Chronicle Monday 060524

A MILLION PAWS FOR SAFE ANIMALS

A fight for agriculture

A SPECIAL motion at Wangaratta council, based on the State Government’s fast-tracking of solar facilities, has caused a stir between councillors.

Debate centred around the preservation of agricultural land against the adhoc positioning of renewable energy facilities and about reinstating the democratic right of people to appeal planning decisions on these facilities at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

The vote at the monthly council meeting was split three-all and decided by the mayor’s vote, with Crs Harvey Benton, Irene Grant and Dean Rees for the motion to advocate an action plan to appeal the current legislation that limits the community’s ability to contest a planning decision at VCAT.

Part two of the carried motion will also prompt council to ask the State Government to support the protection of agricultural land for food, fibre and viticultural production.

However, the motion was met strongly, with Cr Jack Herry contesting elements of the affirmative’s argument.

There were several calls for points of order as discussions on the topic were said to be over the time limit.

As a preamble to the

motion, Cr Benton read out the reasons being around the potential installation of renewable energy facilities in the rural city located on high quality agricultural land.

“Agriculture is a main economic driver (with a multiplier factor of four) for the Rural City of Wangaratta,” he said.

“The loss and destruction of arable land currently producing food, beverage, and fibre to renewable energy infrastructure (also

transmission lines) would have a serious and longlasting economic impact to the municipality.

“In addition to the economic impacts, the loss of agricultural land would also have significant negative social and environmental impacts.

“While clean, renewable energy is vital to the future of our planet, so too is our ability to feed, nurture and positively grow our rural communities.”

Cr Herry rebutted several

assertions and aimed at the points of motion saying the item was about energy and the need for new forms of energy.

“I’ve got a lot of sympathy for the expectation that there are good processes around community engagement,” he said.

“Another core issue alongside agriculture reproduction is energy production because this is about energy at the end of the day.

■ Continued page 3

WANGARATTA Kennel & Obedience Dog Club vice president Marion Gray and Marion Blundy and their dogs Molly, Louisa and Rex are excited for the Million Paws Walk this month.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

■ See story page 2

Stand

as rural city councillor

IF you have a passion for your local area, the Rural City of Wangaratta is calling all community leaders and potential candidates to get inspired through the Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) Stand for Council campaign.

To support potential candidates, the Rural City of Wangaratta in partnership with the MAV, is hosting sessions to provide information and inspiration.

The Goulburn Ovens Murray session will be hosted by the Rural City of Wangaratta on Thursday, June 13 from 6pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre.

To register for the information session visit, https://mavevents.cventevents.com/event/ SFCInformationSessions/register, and to learn more about MAV visit https://www.mav.asn. au/stand-for-council-2024.

North East man guilty of animal cruelty recorded in “disturbing” videos

A 40-year-old man has been sentenced to a 12-month Community Correction Order and ordered to complete 160 hours of community work after admitting to animal cruelty offences he filmed involving his pet dogs mauling and killing animals at his property near Myrtleford on multiple occasions between 2020 and 2023.

At Wodonga Magistrates’ Court last week, the man pleaded guilty to six charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, including three of aggravated cruelty, for deliberately allowing and encouraging his four dogs to fight with or fatally attack a wombat, a sambar deer, two kangaroos, and two cats.

He also admitted to a seventh charge related to the illegal possession of eastern grey kangaroo remains, an offence under the Wildlife Act 1975.

Presiding Magistrate Ian Wat-

kins described video evidence of the man’s offending as “confronting and disturbing” and stated that “a civilised society does not allow or tolerate” animal cruelty.

In sentencing, Mr Watkins specified the conditions of the man’s Community Correction Order including that he cannot reoffend or leave Victoria without permission, and he must undertake treatment and rehabilitation programs as directed by Corrections Victoria.

Any breaches of this order could result in imprisonment.

The man was also ordered to pay $686.57 in legal costs.

The result follows an investigation by the Conservation Regulator after receiving information and images from RSPCA Victoria relating to allegations of wildlife cruelty.

Authorised officers, with assistance from Game Manage-

ment Authority, executed a search warrant at the man’s property and recovered photo and video evidence of the offending.

The footage showed different animals being attacked by up to four hunting dogs at a time and the man failing to intervene, and he can be heard in several videos actively encouraging the dogs to fight, shouting phrases such as “get him” and “rough him up”.

The recordings also showed one of the kangaroo attacks being committed in front of his young daughter, and the man is heard saying that they were “smashing roos” together.

The Conservation Regulator relies on information from the community to help solve wildlife crime and we urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000. Callers can re-

main anonymous.

Greg Chant, regional manager regulatory operations, Hume Region said in Victoria, the inhumane treatment of animals is illegal.

“The court’s decision today is a reminder to the community that the Conservation Regulator does not tolerate animal cruelty and we will take action against offenders,” he said.

Kate Gavens, chief conservation regulator, said the Conservation Regulator takes all allegations of wildlife crime extremely seriously.

“We will continue to work with other authorities to investigate and prosecute these acts,” she said.

“Community information is crucial for our wildlife crime investigations, and we encourage the public to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 to report any illegal or suspicious behaviour.”

Help raise funds to end animal cruelty, register for Million Paws Walk in city

RSPCA Victoria Inspectors will be joining local pet owners at the Wangaratta Million Paws Walk this month to raise awareness of their important work to end animal cruelty.

(02) 9261 1930.

Local RSPCA Victoria Inspector, Kyle Pugh, said he is looking forward to meeting Wangaratta’s dogs and their owners at this year’s walk, to be held at the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club in the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Sunday, May 26.

“We know the locals in Wangaratta love animals, and the money raised at the Wangaratta

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

Million Paws Walk helps our regional team investigate more than 1000 animal cruelty reports coming in each year from the region, with 429 animals seized by or surrendered to inspectors,” Mr Pugh said.

“We’ll have inspectors joining us at the upcoming Wangaratta walk who are available to answer any questions you might have.

“If you are curious about what a day in the life of an inspector

entails or how to become an RSPCA inspector, the team will be more than happy to chat.”

RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Kevin Felmingham, from the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club, said the club has been supporting the walk for around 10 years.

He said many members from the club will be taking part in the walk and encourages others to do the same.

“The walk gets people out, it’s good for mental health and it’s good for people to get out with

their pets and have a good day,” Mr Felmingham said.

Last year, 91 local walkers and 63 dogs at the Wangaratta walk raised more than $7000. Thousands of pups and their owners will be hitting the pavement across the country raising vital funds to help end animal cruelty.

Registrations for the 30th Annual Million Paws Walk are now open at www.millionpawswalk. com.au/wangaratta.

Wangaratta’s event on May 26 will start at 9:30am, with the walk commencing at 10am and festivities concluding at 12pm.

GREAT CAUSE: Marion Gray and Maryanne Blundy will be participating in the Million Paws Walk with their dogs Louisa, Molly and Rex.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

73 local women seek shelter

By STEVE KELLY

BEYOND Housing has seen a sharp nine per cent increase in demand for support services from women facing homelessness due to family violence.

Since July, Beyond Housing has already seen 375 people, or one in 10 presentations, seek help, compared with 344 in 2022-2023.

The numbers are particularly stark in Shepparton, with 176 people citing family violence as the reason for seeking either emergency housing or other support.

Wodonga has recorded 96 cases, Wangaratta 73, and 30 in Seymour.

These alarming statistics underscore the broader national conversation on the need for enhanced support and resources for victims of family violence.

A 9% rise in regional demand from women trying to escape family violence gygpy

Beyond Housing CEO Celia Adams said the organisation faced unprecedented demand for crisis and emergency housing.

“We often hear ‘why don’t they just leave?’, and our response is ‘and go where?’ Victim survivors should not have to choose between a roof over their heads and safety,” Ms Adams said.

“With wait times for social and public housing at critical levels and crisis accommodation virtually non-existent, we need the government to step up now,” she said.

Ms Adams said the federal government’s $1 billion package announced this week must also include legal services, specialist FV supports, material aid, and im-

mediate access to crisis accommodation together with a pathway to a permanent home for victim-survivors.

“We have to protect women and children escaping family violence with safe spaces to stay,” she said.

This local data highlights the broader challenges identified in a recent Council to Homeless Persons submission to the Family Violence Reform Rolling Action Plan, which revealed that nearly 46,000 Victorians cited family violence as a factor in their homelessness in the previous year.

The submission stresses the critical shortage of adequate housing for women and children fleeing family violence, pointing to an alarming trend of increased

homelessness following support interventions and exceedingly long waits for social and public housing.

“We need a significant policy shift to address this growing emergency and streamline support for the most vulnerable, ensuring no one is left without safe refuge,” Ms Adams said.

Meanwhile, Jaime Chubb, CEO of the Centre Against violence, has welcomed the increased areas of funding, attention, and support highlighted in the recent National Cabinet meeting addressing the crisis of genderbased violence last week.

She said the focus on early intervention, protecting children and young people online, and increased resources for individuals us-

ing violence are priorities long advocated for by our organisation and the sector as a whole.

“The national conversation on preventing violence against women and children is crucial, setting the tone for responses and priorities,” she said.

“However, it’s imperative to extend this dialogue to the community level.

“Effectively combating gender-based violence requires more than just policy and funding; it demands grassroots efforts, community engagement, and cultural shifts.”

Ms Chubb said while policy measures are vital, government must also acknowledge the need to support those working directly

within the sector.

“The individuals working tirelessly in family violence require adequate support, including access to training and education,” Ms Chubb said.

“Increasing support for individuals to pursue tertiary education in relevant fields will not only enhance the capacity of the workforce but also contribute to long-term prevention efforts.”

Centre Against Violence reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including government bodies, community organisations, and individuals with lived experiences, to address the systemic issues surrounding gender-based violence.

Council split on government ruling to scrap tribunal process for state’s energy facilities

■ From page 1

“We need new forms of energy and there’s a reason why we’re doing this, a really big reason and it’s about global emissions and climate change.”

Cr Herry started to talk about housing and the provisions made under planning exemptions, before Cr Grant called him out for being off topic.

He criticised the way the motion of notice was written because it didn’t’ specifically define which exact legislation council would like to appeal.

Cr Rees warned Cr Herry about the time he was taking and referred to his earlier point of order against Cr Benton over alleged time violations.

Cr Rees made reference to the Victorian Government’s move as “taking the right away for people to object to something that may be going on next to their house or farm”.

“It’s another sign of getting rid of us as

councillors because they will make all planning decisions in the future,” he said.

Following the meeting Cr Herry lodged a Notice of Recission of Cr Benton’s motion, which has the effect of pausing any action to implement the matter until the recission notice is debated at the May ordinary meeting. The outcome currently has particular significance with a proposed solar facility at Meadow Creek gaining national attention with nearby farmers unhappy with their now inability to appeal the project via VCAT.

Meanwhile, the state opposition moved a motion in the Upper House on Wednesday that would have effectively reversed the State Government’s decision to removed the VCAT process on renewable energy facility decisions.

However, the motion was voted down 20 votes to 17.

COUNCIL STOUSH: Councillor Harvey Benton is dead against people being stripped of their right to appeal planning decisions on renewable energy facilities approved on quality agricultural land.

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Location important for solar farm

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

THE community turned up to support the ‘sod-turning’ and construction commencement event of a 38 megawatt Wangaratta Solar Farm on Friday in North Wangaratta.

When finished, the solar farm will see 75,000 gigawatt hours of energy produced per year.

CleanPeak Energy founder and CEO Philip Graham said the company’s focus is building smaller solar farms that can be sited in the right location.

“You have to have land that is close to transmission infrastructure and CleanPeak Energy build solar farms that can fit in the right land,” he said.

The transition to renewable energy from fossil fuels will require more land for the industry to work with.

“We are going to have a

big trade-off between landowners, communities and the builders of big solar farms,” Mr Graham said.

“We all need to come together and work out where the best place is for them and then work together to deliver something that benefits everyone involved.

“Our focus is how we can make this a good solar farm, not disturb the community and deliver benefits to local industry and local workers.

“I think we are managing that balance, I think the key thing will be how others can do it in the future.

“This is the model that we are going to stick to.”

Mayor Dean Rees and Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy were in attendance to officially open the site.

Cr Rees said this project shows the Wangaratta community supports solar and renewable energies on appropriately zoned land.

“This is the most appropriately zoned land in Wangaratta, it is purposefully zoned

for this and will be a great project for the Rural City of Wangaratta and further the community,” he said.

“We are all for renewables, in the right location and right time, this project certainly fitted the bill.

“These are community assets, you have to bring the community on this journey and CleanPeak energy certainly did this I just wish a couple of these other larger companies could take a leaf out of their book and bring

$295k gives flight to parrot project

Monday, May 5, 2014

TURQUOISE parrots in the Warby Range and surrounds will have improved habitat, thanks to a $295,620 project.

Bill Sykes (MLA, Benalla) announced the Practical Parrot Action Project in Glenrowan yesterday.

“Community and landholder involvement was critical to the protection of habitat for the threatened species,” he said.

“Turquoise Parrots were almost driven to extinction in Victoria around the early 1900s due to habitat loss, but populations have re-emerged since the 1940s, especially in the Warby-Chesney hills.

POWER:Celebratingthe

“Many of these populations are on private land adjoining public reserves.

“The Practical Parrot Action Project is a co-ordinated effort by the Broken Boosey Conservation Management Network and Chris Tzaros from Birds, Bush and Beyond.

“The Communities for Nature grant will allow landholders to build nesting boxes, provide fencing to protect remnant vegetation and revegetation of habitat corridors for these beautiful birds.”

Neo the Turquoise Parrot was on hand at the launch giving out “eggs” and judging a colouring-in competition.

Morning tea and lunch were provided by Glenrowan Primary School Parent Club followed by a barbecue lunch fundraiser for the GlenrowanWarby Ranges Lions Club.

Attendees also heard from wildlife ecologist Chris Tzaros and local landholder Graham Colson.

“These informative speakers highlighted just how important it is to protect habitat for the Turquoise Parrots in this region and how rewarding it is to get involved in projects like this,” Mr Sykes said.

“It was also great to hear that Victorians can find out more about the parrot’s existence and needs by getting involved in workshops and field days organised by the Broken Boosey Conservation Management Network.”

the community with them and I’m sure we’ll get better outcomes for everybody.”

A significant amount of energy will be exported to Alpine MDF and surrounding businesses, with a portion of energy being distrib-

uted in NSW areas towards Canberra.

Mr McCurdy said so often we see solar companies come in step on the community without appropriate consultation processes.

“What a difference it makes when you put the right project in the right place,” he said.

“This is a perfect example of how a renewable project should work.

“Dean and I are right on board with renewable projects, as long as it’s the right project in the right place and this is one of those.

“If communities support a project then it will go through seamlessly but some of the projects we are seeing in the North East are the right projects in the wrong places.

“CleanPeak Energy are an example of how to do consultation, how to work with the council and how to work with the community.

“We all win out of this project.”

Take care and be aware of alternative care services

NORTH East paramedics are urging Victorians to access alternative care options and get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations now before winter, as new data shows demand for emergency ambulances remains high.

Ambulance Victoria (AV) Hume Regional Director Steve Doyle said paramedics across Victoria were reaching the sickest patients on average 31 seconds faster than a year earlier despite demand increasing 4.4 per cent.

“Winter is a particularly bad time for the spread of illness. The good news is getting your flu shot and staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations will help you and the people around you stay well. Book in now with your pharmacist or doctor,” he said.

“Along with simple things like staying home if you’re unwell and washing and sanitising your hands often, these routine winter vaccinations can protect

what’s most important to all of us – our health.

“And if we look after our health – it will also make a real difference to our busy paramedics who again face rising demand as we head into winter.

“We also encourage all Victorians to take care of themselves, keep regular check-ups with your GP or specialist – and if it’s not urgent, get familiar with alternative care pathways.” January to March 2024 was the busiest Quarter three on record for emergency ambulances, with 150,048 Code 1 and Code 2 cases combined.

This includes 96,484 Code 1 cases and 53,564 Code 2 cases.

Performance improved in 62 of Victoria’s 79 Local Government Areas (LGAs) compared with a year ago.

In the Hume Region, the biggest improvements were in the Greater Shepparton, Benalla and Moira LGAs.

SOD TURNING: Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy, CleanPeak Energy CEO Philip Graham and Mayor Dean Rees turning the sod for 38 megawatt Wangaratta Solar Farm. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

PARROT POWER: Celebrating the announcement of the Practical Parrot Action Project in Glenrowan yesterday were (from left) Chris Tzaros, Bill Sykes (MLA, Benalla), Neo the Turquoise Parrot, landholder Graham Colson and Janice Mentiplay-Smith from Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GMBCA).

Man beat victim “senseless”

A WANGARATTA man was found to have beaten a man “senseless” in a back road assault, a Wangaratta court has heard.

The 24-year-old was sentenced to 120 hours of a community corrections order after pleading guilty to serious assault charges.

Police prosecutor

Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson told the court on December 22, 2022, three men were seen leaving a Reid Street venue towards Ely Street, where they confronted the defendant in his white ute.

Witnesses observed one of the three men throwing something at the

Community corrections order for Wangaratta man over serious assault yg

defendant’s car windscreen, which led to an altercation.

Police later attended and arrested two members of the trio near the Ford and Ryley streets roundabout, while another man walked down the nearby stairs and into Merriwa Park.

Through CCTV footage, police observed that at around 7:15pm the defendant left the scene in his vehicle and forced the third member of the trio into his car minutes later.

Witnesses observed the vehicle head towards Warby Range Road before coming

to a stop on the corner of Gravel Pit Road, where the assault occurred.

The court heard the 38-year-old victim was repeatedly hit, stomped and punched until left unconscious in a ditch.

A nearby witness believed they had observed the vehicle in the vicinity of their Gravel Pit Road home, and saw one man repeatedly punching “something or someone”.

A passerby later found the injured man unconscious and contacted Triple Zero, amid concerns

he had suffered lifethreatening injuries.

The victim was later discharged from hospital having suffered laceration to his forehead, cheek and scalp, a concussion and swelling.

He had no memory of what had occurred and could only remember leaving their work Christmas party earlier that night.

While the defendant said they had no recollection of the incident occurring, meta data of the defendant’s and victim’s mobile phone

pinpointed their location at the scene of the incident during that time.

Police investigations also found blood on the soles of the defendant’s shoes and blood from the rear of the car’s driver’s seat.

Defence lawyer Geoff Clancy said while it did not excuse his client’s actions, he was aggravated after being jumped by the trio on Ely Street and there was no direct evidence he had kicked the victim.

Magistrate Peter Mithen said he understood how the defendant would have

felt aggrieved when he was approached in his car, but he took the situation too far.

“You don’t take the law into your own hands, and you certainly don’t go beating people up until they’re senseless,” he said.

“Don’t go and get help because I’ve asked you to, go because you want to improve your anger management.

“You’ve had a fairly easy go because of your youth and your lack of prior offences… don’t go muck it up.”

Rock legend Ross Wilson coming to the WPACC

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

NOW listen, he’s steppin’ out in Wangaratta.

Living rock legend, Ross Wilson, is performing at Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre this Friday.

The show is part of the 50 Years Of Hits Tour that began at the start of summer, in which Ross is stepping out again with his allstar band The Peaceniks.

Ross has been creating and performing music since his youth and his almost six-decade career has included fronting iconic Australian bands, Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock.

Twice inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame and showing no signs of slowing down, Ross is a legendary live performer.

He said his love of performance is what drives him to keep touring and creating music.

“I love the performance aspect of it,” Ross told the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“There is a physicality to it, whether it’s breathing in the air or singing or a few dance moves, it’s fun.

“I’ll be around as long as I can, I like to earn a living and I enjoy what I do, and some people don’t have that luxury.

“My greatest achievement is that I’m still here and still doing it.”

The 76-year-old can’t make a comeback simply because he never left the Australian music scene.

The upcoming Wangaratta show is part of a series of concerts Ross and The Peaceniks are playing in theatres across regional areas.

“We discovered that so many regional cities and towns have performing arts centres with nice theatres in them,” he said.

“They have good sound, good lighting, and nice stages, we’ve taken advantage of that, in amongst the regular festivals, clubs and pubs that I do, it’s become a whole thing in itself.

“It’s pretty high energy, it’s not cruising I can tell you that, it’s rock and roll.”

Ross’s action-packed show will include all the Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock favourites you’d expect along with tracks from his latest EP, She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time.

The EP was released last year adding to his extensive repertoire of original music.

Ross said following this tour he will begin working on a new album.

“I’ve got enough songs to put together a good album,” he said.

The writer of iconic Australian rock anthem, Eagle Rock, broke into the music industry in the 1960s during his final year of secondary school.

Ross said he was asked to join a band after some dudes heard him playing harmonica.

“They asked if I could sing too, and I said yeah, because I knew I could,” he said.

“To any budding musicians looking to break into the music industry I would say you can’t do it alone and it’s not for the faint hearted.

“I just revel in the fact that people want to play with me.

“It’s not only about the musi-

cal community, but also about the community we live in at large, and I think that’s why people come and see me.”

Ross encouraged locals to book ahead with shows selling out fast.

“I can’t do it without the community,” he said.

“God bless them, they think I’m a good thing and come along to have a listen and have

Digital Pest Control

a sing along.

“Word’s gotten out that I do a good show and my band is really good, and we’ve been having a great time together.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone in Wangaratta.” Shows are selling out fast so get your tickets at https://www.wpacc. com.au/Whats-On/Ross-WilsonThe-Peaceniks.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? It’s important that you don’t allow a few rodents to turn into a rodent infestation on your property.

The sooner you take action the better. With pests it’s not about treating the symptoms you see but removing the source of the problem. This calls for a professional pest exterminator such as Economic Pest Control.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? It’s important that you don’t allow a few rodents to turn into a rodent infestation on your property. The sooner you take ac tion the better. With pests it’s not about treating the symptoms you see but removing the source of the problem. This calls for a professional pest controller such as Economic Pest Control.

for your rodent problem?

CROWD PLEASER: Ross Wilson performing at Birdsville, in one of his many regional shows.

A thoughtful look at renewable energy

TENSION was evident at the monthly council meeting last week when discussing the topic of a motion on renewable energy facilities introduced by Cr Harvey Benton.

Following the State Government introduction of legislation to fast track renewable energy facilities, it means that objectors to proposed facilities are no longer able to appeal decisions via VCAT.

Cr Benton’s motion was two-fold, with the preservation of prime agriculture land, but also maintaining the public’s ability to exercise their right to appeal planning decisions via VCAT.

Crs Jack Herry, Harry Bussell and Dave Fuller were against the motion with the former expressing at length his disagreement with the motion on the table.

The topic is multifaceted on both fronts of the argument.

Should the planning minister have free reign in building these facilities wherever she sees fit, despite the agricultural and biodiverse values of the land?

The State Government reported that it will consult with communities throughout each application.

But at the end of the day it will be the planning minister who signs off on any given application and objectors will have to take the matter to the Supreme Court to appeal.

Every application for renewable energy facilities - and there will be many - needs to be assessed on its individual merits.

The planning minister has a due diligence to take factors such as land quality into account when making her decisions on each application.

It’s important for Victoria to keep it’s agricultural and biodiverse values intact, because once they’re gone, they’ll be difficult to renew.

The Quiz No. 83

1. In July 2016, who became the member for the Division of Burt, Western Australia?

2. Azerbaijan shares its longest land border with which country?

3. Which racecourse hosts the annual Kingston Town Classic thoroughbred horse race?

4. What is the main ingredient of Welsh rarebit?

5. Which sport was featured in the classic 1960’s TV series, I Spy?

6. What are the three colours on the flag of Germany?

7. Which band released the 2014 album, Flesh & Blood?

8. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a popular tourist attraction in which Australian state or territory?

9. What was Liberace’s first name?

10. What is the capital city of Iraq?

11. In March 2014, who was the Treasurer of Western Australian for seven days?

12. In which sport could you compete in an Omnium event?

13. My Life as a Fake is a 2003 novel by which Australian author?

14. Which alcohol is added to Cointreau and lime juice to make a margarita cocktail?

15. What is the world’s largest animal?

16. Which oil tanker hit a reef in Prince William Sound in 1989?

17. Andrew Strong was the star of which popular 1991 movie?

18. What is the name of the NASA spacecraft that entered Jupiter’s orbit in July 2016?

19. The Ranger Uranium Mine is surrounded by which Australian national park?

20. George Best played international football for which constituent country of the United Kingdom?

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the new solar farms in North Wangaratta.

• Jarrod Fulton: Solar Factory ! Not a farm . Farms make produce, day or night for the survival of our way of life an have been doing so before electricity was ever invented just saying.

• Zita Heywood; It is industrial land , why then is farming land being targeted for solar farming in our

municipality?

• Charles Branstom:

Up to 95 per cent of the materials used to make a solar panel can be recycled, with the most valuable parts being the silicon, aluminium frames, and silver - which is mainly used in the front contacts of the module. For panels that are recycled, the most common process in Australia results in the panels being put through a standardised shredding

Hidden heroes behind 1.5 million reports

CRIME Stoppers wants to thank the hidden heroes of Victoria for coming forward with information, leading to an incredible 1.5 million reports.

Currently, someone contacts Crime Stoppers every five minutes to share information about unsolved crimes or suspicious activity.

Each month Crime Stoppers continues to grow, with over 12,000 reports received in March alone.

We know it takes courage to come forward and speak up, anonymously or not, and we should be very proud of the people who help make our community safer.

Crime Stoppers Victoria was launched in 1987 and as many would remember, often using reenactments of crimes to encourage people to come forward with information. In 2018, almost 31 years later, the organisation celebrated receiving one million reports.

Since then, community reporting has experienced tremendous growth, with a further 500,000 reports submitted in just over five years.

This growth is testament to the community’s trust in Crime Stoppers and willingness to actively participate in crime prevention efforts.

Crime Stoppers continues to grow thanks to the unwavering support of the Victorian public.

People now have a greater understanding of the issues facing the community and feel empowered to come forward and tell us what they know.”

They really are the heroes of Victoria.

So, this is our opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has given information, no matter if it was big or small.

Information to Crime Stoppers Victoria has resulted in over 29,000 arrests and the seizure of over $427 million of drugs, property and cash.

We have gone from showing people crime through reenactments, to the public showing us what they have seen.

This is often through their mobiles, dashcam and security camera footage.

People want to make a difference and play their part in solving crime. They can do just that by sharing information with Crime Stoppers.

Crime Stoppers Victoria encourages anyone with information about crime to come forward and make a difference.

Reports can be made anonymously on

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without

machine where they are broken into smaller pieces. These pieces are then down-cycled into other products such as an additive in the production of construction bricks concrete or even roadbase.

• Rez Leslie: Waste of bloody money,what’s going to happen to all the solar panels when they no longer work. They don’t think. Facebook users also commented on Shelley Hanely seeking support

from the community to receive treatment in America for stage four terminal cancer.

• Jackie Stevens: Please support Shelly and her family and let’s get her to the USA for treatment that she deserves.

Facebook users also commented on the recent NESLA’s Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebration.

• Vivienne Lea: A gorgeous photo of 3 very happy and beautiful ladies.

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

14,829

from

and ‘creature comforts’ to make a stay in the hospital more comfortable for patients and their carers.

1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com. au.

Stella Smith, Crime Stoppers chief executive

Duck shooting a political convenience

LESLIE Walker (Chronicle letters, May 1) is to be congratulated for her rebuttal of the claim by the Field and Game CEO that duck and quail shooting ensures a sustainable future for our wetlands.

Leslie also mentioned probably correctly, that Jacinta Allan refused to ban the shooting of ducks and quail, in part, because of a union backlash, that in my opinion, would not have even the remotest support of many trade unionists.

Much has been made of 800 electricians walking off the job at the Metro tunnel in March last year, supposedly in support of duck shooting.

I don’t believe that the duck shooting secretary of the ETU could have genuinely

convinced many of the 800 electricians (very few of whom would be duck shooters) to walk off the Metro Tunnel project because they even remotely supported duck or quail shooting.

The 800 electricians would have certainly welcomed the opportunity to leave work to pursue other recreations, that wouldn’t have included the shooting of ducks or quail.

Malcolm McDonald, Burwood

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

COMMUNITY GENEROSITY: OBrien Real Estate Joyce representatives Rebecca Joyce (with Harrison Joyce, 4), Stacey Justice and Sally Wohlers were rapt to present nurses Cassie Buchanan, Bridie Nixon and Bree McClen with a cheque for $7077, the proceeds

the community Easter egg hunt held on Thursday, March 28. Organised by OBrien Real Estate Joyce for the fifth consecutive year, the event was again a hit with local families, who jumped at the chance to gather prior to Easter, and to support Northeast Health Wangaratta’s paediatric unit. The funds will be used to purchase artwork to brighten the unit, new distraction therapy toys,

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

State fire season draws to an end

FOLLOWING a summer that saw a number of significant bushfires in the west of the state, the end of Victoria’s fire season has officially drawn to a close with the final fire restrictions lifted.

The first day of Catastrophic fire danger (Tuesday, 13 February) since the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System was introduced kicked off a turbulent few weeks for CFA volunteers.

Three main fires took off in Briagalong, Rawson and Loch Sport in late September and made for an early start to the season for firefighters, burning over 16,000 hectares.

More recently throughout February and March, thousands of firefighters came from across Victoria to fight the devastating bushfires that hit the Grampians, Staffordshire, Bayindeen and Dereel which burnt more than 30,500 hectares.

During this time, work was also undertaken by vol-

unteers to help clean up the impact of the devastating storms that went through South West Gippsland in Mirboo North.

CFA volunteers also worked tirelessly to support VICSES in flood recovery efforts in January across the North East and around 40 CFA members and staff were deployed to Helensvale in Queensland to support local emergency services with flood and storm response.

CFA deputy chief officer Garry Cook thanked every CFA member, volunteer, and staff, for their incredible response over the last few months, whether that was near or far from home.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who was in involved in our deployments both across Victoria and interstate, but also to those who remained close to home to continue protecting our local communities,” he said.

“Each day, we continue to

demonstrate that we are flexible, agile, committed and well-equipped to assist those in need at any given time, and it is admirable and appreciated.

“The prolonged response showcased the commitment of CFA brigades across the region, with many working multiple days in challenging circumstances.”

While bushfire intensity heightened this summer, as did the number of incidents

CFA volunteers responded to, with more than 14,600 across December to March,

up from 10,200 last year.

Volunteers assisted other agencies a further 426 times compared to 2022-23 and while vegetation fires saw a decline, structure fires and fires involving electrical equipment both rose by 108 respectively.

Landowners now have the opportunity to burn-off again, however it is important that residents check that local conditions are safe before undertaking these activities.

“Residents must still register their burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulation,” Mr Cook said.

“Registering your burnoff ensures that if smoke or fire is reported, the incident is cross-checked with our register, which prevents firefighters from unnecessarily responding.”

Landowners can register their burn-off online at www. firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.

Vision loss support group try their hand at trivia event

By JORDAN DUURSMA

LOCAL Vision and Blindness Peer Support Group

kicked off May with a trivia tournament at their monthly meeting last Wednesday.

The group met at Where’s My Coffee to enjoy a coffee with good conversation and trivia.

Jan Delany was the winner of the tournament and took home the prize which was a voucher to spend at Where’s My Coffee.

Regular support group member and trivia buff, Luke Davis, led the group in a series of 10 trivia questions.

Luke said his interest in trivia stems from his love of learning.

“It is general interest, I am fascinated by learning new information,” he said.

“Now it is something that I can share with the group.

“The best part about doing trivia is it helps my memory.

“That is one of the things I have been working on in

the last six months, rather than just learning information, retaining that information.”

Luke said his interest in trivia developed just before his vision loss in 2023.

“My vision loss began Easter 2023, it has now been one year since I have had zero vision,” he said.

One of the aspects of trivia which Luke enjoys is it’s an audible activity rather than visual.

To make the activity more accessible to the participants, program manager Rachel DeSumma and assistant program coordinator Tegan Allen adapted the way of recording answers and paired people up with someone who could assist with writing answers.

The group meets the first Wednesday of each month from 10:30am to 11:30am at Where’s My Coffee.

Those who want to learn how to support people in the community with low

vision and blindness are encouraged to join BSRV’s Vision Loss Awareness training on Wednesday, May 29 from 5pm to 7pm at the Wangaratta Library.

For more information about joining, donating or volunteering, visit

RIC to host free webinar on May 29 for first and next generation farmers

AUSTRALIAN Government farm business lender, RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) will host a free online webinar on Wednesday, May 29 for farmers, financial advisers, business planners and rural counsellors to learn more about how low-interest RIC loans can assist eligible first and next generation farm businesses accelerate their business plans.

RIC chief executive officer, John Howard said RIC loans can help purchase property, land or the business, refinance or restructure existing farm debt to improve cash flow and provide access to new funding

to manage operating costs and capital expenditure.

“The RIC AgriStarter Loan offers financial ‘breathing space’ for new farmers with a minimum of three years onfarm experience to improve cash flow, refinance a portion of their existing agribusiness debt or implement succession plans to fast-track their business growth and productivity,” Mr Howard said.

“RIC’s commitment to growing the Australian agricultural industry has delivered more than $88 million in AgriStarter loans since 2021 when they were first introduced.

"Two-thirds of AgriStarter

loans have helped to accelerate business activities for new farm enterprises while the remainder have supported succession planning arrangements.

To register for the free online webinar to find out more about the AgriStarter Loan, visit www.ric.gov.au/ events.

The webinar will be held on Wednesday, May 29 from 12:00 – 1:00pm AEST and a recording will be emailed to registered participants after the event.

For more about RIC AgriStarter Loan, visit www. ric.gov.au/agristarter or call RIC on 1800 875 675.

BSRV’s website at www. blindsports.org.au or the support group’s Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/blindsportsrecvic/. Contact the support group via email at tegan@ blindsports.org.au or call 0408 424 275.

END OF FIRE SEASON: As Victoria draws an end to its fire season, CFA are reminding communities to remain wary of safe burn-off protocols.

COFFEE AND CONVERSATION: Jan Delany, Tegan Allen and Peter Mudge enjoying trivia with Cathie Bodsworth, who came along on her husband’s behalf who has vision loss.

TRIVIA FOR THE TEAM: Luke Davis and Rachel DeSumma leading the support group in trivia.

PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

Local artist’s exhibition explores life and loss

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WANGARATTA artist, Janet

Leith’s exhibition ‘Melancholia’ will be open to the public in the Simpson Gallery at Benalla Art Gallery from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, June 23.

The opening celebration for the exhibition was held on Friday night at 6pm.

Janet is a contemporary visual artist and an art educator at Galen Catholic College.

Melancholia is Janet’s first solo exhibition in a public gallery.

She said she wanted to create a thoughtful and emotional environment for visitors to dwell, consider and personally identify with the concept of melancholia that is explored in the works, with an underlying message of hope.

Janet said it’s up to the viewer to interpret the works and find meaning in them.

“We all go through experiences and I think melancholia is a topic everyone has had some experience with,” she said.

“I think some of the works might speak to people on a very personal level, there is something here for everyone.”

Janet spent 18 months creating

the 25 works for the exhibition, following the loss of a loved one. Her inspiration came from Laurinda S. Dixon’s Privileged Piety: Melancholia and the Herb-

al Tradition published in the Journal of Historians of Netherlandish Art.

The works explore the prenineteenth century system of

belief relating to humoral theory, specifically the ‘Four Humors’ of phlegm, black bile, yellow bile and blood.

In each of the series there is a work which focuses on one of the four humors, an organ, a colour and a botanical aspect.

The works are a mix of paintings, drawing and sculptures and focus on artistic expression and personal processes rather than scientific fact or technical ideas.

As an art educator, Janet is thrilled to have her art in public exhibition that is accessible to everyone.

“I think art is something that everyone should be exposed to,” she said.

Janet said she hoped viewers would leave the exhibition knowing that there is always life.

“Throughout any journey we have, life still goes on and we have to learn to adapt and be encouraged to appreciate the life we have,” she said.

“Life and loss are there throughout all of our lives and I hope people can have the courage to find hope and life around them.”

Janet will speak about her exhibition on Monday, May 6 at 10am in the Ledger Gallery at Benalla Art Gallery.

Gleeful Motion exhibition Artmania explores playfulness and vibrancy

LOCAL art exhibition, Gleeful Motion, opened on Saturday at Artmania Creativity Hub and Gallery and will continue until Thursday, August 1.

The exhibition celebrates Janine Arnold and Ian Demmery, who are both long term resident studio artists of Artmania, both with an extensive folio of artwork.

Janine has been with Artmania for nine years and Ian five years, the pair are good friends who work together in the studio each Thursday.

Gallery director of Artmania Wangaratta, Shea O’keefe said the exhibition is an opportunity

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

for the general public, family and friends to view and purchase works and experience the beautiful studio gallery.

“I am really excited for the opportunity for members of the public to see the incredible work these artists produce in our studio,” she said.

“An exhibition opening for Artmania is a tangible community and personal outcome for our artists and their work.” Shea described the exhibition

as joyful, bold and colourful.

“It expresses interpretations of some of the artist’s passions and observations from pop culture,” she said.

“The playfulness and vibrancy of their work reflects the personalities of the artists.

“Janine and Ian have very different approaches to their creative practice.

“Ian is very physical in his artmaking and can easily create up to 10 large scale paintings on the easel in one session.

“His work clearly shows the movement in his mark making and is layered with bright colours in a variety of mediums.

By Peter

Driest April in North East for since 1945

THE main weather feature during April was the very dry conditions during the last three weeks in North East Victoria at all major centres.

Wangaratta recorded only 0.4 mms during the last three weeks of April, the driest since April 1945. Benalla recorded only 0.4 mms the driest since zero rainfall in April 1923.

Rutherglen recorded no rainfall during the last three weeks of April; the equal driest with April 1967.

Albury recorded no rain during the last three weeks of April and this also happened in Aprils of 1902, 1910, 1923 and 1997.

Mean maximum temperatures at major centres were all around 22.5 degrees all being close to April normals although Rutherglen was one degree above normal.

Mean minimum temperatures were two degrees below the April normal being the coldest for April for three years.

The start of April was unseasonably warm; 32.7 degrees at Wangaratta, 34.3 degrees at Rutherglen and 32.5 degrees at Benalla, the hottest for the start of April since 1943. The last week of April was dominated by morning frosts with minus 0.3 at Wangaratta on Friday, April 26.

By contrast much of Southern Victoria including around Melbourne had well over 100 mms during April including the wettest April day with 53 mms since 1977.

The mean maximum temperature of 19 degrees in Melbourne made it the coldest April since 1996 despite the warmest start to April since 2015.

There were only four other times when April was exceptionally wet in Melbourne but was also very dry in NE Victoria just like this year.

This took place in 1887, 1936, 1965 and 1996.

All these saw a notable dry period from about third week of April to the second week of May in NE Victoria.

Early May saw warmer days to 24 degrees.

A very strong high pressure system has formed well south of the Bight; the central pressure being 1043 mbs.

It will reach Tasmania and then park itself in the Tasman Sea.

An upper level system is currently forming over northern NSW and this will bring widespread heavy rainfalls by the next weekend. No rain will reach Victoria except for far East Gippsland.

“Janine is inspired by images from books and magazines or memories of pop culture from her youth.

“She goes through a slow planning process with each of her paintings to provide her own interpretation of the subject.

“Janine works mainly in ink and watercolour to create her large paintings.”

Shea said she would encourage anyone with a passion for outsider art or less mainstream art to come along and view the exhibition.

The public are welcome to view the exhibition at Artmania Creativity Hub and Gallery from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Friday.

Warmer days with winds mainly E/NE after morning fog and frosts are likely during the first week or so in May over most of Victoria with not much rain until the third week of May.

NO RAIN ON THE PLAIN: Wangaratta recorded its driest April since 1945. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

Nelson, Peter retired CSIRO climatologist

LIFE AND LOSS: Janet Leith’s exhibition “Melancholia” will be open to the public from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, June 23 at Benalla Art Gallery.

JOYFUL AND BOLD: Ian Demmery’s artworks are layered with bright colours in a variety of mediums.

PLAYFUL AND VIBRANT: Janine Arnold pictured with two of her works from the Gleeful Motion exhibition.

Ava raises $1600 for RSL

YEAR five Cathedral College student Ava Ryan raised more than $1600 for the Wangaratta RSL sub-branch by selling ANZAC Day badges and home-cooked ANZAC biscuits.

Through her dedication and hard work, the money Ava raised will go directly to the RSL to help fund its support services to veterans and their families.

“There’s a whole range of different ways we can help and every bit of money that we raise is really important,” Wangaratta RSL president, Lieutenant General (ret) Ash Power, said.

Leading up to ANZAC Day, Ava set her stall up on campus at recess and lunchtime.

She also sold badges at the Wangaratta RSL on ANZAC Day and was thrilled so many students at the school wanted to support the stall.

“The best thing about organising the fundraiser is that I feel it has helped keep the ANZAC spirit alive as well as raising awareness of the importance of the day,” said Ava, who has a deep family connection to ANZAC Day.

Her grandfather Gary Hadle, served in the Vietnam War, her great-grandfather Winston Warren served in World War II, and both her

great-great-grandfathers, Alexander McDonald and Valdemar Petersen, served in World War I.

Lt Gen Power said he was grateful for Ava’s efforts and motivation to help veterans in the community.

“Veterans and their families look after other veterans and their families,” he said.

“What Ava’s done of her own volition is remarkable.

“She’s a delightful young lady and the school and her parents are really proud of her.”

Cathedral College principal Nick Jones said the college community is immensely proud of Ava and her dedication and enthusiasm.

“Ava is to be congratulated on her service to her community and others,” he said.

“She was organised and proactive in managing the stall from start to finish.”

The Wangaratta RSL raises money every year around Remembrance Day and ANZAC Day and Lt Gen Power said it wouldn’t be possible without the help of the community.

“The schools who pitched in, the businesses around town and the individuals in the community your assistance is greatly appreciated,” he said.

Helping hand with family history research

DATING early family photographs will be the focus of a session hosted by the Wangaratta Family History Society on Friday, May 31.

Conservator Debra Parry will speak about 19th century and early 20th century photographs, and how these can be dated through observation of clothing and hairstyles, and taking note of the studios where the photographs were taken.

Debra has worked as a conservator for the National Archives of Australia, Heritage Victoria, the National Museum of Cambodia and the National

Library of Laos.

Now running her own business, she has gathered experience from working on many photographic collections, and has a keen interest in 19th century photographs.

The session will be held at the Masonic Lodge Hall in Appin Street from 10am to 3.30pm, at a cost of $30 each for members and $40 for nonmembers.

BYO lunch, tea and coffee provided.

Those attending are invited to bring along photographs for which they would like a date or conservation advice.

Bookings are essential for this event, and can be made by emailing wangfamhs@gmail. com or phoning 0474 443 626.

The Wangaratta Family History Society is based in the local history room at the Wangaratta Library, where its opening hours from May until September 30 this year will be each Thursday from 10am to 3pm.

Outside of these hours, assistance will be available by appointment only.

Appointments can be arranged via email at wangfamhs@gmail.com or by phoning 0474 443 626.

Police urge motorists to uphold basic driving standards on state’s roads

POLICE are reminding motorists to heed to the basics of driving as new analysis showed more than 24,000 infringements were issued in a single year for some of the simplest of road rules.

The force is urging people to focus on the foundations of good driving, warning even minor mistakes or inattention can have catastrophic consequences.

Such single acts of noncompliance typically account for more than half of road deaths each year.

Acting Senior Sergeant Joshua Perkins, for State Highway Patrol, said a moment’s inattention was all it took to cause a crash and the ramifications can last a lifetime.

“The saying goes: ‘little things add up’, and nothing could be truer when it comes to your behaviour on the road,” he said.

“We really want people to think about the basics of good driving and riding –paying attention, following the rules and expecting the unexpected.

“It’s also important we get away from the dog-eat-dog mentality some people have when they get behind the wheel.

“A bit of courtesy costs nothing and goes a long way in making the roads safer for everyone.”

Victoria Police analysiscovering the latest financial year - shows almost 8000 infringements were issued for

motorists failing to obey traffic lights alone.

This includes running red lights, ignoring amber lights and disobeying traffic lane signals.

A further 3000 drivers failed to obey stop signs.

Behaviour at intersections was of particular concern, with 2000 infringements for failing to give way at intersections and 1300 for ignoring give way signs.

Roundabouts appeared a mystery to many who entered them from the wrong lane, ignored traffic arrows and didn’t give way when they were supposed to.

Around 2200 drivers were caught tailgating and 1700 didn’t have their headlights and taillights on at night.

RAISING MONEY: Wangaratta RSL president, Lt Gen (ret) Ash Power (left), and Cathedral College principal, Nick Jones (right), are proud of Ava Ryan’s (centre) fundraising.

STRONG CONNECTION: Ava Ryan has a strong connection to ANZAC Day as family members, like her grandfather Gary Hadley, have served in war.

AGM season wraps up for local Probus clubs

WANGARATTA APPIN PARK

COMBINED PROBUS

FOLLOWING the annual general meeting in March the in-coming committee of president Lyn Evans, vice president Denny Wagstaffe, secretary Vicki Bailey, treasurer Di Ash, activity officers John Cleal and Brian Davey, hospitality officer Elaine Broadway, membership officer Susan McDonald, welfare officer Marianne Franke, guest speaker officer Robyn Dunstan and ex-officio Maureen Adcock took their places.

We wish them well for the coming Probus year.

New president Lyn Evans called the April meeting to order and welcomed those members present and visitor Gail Dodd.

Birthday wishes went to several members including Bob McLean who celebrated his 80th birthday. Cheers Bob.

Special interest groups informed us of their next events including movie group meeting on April 14, the new Friday lunch group, who will meet monthly, met at Pinsent Hotel on April 19.

Afternoon card group meet each Tuesday at 1pm at Wangaratta Club, new players welcome and Craft Group meet on the last Tuesday of the month at the Terrace Hall cardroom.

Walkers meet each Monday 9am at Apex Park.

Combined breakfast group are meeting at the Gateway on Sunday, May 5 at 9am.

Activity officer John Cleal organised a trip to Burramine Homestead on April 17 which members really enjoyed.

Other events planned are a trip to Mansfield Zoo on May 15 and Seniors Race Day at Wangaratta on May 16.

PROBUS CENTRAL COMBINED

OUR annual general meeting was held at Wangaratta Bowls Club, Park Lane, Wangaratta on Friday, April 19, 2024 at 10am.

Following the AGM, our new committee are president Gerry Knobben, vice president Sally Haynes, secretary Barbara Spivey, assistant secretaries

ONWARD AND UPWARD: This

Nancy Hupfield and Sally Haynes, treasurer Bob Haynes, assistant treasurer Chris Norris, membership officers, Heather Ward and Betty Noble, activities coordinator Rhonda Palstra.

Today was the first meeting with the new committee and president Gerry opened the meeting.

Current membership is 67.

Members present today, 54. Apologies 11. Unknown 2.

Guest speaker was our resident bush poet, Ralph Meggs who presented a selection of Australian poems.

Coming events are April 26 – 12 noon at the Plough Inn, Tarrawingee.

May 9 at 8.30am Breakfast at the Gateway

May 9 - ‘Farewell To Doris’. WPACC. Tickets have been distributed to those attending.

May 15 - Car trip to Bendigo for the Impressions of Paris Exhibition.

Check with Rhonda Palstra for details.

May 16 - Seniors Race Day at Wangaratta Turf Club

June 21- 23rd Club birthday. InHouse Lunch.

Looking ahead to another caravan trip November 17-22 to Wilson’s Promontory.

The next general meeting will be held at 10am on Friday, May 17.

LADIES PROBUS CLUB REPORT

EVERYONE was welcomed to the meeting by president Christine Spriggs.

Doreen Holmes was presented with her 30 year badge this month.

Doreen shared her experiences within the club over her 30 years.

She then cut the lovely sponge cake we had, which was shared by all for morning tea.

Ten pin bowling numbers are increasing and there were three ladies who joined them for coffee afterwards.

Mahjong now has seven ladies who attend regularly although they would welcome more players.

Sunday Fun Day has been changed to Friday Fun Day as it is easier for the ladies to get there on Friday.

Garden group is out and about visiting Barb Forster’s garden on April 26.

Our Breakfast Group, which meets every two months, was at the Gateway on April 17 and we have 15

ladies who attend regularly.

This is a great start to the day with lots of chatter and laughter over breakfast.

Our virtual tour is continuing around Tasmania and is showing us what sights there are to see in Tassie.

For those who have visited Tasmania it brings back memories of times they have spent there.

No guest speaker this month but members were encouraged to speak about their most embarrassing experience, plenty of laughs had all around.

WANGARATTA WEST COMBINED PROBUS

OUR new president Pauline McAliece opened the April meeting and welcomed members and three guests.

There were a few apologies mainly from “sickies” and we wish them well.

Special anniversary certificates were presented to Heather and Trevor Prentice and Lindsay and Ivy Maiden.

Both couples celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. What a great achievement!

We sent our best wishes to Shirley Holland, who organises our garden club activities, for a speedy recovery from a fall.

The organised trip for April 17

will still go ahead but no more in the pipeline.

Our next Sunday lunch on April 28 will be at Eldorado Tavern.

Helen reported the Adelaide trip was most enjoyable. Seventeen folk had a great time.

Next trip is to Tasmania in October.

Ring Helen Baker on 0448 388 474 for reservations.

President Pauline spoke about the necessity to have an assistant secretary and another vice president on the committee.

Please give this some thought before next meeting.

We had a very interesting guest speaker after morning tea.

Kurt spoke about his hobby of storm chasing, meteorology and lightning.

This different subject made members ask lots of questions and answers were given quickly.

Our next meeting is May 13.

WANGARATTA MEN’S PROBUS CLUB

THE sudden death of acting secretary Ed Bradbury created some problems to our incoming board consisting of president Laurence Neal, vice president Bill Harvey, secretary Ken Clarke, treasurer Bob Jones and committee Warren Garrett, George Lee, Reg Dobson, Arthur Ingarfield, Brian Fox and past president Richard Gray.

These gentlemen were elected at our annual meeting and just three days later Ed passed away.

Trying to obtain records, together with passwords and club documents was slowed, but we are now back in operation as a club.

The great news at our annual general meeting was the bestowing of life membership on Bill Bellis, who has been the keeper of our records for close to 20 years.

Bill’s ill health has kept him away from meetings, but it is hoped that he will be able to attend our May meeting for presentation of his certificate.

Boomerang Bags were our guest speakers for April and gave us an excellent insight into what they do with offcuts of fabric and the like.

Most members made a purchase of bags at the end of the day.

month’s photo shows some of Wangaratta Appin Park new committee members (from left) vice president Denny Wagstaffe, president Lyn Evans, treasurer Di Ash, activity officer John Cleal and secretary Vicki Bailey.

The latest book recommendations

With

PAULINE MONCRIEFF, THE BOOK CIRCLE

THE April gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, April 10 and a variety of books were shared.

FICTION

The Armour of LightKen Follett

The story is set in Kingsbridge, UK, in 1792.

It is a time of great ferment, and revolutions are in the air.

The introduction of mechanised weaving machines is causing much anxiety to weavers and is threatening to upend their whole way of life.

Unemployed weavers face poverty and hunger.

We see the sharp division between the rich and poor.

While humble folk go hungry, factory owners, bishops and landowners are held in high regard, and lack for nothing.

The outside world intrudes as well, when two young men from Kingsbridge join the army and go to France to fight in The Napoleonic Wars.

The Judgement of Caesar - Steven Saylor

Historic fiction, set in Rome, featuring Gordianus the Finder, who is a spy with interesting connections.

He is hired by Caesar’s wife Calpurnia to find out who intends to assassinate Caesar.

He also talks with Cicero, and has met Cleopatra in Egypt.

The author is skilled in creating the sights and sounds of ancient Rome.

To celebrate Caesar’s victories, Triumphs are held, lasting four days, where stolen goods from vanquished groups are on display in the arena and there is free food and drink for all.

The Book of Doors -

Gareth Brown

A fantasy novel.

Cassie is given a magic book that open doors to other places.

At first,we see her sheer joy in being able to visit Venice, Lyons and Paris so easily, but this delight will not last for long.

Soon very real danger emerges. Someone else wants the book and will stop at nothing to possess it.

From a delightfully cosy beginning in a neighbourhood bookshop, the story takes some alarming turns.

A Death in DiamondsS J Bennett

This is the fourth in the series featuring Queen Elizabeth II as a secret sleuth.

It is 1955, and the young queen suspects that there is a spy in the palace, and that someone wants her off the throne in favour of someone else.

Then there is a seemingly unrelated murder.

She teams up with Joan, a former Bletchley House codebreaker, to flush out the murderer and find the spy.

A cosy read, very entertaining. (Also on Borrowbox)

The Accident -

Fiona Lowe

There is a fatal accident in a small country town in WA, and it has farreaching effects on life in the town.

As time passes, new truths emerge, which question the very basis of trust.

Sea Fever -

Anne Cleeves

This was written in 1993, earlier than her better-known Vera series.

It features a bird-watching expedition at sea, on which one of their number goes missing.

He is discovered in the water, trapped in the bird-attracting gear, dead.

Who committed the crime, and why?

George and Molly, amateur sleuths, will attempt to find the perpetrator.

The Likeness -

Tana French

This is a follow-on from In the woods, in the Dublin Murder series.

Cassie Maddox becoems involved in the murder of her ‘double’.

She agrees to go undercover as a university student, to try and discover who actually caused the death.

Faithful Place -

Tana French

Undercover detective Frank Mackay has been the detective in charge of Cassie Maddox’s undercover work in The Likeness.

He comes from a dysfunctional family, and runs away from home.

Years later, the body of his former sweetheart, Rosie, is found, and Frank involves himself in the investigation.

Then someone tries to frame him for Rosie’s death, but Frank, the good detective, gets to the heart of the matter and finds the killer.

Shadow at the Door - Jo Dixon

An absorbing tale of trolling and control.

It tells a twisting story of Remi, who is trying to rebuild her life after being assaulted by a friend, and then having to deal with a messy divorce from her husband.

Unfortunately Remi’s ex won’t go away, and he and his new wife are trying to force Remi to sell her house. He helped finance it when they divorced.

The BeaconP A Thomas

Reni struggles to make loan repayments and her business is struggling, so she rents out two spare bedrooms to women she does not know.

Are the new people friend or foe?

A gripping tale with some good plot twists.

Dark SkyC J Box (2021)

Storm WatchC J Box (2023)

These two books are the latest in the Joe Pickett series, now numbering 24 titles.

Joe is the game warden in Saddlestring, a small town in Wyoming, where nearly everyone hunts and owns a gun.

The climate is harsh and so are the people.

Joe is an everyman hero with a penchant for stepping into trouble, and finds himself confronting hunters, cowboy hit-men, eco-terrorists and rogue government agents, among others. Recommended.

This mystery is set in Byron Bay. The editor of a local newspaper goes surfing and doesn’t return. Was it a shark?

Then there is evidence pointing to a suspicious death, but the police don’t want to know.

Recommended.

If the Blood Should

Stain the WattleJackie French

Historic fiction, set in the Australia of 1975, amid the turmoil surrounding the dismissal of the Whitlam government.

It was a period of extraordinary social change and idealism.

An adroit mixture of fact and fiction.

Recommended.

Lucky JimKingsley Amis

An amusing account of a young and irreverent history lecturer at a red-brick university, railing against institutional stuffiness and pretension.

Down and Out in Paris and LondonGeorge Orwell

An interesting collection of essays by this gifted writer.

NON-FICTION

The Good CopRon Iddles

In 25 years as a homicide detective, Ron’s conviction rate was 99 per cent. He became known to police and criminals alike as ‘The Great Man’. He was tough, inventive and incorruptible.

Minefields -

Hugh Riminton

Over 40 years, the author has been a journalist and a foreign correspondent, often on the front line.

He has been shot at, blown up and thrown into gaol.

Rimington has always delighted in chasing the news, despite the danger, and witnessed the terrible massacre in Rwanda, where 800,000 people were murdered and Australian forces were powerless to respond.

He doesn’t do ‘humble’ at all.

Crimes of the CrossAnne Manne

The book hit the shops and online right at Easter.

It would appear to have an appropriate Easter title.

Many Christians see Jesus’ sacrifice as a victory over sin and death.

However, the book is a factual account of how the Anglican Church in the Diocese of Newcastle protected sin and brought about the death of the innocent.

The book is hard to read, and pulls no punches.

It tells the story of Stephen Smith - his abuse by the Church, his survival, his fight for justice, and his amazing ability to forgive ‘those who sinned against him’, provided they showed remorse.

A powerful, well-written book.

Reader beware: it may trigger painful memories for some.

Junior Reporter Club

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 On which ship did a renowned mutiny take place (6)

7 What is a state of mental disorder (8)

8 Name a seaport in southwestern Italy (6)

9 Which term describes the most wrathful (8)

11 When one rushes, one does what (7)

13 Which part of a spacecraft is detachable (7)

15 Which desert lies between the Nile valley and the Red Sea (7)

17 Name a small nocturnal carnivore (7)

20 To be glittering, is to be what (8)

23 When something lessens, it does what (6)

24 What is known as the Net (8)

25 When one engraves, one does what (6)

DOWN

1 What, in Spanish America, is a day labourer (4)

2 What are fragments known as (6)

3 What is a swelling on the edge of the eyelid (4)

4 Name a principal linguistic family of Africa (5)

5 Name another term for a referee (6)

6 What is a subject of discourse (5)

9 What holds a vessel in place (6)

10 Which term describes a disturbance or a brawl (7)

12 Who is a transgressor (6)

14 Name a renowned whisky (6)

16 What do we call those who wound with the teeth (6)

18 Who is the head of a monastery (5)

E-QUATIONS

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

19 What is a fertile place in a desert region (5)

21 Which term suggests many (4)

22 Name a Biblical garden (4)

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

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

1 ASSEGAI

(a) A South African native spear (b) The Greek rough breathing (c) The Semitic language of ancient Assyria

2 BORZOI

(a) A Russian soup with beetroot etc

(b) A huge greyhound-like dog

(c) A genus of scented shrubs

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

CLUES:

Accepting: ‘that’s a ...’ (3)

Commuter boats (7)

Compounds turning litmus red (5) Gratings (5) Happy (5) He is (cont) (3) Personal journals (7) Plead (3) Sandy seashore (5) US actress: ... Farrow (3)

RURAL

In the market for rain

LIKE the cattle producers he works with, Warrick Benton is looking to the sky for that much needed rain.

The Wangaratta Livestock Selling Complex general manager says below average rainfall for the second successive month across much of the North East is being reflected back through turnout and sales at the yards.

Last Tuesday’s 180 head offered at the monthly prime cattle sale saw some pens of cattle light on weight and condition, but producers unwilling or unable to carry them any longer.

Of the total yarding, the 51 cows averaged $2.20 a kilo ($1.30/kg to 2.55/kg), 57 heifers averaged $2.20 a kilo ($0.50/kg to $3.02/kg), and 64 steers averaged $2.58/kg (($0.30/kg to $3.40/kg).

Cow and heifer averages were the lowest so far this year: cows having averaged $2.54/kg, $$2.32/kg and $2.38/kg, with heifers averaging $2.55/kg, $2.53kg and $2.65/kg at respective January, February and March prime cattle sales.

Steers were up on February ($2.53/kg) and March ($2.54/kg) averages but down on January ($2.65/kg).

“Certainly we’re all hanging out for the rain,” Warrick said.

Livestock

BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au

“The dry spell and oversupply in the market - with some producers simply not having feed for stock - is being reflected in the prices.

“Conditions are certainly a bit of shock compared to the same time last year.”

While some feedlots have cut back on activity in the markets for a few weeks, local processors are still offering strong support and interest.

And looking further ahead, Warrick reckons the Rabobank seasonal outlook for beef released last week - which has some upside for domestic prices later in the year - is pretty much spot on.

“We’re still a huge exporter of beef and when the northern hemisphere summer kicks in markets such as the USA will increase their burger appetite, which is good for chopper cow prices and grinding beef,” he said.

DRY TIMES: Wangaratta Livestock Selling Complex general manager Warrick Benton (pictured right) inspects some of the cattle offered at Tuesday’s prime sale. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

PRODUCERS FEELING PINCH AFTER ANOTHER DRY MONTH

Seasonal beef outlook from Rabobank

AUSTRALIA’S cattle market is sitting in a “state of balance” –with improved beef production waiting on an increase in demand – but an upside in prices is expected towards the end of the year, Rabobank says in its Australian Beef Seasonal Outlook

2024 released last week.

The current absence of any strong demand – along with a higher herd inventory, with no real liquidation or rebuilding urgency – means cattle prices are more exposed to changes in producer sentiment, the agribusiness banking specialist says.

And this, in turn, is highly dependent on seasonal conditions.

However, as the year progresses, according to report author, RaboResearch senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird, “we feel global beef demand, led by the US market, will start to have a stronger influence on the Australian cattle market, providing upside to cattle prices”.

Mr Gidley-Baird said there are, though, “a couple of ‘known unknowns’ to watch”, which could weigh on the market.

“With a heavily producer-influenced market, any negative seasonal change could see producer sentiment fall and prices drop accordingly,” he said.

“We saw this happen last year with the declaration of El Nino – every dry month, we saw cattle prices drop as producers lost confidence in the market.

“Furthermore, if demand recovery in Australia’s key Asian beef markets fails, our growing production may cause prices to fall.”

DOMESTIC PRICES

The bank expects a more bullish cattle market in the year ahead, but that will still be subject to producer sentiment.

Rabobank projects the EYCI (Eastern States Young Cattle Indicator) will be relatively stable in 2024 – trading in a band between 600 to 750c/kg cwt.

Mr Gidley-Baird said with no strong restocker or liquidation pressures in the system, the increased livestock numbers are expected to be balanced by the recovery in global demand.

“After the larger-than-

expected drop in the EYCI in 2023, projected prices suggest the EYCI should be 20 per cent higher on average in 2024 and potentially finishing the year 40 per cent higher than where it finished in 2023,” he said.

Mr Gidley-Baird said without strong demand, producer sentiment will drive the market.

“While we expect beef demand to improve, this may not occur until the second half of the year,” he said. “Without the improvement in demand, the increasing cattle supplies means producer buying and selling activities will continue to have a large impact on cattle prices.

“We saw this in 2023 and into 2024, where cattle price movement followed producer sentiment and seasonal conditions.”

Mr Gidley-Baird said dry seasonal conditions in the months of February, May, August, September and October 2023 saw cattle prices drop, while wetter months of November 2023 and January 2024 saw upward movements in prices.

“The Bureau of Meteorology has declared the El Nina weather event of 2023-24 to be over, and seasonal conditions to be average in the coming months,” he said. “Therefore, we are expecting prices to remain steady.”

CATTLE NUMBERS

The rebuild of the Australian breeding herd over the past “couple of years” is now generating increased numbers of slaughter-age cattle, the report said.

“We believe Australian cattle slaughter will rise about 15 per cent in 2024 to be close to eight million head,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.

“Increases in processing capacity with increased labour will also support the rise in slaughter numbers.

“Eight million head is slightly higher than the 10-year average from 2014 to 2023 and we

believe is more reflective of a ‘normal’ slaughter volume for Australia.”

Mr Gidley-Baird said with the increased slaughter number, beef production is set to increase of 10 per cent to 2.4 million tonnes cwt (carcase weight) for 2024.

This is slightly higher than the 10-year average of 2.2 million tonnes.

INCREASING EXPORTS

Mr Gidley-Baird said while domestic consumption of beef is forecast to drop slightly, Australian beef exports in 2024 are expected to rise by 10 per cent off the back of increased production.

“More challenging economic conditions domestically lead us to expect domestic per capita consumption will drop slightly from 23.7 kg/capita in 2023 to 23.4 kg/capita in 2024,” he said.

“Although commentary suggests consumers may be trading down to cheaper cuts, data indicates that they are not trading out of beef.

“With total domestic consumption almost static, all the increased production will be sent to the export market, leading exports to increase by almost 10 per cent to 1.2 million tonnes cwt, the highest volume of exports since 2019.”

The Rabobank report said demand in key Asian markets, although soft, is expected to improve in 2024.

Mr Gidley-Baird said declining US exports to Asian markets will support increased Australian volumes to these destinations, but Australian exports will need to compete with increased volumes from South American suppliers.

“The US is also expected to be a strong importer of Australian beef in 2024,” he said.

“Following an 84 per cent lift in exports in 2023, we are expecting a further increase in Australian volumes to the US in 2024.”

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

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

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

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482.

WHEELER

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

Galen Catholic College

Our Vision is to provide pathways for all to succeed based on their individual gifts and talents. Join our amazing team of educators and a professional environment that is passionate, collegial and focused on learning for all.

We are currently seeking applicants for the following ongoing positions from Term 3, 2024:

We are open to part/full time employment as well as a combination of any of the above teaching areas.

position from Term 3, 2024:

For further details on how to apply please visit our website

Our school community promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children.

Galen Catholic College embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Accounts & Office Manager North East Media and Group Companies

Full Time

North East Media and associated companies are looking for an experienced accounts and office manager to bring their expertise into play in a role that is pivotal to our success.

If you are looking to be a part of a company that values your skills and offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team then this role would be ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities:

Overseeing financial management, billing, payroll and accounts payable/receivable.

Managing the administration operations of the media business, including workflow management, resource allocation, and staff supervision.

Implementing and maintaining efficient office systems and procedures to enhance productivity and quality improvement processes.

Providing leadership and guidance to the team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Requirements:

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in accounts and administration.

Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and colleagues.

Intermediate to Advance Level in the Microsoft suite of products (Outlook, Word and Excel).

Experience in accounting systems such as Xero or MYOB.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to:

Edward Higgins

CEO

North East Media Pty Ltd

ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

The Wangaratta Uniting Church is seeking applications for the position of Administration Officer.

The successful applicant will provide clerical and administrative support to the minister and congregation relating to general office operations, property, finance and social media. The Administration Officer will work closely with the Minister, Church Council and various groups within the cluster as well as community groups.

To apply for this position please email: ucwang@bigpond.com and a Position Description will be emailed to you.

Closing date: Friday, May 17, 2024. Please note applications will be assessed before this date.

CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

A school of the Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)

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

Assistant Business Manager

Please refer to our website for more information. Enquiries regarding the position can be directed to the Business Manager, Ross Moore, at rmoore@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au

Applications are to be forwarded to the Human Resource Officer, Ms Noeila Araya at recruitment@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au by 5.00pm, Monday May 13, 2024.

Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer

O. P. INDUSTRIES Pty. Ltd.

OP Industries Pty Ltd is seeking a

APPRENTICE CHEF

Winery Restaurant

Brown Brothers is looking for a motivated and energetic individual looking to start or complete their Apprenticeship journey.

About us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and trusted wine companies. With premium vineyards in Victoria and Tasmania, our family of wines has now grown to five brands - Brown Brothers, Devil’s Corner, Pirie, Tamar Ridge and Innocent Bystander. We are passionate about our wines and our core values of Wellbeing, Respect, Innovation and Pride in What We Achieve Together. Most recently we have been certified as “A Great Place to Work” and are committed to honouring this recognition throughout all aspects of the business.

About the Restaurant: Brown Brothers Restaurant was recently awarded a hat at the 2023 Good Food Guide awards. We are an iconic tourist destination recognised for our outstanding diversity around food and wine experiences, exciting event calendar, and host approximately 100,000 visitors per year, with our Restaurant and Cellar Door central to our offer. About the role: This is an exceptional opportunity for an Apprentice Chef - a school leaver that is ready to take on the 1st year of your apprenticeship OR a 2nd year eager to continue learning from experienced professionals in a dynamic, award-winning restaurant and functions venue based in Milawa.

Guided by the Head Chef, Bodee Price the successful applicant will gain exposure to a wide variety of cooking techniques including our fermentation program around miso and sourdough, the culinary art of charcuterie as well as cheese making.

The role will include weekend and some evening shifts and involve food preparation and presentation in a predominantly daytime service environment. Some function and event work may be required.

About you: The successful applicant will have:

• A positive attitude and enjoy working in a team environment.

• A genuine passion for food and a strong desire to learn.

• An ability to problem solve and think on your feet

• High level of presentation and hygiene standards

What’s on offer:

• Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies

• A supportive and innovative learning environment where you can develop your skills and achieve your goals

• Learn the benefits of growing and harvesting vegetables from our onsite kitchen garden.

• A flexible and supportive working environment including access to the Company EAP

• Generous product discounts

• Lunch provided on rostered days Interested? Then we’d love to hear from you ASAP! Apply now!

More Information: Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or by calling Allyce on (03) 5720 5500.

EMPLOYMENT

Truck Driver/Meat Lumper

Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person able to be a delivery driver to distribute carcass meat throughout Victoria and the Riverina to local butchers and supermarkets. Early morning starts to allow delivery to butchers during the day and some heavy lifting is involved.

We are prepared to teach the suitable person lifting techniques to assist with carcass and boxed meat deliveries.

HEAVY RIGID LICENSE ESSENTIAL.

This is an opportunity to build towards a long term position with our company. Apply by return response to this advertisement, call Peter Booth on 5721 2349 or come in and see us at 53 Greta Road, Wangaratta.

HONDA Accord Euro sedan 2005, red, auto, one owner, regularly serviced, runs well, reg (TNC309), no RWC, straight, 466,686km, Whitfield, $2200 ono. Ph 0447 526 403.

REDUCED!

COSTANTINO, Rosa. May 6, 2021. Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories. Lovingly remembering our precious Mother and Nanna.

2005 Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatchback (TIZ667) May 15. 126,000km, manual, 17" alloy wheels, TRD upgrades, tinted windows, excellent condition $8000. Ph 0438 988 608.

2005 Izuzu Van (T0V227), manual, diesel, reg till Aug 2024, services regularly by Robinsons Trucks, in good condition, $15,000 ono. Ph 0439 030 062.

2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER, reg (UDQ911), 180,000km, 1 owner, 7 seater, second spare, roof racks, very good condition, $8000 ono. Call Robin 0412 485 113.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

2019 Ezytrail forward fold with annex and many extras including 95L f/freezer, $15,000, located Euroa. Ph 0437 064 426.

CARAVAN Phoenix Scorpion Off-Road, reluctant sale, $15,000. Ph 0407 373 167.

Resting peacefully with Dad and Joe in God’s heavenly care. - Alba and Ian, and Grandchildren.

the Journey Mason Park Funerals P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

4.6 Fibre Glass boat/trailer, 70hp Yamaha, very little use, all safety gear, new seats, awning, paint and gel coat, totally refurbished, new transom, GPS, Sounder, $10,500. Ph 0407 161 665.

FLOWERS, chrysanthemum bunches $15, mixed posies $30-$50, box arrangements and vase arrangements, lots to choose from. Pick up from 78 Arundels Lane, Wangaratta. Ph 0407 500 302.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND MURRAY SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD RESERVES

THURSDAY, APRIL 25 - ANZAC DAY

GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: B Kantilla 2, T Bracher 1, C Taylor 1, D Wyatt 1. WODONGA: N Spiteri 4, E Redcliffe 3, K Winter-Irving 3, C Ainsworth 2, J C O’Sullivan 2, N Bradshaw 1, T Miller 1, C Morrison 1. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: N Bracher, S Darley, W McCarty, N Bowey, H Cribbes, A Scammell. WODONGA: N Bradshaw, J Mathey, T Johnson, M Wilson, C Ainsworth, A Jorgensen.

GOALS: ALBURY: B O’Hara 3, J Male 1, A Miles 1, J Page 1, M Walker 1. NORTH ALBURY: F Gardiner 2, I Campbell 1, N Dennis 1, J Murphy 1. BEST: ALBURY: J Page, H Gilmore, T O’Brien, B O’Hara, M Byrne, I Muller. NORTH ALBURY: A Gardiner, F Ramage, F Gardiner, J Weidemann, J Penny, J Reynolds.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

Albury 35 def by North Albury 44 Wodonga Raiders 52 def Wodonga 39 Wangaratta 64 def Myrtleford 41

Corowa R’glen 41 def Yarrawonga 33 Lavington 40 def Wangaratta Rovers 31

B GRADE: Albury 41 def by North Albury 48 Wodonga Raiders 44 def by Wodonga 55 Wangaratta 37 def Myrtleford 36 Corowa R’glen 30 def by Yarrawonga 55 Lavington 29 def by Wangaratta Rovers 44

C GRADE: Albury 39 def North Albury 24 Wodonga Raiders 48 def Wodonga 44 Wangaratta 35 def Myrtleford 26 Corowa R’glen 36 def by Yarrawonga 43 Lavington 38 def by Wangaratta Rovers 49

17 & UNDER: Albury 28 def by North Albury 48 Wodonga Raiders 48 def by Wodonga 57 Wangaratta 35 def by Myrtleford 37

Corowa R’glen 49 def Yarrawonga 25 Lavington 24 def by Wangaratta Rovers 49

15 & UNDER: Albury 52 def North Albury 30 Wodonga Raiders 35 def Wodonga 29 Wangaratta

Lavington 3.5.23 def by Wangaratta Rovers 8.7.5

BEST: LAVINGTON: Mason Plunkett, Thomas Goonan, Archy Cohalan, Brodie Nicholson, Isaiah Robertson, Damon Meani.

WANGARATTA ROVERS: Jock Correll, Trey Vincent, Harry McMonigle, Harvey Correll, Cormac McNamara, Cooper Gracie. GOALS:

LAVINGTON: Isaiah Robertson 2, Flynn Scott 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Oscar Clelland 2, Cormac McNamara 2, Preston Coleman 1, Jock Correll 1, Bay Pellegrino 1, Noah Scholte 1.

Wangaratta 16.11.107 def Myrtleford 3.5.23 Albury 11.7.73 def North Albury 5.7.37 Wod. Raiders 7.18.60 def Wodonga 3.5.23

Corowa R’glen 10.12.72 def Yarrawonga 6.5.41

ROUND 6 - MAY11

YARRAWONGA vs WODONGA RAIDERS

MYRTLEFORD vs COROWA RUTHERGLEN

WANGARATTA vs LAVINGTON

WODONGA vs ALBURY

NORTH ALBURY vs WANG ROVERS

BEST: WANGARATTA: Alex Federico, Nick Richards, Fraser Holland-Dean, Charley HollandDean, Michael Newton, Chris Knowles. MYRTLEFORD: Brody Ricardi, Zac Pethybridge, Ryley Bouker, Jaxon East, Bowen Calogero. GOALS: WANGARATTA: Michael Newton 5, Charley Holland-Dean 3, Fraser Holland-Dean 3, Callum Moore 2, Braeden Marjanovic 1, Bradley Melville 1, Will O’Keefe 1. MYRTLEFORD: Charlie Crisp 3, Brody Ricardi 3, Ryley Bouker 1, Lachlan Murphy-Dale 1, Levi Young 1.

SUNDAY, APRIL 28

GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: D Hope 1, N Jetta 1, J Marks 1, C Masson Moyle 1. YARRAWONGA: L Williams 5, M Casey 3, P Lewis-Smith 2, B Frauenfelder 1, N Irvine 1.

BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J Eyers, N Dunstan, J Longmire, D Hope, R Eyers, N Jetta.

YARRAWONGA: M Holgate, R Einsporn, N Pendergast, L Williams, P Lewis-Smith, C Wilson.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

3.1 4.3 9.6 11.11.77

ROVERS 5.2 7.3 10.4 12.8.80

GOALS: LAVINGTON: Shaun Driscoll 3, William Glanvill 2, Jack Driscoll 1, Samuel Hargreave 1, Tom Hargreave 1, Jake O’Brien 1, Tim Oosterhoff 1, Conor Willis 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Shane Gaston 6, Alexander Marklew 2, Will Christie 1, Brodie Filo 1, Alex McCarthy 1, Lochie O’Brien 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: William Glanvill, Tim Hanna, Shaun Driscoll, Benjamin AshleyCooper, Tom Hargreave, Christopher Annett. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Shane Gaston, Brodie Filo, Tom Boyd, Stuart Booth, Jace Mcquade, Charles Ledger.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

GOALS: BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 7, Luke Quirk 3, Patrick Bren 2, Samuel Dalbosco 2, Kieren Jamieson 1, James Love 1. GOORAMBAT: Dylan Beavis 3, Lachlan Boyle 2, Jamie Dunne 2, Duane Haebich 1, Travers Nolan 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Samuel Dalbosco, Max Rampling, Kieren Jamieson, Rodrigo Arguello, Michael Elliott, Cooper Thomason. GOORAMBAT: Charles Hunter, Brayden Wapling, Dylan Beavis, Jamie Dunne, Rhys Goodley, Sully Malay.

GRETA

*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.

A GRADE:

Tarrawingee 43 def by Bonnie Doon 45

Whorouly 34 def by King Valley 41

B GRADE:

Tarrawingee 33 def by Bonnie Doon 54

Whorouly 51 def King Valley 27

B RESERVE:

Tarrawingee 30 def by Bonnie Doon 58

Whorouly 47 def King Valley 30

C GRADE:

Tarrawingee 16 def by Bonnie Doon 65

Whorouly 33 def by King Valley 41

15 & UNDER:

Tarrawingee 7 def by Bonnie Doon 48

Whorouly 24 def King Valley 16 Not all scores available at time of print.

ROUND 7

SATURDAY, MAY 11

BENALLA vs KING VALLEY

GRETA vs WHOROULY

GOORAMBAT vs BONNIE DOON NORTH

WANGARATTA vs TARRAWINGEE

MOYHU vs MILAWA

BRIGHT - BYE

GOALS: GRETA Cody Crawford 7, James McClounan 6, Frazer Judd 3, Tyler Arrowsmith 2, Lachie Kennett 2, Brenton Newbold 2, Frazer Dent 1, Dale Walker 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Sam Cox 2, David Button 1, Dylan Sinclair 1, Jordan Smith 1. BEST: GRETA: Jack Kelly, James McClounan, Mark Wettern, Lachie Kennett, Jack Baker, Dale Walker. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Sam Cox, Tom Levy, Chelton Orchard, Jayden Brady, Dwaine Lancaster, Damian Broughton.

MILAWA

NTH WANGARATTA 3.2

GOALS: MILAWA: Brady Bartlett 3, Matt Graham 3, Braydon Kearns 2, Jarryd Wallace 2, James Flynn 1, Jared Lea 1, Simon Pane 1, Steven Williamson 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: Tyler Nanson 2, Damien Bradley 1. BEST: MILAWA: James Flynn, xavier Ham, Jarryd Wallace, Brady Bartlett, Kyle Collisson, Brandon Fitzpatrick. NORTH WANGARATTA: Andrew Knights, Sean Gales, Matthew Curtis, Kyle McQuade, Adam Enever, Tyler Nanson.

GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: Sam Peters 3, Austin Amery 1, Reiley Murtagh 1, William Sharp 1. BONNIE DOON: Al Bennett 7, Luke Murray 5, Will Foster 4, Conor Heaslip 4, Connor Humphrey 3, James Law 3, Sean Campitelli 2, Campbell Smedley 2, James Fox 1, Matthew Hedin 1, Patrick Revell 1. BEST: TARRAWINGEE: Sam Piper, William Styles, Hugh Amery, Jarrod Everitt, Daniel Everitt. BONNIE DOON: Peter Cairns, Jack Goonan, Matthew Hedin, Luke Murray, Conor Heaslip, Will Foster.

GOALS: WHOROULY: Andrew Newton 2, Joshua Newton 2, Samuel Ferguson 1, Daniel Harris 1, Jacob Penn 1. KING VALLEY: Anthony Ciancio 2, Daniel Maples 1, Hayden Sims 1, Ryan Wait 1, Beau Wheeler 1. BEST: WHOROULY: William Allen, Darcy O’Shannessy, Samuel Ferguson, Cameron Wood, Andrew Newton, Daniel Harris. KING VALLEY: Charlie Davies, Ryan Wait, Sam Evans, Parker Voigt, Connor Shanley, Thomas Stewart.

Kane Fitzpatrick, Marc Costenaro, Harrison Colville, Jarrod Lewin. KING VALLEY: Josh Kelly, Daniel Eldridge, Beau Dickson, Jack Parrott, David Lang, Harry White.

Roos outlast Whorouly by a point, Bombers belt Bulldogs MATCH REVIEWS

By NATHAN DE VRIES

IT came down to the wire at the Whorouly Recreation Reserve on Saturday, with King Valley stunning the home side with a one-point win 6.13 (49) to 7.6 (48).

Whorouly had the run of play early, with five unanswered goals through the first quarter.

A contested second term saw King Valley kick their first through Beau Wheeler, but the Lions’ ball and forward 50 execution saw the home side lead by 25 points heading into half-time.

Momentum continued to go the way of the Lions after the break, but the footy was far from free flowing.

Pressure at the contest saw the Roos kick their second, and the backs were able withstand Whorouly’s forward 50 entries to start to fight their way back into the match.

A goal to Dan Maples brought King Valley within four points of the Lions, and the pressure was elevated even more.

Ryan Wait took an intercept mark in the Roos’ forward 50 and slotted the goal, and the Lions were unable to find a major in reply.

Charlie Davies and Sam Evans were massive for

King Valley, with Anthony Ciancio the only multiple goal kicker, while Will Allen, Sam Ferguson and Darcy O’Shannessy were among the best on ground for the Lions.

Elsewhere, Bonnie Doon enjoyed a percentage boosting win over Tarrawingee, the reigning premiers taking the points comfortably 33.14 (212) to the Bulldogs’ 7.1 (43).

A nine goal opening quarter for the Bombers set the tone for the day, with Bonnie Doon’s Al Bennett leading all comers with seven goals to his name by the final siren.

The Bombers’ accuracy was on display early, with the visitors kicking 18.5 at half-time, but as the game wore on the radar started to drift

Sam Peters led the goal kicking for Tarrawingee with three goals, while Sam Piper, Will Styles, and Hugh Amery all performed well.

Bonnie Doon’s Peter Cairns was immense, as were Jack Goonan, Will Foster and Matt Hedin.

In other matches, Bright took a 49-point win over Goorambat 16.14 (110) to 9.7 (61), Milawa defeated North Wangaratta 14.13 (97) to 3.7 (25), and Greta smashed Benalla All Blacks 24.28 (172) to 5.6 (36).

Milawa ran out 72-point winners over North Wangaratta Hawks, record third win of the year

■ From back page

Before the start of the senior match, footballers and netballers from both clubs linked arms and paid respect to those who have lost their lives to family violence and made a commitment to never allow such action in their clubs and communities.

North Wangaratta coach Steve Manning, thanked both clubs for coming together to stand against family violence.

“We’ve been playing you (Milawa) for 132 years, and I don’t think we’ve ever stood side by side like this before a game,” he said.

“It’s an historic moment, but it’s a powerful one, because the message today is very important.

“Domestic, family violence, it needs to stop.

“It’s a really hard and complex and massive issue Australia-wide, how do we fix it Australia-wide, we can’t – as individuals, we can’t do anything, but we can make a hell of a difference here in our community.

“I thought it would be a really great opportunity to bring two strong clubs together, and stand arm in arm and say enough is enough.

“It doesn’t end here, it only starts here – the conversations started with our two clubs and they’re starting across the league and the region.

“Clubs are jumping on board because they should, it’s the least we can do as sporting clubs.”

HANGER: Jack Goonan takes a ripping mark.

GOING NOWHERE: Brandon Igri wraps up Al Bennett.

MILESTONE: Daniel Everitt is chaired off the ground after his 350th game.

HIT OUT: Bonnie Doon’s Matt Hedin soars over Lucas Allan in the Bombers’ 169 point win.

PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

DISPOSAL: Braydon Kearns boots the ball long. PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

MOBBED: Brady Bartlett is surrounded by Hawks.

CONTEST: Sean Gales leaps for the mark.

LIGHTNING: Jarryd Wallace tears through traffic in the Demons’ emphatic win over North Wangaratta on Saturday.

MATCH PREVIEWS

Murray screamer seals the deal

A SAM Murray screamer in the dying seconds saved the game for Rovers as they held on by three points in a thriller against Lavington at the Lavington Sportsground on Saturday.

It was neck and neck all day with the Hawks leading by 18-points at the main break, however, the Panthers rallied in the second half kicking 7.8 to the Hawks 5.4 in the 12.8 (80) to 11.11 (77) affair.

But it was the Hawks who

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

stemmed the flow with a Murray mark of the year contender in the dying seconds sealing victory.

Murray climbed on the shoulders of 191cm Lavington key forward Tim Oosterhoff, dragging down a clutch match saving mark.

Rovers’ unlikely star was 36-year-old ruckman Shane Gaston who booted six ma-

jors in the affair in a best on ground performance.

“It was good, a great game,” Gaston said.

“The boys just stuck at it – we’ve never been any good after a bye so it was good to get away with that one.

“They’re (Lavington) going to be a good outfit later in the year.”

Along with Gaston, Murray continued a fine season racking up plenty of the ball, while Brodie Filo was

excellent and Tom Boyd showed plenty of poise down back, clunking numerous intercept marks.

The Panthers’ midfielders Tom Hargreave, Billy Glanvill (two goals) and Ben Ashley-Cooper were outstanding, Jono Spina was superb in defence, with strong support from Jesse Hart and Chris Annett, while Shaun Driscoll was dynamic with three goals.

“Lavington made us play

their style of game and took us away from what we wanted to do and credit to them they just kept coming and coming all day.

“Credit to our boys though we had a will to win so we got there in the end.

“Doesn’t matter if you win by an inch or a mile, a win’s a win.”

The victory added to what was already an exciting day as Murray signed on as playing-coach for the 2025 season.

“For me we’re midway through a journey and last year didn’t pan out how we necessarily planned with some positional and personal issues that we had in the club and where we wanted to be in that first final,” Murray said.

“We feel like we’re building not only this year but for years to come, we’ve got some commitment from other players post this year, which I think is a great sign of where the club is going.”

ON THE BOOT: Alex Marklew sends Rovers forward.

QUICK HANDS: Alex McCarthy dishes a handball off.

HAPPY WITH IT: Brodie Filo celebrates a goal.

SUPER SAM: Sam Murray sealed the game with a screamer in the dying seconds as Rovers downed Lavington by three points.

PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

GREAT GASTON

WANGARATTA Rovers veteran Shane Gaston (left) steered the Hawks to a thrilling three point victory over Lavington, booting six majors.

Story: Page 19

Demons show class

Milawa ran out 72-point winners over North Wangaratta Hawks, record third win of the pg,yyear

MILAWA recovered from a slow start to record their third win of the season, downing North Wangaratta 14.13 (97) to 3.7 (25).

The Demons were slugging out of the gate, only recording three minor scores for the first term, while the Hawks ran ram-

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

pant with three goals of their own.

The quarter time break allowed Milawa to reset, and the results were plain

to see, with the Hawks kept goalless through the second quarter while the Demons booted four to take the lead by a kick.

Milawa continued to own the footy but couldn’t make the most of it in their forward line, with a 1.7 third term.

North Wangaratta struggled to move the ball inside their forward 50, only managing a solitary behind after half-time.

The Demons’ back six were immense, keeping North Wangaratta’s forwards from having any substantial looks on goal

and denying the Hawks a major after quarter time.

It was a comprehensive result in the midday match, with the Demons running out 137-point winners.

Milawa led from the start, booting eight goals in the first quarter on their way to a 21.17 (143) to 1.0 (6) win. The day was played in good spirit, with the two clubs coming together to take a stand against domestic and family violence, supported by Centre Against Violence in Wangaratta.

■ Continued page 18

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie