closed to facilitate the works. PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm to fix rest areas, because the task is huge, and drivers aren’t seeing enough in the way of results. Australia must also invest in developing a defined all-weather network, with a supporting secondary network pre-approved for use, in the wake of road network closures due to fires, floods and crashes. To achieve this, the Australian Government should assume responsibility for major freight roads through the national highways program. This should include funding and operational responsibilities, including granting access approvals for heavy vehicles. The 2024-25 budget should include a new, $5 billion truck roads, level crossings and rest areas program over the next 10 years. All the projects under the program should be linked to results, such as improving safety and enabling the industry to increase its use of high productivity trucks. Increasing the use of high productivity trucks would reduce total vehicle movements, reduce congestion growth and lower the cost of freight.

High productivity trucks are more likely to be safer, quieter and less emissions intensive. The government’s immediate priority should be to fund the road upgrades needed to allow 35-metre modular A-doubles on the Hume Highway in New South Wales. These trucks with two trailers can carry 44 pallets of freight, compared to 36 pallets in the 26 metre long B-doubles that are commonly used now. Australian Trucking Association, chair, David Smith

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THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 7

Ease back to sustain the benefit BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

RETURNING to exercise and training after a short or extended break can be a tough but exciting time as people renew their goals for the New Year or strive towards a physical goal. It could be a fun run you’re training for or a hike or one of the most common reasons why people hit the gym, to live a healthier lifestyle. Before you start back there are important things to consider so you don’t try and bench 200kg or run 10km in the first session back - a couple of moves that could derail your renewed motivation or cause injury. Vanda Johnstone is one of the personal trainers (PTs) at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre and she has helped many people reach their goals over the years. She has shared some of her extensive knowledge as a guide to best practices in training and what not to do. When someone walks into the gym a PT will carry out a gym assessment and their client could be someone who has never been to a gym before, or someone who wants to do specific training for sports or a personal goal. Vanda said goal setting is massively important in training and she helps people set short-term goals that give them checkpoints along the

way so they don’t lose motivation towards their more longterm goals. But it’s about not going too hard, too early and Vanda said there are risks with people returning to training after a long spell. “Injury is definitely one of the risks because sometimes people think they can lift the same weight as they used to, but you should always reduce the load,” she said. “You might be coming back from injury and you might have to do really low level, light weight or resistance bands to build back up to something as simple as a weighted squat. “For weight lifting always work on your form first because if you don’t have good technique or form, you shouldn’t be lifting heavy weights. “You might start with just the Olympic bars with no weights and until you get really good technique, I wouldn’t be adding any extra weight. “Get some tips from a PT or help from someone in the gym, or you could take a video of yourself as well to make sure your form is correct.” People can have goals to increase their running stamina and speed, but Vanda said it’s super important to work up to your target distances or speed. “Personally, I might want to go for a run and time myself and each week I would have an assessment and then I will see if I can go faster,” Vanda said.

COME AND TRAIN: Personal trainers Olivia Cavicchiolo (left) and Vanda Johnstone can help you reach your fitness goals at Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s gym. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling “On a treadmill you can gradually increase your speed so you can edge towards your target time for a certain distance.” Vanda said leg exercises will help as well and runners should also be doing calf raises and squats to build up quads and hamstrings, along with glute work - all the muscles to power the run. There is plenty of tech around to monitor your heart

rate and Vanda said a rule of thumb for maximum heart rate when running is 220bpm minus your age, down to about 30bpm from that number. FITNESS GOALS: Personal trainer Olivia Cavicchiolo (left) with gym member Lyndal Bradburn at Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

Maddi’s love for running helps her strive for change BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

TWO of local family violence practitioner Maddi Tobias’ biggest passions will combine next month as she joins Centre Against Violence Wangaratta’s (CAV) team in the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run. Working at The Orange Door on Reid Street and as a CAV family violence practitioner, Maddi receives referrals from police, child protection or clients themselves who are seeking support for family violence and offers them the extra support they need. Always looking for ways to take her work values into her hobbies, Maddi’s for sport, and in particular running, served as an ideal motive to jump on board with Team CAV. On March 17, Maddi will be taking part in the 10km run backing up her efforts from last year, with the goal of helping raise awareness of CAV’s services and make a community stand on family and sexual violence through the healthy and connected activity. Having been a part of Team CAV last year, Maddi said it was a rewarding ex-

perience and with Team CAV going bigger and better this year, she’s only more eager to go around the track a second time. “It was awesome to don the CAV shirt and represent them in doing something that I love, which is running and the social element of running as well in a community event so I’m pretty keen,” she said. Maddi is a regular runner with her local run club at Wodonga and takes part in parkrun every week. “I’ve been wearing my CAV shirt most weeks when I do parkrun, I don’t get as many conversations as I would like out of it but I know I’ve got the ‘everyone deserves to be safe’ slogan on my back and that’s kind of a cool thing to represent and have people read that when I run in front of them,” Maddi said. Maddi has taken part in an expansion of the Team CAV brand, joining the inaugural team at Albury-

A KEEN ADVOCATE: Maddi Tobias is keen to combine her passions of running and family violence awareness at the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run with Centre Against Violence’s team. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling Wodonga’s City 2 City Marathon and Fun Run. The ex-premier division cricketer said sport has always been an outlet of positive community connection for her and she has already encouraged a group of her Wodonga run club counterparts to join the cause.

“It’s an opportunity to be a part of the community, a community event that’s not work but an opportunity to have conversations and redirect negativity around women’s experiences with violence or sexual abuse so I always try and represent CAV values when I’m in the

community as well,” she said. “My passion outside of work is physical activity and a perfect way to connect with people and bring people in and have conversation where you’re just not sitting one-on-one but having some of the modality to

have conversations.” To learn more and register for the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run – head to https:// www.wangarattamarathon. com.au/ or to learn more about Team CAV – head to www.centreagainstviolence.org.au.

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Young local talent celebrated at Benalla exhibition THE artistic talents of senior art and design students from North East Victoria are being celebrated as part of the annual SHOWCASE exhibition at the Benalla Art Gallery. The exhibition provides students the opportunity for artistic recognition in a public art space, and invites visitors to gain insight into the passions and concerns of young artists from schools across the region. There are 15 students from Cathedral College

Wangaratta, Wangaratta High School, Benalla FCJ College, Euroa Secondary College, Mansfield Steiner School and Yarrawonga College P-12 taking part, presenting 22 artworks as part of this year’s exhibition. Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said the exhibition presents impressive works of art and folios exploring concepts including personal and cultural identities, experiences of our natural environment, our

relationship with animals, grief, mental health and the emotional landscape, speculative futures, gun violence, power dynamics, and the practical applications of artistic work. “Each year we’re really heartened to see large numbers of people from our community visit this exhibition, and to hear how they have been inspired by the artists’ creative processes, imaginative ideas and skilful use of materials across a range of media,” he said.

Mr Nash said SHOWCASE highlights Benalla Art Gallery’s strong commitment to contemporary art and arts education. The exhibition runs until Sunday, February 25.

EMERGING ARTISTS: The SHOWCASE 2023 Senior Art and Design Student Exhibition is being held at the Benalla Art Gallery until February 25. PHOTO: Benalla Art Gallery

Gallery welcomes Elizabeth Willing to begin residency BRISBANE artist Elizabeth Willing has arrived at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, where she will spend three weeks in residence exploring the region to research and develop new work for her solo exhibition at the gallery in 2025. Elizabeth Willing’s works are described as performative and often participatory explorations of food as an art material. Primarily working in sculpture, installation and performance, her work additionally takes the form of concept dinners and collaborative performances using the dining table as stage for interactive experiences Food has long been a source of fascination as well as a tool of her trade. It’s both material and subject, connecting her work across forms as diverse as wallpaper prints, cookbook collages, edible sculptures and live dining events. Just as food can provoke a strange mix of responses in us, from disgust to desire, Willing’s creations prompt us to confront the complexity of our relationship with what we consume and why it so often ends up on our minds as well as our

ACROSS THE

plates. Willing is also interested in the sensory qualities of food and its ability to provoke participation. She said she has always held strong views about the ethics of consumption and was a vegetarian for much of her teens and twenties. “I also grew up in a household with some complex relationships to food that I was sensitive to,” she said. “I think I came away with a strong sense that eating was deeply linked to psychology and mental health. “It might be that my constant return to food is a way to make sense of all that – but I’ve also discovered a deep love of researching food and dining.” For her exhibition at Wangaratta Art Gallery, Willing will be investigating the food of our region, and the wine, including the familial and historical connections to agriculture and viticulture.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE: An example of the artist’s work includes Elizabeth Willing, Forced Rhubarb, installation view, Tolarno Galleries, Melbourne, 2023. PHOTO: Andrew Stephens She will be visiting wineries and food producers in the King Valley and using her research to develop a suite of new works that respond directly to the context and uniqueness of our food and wine producing region. While in the region, the artist will be staying at the Mécène Residency in Beechworth, thanks to the generosity of owners who

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are keen supporters of the arts. Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt said the gallery was delighted to have an artist of Elizabeth’s calibre in residence. “Elizabeth will be able to immerse herself in the particularities of Wangaratta and the region, its unique food and wine history and develop new work that captures this es-

IN RESIDENCE: Artist Elizabeth Willing has arrived at Wangaratta Art Gallery (Elizabeth Willing, portrait with her work Tastes of Sunshine, 2016, courtesy Museum of Brisbane). PHOTO: David J Kelly sence,” she said. “As an artist that works across food, sculpture, installation and textiles, there are so many synergies and I’m confident that her work will resonate with

local audiences and visitors alike.” Elizabeth Willing’s exhibition will be presented at Wangaratta Art Gallery from February 1 to March 30 in 2025.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 9

Mayor spruiks benefits of Inland Rail THE arrival of Inland Rail will fast-track economic growth and help drive the construction of much needed community infrastructure in North-East Victoria and leave a great legacy in the region, according to Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees. Interviewed for an Inland Rail video ahead of the opening of the new bridge in Glenrowan, Cr Rees emphasised the importance of the Inland Rail project in creating local jobs and driving economic activity that rural cities often can’t do on their own. To date, Inland Rail has spent more than $35 million with 176 local Victorian businesses and employed 650 locals on the Victorian section of the project. Some 35 Wangaratta businesses have supplied the In-

land Rail project. Local businesses provide earthworks, accommodation and catering, environmental consultancy, cultural heritage services, equipment hire, electrical services, workforce training, labour hire, office supplies, PPE supply, precast concrete products, signalling equipment supply and equipment hire. Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, first connecting Beveridge to Parkes, NSW, by 2027 before later connecting from Narromine, New South Wales, to Ebenzer, Queensland. In Victoria, work will take place at 12 sites, including Wangaratta and Glenrowan in the Rural City of Wangaratta, to enable double-

stacked freight trains to pass safely and ensure everyday products can be delivered faster and more reliably around Australia. Cr Rees said the city has been very fortunate to have Inland Rail come through Wangaratta and improve some of the infrastructure that the rural city just can’t afford to do on its own without partnering with a group like ARTC. “Inland freight is always a super important thing, it’s all about creating jobs,” Cr Rees said. “We look forward to this continuing, growing quicker and further. “This new [Glenrowan] bridge is going to be magnificent. “It’s going to offer a greater connectivity with people with the pedestrian access

RENEWAL: Dean Rees features in a new video about what the Inland Rail project is doing to support the Rural City of Wangaratta community. across the bridge. “I believe ARTC will leave a great legacy with the reconstruction of new

infrastructure that has been badly needed over the last 20-30 years here in Rural City of Wangaratta

including Glenrowan.” To view the video visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=qHMz3z5CVqw.

Wangaratta’s sixth wettest January on record

RARING TO GO: Hannah Logie from Strathmerton Fire Brigade, has competed in the state championships for the past eight years since she was 11 years old.

Brigade members urged to enter championships CFA is encouraging brigades across the state to compete in this year’s CFA/ VFBV State Firefighter Championships in March. Mooroopna Recreation Reserve will again be the site of the events; with the Urban Junior State Championships on March 16-17. The Senior Urban and Senior Rural events will be held at the same site the following weekend on March 23-24. CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the state championships have a rich tradition and are an integral part of CFA. “The championships are a great opportunity for our members to engage in some friendly competition with

their brigade and fellow firefighters,” CO Heffernan said. “It’s also a great way for the community to see what we do and hopefully we can inspire them to join their local brigades. “I highly recommend brigades get involved in the event which includes practical firefighting activities utilising hoses, hydrants and other equipment. “It’s also fantastic for teamwork and comradeship.” Hannah Logie from Strathmerton Fire Brigade, who has competed in the state championships for the past eight years, encourages other brigades to take part because she says it’s the

best two weekends of the year. “I have been competing since I was 11 years old and my whole family has been involved over the years too,” Ms Logie said. “It’s a great event because you make friends, you get fit and most importantly, you have a good laugh. “What I love most is the people I’m around all day, it’s a really close-knit group. If you’re considering joining, just do it, it’s the best fun.” Interested brigades need to register by February 18. Nominations are online via the VFBV website: 2024 State Championships - Entries Now Open (vfbv.com. au).

WANGARATTA and nearby centres during January all had well above average rain. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) weather station at Wangaratta airport recorded 138.8mms for the month, which is 94mms above average and our sixth wettest January behind 141mms in 1925; 226.7mms in 1934; 173mms in 1974; 142.6mms in 1984; 140mms in 1991; and 148.2mms in 1995. The mean maximum temperature for January was 30.5 degrees, which was 1.6 degrees below normal while the mean minimum temperature of 15.7 degrees was 1.5 degrees above normal. The average humidity at 9am for January was 67 per cent and at 3pm for January was 43 per cent - both being notably above normal. The hottest day was 36.1 on Friday, January 12, whilst the coldest morning was 8.8 degrees on Saturday, January 27. Several towns in the Maranoa and Warrego district in Queensland have

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER? By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist

had well above average rainfall from mid November to the end of January. Charleville has had its third wettest January in 150 years of records with 246mms just behind the 307mms in January 1891 and 263.8mms in January 2008. Cunnamulla had its wettest ever day with 168mms on January 8 in 145 years of records. The previous wettest day at Cunnamulla was 158mms in December 1992. Both these towns had a very dry period from July to October. The past records do show when heavy rains occur during the last two months of the year after a notable dry period from mid winter to October the heavy rains continue well into January which has also occurred in Victoria as well. February will see below

average rain generally with a warm to hot period from late February to late March with maximum temperatures topping 40 degrees at many places from Victoria right up to Charleville, then above average rain from April until November on most months. There has been much discussion and criticism with the BOM’s forecast failure in predicting severe drought conditions based upon a strong El Nino event for the next 12 months. Back in mid 1997 the BOM also issued a severe drought warning one of the worse ever to happen in the next 12 months well into 1998. With my studies of rainfall patterns since I was at CSIRO in 1964 across the eastern states I was quick to predict a wetter than average period from September 1997 until January 1998 and more heavy rain from April 1998 to November 1998. This turned out to be one of my best accurate predictions including my forecast for a very wet year in 2010, some 13 years later.

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Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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SOCIAL FOCUS

Holiday vibes in Wangaratta SUMMER and end of school holidays were in full swing last week with many families flocking to Apex Park for some downtime, to keep cool or just spend some time with family and friends.

ON THE NET: Ruairidh and Archie Grigg take some time out with Lucy and Hazel Roach.

CHEESE: ASTON HAMILTON GING LOOSE. WAS HANGING

ON THE NET: RUAIRIDH AND ARCHIE GRIGG TAKE SOME TIME OUT WITH LUCY AND HAZEL ROACH.

NO SCHOOL CHOOL JUST YET: FREY AD DIDN’T WISH FOR THE STEAD DAYS TO END JUST YET. HOLIDAYS

TIME OUT: JAMIE MUCCIO HAS HAD A BLAST THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS.

OUT: Baylee Vincent and Eden Guley HANGING GO the playground. navigate i t th

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

GOOD FRIENDS: Anita Roach spends time with Eilidh Grigg.

SWINGING TOWARDS SCHOOL: WILLIAM MUCCIO IS ALL SMILES DURING SWING TIME.

OUTING AT APEX PARK: Reid, Kevin, Trish and Iyah Hogan stopped for a bite to eat.

WHAT A HOLIDAY: Liv Kaye and Charlotte Sheppard were playing in the shade.

GOOD TIME TIMES: Olive Muccio regularly enjoys Apex Park.

FAMILY TIME: Sarah, Dustin, Katie and Jeanette Adams enjoy some down time.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 11

The latest happenings at Probus

Wangaratta Appin Park Combined Probus Happy 2024 everyone. THE Christmas Celebration lunch at Town & Country Tavern was wonderful - food delicious, company great and the special interest groups singing and performing provided lots of fun. At the January meeting, president Maureen Adcock called proceedings to order and welcomed members present. There was a long list of apologies for several reasons so we hope those ill members are well again and those who were away have enjoyed holidays and/or time with family. Big happy birthday wishes went to Reina Dike celebrating her 80th birthday. Special interest group activities are back in full swing. Cards are ‘going well’ - each Monday morning the walkers are striding the paths to a coffee shop. The craft group begins again on January 30, the book club meets on the third Wednesday of each month. The games group meets 5.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month at the Men’s Shed. Men’s Breakfast group meets at 8.30am on the last Thursday of the month at the Gateway. The combined breakfast group is going to Ineeta Café, Moyhu on Sunday, February 4 at 9am. Members are heading to Everton Hotel (2125 Great Alpine Rd, Everton) for lunch at on Friday, February 16 at 12 noon. Terry Wilson was guest speaker at the meeting and told great stories of owning a small plane and flying the skies of the beautiful North East Victoria and other places. Nominations are being called for committee positions and group leader positions for the new Probus year 2024/25, with the AGM to be held on March 12. Nominate by the February 13 meeting. Wangaratta Ladies Probus THE club finished last year with its Christmas luncheon at the Gateway, with 47 out of 56 members attending. It was a wonderful lunch, with lots of laughter from everyone. The winner of the Christmas Hamper was Marion Gay who shared it with her family at Christmas. Congratulations Marion.

Robyn Batten made key chains for all those present, thank you Robyn, and of course we had our lucky ticket winners with many varied prizes won. The first meeting for the year was held on January 15 at the Wangaratta Club and president Christine welcomed everyone back. Sadly one of the members passed away over Christmas and two members lost their sisters. Activities started again in January, with fun and fitness, Mahjong, a vintage meeting for lunch, the garden group meeting for brunch, and a coffee morning meeting. Bowling begins again in February and the Virtual Tour continues in Tasmania. The guest speaker for January was Max Baker who spoke on the beginnings of the Moyhu township, which was of great interest to many of the members. He was a very entertaining and lively speaker. The club looks forward to an exciting and fun year ahead with other activities recommencing in February. Probus Central Combined Inc CHRISTMAS was at Remel 185, which was enjoyed by 57 members. A recent meeting was held at Wangaratta Bowls Club and was opened by president Rob Lamond where five visitors were welcomed. The club currently has 65 members - 48 were present, 12 apologies, two were on leave of absence and three unknown. Several members went to Sun Cinema in Bright to see “Boys in the Boat” which tells the true story of the team of eight rowers who represented the United States at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. Coming events: Movie on February 2 - “One Life” at Wangaratta Cinema (TBA) Breakfast Club – Thursday, February 8 at 8.30pm at the Gateway. February 22 – picnic at Lake

ISLAND HOLIDAY: Wangaratta West Probus member Avril Annett (left) was guest speaker at the January meeting. She told of a recent trip to Norfolk Island. She is pictured with fellow travellers and members, Lola Clarke (second from left), Pauline McAliece and Helen Baker. Catani, Mt Buffalo BYO everything except the table. Car pool trip. March 22 – trip to Jindera with a visit to the museum and lunch Canberra Trip for Caravanners and others on Monday, April 29 – May 5 at Alivio Caravan Park, Canberra. Car-pooling option. Cabins from basic to deluxe villas. The next meeting will be held on February 16 at 10am at Wangaratta Bowls Club, Park Lane. Wangaratta Probus Club Men’s THE Probus club celebrated Christmas at King River Café Oxley, which all members enjoyed. At the January meeting president Richard Gray inducted new member John Elward, who gave a brief description of his interesting life. Guest speaker was Doug James whose family has farmed at Bungeet since the late 1800s, commencing with his great-greatgrandfather who relocated from the family property near Daylesford and took up a selection which is still in the family today. He used to ride a horse between the two farms, a distance of about 200 miles.

Doug showed members some of the original tools found on the property that were used by the aboriginal population. He also had survey maps from the 1870s showing the original settlement plots of around 300 acres. They originally grew crops but due to the lack of water they became a sheep farm. With additional land purchased over time, and installing dams for water, they now run about 3600 ewes and 2500 lambs. Doug spoke of the rabbit plagues they have experienced and the bushfire a few years ago when they lost 1500 sheep and 40km of fencing burnt by the fire, which had to be replaced with the help of Blaze Aid. If you would like to meet the friendly members over coffee (10am on 1st and 3rd Fridays) at Intermezzo, or a monthly Probus lunch, or hear interesting guest speakers, call acting secretary Ed Bradbury on 0402 142 268 and come and join. Wangaratta West Combined Probus Club PRESIDENT Ron Webb opened

the January meeting and welcomed members plus three guests wishing all a Happy New Year. There were numerous apologies and members believe this was because of the holiday season and not illness. Nine members celebrated birthdays in January but no special ones this time. The annual breakfast at the Gateway Hotel was enjoyed by all who attended. Pinsent Hotel was the venue for the monthly Sunday lunch and 14 members enjoyed a delicious meal. Nominations are being sought for the club’s annual meeting in March and these must be in by the February meeting. Secretary Avril Annett, who replaced the guest speaker, gave members a very interesting and humorous talk about her trip to Norfolk Island with three friends/ members. There is lots of history about Norfolk Island and it is such a pretty place and enjoyable to visit. Thanks Avril. A happy and healthy New Year to all.

O NO UT W

The ultimate guide for tourists and locals

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Junior Reporter Club

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO... James Owen ...................................................... February 7 Mason Ryan...................................................... February 10 Charley Francesco Elliott .........................February 11 This Week’s Winner of a birthday cake from Shelley’s Country Bakehouse is Charley Francesco Elliott To be in the running to win a birthday cake from Shelley’s Country Bakehouse, join the Junior Reporter Club. Phone 5723 0100 or email bsommer@nemedia.com.au with your child’s name, address, DOB and phone number. Your address and phone number will not be printed in the Chronicle but is required to contact you should you win the cake. Birthday Book is for 1 to 14 year olds. All existing Birthday Book participants will remain eligible to win a birthday cake. Please note 48 hours notice required.

6 67a Reid Street WANGARATTA W

P: 5722 9211 P

Pies, Pasties & Sausage Rolls, Salad Rolls, Breads, Cakes & Pastries, Cold Drinks & Coffee HOURS: H OUR RS S: M Mo Monday on ond nd day ay - F Friday rriida rida day 6 6.30am . - 5.30pm S atur at urda day 7 .0 00a 0am - 2.30pm 0am Saturday 7.00am

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 13

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GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

F I S T P M L O A F I O U M O R E P F O W L M E F E E D A Y D A T I N G

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

Army Dating Day Dew Feed

5 What is a formula

16 Name a form of quadrille

for preparing a dish in cookery (6) 6 Name an alternative term for a topic (5) 9 Which person is licensed to practise medicine (6) 10 To be of a lower price, is to be what (7) 12 What is a seat on a bicycle (6) 14 What is the section of seats in front of a stage in a theatre (6)

marked by extravagant leaping and kicking (6) 18 To astonish, is to do what (5) 19 What are hangmen’s nooses (5) 21 Which movable barrier is on a swinging frame (4) 22 Name another term for a religious denomination (4)

4 DETORT (a) To remove from a throne (b) To cleanse, as a wound (c) To untwist 6 FINITE (a) Affectedly precise in trifles (b) Having an end or limit (c) Pertaining to the Finns or Finland

BIYWORD

325

SOLUTIONS

315

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

SUDOKU

WHICH WORDS: 1 (c) To untwist 2 (b) Having an end or limit

DOWN 1 Scotch’s partner 2 Genus of Araceae 3 Back of the neck 4 Hidden valley

BIYWORD

ACROSS 1 Caroled 5 Nuncupative 6 Hoodwink 7 Final word

E I P E L R E N S G O T G O V H O Y

CROSSWORD

QUICK THINK

015 SUDOKU

CLUES: A Between northeast & east (3) Group (3) A Kata Tjuta: The ... (5) D Kept clear (7) Military chaplain (5) D Not concealed (5) Preﬁx: containing egg (3) E Science of health preservation (7) E Storage space: ... box (5) Swindle (coll) (3)

QUICK THINK

6 3

055

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

c44o055

G×I A÷I K-G Q-A I×Q A+K P-G

Rim Tip Wet

WHICH WORDS

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

A G I K P Q U

Man Mat Mope More Pie

MINI WORD FIND

E-QUATIONS

Fist Fluff Fool Fowl Loaf

ACROSS: 1 Sang, 5 Oral, A 6 Dupe, 7 Amen. O V O DOWN: 1 Soda, 2 Arum, G L O 9 E © 3 Nape, 4 Glen. H Y G I E N E P A D R E S E T D

raise money for charity, church, school, etc (4) 2 Name a barrier in a racetrack to be leapt over by contestants (6) 3 What is a radiance surrounding the head of a saint (4) 4 The uniform of soldiers is usually of which colour (5)

E-QUATIONS A:6, G:3, I:2, K:5, P:22, Q:11, U:19

DOWN 1 What is a function to

F I S T P M L O A F I O U M O R E P F O W L M E F E E D A Y D A T I N G

unarmed combat (6) 7 To dispose of in one’s will, is to do what (8) 8 Which horse won the ﬁrst two Melbourne cups (6) 9 What is a state of affairs in which progress is impossible (8) 11 What were bohemians called in the 1960s (7) 13 Name a kind of pepper (7) 15 To be dry, is to be what (7) 17 What is a state of ecstatic joy (7) 20 To arrange, is to do what (8) 23 Name a particular poll (6) 24 What is another term for an ingress (8) 25 What is an ofﬁcial enumeration of inhabitants, with details as to age, gender, etc (6)

F H H K A R A T E E H B E Q U E A T H T R L A R C H E R I M D E A D L O C K O L H I P P I E S E A C A Y E N N E A D T S P A R C H E D O A L R A P T U R E M A O R G A N I S E A C E G A L L U P Z L E N T R A N C E E N T C E N S U S

ACROSS 4 Name a type of

MINI WORD FIND 315

1015

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Alpine Park culling closure from Feb 5-9 PARTS of the Alpine National Park will be closed from February 5-9 while aerial shooting operations targeting deer are undertaken, according to Parks Victoria. Swathes of the park will be closed during the operation, including east of Harrietville, Mount Blue Rag and Mount Freezout south of Hotham, and parts of the park east of Mount Beauty and surrounding Falls Creek. The following tracks and visitor areas on the Bogong High Plains will be closed during the operation: · Moncrieffs Gap Track · East Kiewa Fire Track

· Cranky Charlie Track · Roper Spur Track · Big River Fire Track (off BHP Road) · Spring Saddle Track · Arthur Track · Mt Arthur Fire Trail · Red Fox Track · Black Possum Spur Track · Junction Spur Fire Track · Trapyard Gap Track On Mount Feathertop, MUMC Hut, Bon Accord Spur, Northwest Spur and East Ovens Track will be closed. Dinner Plain and the Dargo High Plains will remain open.

ALL THE FUN AT THE FAIR: The cast of the opera Martha presented by Lyster Opera which will be performed at Milawa Hall on March 2.

A rare operatic treat coming to Milawa

Learn about biosecurity in your backyard VICTORIAN small-scale property and livestock owners can now access a new resource to help navigate the world of livestock and farming. Agriculture Victoria’s ‘Backyard Biosecurity’ newsletter covers everything you need to know about good biosecurity management, with new editions released weekly. Emergency Animal Disease Industry Engagement Program Manager Kellyanne Harris said the newsletter takes readers on a journey through the most important aspects of managing a small property and livestock. ‘Backyard Biosecurity is a weekly newsletter covering everything from dealing with pests to keeping chickens healthy,’ Ms Harris said. ‘It doesn’t matter when you subscribe, a new edition will arrive in your inbox every week with something new to discover.’ Key topics covered in the newsletter include: • Pest animals • Weeds • Poultry

• Cattle • Honeybees • Wildlife • Goats • Sheep • Pigs • How to create a farm map • Horses • Alpacas • Marine pests • Fire Preparedness. Readers can access additional information in each newsletter, including biosecurity planning templates for specific animals. There are also links to online training modules to gain even more biosecurity knowledge. “This newsletter is for anyone looking to learn more about managing their farm and keeping their animals happy and healthy,” Ms Harris said. “‘Even if you’ve just got two alpacas on a small property, having the right information to implement good biosecurity practices on your farm not only benefits you, but it benefits the entire agriculture industry,” Ms Harris said. To subscribe to Backyard Biosecurity, visit our website agriculture.vic.gov. au/backyardbiosecurity.

Lyster y Opera’s p revival of Friedrich von Flotow’s Martha MILAWA is soon to experience a rare operatic experience when Lyster Opera presents the first professional revival of Friedrich von Flotow’s Martha in many years. From the mid-19th century until the outbreak of World War One, Martha was among the most performed musical works in the world. Its unique blend of comedy and romantic drama, coupled with a rich and beautiful score, endeared it to audiences worldwide, and it was said to be Queen Victoria’s favourite opera. It was a direct influence on many composers, including Sir Arthur Sullivan, who conducted it many times. For director, and Lyster Opera founder Jamie Moffat, its neglect in recent years is inexplicable. “The score is among the most ravishing I have ever heard,” he said. “Apart from some instantly recognisable pieces, such as ‘The Last Rose of Summer’ which is

LYSTER Opera derives its name from William Saurin Lyster (1828-1880), an Irish born entrepreneur who made it his mission to provide opera to the growing population of Australia. Under Lyster’s auspices, Australians were given their first taste of operatic composers performed by local artists who brought these works to a new public. Lyster’s extraordinary life and career were documented by Harold Love in his book The Golden Age of Australian Opera (Currency Press, 1981) and today the Melbourne suburb of Lysterfield is named in his honour. Today, Lyster Opera perpetuates this vision by bringing opera to new audiences, often in remote areas. These country performances have been augmented by performances at various Melbourne venues. Some of Melbourne’s finest singers, musical directors and designers have been engaged. Lyster Opera Ltd is a registered charity, so donations of $2 or more to them are tax deductible in Australia. woven throughout, it is in turn funny and at times unbearably moving. “Finding a cast to do it justice is a challenge, and we are so lucky to have singers who can bring it to life.” Martha tells the story of two Irish noblewomen who, bored with life at the Queen’s Court, decide to disguise themselves as servants and visit the

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local Fair at Richmond. There they are hired by two farmers to attend to their housework – when comedy turns to romance and a bad case of mistaken identity. The cast is made up of experienced singers who have performed regularly at Melbourne Opera and Victorian Opera, as well as newcomers. Paul Biencourt and Mi-

chael Lampard play the brothers Lionel and Plunkett who hire Lady Harriett (Katy Turbitt) and Nancy (Maria Woolford) without knowing their true identities. Newcomer Nicholas Sheppard plays the Richmond Sheriff, who ensures that the laws of the shire are adhered to, and Troy Castle brings slapstick comedy to the role of Lord Mickelford. This is Lyster Opera’s first visit to Milawa Hall and is on a larger scale than previous productions, and features new costumes and sets. Musical direction is by Pamela Christie, who has been an audience favourite at previous Lyster performances. There is one performance only on March 2 at 2pm at Milawa Hall. Tickets at lysteropera. com.au - $40 for general admission, $35 concession, $30 children 14 and under and $120 for a family (two adults two children).

THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 15

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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

SELLING BUY A CAR ONLINE

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Classifieds Work! Phone:

(03)

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CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

A school of the Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)

Phone Bruce

0414 521 607

EMPLOYMENT

North East Shade Sails Commercial or Residential jobs Cameron 0402 563 562

HC Truck Drivers

Looking for a change of direction?

The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions:

Teacher Assistant (Senior School) Head of Learning Enhancement (Family leave replacement position) Casual Relief Teachers Please refer to our website for more information.

Find your next job in the classified section of the

Applications are to be forwarded to: The Principal, Mr Nick Jones at: principal@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au by 5.00pm Wednesday, February 14. Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer

or go online anytime at

Advertise FREE! If you’re selling for $50 or less Sell those unwanted items that are lying around your home or gathering dust in the shed! Simply ﬁll in the coupon below and deliver by hand, fax, or post to ‘Free Classiﬁeds, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta.’ CONDITIONS:- Advertisements will not be accepted by phone or email - Prices included in advertisement must not exceed $50 in total - No commercial advertisers - Price and phone number must be included in the advertisement - No animals can be advertised unless being offered FREE - No auto parts or accessories can be advertised - Advertisements will appear in Monday or Wednesday editions only - One entry per household, per week - The publisher reserves the right to publish on the next available date if space is unavailable. - Advertisements may only be submitted on this form. (Original only - No photocopies)

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LOST Cane walking stick, last seen October 24, 2023 in the Wangaratta CBD area, has sentimental value, please urgently contact Barry on 03 5722 9524, 4/16 Warby Street, Wangaratta.

EMPLOYMENT

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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FUNERAL NOTICES

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THURS

Community battling for dredge access

VOZLIC The graveside service to honour the life of Mrs Marta Vozlic will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery, Mason Street Wangaratta, on Friday, February 9, 2024 commencing at 2pm.

Monday, January 29, 2024

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Page 3

If you don't use it...

$1.80 INC. GST

Phone (03) 5723 0100

Gift win is a “dream come true”

Brigade gives Clayton life for his service

Page 7

Sport

Around 800 people enjoyed Wangaratta’s official Australia Day celebrations TOP HONOURS: The Rural City of Wangaratta crowned its top citizens and project/event at the Australia Day celebrations in King George V Gardens on Friday. Pictured are Young Citizen of the Year Loius Pye, Citizen of the Year Ruth Kneebone, and Peter Rourke, representing Project 365 and the U Can Cry band which took out the Community Project/Event of the Year. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

David’s OAM honour

Page 2

Family proud to be Aussies

One for all, all for one

WANGARATTA’S strength in community spirit once again captivated the rural city’s Australia Day Awards ceremony on Friday morning. Around 800 people gathered at the King George V Gardens, some in more limited edition Australia Day merchandise to com-

Australia Day WANGARATTA

STORY by BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

memorate the day. Stalwarts of communities within the rural city were duly honoured at ceremonies around town which paid

tribute to their thankless community contributions. Among those community pillars was Ruth Kneebone, whose lifetime of service to the Wangaratta community was commended as the Rural City of Wangaratta’s 2024 Citizen of the Year. The municipality’s top honours also included Project

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365 and the U Can Cry band which took out the Community Project/Event of the Year and Louis Pye who won Young Citizen of the Year. Ruth has proven to be a dedicated volunteer and active community member across multiple community organisations she has led and been a part of, benefit-

ing the sporting, culture and welfare of others across the rural city. During an emotional and motivating speech, she said it was a humbling and exciting feeling to be acknowledged by her community with the prestigious award in front of family and friends. ■ Continued page 5

Page 4

Reflection and unity

Page 4

Local Achievers awarded at rural events Page 10

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NALDER, Ralph Earle. Deceased February 4, 2023. A year since your pain stopped and you left us. %HUHIW VDG ORVW DQG KHDUWEURNHQ ZH ¿QG ways to get through each day. I hope you are at peace and know that you are missed. ~ Terry.

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Personal Notices NALDER, Ralph. February 4, 2023. Miss you Dad. Love you heaps. ~ Your loving daughter Joy.

may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication

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Local News.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS A funeral experience... not just a funeral service

1979 Toyota HiAce camper van, excellent condition, registered and RWC, rego (1TT1QS), price $10,500. Ph 0412 083 667.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021

Charge up your engines

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

2021 - Page 5

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+. 3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice. 40+. figure. Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when were Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Secondary of scores Across the region Goul- median they performed reasonably terparts 40+, Mount Scopus of 30 with 6pc of College had across the state. burn Valley Grammar School scores a median of 28, Memorial College well judging by the VCE study was next 40+. Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved Clarendon College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.

Wangaratta students compare admirably

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition. New members are always welcome. For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305. f INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

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Country stacks up in VCE

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

after a year like no other

Wang Repair Café returns

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

Mason Park Funerals

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

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

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

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm. The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation. Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

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

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday. The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities. Kayla, 17, has been offered a

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

their university offers yesterday. PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra. “I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said. “It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve. “But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.” Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.

“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said. “Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

offers

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

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now. “Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm. A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor. For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

CA W

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

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

Teens look to the future with uni

Live at home for longer

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

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Home nursing services Personal care

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The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta

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Gardening and home cleaning Transport for medical appointments

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

Personal Notices LOOKING for a female partner between 60 and 70 years of age, friendship and companionship. Please reply by email robertmccalman58@ gmail.com

Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

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Remember your loved one in a lasting way The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service - Northeast Health Wangaratta. Your memorial donation can assist in securing the continued availability of comprehensive health care locally. The bereaved family will be notiﬁed of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. For further information or to make a donation please contact: Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Subscribe now at

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THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 17

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

SCOREBOARD: Saturday, February 3

A GRADE WANGARATTA MAGPIES VS OVENS VALLEY UNITED OVENS VALLEY UNITED 1ST INNINGS Seamus Phillips c: ? b: Matt Gathercole ................... 5 Dylan Bursill (c) c: Frazer Dent b: Matt Gathercole 10 Kane Fitzpatrick lbw: Chris Clement ........................ 2 Cooper Thomason c: ? b: Fraser Ellis........................ 3 Nicholas Bleeser c: ? b: Zac Guilfoyle ....................... 6 Nicholas Impink lbw: Zac Guilfoyle .......................... 4 Conner Forde c: ? b: Frazer Dent ............................... 4 Gurjot Gosal c: ? b: Zac Guilfoyle .............................. 7 Samuel Piazza not out ...........................................24* Glenn White b: Frazer Dent ..................................... 18 James Neary lbw: Frazer Dent .................................. 1 Extras.......................................................................... 6 Total .................................................................. 10 / 89 Overs ........................................................................ 48 Bowling: Chris Clement 10/6/10/1, Matt Gathercole 10/3/20/2, Fraser Ellis 10/3/15/1, Zac Guilfoyle 6/1/12/3, Frazer Dent 7/0/18/3, Charlie Stafford 5/2/10/0. WANGARATTA MAGPIES 1ST INNINGS Cooper Matheson c: ? b: Conner Forde .................. 33 Lachlan Hadden lbw: Gurjot Gosal ......................... 13 Jack Davies (c) not out .............................................5* Fraser Ellis not out....................................................9* Extras.......................................................................... 4 Total .................................................................... 2 / 64 Overs ....................................................................... 24 Bowling: Conner Forde 3/1/4/1, Cooper Thomason 3/0/18/0, James Neary 3/0/6/0, Samuel Piazza 4/0/10/0, Gurjot Gosal 8/2/18/1, Glenn White 2/1/4/0, Nicholas Bleeser 1/0/1/0.

CLOSE: Yarrawonga Mulwala’s Hugo Bott tries to get bat on ball.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

ROVERS UNITED BRUCK VS YARRAWONGA MULWALA ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 1ST INNINGS Josh Ansell b: Angus Heslin ...................................... 3 Bailey Dale c: Reid Clarke b: Angus McMillan ......... 23 Josh O’Donohue c: Reid Clarke b: Brock McCabe .. 10 Paddy McNamara (c) run out: Reid Clarke, Ben McDonald................................................................. 35 Jacob Beattie c: Reid Clarke b: Brock McCabe ......... 7 Jeremy Wilson b: Brock McCabe ............................ 14 Lucky Shantha run out: Reid Clarke ......................... 1 Matt Whitten c: Angus McMillan b: Matt McCabe ... 22 Jacob Schonafinger c: Reid Clarke b: Matt McCabe. 9 Blake Nixon c: Matt Knight b: Matt McCabe ............. 7 Matthew Winter not out ...........................................0* Extras ......................................................................... 0 Total ............................................................... 10 / 108 Overs .................................................................... 63.2 Bowling: Angus McMillan (c) 15/5/21/1, Angus Heslin 10/3/15/1, Matt McCabe 17.2/5/29/3, Brock McCabe 17/3/33/3, Matt Knight 4/0/10/0. YARRAWONGA MULWALA 1ST INNINGS Reid Clarke not out...................................................0* Zach Moore not out ..................................................9* Extras.......................................................................... 2 Total .................................................................... 0 / 11 Overs ......................................................................... 8 Bowling: Jacob Schonafinger 3/1/8/0, Josh Ansell 1/0/2/0, Paddy McNamara (c) 3/2/1/0, Jeremy Wilson 1/1/0/0.

BEECHWORTH VS CITY COLTS CITY COLTS 1ST INNINGS Mitchell Giggins (c) c: Campbell Fendyk b: Will Prebble .................................................................... 38 Aaron Thrum c: Timothy Cogger b: Campbell Fendyk .................................................................................. 19 Ben Feldtmann c: William Vlahos b: Will Prebble .... 3 Kent Braden c: Marshall Semmens b: Campbell Fendyk ..................................................................... 34 Jessie Smith c: Campbell Fendyk b: Kayde Surrey .. 6 Tyler Nanson c: Brenton Surrey b: Clancy Ellett .... 28 Justin Solimo c: Campbell Fendyk b: Will Prebble 24 Jed Marek c: Brenton Surrey b: Campbell Fendyk... 5 Archie Crispin c: Brenton Surrey b: Richard Worcester .................................................................................... 2 Harvey Moore b: Richard Worcester ......................... 1 Matthew Lister not out .............................................0* Extras........................................................................ 20 Total ................................................................ 10 / 175 Overs ..................................................................... 69.4 Bowling: Timothy Cogger 13/2/29/0, Richard Worcester 13.4/4/29/2, Kayde Surrey 8/1/13/1,

STAR: City Colts’ Arabella Brett in action. Campbell Fendyk 17/7/25/3, Will Prebble 5/1/15/3, Clancy Ellett 7/0/34/1, Henry Scalzo 6/2/17/0. BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS Clancy Ellett not out .................................................1* Kayde Surrey b: Kent Braden .................................... 1 Campbell Fendyk not out ....................................... 0* Extras ......................................................................... 0 Total ...................................................................... 1 / 2 Overs ...................................................................... 1.5 Bowling: Tyler Nanson 1/0/2/0, Kent Braden 0.5/0/0/1.

DELATITE VS BENALLA BUSHRANGERS DELATITE 1ST INNINGS Gregor Fraser c: Tyler Begnone b: Priyank Chohan 31 Mitchell Copey c: Gary Priest b: Conor Brodie ......... 4 Nick Scales c: Susanka Gamage b: Ross Cavill ....... 30 Trent Berry c: Mitchell Wheelens b: Conor Brodie . 12 Lachlan Scales c: James Carboon b: Ross Cavill...... 1 Nicholas Bogar b: Mitchell Wheelens ..................... 12 Ben Martin lbw: Priyank Chohan ............................ 31 Conor Reeves c: James Carboon b: Priyank Chohan2 Lincoln Toy (c) run out: Tyler Begnone................... 29 Mitchell Purcell c: ? b: Conor Brodie ....................... 19 Peter Scales not out .................................................3* Extras........................................................................ 15 Total ................................................................ 10 / 189 Overs .................................................................... 74.4 Bowling: Conor Brodie 20/4/49/3, Tyler Begnone 7/1/27/0, Ross Cavill 14/5/16/2, Priyank Chohan 25.4/2/61/3, Mitchell Wheelens 8/1/33/1.

GOOD BALL: Jackson Rowell runs in to bowl.

A RESERVE City Colts 2/25 Alasdair Brett 10* Andrew Dishot 1/4 vs Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/226 Van Kreeck 44 Flynn Noble 3/34. Rutherglen United 0/33 Liam Hocking 3* vs Rovers United Bruck 10/133 Vance Curran 25 Jack Andison 3/30. Ovens Valley United 5/234 Marcello Vescio 70 Clinton Relf 3/59 vs Benalla Bushrangers.

B GRADE Benalla Bushrangers 9/178 Jack Fullager 58 Andrew Cook 3/52 def Delatite 8/173 Mark O’Loughlan 66 Leigh Pollard 3/34. Rovers United Bruck 10/230 Gary Elliott 100 Dylan Pool 2/42 def Beechworth Wanderers 9/95 Rama Schultz 41 Adriano Speziale 2/11. Greta 8/150 Aidan Callegari 32 def City Colts 7/141. Wangaratta Magpies 10/102 Dylan Corcoran 22 Henry Berriman 5/25 def by Merton 7/115 Harry Craddock 31* Chandan Kulkarni 2/29. Ovens Valley United 6/192 Scott Jones 58 Pat Beattie 2/21 def by Rutherglen United 5/203 Andrew Holmes 79 Hayden Williams 2/31. Milawa 9/190 Kristopher Allan 77 Gary Browning 4/26 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 7/173 Shaun Giblett 56* Kristopher Allan 3/25.

C GRADE Greta vs Beechworth Wanderers (Stanley) results unavailable. Gapsted 9/112 Nathan Blyth 38 Nicholas Jacobs 3/25 def by Benalla Bushrangers

7/178 Jordan Smith 38 Chris Mcnair 2/30.

UNDER 16 Rovers United Bruck 10/74 vs City Colts 0/11. Yarrawonga Mulwala vs Benalla Bushrangers 4/236. Rutherglen United vs Beechworth Wanderers. Greta/OVU 9/69 vs Delatite 5/21.

UNDER 14 Delatite 10/59 vs City Colts 3/40. Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/69 vs Beechworth Wanderers 4/27. Benalla Bushrangers vs Rovers United Bruck Gold 10/148. Wangaratta Magpies vs Rutherglen United 6/126. Rovers United Bruck Green vs Ovens Valley United 7/215.

UNDER 12 GOLD Benalla Bushrangers Blue 7/106 def by Benalla Bushrangers Green 6/117. Benalla Bushrangers Red 2/115 def Rovers United Bruck Blue 7/50. City Colts White 5/44 def by Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 3/107.Yarrawonga Mulwala Bulls vs Rovers United Bruck Yellow.

UNDER 12 BLUE Ovens Valley United Orange 8/72 def City Colts Blue 7/28. Beechworth Wanderers 5/127 def Ovens Valley United Black 5/56. Wangaratta Magpies Black 5/49 def by Greta 4/97. Rutherglen United 8/67 def by Wangaratta Magpies White 7/84.

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

SCOREBOARD: Saturday, February 3

City Colts set Wanderers 176, Lakers grab ascendancy over RUB CITY Colts have put the pressure on Beechworth Wanderers in their clash at Baarmutha Park. City Colts mustered up 10/175, a score Beechworth would fancy themselves to chase, however, a moment of brilliance on the second last ball of the day from Kent Braden has the Wanderers on the back foot. The Wanderers were forced to bat two overs at the end of the day with Braden claiming the crucial wicket of the dangerous Kayde Surrey to have the home side 1/2 at the close of day one. City Colts skipper Mitch Giggins was pleased with his side’s display. “It was a really good day considering we were skittled for under 100 by Yarrawonga Mulwala last week,” Giggins said. “It was a huge credit to everyone to bounce back and make 175, even though we probably threw away making 200. “All in all it was a good day and having Kayde (Surrey) out early is something you wouldn’t read about.” Giggins said he wanted his side to put pressure on the Wanderers. “Going in we wanted to win the toss and bat first so we could put some

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

pressure on them through runs on the board,” he said. “We said at the start of the day if we make 150 two of their top four will need to make runs, if we make 175 three of them probably need to make runs and if we make 200 all four of them need to get going. “175 isn’t a bad score but the wicket was a belter, it was quick, bouncy and bad balls get punished so we probably would’ve liked 200.” It was a fairly even contribution with bat in hand for City Colts with Giggins (38), Kent Braden (34), Tyler Nanson (28) and Justin Solimo (24) all getting starts. “Kent was the anchor for us which isn’t something he usually does but he hung around and stayed patient,” Giggins said. “Every time he started to get going we lost a wicket and he’s smart enough to know to rein it in so his innings was crucial and it showed the younger boys how to play two-day cricket. “It was also good to see

Tyler Nanson make a few, he hasn’t had his best season but he looked really good on Saturday.” Giggins said his side will have to bowl well to defend their total. “They still have Brenton (Surrey), Clancy (Ellett) and Campbell Fendyk who can all make big scores so we’re going to have to bowl well,” he said. Meanwhile, Yarrawonga Mulwala grabbed the upper hand over Rovers United Bruck at WJ Findlay Oval. The Hawks were bowled out for just 108, with Yarrawonga Mulwala to resume at 0/11 on day two. Brock and Matt McCabe claimed three wickets each, while for the Hawks’ Paddy McNamara top scored with 35. With just .4 of a point separating the two sides at the top of the table the result of the clash could be the difference with just two rounds remaining. At Mansfield, Delatite have set Benalla Bushrangers 190 for victory. It was an even contribution from the home side with Gregor Fraser (31), Ben Martin (31), Nick Scales (30) and Lincoln Toy (29) all playing their part with the bat.

FINDING FORM: Tyler Nanson made 28 as City Colts set Beechworth 176 for victory. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

GOOD LEAVE: Paddy McNamara lets one go in Rovers United Bruck’s clash with Yarrawonga Mulwala. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

GOT HIM: Yarrawonga Mulwala celebrate a wicket against Rovers United Bruck. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Wangaratta Magpies in box seat against Ovens Valley ■ From back page

IN FORM: Zac Guilfoyle took 3/12 as Wangaratta Magpies grabbed the upper hand over Ovens Valley United. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

BACK FOOT: Gurjot Gosal rocks on the back foot.

Wangaratta Magpies openers Cooper Matheson (33 off 49) and Lachlan Hadden (13 off 45) got their side off to a solid start with the bat. “The intent with the bat was similar to last week,” Davies said. “’Coop’ (Matheson) and Lachie Hadden got on the front foot and the team through a tricky period so now it’s important that we get through the first five to 10 overs next week and chase the rest of the runs. “From there it’s going to be vital that we claim as many bonus points as we can, we know the showgrounds will be a good batting wicket so hopefully we can make a few runs.” Davies said he’s proud of the way his side has fought back from a slow start to the season. “It’s a credit to everyone that we’re still in the hunt for finals,” he said. “No one has given up or thought that we couldn’t play finals, so the ball’s in our court to get that done now.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024 - Page 19

SPORT

Blues fit and firing at pre-season GRETA’S footballers are putting in the hard yards ahead of the 2024 Ovens and King season in late March. The Blues have taken last season’s preliminary final loss to heart, using it as motivation to spur the playing group onwards. Coach Chris Dube said he was impressed with the fervour and effort the group had worked with in preseason, while having a good time as well. “It’s been really fun, it helps when you get a large

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

amount of people on the track first and foremost,” he said. “As a coach, it’s pretty exciting when you turn up to pre-season before Christmas and you’ve got 30 on the track, and then Christmas break comes and you start the next year and all of a sudden you’ve got another 30. “The guys are just really

keen to get busy and work hard. “We ended last year disappointingly, and we have to climb the mountain again. “We’ve been doing a lot of competitive work and we’re having a lot of fun along the way – so far, so good, it’s been a nice build.” Dube said his players had put the onus on themselves to continue to improve, unafraid of putting the work in for the results throughout the season. “Something that the players have driven themselves

is a bit of internal competition,” he said. “They’ve got Facebook pages set up, they’ve got internal things where they’re posting the fitness and the running, the guys are really competing against themselves. “If someone misses a night, they’re really eager to make up the next night during the week. “There’s a nice little bit of healthy competition building which allows it to be fun, but it also gives people goals to achieve.

“We know at the end of the day if we work hard then we have every opportunity of catching those other teams that we’ve respected for a long time. “ Last year’s Clyde Baker Medallist James McClounan has been leading from the front and setting standards, with many of the players pushing for selection in the senior squad. “I knew we’d get improvement, but I’ve probably been a little surprised at just how many of the existing players have come back in great

shape,” Dube said. “We’re being led by our leaders very well, the James McClounans and Josh Bells of the world turn up and drive standards. “Tom Baker and Tom Fursdon have taken fitness and training to a whole other level. “We’ve got a group of committed reserves fellas that want to play in the seniors, so they’re champing at the bit. “I’m just excited it really is a player-driven culture at the moment.”

Ovens Valley United claim one day title over RUB By WILLSON MACK OVENS Valley United claimed an underdog win over league powerhouse Rovers United Bruck on Sunday afternoon. The Hawks won the toss and elected to bat, but it wasn’t their day from the get go, losing four of their top five batters for single figure scores. Josh O’Donohue was the only Hawk to surpass 20, making 30 off 74 balls as RUB were rolled for 98 from 34.4 overs. Ovens Valley United’s Connor Forde (2/8), Gurjot Gosal (2/14) and Nicholas Bleeser (2/18) were all on song with ball in hand. RUB never backed down despite their modest total, running through Ovens Valley United’s top order. However, youngster Cooper Thomason stood tall making 37, while Bleeser (16) and Forde (14 not out) supported as the Tigers chased the total with four wickets in hand. ■ Full story in Wednesday’s paper.

STEAMING IN: Josh Ansell steams in.

ONE DAY WIN: Cooper Thomason and Ovens Valley United downed Rovers United Bruck at WJ Findlay Oval on Sunday. PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries

GOT HIM: Sam Piazza catches RUB skipper Paddy McNamara.

From City Colts to representative cricket for Newton

By CHLOE JAENICKE

LOCAL cricket player, Ruby Newton, recently played in a representative cricket tournament for the North East Knights. The tournament started on January 7 and spanned four weekends and Ruby said she was thrilled to be a part of the team. “It felt pretty amazing to get onto the team,” she said. Locally she plays for the City Colts under 14s team and said playing for them helped her get selected for the representative team. “By playing for my home team I just practiced hard and ended up getting onto the team,” she said. Ruby said she started playing cricket at a young age after being introduced to the sport by her uncle and never looked back. “I have always played cricket ever since I was really young and just really

loved it,” she said. “I enjoy meeting new people and it’s just a really fun sport to play.” Unlike the all-girls representative team, Ruby’s home team is a mixed team. Despite cricket being a male dominated sport, Ruby said she has faced very few difficulties thanks to the support of her family. “Being a girl in the sport can be sometimes be a bit challenging because the boys are a bit different and play a bit harder, but I’ve got two brothers on my home team so it’s not too bad,” she said. Ruby’s mum, Sally Newton, said she has done an amazing job both on the representative team and playing for City Colts. “We’re very proud of her and she’s done a fabulous job,” she said. “It’s hard for her to be the age she is and play on a mixed team, but she’s done very well.”

CRICKET STAR: Under 14s City Colts player, Ruby Newton, recently was selected to play on a representative team. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Monday, February 5, 2024

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Greta in good shape

Page 19

ONE DAY CHAMPS CONNOR Forde steered Ovens Valley United home to a maiden one day premiership, taking 2/8 with the ball along with an important knock of 14 not out ■ Full story in Wednesday’s paper. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

Magpies in box seat Wangaratta M W Magpies i rollll O Ovens V Valley ll U United, i d need d jjust 26 ffor third hi d victory i on the h trot WANGARATTA Magpies’ journey to the top four is well and truly alive. The Magpies haven’t been in the top four all season but are in the box seat to claim their third win on the trot against Ovens Valley United at Norm Minns Oval. The Tigers were rolled for

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

just 89 from 48 overs which could have been a lot less had Samual Piazza (24 not out) and Glen White (18) not performed at number nine

and 10 respectively. Wangaratta Magpies’ great Zac Guilfoyle was on song with the ball, claiming figures of 3/12 from six overs, while Frazer Dent (3/18) also played his part. The home side was then sent in to face 24 overs and finished the day at 2/64,

needing just 26 runs to claim victory with Jack Davies (5 not out) and Fraser Ellis (9 not out) at the crease. Wangaratta Magpies skipper Jack Davies said his side was strong with the ball. “Our plan was to bowl tight and the wicket’s would come and that’s exactly what

happened,” Davies said. “Credit to Piazza and White at the end there, they got away with a few and we could’ve been chasing a smaller total but we’re happy with what we’re chasing. “Our bowlers are really complementing each other and having ‘Clemmo’ (Chris

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Clement) back is a big point of difference for us, being a left armer. “And then we have ‘Guilly’ (Guilfoyle) at the other end swinging it away so it’s great to have different options and it worked a treat this weekend.” ■ Continued page 18