Wangaratta Chronicle 050424

FUN FOR FURRY FRIENDS

ALEX Cogell and ‘Jagger’ were pictured yesterday warming up for Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club’s championship show this weekend. Events will be running from today through to Sunday at Wangaratta Showgrounds.

■ STORY ON PAGE 6

HOUSING relief is in sight for Wangaratta with the State Government committing to partial financial support for a $50 million, 250 home affordable housing development at the former Ovens College site on Greta Road. It will positively address a portion of the waiting list

deliver hundreds of affordable new homes in the state’s North East under its plan for 800,000 new homes to be built over the next decade.

Minister for Precincts, Colin Brooks, announced the redevelopment of the former school site at 64 Greta Road on Thursday, thanks to an innovative partnership with

the Rural City of Wangaratta. Council CEO Brendan McGrath thanked the Victorian Government for their commitment to delivering housing in the North East, saying this assistance “will see the project moving forward”. “Our collaboration with Nestd Development Social

Enterprise underscores a shared commitment to community-centric development, environmental stewardship, and exemplary urban design principles,” he said.

Mayor Dean Rees confirmed at the March council meeting that the development would “turn a horrible, old site” into muchneeded accommodation that will benefit the community.

■ Continued page 3

“As we progress, council remains dedicated to working with Nestd Development Social Enterprise to guide this transformative development forward.”

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Farm’s dark future

Solar go ahead could see Meadow Creek family leave the land after four gyggenerations

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

A FARMING family bordering the proposed Meadow Creek solar facility site will consider selling their home, as a last resort, if the estimated 566ha solar farm is approved by the State Government.

Fourth-generation farmers John and Jess Conroy fear the facility’s approval will be fast-tracked by the government now the community’s right to appeal via the state tribunal has been erased.

And while they’ll fight tooth and nail to stop the development, Mr Conroy confirmed they will consider leasing or selling their land to the multinational companies which have already made offers, only if the government approves the permit.

“The government doesn’t seem to understand and they’re looking at this net zero agenda and it looks to me they will sacrifice anything to reach the net zero target,” Mr Conroy said.

“We’re working very hard, we’re paying taxes, we’re producing a lot of food and we’ve got no say.

“The community engagement process is just box ticking, as we’ve discovered, and when we queried (the government) as to why they (the proponents) haven’t given us more information, they are simply saying the proponents only have to answer them as best practice, they don’t have to give us any answers.”

The Conroys say that three separate companies have offered them high prices to sell out but it’s not something they want to do as they’re generational farmers and employ many people in the district.

“We could walk away and never work again, we could earn four times the amount of money from a solar farm

on our property than what we could be producing food,” Mr Conroy said.

“Our role is to produce food for the nation and we’re passionate about it and we’d like to think we do it well and we employ a lot of people directly and indirectly and we’re a big part of the community - we look after the community and the people we supply.

“Food is an integral part of why we get up every day, to go to work.”

The farmers met with Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy and Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees on Wednesday to further express their predicament, in what they described as undemocratic, following the government’s activation of the accelerated planning pathway for renewable energy projects on April 1.

Under the changes the

government has removed the process of appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for renewable energy development, which Mr McCurdy said is a major issue for communities who want to object to any decisions affecting them.

“We always believe that local government and local communities should have a say - we’re not anti-renewables, our communities support renewables, but we want to have a say in where they’re positioned,” he said.

“The government is trying to tell us we should go to the Supreme Court, but that’s ridiculous - it’s too expensive and it’s only on point of law, so we can’t go because of a planning process (problem).

“My understanding is that this could be unconstitutional and at this stage the only

opportunity for people to object would be through the Supreme Court.”

Based on 17 land sales in the Meadow Creek area, the price per hectare is estimated at more than $31,000 (2022 land sales data), making it some of the highest priced farmland in the state.

The Biodiversity Council of Victoria has called for a plan to map appropriate parcels of land for renewable energy facilities prior to the government approving a mass roll out and it’s a move Mr McCurdy will support.

“I would absolutely support that and if we can come back with a plan and say these are areas and regions that are best suited to solar and renewable projects we can get the community on board,” he said.

“There are communities who will embrace it and

there are places which have lower rainfall areas, but on prime agricultural land, we don’t support at all.

“If you have maps and a greater understanding of areas into the future, people can plan if they want to live there in two, five or 10 years down the track.”’

Cr Rees said the Rural City of Wangaratta handles 99 per cent of planning applications that gives people the right to object and a second right to take it to VCAT if they feel their objections are valid.

He noted that an advisory panel to adjudicate the renewable energy projects roll out will be paid by the Victorian Government.

“I put it out there that within 10-15 years council, elected people from the community, it will be just run by government organisations - no coun-

cillors, mark my words on it, that’s where we’re heading,” Cr Rees said.

A State Government spokesperson said community consultation will continue to form a key part of the renewable project planning process.

“Of course Victorians will still be able to have their say and our planners will consider all submissions and unresolved issues will be referred to our advisory committee,” the spokesperson said.

“There are no changes to the public notice process and all members of the community will be able to make submissions.

“All objections and feedback will be considered as part of the usual assessment of any application.”

The Minister for Planning will ultimately have the final approval on all applications.

STANDING UNITED: Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy (left), farmers Jess and John Conroy and Rural city of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees (right) with the Glenrowan West Solar Farm behind them. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

China hope: winery uncorks end to heavy tariffs

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

EASTER celebrations uncorked a day early for King Valley’s biggest wineries as they now look to re-enter the Chinese export market.

The Federal Government announced late last week that China would be lifting heavy tariffs on Australian wine over the weekend, ending a three-year freeze in trade.

BFWG winemaker and brand ambassador Katherine Brown said the winery was thrilled to have the opportunity to start the long-awaited re-entry into the popular market.

“We’ve got three staff members who are based in China and we’ve kept them on with the optimism the tariffs would be lifted at some stage so we could hit the ground running and get back

The Brown Family Wine Group (BFWG) at Milawa was one of Australia’s biggest exporters of wine before the tariffs were imposed, having spent 20 years investing in the market.

into the market as soon as possible,” she said.

Beijing imposed trade sanctions on $20 billion worth of Australian export products during an unsettled trade period in 2020.

China’s duties on Australian wine effectively made it unviable for Australian producers to export bottled wine to that market, which was worth $1.1 billion in 2019.

In lieu of the gaping China export market gap, Ms Brown said the winery looked to other avenues in export, includ-

ing improved focus on the United States and south-east Asian markets of Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia.

“We had some growth in those markets, but certainly nothing to fulfill where China was at,” she said.

Ms Brown said BFWG chief executive officer Cameron MacFarlane had recently visited Chinese shores in preparation for re-entering the market.

“Something we’re really excited about is in the past four years we haven’t been in

the market, there’s a whole group, a few million in fact, of people who are now of legal drinking age so we’re looking to tap into these new consumers,” she said.

“There’s going to be a really big Moscato and Cienna focus as we look to move our way forward into these markets.”

While the market re-entry will provide a significant reprieve to the winery’s trade, Ms Brown said the group would need to be patient before they could return to pre-

Speed, impaired driving remain Easter concerns

LOW-level speeding and impaired driving continued to be the main themes of concerned offending for local police over the Easter break.

A total of 232 offences were recorded in the Wangaratta Police Service Area over the Easter long weekend operation Nexus, with 5249 breath tests were conducted.

Senior Sergeant David Gillespie said offending rates had seen an increase locally throughout the weekend, due to speeding and impaired driving relating to drug and alcohol use.

“People don’t seem to be heeding the message, even though we came out and tried to be proactive in our messaging that were going to have

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

a lot of police out there,” he said.

“Our rates of offending in relation to speeding less than 10km/h above the speed limit regardless of the speed zone are still right up there, and that’s the category a lot of our local people have either been injured or are dying on our local roads.

“Unfortunately we’re still seeing a lot of offending with impaired driving and that’s far from ideal.

“I ask people to really be mindful of their speed and plan their trips in relation

to drinking and consuming drugs and alcohol.

“We did have a good, concerted effort locally in order to keeping our roads safe.

“The amount of traffic we had moving through, particularly in the high country, was quite significant and it was really good to see people coming to visit the North East at this time.”

The operation began on a devastating note in the region with the passing of a Rutherglen woman following a pedestrian collision in town’s Main Street last Thursday.

Pedestrian fatalities have doubled in the state this year compared to last year with 10 in 2024 and five at the same time in 2023.

Two of the fatal collisions occurred in rural areas, a trend which police have been particularly concerned about.

Senior Sgt Gillespie said the fatal collision had a damaging impact on the local Rutherglen community, and with daylight savings ending this weekend, he implored road users to take extra vigilance in driving to the conditions when around pedestrians.

“People are going to be driving in times of day where light levels will be altered and I ask them to make sure they’re driving to the conditions,” he said.

“It’s vital to make sure they’ve got headlights on in dark times or inclement

weather and to make sure they’re planning their trips and not finding themselves rushing when they should have taken extra time.”

Senior Sgt Gillespie said leading up to the next operation across ANZAC Day, local police will continue to strongly monitor low-level speeding, mobile use, seatbelt use, impaired driving and ensuring drivers are adhering to road signs moving forward.

State figures over the Easter long weekend showed more than 8000 traffic offences were detected, which included almost 4000 Victorians caught speeding, and over 400 people clocked travelling more than 25km/h over the speed limit.

tariff figures in the market.

“Preferences have changed a lot in China with a lot more of the population drinking less wine, so we need to get it back up there and essentially re-educate the Chinese consumer about Australian wine and occasions for wine drinking,” she said.

“Hopefully with a lot of work we can build things back up again, but we certainly don’t think it’s going to just be a flick of a switch and it’ll be back where it was pre2020.”

Housing boost for rural city

■ From page 1

The redevelopment of the site will provide around 250 new homes on the vacant area of land, including a mix of affordable private, social and disability housing.

The centrally located development will also include an early learning centre and a community centre, as well as sustainable design features.

The site is located within an established residential neighbourhood within walking distance to local services and easy access to healthcare providers and education centres.

The State Government will provide financial support and remove a land title restriction to enable the redevelopment of the councilowned site to occur.

The project is also seeking Federal Government funding.

Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines recently advocated for a $10 million contribution towards the housing development with Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers.

In her 2024-25 budget submission, she detailed that the total project cost is estimated at $50m, with $5m for precinct planning activities prior to construction, $3m for site preparation such as safely demolishing old buildings, $9m for sewage and water infrastructure and solar and battery infrastructure, and $20m to develop the mixed accommodation village.

We help you find, what you are good at and what your next step is towards your goal.

ON WATCH: Local police remain concerned with offending rates of low-level speeding and impaired driving following the Easter long weekend operation. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

Green light for Shanley Street development

By STEVE KELLY

AN application for the use and development of an office and accommodation building ancillary to an existing rural store on Shanley Street in Wangaratta has been approved by a majority of councillors, despite 21 submissions against the development.

Rural City of Wangaratta Council acting director of sustainability and culture, Simone Nolan, told those at the March council meeting last week that the key planning issues discussed were about land use compatibility, the nature of the rural store land use, traffic, amenity management, and potential environmental issues.

Several questions read out by Mayor Dean Rees at the meeting were about the requirements of a ‘kangaroo carcass processing facility’ allegedly pertaining to the site, however, he stated that the application was not for a processing plant and the applicant “does not

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have a licence to process”.

Ms Nolan proceeded to answer the questions with the statement, “the existing rural store operations are not subject to the application”. However, a question read out by Cr Rees pertaining to future expansion of the site was met with a longer response by Ms Nolan.

“Having allowed the use of the property close to many rural residences as a kangaroo carcass processing facility, what plans does council have to prevent expansion of this facility considering the effect this has and will have on nearby residences in regards to its unsightly nature, traffic, waste disposal, considering how close it is sited to nearby residences?” the publicly read question asked.

Ms Nolan said any expansion of the rural store will require further planning approval for

the rural store with the floor area greater than 100sqm.

“If the land use transitions to include processing, the applicant would need to seek prior planning approval for the use of the land for rural industry,” she said.

“This would be subject to assessment on its merits based on the planning scheme and context of the site and the surrounds.

“The officer recommendation includes a requirement for screening, planting around the proposed office and accommodation and parking hard stand area.

“Completion of this planting would be enforceable under an issued planning permit.”

Part of the question was about planting around the motorcycle track but Ms Nolan said planting around the track would not be enforced as part of the permit application as the title allotment

was not part of the subject site.

Cr Irene Grant was the only councillor to vote against the motion to approve the permit and she cited her concerns.

“I have a number of concerns around the whole workability of the application and that’s why I’m speaking against it,” she said.

“It is also in a significant water catchment area and I am very concerned that the development would have an impact on the natural environment going into the Warby Range.”

Cr Harvey Benton said the application is really about the dwelling and not the activities of the rural store.

“PrimeSafe (a statutory authority operating un the Meat Industry Act) are the governing body, and they are the ones that are going to have to keep the applicant’s activities in the store up to date and up to speed and in control of their permit,” he said.

robots.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

Robots to kickstart school holidays

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WANGARATTA

Library held the first of its autumn school holiday workshops on Tuesday, April 2.

Students guided programmable robots through an obstacle course in a race to get through safely.

The next holiday program is Galaxy Jars, on today, Friday, April 5, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm at the library.

Students will have the chance to explore the wonders that make up the Milky Way galaxy by creating its beauty in a jar.

New townhouses approved for Templeton Street build

Councillor majority votes in favour of development despite existing heritage overlay j y p p g g y

A HOUSE within a heritage overlay in Templeton Street will be demolished and two 2-storey townhouses will be built despite council officers recommending it be refused.

The matter was brought before the Rural City of Wangaratta Council at last week’s meeting with a five to two vote in favour of the plans.

Works will involve the demolition of the house and outbuildings and vegetation, 2-lot subdivision and replacement of a front fence at 121 Templeton Street, located on the southern side, immediately south of the private hospital.

Council acting director of sustainability and cul-

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

ture Simone Nolan said the key planning issues relate to heritage impacts, neighbourhood character, amenity and overdevelopment.

“Having undertaken an assessment of the application against the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and the Wangaratta Planning Scheme and having considered public submissions to the proposal and response from referrals, officers are of the view that the proposal is not consistent with the Wangaratta Planning Scheme,” she said.

Mayor Dean Rees moved

TWO BEAUTIFUL GARDENS TO OPEN ON APRIL 20-21

TWO delightful gardens glistening with autumn colour, the The Stamp Garden and Gundabooka, will open to the public from April 20-21.

At 11 Kingfisher Drive in Wangaratta The Stamp Garden will provoke you to enjoy sweeping lawns surrounded by interesting garden borders.

There will be intense autumn colours at the time of this opening.

Gundabooka on Heywood Lane at Everton (off Great Alpine Road) will be open to public from 10am to 4.30pm, both days.

Entry to the gardens is $10 adults, students $6 and under 18 free via Trybooking at https://www. trybooking.com/CPHUN.

For information about the Open Gardens Victoria program visit opengardensvictoria.org. au.

an alternative motion that council issue a notice of decision to grant a planning permit.

“I did speak directly to the

building designer in relation to this to make sure the building met the res code laws which means if there was a heritage overlay would

this building fit the site and be approved, and the answer was yes,” Cr Rees said.

“They have setbacks, they have overshadowing on the neighbour’s house next door.

“We’re in a housing crisis at the moment and this is to take one house away that isn’t a flash looking home at present and certainly doesn’t fit the neighbourhood character.

“The owner will build a veranda to give it that Californian bungalow appeal which those (neighbourhood) houses have.”

Cr Rees noted that 20 years ago heritage was placed on several areas of Wangaratta that never had it and he reinforced that Heritage Victoria was an advisory authority

only and has no say on the final decision by council.

Cr Harry Bussell said people have to be more creative with the way they build houses compared to the past and he supported the permit.

Cr Jack Herry was against the approval, and he moved a motion to refuse a notice of decision which was only supported by Cr Dave Fuller.

“Councillor Bussell’s comments around we have to do and think about things differently apply in this instance and we need to apply that to make sure they do design things correctly and fit in with our valuable heritage streetscapes, in which this is one,” he said.

FULL OF COLOUR: There will be a full spread of autumn colour on display when people visit Rhonda Stamp’s garden. GARDEN GLEE: Come along and see Rhonda Stamp’s garden at the Open Gardens Victoria display from 10am to 4.30pm on April 20 and 21.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

DAYS ARE NUMBERED: The house at 121 Templeton Street will be torn down to make way for two townhouses.

PHOTO: Nick Richards

Annual championship dog show to start the season

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WANGARATTA Kennel and Obedience Dog Club Inc is holding its annual championship show this weekend at Dan Smith Dog Arena, Wangaratta Showgrounds.

The club holds three major competition weekends every year, and this weekend’s show which commences today (Friday) will kickstart the 2024 season.

Club president Kevin Felmingham said there are 370 entries for events over the course of this weekend.

“The championships show is about the pure bred dogs and it’s a very big weekend for the club,” Mr Felmingham said.

“People have travelled interstate for the show, it brings plenty of tourism into our

town and Wangaratta motels are pretty much booked out because of the show this weekend.”

Judging will start at 8:30am everyday, Friday and Saturday commencing with sweepstakes and Sunday commencing with junior handlers.

Special prizes will be up for grabs with cash and sash prizes for all in show and group awards and trophy and sash prizes for sweepstakes awards.

On Saturday at 12:30pm, Mayor Dean Rees and Cr Harry Bussell will be at the event for the grand opening of the the venue’s new kitchen.

Caity’s Coffee van will be onsite over the weekend to fuel the fun and keep event goers caffeinated.

Show equipment vendors will be in attendance for any

dog enthusiasts looking to have a browse.

Admission is free with both camping and catering are available upon registration.

The class schedule is available at club’s website and digital catalogues will be available each morning of the show entry for participants to keep up to date over the weekend.

Mr Felmingham said this show is a solid stepping stone for any dog breeder hoping to achieve a championship ranking.

“We’ve put a lot of time and energy into getting us where we are today,” he said.

“It’s not just about training dogs, you have to put something back into the community.”

For enquiries contact 0497 017 328 or samihapembokes@ gmail.com.

Easter tourism up in region

Ned Kelly Discovery Hub experienced strong visitation, welcoming 945 patrons

By STEVE KELLY

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THE Easter weekend across the district was buzzing with thousands snapping up the last chance of warm weather coupled with an extended break before winter.

Rural City of Wangaratta acting director sustainability and culture, Simone No-

lan, said the Easter weekend saw a surge in visitors to the Wangaratta region as it remains a popular destination for holidaymakers, offering a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

“The Ned Kelly Discovery Hub experienced strong visitation, welcoming 945

visitors over the four-day holiday,” she said.

“Additionally, the visitor services team assisted 964 visitors across the municipality’s touch points.

“Various events in the High Country attracted crowds from Melbourne and beyond.

“As a result, our municipality served as a busy thor-

oughfare for many visitors exploring the region.”

Ms Nolan said the warm weather added to the appeal of the weekend, drawing campers to the King and Ovens rivers camping areas. There were numerous markets and exhibitions being held and the wineries were busy with serving pa-

trons from the region and Melbourne.

The Ovens and Murray Football Wangaratta derby crowd was estimated to be about 4000.

Barry Sullivan chairs a business forum and he gave an example that Dal Zotto Winery was extremely busy as they had to cater

for an extra 200 people.

“This gives a good indication that there were many visitors to the area,” Mr Sullivan said.

“I think people feel that this was the last chance to enjoy some warmer weather, so they were out and about making the most of what the region has to offer.”

ALL PAWS ON BOARD: Alex Cogell with ‘Jagger’ and Marion Gray, vice president of Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club, with ‘Meika’ and ‘Louisa’, are all set for the weekend’s show. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

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Autism diet information for young people

A CONVERSATION called “Feeding Harmony: Understanding and Supporting the Autism Diet in kids and teens” discussing the latest evidence in supporting neurodivergent kids and teens to enjoy a balanced diet while reducing distress, will be held at La Trobe University Albury-Wodonga campus on Thursday, April 11 at 6.30pm.

The event will feature Dr Brittany St John (paediatric occupational therapist and expert in feeding challenges in autistic children); Olga Tennison (Autism Research Centre) and Gabby Hope (adult and paediatric dietitian, Nurtured Nutrition and Dietetics, Albury). The conversation will explore what the research says on how to approach feeding

challenges in young people with autism, evidence-based strategies to support families, hands-on advice about how to implement these strategies in home and school settings, and how to set families up for long term success.

It will run from 6.30pm to 8pm at 133 McKoy Street, West Wodonga and is free to attend, with registration at eventbrite.com.au.

Donation to provide dignity to non-verbal students

ELEVEN iPads have been donated to non-verbal students at Wangaratta District Specialist School (WDSS) to aid with communication, both in and out of classroom.

State Schools’ Relief partnered with Bank First and ASCA for the fifth year running to provide the donation to young people in the Wangaratta community, allowing vital communication with families, teachers, carers and friends through the use of learning devices and language apps.

WDSS principal, Alysha Jackson, said the school was thankful to have 11 iPads donated for students, ensuring that every young person is able to participate with the same pride and dignity as their peers.

“Social worker Kerry Burns helps our speech therapist Lily Harrington to work

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

out which students need the iPads and Lily helps with the speech programs so they can do everything on the iPads,” Ms Jackson said.

“State Schools’ Relief provide iPads for the children with communication difficulties and then we make it work for each of our kids.

“Each goes to a specific student, and they take them to and from school.

“They are purely for communication.”

WDSS offers the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) in Hospitality and students are able to use their learning devices with language apps to work in their VPC3 café.

“VPC senior students from ages 15-18, who are studying

certificate 3, learn all the skills relevant to be at the counter, money skills, making coffee and preparing foods, it’s hands on practice for getting a job and some students already have jobs,” Ms Jackson said.

“Some of them are in their second year, others have come across from the different subjects that we offer.

“We have a number of non-verbal students in the class so that’s why the iPads are so useful because they set it up so it’s ready to use for those kids so they can still speak to people without having the words.”

Issy Taylor, aged 15, is among those to receive an iPad.

“For her, she will be able to use it in the café, in the classroom and at a job in an external place,” Ms Jackson said.

COMMUNICATION AID: Issy Taylor can use the iPad to communicate in class, at work and at home.

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Next generation full of community spirit

COMING closely on the tail of the annual Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal where the rural city community showed its generosity by raising more than $130,000, we feature two examples of that same spirit shining through in the younger generation.

The imaginatively named ‘Buzzcut Brothers’ from Cathedral College (page 11 today) raised more than $10,000 when they shaved their heads for the World’s Greatest Shave last week.

The band of selfless brothers, all year six students, turned what many at that age may seem a sacrifice too far into quite the occasion to garner support.

At a time when tabloid media, whether print or boradcast, seems to be expanding its reach with the focus more on sensationalism, fear-mongering, and who-can-weblame mentality, tends to paint a negative picture of our younger generations and portents of woe in the future, these young benefactors - Harrison Jose, Tom Benton, Robert Stribley, Will Reilly, Reece Pearson, Dakar Hilton, Mason Jones, Hayden Rhodes, Leonidas Fidge - and Alex Hodgson, are local heroes worth celebrating.

Similarly on this page we feature the remarkable students from Wangaratta Primary School who have shown you are never too young to make a positive difference to this world, raising an outstanding $6000 plus to support the Heart Foundation to fund ground-breaking research to fight heart disease.

The students skipped into the holidays by participating in a ‘jump off’ to conclude the school’s eight week involvement in the Jump Rope for Heart program, to smash their initial target of $2500.

Credit to the students, their parents and the wonderful teachers for bringing some positive news to the rural city.

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the weekly poll which asked: should FFMVic and Parks Victoria do more to avoid fuel reduction burns in busy tourism areas at Easter?

• Robyn Laskovas: No, they only have a small window to do the burns. Leave it to the experts.

• Karen Tobias: How many will house local people on the public housing wait list?

• Julie Roberts: Karen Tobias probably all of them, you can’t get into these units without being on the public housing wait list!

• Jack Carruthers: I doubt the average person is qualified to answer that question. Opinions are worthless. Facts are gold. Facebook users also commented on the new housing units taking shape on Templeton Street.

• Julie Roberts: Angela McAliece Yep.

• Angela McAliece: Julie Roberts there will also be an internal Uniting Housing application process and all prospective residents will be interviewed prior to receiving an offer.

• Julie Roberts: Angela McAliece I’ve read about this too. my understanding is you can’t go through this process

• Angela McAliece: Julie Roberts correct, they will all be from the Victorian Housing Register, all applicants must be on the VHR with a current application.

Kudos to WASAC staff over Easter break

THE Wangaratta Indoor Sports and Aquatic Centre has been coming under much criticism lately, but they are to be congratulated for the fact they could get operational staff to run the centre on a reduced program over the Easter break.

I had friends from Boomahnoomoonah ring me as the internet was out to see if the pool was open.

Five letters on Google and I had the website up, which showed there was reduced access, but it would be open from 8am to 4pm on every day.

Great to see some staff members who were prepared to forgo the Easter holidays and provide at least eight hours each day at the facility for residents and visitors to use it. Let’s hope this is the start of a turnaround in service being offered at the Barr.

Ken Clarke, Wangaratta

It’s time for everyone to act swiftly on vaping

I’VE witnessed the damaging impact of vaping on the youngest members of our community while travelling through regional Victoria this year.

The proposed legislation means that highly-addictive vapes marketed to kids using bright colours and fruity flavors will no longer share shelf space with chocolate bars and candies at your local convenience store, often nearby schools.

Legislation will make it illegal to sell vapes to anyone without a prescription.

It will stop retailers in their tracks who are supplying vapes to kids and non-smokers.

We made a terrible mistake allowing tobacco products to be widely available causing immeasurable harm and death and addicting generations of young people to nicotine.

We do not want to make the same mistake with e-cigarettes.

We must protect our children from these highly toxic products – that’s why we’re calling on all members of parliament to back in our kids’ health over industry profits and get behind the new legislation.

It’s understandable that many parents in the community might be feeling worried about the impact vaping is having on their kids.

The great news is having a conversation with your child is a powerful way to stop them from vaping or help them take the first steps towards quitting.

if you are not on the public housing wait list. Is that right?

• Karen Tobias: Angela McAliece so if someone local has been on the list for a while for a 1 bedroom unit and is currently homeless should they enquire at the Uniting Church offices in Rowan Street?

• Angela McAliece: Karen Tobias please contact the Uniting office at 12 Rowan St - 5723 8000. We are keeping a list of enquiries at this stage.

Have your say in Wangaratta Chronicle poll

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

Should daylight savings finish at the end of summer?

VicHealth’s website has a conversation guide for parents at vichealth.vic.gov.au/ourhealth/vaping, aimed at helping you have meaningful, non-threatening conversations with your teen about vaping. No one is saying this is simple and there isn’t one silver bullet to solve this problem.

It’s going to take action from all of us –politicians, health organisations and the community to create genuine change.

Dr Sandro Demaio, CEO of VicHealth

POLL RESULTS

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FACEBOOK users this week commented on the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracey.

• Gayle Marie: I was in Cyclone Tracey, hard to believe it’s coming up 50 years. A night I will never forget

• Angella Francis: Gayle Marie my Mum was too. I was supposed to fly up over that period but thankfully didn’t.

• Catherine Jones: Sad day in Australian history i was 13 at the time & hearing about the cyclone put a damper on Xmas.

• Tracey Ashcroft: Luckily I wasn’t named after it , was born 1971.

• Janine Airey: Wow 50 years since we had the aftermath hit our farm in Greta all I remember was our farm dog wanted to be inside ran straight to the shower stood there then the minute the storm passed he wanted to go outside. We lost the machinery shed, iron off the roof and most likely more I was 5 nearly 6 at the time.

Facebook users this week also commented on a semi-

Thank you to everyone who came along to one of our March into Sustainability events last month. wangaratta_council Follow

Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.

trailer blocking Rowan Street on Wednesday, trying to do a multiple point turn.

• Julie Roberts: They really need to have signs with clearance a lot further back from that bridge on all approaches!!!

• Julian Savery: That’ll fit!!! Here hold my beer....

• Kerry Robinson: At least he realised and requested assistance, and didn’t wedge himself under the bridge.

• Gary Allen: Good stuff trucker long as everyone is safe !!!

• Ebony Kennedy: Ro Kennedy we missed this by an hour

• Jason Compton: Bridge height sign is incorrect, however they all are to allow for some tolerance. I know for a fact 4.3m will fit under this particular bridge. 4.4 would too but old mate in the pic would be 4.6. Good on him for making the correct decision....eventually!!

• Eighties Rock: Happened not long ago with a Bdouble cattle truck, he reversed back through the roundabout

X Users this week posted about packed train, electric vehicle chargers and reminiscing on the Wangaratta Velodrome.

Asher Wolf @Asher_Wolf

Had to book Kid on a NSW XPT from Wangaratta to Melbourne tomorrow because I could not reserve a seat on the Vline. Fully booked

David Cao @DavidCaoEV

First time using the Wangaratta SC. One of the few sites with a bin. @TeslaCharging

Boka @rufusoungblood

Yes Russell I was a kid but watching champions on the track in the Austral and places like Wangaratta was the greatest show on earth. Stephen Pate off 10 behind scratch. I never saw Sid Patterson but my dad ranked him, Bradman and Walter Lindrum as Australia’s greatest.

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

BEVERIDGE TO ALBURY TRANCHE 1 WORKS

Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

14,760 Tweet

Weeding Racing @craigweeding

It was a busy Wednesday morning of jumpouts on our home track. Thanks to Wangaratta Turf Club for capturing some moments.

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES APRIL - MAY 2024

We are constructing Inland Rail in Victoria.

Works are progressing to provide sufficient clearance for double-stacked freight trains along the existing North East rail line.

Following the opening of the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge, the finishing touches including installation of street lighting and footpaths are being undertaken. In Wangaratta, works are continuing on the pedestrian underpass entrances and western platform. Bridge abutment and foundation works are being undertaken at Green Street, Wangaratta and Seymour-Avenel Road, Seymour.

To view all works notifications visit, inlandrail.info/notifications

Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, generating opportunities for our regions and our economy, now and into the future.

We thank you for your patience and cooperation while we carry out these works

If you’re interested in work on the Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 project sites, visit mcconnelldowell.com/people/career-opportunities

Scan the QR code or visit inlandrail. info/construction to sign up for project newsletters, updates and information.

PLANNED WORKS INCLUDE:

Wangaratta

• Construction of new western platform and eastern underpass ramp, stairs and lift shaft.

Station drainage, water main and fire hydrant relocation.

• Green Street abutment removal and new bridge strengthening works.

Glenrowan

Installing streetlighting, pedestrian handrails and anti-throw screens.

• Local roads and footpath construction.

• Excavation and piling for deflection walls adjacent to the track.

• Water main works near Siege Street.

Seymour

• Piling and concrete formwork for the new bridge abutments. Road approaches either side of the bridge.

• Running test trains to assess track performance after completing works to shift the track horizontally.

Corridor-wide

• Rail bridge strengthening works.

• Overhead powerline works.

Rethink biosecurity bill: MP

INDEPENDENT federal MP for Indi Helen Haines has urged the Federal Government to refer new biosecurity legislation to a senate committee to ensure farmers have their voices heard in the design of a new levy.

“This bill is imposing a new levy on our farmers, to combat biosecurity risks which they don’t create,” Dr Haines said.

“I therefore urge the government to send these bills to the Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport where they can be properly scrutinised.”

Dr Haines opposed the government’s Agriculture (Biosecurity Protection) Levies and Charges Bill, after hearing the concerns of farmers and tax experts that the levy model pro-

posed in the Bill lacked transparency and sensible design.

“The government has not done the work to gain the support of the people most impacted by this new model of levy –farmers,” Dr Haines said.

“I welcome the early general consultation the government did with stakeholders, but on this specific levy model, the government failed to

Lots of variety at youth hub

THERE is plenty happening for young people at Wangaratta’s youth hub, Synergy, over coming months.

Activities at the hub, which is located at 29 Flanagan Street, Wangaratta, are geared towards 12 to 17-year-olds.

During the school holidays, on April 8, there will be games and nachos from 11am to 1pm, followed by a screening of Taylor Swift ’s ‘The Eras Tour’ from 1pm to 4.30pm (bookings are required for the movie, and can be made by visiting https:// events.humanitix.com/taylor-swift-theeras-tour-taylor-s-version-watch-party).

Monday, April 15 offers young people

the chance to learn more about the Rural City of Wangaratta’s FReeZA group.

April 22 and June 3 will be the days to head to the hub if you enjoy board games, and on Monday, May 6 there will be a tshirt bleaching workshop.

Monday, May 20 will focus on Respectful Relationships, while June 17 will be Movie Monday.

The hub is regularly open on Mondays during school terms from 3.30pm to 5.30pm, and young people aged between 12 and 17 are encouraged to drop in for planned activities, to watch TV, play games, do homework, and meet other teens.

meaningfully engage and listen.”

The bill imposes a new model of levy on primary producers based on the proportional share of total gross value of production of each sector.

For instance, the beef sector will pay a higher rate than a small sector like potatoes.

“I agree, as farmers do, that we need a sustainable

and secure system that sets Australia up to respond to biosecurity threats, such as foot and mouth disease,” Dr Haines said.

“However, this bill has been drafted without adequate consultation.

“The model proposed in this bill does not guarantee that money collected from farmers will go directly to-

wards strengthening Australia’s biosecurity arrangements.

“The Productivity Commission and the Australian National University’s Tax and Transfer Institute both recommend this levy be funded from general tax revenue given the benefits of biosecurity protections flow to all Australians.

“It is not fair for farmers to carry this financial burden.”

Alpine to The Vine nears $10k fundraising target

By SIMONE KERWIN

ABOUT 30 locals joined in the running of the Alpine to The Vine event which finished in Wangaratta on March 16. Initiated by former local Danny Allan to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute, the 80km ultra event saw Danny running alongside brother Robbie, with community members invited to join them at various intervals between Bright and Wangaratta.

It was staged as part of now-Scotland-based Danny’s Smls (pronounced Smalls) project - an online platform for movement-based events which raises money for various mental health initiatives worldwide.

Smls emerged from Dan-

ny’s passion to make a difference for those experiencing mental health issues, after losing his best mate Karl (affectionately known as Charlie) to suicide at age 18.

“We had a great turnout for Alpine to The Vine, and the local community really jumped on board and supported the day,” Danny said.

“The highlight for me was the incredible support we received from the local community; not just in cash donations, but also all the local businesses which put up prizes for our local raffle, as well as reconnecting with old friends, which was pretty special.

“The super talented Richard Iskov captured the entire day for us.”

Alpine to The Vine has so far raised almost $8500 towards the Black Dog Institute’s crucial mental health research and support services.

That’s just shy of the $10,000 goal, and donations can still be made via the smlsgoods Instagram page or by visiting https://www.teamblackdog. org.au/fundraisers/Alpinetothevine

Danny’s next challenge is PAIN 132 in Edinburgh, and Charlie’s Loop, which will be held in multiple cities including Melbourne on September 7.

To find out more about these events, visit @smlsgoods on Instagram.

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

ROAD TO SUPPORT: Community members joined Danny Allan (front right, with pack) on the run along the way from Bright to North Wangaratta.

PHOTO: Richard Iskov

Buzzcut Brothers raise over $10,000 for the World’s Greatest Shave

By CHLOE JAENICKE

THE ‘Buzzcut Brothers’ from Cathedral College raised more than $10,700 when they shaved their heads for the World’s Greatest Shave last week.

The team consisted of 10 year six students who all shaved their heads in front of a crowd of classmates, friends and family on March 28.

Team members were Harrison Jose, Tom Benton, Robert Stribley, Will Reilly, Reece Pearson, Dakar Hilton, Mason Jones, Hayden Rhodes, Leonidas Fidge and Alex Hodgson.

The plan to shave their heads initially started of as a casual suggestion between friends that then quickly gained momentum as they quickly surpassed their initial goal of $1000 and anticipation for the shave rose.

Team member Dakar Hilton said he was blown away by the support they received.

“I was feeling really excited the day before we got our heads shaved and I reckon everyone else was as well,” he said.

“There was a team spirit knowing that everyone was working together to raise money for a great cause.

“It was a massive surprise reaching $10,000 because our goal we talked about at school was $1000.”

26th driest March in 100 years

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WANGARATTA has had a dry start to autumn with last month being our 26th driest March in the past 100 years.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology weather station at Wangaratta airport, the city had 16.8mm of rainfall last month, which was just over a third of the median (42.2mm)

rainfall for March.

Wangaratta only had rain two days in March, which is half the average (mean 4) number of days of March rainfall across the last 100 years.

Last month’s mean minimum temperature was 10.2 degrees, close to the long term mean minimum temperature (10.9) for the month.

The mean maximum tem-

perature for March was 30 degrees, slightly higher than the long term mean maximum temperature (27.6) for previous years.

Despite having a dry March, the rainfall of 138.8mm in January (mean 44.6mm) and 37.2mm in February (mean 41.2mm) brought the total rainfall for the year so far to 192.8mm,

which is well above the average rainfall of 128mm for the first three months of the year.

Wangaratta’s outlook for April, according to the bureau, is a 59 per cent chance of above median temperatures of 22.6 degrees and a 27 per cent chance of unusually warm median temperatures above 23.7 degrees.

According to the bureau, the historical median rainfall for April in Wangaratta is 32.7mm, and it says there is a 32 per cent chance of that occurring this month, with a 30 per cent chance of an unusually dry April (15mm or below) and only an 18 per cent chance of an unusually wet (50.4mm) April.

Wangaratta recorded

11.8mm of rainfall on the first day of April, up until 9am Tuesday, April 2.

According to the bureau, Australia nationwide has an increased chance of below median rainfall for April to June.

The chances of unusually low rainfall is below 50 per cent for all areas except the north-west.

BLOWN AWAY: Reece Pearson, alongside the other Buzzcut Brothers, was amazed at the support they received.

GREAT CAUSE: Harrison Jose shaved his head for the World’s Greatest Shave.

BUZZCUT BROTHERS: Shaving their heads and raising more than $10,000 for the World’s Greatest Shave were (from left, back row) Harrison Jose, Tom Benton, Robert Stribley, Will Reilly, Reece Pearson, Dakar Hilton, Mason Jones; (front row) Hayden Rhodes, Leonidas Fidge and Alex Hodgson. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

The Common Yabby

THE Yabby is a crustacean which means instead of having an internal skeleton like us and other mammals and birds they have a hard exoskeleton and jointed, paired appendages and a body divided into a head, thorax and abdomen, two eyes and two pairs of antennae.

The Yabby has the largest range of all Australian freshwater crayfish and they occur inland of the Great Dividing Range, throughout the Murray-Darling system, including most of Victoria, western New South Wales, south-western Queensland and eastern South Australia.

They have an enlarged, pincer-like first pair of legs and their colour is highly variable and depends on water clarity and habitat.

Yabbies can range from black, blue-black (like the photo on this page), or dark brown in clear waters to light brown, green-brown, or beige in muddy waters.

cean c like us l d leton l ende into men, of gg n t t out o m, a, es, e nd alia. d, d gs g y y ter m he h ark many m orary o mely

Yabbies are found in many river systems and temporary waterways and are extremely hardy.

They can survive dry condi-

condic

tions for many years by lying dormant in burrows sunk deep into muddy creeks and swamp beds

During the wet season, they can travel kilometres across wet land in search of new waters to make a new home.

As well as freshwater ponds, lakes, rivers and creeks they are also common in many farm dams Their scientific name is Cherax destructor, with destructor being applied because they often dig into dam and levee banks weaknesses

dam and levee banks causing

Yabbies feed on litter, like dead leaves and other decaying vegetation and are opportunistic carnivores, especially of carrion like dead fish.

They in turn are an important food source for many waterbirds, Platypus, Rikali, turtles and many species of fish

They breed in spring when the water temperature reachees 15 to 16 degrees centigradde and the first batch of eggs (100 0 to 500 eggs per individual, depending upon the size of thhe e fe f malle) ha hatchees s ei e ght t to o 10 0 week e s later r in n earrly y summme m r.

the female) hatches eight to 10 weeks later in early summer.

As soon as the young have left (a further three weeks later), the female is ready to breed again.

As sooon as the h you o ng g have e le l ft a furt r her r th t ree e we w eks laater), thhe fe f ma m le l is s re r ady to o br b eed aggai a n. n

It I is s immport r ant th that a when ya y bbiees are e coolllec e ted for r eating or bai a t that femmal a es with h eg e gs s stuck und n er e their tai a l ar a e re r tu t rnned to th t e wa w ter r to maain i tain i popul u ations

Check your caddy liners before you bin them.

Only certified compostable liners are accepted in your food and garden organics bin.

Other types of liners and bags won’t break down correctly and will contaminate the resulting compost. So check for the AS 4736 symbol before putting a liner in your green bin. You can also put your food scraps and garden clippings in the bin loose.

Small acts make a big impact.

Council logo goes here [QR Code] wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Find out more: <councilname>.vic.gov.au

Students, teachers paws to remember Jean

Agentle friend and companion to students and teachers alike, the Carraragarmungee Primary School community is mourning the loss of their therapy dog, Jean, who passed away from cancer on March 10 at the age of six.

Jean was the best friend of teacher Thomas O’Hehir and came into his life as a young puppy, the only pure black girl in a litter of 12 German Shepherds. Thomas said he knew she was for him the moment he laid eyes on her, and true to the breeder’s word, she was incredibly cheeky and headstrong as a pup, stealing and hiding things she thought were of value to Thomas, from his socks, shoes and laptop bag, to the matchboxes he needed to light the fire in winter.

They formed a strong bond and consequently Jean sought approval from Thomas - eager to please him - which made her easy to train.

Thomas said her soft, playful and caring nature were evident right from the start and it was the school’s principal, Marie de Prada, who first had the thought she would be an excellent support for students.

Jean started coming to school when she was one year old and became qualified as a therapy dog just six months later.

“There was nothing Jean enjoyed more than playing with her kids outside, in particular stealing their balls from whatever game they were playing so they had to chase her,” Thomas said.

“She was always there for our kids if they needed someone to play with at lunchtime and really

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

connected with those that played regularly with her.

“She waited at the door every morning for the kids to arrive and was never satisfied until at least two thirds of the school had arrived.

“She spent the entire first lockdown waiting at the front door for kids to arrive that never came, largely sleeping through the pandemic when she realised learning was to be done remotely.”

Thomas said while some kids had a simple and casual relationship with Jean - saying good morning, giving her a quick pat and interacting with her throughout the day - other kids, like those with separation anxiety, relied heavily on Jean throughout the day.

“On my command, Jean would stay with these kids at the door or in front of the sensory tent, until they had calmed,” Thomas said.

“The whole time she would watch me, almost seeming to seek feedback as to how well she was doing with that particular kid.

“All the kids knew that Jean loved stories and if she fell asleep while you read to her it meant that you were doing a brilliant job.

“Consequently, Jean acted as an incentive and reason for kids to try their best - even when learning was challenging.

“She featured widely in kid’s stories, mathematical problems and artwork during the entire five years of her service as a therapy dog.”

CLOSE FAMILY: Carraragarmungee

Primary School teacher Thomas

O’Hehir first brought Jean to school at the age of one and said she always calm and gentle with the kids.

Jean loved going anywhere on the bus and supported kids who were worried about being away from home, and she took to school camps with enthusiasm.

She was also well-known in the broader school cluster, supporting kids from other schools during their events and activities together, so it’s not just Carra who is missing her.

“It seems like Jean and I were forever being stopped in the street by people who knew her from the Chronicle, met her only once before, or had just heard of a large black wolf that had become a therapy dog,” said Thomas.

GOOD

and

to students like George Newman and his schoolmates at Carraragarmungee Primary School.

“She gave everyone - staff included - a reason to come to school, even when times were tough.

“She could be counted on to always be in the same mood, always be up for play, scratches, pats and cuddles.

“Jean was a constant which, for some kids who lacked stability in their lives, was more valuable than I think I’ll really ever know.”

As a therapy dog, Jean had the complete trust of staff, and helped foster belonging for kids, bringing them together in work and play, making everyone feel loved and welcome.

She knew her job was

important, and Thomas says she would always snap to attention when told “time for work,” and at the start of each year when her jacket was taken out of the closet. Now, he says there is unmistakable emptiness in the school and a very immediate sense that something is missing, or not quite right.

But he says being a small school, they have always been good at monitoring everyone’s wellbeing, including staff - so the school community held a commemoration for Jean as part of their Easter breakup and will have a plaque in the garden to honour her service.

FINDING COMFORT: Students of all ages, like George Wilson, received care and attention from Jean.

TRUSTWORTHY COMPANION: Once Jean put her jacket on it was time to go work and she enjoyed every minute of it, as did the students like Isla Waldhart and Avah Curran.

PAL: Jean gave unconditional love

support

Man bailed after erratic driving

A MELBOURNE man arrested on erratic driving charges near Wangaratta has admitted to assaulting an ex-partner and breaching an intervention order.

Appearing at Wangaratta Magistrates Court in custody, the defendant was granted bail to return home to Melbourne as he awaits a sentence and plea hearing in May.

Police prosecutor Senor Constable Victoria Lennon told the court the man was intercepted by Wangaratta police on January 24 on the Hume Freeway and taken to a Wangaratta hospital.

The defendant’s ex-partner had alerted police, concerned that the man, driving erratically on the freeway, facetimed her and threatened to cut himself with a machete.

The court heard the defendant had taken his mother’s car earlier in the day and breached an intervention order by visiting his ex-partner before he commenced his roadtrip on the freeway.

Police said a search of the vehicle revealed a machete in the back seat, methamphetamine stored in a shoe and a firearm hidden under the air filter.

During questioning the defendant said he had no memory of how the firearm came to be stored in the car and admitted to battling with drug addiction.

The court heard the defendant’s ex-partner had taken out an intervention order after the defendant allegedly assaulted her, in front of their three children, at her Epping home.

Defence counsel Mark Martoccia said his client was at a different stage with his mental health and drug use at the time of his offending and had improved during his time in custody.

After spending the past 60 days in custody, the man was released on bail with conditions he avoid drug use and driving.

Discover hidden treasures with Local Shop Hop focus

TIME

VISIT: With

shop Hop

THE Rural City of Wangaratta has relaunched its Local Shop Hop.

From April to November, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore the rural city’s charming townships for a chance to win some great prizes by supporting local businesses.

Local Shop Hop will take you through Eldorado, Glenrowan, King Valley, Milawa, Moyhu, Oxley, Wangaratta, and Whorouly, with each town offering its own distinct ambiance and hidden treasures.

Mayor Dean Rees said Local Shop Hop is all about encouraging

support for local businesses and discovering what’s available right in our own backyard. It also offers participants the chance to win great prizes through monthly Shop Local prize draws.

Imagine just popping into your favourite local spot, grabbing something you love, and then walking away with a prize.

All you need to do is scan a QR code whenever you make a purchase at participating spots.

Businesses of all kinds are on board - your morning coffee place, that winery you’ve been meaning to visit, retail stores, and more.

Harry winner of Karen Chetcuti Award

WANGARATTA Sports and Aquatic Centre duty manager Harry Miller was last week announced the winner of the Karen Chetcuti Award. The annual award, which was announced at the Rural City of Wangaratta’s all-staff breakfast, acknowledges a team member who demonstrates council’s values of trust, respect, openness, fairness, excellence and enjoyment - traits which were constantly displayed, along with a friendly, welcoming smile, by former Rural City of Wangaratta staff member Karen Chetcuti.

LOCAL plumber Josh Trimble’s plumbing business has operated in the Wangaratta area for more than 15 years and since starting work on Inland Rail’s Beveridge to Albury section, he’s almost doubled his workforce.

With a team of 11 staff, including five apprentices, Josh recognises the valuable employment opportunities

he’s been able to offer local youths.

“Our apprentices are at various stages of their training,” he said.

The work with Inland Rail and contractor McConnell Dowell provides on-the-job training.

“Safety is a priority and as an employer of people at the beginning of their careers

I have confidence that they are getting the necessary

Council chief executive officer Brendan McGrath said Mr Miller has made a significant contribution to both the organisation and the community, serving as a duty manager at WSAC while pursuing studies in paramedicine at university.

He said he frequently exceeds expectations by stepping into the role of manager in the absence of senior staff

“Harry also serves as an outstanding role model for younger lifeguards and duty managers, demonstrating exceptional leadership

tools to work safely on a day-to-day basis,” Josh said.

He admits it’s rare to get exposure to a job this size early on in a career and the opportunity gives apprentices the confidence to take the next step.

Josh said as a smaller contractor working on a large-scale project, McConnell Dowell has been incredibly supportive of the team onsite.

qualities by consistently addressing below-par behaviour, and assisting members of the public with grace,” Mr McGrath said.

“He has demonstrated his excellence through a successful career journey at WSAC; beginning as a café attendant, advancing to roles as a lifeguard and customer experience officer, then applied for the position of duty manager shortly after his 18th birthday.”

In accepting the award, Mr Miller thanked the WSAC team, who he said had “shaped who I am as a person”.

“The structure of a school-based apprenticeship links education to employment and the experience of day-to-day operations,” he said.

“The McConnell Dowell team of site supervisors create a great environment and are fantastic with the trainees.

“Following the completion of their apprenticeships, trainees often go on

It’s all about getting out there, exploring what the local townships have to offer, and giving a little love back to the local economy.

Throughout the duration of Local Shop Hop businesses will be showcased on council’s social media, with each township taking centre stage for a dedicated month - ensuring shoppers stay informed about upcoming events, promotions, and must-visit destinations.

Kicking off at Glenrowan this month, council invites everyone to come shopping and take this opportunity to support local businesses.

Ostomates support group information and suppliers day next week

NORTH East Ostomates Support Group is holding an information and suppliers day at the Masonic Hall in Appin Street on Saturday, April 13 from 10am to 2pm.

The group is for anyone who has or is going to have a stoma for whatever reason, e.g. Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease.

“We are a support group that was set up to help people who are going through a period where there is an enormous amount of stress because of associated medical conditions known as Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease or they have had an operation for whatever reason and they now have a stoma,” group convenor Graeme Pitts said.

“All of our members understand the need for support and understanding during this period and are only too happy to talk to anyone who is going through this very stressful period and are trying to come to grips with having a stoma for the first time.”

The suppliers day includes displays from Ainscorp Pty Ltd, Coloplast, Hollister, Omingon, Dansac, and the Ostomy Association of Melbourne.

Lunch will be supplied on the day so please RSVP by 5pm Wednesday, April 10 to Graeme Pitts on 0407 240 943.

For Information contact Graeme 0407 240 943 or Amanda Forbes on 03 5722 5111.

to complete their plumbing licences or pursue further training.

“A job like Inland Rail doesn’t come along that frequently and it presents a fantastic opportunity and exposure to a national job.”

DESERVING WINNER: Karen Chetcuti Award winner Harry Miller (left) with Rural City of Wangaratta chief executive officer Brendan McGrath following the announcement of the award.

TO

Local

focusing on Glenrowan this month, the town, including its new Ned Kelly Discovery Hub, is well worth a visit.

The Roy Orbison Story tonight

A THEATRICAL production which sheds light on the mystery and music of the enigmatic Roy Orbison, comes to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tonight.

Mark Shelley is described as “simply brilliant” in his characterisation of Roy Orbison, and with his band, they’ll present the story of his life and work in a show featuring 20 of Orbison’s greatest hits, like Only the Lonely, Running Scared, Sweet Dream Baby, Candy Man, Blue Bayou, In Dreams, Anything You Want, Crying, Workin’ for the Man, Penny Arcade, Pretty Woman and many more.

The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets are available now at wpacc. com.au.

Library book sale on Saturday

THE Friends of Wangaratta Library are holding a book sale on Saturday morning from 9.30am to 12 noon at Wangaratta Library.

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

Enjoy dreamy exhibition at Art Gallery on Ovens

A NEW exhibition of artworks by local artists Linda D’Agostino and Melissa Johns is showing at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

It includes layered landscapes by Linda in soft pastel hues, and mixed media works by Melissa incorporating sustainable, upcycled materials, along with ink drawings and illustrations.

The exhibition will run at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street until April 15, open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm with entry free.

THE Off-Grid Living Festival returns for its sixth year, with this weekend’s event being held at the new location of the Chiltern Racecourse and Recreation Reserve.

Festival director Kate Nottingham said attendees will discover a vibrant array of 300 exhibits, workshops, and activities designed to showcase practical solutions for sustainable living, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals with an exciting mix of education and entertainment for all ages.

“We believe that sustainability shouldn’t be viewed through a lens of doom and gloom,” Ms Nottingham said.

“Instead, it’s an opportunity to embrace creativity, self-reliance, and a deeper connection with nature.

“That’s the essence of what the Off-Grid Living Festival is all about.”

From off-grid energy solutions to permaculture gardening

In Grief at the Wangaratta Art Gallery

AN exhibition called In Grief which brings together work by artists Maissa Alameddine and Emily McIntosh, who together examine the multifaceted layers of trauma, displacement, loss and the complexities of grief, is being held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Through performance, glass and installation, both artists produce works that pay homage to past traumas, loss and sorrow that through the processes of making and production act as both memorials, and a way to preserve memories. See it at the gallery until April 21.

techniques and traditional skills, Ms Nottingham said the festival offers something for everyone interested in reducing their ecological footprint and embracing a more harmonious way of life.

Workshops will cover a wide range of topics, including solar power installation, composting, rainwater harvesting and sustainable architecture.

Attendees can watch and learn

Weaving Eucalypts Project at the Wangaratta gallery

A COLLABORATIVE project by weaver Liz Williamson which explores local colour, cultural connections, and shared weaving traditions is being held in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

In 2020, Williamson began inviting colleagues in Australia and India to colour fabric with eucalyptus leaves collected locally and once received, wove the fabric into panels referencing the traditions of woven rag rugs.

Since 2021, the project has expanded to connect with more

from blacksmiths, DIY solar installers, homesteaders, butchers, survivalists and more.

Renowned speakers from the sustainability movement will also share their insights and experiences, offering practical tips for incorporating eco-friendly practices into everyday life.

In addition to educational offerings, the festival will feature live music performances, local artisan

colleagues in Australia and India as well as other countries touched by the Indian Ocean, and the Weaving Eucalypts Project now features 100 panels woven by Williamson with fabric dyed by 60 collaborators with over 50 eucalypts species identified and sourced from over 50 locations.

See them on display in Gallery 2 until April 14.

Wangaratta community market

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

markets, and unique and delicious food vendors, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates the joys of sustainable living.

Tickets for the festival, from 9am to 5pm this Saturday and Sunday, are available for purchase online at www.offgridevent.com.au.

For more information and updates, follow the festival on social media (@offgridlivingfestival).

There is a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.

Stalls are available for $25 each (no bookings required) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

Quilts on display at My Little Patch

FOR the month of April, My Little Patch is showcasing an exhibition of quilts created by Rhonda Lewis. Come along and be inspired by the display, during opening hours at the shop located at the rear of 49 Reid Street in Wangaratta.

Success all round in wake of Clarissa and Pip

The cast and crew of Wangaratta Players Inc production

Clarissa and Pip are basking in the afterglow of their hit show, all eight performances selling out before opening weekend was over.

It’s a triumph for debut director Jo Pane who stepped up to take the reins of a play which had never been performed before, written by acclaimed local author and playwright, Margaret Hickey.

Jo said its popularity was a credit to Margaret Hickey as writer, Wangaratta Players reputation, and the fact it was a world premiere for the rural city, but it appears the hard work of the team behind the production also paid dividends.

“Opening night was surreal, yet amazing,” said Jo.

“Months of hard work culminated in that one night and knowing that Margaret Hickey was in the audience - and this show had never been on stage before - meant cast, crew and the audience were abuzz with excitement.

“Most of the performances (which followed) went seamlessly, but as the run went on, cast and crew relaxed, which I feel made their performances even more authentic and real.

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

“The show just got better and better.”

Jo said as a directorial debut she loved the experience and is extremely proud of the result, and based on the positive feedback received from the cast, she will definitely be doing it again.

“I am relieved, but proud,” she said.

“I will miss the cast and crew and the wonderful family we created, and I will have cherished memories for life.”

A teacher at Cathedral College Wangaratta, playwright Margaret Hickey it was a pleasure to see her story brought to life by actors she had a connection with, and she commended their performances.

She said she never has any particular expectation of how her plays should be directed – letting go once she’s signed off - but in Jo’s hands, it became alive once more.

“I was so happy with it - I thought the cast was amazing and Jo did a great job,” she said.

“It was great to see so many familiar faces in the cast, from my colleague Kirsty Woods to my former workmate Neil Foster – and three students from my

school - it just made it more enjoyable.

“When I wrote Clarissa and Pip, I thought it would be a very difficult play to direct and to act in, but Jo managed it brilliantly.

“Her use of the stage, the production areas, the realisation of character and of course – that watershed moment toward the end - it was all so satisfying.”

Wangaratta Players Inc’s new president

Shane Douthie said the Players were stunned by the audience reaction to Clarissa and Pip, adding it was Jo’s idea to stretch from three to four performances a week.

He said even with those extra shows, it was one of the quickest selling productions he can remember.

“Every performance was a sell-out which is testament to Margaret’s popularity as a writer and the audience’s high satisfaction rating with

$10m build taking shape at St John’s

Friday, April 4, 2014

By SIMONE KERWIN

THE $10 million first stage of St John’s Village’s redevelopment is moving ahead of schedule.

Designed to fit the ‘ageing in place’ philosophy, which allows residents to move through the levels of aged care without being moved to different locations, the entire redevelopment is valued at $40 million.

Chief executive officer

Peter Hill said work on the current stage was moving so steadily that it was expected residents would move into the 31 rooms being constructed on the Williams Road site as early as July.

“That is six weeks earlier than expected,” Mr Hill said.

Along with the 31 rooms, which include an additional

our past productions,” he said.

“Margaret’s decision to ask the Players to present this work as a premiere was not only flattering but also gave everyone a real lift in confidence.

“Everyone involved worked extremely hard to make sure it was the best production we could

possibly do, and the audiences really lapped it up.”

Shane said Margaret’s ability to create real characters with human traits and foibles resonate with audiences and work beautifully on the stage, and he’s hopeful there is another masterpiece in the works.

He said the show also

introduced a new director in Jo along with several new and returning performers, and it allowed some new faces to take on more responsibility in backstage and technical roles, which is a high priority for the company.

“Like any community or sporting group we need to keep bringing in new blood to regenerate the company,” he said.

“We have already started rehearsing our next production, The Long Road, with a new director for us coming from Beechworth, and more new faces on and off stage, which can only add to our depth and variety in the future.

“It was clear by all the new faces we saw in the audiences during Clarissa and Pip, that by having new people involved in a new play we attract many first-timers to The Stage Door, and once they’ve experienced it, they usually come back again and again.”

change, and these guys and our architect are really flexible with how they approach any suggested changes,” he said.

10 years ago

10 years ago

15 rooms, the first stage of the project also involves construction of a new laundry and kitchen. Mr Hill said residents were eagerly awaiting their move into the new area, which features wetlands views from some aspects.

And he said builders Hansen Yuncken had made the project much easier through their flexible approach.

“As you get new staff and new ideas, plans can

Mr Hill said it was hoped the next stage of the project, worth $2.2 million and involving the construction of 14 beds, could flow on from the completion of the current stage.

“We are currently working on the finance to enable that to happen, and we are feeling very positive about it,” he said.

Mr Hill said the 63 people who attended Wednesday’s Business After Hours session at St John’s were impressed with the scope of the project, and surprised by the size of the village.

“People were really interested, and wanted to see what’s happening,” he said.

TEAM EFFORT: Director Jo Pane (front, far left) joined the cast of Clarissa and Pip for a photo on opening night. Pictured from left, back row: Hannah Walton, Shane Douthie, Owen Guy, Brenda Spilva, Rick Harnwell, Neil Foster, Jeff Faithfull. Front row from left: Jo, Brianna Robison, Aleeta Carmody, Laura Gundrill, Andrew Wighton, Jeremy Kaup, Kirsty Woods and assistant director Shelley Bovenkamp. The production enjoyed a sell-out run. PHOTO: Elevated Media

OPENING CELEBRATION: Playwright Margaret Hickey congratulated director Jo Pane following the premiere of Wangaratta Players Inc’s Clarissa and Pip at The Stage Door in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Elevated Media

MOVING AHEAD: Peter Hill, St John’s Village chief executive officer, surveys the progress of stage one of the facility’s redevelopment. PHOTO: Luke Plummer

Luxury living in Baltimore Estate

THIS exceptional 2019 Lekeal custom built home in the Baltimore Estate offers a haven of modern luxury; from its striking façade to its meticulously designed interior and high-end finishes.

Step inside and instantly be impressed with the natural light, with raked ceilings to the living and dining space creating an inviting atmosphere all year round.

The heart of the home is an expansive open plan living, dining and kitchen including separate powder room and walk-in central storage room.

The fully equipped kitchen has a

900mm electric oven, induction cooktop with a separate a gas burner, Quantum quartz bench tops, soft-close drawers, and a complete butler’s pantry.

It’s enhanced with a shadow line finish on the cabinetry of the kitchen bench.

Unwind in the stunning master suite comprising a large bedroom surrounded by natural light, expansive walk-in robe, walk-in shower, indulgent bathtub, floor-to-ceiling tiling, and a captivating outlook to the central fernery element with a glazed roof over the bathtub.

The family bathroom is positioned amongst the further three bed-

rooms all complete with BIR.

Indulge in all year-round comfort with ducted climate control and enjoy the central gas log fire for added ambience during the winter months.

Entertain under the expansive alfresco area complete with ceiling fan and detailed timber ceiling.

There is also a secure double garage with an additional large walk-in storeroom, 10kw solar system, 3-phase power, commercial grade double glazed windows throughout and front and rear irrigation system.

The home is fully landscaped with well-established garden.

Wangaratta branch

76 Reid Street

Open weekdays

9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)

1300 004 863 humebank.com.au

Nash & Co.

This is a rare opportunity where every day feels like a holiday retreat. Contact Garry Nash & Co to arrange your private inspection.

This rare offering is a 60s architectural design that boasts a unique blend of mid-century style, accompanied by quality local craftsmanship. An idyllic lifestyle awaits with river frontage and a landscaped one-acre complete with two meg water rights to maintain your home all year round.

Inside the home is a beautifully presented

The functional

and dining area, complete with gas cooking facilities and a dishwasher, provide both convenience and functionality for everyday living and entertaining.

Outside, expansive shedding offers ample storage space, complementing the secure yard.

Ample parking is available alongside a substantial 9m x 3.5m garage

featuring a concrete floor and power supply.

This property presents an ideal opportunity for those seeking a well-established home that combines comfort and practicality.

Don’t miss the chance to make this impeccably maintained property your own – contact Garry Nash & Co today for more information or to arrange a private inspection.

interior. The double lounge space offers split system, ceiling fans and Coonara gas log heater. The updated kitchen is a perfect fit, boasting stone benchtops, electric oven, gas cooktop, dishwasher, and ample storage space. Three fantastic bedrooms, the master bedroom with stunning views of the Broken River, builtin robes, a ceiling fan, and split system. An ensuite off the master bedroom hosts a shower, single vanity and toilet. The additional bedrooms are complete with built-in robes and ceiling fans. The central bathroom is well-maintained and effective featuring a bath, shower and vanity.

Exterior to the home is one of a kind and definitely something special for the lucky buyer to enjoy. A spacious outdoor entertainment area that overlooks the river/lake and the carefully landscaped gardens that provide a unique oasis. The property also offers access to a workshed/storage area fit with electricity. The well-established fruit trees and vegetable garden add a touch of

Oxley Lot 2 Shadforth Street

1012m2

Build your dream home in Oxley Township

For Sale $400,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26645822

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Oxley 1/79 Ely Street

1012m2

Build your dream home in Oxley Township For Sale $400,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25539718

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Glenrowan 220 Old Hume Highway 5.6Ac

Premium Lifestyle Opportunity For Sale $450,000-$495,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26723008

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Whitfield 4882 Wangaratta-Whitfield Rd

1000m22 11

Opportunity in Whitfield Township

For Sale $595,000

wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26324070

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Greta South 00 Wangaratta-Kilfeera Rd

91 Acres

“Flynn’s” Hayshed, Dams. Sealed Access

For Sale $840,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L24899880

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Harcourts Wangaratta

scenery beyond.

Comfort is assured with two wood fires and three split systems, providing efficient heating and cooling options no matter the season.

Outdoors you can enjoy entertaining guests, the rejuvenating swim spa or unwind in the peaceful shade of the wisteria vine.

The property boasts magnificent, manicured gardens that include a manageable orchard, bountiful citrus trees and productive veggie patches.

Another feature of this property is the

spacious cellar - a versatile space that could be used as a cosy wine cellar or repurposed into and additional storage room.

A two-car garage, a separate workshop and solar panels, all add to the liveability of this beautiful property.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Glenrowan.

Contact Garry Nash & Co today to schedule your private inspection.

More than a figure of speed from Audi

■ SPECIAL EDITION: Buyers will have to be quick to join the anniversary celebrations.

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

ONE of the most popular pastimes in the world, Monopoly, and the Audi RS Q3 sports utility vehicle have much in common.

The board game deals with high finance and real estate, the SUV high performance motoring; both rely heavily on figures.

The latter has just added a lot more of the latter to the list with its RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years, as the suffix suggests with reference to its decade of success.

Audi is making only 555 specials in celebration, with a ‘healthy number’ slated for Down Under.

“This edition pays great tribute to the best of SUV performance in the RS Q3 Sportback,” says Audi Australia director Jeff Manning, who has no doubts about the sales success of the anniversary edition in this country.

“Australia as a market is so performance focused and I have no doubt that owners will enjoy exclusive RS touches in this special model.”

The RS Q3 Sportback 10 Years is based on the storied RS Q3 with a raft of unique features inside and out, not least the award winning 2.5 TFSI turbocharged five-cylinder motor, producing an unrivalled bass note.

In keeping with this is an exclusive collection of accoutrements such as black 21-inch alloy wheels, matching Audi

badging and brake callipers, plus race-inspired front bucket seats with contrasting copper honeycomb stitching.

The RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years comes with Audi’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, plus 12-year manufacturer warranty for bodywork against corrosion.

Owners also receive membership during the warranty period to the Audi Experience with access to exclusive events, Ambassador experiences and premium partner offers.

STYLING

Stand-out exclusive colours are Dew Silver matt or metallic Chronos Grey, the latter providing a strong base for darkened matrix LED headlamps, with dynamic turn indicators and matching wing mirror housings.

A glossy black roof frame, window rims, and door trim point the way to copycat front spoiler blades and diffuser insert. The Audi four rings cling to the single frame radiator grille and rear together with the model lettering.

INTERIOR

Race-style front bucket seats have a lot going for them – big bolsters for snug lateral support (handy on dramatic direction changes) and covered in leather and Dinamica, black with contrasting copper coloured honeycomb stitching and backrest in matt carbon.

Here’s the bad news: while both seats are heated, they

are reduced to manual adjustment; no power here.

This is not what we have become used to in a $100K car.

Never mind, the RS sport steering wheel makes up for the absence, being clothed in sexy suede-style Alcantara with copper stitching, which is repeated in the gear lever gaiter.

Ambient LED lighting adds the finishing touches to the luxe surroundings.

The RS Q3 Edition Ten Years leaves its unique signature with illuminated door sill trims and a red 3-D diamond projected onto the ground when the door is opened.

Saying the car is a five-seater is stretching things; the rear is short on width.

The boot will take 530 litres of cargo with the 60:40 rear seat backs up, expanding to 1400 litres with them folded.

An electric tailgate includes gesture control.

The RS Q3 Edition Ten Years leaves its unique signature with illuminated door sill trims and a red 3-D diamond projected onto the ground when the door is opened.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

The award winning TFSI five-cylinder engine pumps out 294 kW of power, 17 per cent more than the previous RS Q3 motor.

Maximum torque of 480 Nm, on tap between 1950 and 5850 rpm runs the quattro permanent allwheel drive via a seven-

speed S tronic dual clutch transmission.

SAFETY

ANCAP safety is not rated, as is the case with many sports specials. However, there is no skimping on active safety, with adaptive cruise assist with Stop&Go function, Audi presense front with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.

The 360-degree cameras, plus rear and front parking alarms instil confidence when faced with crowded car parks.

DRIVING

And so to the Audi RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years figures.

The Car can hit 100 km/h from standstill in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 250 km/h. Audi claims fuel consumption of 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle.

The test car recorded just over 10 litres per 100 kilometres in city stop/start motoring and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on a mainly motorway run.

That apart, it’s the accompanying exhaust note that really takes the cake.

The odd number of cylinders with their unique firing order of 1-2-4-5-3 deliver a deep sonorous sound via twin barrels with exhaust flap control and gloss black oval tailpipe trims.

The RS sport suspension with adaptive dampers has the car on best behaviour around city streets but still gets a grip

when things are set loose on fast bends or sharp corners.

Bits to play with include driving modes, powertrain monitoring and performance tracking.

Positive steering is backed up by Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, while braking has the heft to pull up the vehicle with the assurance the driver demands of a high-performance sports car.

SUMMARY

The anniversary RS Q3 is available in Sportback only, the SUV not given a guernsey, which is how it should be. Buyers will have to be quick to join the celebrations.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 9/10

Safety: 7/10

Thirst:5/10

Easter fun Easter fun at Baileys of at of Glenrowan

By JORDAN DUURSMA

PEOPLE from far and wide gathered at Baileys of Glenrowan on Saturday and Sunday to celebrate the Easter festival.

The crowd enjoyed wine tastings, woodfired pizza, Clydesdale carriage rides and live music from local Benalla band, Dallas Alice.

Venue manger, Shelly Hutchins, said it was a really successful weekend for the winery with perfect weather, live music and a great turn out.

“We had Clydesdale carriage rides, which took lots of families, young

and old around the historic grounds and native garden,” Shelly said.

“We had lots of our regular visitors, locals from around Benalla and Shepperton areas, as well as some tourists who hadn’t been to the winery before.”

The festival was free entry, with activities for the whole family to enjoy.

“We had a colouring competition for the kids, with a hamper prize,” Shelly said.

“The older punters enjoyed our organic wines, everything’s estate grown and fiano was a crowd favourite over the weekend.”

Glenrowan Easter Monday market

By JORDAN DUURSMA

GLENROWAN-Warby Range

Lions Club Easter Market was held on Monday, April 1 in Siege Street, Glenrowan.

All kinds of goods were on offer from candles to clothing, baskets to bric-a-brac, local produce and much more.

There were more than 22 stalls for locals and tourists to explore on the public holiday.

Stallholder from Corowa, Lana Bolger said the market was something for the tourists to stop past on their way home.

Diane Morrison from Morrisons of Glenrowan said it had been busy at the local wineries over the long weekend.

“There are quite a few tourists in the region and that is a good thing for the area,” she said.

Myrtleford

OFFERING PRODUCE: Lana Bolger from Corowa was among the stallholders.

MORRISONS OF GLENROWAN: Diane Morrisons from local winery, Morrisons of Glenrowan.

GLENROWAN-WARBY RANGE LIONS CLUB SAUSAGE SIZZLE: Manning the barbecue were (from left) Russel Kelly, Craig Gibbs, John Cazaly, Robyn Coles and Warren Coles.

EASTER PICNIC: Monique Fraser, Tahlia Miller and Aurora Miller enjoyed a picnic at Baileys of Glenrowan.

VISITING FROM SHEPPARTON: Mick Murray, Scott Keating, Sarah Murray, Robyn Murray and Cherie Keating enjoyed Baileys of Glenrowan.

LOCAL BAND SET THE SCENE: Gabe Chowanetz, Clare Whitehead and Lindsay Thomson entertained vistiors.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: Enjoying Baileys of Glenrowan over Easter were (from left) Leane Fraser, Tracey Chaplin, Kath Dowling, Shane Fraser, Cooper Densley and Ariah Densley. PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

Planning and Environment Act 1987 WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME

Notice of the preparation of an amendment to a planning scheme and notice of an application for a planning permit given under section 96C of the Planning and Environment Act 1987

Amendment C86wang

Planning permit application PlnApp 24/005

Overview

This combined Sec 96A planning scheme amendment and planning permit application seeks to facilitate a multi lot staged residential subdivision of 233 lots.

This is achieved by the proposed rezoning of Lot 2 PS744661D Wangaratta-Whitfield Road, Wangaratta from Low Density Residential Zone - Schedule 1 to General Residential Zone - Schedule 1 and the partial rezoning of Targoora Park (330 Wangaratta-Whitfield Road) from Public Park Recreation Zone to Public Use Zone 1 to accommodate the construction of an integrated waste water treatment plant. For further details, refer to the explanatory report about the amendment.

Details of the amendment

The Rural City of Wangaratta planning authority has prepared Amendment C86 to the Wangaratta Planning Scheme.

The land affected by the amendment is Lot 2 PS744661D Wangaratta-Whitfield Road and Targoora Park (330 Wangaratta-Whitfield Road), Wangaratta as outlined on the above map. The land affected by the application is Lot 2 PS744661D Wangaratta-Whitfield Road, Wangaratta

The amendment proposes to rezone Lot 2 PS744661D from Low Density Residential – Schedule 1 to the General Residential Zone – Schedule 1 and rezone part of Targoora Park (330 Wangaratta-Whitfield Road, Wangaratta) from Public Park and Recreation Zone to Public Use Zone 1.

The application is for a permit to allow the development of a multi lot staged residential subdivision (233 lots including 3 super lots), including the removal of native vegetation, the alteration of an access to a road in a Transport Zone 2 (Wangaratta-Whitfield Road) and the removal and variation of an easement (E1).

The applicant for the permit is Bislake Pty Ltd.

You may inspect the amendment, the explanatory report about the amendment, the application, and any documents that support the amendment and the application, including the proposed permit, free of charge, at:

• the Rural City of Wangaratta website at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Development/Strategic-planning/PlanningScheme-Amendments

• during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, Rural City of Wangaratta, 62-68 Ovens Street, Wangaratta, VIC, 3676.

• at the Department of Transport and Planning website https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/planning-schemes/ amendments/amendments-on-exhibition or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment and the application. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment and/or application are supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required for planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.

The closing date for submissions is 14 May 2024.

A submission must be sent via email: strategicplanning@wangaratta.vic.gov.au, or:

mail: Strategic Planning Department - Rural City of Wangaratta 62-68 Ovens Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677

The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or its website for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses. Stephen Swart Director Sustainability & Culture

Plans and supporting documentation associated with the Development Plan are available for viewing on Council’s website.

Interested and affected parties are invited to make comment for Council to consider during the assessment. Submissions must be made in writing, email: planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or post: PO Box 238 Wangaratta Vic 3676.

Submissions for comment on the Development Plan close 12th April 2024. When making a submission please include reference to ‘South Growth Area Precinct 6 Development Plan’. For any queries, please contact the Planning Department on 03 5722 0888 or via planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

Wangaratta Art GallerySchool Holiday Workshops

Healing Paper Plant Wreath

Thursday 11 April | 10am - 12pm & Friday 12 April 10am - 12pm

Make your own individual paper leaf wreath incorporating the leaves of healing and medicinal plants, such as calendula, elderberry, mint, and nettle. Participants will develop fine motor skills by cutting and folding paper to create a healing-plant paper wreath. The workshops are suitable for all ages and experience levels. For more information and to book either workshop visit www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au

Positions vacant

For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers

To Visit Visited

KITCHENWARE, clothes, oil collectables. Saturday, April 6, 7am12noon, 4 Laird Street, Wangaratta.

To Visit Visited

RUMMAGE sale; ex vintage shop stock, collectables, books, homewares, kids toys, furniture and sports stuff, cash or card, Sunday April 7, 9am1pm (no early callers), near the corner of Rowan and Swan Street, Wangaratta.

To Visit Visited

TOOLS, fishing rods, gardening tools, kitchen things, something for everyone! 38 Esmond Street, Wangaratta, Saturday, April 6, 9am1pm, no early callers.

To Visit Visited

To Visit Visited

FARM goods, collectables, chooks

ducks, budgies.

11am-3pm, Sunday 10am-3pm, 235 Racecourse Road, Chiltern. FURNITURE, plants, queen size bed and mattress in good condition, bric-a-brac and lots more. Saturday, April 6, 9am start, 469 Whorouly Road, Whorouly, ph 5727 1429.

To Visit Visited

CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote, phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers behavioural solutions. Ph 0418 314 610.

KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.

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

PLASTERER, no job too small. Ph 0424 911 161.

WHEELER

Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs - yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

POULTRY Auction (live coll), Sunday, April 21 at Wangaratta Showgrounds, commencing at 11am, bookings essential, cash or card payments accepted. Ph 0416 151 696, Metrys Auctions.

1 black male an d 2 ginger female Cavoodle puppies for sale, in Rutherglen, microchipped/ vet check and 1st vax, ready for n ew homes, Breede r Source no MB208182, M icrochip numbers: 900164002282604, 900164002282591, 900164002262606. Phone Greg 0400 831 590.

Benalla Rose City Band currently seeking applications for the position of Musical Director

The successful incumbent will work with the Band’s committee and other relevant external committees to develop and implement an artistic plan that will see the ensemble continue to develop and contribute to community events in Benalla Rural City. Please contact the President on 0409 967 303 to receive a copy of the Position Description. Applications close April 8, 2024.

HEALTH PROMOTION OFFICER

Permanent Part Time – 0.40 EFT

For further information please contact Elizabeth Ibrom, Acting Director Clinical Services - (03) 5728 0316

Closing Dates: 19/04/2024

HUMAN

DIABETES EDUCATOR

Permanent

St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc

Have you ever thought about working in aged care but not sure?

Come in for an informal meet and greet and tour of our facility.

We would love to see you and show you what makes

St Catherine’s a great place to work!

This will provide an opportunity for us to answer your questions and tell you about the benefits St Catherine’s offers. You may be very surprised. Ring Bec on 03 5721 2243 to organise a time to suit you.

Registered Nurses - Grade 5

$56.8316 per hour base rate

+ shift allowances + applicable penalty rates

Permanent Part Time Night Shift positions

Permeant Part Time Weekend Shifts

Attractive sign on bonus may be applicable!

St Catherine’s is a not for profit, private 72 bed aged care facility.

Permanent part time positions available on set roster. Applicants must be committed to working in a caring team oriented environment.

Terms and conditions are in accordance with St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc. (trading as St Catherine’s Hostel) ANMF and HSU Enterprise Agreement 2021.

Essential Criteria:

it...

Desirable:

Position Descriptions are available from Reception Mon – Fri 9am to 5pm

MOTOR VEHICLES

Tess and John Barnard, Greg Keane and Christine Hubbard happily announce the marriage of

Matthew Davis and Samantha Keane

at Remel 185, 3pm, April 5, 2024. Love is just a word until someone comes along and gives it meaning.

DUNNE, Brian.

BELL

Laura and Brett welcome the new arrival of IYLA BODHI on March 26, 2024. Little sister of Josh, Jarrod and Jackson.

On behalf of the volunteers and staff of Springhurst Fire Brigade, we would like to offer our sincere condolences to his wife Elizabeth, daughter Catherine, son Mark and their families on the passing of Brian. Brian was a member of the Springhurst Fire Brigade and held the positions of both Lieutenant and Firefighter totalling more than 68 years of dedicated service.

ELLIS, Max.

ARNOLD (nee Farrell), Sharon.

It is with sadness we announce the death of Sharon on Wednesday, April 3. Aged 66 years. Gone to soon. May you rest in peace.

He was not only a founding member of Wangaratta Taxis, paving the way for those of us who follow in his footsteps, he was also a true gentleman, a valued and respected friend and work colleague to everyone at Wangaratta Taxis. He will be sadly missed by us all. Deepest sympathy to Bernadette, Brian, Amanda and family. ~ From his family at Taxis Wangaratta.

FERGUSON, Christopher Leigh “Leigh”. Passed away at home on Friday, March 29, 2024. Father of James. Free to roam with my beautiful Ovens River. “Ferg”

ELECTRIC fence unit, still

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Phone: (03) 5723 0101

BRADBURY, Edgar Ronald “Ed”.

The President and members of the Probus Club of Wangaratta Inc

mourn the loss of our esteemed former President and Secretary. With our deepest sympathy to Ed’s children.

FERGUSON, Leigh. Passed away suddenly March 29, 2024. Lifelong friend of Russell and Sharon De-La Rue and family. Will miss all our daily visits that we had over so many years. Sadly missed by Bear. Rest in peace Ferg. Go Pies. If

Privately cremated as per Leigh’s wishes. Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

COLE, Roy Desmond. 19/3/1929 – 29/3/2024

Devoted husband of Cath for 65 years. Loved father and father-in-law of Denise and Ron (dec) Graham, and Gayle and Dean Scatchard. Much loved Pa to Kate and Jeff, James (dec), Megan and Zac, Holly and Melanie. Loved Great Pa to Pippa. “A long life…well lived” Will be sadly missed.

FERGUSON, Christopher Leigh. 5/8/1949 – 29/3/2024 Of Everton. Aged 74 years. Loved son of Joy and Dowse (both dec), brother of Virgina and Murray (both dec), adoptive father of James. Gone suddenly. Loved and missed always by Tony, Joan and family. RIP old mate.

FERGUSON, Leigh.

Words are few, thoughts are deep, memories of you are ours to keep.

Until we meet again, mate.

~ Garry, Julie and Tegan Allen.

FERGUSON, Leigh. Great neighbour and friend of Val and Julie. Will be sadly missed.

~ Val Canning and family.

GRANT, Richard “Dick”.

It is with great sadness that the Grant family announce the passing of Dick. Adored big brother of Jean, Gary, Charlene and Sharen. Loved son of Mavis and Charlie (both dec). Reunited with siblings Olivette, Joe, Jim and Billy.

Forever loved and remembered. Rest in peace.

MATHEWS, Roger Graham.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Graham Mathews of Merimbula and formerly Wangaratta, who died suddenly on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Canberra Hospital. Aged 83 years.

Much loved husband of Jill, father of Angela, Tara and Grant and grandfather of Molly, Sonya, Matthew, Will and Jenna, Roger was a much loved member of the Wangaratta and Merimbula communities.

Jill, along with the family, would like to invite all those who knew him to celebrate his life at Merimbula Wharf Restaurant on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at 2pm.

To help with our arrangements please let us know if you are able to join us by contacting Jill at rogerjillmathews@gmail.com

REEVES (nee Brown), Margaret Mary “Meg”.

19/12/1943 – 25/1/2024

Beloved wife of Frank. Loved sister of Ian, Maureen, Will and their families. Sadly missed by her step children Ross, Maree and Nikki and their partners. Adored by her eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Missed by all of her nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Meg will be sadly missed by her cycling and nursing friends.

REEVES, Margaret “Meg”. 19/12/1943 – 25/3/2024

Loved sister-in-law of Rodney and Leslie, Stephen and Renee, Jenny and Neville, Sue and Brian, Peter and Rosemary, Elva and Steve. Adored Aunt of 22 and Great-Aunt of 30.

Will be sadly missed.

SOLTAU (nee Gregory), Margaret “Peg”. 30/5/1934 – 1/4/2024

Passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s Hostel. Sister of Jim Gregory (dec), Alf Gregory, and Dorothy Langford (dec) and Aunt to their families.

A gathering to celebrate Peg’s life will be held in the Memories Room at Mason Park, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 10.30am.

Peg’s gathering can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming

No flowers please. A donation in memory of Peg to the RSPCA would be appreciated. Donations can be made online at www.rspcavic.org

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

SOLTAU, Margaret “Peg”. A life well lived. Sleeping peacefully. ~ Glen, Nick and Gracie.

COLE

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Roy Desmond Cole will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 commencing at 10.30am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

ELLIOTT

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service to celebrate the life of Wayne Kevin Elliott (Froggy), commencing at 1pm on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at the Valla Beach Tavern, 17 Valla Beach Road, Valla Beach, NSW.

REEVES

A funeral to honour the life of Meg Reeves will be held at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Cnr Ovens and Docker Street Wangaratta, commencing at 11am on Thursday, April 11, 2024 followed by interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

SIHARAJ, Oday.

Dad, happy 83rd birthday. You’re always in our hearts and we miss you.

~ Love your daughter Kay and son Souwee, and 12 grandchildren and 4 greatgrandchildren.

CONROY, John Denis. In loving memory of John.

Passed away April 4, 1978.

Dearly loved husband of Mary (dec).

ROBERTS, William Charles “Billy”. 19/9/1954 – 30/3/2024

Loved son of Kathleen and Henry (both dec). Adored brother of Graeme, David, Janet, Richard, Pauline, Alicia and Catherine.

Loving Uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

Forever in our hearts, Billy Boy.

WHITE, David George.

Passed away peacefully at the family farm in Edi, on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the age of 83 years.

Beloved husband of Rosemary (dec) for 60 years, reunited again. Adored father of Gary, Trevor, Rodney, Cheryl, Mark, Basil (dec), Sheree and Julie.

Cherished Grandad / Poppy Moo to 22 grandchildren. Finally at peace.

WHITE, David.

You’ve been such a hard worker, a man who was patient and calm. A man who lived for family, his community and his farm. But there will be no more early mornings, no machineries gentle hum, Your work on earth is done now Dad, and you can rest in peace with Mum.

~ Love always Gary, Judy, Shirraze and Talon.

ROBERTS

A graveside funeral service to honour the life of Bill will be held at the Eldorado Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Eldorado on Thursday, April 11, 2024 commencing at 1pm.

WHITE

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the service to celebrate the life of Mr David George White, to be held at Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall, 26 Bartley St, Moyhu on Friday, April 12, 2024 commencing at 1.30pm. Burial will follow the service at the Whitfield Hyem Cemetery, 8 Cemetery Lane, King Valley.

Donations made in David’s honour to The Edi Hall Committee would be appreciated.

David’s service will be available to view via live stream at https://masonpark.com.au /live-streaming/

Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

Loving father of Margaret, Michael, Ann, Alan and their families. Forever in our hearts. Honouring

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

The ultimate guide for tourists and locals

NOWOUT

SCOREBOARD

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

SATURDAY, March 30

Stableford

A Winner: Greg Van Riet 36.

R/Up: Glenn Ryan 36.

B Winner: Alex Jones 40.

R/Up: Neville Hogan 37.

C Winner: John McKenzie 37.

R/Up: Attila Kungl 36.

D Winner: Stan Goldsworthy 44.

R/Up: Brian Thomas 42.

Ball Winners: Paul Stacey (2) 41, Martin Hill, Tom Arnold, Ken Beitzel 36, Allen Bastin, Josh Ormand, Les Naidoo 35, Daniel Fogarty, Matt Walker, Robert Skase, Chris Palmer 34, Danny Potter, Bernie Grealy, Gary Butler 34.

Super 9

Shirt: Christine Boseley 22.

Aroma Deli: Stan Goldsworthy 22.

2 Balls: Brian Thomas 22.

NTP: 4th Alan Sands, 8th Alan Sand, 13th Matt Fischer, 17th Allen Bastin.

Sunday, March 31

Stableford

Winner: Joe Marjanovic 35.

Ball Winners: Eddie Luke (2) 33, Glenn O’Connell 33, Ian Cockle 33, Garth Fullerton 32.

NTP: 4th Ian Cockle, 13th Glenn Ryan.

Monday, April 1

Stableford

A Grade: Andrew Kelly 39.

B Grade: Wayne Hibberson 38.

C Grade: John Porter 41.

***Andrew Kelly Eagle on 16th***

Ball Winners: Brian Thomas (2) 40, Rick Harnwell 37, Pat Ernst 37, Gary Butler 37, Alex Gibbs 36, Glenn Ryan 36, Michael Monro 35.

NTP: 4th Glenn Ryan, 8th Ian Mills, 13th Glenn Ryan, 17th Alex Gibbs.

Wednesday, April 3

18 Hole Stableford

A Grade: Michael Cordier C/B from Greg Van Riet 39.

B Grade: Pat Grady 35.

C Grade: Brian Thomas 39.

Ball Winners: Greg Van Riet (2 Balls) 39, Brian Carr 37, Brian Wallace 37, Neville Hogan 34, Peter Challman 34, Kelvin Archer 34, Aaron Roberts 34, Steve Fisher 33, Ryan Harris 33.

NTP: 4th Alan Sands, 8th Michael Munro, 13th Hamish Lewis, 17th Alex Jones.

Wednesday, April 3

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Mark Drage 21.

Ball Winners: Simon Dean (2 Balls) 20, Tony Koch 18.

NTP: 13th Ray Gibbs, 17th Matthew Nunn.

WANGARATTA

GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending

March 31

March 26

Women’s Stableford

9 Hole Winner: Candice Jones 18

Points.

18 Hole Multiplier Round

Winner: Carolyn Sullivan and Jenny Kerr 69.

Runner Up: Sue McCall and Chris Cuthbert 64.

Ball Winners: Helen Tate & Jill Halbwidl, Karen Smith & Jan Hill.

Wednesday, March 27

Men’s Competition

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Graeme Ray 40 C/B Points.

Runner Up: Trevor Clark 40 Points.

Ball Winners: Bill Dodd, Rod Moyle, Greg Sullivan, Kurt Schubert, Steve Bismire, Bobby Hutchieson.

NTP: 4th Kurt Schubert, 7th Dean Campagna, 11th Rod Moyle, 13th Craig Donoghue.

HOLE IN ONE 11TH: ROD MOYLE.

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Bill Griffiths 22 Points.

Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 20 C/B Points.

Ball Winners: Peter King, Joe Antic.

March 28

Women’s Stableford: 18 Hole Winner: Sue Miller 38 Points.

18 Hole Runner Up: Sue McCall 37 Points.

NTP: 7th Glenda Dodson, 9th Sue McCall.

9 Hole Winner: Rosemary Webb 14 Points.

9 Hole Runner Up; Lorraine Adams 13 Points.

NTP: 11th Rosemary Webb.

Saturday, March 30

Men’s Competition Stableford

A Grade Winner: Jeremy Winter 39 Points.

A Grade Runner Up: Jeff Farrell.

B Grade Winner: Mark Comensoli.

B Grade Runner Up: Phillip Winnell.

Ball Winners: Colin Walker, Trevor Trimble, Joe Antic, Jason Dean, Geoff Webster, Neil McKinnon, Matt Nicolosi, Gary Stone, Laurie Miller, Maurie Braden.

NTP: 4th Gary Stone, 7th Rob Holloway, 9th Ash Clayton, 11th David Lawson, 13th Chris Oates, 16th Trevor Trimble.

McDonalds Birdie: Ethan Bell, Jeremy Winter.

Secret 6: Trevor Clark.

Raffle Winner: David Lawson.

Women’s Stableford Winner: Glenda Dodson 34 C/B Points.

Runner Up: Sue McCall 34 Points.

Ball Winners: Jan Hill, Deb Patterson.

NTP: 11th Maggie Ray, 13th Maggie Ray.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

TARRAWINGEE Golf Club results Saturday, March 30

Being Easter Saturday and numbers down, the members played a novelty event called Mulligans. The winner on the day was Mark Nolan 73/12/61, runner up was Lindsay Steer nett 68.

Nearest the pin on the 8th was Mark Nolan.

Monthly Awards

Captains Award: Peter Scoullar, Secretaries Award: Bill Wright, Birdies: K. Miller, Gobblers: A. Simmons.

Golf to be played on Saturday, April 6 will be a stroke event for the Monthly Medal.

There will also be an event for the ladies on the day.

Hit off times will be 11:30am for a 12:00 noon start.

Members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 and the contact number is 0428122590 or by contacting a member of the club.

Tarra Ladies

Tarra ladies golf on Tuesday, April 2.

Tarrawingee Ladies played their April Monthly Medal and the first of their Championship rounds on Tuesday, April 2.

Di McLaughlin won the Monthly Medal and was also the winner of the stroke event.

As well she had the NTP on the second.

Next week will be a stroke event starting at 9.00am for 9.30am start.

WARBY WALKERS

WARBY Range Bushwalkers News for April 5

Monday, April 1

South Walk and Dickson Falls, Mount Buffalo National Park

What a great bush walking day on Mt Buffalo with 16 walkers prepared for the hike incorporating Dickson’s Falls followed by The South Walk.

The sun was shining and from on top of the plateau - no smoke haze, which was about in the preceding week, was evident.

Our starting point was Cresta Valley carpark which allowed for the formalities of handouts of maps and introductions.

Today we welcomed two new walkers to the club, not to walking, they’ve been doing that for years.

The path to Dickson’s Falls is clearly defined and passes the turn off towards The Back Wall.

Small streams were still flowing which was promising for water at the falls.

The occasional colourful and lone wildflower could be seen, the last of a long summer.

Our maps had a point of interest marked, THE VALLEY OF THE GODS.

It was capitalised for dramatic effect on the map too.

However, it went unnoticed by all of us.

Once we reached the lookout for Dickson’s Falls, a view over the south

face of the park was before us.

An information board noted various Australian peaks in the distance.

The falls, and I use the term loosely, admittedly, were flowing.

After morning tea in this pleasant spot, measured by the time it took Adrian to consume his apple and with one noticeably happy Swede, we retraced our steps back to Cresta Valley.

My GPS measured this as being 3.5km, so a little shorter than the expected 4km return.

A quick break and the group were soon ready for the South Walk.

The early stages of this walk had a little navigation through some more densely crammed bush.

It wasn’t long before the area opened with numerous conglomerations of granite boulders and Snow Gums.

With names like The Tombstones, The South Bluff and Wilfred’s Hill, you wonder how they come up with such names for landmarks.

The remainder of the trail towards our destination, the South Buffalo Viewpoint is best described as undulating.

From when we began at the car park, our elevation was around 1480m.

After walking for about 3.7km we reached the viewpoint at an elevation of about 1620m.

This section of the park has spectacular views in all directions.

After a leisurely lunch break and customary group photo shot, we again retraced our steps.

By this stage the group had spread out significantly, with everyone walking at their own comfortable pace.

Once back at the cars we made use of one of the tables for Pat’s afternoon tea.

A spread which is welcomed at the end of each walk and is renowned the world over.

The newie Jan was suitably impressed with the hike, the company she kept and afternoon tea, that she joined as a full member upon completion of the walk.

Thanks to everyone for participating.

The day’s hike of 11.73km was completed in five hours and was a great day of walking in this remarkable National Park.

Apparently, there are over 90km of

walking tracks on Mount Buffalo. I think we should make a weekend of it in the future and see how we go.

Coming Events

Saturday, April 6 to Saturday, April 13

Week away – Manna Park, Merimbula. Fully booked.

Sunday, April 28

Salisbury Walk, Friends Track, Kwat Kwat Lookout, Warby Ovens NP (Jeanette 0417 546 974).

A choice of two loop walks both starting at Wenham’s Camp.

An easy walk of about 5k on the Friends Track, with a stop at Kwat Kwat Lookout and Mount Warby, or a longer easy walk of about 10k that takes in the Alpine Views Track and Salisbury Walk before reaching Mount Warby.

Both walks are on bush tracks in the Warby Ovens National Park.

Excellent views over the Ovens Valley to the Victorian Alps from Kwat Kwat Lookout, and from Mount Warby.

WANG CROQUET CLUB

RESULTS for Monday, April 1 are as follows:

Janet Kelly and Maureen O’Keefe d Gabbi Heywood and Cheryle Beckley 7/2, Elise Downes and Gavan Kelly d Joan Dyson and Christine Ireland 7/6.

Play is on tomorrow (Saturday) at 9.00am and then on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1.00pm.

A small number of members enjoyed some games in the pleasant conditions on Wednesday morning and 11 attended our final Twilight session until Daylight Saving starts again.

Wangaratta has entered a team in the NEDCA Pennant competition commencing next Wednesday against Beechworth at Beechworth. Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

BANKING ON SUPPORT: Wangaratta Squash and Racquetball Club welcomed a generous donation of $700 in funding from the Bendigo Bank, via Connected Community Wangaratta. This funding was used to subsidise the purchase of the shirts shown in the above photo. Pictured (from left to right) are Rod Dunbar (club president), Dave Fuller (Connected Community representative) and club members Andrew Reid, Tim Meisinger and Matt Hobbs.

Kurt Hickling made his way down to the O&K netball between Greta and Moyhu and O&M derby on Good Friday. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.

AMANDA UMANSKI KELSIE WILSON

WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer

DANIEL SHARROCK (MAGPIES) AND LOCKEY McCARTNEY

BRIDGETTE LEWIS

CHAYE CRIMMINS

GRACIE REID

TOM BOYD AND LIAM McVEIGH

HARRISON GRANT

BRAD WHINRAY

NICK ENGLISH

SAMANTHA KRELTSZHEIM

JACE MCQUADE, MICHAEL NEWTON AND TOM BOYD

FRASER ELLIS

JACK GERRISH

Mar ley takes Marley takes fir st steps first steps on umpiring on jour ney journey

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

WHILE last weekend’s opening round of the footy and netball season saw milestones for players on the field, it also marked the debut of a boundary umpire.

Marley Higham, 12, ran the boundary in the Good Friday senior footy clash between Moyhu and Greta, alongside grandfather Lenny Holden.

Lenny has been involved in footy since the mid-1960s as a junior, and has umpired for the last 22 years.

Marley loves footy, and when Lenny brought her along to umpire training, she caught the bug.

“I like footy, I wanted to play but I got more into umpiring it than playing,” she said.

“The money’s good, it’s good for keeping fit, you can meet a lot of people.

“I found out I was umpiring on (last) Tuesday, I was really happy.

“I was on Greta’s side –they were kicking a lot of goals and I kept running it back, it was very hot, but it was nice.

“If I wasn’t enjoying it, I wouldn’t do it, but I really like it.”

Marley is looking forward to umpiring as many games as she can, and hoped to balance her junior netball commitments with her footy umpiring duties.

She said she hoped to pass her grandfather’s games total, currently north of 350 matches officiated.

Lenny said being able to umpire alongside his grand-

daughter was a really special moment.

“We wanted her to play but she’s a bit young, we wanted her to keep her fitness up so I got her to come to (umpire) training, and she got more and more involved in it and loved it,” he said.

“We knew (about Marley’s debut) on Sunday and we kept it a secret.

“It gives me goosebumps too, doing her first game

with her was awesome.

“They were good to her, kids were bringing her drinks all the time.”

Lenny said there was always room for more umpires, and welcomed any interested people of any age to put their hand up and try it out.

“The guys have been so welcoming to her at training, she mixes in really well with them, they give each other high fives,” he said.

“She talks with them like she’s known them for years.

“That’s what they do –umpires involve everybody, not keep people over here or there like some footy clubs do.

“They involve everybody.

“We’re trying to get as many kids as we can, we’re hoping Marley can pass it on to other kids.”

As for Marley, she will make her second appearance as an umpire at the

Saturday evening clash between North Wangaratta and Moyhu this weekend, the next step in her no doubt illustrious journey as an umpire.

Anyone interested in becoming an umpire can visit the Umpire NEB page on Facebook, check out play. afl/umpire online, or head along to AFL NEB umpire training at Wareena Park every Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm.

Wangaratta juniors diving in to nationals excitement

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

FOUR Wangaratta juniors are off to compete against Australia’s fastest in the water this weekend.

Max Chandler (12), Nina Fortaliza (14), Harry Allen (14) from Wangaratta Amateur Swimming Club and Wangaratta Stingray’s Matthew Mace (15) are heading to the sunshine state in Gold Coast where this year’s Australian Age and MultiClass Age champions will be crowned.

For Harry and Max it will be their first time on a national championship stage while Nina and Matthew will be backing up last year’s appearance.

Harry made the qualification time for the 50m butterfly at the state All Junior Finals in Melbourne on March 16.

The 14-year-old will be swimming on Thursday afternoon and said he was

OFF TO THE SUNSHINE STATE: Harry Allen and Nina Fortaliza will be representing the Wangaratta Amateur Swimming Club with Max Chandler next week at the Australian Age and MC Swimming Championships at the Gold Coast.

looking forward to hitting the water against the high caliber of competition.

“It’ll be a lot easier focusing on the one stroke, you don’t have to worry about anything else and I’ve been feeling very good about my butterfly lately,” he said.

“It would be good to improve on my PB but it’s all about having fun.”

Since appearing at nation-

als last year, Nina has made steady improvements on her personal bests in her preferred breastroke throughout the summer season, highlighted by her silver medal placing at the state All Junior Finals.

Nina said she was hoping to continue her string of PBs for her 50m event on Wednesday.

“I dropped half a second at state and it would be good if could get 35sec,” she said.

“It’ll be good to have the team support there.”

Wangaratta Stingray’s Matthew Mace will be appearing in his second straight year in the 50m freestyle and backstroke events after making qualifying times in the regional championships in Wangaratta back in February.

Matthew said his experience on the big stage last

year had greatly contributed to a boost in confidence going into his swims this year.

“I am feeling much better than I had felt last year going into nationals, because I have a clear picture of what to expect on the day and what to do,” he said. “Competing at a level such as nationals is a great achievement because it reflects any athlete’s hard work

and dedication to get to this point in their career.”

The 15-year-old will be competing in the 50m freestyle on Tuesday and the 50m backstroke on the following Saturday, April 13.

“I am hoping to make it to a final in freestyle, either top 10 or 20, as freestyle is my most dominant stroke; while in backstroke I’m not expecting much, maybe a PB,” Matt said.

Matthew will also be supporting good friend Merlin Tzaros on April 7 as the 15-year-old competes in his triathlon nationals.

Max will be the first of the local hopes to be jumping in the water in the multi-class events, swimming the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyles from Saturday to Monday.

On his nationals debut, Max will be heading in with plenty of confidence after an outstanding All Junior Finals with four gold medals across all strokes.

Every day of the Australian Age and MC Championships will be streamed live via 9now.

SET TO STING: Matthew Mace will be competing in the 50m freestyle and backstroke during nationals next week.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

UMPIRING DYNASTY: Marley Higham and Lenny Holden umpired together for the first time last weekend.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

All welcome at wheelchair tennis come and try day

By JORDAN DUURSMA

TENNIS Victoria, with the support of local tennis clubs, will be hosting a Wheelchair Tennis Come and Try Day on Saturday, April 6 from 12pm to 2pm, at Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis Association.

Local qualified coaches will be delivering a range of activities from warm-up drills, experience in wheelchairs and plenty of opportunities to hit a few tennis balls.

Simon Fox, from Goulburn Valley Gangarru Parasports said able-bodied people are welcome to join in.

“We are really encouraging people with and without disability to come along and try wheelchair tennis and give it ago to break down some of the barriers that may exist,” Fox said.

“We don’t mind them (able-bodied people) being in wheelchairs with us, that’s a myth we need to break.

“We are bringing a heap of spare chairs, we’ll have an extra eight chairs for anyone to jump in and have a go.

“Including people with and without disabilities

breaks down some barriers and gets everyone involved.

“Our philosophy, something we share with Tennis Victoria, is to increase participation, increase adaptive

minds and increase adaptive bodies.”

The event is part of a series of programs Tennis Victoria are delivering which aim to create a safe and in-

clusive tennis community, enabling more people to play more often. This is the second of its kind after the first was held in Wodonga last month, with sites set to

expand within the region.

Tennis Victoria, with the support of Goulburn Valley Gangarru Parasports and Tennis Australia, aim to develop a sustainable wheelchair tennis program in the region where anyone can come along, play wheelchair tennis and be a part of a club and community.

“There will be Come and Try Days across the region, we’ve had a successful session in Wodonga and we’ll be following up with Wangaratta, Shepparton and Seymour with Tennis Victoria’s support,” Fox said.

The Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis Association is an inclusive club that has disability access to their facility and they encourage the community to come along for a fun, social afternoon of tennis.

Email cameronmeagher@ hotmail.com to register for the event or just come along on the day.

Devils return from Easter lay-off

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City returns from the Easter break with a home clash with Wodonga Diamonds on Sunday.

After a .500 start to the season, the Devils will see Sunday’s clash as a great opportunity to grab their second win for the season against the winless Diamonds.

“This early in the season you can’t really tell what other sides are like,” Molinaro said.

“We couldn’t get the result we wanted against Albury City last round so we see this weekend as a good opportunity to get back on the winners’ list.

“We’re still figuring out our best 11 but I think we’re getting closer to working that out and our side this weekend will be our strongest yet.”

While the Devils had the Easter weekend off, they still enjoyed a massive 8-3 win over St Pat’s in last Wednesday’s FA Cup round one match.

Wangaratta overseas recruit Mason Taylor dominated scoring five goals in the win and will bolster the Devils in Sunday’s clash with Diamonds.

“Mason played in the FA Cup win and is finding his feet,” Molinaro said.

“Having that striker is going to be great for us, Mason’s

a good size but still has speed and is a really good finisher.

“He’s the type of player that brings everyone along with him, he’s been taking some of the boys out for extra sessions and is already a great role model at the club.”

Molinaro said he’s hopeful his side improves in their defensive end this weekend.

“I think now we want to work on our defensive end and work on not conceding too many goals,” he said.

“We’ll be boosted in that area with Raul Pahina coming back from injury.

“We’ve also been looking at our structure and want to play from the back a but more this weekend.”

Refreshed Lady Devils face double Diamonds clash

By NATHAN DE VRIES

AFTER taking the weekend off, Wangaratta City FC’s senior women will play two matches in four days to crack into a massive block in the fixture.

The Lady Devils returned to the park last night in an FA Cup clash with Wodonga Diamonds, and will face them again on Sunday in the league competition –results from both matches will be published in Wednesday’s Chronicle.

The Albury Wodonga Football Association took the weekend off with the Easter long weekend, and the Lady Devils will not have

another break for almost three months.

With the numbers and talent flourishing at the club, senior coach Terry Masters said his side was ready for the long haul.

“We’ve got a reasonable squad now, I think we’ve got about 30 players between the two sides, so if people want to take the weekend off, they can,” he said.

“It’s getting harder and harder to pick the squad, let alone the starting 11.

“The players we’ve picked up this week, they’ve played at the club for a while and they’re quality, so that adds to the top which pushes things down, which means

it lifts the div two girls.

“I’m not too worried about that, it’s actually good to get some game time into people.”

Their opponents in both the FA Cup and league fixtures, Diamonds have enjoyed a strong start to the season, including a 4-2 win over Albury United in their opening Cup match, as well as two wins in the Sunday competition (6-0 vs Myrtleford, 5-1 vs Wodonga Heart).

Masters said he backed the Wangaratta game style to provide more than enough attacking and defensive options.

“I don’t know too much about Diamonds, I think they’ve had a couple of results, but their whole

junior program is pretty good, so you’d expect them to be competitive,” he said.

“It’ll be interesting to see how we go, they should test us a bit.

“It’ll be similar to what we did against Albury City, where we moved the ball around, pass the ball through the midfield.

“I’ve noticed in a couple of games I’ve watched, not just us but a lot of sides will put it long, get it out of their defence and up to their forward line as quick as possible, whereas we’re working on moving it through our midfield.

“If we do that, it’ll open up things, means we can get behind our defence, get the ball into the at-

tacking areas where we can score.

“We’ve got enough goal scorers in our team, I’d be very surprised if we’re kept to zero.

“Probably the hardest thing, depending on what the result is from the FA Cup, is how we turn up on Sunday.

“You can have a good win then turn off, or you could have a bad result and it could reduce the confidence - I think, with having a big squad, we can make sure that doesn’t happen.”

The Lady Devils take on Wodonga Diamonds at home this Sunday, with the division two match from 9.50am and the division one game from 11.20am.

DIAMONDS TEST: Stoycho Ivanov and Wangaratta City face Wodonga Diamonds on Sunday. PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

COME AND TRY WHEELCHAIR TENNIS: Toby Gigliotti (11), Paul Williams, Maria Pulvirenti, Simon Fox, Jo Maples, Jasmin Flores and Noah Gigliotti (13).

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

MATCH PREVIEWS

Twilight kick-off for Hawks’ flag fight

STORIES

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

A BEAUTIFUL Saturday evening, a pristine ground, and two up-andcoming clubs locking horns under lights – you can’t ask for anything more to launch a club’s season.

North Wangaratta will finally take to the field this weekend against Moyhu, with the senior football match commencing from 6pm under lights at the North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve.

After sitting out round one with the bye, the Hawks are raring to go.

“We can’t wait to get started on Saturday night,” North Wangaratta senior coach Steve Manning said.

“It’s been a really good preseason, we’ve got a good, strong core group of players who have really put in a power of work, a lot of them are as fit as they’ve ever been and raring to go.

“Weather’s good, the ground’s looking as good as it was in September last year.

“All things being equal, it’s going to be a terrific night, we really hope to get a good crowd there to come out and support some local community foot, two clubs on the rise - it should be a really exciting night.”

The Hoppers have the advantage of a game under their belts already, turning in a strong performance against Greta in round one, and Manning said he was in no way underestimating their skill and tenacity ahead of their match.

“Despite the score, I was pretty impressed with how they didn’t give in all day,” he said.

“Everyone wrote Moyhu off last year, everyone was saying to was go-

ing to be a long year for them, and they came out and played a super game against us in round one.

“We certainly can’t be taking them lightly, they’re going to be set for it.

“Both clubs came a long way last year, made a lot of ground on the rest of the competition.

“The battle now is for us to sustain it and improve again on our benchmark.”

Former Magpie Josh Nanson

will make his debut for the Hawks alongside brother Tyler, and will be one to watch through the midfield.

“We’ve had a number of guys who had really good preseasons, we’re trialling a few guys in different positions, and both of our practice games have gone really well,” Manning said.

“Having the experience and ability of Josh Nanson in the middle of the ground is a bit of an easy one for us.

“Josh brings a lot of experience for different plays and set-ups that perhaps they ran at the Maggies, and also his ball-winning ability around the ground and skill is elite.

“From our point of view, we’re really excited that Josh is on our team, and he’s really excited as well.”

North Wangaratta takes on Moyhu on Saturday evening at North Wangaratta, with the reserves match beginning from 4pm and the seniors from 6pm.

Heavyweight showdown for Dees and Bright

TWO of the heavy hitters of the Ovens and King competition will stand toe-to-toe at Pioneer Park this weekend, when Milawa makes the trip up to Bright.

Both teams are already tagged to feature in finals, and if their bouts last season are any indication, it should be another cracker.

The last time they faced off against each other was the semifinal, which Bright won 10.13 (73) to Milawa’s 8.10 (58), and the Demons are eager to settle the score.

After a narrow seven point win over King Valley last weekend, the new look Milawa outfit will look to further gel up against a strong opponent.

“For us to have them fight to get that win with having eight players debut for Milawa on the weekend means the club and the playing group are heading in the right direction,” co-coach Matt Graham said.

“I think it’s the same with the top four from last season to this season, if both teams are playing well it should be a couple of goals in it either way.

“We missed a couple of opportu-

nities, a couple of midfielders and forwards probably missed a few they should’ve got, but we take the positive out of the game that we had 10 more scoring shots up there than we did the year before.

“We were getting plenty of forward 50 entries, we just weren’t capitalising and kept King Valley in the game for longer than we

would’ve liked, but we know from a club like King Valley, it’s always a hard game of football up there, and it gets made worse at Easter when they’ve all primed and ready to go with a big crowd.

“It’s going to take time, like anything, to gel and learn to play football together.

“Bright won the battle two games

Lions are back on the court tomorrow

IT’S been a long time coming, but Whorouly’s A grade netball squad can finally begin their season.

After a long preseason and the bye last weekend, the Lions will hit the court for the first time this year, taking on Benalla All Blacks at Friendlies Oval.

The Lions have made finals the last few years, and with a relatively unchanged list bolstered by some new arrivals, they’re sure to be pushing for September action once again.

Coach Kelly Cousins said taking the bye last week allowed her squad to be as prepared as possible for their hit-out.

“We’ve had some really solid training sessions leading up to our first match, and we also managed to get in three practice matches in midMarch which allowed us to test different combinations, grow connections, as well as get some match fitness into our players,” she said.

“I think our girls were quite happy we had the round one bye given the hot weather conditions of last weekend.

“I don’t think it will hurt us too much in the whole scheme of things and this weekend’s weather forecast is looking a lot milder so that definitely works for us.”

Benalla will come out eager to make amends after their 36-74 loss in round one, but Cousins was confident her squad could do the job as they did in both of their encounters with the Panthers last year.

“We have a very similar line up from last season, a few changes but overall we have a fairly settled and familiar line up,” she said.

to one last season, we were able to get the jump on them early in the season and we’re hoping to go up there, get the same start we had last year and hopefully with the squad we’ve got this season we’ll be able to keep the lead throughout the match and bring home the four points.”

Graham said he was eager to see former Moyhu recruits Jared Lea and Brady Bartlett perform up forward.

“King Valley is a really hard ground to play on when you’re a tall forward, so I’m looking forward to seeing those in action,” he said.

“I’d say with our midfield continuing to develop, we were able to have a mix of old and new through the midfield and wings for round one, hopefully they can double down and continue that improvement from round one.

“Hopefully the new recruits like Braydon Kearns and Brandon Fitzpatick can take off from their good first games and continue that into the season.”

Milawa takes on Bright at Pioneer Park this Saturday, with the senior game set for a 2pm bounce.

“Early wins are always important as it sets you up for the rest of the season without having to rely on results going your way at the back end of year.

“Benalla are always a tough team to come up against, I have no doubt they will bounce back from round one and provide us with a solid contest.

“We are just looking to embed what we have been doing at training into a live match and hopefully that will see us take the win.

“For the Lions to be successful this year it is going to take a team effort for us to match it with the top sides.”

The Lions take on Benalla All Blacks this Saturday at Friendlies Oval, Benalla –netball action commences from 9.30am, with the A grade game set for a 1.15pm start.

In other round two matches, Milawa heads up the mountain to take on Bright, the Blues host the Bats, Tarrawingee plays King Valley, and the Hawks go up against the Hoppers.

REMATCH: Milawa will look to avenge last season’s semi-final loss to Bright when they take on the Mountain Men this weekend. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

READY TO FLY: Damien Bradley and the Hawks will kickstart their 2024 O&K campaign this Saturday evening against the Hoppers.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

‘Pies after response against Hoppers MATCH PREVIEWS

STORIES

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA will be looking for a quick bounce back when they face North Albury at Bunton Park tomorrow.

After a 12-point derby loss to start the season, the Magpies take on a winning Hoppers side who kicked their season off with a 10-point victory over Myrtleford.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid said he was disappointed with his side’s round one loss.

“No doubt we were disappointed with our effort and pressure on the weekend so that’s going to have to lift,” Reid said.

“We reviewed the game heavily earlier on in the week and our pressure just wasn’t acceptable but the boys trained well Tuesday and we’re keen to put it behind us.

“I think everyone’s looking forward to getting out there and rectifying it on the weekend.”

North Albury showed their marking game in their round one clash, smashing Myrtleford by 35 in that statistic with coach Tim Broomhead leading the way with 13 of them.

“In the first four games we play sides who like to mark so that’s something we’re looking at,” Reid said.

“North Albury like to kick short and change angles so our defence is going to have to be on and that’ll be a great test for us.”

The Hoppers have shown their gradual improvement over the past few seasons with their top liners as good as any other side.

Against Myrtleford Broomhead racked up 40 disposals, while Cayden Winter (32 disposals, 10 marks), Julian Hayes (30 disposals, 24 kicks), Sam Azzi (24 disposals, 10 marks) and Josh Minogue (three goals) all contributed heavily.

“They’ve got plenty of guys who can take a game away from you,” Reid said.

“’Broomy’ (Broomhead), Hayes, Winter and (George) Goode can all got plenty of the footy and I rate Minogue as a top three forward in the competition.

“Our work is going to be cut out for us and they’re going to be up and about after their win on the weekend.”

Minogue shapes as a massive threat to the Magpies with Reid saying new recruit Aidan Tilley may get the job on the dangerous key forward.

“I think Tilley may potentially go to him and I think he’ll be ready for the job,” Reid said.

“We got him into the club to play big jobs down back so I’d say he’ll get that opportunity on the weekend.

“We’ve got a few options though, we know ‘Bords’ (Michael Bordignon) can play on just about anyone.”

Reid’s hopeful his side will show a more exciting brand tomorrow.

“Our ball use last weekend was poor and some of that was due to Rovers’ pressure,” he said.

“Our ball use was also boring, we were just kicking long, down

the line so we want to shift the footy a bit more this weekend because we want to be an exciting side.”

In exciting news for the Magpies, youngster Charley HollandDean will make his senior debut.

“Charley was probably a bit stiff to miss out last weekend but he’ll get an opportunity this weekend,” Reid said.

“He’ll give us some speed with his running ability which we probably lacked a bit on the weekend.

“He’s ready for senior footy and will be a good player for the club for a long time.”

Bec Kreltszheim keen for game 150

WANGARATTA Rovers will be hoping to put up another strong fight in Rebecca Kreltszheim’s 150th club game.

After a spirited performance against Wangaratta, the Hawks will be hopeful they can bring their best against Corowa Rutherglen who opened their season with a 12-goal win over Albury.

Kreltszheim said she’s looking forward to taking the court with her teammates for the 150th time.

“Milestones are always exciting and make you reflect on the time you’ve had at the club,” Kreltszheim said.

“I’m looking forward to it but at the same time the main focus is on the game itself and doing what we can to compete with CorowaRutherglen.

“Hopefully we put up another strong performance like we did against the Magpies.”

While Kreltszheim admits her

side hasn’t had the success they would’ve liked in recent years, she’s confident it’s turning around.

“There hasn’t been the success we would’ve hoped for over the last few years but in saying that the culture’s been so positive,” she said.

“You don’t play 150 games at a club if you don’t enjoy it so that’s a credit to all of the girls that have stuck around.

“The future’s looking exciting and I’m sure there’ll be some success going off the direction we’re going in.”

But for Kreltszheim, the highlight of her career has been playing with sisters Sami and Emma.

“Playing with Sami has been great but we also have a little sister Emma who isn’t playing this year but I got to play with her a couple of years ago,” Kreltszheim said.

“Playing with the two of them will be some of the fonder memories I’ll look back on for sure.”

While the Roos are a bit of an unknown in 2024, their convincing win over Albury shows they’ll once again be competitive.

“They’ve got Sophie Hanrahan who’s such a dominant player in the O&M – any side that has her will be competitive,” Kreltszheim said.

“They’re a bit of an unknown but I think we are a bit too, not many would’ve expected the scoreline to be as close as it was last weekend.

“Hopefully we can push another side on Saturday.”

Meanwhile, Wangaratta will travel to Bunton Park to take on North Albury.

Like the Magpies, North Albury also won their round one clash, downing the highly-touted Myrtleford by four goals at RC McNamara Reserve.

The rising Hoppers side led from start to finish with goal shooting Lily Kelly netting 34 of her side’s goals.

ROUND TWO: Sam Murray and Wangaratta Rovers face CorowaRutherglen

Pressure’s the focus for Rovers

■ From back page

“Taking that into account we’ll just focus on ourselves and make sure we prepare well and bring the things that make us a good side.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we’ll get the result we’re after.”

The Hawks controlled the play for the majority of their derby contest and Murray said that’s an area his side is working on in 2024.

“We want to turn the ball over through our pressure and then not give it back when we do that,” Murray said.

“In previous seasons we’d win the ball back and then turn it over pretty quickly which reduces your scoring and helps theirs so controlling the ball is something we want to do.

“We’ve got good users in our side, especially a few of our recruits so we want to use them well.”

The Hawks’ recruits were on show in their round one clash with Lochie O’Brien (27 disposals), Sam Cattapan (24 disposals, eight marks), Xavier Allison (23 disposals, 19 kicks) and Kieran Parnell (13 disposals, 11 kicks) all impressing.

“We recruited well this year and we feel we got players who help us with the brand of footy we want to play,” Murray said.

Wangaratta coach Shea Cunningham said her side is expecting a tough contest.

“I think it’ll be another tough game,” Cunningham said.

“They bring some speed through the midcourt and will have the ball zipping around so we’re going to have to be on.

“Everyone is expecting Myrtleford to be a strong side after recruiting some handy players so North Albury will be a challenge.”

Cunningham said her side will be looking to shut down the influence on Kelly in offence.

“The biggest thing for us will be shutting down Lily Kelly,” she said.

“She took the bulk of the work and is pretty accurate under post so we’ll have to try and eliminate as much ball into her area as we can.

“If we can do that their GA will have to work a lot harder too.”

“We saw on the weekend that the guys we got are going to help us and I think the most pleasing part is that all of them have bought into the cause.”

Murray played around two thirds of the derby in the midfield and said he’ll spend most of his time in the engine room this season.

“My role will continue to change but I’ll mostly be in the midfield,” he said.

“I probably played 60-70 per cent in the midfield last weekend and I’d say it’ll be like that most weeks.

“If we need to slow things up and control the game a but I can go behind the ball but through the midfield I can get forward and try and impact on the scoreboard.

“With Xavier Allison and Kieran Parnell down back this year I can play more midfield.”

DEBUTANT: Charley Holland-Dean will make his senior debut for Wangaratta on Saturday. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

tomorrow.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

LENNY Holden and granddaughter Marley Higham hope to umpire together for many years.

■

Hawks to target rejuvenated Corowa-Rutherglen to extend perfect start to O&MFNL season gjgp

Pressure’s the focus for Rovers

WANGARATTA Rovers have the opportunity to start their season in perfect fashion when they host CorowaRutherglen on Saturday.

After a massive derby win in round one, Rovers will be expecting to be 2-0 after they face the Roos who to everyone’s delight, rejoined the O&M in 2024 after missing the 2023 season.

The Hawks built their round one win on pressure and Rovers coach Sam Murray said tomorrow’s focus will very much be the same.

“Pressure is a big part of out game and a big part of footy in this day and age,” Murray said.

“When you watch the AFL they’re always talking about the pressure gauge and where each side’s pressure is at so it’s a massive part of the game.

“For us we pride ourselves on that and we need to be a high pressure team because we’re a little bit undersized and we have players who are really good at playing that role.”

While Corowa-Rutherglen’s return to the O&M wasn’t what they would’ve hoped for as they fell to Albury by 135-points, Murray said the Hawks won’t underestimate them.

“It’ll be an interesting game because we don’t have much insight into them because they’ve obviously got a new list,” Murray said.

■ Continued page 33