Wangaratta Chronicle 050723

Wareena Park limbo

Council awaiting external funding opportunities needed to advance ggpppjproject

WHILE there are no funding applications currently lodged for the project, development of Wangaratta’s Wareena Park area remains one of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s 13 advocacy priorities.

Marcus Goonan, Rural City of Wangaratta director community and infrastructure, stressed that external funding would be required to complete the “transformational” project,

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

which was adopted by council in mid-2020.

The masterplan for the area takes in the former Olympic Pool site, which was cleared in 2021, and nearby Wareena Park Oval, Coronation Kindergarten

and Wareena Park Bowls Club.

Its vision is to transform the area into a “multigenerational place for all”.

This will include a community hub building expected to cater for the Wangaratta Senior Citizens Club; a seniors’ exercise area; picnic and gathering space; nature-based adventure play/recreational area; events lawn; main carpark reconfiguration;

wayinding/signage/ improvements to Wareena Park Oval; new sports entrance, drop–off area and car park; junior play and spectator viewing area; seating options; Coronation Kindergarten entrance/ exit; cycling launch spot; and fitness circuits, with preservation of existing significant trees.

Mr Goonan said planning already completed on the project meant council was

well-placed to be able to lodge an application when opportunities arose, and based on council’s longterm financial plan.

“The reality is it is going to take external funding to get it done; more than likely state funding, but there are sometimes federal opportunities,” he said.

“It needs joint funding.”

Mr Goonan said government funding streams were starting to

revert to pre-COVID levels.

“There was a lot of COVID stimulation out there, and it is now returning to what it was,” he said.

“(Wareena Park) is one of a really significant number of projects council would like to see go ahead, but as with everyone, we need to look at budgets, and unfortunately these projects take time to come to fruition.”

■ Continued page 2

TRUST for Nature’s Will Ford and Blake Hose, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education’s Ji Atkinson and Rural City of Wangaratta council’s Vanessa Thompson are excited to be bringing the Kids on Country NAIDOC Week free family event, this Friday at the Northern Beaches. The day’s activities will include a wildlife presentation of native animals, activities, face painting, an Elders lounge, art, games and a barbeque lunch. It all starts at the Scout Hall from 10:30am-2pm. Full story page 5.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Bridge disappear s disappears from landscape from landscape

Lucky escape in cliff drama

By BRODIE EVERIST

FIVE occupants of a car that drove off a cliff and fell 200 metres near Harrietville have managed to survive with non-life threatening injuries.

Victoria Police said emergency services were called to reports a car had driven down a cliff on Great Alpine Road about 6:15pm on Sunday.

Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll, of Bright police, said the three adults and two children in the vehicle were rescued as part of a multiagency high-angle operation, including CFA and SES.

Car falls 200 metres, all fi ve occupants avoid non-life threatening ,pgjinjuries

Victoria Police media said a 59-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, a 34-year-old woman was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and a 35-year-old man and two children were taken to hospital for observation.

Sen Sgt Incoll confirmed the 59-year-old woman had been airlifted to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, while the other occupants of the car were taken by ambulance to

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Wangaratta Hospital.

“It’s lucky there weren’t major injuries or deaths,” he said.

According to Sen Sgt Incoll, the driver of the car had turned left into a sign advising of a left hand turn 50 metres ahead.

He said fatigue was a possible cause of the crash, as the group had travelled from Melbourne that day, been sightseeing at Mount Hotham, and were driving back to Bright.

Meanwhile, weather conditions were clear and the road was dry, he said.

Sen Sgt Incoll reminded motorists to take due care on Great Alpine Road and take proper fatigue breaks when needed.

He said it took emergency services around four hours to clear the scene, with the road between Harrietville and Mount Hotham closed for around three hours.

Marcus Warner, Bright SES deputy controller of operations, said around 40 first responders attended, including members of the Bright SES, Mount Beauty

CFA, Bright CFA and Harrietville CFA.

He said members of Fire Rescue Victoria, the Mount Beauty CFA and Bright SES mounted a technical rescue that allowed personnel and stretchers to be lowered around 160 metres down from the edge of the cliff.

According to Mr Warner, they found the two children around 50 metres from the vehicle and were able to carry them up to the road on foot, while the 59-year-old lady was

taken by stretcher, requiring four rescue attendants.

He said they found the 34-year-old woman underneath the vehicle, and she was also taken by stretcher.

He said it was a successful rescue, “with all agencies working seamlessly in challenging conditions.”

Sen Sgt Incoll also commended emergency services.

“It’s a great example of a multi-agency response to an incident that could have been avoided,” he said.

Council is still awaiting external funding opportunities needed to advance project

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*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Tuesday Member

■ From page 1 Council’s 2022-’23 advocacy strategy says the first stage of the Wareena Park projectcompletion of the community hub - will cost $6 million.

Stage two, the sporting pavilion, is expected to cost $3.5 million.

The document says council has budgeted for a contribution of $5.9 million across the two stages within its long-term financial plan.

Along with the city’s sports, aquatic and events precinct, and Merriwa Park, the Wareena Park plan is included in the priority centred on Wangaratta’s recreational spaces and community facilities.

The other 12 advocacy priorities listed in the document are:

 ongoing funding for the Prosecco Road project in the King Valley, above the $4m already received;

 Wangaratta aerodrome and industrial precinct;

 Wangaratta creative expansion project, involving the art gallery, performing arts and convention centre, and visitor information centre (council officers are currently working on the detailed design for this project with funding from the State Government);

 mental health, focusing on support of the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program,

which earlier this year received reduced but importantly ongoing State Government funding;

 telecommunications (addressing blackspot areas for residential, business and agricultural access to fast and reliable mobile and digital services);

 Benalla-Whitfield Road upgrade;

 advocacy to the State Government for WangarattaWhitfield Road upgrade;

 organics processing plant;

 housing, focusing on development on the former Ovens College site (council recently entered into preliminary agreements to

complete this project);

 planning for a safe climate - council continues to increase its spend on climate adaptation, and received significant funding from the State and Federal Governments to upgrade the existing levees in Wangaratta;

 infrastructure to unlock growth, particularly sewerage infrastructure (with some funding announced in the recent State Government budget); and

 enhanced educational outcomes, including supporting access to university courses locally via the regional university hub, and renewed facilities at GOTAFE’s Docker Street campus.

Local COVID case reports continue to fall

By ANITA MCPHERSON

ONLY nine COVID-19 cases were recorded in the Wangaratta region in the last weekly reporting period, down from 24 the previous week.

It’s the lowest weekly total reported to the Department of Health since March, and corresponds with a continued steady decline across the state.

A total of 2560 COVID-19 cases

were reported in Victoria last week, down 15 per cent on the previous week.

There were 174 COVID patients in Victorian hospitals last week, with 11 COVID patients in intensive care, and 58 COVID-related deaths were reported.

COVID hospital admissions are trending down, as are detections of COVID in wastewater, indicating a further reduction

in the number of infections in Victoria.

Oral antiviral medications remain highly effective against all currently circulating COVID subvariants to reduce severe disease and prevent death, and they are available to all those aged 70 or over who test positive for COVID.

They are also available to those aged under 70 who are at higher risk of severe illness, so

it is recommended you have an early discussion with your GP or nurse practitioner after testing positive.

Eligible Victorians who have not had a COVID vaccination or confirmed infection in the past six months can now receive their 2023 booster, available at your GP or local pharmacy including South Wangaratta Medical Centre and Ramsay Pharmacy in Ovens Street.

AWAITING FUNDING AVENUES: Council has stressed that external funding, from State or Federal Government, will need to be secured for the advancement of the Wareena Park Masterplan, which aims to transform this area.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

Bundalong address linked to $780,000 copper thefts

POLICE have arrested six people allegedly involved in $780,000 worth of copper thefts across the state, with some of the offending linked to the Bundalong area.

Detectives seized an estimated $95,000 worth of copper during a series of raids late last week, which included a search warrant executed at a Bundalong address.

A 43-year-old Bundoora man will face Wangaratta Magistrates Court later this year, after being charged

NAIDOC event at Winton Wetlands on Friday

WINTON Wetlands

will mark NAIDOC

Week, the annual national celebration of First Nations people and culture, with a special morning tea hosted by Koorie cultural officer, Nikki James, this Friday.

A proud Yorta Yorta woman, Nikki will talk about what Elders mean to her culture and outline some of the history of Mokoan - as the wetlands have long been known to Yorta Yorta people - from her perspective.

The event will run from 10am until 12.30pm at Mokoan Hub and Café at Winton Wetlands, starting at 10am sharp with a welcome to country and smoking ceremony.

All are welcome to come along and listen, learn, ask questions, chat and enjoy a pleasant morning tea, with the cost $15 per person and bookings at wintonwetlands.org.au.

with the theft of $215,000 worth of copper cabling and criminal damage to the value of $30,000 to telecommunication footpath pits.

A 31-year-old Bundoora woman, a 39-year-old Eltham man, a 58-yearold Cottles Bridge man were also charged, while a 34-year-old Glenroy man and a 31-year-old Reservoir man were released pending further enquiries.

The alleged criminal syndicate is alleged to have car-

ried out over 50 large-scale copper thefts between January and June this year.

It’s alleged the offenders used portable power tools to cut through cabling at telecommuncations pits to steal large quantities of copper, causing significant damage to infrastructure and placing stress on internet and power services in the northern suburbs.

North West Metro Regional Crime Squad Detective Inspector Patrick Watkin-

son said he was confident the arrests would have an impact on offending across Melbourne.

“Some may think that this is a victimless crime – but the impact of large-scale copper theft is serious,” he said.

“The theft of copper causes significant damage to critical infrastructure, impacting telecommunications networks, public transport signaling and power supply.

“Not only does it signifi-

cantly damage critical infrastructure, it also causes undue distress and disruption to the community through the loss of internet and power services, or disruptions to transport networks.

“Our message to anyone thinking of stealing copper to make a quick dollar is simply don’t; we have a number of methods allowing us to disrupt this offending as well as enabling us to identify and track down those involved.”

Company outlines guilty plea amid EPA charges

CHARGES against a Benalla-based particle board manufacturer are expected to be resolved next month, following allegations the company emitted nuisance dust, odours, particles and oxides of nitrogen beyond its boundaries over a 13 month period into last year.

Monsbent Pty Ltd, which trades as D&R Henderson, was charged by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in September last year, after allegedly breaching its licence in May, June, July, August, September, October and November of 2021, and April and June of 2022.

A former company director was also charged, with both he and the company facing 39 charges.

Appearing before Benalla Magistrates Court yesterday, defence lawyer Mitchell Mathas said it was likely the charges would be significantly reduced in the event of a guilty plea, which he said could come as soon as next month.

He said it was forecast the company would plead guilty to all of the offending, while he would seek a sentence indication for the accused director.

D&R Henderson had initially disputed the allegations, with Tuesday’s matter being heard as a contested mention.

Historic pedestrian footbridge no longer in landscape

By RYAN MALCOLM

A LANDMARK within the Wangaratta Railway Station precinct since 1888 is no more.

The heritage listed Cusack Street footbridge was officially removed on Monday.

The North East rail line was closed to trains throughout the day to allow for the works to be completed.

Removal of footbridge clears the way for the next step of the Inland Rail project to proceed, including construction of a pedestrian underpass at the station.

The Docker Street footbridge will remain open for pedestrian use until the finalisation of the pedestrian underpass project.

Both footbridges are being removed to accom-

modate clearance for 2.4m double stacked trains under the Inland Rail project.

The former Cusack Street bridge, as well as the wider railway station, were recognised by the Heritage Council Victoria as an example of 1870s large country town station building, and were first classified more than 30 years ago.

Elements of the Cusask

Street footbridge’s heritage and design will be incorporated into the new pedestrian underpass.

In addition to removal of both pedestrian footbridges, the Inland Rail project will see the existing rail track on the eastern side of the station relocated and a new platform constructed, and the existing Green Street bridge replaced.

Mr Mathas said the defence would be tabling a signed affidavit from the individual defendant, outlining the steps he took to comply with the guidelines set by the EPA.

EPA prosecutor Peter Tziotos admitted some 33 of the allegations specifically related to the discharge of nuisance dust and odours.

Magistrate Peter Dunn ordered the matter return before the court on August 8.

GONE: After being a permanent fixture for more than than 130 years, spanning the railway tracks, the Cusack Street pedestrian bridge is no more.

PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm

Creative art inspires minds

RECYCLED materials inspired the minds of youngsters to create musical instruments at the Wangaratta Library school holiday program last Wednesday.

GETTING CREATIVE:

Gemma and Connor Batt prepare to create a guitar using recycled materials.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

INSPIRED: Kahlia and Skylah Thompson love working together.

SHOW AND TELL: Madison Robinson shows off her work in progress.

Students keen to pursue their ideal careers, after real experience

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

By TOM PACCAGNAN work experience student

FROM horses to hairdressing, year 10 students at Galen Catholic College entered the real world for a week last month.

The students were fortunate to get to experience what it’s like to work at their ideal jobs.

Many students worked locally, such as Georgia Peters and Rhys Holligan.

Georgia did her work experience at Allison’s Hairdressing, where she got to see what it is like behind the scenes.

“The friendly staff and customers have been great,” she said.

Rhys worked at the Wangaratta Chronicle in the

graphic design area.

“I’m very interested in graphic design,” he said.

“I’d like a future in it because it’s fun and it interests me.”

Other students decided to venture out of Wangaratta, including Bek Grincais and Luke Ashcroft.

Bek went to Bendigo, where she worked at the equine hospital.

“Animal welfare has been a strong passion of mine,” she said.

“I observed the many techniques required to aid horse health, and learnt much about

certain roles and responsibilities.

“When I first came in they had just finished euthanising a horse.

“It was confronting.

“I realised this was a serious business.”

Luke however worked at St Joseph’s Primary School in Beechworth, where he gained insight to teaching, and education.

He had the opportunity to see how the school operates, and became involved in classroom learning.

“I have an interest in teaching, and may pursue a career in secondary education,” Luke said.

“I have enjoyed every aspect of it.”

When asked, all students found the experience enjoyable and plan to have a future in their given careers.

CHECK THIS OUT: Riza AliMilne shows the progression of creativity.

READY TO GO: Ayla Ali-Milne prepares her instrument.

WORK EXPERIENCE: Year 10 students ventured into the workplace for the week last month, Including Rhys Holligan (left) and Tom Paccagnan (right) who were at the Wangaratta Chronicle.

PHOTO: Luke Plummer

Heavy rains persist after June’s wetter start to winter

By RYAN MALCOLM

WINTER weather was quick to descend on the rural city in 2023, with minimum temperatures repeatedly nearing zero and a series of heavy downpours resulting in widespread flooding across the North East.

Despite an El Nino forecast expected to bring with it consistently drier conditions throughout winter, the 98mm of rain which fell at Wangaratta’s aero weather station was the city’s 16th highest June total in the last century, thanks largely to a 35.2mm torrent on June 8.

Consistent rain through-

out the month, with further downpours of 11.4mm (June 6), 10.4mm (June 23) and 9mm (June 24), led to minor flooding along the Ovens and King rivers during both stretches, resulting in wet catchments which is expected to retain the region’s flood threat over the coming months.

The 98mm which fell last month dwarfed the 64mm return last June, and marked only the third time June rainfall totals had exceeded 90mm locally this millennium.

Record 24 hour rainfall totals were also recorded throughout the North East

in June, with Whitfield (112mm) recording its wettest June day on June 15, surpassing the 85mm record set in 1917.

However, despite the gloomy weather which came with the regular rainfall, mean temperatures saw a slight increase as compared to 2022 figures, with a mean low of 4.8 degrees and a high of 13.4 (4.1 and 12.8 in 2022).

The rural city’s hottest day for the month occurred on June 4, when the mercury rose to 20 degrees, while temperatures only fell as low as 13.3 degrees on June 8, despite consistent rain.

Temperatures fell below freezing on consecutive days on June 20 and 21, with the -2.1 degree temperature recorded on the former marking the city’s coldest morning.

The city’s coldest maximum temperature for the month was recorded three times in a seven day span, with temperatures failing to exceed 9.7 degrees on June 21, June 23 and June 28.

July has started out similarly cold, with temperatures falling into the negatives once already.

Rain is forecast throughout the remainder of the week, with up to 34mm an-

ticipated across the rural city through Sunday.

The region’s alpine resorts have benefited from consistent low temperatures in recent weeks, with nearing on 150cm of snow falling at Mount Hotham since the beginning of the season.

Some 8cm has fallen in the last week, according to the resort’s most recent snow report, with an average snow depth of 73cm across the mountain.

Conditions at Falls Creek are even better, with an average snow depth of 84cm as of yesterday, although no snow has been recorded since June 30.

UNDERWATER: Consistent rain throughout June has left wet catchments throughout the North East, which saw Apex Park (pictured) underwater several times in the opening weeks of winter.

Celebration of our past

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

THE community is urged to check out some of the best local winter wildlife Wangaratta has to offer on Friday as a part of the rural city’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.

Rural City of Wangaratta council along with Trust for Nature and Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education (ACHE) will host the collaborative event which will feature wildlife discovery activities, face painting, games, an Elders lounge, NAIDOC Week artwork by Rebecca Atkinson and more.

The drawcard event will be the wildlife presentations of native animals from 11am which will be followed by a free barbeque lunch from 12pm.

Rural city environment officer, Vanessa Thompson, said the event will provide an opportunity for families to take part in winter fun while also learning more of the local environment in celebration of NAIDOC Week.

“It’s a great time to get outside and you can see the difference in the river down at the Northern Beaches, we’ve just had the river come up so it’s great to see the different ways the river

moves through this place,” she said.

“We’d love for everyone to learn a bit more about where we live, who we share this space with and what we can do to make it a great place for all species.”

Attendees are asked to meet at the Scout Hall on College Street from 10:30am before making their way to the Northern Beaches.

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is ‘For Our Elders’, which aims to recognise the role elders have played

and continue to play in Indigenous communities and families.

Trust for Nature cultural liaison officer and director at ACHE, Ji Atkinson, said the theme was a reminder for all to respect and honour the triumphs and struggles of our elders.

“In the Aboriginal community our elders are our everything, they’re our royalty,” she said.

“They’ve been through the most hardship out of any one of us so it’s about

showing our respect and supporting them in any way they need.”

“I’m really proud to be a part of the theme this year, I’m close to my elders and my grandmothers, uncles and aunties so this week means a lot to me in terms of being able to give back and show my respect.”

On Monday Ms Atkinson attended an elders luncheon at the Wangaratta Bowls Club to start NAIDOC Week celebrations and will continue to attend events

across the region.

“I hope people get the feeling of wanting to celebrate out of these events but also to learn a bit more and come together with our Indigenous communities across the North East,” Ms Atkinson said.

“I noticed when I first moved back to Wangaratta there wasn’t many events or opportunities for the community to come together during NAIDOC Week to socialise and celebrate the week and it

has always been a big part of my life to celebrate during NAIDOC Week.

“It’s Trust for Nature’s first ever NAIDOC Week event they’ve been a part on Friday so I’m really proud to be a part of that change as well.”

For more information on the Kids on Country event NAIDOC Week event, call the Rural City of Wangaratta environment team on 03 5722 0888 or email environment@wangaratta. vic.gov.au.

Organisers of the free Kids on Country family event Will Ford, Ji Atkinson, Blake Hose and Vanessa Thompson showcasing just some of the activities which will be on offer on Friday at the Northern Beaches.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

NACC finally in operation

THE long-awaited and highly anticipated (for many) National Anti-Corruption Commission finally commenced on July 1 and instantly there was a flurry of referrals for the new body to investigate.

Such a federal body was a long-time coming despite equivalent commissions operating at state level for a number of years.

It was difficult to understand why some major political parties were so opposed to an independent body being able to investigate matters of corruption, especially with so many allegations of such behaviours being made over so many years.

And while Indi independent Helen Haines played a major role in it becoming a hot topic in Canberra there was eventually wide spread support from the cross bench and MPs from most parties for its delivery.

Certainly the majority of Australian voters were keen for its implementation with around 70 per cent in favour of one in the lead up to the last election.

As always, not everyone was enamoured with the final version of the NACC but it is a start.

Now it will be up to the inaugural commissioner Paul Brereton to steer the body through the minefield of referrals already made for the body to investigate.

Mr Brereton appears determined not to be swayed by the political powers that will try to sway his decisions on what or who to investigate for their own gain or to cloud the waters on their own past misdemeanours.

While most major political players will offer their support for the NACC you can expect that support to waver if the commission’s spotlight falls on their own MPs’ behaviour, past or present.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Australian QuizNo.31

1 Who immediately preceded Josh Frydenberg as Treasurer of Australia?

(a) Michael McCormack

(b) Joe Hockey

(c) Scott Morrison

(d) Christian Porter

2 In relation to the agency of the United Nations known as UNESCO, what does the E in UNESCO stand for?

(a) Establishment

(b) Economic

(c) Executive

(d) Educational

3 Who were the winners of the 2021 Australian TV series, Lego Masters?

(a) David & Gus

(b) Owen & Scott

(c) Sarah & Fleur

(d) Amy & Dawei

4 How many times did George Gregan play rugby union for the Wallabies?

(a) 109

(b) 119

(c) 129

(d) 139

5 Who was awarded the 2021 Booker Prize for Fiction?

(a) Anuk Arudpragasam

(b) Patricia Lockwood

(c) Damon Galgut

(d) Richard Powers

Listen to ‘No’ case before you vote

I WONDER what proportion of people intending a referendum ‘Yes’ vote have taken the trouble to examine the arguments being advanced by the ‘No’ proponents?

I urge any of your readers who have not carried out this logical, fair-minded step to do so before voting on this critical issue.

The ‘Yes’ case is receiving massive financial support, the ‘No’ camp gets nothing, just vilification.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine are genuine Indigenous people with superior knowledge of all Indigenous issues.

They know who among their people are peddling divisive self-interest agendas and assert that the ‘Voice to Parliament’ would be racially divisive and destructive; their comments are on several YouTube clips.

Senator Price spoke on ABC “News Breakfast” on June 22, accessible on iView.

Her recent speech in the Senate was brilliant and a ‘must see’.

Lorne Campbell, Tarrawingee

Response to letter on Kelly facts

I REFER to the letter from Brad Williams (Wangaratta Chronicle, June 30, 2023).

On April 15, 1878, Constable Alexander Fitzpatrick was to take up residence at the Greta Police Station which had been left unmanned for six days

On his way from Benalla he detoured from the route to Greta.

Constable Fitzpatrick, full of drink, rode to the Kelly homestead situated at 11 Mile Creek undercover of the guise of executing a warrant for the arrest of Ned’s brother Dan Kelly.

This became known as the “Fitzpatrick affair’’.

Ned’s mother, Ellen, struck Fitzpatrick over the head with a fire shovel and dented his helmet.

The following day, Ellen Kelly was arrested and charged with the attempted murder of Fitzpatrick and remained on remand.

Ex-Constable Fitzpatrick from the distance of old age told one journalist: “Considering his environment, he [Kelly] was a superior man. He possessed great natural

6 Which song by the Bee Gees starts with the words, “I know your eyes in the morning sun”?

(a) Stayin’ Alive

(b) How Deep Is Your Love

(c) More Than a Woman

(d) Run to Me

7 Nyanja, also known as Chewa, is a widely spoken language in parts of which continent?

(a) Africa

(b) Asia

(c) South America

(d) North America

8 Which team knocked Manchester City out of the 2021-22 FA Cup tournament?

(a) Crystal Palace

(b) Liverpool

(c) Chelsea

(d) Southampton

9 Cytology is the branch of biology that studies the structure and function of what?

(a) Nerves

(b) Blood

(c) Cells

(d) Bone

10 In which country could you drive across the Laguna Garzón Bridge, famous for its unusual circular shape?

(a) Uruguay

(b) Bolivia

(c) Colombia

(d) Paraguay

MAGICAL MUSICAL: A musical adaption of the much-loved picture book, The Gruffalo’s Child, is coming to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on July 20 and 21. The show brings together physical theatre, music and puppetry to deliver songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged three and up and their adults. Presented by CDP Kids Tall Stories, seats are still available on Thursday, July 20 at 5pm and on Friday, July 21 at 1pm, with tickets at wpacc.com.au.

ability, and under favorable circumstances would probably become a leader of men in good society... “.

At Stringybark Creek, in the course of conversation with Constable McIntyre, Ned said “I will shoot no man if he gave up his arms and promised to leave the force” ... “I could have shot you half an hour ago when you were sitting on that log”.

At the committal hearing the surviving police officer at Stringybark Creek, Const McIntyre, was not prepared to swear that Sergeant Kennedy or indeed any member of the police party had in their possession, any warrants for the arrest of the Kelly Gang.

The Royal Commission finally made its first report at the end of 1881.

It blamed most of the senior policemen.

The Glenrowan Siege was and is one of the most important historical events in our history.

The memory of all of those swept up in

the events of June 1880 should never be forgotten.

To best encapsulate what had occurred is summarised by the following words: - “Next to a lost battle, nothing is so sad as a battle that has been won”.

John Suta, Wangaratta

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.

Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

Skin check initiative was well-supported

By SIMONE KERWIN

A RECENT skin check weekend hosted by Lions Club of Wangaratta proved popular and successful.

In a project supported by a $2100 Rural City of Wangaratta community grant, the Lions Club brought the Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation mobile skin check and awareness unit to Wangaratta in early May.

Steve Kazenwadel from Wangaratta Lions said 103 people were screened over the weekend, with any last minute cancellations easily replaced by walk-up enquiries.

As a result, 37 patients were referred by the

qualified dermoscopists for more extensive investigation, which is around the average of 40 per cent referrals from the unit statewide.

Volunteer staff came from Warrnambool, Wodonga, Park Orchards and Geelong.

Mr Kazenwadel said the Lions Club of Wangaratta was grateful for the grant provided by the rural city to support the volunteers.

The mobile unit has been running in Victoria for 12 to 18 months, originally in one of Victoria’s southern Lions districts, and has successfully operated in other places across the state, including Wodonga, Corryong and Rochester.

$2000 fine for fatal threats

A QUEENSLAND man who threatened to kill his former partner during a run-in at a football match in Wangaratta has been fined $2000 for his “aggressive” outburst earlier this year.

Facing Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, the 55-year-old pleaded guilty to threats to kill allegations stemming from an encounter with his ex-partner at a football game in April.

Police prosecutor Senior Consta-

ble Victoria Lennon said the accused had been subject to an indefinite no-contact family violence order when he attended the local match, and had been watching with his son when he spotted the victim walking towards their vehicle.

The accused was said to have lashed out immediately, and had to be forced back into his seat by his son while continuing to shout abuse at the victim.

The complainant ran to her own

vehicle and locked herself inside, while the accused’s son quickly drove the accused from the ground.

The defendant was later arrested at a Wangaratta venue, and told police during a record of interview he had wanted to “knock her out”.

“I’m a good man for not doing it years ago,” he told police.

“I wanted to punch her head in – she’s lucky my son was there, otherwise I would have.”

Defence counsel Samantha Little

The home of future you.

said her client had been under significant financial stress at the time of the offending, and had recently paid off a $20,000 child support debt. She said a further $9000 debt had been imposed on her client after the victim found out the accused had been working casually in Wangaratta while visiting his son in town.

According to Ms Little, the accused had been under the influence of alcohol during his record of interview, and had initially de-

nied making threats to kill before his son tendered a statement confirming the behaviour.

“In a moment of rage he said these awful things,” she noted.

“He’s not in any way proud of his actions.”

Magistrate Peter Dunn elected to convict the accused, and noted his conduct had occurred while surrounded by young people.

“It’s hardly a great example for the children,” he said.

CHECKING IN: Despite inclement weather, skin check sessions hosted by the Lions Club of Wangaratta were well-received.

Keep your recycling loose.

By putting your recycling in the bin loose and not in a plastic bag, it can be turned into new things like park benches and tables. A small act makes a big impact. Find out how at sustainability.vic.gov.au

Pursuit accused hit with $2500 fine

A DRIVER who led a high-speed chase through residential Wangaratta almost two years ago has been convicted and fined more than $2000 for her offending.

The 25-year-old appeared before Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, pleading guilty to charges including unlicenced and unregistered driving as well as driving dangerously, after evading police in an unregistered Audi sedan in November 2021.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon told the court officers had first identified the unregistered sedan parked at an Irving Street address, before observing it driving south along Greta Road.

The vehicle was said to have accelerated left onto Vincent Road, losing traction in the process, before accelerating along Perry, Bowser and McLeod streets before returning onto Perry Street, with police having

terminated their pursuit as a result of poor weather conditions.

The accused was later identified to have been driving the vehicle with two passengers, despite holding a disqualified probationary licence at the time.

In a separate incident, she was found in possession of a bag of methylamphetamine while walking near Perry Street in the early hours of March 26 last year, and was found to have breached a diversion plan by failing to attend a compulsory drug treatment appointment.

Defence counsel Marcel White said his client was diagnosed with a number of mental health disorders, including bipolar and schizophrenia, and had spent 43 days in custody in between her offending.

Magistrate Peter Dunn convicted and fined the accused a total of $2500, and ordered the seized drugs be destroyed.

GETTING READY: GOTAFE are a major sponsor of the Hands On Trade Career Expo and their industry and attraction team members Fiona Lawrence, Lola Tucker and Brendan White recently met with NE Tracks LLEN coordinators Mel Elliott and Annette Borradale to plan expo activities.

Gearing up for students’ careers expo

PREPARATIONS are well underway for the annual Hands On Trade Careers Expo to be held at Winton Raceway on August 10.

The annual expo attracts up to 1400 senior secondary school students from across the North East and Goulburn Valley, able to

meet with local businesses and gain some ‘hands on’ experience at their exhibits.

“Students attending the expo get to learn more about the career opportunities that business and industry provide in our region,” said NE Tracks LLEN CEO Tim Oliver.

“Demonstrating an activity at the expo often leads to work experience and other placements including school based apprenticeships.

“This is a great way for employers to make an initial connection with the workforce of the future”.

Delivered by NE Tracks LLEN with support from local sponsors and the Victorian Government’s Department of Education, businesses keen to register as an exhibitor and sponsor should can do so via the Hands On Trade Career Expo 2023 website by July 12.

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The latest book recommendations

With PAULINE MONCRIEFF, The Book Circle

THE June gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, June 14 and a variety of books were shared.

FICTION

 The Tales of Mr Walker; a hotel dog with a nose for adventure, by Jess Black

Four stories for children, about a delightful Guide Dog Ambassador, who lives at the Park Hyatt in Melbourne.

Mr Walker is a real dog, and still lives there.

 Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus

Elizabeth Zott, scientist, single mother and reluctant host of an evening cooking show on TV, decides to teach her audience some chemistry.

Described as ‘a feminist and empowering novel’, with much humour and some unforgettable supporting characters.

The film of the book is now streaming on Apple TV.

 The Collected Regrets of Clover, by Mikki Brammer

Mikki Brammer is an Australian journalist, currently based in New York.

She has written a heartwarming and uplifting novel about the work of a ‘death doula’, who ushers people peacefully into their last days.

A thought-provoking book, based around the taboo subjects of death and dying.

‘The secret to a beautiful death is to live a beautiful life’.

 The Nurses’ War, by Victoria Purman

This is a novel based on

true events.

In 1915, as World War I rages in Europe, Australian nurse Cora Barker leaves for England, determined to use her skill for king and country.

The Australian owners of a stately home, Harefield House, have donated it to the AIF to use as a hospital for wounded Australian servicemen.

Cora helps establish Harefield Hospital.

Matron Ethel Gray, who established the hospital in real life, makes an appearance in the novel.

Photographs of the nurses and Matron Gray are held at the Australian War Memorial.

Victoria Purman also wrote the novel The last of the Bonegilla girls.

 The Regeneration Trilogy, by Pat Barker

An anti-war trilogy comprising Regeneration, The eye in the door and The ghost road.

It covers real events and the fictionalised lives of real people during WWI. Recommended.

 Robin also recommended Goodby to All That, by Robert Graves, which deals with the same period.

 Turn a Blind Eye, by Jeffrey Archer

The third book in the series featuring William Warwick, who is now a Detective Inspector investigating corruption within the Metropolitan

Police Force.

The drug lord on trial from the previous book appears to better the justice system - or does he?

Major art works, either genuine or fake, continue to move around at a rapid pace. Who owns them?

Good light entertainment.

 The Boys From Biloxi: a legal thriller, by John Grisham

The story of two young boys growing up in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1935.

One follows his father into the illegal gambling, prostitution and illegal drug business.

The other follows his father into law.

Good v. bad, which is typical Grisham.

The crooks win at first, with the help of corrupt law officials, but after a tragic event, good slowly gains the upper hand.

A good yarn; a pick up and put down book.

We Need to Talk About Kevin, by Lionel Shriver ‘A misguided and discordant story about a teenage killer’, said the Guardian review.

Other reviewers speak very highly of it.

The book focuses on a school massacre orchestrated by the boy.

 Eyrie, by Tim Winton

A confronting look at how we treat people at the margins of society.

Tom Keely looks down at life on the streets from his apartment on the 10th floor.

He has retired, hurt and angry, from society.

We are told that he is divorced and unemployed, but, infuriatingly, we are given no back-story, or any information at all on his previous life.

Despite this, the book is enjoyable.

It is at times funny,

to help them in times of illness.

The book was published in 1945, and a film based on the book was made in 1979.

 1956, by Nick Richardson

This was the year that the world came to Melbourne, ready or not, with the staging of the Melbourne Olympics.

There were many decisions and much preparation needed beforehand - where to have the main venue, the training of host families, quarantine requirements for horses coming for equestrian events, and much more.

The Games were held against a backdrop of the White Australia Policy, nuclear tests in the outback, the Suez crisis and the emergence of television.

This is a very informative and entertaining book, describing events which some of us will remember.

 The Indi Way, by Voices for Indi

confronting and haunting.

A highlight is the graphic and very realistic description of a hangover.

 Tiny Uncertain Miracles, by Michelle Johnston

A sweet, sad but somehow cheering novel about faith, love and the possibility of a miracle.

The author is an Emergency Physician at a large Perth hospital.

The story centres on Marick, who has had some grief in his life, and who becomes a hospital chaplain despite losing his faith in God.

He develops relationships with other marginalised characters who often go unnoticed.

An unexpectedly uplifting story.

NON-FICTION

 1947, when now begins, by Elisabeth Asbrink

Graphic descriptions of the devastation in Europe, coverage of the Nuremberg trials, George Orwell’s 1984, and major new developments that occurred in that year.

In Delhi, Sir Cyril Radcliffe had 5 weeks to draw up a border between India and Pakistan.

He did no field research, knew nothing about India, and made an arbitrary decision that affected the lives of 88 million people.

 Christ Stopped at Eboli, by Carlo Levi

Levi was a left-wing dissident opposed to Italy’s fascist government.

He was sent into internal exile in the most povertystricken and backward area in the south of Italy.

He describes the hardships faced by the peasants in the region.

He had medical training, but had not practised, yet many of the people sought him out as the only one able

How a rural community sparked a social and political movement.

 Well Done, Those Men, by Barry Heard

An autobiography.

The author grew up in Ringwood, and at the age of 20 was called up for military service, and sent to Vietnam. He saw many troubling sights, with casualties on both sides.

The experience aged him and changed him forever, and he suffered badly with PTSD.

For many years he only felt comfortable with his army mates.

In 1995 he was admitted to Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

Barry was unable to work for some time because of his terrible experiences, and so he wrote the book.

 The World Played Chess, by Rober Dugoni

A naive young man takes a job on a construction site and finds himself working alongside two Vietnam veterans. He gets the education of a lifetime!

 The Ballad of Abdul Wade, by Ryan Butta

The true story of Australia’s unsung pioneers, the outback camel drivers.

Abdul Wade was an Afghan entrepreneur who brought camels to Australia to deliver goods to outback areas beyond the train lines, crossing harsh, rocky plains that horses and wagons were unable to traverse.

 Survival in Auschwitz, by Primo Levi

The author describes his time in Auschwitz concentration camp, as a 25-year-old chemist. His life was saved by a friend, who gave Levi part of his ration.

Christ stopped at Eboli, by Carlo Levi

The tales of Mr Walker; a hotel dog with a nose for adventure, by Jess Black hrist at Carlo Levi

The tales of Mr a hotel dog with a nose for

Update lifts Rossini classic, The Barber of Seville, at WPACC

OPERA Australia is about to embark on its 27th annual national tour, with Gioachino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville opening in Sydney next week, before a two month tour which visits Wangaratta on September 2.

Award-winning director Priscilla Jackman has updated the famous barber Figaro with a hipster moustache and a barber shop to match, while leading lady Rosina takes fate into her own hands to win in the game of true love.

The story has been set in the real-life Victorian town of Seville, and the nearby Yarra Valley wine region.

Join in NAIDOC celebration Sunday

VACCA Ovens Murray will host a NAIDOC 2023 ‘For Our Elders’ Wangaratta community gathering at GOTAFE Wangaratta on Sunday, July 9 from 1pm until 4pm.

There will be a range of cultural activities including boomerang painting and throwing, weaving and dilly bag-making, with fun stalls, games, face painting and a free community barbecue, along with music by Yorta Yorta musician, Madi Colville.

Come along and enjoy the Clothing the Gap walk along the Bullawah Cultural trail at Apex Park Wangaratta leaving at 12.15pm, with the community gathering to begin after the walk.

Jazz in July at The Vine

THE High Society Jazz Orchestra will present a Christmas in July concert at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Saturday, July 29.

Warm up with a festival celebration, with the 11-piece outfit to play from 8pm with tickets available now at thevinehotel. net.au.

yourstars

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You are self-reliant and rarely ask anyone for help. But this time, you might want someone you trust to be there for you while you deal with a difficult matter. Cheer up. Things improve soon.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your patience begins to pay off. Look for the first sign that your goals are in plain sight. Also, take time out from all your hard work for some fun with someone special.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) There could be some lingering effects from a recent setback. But it’s all for the best, as you’re now beginning to appreciate. Use the lessons you’ve learned to start over.

This contemporary Australian spin brings fresh energy and vibrancy to one of the world’s most loved operas.

The cast comprises some of Opera Australia’s finest singers and musicians; sopranos Esther Song and Cathy-Di Zhang will reprise their shared the role of Rosina, tenor Shanul Sharma, who recently wowed audiences in his five star depiction of Gandhi in Philip Glass’ Satyagraha at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall, will share the role of Count Almaviva with John Longmuir, and baritones Christian Haotian Qi and Andrew Williams will share

The Robertson Brothers 60’s Variety TV Show

AUSTRALIA’s new ‘Kings of Variety Television’, the Robertson Brothers, are back in 2023 with a brand new show which visits the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday night.

Geoff and Ben Robertson will be the charming hosts for a nostalgic night of entertainment as they pay tribute to the musical giants of the 1960’s - The Bee Gees, Simon and Garfunkel, Roy Orbison, Cliff Richard and The Shadows, Frankie Valli, The Everly Brothers, Neil Sedaka and The Seekers.

Also featuring Simon Brook McLachlan and Dean Bourne, enjoy a theatrical TV experience filled with all the fun, music and memories of the fabulous sixties, with the show starting at 8pm and tickets available at wpacc.com.au.

the role of the famous barber, Figaro.

Taking opera out of the major cities and into regional areas remains an imperative part of the company’s annual program, says Opera Australia CEO, Fiona Allan.

“Priscilla Jackman has created a playful new production of The Barber of Seville and the cast features some of our most experienced performers as well as some exciting up and coming stars,” she said.

“Opera Australia remains dedicated to bringing worldclass performances to audiences across the nation, aiming

The Beggars sing The Seeker matinee show

SEE a show which celebrates The Seekers; four young Australians with a dream they followed to the pop music world, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on August 4.

The Beggars sing The Seekers follows The Seekers story from the Melbourne cafe scene in 1962 to London, the swinging center of the pop universe, culminating in their 1968 BBC TV special Farewell The Seekers watched by millions.

Featuring hits including “I’ll Never Find Another You”, “The Carnival is Over”, “Morningtown Ride” and “Georgie Girl”, alongside The Beggar’s originals and rollicking standards, the show starts at 10.30am and tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.

to increase access to live performance and to inspire new generations to take the stage through the ongoing Regional Children’s Chorus program.”

Opera Australia is also engaging in a variety of workshops and programs with local communities at each place the tour visits, which it says is an important step in introducing new audiences to the world of opera.

See The Barber of Seville at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, September 2 at 7.30pm, with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.

Flirtation with Abstraction by Frank Burgers

A NEW exhibition called Flirtation with Abstraction featuring the work of artist Frank Burgers is coming to Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday.

Flirtation with Abstraction explores the local artist’s interest in abstraction.

Working with planes of flat colour and structural line, Burgers’ keeps his visual language consistent in response to his immediate environment and experience, whether capturing representation or figurative scenes.

The exhibition will run from July 8 to August 13, with an official opening by Beechworth Contemporary artistic director Nina Machielse Hunt on Saturday, 15 July from 2pm.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) What seemed to be a difficult goal to reach is now -- or soon will be -- all yours. Congratulations. An unexpected travel opportunity holds an intriguing new prospect.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A chilly reception to your presentation shouldn’t cause you to abandon your ideas. Instead, do tweak up those weaker parts and then, once again, show them what you have.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22)

Hiding your feelings might make you feel safer against rejection. But this could be the time when you’ll need to speak up or risk losing out on an important event in your life.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)

Some co-workers might try to talk you out of accepting a promotion. But you need to follow your own instincts -- and if you believe you’re right for the job, then take it.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)

Some changes are in order, as you come to realize that you need to sort out several areas in your life. Your remarkable insight helps you make the right decisions.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) It’s time to act on your own behalf and separate yourself from those whose selfish needs threaten your personal and/or professional survival.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Resist your tendency to close yourself off from unpleasant situations. Instead, open up to how things are so that you can help change them to what they could be.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) An unspoken problem could be driving a deep wedge between you and that special person. Some honest talking between the two of you starts the healing process.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

You might feel you’ve been going around in ever-widening circles trying to deal with recent workplace problems. Lighten up. A successful end is finally in sight.

HIPSTER TWIST: Andrew Williams plays Figaro in Opera Australia’s 2022 National Tour of The Barber of Seville.

PHOTO: Jeff Busby

KING VALLEY NEWS

Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas

Moyhu soldier’s signature found etched in French cave

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

IN response to interest shown by Moyhu residents who caught the story on the nightly news, the Benalla Ensign has kindly shared its story about a remarkable local connection.

When Benalla’s Margaret Waters was visiting the town of Naours in Northern France she happened upon an etching in a cave made by a World War I soldier from Moyhu.

As part of a tour group interested in World War I history, Ms Waters visited Cite Souterraine de Naours, a man-made cave system near the town of Naours, which Australian soldiers would visit while convalescing in the nearby village.

Turning on the light on her phone, she saw an etching that jumped out at her, from over 3000 graffiti signatures which were embedded in the rock.

“We stumbled upon a signature written by a soldier from Moyhu,” she said.

“It was an incredible find, and it added a personal connection to the history we were exploring.”

On her return to Australia Ms Waters did some research and found records of a Private Archibald Patterson from Myrrhee, Victoria, who had lived in Moyhu.

He served as a Private in the 16th Australian Light Horse Brigade.

Eager to find out if Mr Patterson had any relatives living in the area she contacted the Benalla

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host an in-house movie (‘Mouse Hunt’) at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, today from 1.30pm.

The club will host indoor carpet bowls from 12 noon tomorrow (Thursday), cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

Breakfast will be held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Friday from 8am.

Next Wednesday, the club will host bingo at the clubrooms from 1.30pm.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.

All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480, Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062 or Marlene O‘Keefe on 0417 454 126.

COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am.

Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.

WANGARATTA Newcomers will hold their next gathering on Thursday, July 6 from 2pm to 3.30pm at Intermezzo Café, Wangaratta.

Join the group for a cuppa, a chat and to meet some new people.

For more information, phone Joy on 0401 843 815 or Ann on 0435 275 864.

WANGARATTA Garden Club will hold its next meeting on Thursday, July 6 from 1.30pm, in the Seventh Day Ad-

LOCAL CONNECTION: Fred Foster, William “Bill” Forge and Archibald “Archie” Patterson, pictured circa 1916. They are each captured on the Myrrhee State School honour board. PHOTO: Supplied by Robyn Whitty/ Virtual War Memorial Australia

MADE TO LAST: A photograph of Archibald Patterson’s signature, recently discovered in a French cave by Benalla resident, Margaret Waters.

PHOTO: Courtesy Margaret Waters/Benalla Ensign

Ensign and a photo of the etching was published.

Within a few days the Ensign was contacted by Curl Symes, Archibald Patterson’s grandson.

“I never knew my grandfather, he was killed when my mum was only one year old,” Mr Symes said.

“Mum never knew him, and I never knew him, so it was a bit of a shock to see his name in the paper.

“It was actually my daughter who saw it and told me - so we did a bit of research and found out it was certainly him.

“I went to the Australian War Memorial and there are 26 pages on him - all his service, and injuries, where he went.

“He spent about two-and-a-half years in France, which is when he must have etched his name in the cave.

“To find it after 100 years, it must have been etched in pretty well.”

ventist Church Hall in Phillipson Street.

Guest speaker will be John, a local apiarist. Afternoon tea will be served on conclusion of the meeting. All welcome.

VACCA Ovens Murray will host a NAIDOC Week event at GOTAFE Wangaratta campus in Docker Street on Sunday, July 9 from 1pm to 4pm. The community gathering will feature a free community barbecue and entertainment.

VETERAN and family morning tea is held at the Wangaratta RSL on the second Tuesday of each month, with the group’s next catch-up scheduled for Tuesday, July 11 from 10am to 11.30am. All ex-service personnel and families are welcome to attend. For further information, phone 0447 217 768.

NEURODIVERSE Peer Support Group will hold its next fortnightly meeting, commencing term three, on Thursday, July 13 from 6.30pm to 8pm at Kids Plus, 47 Ryley Street (next door to Watermarc).

For more information, contact Deb on 0490 286 968.

WANGARATTA Cake Decorators meet every third Saturday of the month at Galen College in Phillipson Street from 10.30am.

Their next meeting is on July 15, and will feature Pam Archibald demonstrating a chocolate collar and truffles on a cake. Everyone welcome, cost for the day is $15 members or $20 non-members. BYO lunch and mug.

Phone Jeanie on 0439 087 630 for more information.

King Valley CWA meeting next week

THE next meeting of the King Valley CWA will be held on Tuesday, July 11 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve at 6.30pm.

All local women are welcome to join in with RSVP and enquiries to Mary on 0427 404 411.

King Valley Arts film club screening

THE next movie to be shown by the King Valley Arts Film Club at the Cheshunt Hall cinema will be the 1959 comedy classic Some Like It Hot starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon.

It will be held on Tuesday, July 11 with doors open at 7pm and the film starting at 7.30pm (BYO drinks and snacks with popcorn and ice creams for sale).

Mr Symes said when his grandfather returned from the war the family lived in Melbourne where he was a shunter on the railways. Unfortunately he was run over and killed by a train (in 1926, aged 35, which is when his wife and kids relocated to Benalla.

“That’s why we were all brought up here,” Mr Symes said.

“He has some more grand-kids still in Benalla - Geoff Patterson and Kaylene Patterson are still in the area.”

Ironically Mr Symes had been looking into taking a river cruise in Northern France for the past 12 months and said this might be the catalyst to make that happen, to see his grandfather’s name.

According to the Virtual War Memorial Australia, Archibald (Archie) Patterson was the son of William Henry Emmerson Patterson and Maria Frances Read.

SOCIAL CALENDAR

WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

Play begins at 8am. New players welcome. Morning tea provided –please bring your own cup.

For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.

WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street. New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.

GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.

The competition runs until 3.30pm–4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.

COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 12.30pm.

Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For further information, phone club president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.

Archie’s family had moved to Myrrhee around 1889, settling first at “Bella Vista” on Mt Bellevue, before moving to Wallacedale on the Boggy Creek at Myrrhee in about 1908.

Bill Forge and Archie served with the 37th Battalion in the same company, and transferred to the 59th Battalion, where both were promoted to Lance Corporal.

They returned home to Australia together, and soon after, Archie married Bill’s sister Mabel and Bill married Archie’s sister Liz. While serving in France, Archie was recommended for an American Distinguished Service Medal “for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.”

It is quite amazing for Margaret Waters to have stumbled upon his signature, still clear as day to see, over 100 years and 10,000 miles away from home.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of the month for a relaxed day of sit, sew and chat, from 10am to 3pm at the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club, off the river end of College Street. Contact Colleen on 0427 221 138.

A NEW croquet club has started at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park.

The group plays on Sunday afternoons, Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings, equipment supplied. For more information, contact Anne on 0490 173 169.

WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue. New string and wind players are welcome to come along to rehearsals to try out.

For more information, email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Chloe on 0413 775 027.

WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present).

The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7pm to 8.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome.

For more information, contact Bevan on 0437 196 118 or Les on 0412 250 674.

OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to

The film club screen six movies a year on the second Tuesday (bimonthly) and membership is $40 per person, with forms available on the night, or by visiting kingvalleyarts. com.au/film-club/.

King Valley country images calendar

PHOTOGRAPHERS are encouraged to get their entries in for the next King Valley Country Images calendar, with captivating images of the local scenery, farm life, flora and fauna all welcome.

Parents and friends of the Whitfield and District Primary School are in the process of preparing the 2024 calendar which is a major fundraiser for the school.

Submit one or more images to kvcountryimages@gmail.com along with your name and the title of the image, before the closing date of Friday, July 28, with successful contributors to be contacted.

9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta.

New members are welcome to join this enthusiastic and welcoming group of singers. For more information, contact Helen on 0457 269278.

LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

Lifeball is a non–contact game of netball, designed by a doctor and physio for the safety of mature players, with no running, walking backwards or throwing high balls, but enjoying fun and friendship. For more information, phone 0418 574 404.

WANGARATTA AL–Anon Family Group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick‘s Hall in Ford Street.

All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else‘s drinking, this group may be for you. Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828.

WANGARATTA Toastmasters conducts its meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street.

For more information, contact Leah Walker at leahwalka@gmail.com

• TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au

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EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

Advertising Account Manager (Full-Time)

Wangaratta Chronicle is looking for a driven and committed individual to join the advertising team at our office in Wangaratta.

If you can always see an opportunity and enjoy the idea of helping businesses grow, then we want to talk to you. To be successful in this role you will be able to demonstrate

Excellent work ethic, organisational skills & attention to detail with a drive to achieve results.

An ability to communicate with a wide range of people across various industries. Create innovative business proposals, develop collaborative partnerships and provide excellent customer service both internally and externally.

Taking over an established client list, you will be selling advertising and digital marketing opportunities to existing clients while looking to drive new business opportunities.

An ability to develop and maintaining business relationships will be the key to your success in this role.

An attractive remuneration package is offered including a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.

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Please forward your application and covering letter to Ian Pople Sales Manager at the Wangaratta Chronicle, ipople@nemedia.com.au

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FUNERAL DIRECTORS

BROWN, Maureen (June).

29/6/1933 – 30/6/2023

Passed away peacefully at Bowmans Forest.

And I saw the river Over which every soul must pass, To reach the kingdom of heaven And the name of that river was suffering. And I saw the boat Which carries souls across the river, And the name of that boat Was love.

- St John of the Cross. Beloved matriarch to her family. Her friendship a privilege and inspiration to many.

Funeral to be held

Saturday, July 8, 1pm at Creswick Cemetery. Donations in lieu of flowers to: https://vnpa.org.au/support/gifts-in-memory

“Prepare the expedition!” ~ Cecily.

PRATT, Len, Uncle Len.

Passed away peacefully 2/7/2023.

We’ll miss you.

~ Love from Heather and Grace xx

PRATT, Len.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and neighbour Len Pratt.

Our love and condolences go out to Ann, Mark and family.

~ From Kaye, Paul and Cathy

TULLY, Patrick John.

1/3/1935 - 1/7/2023

Passed away at Goulburn Valley Health. Late of Shepparton formerly of Benalla and Wangaratta.

Loved Husband of Betty (dec). Kaye (dec) and Jean for the last 33 years. Loving father of Wayne, Chris (dec) and Julie. Loved Grandad of William.

FUNERALS

MUNRO, Clare.

It is with great sadness that Open Door Neighbourhood House acknowledges the passing of our friend, valued volunteer and respected committee member, Clare Munro. In the short time that Clare had been with us, she made an incredible impact on our organisation. She made herself available for any job and was so generous in all her ways. Her sense of humour, her tips on gardening, and her positive outlook will be dearly missed. We will acutely feel the loss of her brightness, that came through each time she was at the house. There was no limit to her kind acts and her cheekiness. Rest easy now Clare. We send our thoughts to John, her family, and her friends at this sad time.

From everyone at Open Door.

PRATT, Lenden (Len).

1/12/1940 – 2/6/2023

Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta. Dearly loved husband of Ann. Father of Mark and father-in-law of Gail.

Proud Poppy Len of Josh, Emily, and Adam. xx

Lenny will be at rest in the hills of home in Eldorado.

Memories will never fade.

PRATT, Len.

We are very saddened to hear that our brother-in-law and uncle passed away. Len was a big part of our lives and leaves us with special memories shared over many years. Rest in peace Len.

~ Much love Fay, Rhonda and families xx.

Remember your loved one in a lasting way

The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community.

Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.

Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Family and friends are invited to attend the graveside service for Mr Lenden “Len” Pratt to be held at the Eldorado Cemetery on Friday July 7, 2023, commencing at 10.30am. Len’s service will be livestreamed and can be viewed at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

TULLY

A service to celebrate the life of Patrick John Tully will be held at Kittle Bros Funeral Home, 7986 Melbourne Road, Shepparton on Friday, July 7 commencing at 12 noon. After which the cortege will leave for the Pine Lodge Lawn Cemetery. No flowers by request, donations in lieu to the Heart Foundation. Envelopes available at the chapel. A livestream of the service will be available on our website www.kittlebrothers.com.au

SHEPPARTON 5821 2108

Personal Notices

PRATT

MATCHRESULTS

CHIP KICK: Logan Wilson hits a short kick into the corridor.

BALL CLEAR: Jack Ambrose manages to get the handball out.

WET CONDITIONS: Mud sprays as Cooper Bowman gets the kick off.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

RUN IT DOWN: William Pickett uses his speed to run the ball along the wing.

GATHER: Kieran Hope bends down to pick up the ball.

UNDER17SCOREBOARDUNDER14SCOREBOARDUNDER12SCOREBOARD

BEST: IMPERIALS: Angus Schultz, Mitchell Feldtmann, Charlie Maher, Dylan C Savage, Jed Marek, Mitchell Schultz. COLLEGE: Cashen Monk, Levi Smith, Nevada Monk, Jonah Massey-Chase, Brandon Harrison, Harry Cook. GOALS: IMPERIALS: Jed Marek 2, Dylan C Savage 2, Marshall Semmens 2, Archer Direen 1, Declan O’Sullivan 1, Max Startin

COLLEGE: None selected.

5.2 9.7 13.9.87

BEST: KANGAROOS: Cope Swinburne, Hamish Laverty, Jackson Jones, Jaxon Coleman, Curtis Hines, Ryley Downing. CENTRALS: Charlie Kerwin, Cody Johnson, Angus Jayet, Hunter Barry, Tyrone Baxter, Hayden Currie. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Ryley Downing 2, Bay Pellegrino 2, Cope Swinburne 2, Edward Clayton 1, Jackson Jones 1, James McLaughlin 1.

CENTRALS: Charlie Kerwin 5, Cody Johnson 3, Hunter Barry 1, Cooper

Boman 1, Angus Jayet 1, Jack Lockhart 1, Bailey Paul 1.

Benalla Giants 6.6 7.11 13.13 17.20.122

Bright

BEST: BENALLA GIANTS: Owain Boyle, Xavier Wapling, Anakin

Pastuszka, Josh Stacey, James Ferguson, Mitchell Cooney. BRIGHT: Cade McGregor, Zac Bradley, Angus Murrells, Jack Thomson, Noah

McMonagle, Tom Russell. GOALS: BENALLA GIANTS: Owain Boyle

4, Josh Stacey 4, Mitchell Cooney 3, Xavier Wapling 3, Josh Hart 1, Logan Hyland 1, Josh Mathieson 1. BRIGHT: Jayden Eastwood 1, Cade

McGregor 1, Lee Robinson 1.

Myrtleford 2.6 3.8 4.10 4.13.37

Mansfield 1.0 3.3 5.4 5.4.34

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Taj Cooper, Samuel Crisp, Jake Skahill, Cooper

Howden, Thomas Morgan, Oscar Benson. MANSFIELD: Trent Berry, Edwin Morphett, Astin Browning, River Reeve, Samuel Guppy, Jack

Marks. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Oscar Benson 1, Adam Morgan 1, Jock

Pascoe 1, Jake Skahill 1. MANSFIELD: None selected.

Bulldogs vs Tigers - pending

BEST: BENALLA BULLDOGS: Billy Dyer, Mason Butterworth, Jobe Stovell, Kobi Thwaites, Jye Mathieson, Jackson Fry. TIGERS: Riley Webb, Xavier Dodgshun, Archie Turner, Nate O’Keefe, Thomas Jones, Marlon Togolo. GOALS: BENALLA BULLDOGS: Ryder Humphries 2 TIGERS: Riley Webb 9, Mac Correll 5, Hugh Sharp 2, Jaxon Wickham 2, Mitchell Benton 1, Nate O’Keefe

BEST: IMPERIALS; Lenny Campbell, Kade Ely, Max Marek, Beau Benton, Aiden Sibraa, Oskar McGahan. COLLEGE: Lenny Sims, Harrison Bowman, Hudson McKenzie, Sam Reid, Jiordan Ivone, Cooper Bowman. GOALS: IMPERIALS: Archer Direen 2, Aiden Sibraa 2, Harry Allen

BEST: BENALLA BULLDOGS: Ryan White, Joshua Montgomery, Charlie Bell, Oliver Wardill, Ben Wells, Thomas Lewis. TIGERS: Hugh Sharp, Ollie Fisher, Blake Kantor, Mia Simpson, Austin Whitehead, Logan Benton.

Joshua Bamford

IMPERIALS: Samuel K Savage, Reece Pearson, Beau Letica, Nate Matthews, Logan Wilson. COLLEGE: Jack Tonkin, Tate Llewellyn, Luke Pensak, Cooper Bowman, Tom Hill, Kieran Hope. GOALS:

Samuel K Savage 3, Gus Marek 2, Tom Benton

Thomas Fieldew

Beau Benton 1, Isaac Robinson 1. COLLEGE: Lenny Sims

Kyle Tonkin 1.

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Cooper Clark, Connor Littel, Cooper Webster, Cooper Cassidy, Lukas Cannata, Harry Allan. MANSFIELD - YELLOW: No best players have been selected. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Cooper Cassidy 3, Harry Allan 2, Cooper Clark 2, Joel McNeill 2, Cooper Webster 1. MANSFIELD - YELLOW: Zander Haslau

Xavier

Samuel Kain

BEST: KANGAROOS: Kieran White, Mitchell Murphy, Urban Holt, Archie Symons, Jamie Scheier, Lenny Harding. CENTRALS: Reid McNamara, Kaiden Wohlers, Solomon Steer, Dean Balfour, Milla Wallace, Connor Ormond. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Archie Symons 2, Alasdair Brett 1, Billy Hiskins 1, Urban Holt 1, Eamon Mullins 1. CENTRALS: Solomon Steer 4, Ryan Parsons

BEST: KANGAROOS: Noah Gigliotti, Jack Pople, Maddox Coleman, Jayden Foster, Cody Willoughby, Harry Edwards. CENTRALS: Samuel Elkington, Archie Knobel, Sonny Gales, Angus Fraser, Dallas Ring, Dusty Hogarth. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Harry Edwards 1, Jack Pople 1, Luca Solimo 1. CENTRALS: Dusty Hogarth 2, Sonny Gales 1, Archie Knobel 1, Harvey Muraca 1, Dallas Ring

BEST: BENALLA GIANTS: Samuel Mount, Jack Hart, Jude Binion, Noah Cooney, Harry Bast, Angus Leavold. BRIGHT: Cameron Wood, Harris Bruneau, Jai Gribble, Ben McConnachie, Campbell Nightingale, Oliver Kelly. GOALS: BENALLA GIANTS: Jude Binion 2, Jack Hart 1, Cash Nolen 1 BRIGHT: Jai Gribble 1, John Oswin 1.

BEST: MYRTLEFORD - BLACK: Noah Harris, Blake Parolin, Billy McMahon, Xavier Millar, Zahra Hazeldine. MYRTLEFORD - RED: Sam Lupo, Milla Corcoran, William Koers, Orlando Hunkin, Jake Jennings, Claye Corcoran. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD - BLACK: Nash Durling 1, Xavier Millar 1, Hunter Szaraszek 1 MYRTLEFORD - RED: Sam Lupo 4, Benji

UNDER17LADDERUNDER14LADDERUNDER12LADDER

Wolfpack men a cut above the rest

By WILLSON MACK

ROUND 11 of The Storm Murray Goulburn Cup saw local club RLFC The Wolfpack take to the field in Baranduda on Sunday facing off against Corowa Cougars in an exciting match for both the men’s and women’s teams.

The Wolfpack ladies league tag team fell short to the Cougars 14-

22 in a fast-paced game.

While the men’s tackle team defeated top of table Corowa in what was the match of the round.

The Wolfpack were trailing by 14 points with 10 minutes on the clock but they turned up the heat, scoring three late tries and a conversion to bring the score to 28-24 at the final whistle.

Defeating the Cougars has the Wolfpack men extend

their winning streak to five consecutive games.

“I’m beyond proud of this team, a sweet victory, my boys know what our end goal is and we are still taking it week by week,” captain/ coach Newy Patiole said.

The Wolfpack face off against arch rivals Wangaratta Knights this Sunday in Corowa.

Another match not to be missed.

READY UP: Eager round ball enthusiasts of all abilities from ages six-16 are preparing to show a taste of their talents at the Galen Catholic College’s Liverpool International Academy community day this Friday. Clinics ran by Liverpool Academy accredited coaches will run from 9am-3pm, with two 30 minute sessions each for under six-eight, under nine-11 and under 12-16 age groups. Pictured at the Liverpool Academy announcement in May, Dermot Mitchell, Samantha Scott, Johannah McLaughlin, Sammy Cairns, Hugh Aggenbach, Luca D’Agostino, Chloe Peacock and Patrick Hill. Registration is still available for all grades via the Liverpool International Academy Australia website.

NEW DESIGN: A grade netball coach Ebony Allen and senior football coach Riley Calvene in the club’s new NAIDOC Week outfits.

Lions don

NAIDOC jumpers

SATURDAY saw Whorouly’s footballers and netballers debut their new NAIDOC Week playing outfits.

Designed by Shepparton-based Koorie artist Rebecca Atkinson, each element carries significance to the area and the club.

“With ‘Whorouly’ meaning ‘under the water’, the bottom section is the water with a platypus as the chosen animal as it’s the totem of the Bangerang people within the area,” the club wrote on their Facebook page.

“The circle design is the families involved within the club - there are different sections within the circle showing everyone coming together, as a player, as a volunteer, as a supporter and as a committee member.”

The club hopes to use the jumpers and dresses during NAIDOC Week for the next three years.

Devils draw 1-1 in return

WANGARATTA City’s return from a 28-day spell wasn’t as successful as they would have hoped.

Taking on St Pat’s at Alexandra Park, the Devils could only grind out a 1-1 draw against the lastplaced outfit.

With the match scoreless at halftime, Wangaratta City’s 15-year-old rising star Archer Hill scored his first goal in the 49th minute to give his side the lead.

But it was Paddies’ Josh Staebner who responded, finding a goal in the 79th minute to lock the game up and that would be how it ended.

Wangaratta coach Raff Molinaro said the result was a by-product of a strange past few weeks.

“A result like this has been in the back of my mind after coming from three weeks off,” Molinaro said.

“Not being able to use our facilities properly along with the three weeks off probably caught up to us on Sunday.

“We started well and the boys looked like they wanted to win but we just ran out of legs at the end and our shooting was a bit off all day.”

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

“We can blame the circumstances all we want but at the end of the day we needed the whole team to step up and we didn’t.”

Despite the loss, Molinaro found positives to take away.

“Raul Pahina played his first game back in a few weeks which was great, he’s starting to look fit again,” he said.

“It was also great to see 15-year-old Archer Hill come on in the second half and score his first senior goal.

“His goal got the boys up and about but unfortunately St Pat’s got on the counter attack and we conceded a weak goal which was probably because of the rustiness.”

The Devils now turn their attention to their clash with Albury Hotspurs at home who sit just a win behind them.

“We’ve got a few games at home now so hopefully we can capitalise on them,” Molinaro said.

WINDING UP: Vitaly Leschen sends a long ball forward.

BREAK FREE: Joel Van Der Leuuw tries to break away from his opponent.

DRAW: Raul Pahina and Wangaratta City drew 1-1 with St Pat’s at Alexandra Park on Sunday. PHOTOS: Kat De Naps Photography

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

TOO STRONG: Fili Fili breaks through Cougars’ defence.

Family outing at Tarrawingee

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

TARRAWINGEE sharp shooter Kaylee Allan is having an outstanding season. She leads the Ovens and King Netball League A grade competition in goals with 624 at 83 per cent accuracy, already eclipsing her total last year by some 100 goals.

In fact, she is responsible for all but 51 goals for Tarrawingee this season.

The sturdy defence led by sister and last year’s Fay Morgan Medal winner Tegan ‘Tig’ White, Noni Mallichan and Em Te Tai, along with Allan’s form in goals has the Dogs sitting in second with just the one loss to Milawa so far in 2023.

Kaylee said her role has been made easier with the strong chemistry that has been built throughout the team this year, which has them excelling on the court.

“I think we’re just a close knit team and we enjoy playing netball together, most of us have played together for a few years now and it’s good to know what others are going to be thinking on the court and have a rough idea of how things are going to go,” she said.

“We work well as a team, the combinations we have are working, it’s a group effort and I’m just the one that gets to score at the end of it.”

This is Kaylee’s 15th season under the ring for the Dogs, having started with the club as a teenager.

“My sister started playing for Tarra and I just followed her,” she said.

“They put me into A grade when I was 16 and

it was just a good group of girls to play with so I kind of just stayed there.”

Kaylee said the family feeling at the club enables her to play freely on the court.

“I know I have the support of my team and I don’t feel the pressure because if I do miss they will try their best to get it back; it’s only my sister playing in defence I’m disappointing,” she laughed.

“My husband [Jaden] played out there as well; The kids have got a few hand me downs they like to wear… nice weathered supporters.

“It’s a family aspect [of the club] that everyone’s nice to be around and makes it a fun and enjoyable experience.”

When not being a mother to her young daughters Mikayla and Isabel off the court with husband of four years Jaden, Kaylee can be seen at Johnsons MME accounting services in Wangaratta’s Chisholm Street office.

Tarrawingee will play Milawa following their bye this week, in a game which could cement their position in the much coveted top-two, with reigning pre-

miers Greta close behind.

Kaylee said the competition this year has been notably stronger than recent years but has the belief her side can go one better than their surprise preliminary finals appearance last season.

“It’s been very close this year, Milawa and Greta are strong as always and we really look forward to those games,” she said.

“If we get back to basics we’ll be good, we didn’t have a great game against Milawa the last time we played them, hopefully next time we’ll step it up a bit.”

NORTH East

Bushrangers

Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria. North East

Bushrangers proudly supported Basketball Victoria’s Mental Health Round in June.  As well as players donning Basketball Victoria’s orange socks, the club raised an addition $1,508  by selling Bushies Lifeline shirts and donating $5 per 3 point shot made for the round.

EYES ON THE PRIZE: Kaylee Allan is leading the league in goals this O&K season with 556 at a high 83 per cent accuracy.

PHOTO: Nathan De Vries

TALENT ALL-ROUND: Kaylee Allan said daughters Mikayla (left) (3) and Isabel (1) are coming around to the Tarrawingee colours as she goes to work under the ring on Saturday with the O&Ks most goals in A grade this season.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Wangaratta’s class shines over Dogs

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA A grade netballers got the perfect lead-in to this weekend’s grand final rematch with a 32-goal win over Wodonga at Martin Park on Saturday.

The Magpies’ class outshone the struggling Bulldogs, leading from the get go to win by a convincing 68-36 margin.

Amanda Umanski played her best game since her return, starring with 51 goals at nearly 81 per cent, while Amy Byrne was excellent in wing attack.

Wangaratta co-coach

Grady admitted after her side’s derby win that they were looking to control the ball more against Wodonga and she thinks her side achieved that.

“We controlled our pace and controlled the ball really well, we focused on hitting the circle and Amanda held really well and was a good target to feed into,” Grady said.

“Amy Byrne was great through our midcourt, she worked really well alongside sister Issy (Newton) and Amanda was really unstoppable.”

Umanski and Byrne were both named in the Magpies best, alongside defender

Brooke Pryse who was rock solid all day.

The Pies jumped to a 15goal lead at half-time and more than doubled that in an outstanding second half.

Georgia Clark and Kellie Keen both shot eight goals each, while for Wodonga Cassi Mathey and Lisa French netted 18 each.

The Magpies now turn their attention to a huge clash this weekend against Yarrawonga at Norm Minns Oval.

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers were brushed aside by the third-placed Wodonga Raiders.

Raiders had a huge nine goal lead by quarter time and continued their dominance to win 64-37 at WJ Findlay Oval.

Kelsie Wilson was once again a star in defence for the losing Rovers team, while Ava Koschitzke was excellent for the visitors

Wodonga Raiders’ star goal-circle in Taylor Donelan and Emily Stewart couldn’t be stopped, netting 34 and 30 goals respectively.

Sami Kretlszheim (26 goals) and Rebecca Kreltszheim (11) made up the Hawks’ total.

Rovers travel to play Lavington this Saturday.

Blues fend off Bats, Bulldogs bury Bright

AS the second half of the Ovens and King netball season gathers momentum, teams across the region are vying to pick up critical victories to secure their space in finals.

Last year’s A grade premiers, Greta, were pushed to the brink at Goorambat, with the Bats downed 43-33.

The Bats were in the contest all match, trailing by five goals by quarter time before the Blues pushed it out to eight by the long break.

Accurate shooting by Goorambat’s Alison Ellis (82.35 per cent for the match) kept the margin from blowing out too much, but in the end, Greta’s experience and skill shone threw to keep the Blues in the top three.

Tarrawingee picked up a percentage boost with a crushing 81-15 win over Bright.

The Bulldogs were in control for the match, limiting Bright to just six

goals to half-time while piling on 45 of their own.

Kaylee Allan scored the majority of Tarrawingee’s goals, finishing with 68 at an accuracy of 85 per cent.

Whorouly also had a dominant game in the shooting circle, defeating Benalla All Blacks 81-30.

Elsewhere, Bonnie Doon pushed out an even first quarter scoreline to post a comprehensive 5127 victory.

The Bombers’ defensive structure clicked into place after quarter time, while Portia Keatch was immense in the role of goal shooter (34 goals at 91.89 per cent).

For the Hoppers, Holly Vincent and Zara Berry performed well together in the shooting ring, while Georgia Allen worked hard in goal keeper.

Milawa continued their undefeated season with a 69-34 win over King Valley, with shooter Emily Canny only missing two shots for the match.

REBOUNDING: Ash Farmer clears the ball from Bright’s defensive end.

PRESSURE: Tig White and Bright’s Jess Carnes battle it out.

OPTIONS: Maddie Canning feeds the ball into Tarrawingee’s attacking end.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

ON IT’S WAY: Briony Simpson sends a pass off in Wangaratta Rovers’ loss to Wodonga Raiders.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

QUICK PASS: Amy Byrne was excellent in the Magpies’ win.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

SHARP SHOOTER: Amanda Umanski lines up one of her 51 goals in Wangaratta’s big win over Wodonga on Saturday.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Corowa hat-trick for local trainers

■ From back page

The win was made even sweeter with Dale’s Turnaquid finishing second to make it a stable quinella.

“It was a good performance from Turnaquid,” Dale said.

“She was first-up after four or five months out, has only had one jump out and came back in 66 grade so she did really well.

“Mojo Music ran in the same race and was a bit dis-

appointing, she’s not jumping with the same positivity which is putting her on the back foot from the start.”

Corowa’s been a happy hunting ground for Dale with the local trainer striking at 17 per cent.

Along with Chairman’s Choice and Turnaquid, four-year-old mare Sheila finished third in race seven, while a number of his other nine runners finished within five lengths of the winner.

“All of our runners went okay I thought,” he said.

“Sheila was good again and I think the winner of that race (Imps) has some ability so for her to loom at the 250m was great but the winner was too good.

“On paper you’d look at Jahbath (10th in race six) and think he didn’t do too well but he only finished five lengths off them so he went okay as well.”

Dale’s next targets are

Sunday’s Wodonga meeting, followed by Albury on Tuesday but he won’t be holding his breath on those two race days going ahead.

“We want to go to Wodonga on Sunday and Albury on Tuesday, that’s what we’re planning for,” he said.

“But with the weather around you just don’t know if they’ll go ahead so we’ll have to wait and see.

“We then have Narrandera on the 16th.”

Rovers push Raiders all the way

UNDER 14

A CHILLY foggy morning turned into some perfect winter sunshine for the U14s game at home against the Wodonga Raiders.

Some illness and school holidays meant that numbers were down, but Rovers still managed to field a determined and enthusiastic team of 14 players.

The Raiders kindly loaned two players each quarter to help bring the numbers to a full squad for both teams.

Captain for the day was Lily Currie Fraser, who gave some great constructive feedback to the team at the quarter breaks.

The Rovers started really well, with some excellent contested work keeping the Raiders to just four points for the quarter.

Madi Boulton was working hard in the ruck, Amy Lowe was marking everything that came near her, and Hannah Carroll was our reliable anchor in the full back role.

In the midfield Paige-Lee Dummet, Mia Simpson, Lily Curry Fraser and Zara Mccrae were competing well for the football at every contest.

The second quarter saw the Raiders team take control of the game, scoring four goals in quick succession.

Game-play became a lot more even as the quarter progressed, and some great tackles and pressure acts were applied by several players including Tessa Koop, Lilias Coonan and Matilda Davies.

After the half-time break, the Rovers again fought hard, winning the ball forward on several occasions with some great work by Jasmine Fordham and Zara Blundell.

Ruby Newton took some excellent marks and ran

hard to follow up her own kicks into an almost empty forward 50 zone.

One of the best individual defensive efforts of the day came from Lizzy Healy, who sprinted 50 metres to cover a vacant goal square.

The final quarter saw the Rovers keep the Raiders to just three points - an awesome collective effort from the team to finish the game so strongly.

Rovers 0.1.1

Raiders 6.10.46

Game Day Awards: Amy Lowe, Paige-Lee Dummett, Mia Simpson, Lizzy Healy.

UNDER 17

FIRST quarter started off a bit slow, we let them kick a few quick goals before we

even blinked.

Halfway through the quarter we started to pick up our game and we started improving all around the ground.

The second quarter Rovers managed to slow the Raiders in their tracks.

The backline including Lucy Kiely, Alanna McKenna, Mak Clarke and new to defence Ammy Thompson were the rocks again.

Third quarter saw the Rovers shut the Raiders down, our tackles were starting to stick and we gave ourselves several opportunities at goal.

There was some great plays from the centre with Sarah Wenert, Amy Lowe and Charlotte Tilbrook get-

ting first touch and moving the ball forward.

There were also some great transitions from the backline giving Eliza Harding and Trinny Preer a chance on goal.

Fourth quarter the girls were spent, it’s a tough ask with no bench.

This allowed the Raiders to run away with a few more goals.

Thanks to the Under 14s who came up to help out.

Rovers 0.1.1

Raiders 12.16.88

Best players: Lucy Kiely, Alana McKenna, Ammy Thompson, Lily Gibb, Gemma Couch Trinder, Ruby Bihun.

OPEN WOMEN

WANGARATTA Rovers

Open Women’s team took

on Wodonga Raiders under lights Saturday night at WJ Findlay Oval, to round off a quadruple header between the two clubs.

The Hawks shot out of the blocks and were on the board first, thanks to a strong mark and goal by full forward De Plattfuss.

Despite controlling large passages of play in the first quarter, Rovers were unable to convert it into points, the Raiders rallied and had some luck go their way, finishing with two goals.

The second quarter went more the way of the visitors, who had their best quarter for the game, scoring 2.2 to take a 20 point lead into halftime.

After that it was all Rovers.

Down on rotations the Hawks’ players dug deep and players right across the ground were winning their head to head battles.

First gamers this year Ally Ballard and under 17 player Mackenzie Clark made a huge impact, winning plenty of ball and playing with presence and composure.

Meabh Donohoe had her best game of the season, winning the ball on the inside and bursting through tackles for fun.

Goals to Amy Collins (third quarter) and Chloe Kungl (fourth quarter) brought Rovers back to within striking distance, but desperate defence by Raiders, and extra players behind the ball, meant the visitors were able to hold on for the win.

Rovers 3.1.19

Raiders 5.3.33

Best players: Ally Ballard, Emma Gosbell, Ella Bradley, Meabh Donohoe, Bronwyn McGorlick, Sophie Boyle.

WINNER: Andrew Dale’s Chairman’s Choice won at Corowa on Monday.

PHOTO: Racing Photos

ONE TOUCH: Ammy Thompson takes a clean grab.

U14s.

PHOTOS: Kerri Grant

POWER PLAY: Hannah Carroll bursts clear for the Hawks

HAPPY SMILES

TARRAWINGEE

Hat-trick for locals

WANGARATTA trainers savoured a successful Corowa meeting with three local horsemen grabbing victories.

Andrew Dale, Ben Brisbourne and Craig

Weeding all returned winners from the seven race card on Monday afternoon.

Dale’s Chairman’s Choice ($12), Brisbourne’s Sheer Lunacy ($5.50) and Weeding’s Choice Harvest

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

($11) all saluted at valuable odds. It’s been a tough month for all trainers in the area with constant rain forcing a number of meetings to be abandoned and Dale echoed

those thoughts.

“I’m not sure how many meetings we’ve lost over the past month but I can name Corowa, Gundagai, Wagga and Wodonga off the top of my head,” Dale said.

“When you only have eight or nine runners a month because of the weather it’s tough.

“We’ve got a barn full of 20, 25 horses who are in

racing mode and can’t race but that’s where it’s at at the moment and it doesn’t look like the weather’s going to get much better.”

Chairman’s Choice has been unplaced this prep but relished the soft seven conditions in race five’s benchmark 66 (1000m) to return to the winners’ circle.

The seven-year-old gelding jumped from barrier one and

hoop Jack Martin settled off the leader on the rail before storming up the inside down the straight to win by nearly two lengths.

“We were probably a bit closer to the leader than we wanted but we thought Mitch Beer’s horse (Seventh Seal) would lead and he couldn’t get to where he wanted so it opened up for us and Jack (Martin) found

a spot behind the leader,” Dale said.

“It was Jack’s first day back after some time out and he was pleased to get a result which was great.

“He’s got a lot of talent as a jockey and he’s someone I’ve always liked, if he can find some rhythm he’ll ride plenty of winners around the area.”

■ Continued page 19

sharp shooter Kaylee Allan is happy on and off the court with daughters Mikayla (left) and Isabel bringing plenty of joy to her life.

■ Story: Page 17

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling