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Family’s fight for Caesar’s paralysis recovery
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Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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AND NOW IT’S GONE THE Green Street bridge, as Wangaratta has known it for decades, is no more. The bridge structure was successfully removed on Monday, as part of the Inland Rail works that we see a new structure developed over coming months. Full story page 3
Alpine Truss sold to national wholesaler
ALPINE Truss, one of Wangaratta’s three largest employers, has sold to national Independent Hardware Group (IHG), with the business changing hands on March 1. George Prothero, who will remain in his role as
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
managing director, sold the business to the IHG, which has supported local communities and family-owned
businesses for more than 60 years. IHG is Australia’s leading wholesaler and Alpine Truss will be its first truss company based in Victoria. It supports the largest independent network of hardware operators with more
than 600 branded stores and a further 950 Independent family businesses, located in metro and regional areas across Australia. Mr Prothero, who built the Alpine Truss business from the ground up 22 years ago, started with three staff
including himself - today there are 110 employees. He assured the community that even though the business will change hands, there will be no change to how Alpine Truss operates today. “Our priority is to con-
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tinue to service your needs to the highest of standards and with the same familiar faces and relationships you know today,” he said. “In fact, it is absolutely business as usual where I will continue in my role.” ■ Continued page 5
Mason Park Funerals
Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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Morwell man missing: has links to Wangaratta POLICE are appealing for public assistance to locate missing man Wesley, an 85-year-old man who is known to frequent Wangaratta. Wesley was last seen in Morwell on Sunday night, with police and family members holding concerns for the man’s welfare due to his age and a medical condition. He is described as being a Caucasian in appearance, around 180cm tall with a medium build and grey hair, and is believed to be driving in a white Hyundai Terracan with registration 1LF6ZP which could be towing a white popup tent caravan with a blue stripe. Wesley is known to frequent the Bass Coast and Wangaratta areas, and may be looking for a caravan park, according to police. Anyone who sights Wesley is urged to contact Morwell Police Station on (03) 5131 5000.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
WEATHER LOVING FAMILY: (From left) Georgea, Steve, Vicky and Chanel Randi were given an early Christmas gift in December when their nine-year-old Rottweiler Caesar walked for the first time in eight months following a spinal injury. The family chose not to follow advice to euthanise him.
TEMPERATURES: Wednesday Max 29 Min 10 Mostly sunny Thursday
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Sunday
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RAINFALL:
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Wangaratta
26.0 mm
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Lake Buffalo
47.0 mm
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Cheshunt
46.6 mm
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Family’s fight for Caesar’s paralysis recovery BY RYAN MALCOLM
*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Tuesday
rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au
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HEN nine-year-old Rottweiler ‘Caesar’ fell from a ledge and became paralysed following a spinal injury in May last year, Lurg’s Randi family prepared themselves for an anticipated 12-week effort to return their beloved hound to full health. The rescued drug detection and trained protection dog, who lives with 40 others on the Randi family’s Lurg Australian K9 Detection Unit property, had been playing in the yard when he overbalanced, falling three metres down a flight of stairs and landing on his back, before succumbing to full paralysis a week after his fall. What eventuated was an eight-month journey which included specialist visits, vet appointments, alternative rehabilitation and calls to euthanise Caesar, before the much-loved pet finally regained the use of his legs in December. Matriarch Vicky Randi said local vets had initially identified an injured vertebra in Caesar’s spine after the fall, but anticipated he would make a full recovery by the end of July. The family banded together,
He’s pretty much 98 per cent recovered – I don’t think he’ll ever run again at 20kph, but he’s recovered, he’s happy, and the bond we - VICKY RANDI have now (is special). hand feeding Caesar and helping him drink from a syringe, as well as carrying him outside on a stretcher when required, with the dog “loving the attention and pampering”. “It’s hard because you’re going to euthanise a dog if they haven’t got quality of life and if they’re not happy, and they’re in pain, but with Caesar – yes he couldn’t move or anything, but after 12 or 14 weeks he started to show signs of twitching in his feet and could lift his head enough so we could put pillows underneath him – and he was wagging his tail,” Ms Randi said. “He still looked healthy and very happy so putting him down just felt so wrong – but the question of are we doing the right thing by this animal (was there) – and will he ever get better as it had been a great effort to care for him.” Caesar continued to make gradual improvements, able to eat and drink from his own bowl, but was still unable to move his legs by November.
T
he family’s care extended to taking Caesar on the Spirit of Tasmania in order for Vicki and husband Steve to attend a pre-booked business trip late last year, however, upon their return, a visit to a Melbourne specialist advised the pair to euthanise their beloved Caesar, due to a low likelihood of him walking again. “I left there broken-hearted thinking that’s what we’re going to have to do, put him down, dying – because if you saw Caesar he was fit, healthy, eating, drinking, wagging his tail, barking and getting better,” Ms Randi said. However, Steve disagreed with the specialist’s prognosis, and the family contacted another “angel animal whisperer” in Michelle from Highett’s Dog’s In Motion clinic, who suggested Caesar implement a swimming regime and make use of a dog-walker where possible. The Randi family’s continued
NINE-YEAR OLD FORMER POLICE DOG OVERCOMES IMPOSSIBLE IN SPITE OF ADVICE TO EUTHANISE commitment to Caesar’s wellbeing paid off in December, when the dog returned to his feet for the first time since May, building up to a fast walk around the garden and exploring in a way several specialists had deemed nearimpossible. Ms Randi said Caesar had continued to heal, walking himself down a steep hill to the family’s dam, taking a swim and returning to the home by himself in late January. She said his recovery was a testament to the support and advice offered by the Glenrowan Veterinary Clinic, Arthur’s House Specialist Animal Centre, which she said had been keen to learn from Caesar’s rehabilitation, and Dogs in Motion. “A month ago, or two weeks ago, he’d go down to the pool and he couldn’t walk by himself back up the hill,” Ms Randi said. “He’s pretty much 98 per cent recovered – I don’t think he’ll ever run again at 20kph, but he’s recovered, he’s happy, and the bond we have now (is special). “I was going to listen to that specialist if it wasn’t for my husband – I was going to put Caesar down, but we didn’t and I feel so blessed and so proud of us and so proud of Caesar for doing what we did.”
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 3
Haines backs tax cut plan INDEPENDENT Indi MP Helen Haines has thrown her support behind proposed taxation changes which she says would benefit as many as 95 per cent of Indi taxpayers, while calling for additional cost of living supports to be introduced. Legislation surrounding Labor’s proposed stage three tax cuts was expected to be introduced to Australian
BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au
Parliament by treasurer Jim Chalmers yesterday afternoon, in a move which will see a 37 per cent tax rate reintroduced after initially being abolished by the former Coalition government. Under the proposed
changes, incomes between $18,200 and $45,000 will pay a 16 per cent tax, a 30pc tax will apply for those earning between $45,000 and $135,000, and those earning between $135,001 and $190,000 will be subject to the re-introduced 37pc tax. Anyone earning more than $190,000 per annum will pay a 45pc tax. The previous tax cuts,
which were set to be introduced for the 2024/25 financial year, were set to see those earning between $18,200 and $45,000 pay 19pc tax, those earning between $45,000 and $200,000 subject to a 30pc tax, and a 45pc tax applied to those earning more than $200,000. Dr Haines said she welcomed the government’s proposed tax reform.
“Cost of living is a major issue in Australia, and I know many people in our region are doing it tough, so I welcome these reforms from the government,” she said. “As an Independent, I make my decision based on what is best for Indi – under the current stage three tax cuts, fewer than 40 per cent of taxpayers in Indi would benefit. “Under the proposed
changes, 95 per cent of taxpayers in Indi will receive a larger tax cut. “I will support the proposed changes to the stage three tax cuts to help deliver those benefits. “But this can’t be the end of cost of living support, I want the government to announce further measures to help people doing their best to make ends meet.”
Speeding motorcyclist given drug deadline
HEAVY LOAD: Each section of the bridge weighed between 10 and 16 tonnes.
Bridge disassembled on Green Street By STEVE KELLY THE Green Street bridge in Wangaratta was successfully removed on Monday as part of the Inland Rail project, with works starting from early morning. Sections of the bridge were different sizes and 12 sections were removed – six on the east and six on the west of the central pier. The sections averaged 1.5m
wide and were 12m long and varied between about 10 to 16 tonnes. The concrete embankment and central pier will be removed during a track possession in March. Station works included installation of drainage along a 200m section of track, removal of the unused ‘dive’ platform, and approved vegetation removal. The old dive platform was removed in 34 concrete sections.
A closure of the Albury line on Monday from 3am until 9pm was necessary to carry out the works and train services were replaced by coaches during this time. “Once the line reopened, only one extra freight train than the usual travelled during the night as it didn’t make it’s start before the line shutdown and was held back,” an Inland Rail spokesperson said. “Any freight trains due through
during the shutdown were brought forward to run earlier or cancelled.” A new bridge on Green Street will be installed over the coming months and the track will be lowered 2.8 metres to accommodate double stacked Inland Rail freight trains. Ed Walker, ARTC Victoria and South Australian general manager projects thanked people of the North East for their patience and understanding.
A MOTORCYCLIST caught speeding along the Hume Freeway with drugs in his system will face an ultimatum if he wishes to re-obtain his licence later this year, according to a local magistrate. Appearing before Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, the accused pleaded guilty to charges of speeding and drug driving, after returning a positive sample for methylamphetamine and cannabis when intercepted in October last year. Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said the accused had been intercepted by officers near Springhurst after reaching an estimated 124kph while heading north on the afternoon of October 28. He told officers he had been on his way home from work and his speedometer had been indicating he had been travelling at 110kph as per the posted limit. Police immediately disqualified the defendant from driving. Magistrate Ian Watkins noted the man had drink driving priors in the last five years, and heard the man self-medicated with cannabis. He said the defendant would need to make a decision over whether to give up drugs or give up driving upon the completion of a mandatory 12 month suspension. “You simply cannot be a licenced driver and a recreational cannabis user,” he told the man. He also convicted and fined the accused $800.
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Free TAFE eligibility is retained for 2024 GOTAFE is encouraging schoolleavers to make the most of the current expanded eligibility for its ‘Free TAFE’ initiative. Thousands of Victorian secondary school graduates last week received second round Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) offers for their preferred TAFE or university course, with four more rounds to come for students who are still awaiting results. Many more students are also applying directly to TAFEs outside of the VTAC offers process. Eligibility for Free TAFE was first expanded in 2023, with the changes retained amid an expanded course offering for 2024. It means community members no longer need to meet specific age, upskilling or reskilling requirements. Certificate III in Hospitality and Certificate III in Commercial Cookery are among the courses set to be offered free of charge for those eligible in 2024. GOTAFE acting executive director education, Luke Surace, said Free TAFE armed students with skills for in-demand careers without the worry of the cost of tuition fees. “In 2023 increased eligibility for Free TAFE saw some 1638 students studying a Free TAFE course at GOTAFE,” he said. “The eligibility changes made for 2023 have remained in 2024, with the addition of more courses and further opportunities for students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. “The Victorian Skills Plan predicts that one-third of jobs in 2026 will require skills aligned to VET qualifications. “Free TAFE supports training in those areas of high demand and those facing shortages.” To find out if you are eligible for Free TAFE, visit https://www.gotafe. vic.edu.au/freetafe.
wangarattachronicle.com.au
SOCIAL FOCUS
RESIDENCY: Ninetta Santoro and Elizabeth Willing.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt congratulated Layla Ramsay on her achievement.
CONGRATULATIONS: Mayor Dean Rees with Neil, Layla, Fay and Megan Ramsay.
Art friends gather for afternoon tea at the gallery OCCASION: Helen Hill, Anne Hiskins and Janet Campbell.
CELEBRATION: Pam Procter, Robyn Barrow and Helen Hill.
and acknowledge an outstanding visual art student in the Rural City of Wangaratta. Those attending took the opportunity to congratulate Layla, who was presented with a cheque by Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends Inc committee member Helen Hill, and to welcome Brisbane artist Elizabeth Willing who is spending three weeks in the region researching and developing new work for an exhibition at the gallery being held in 2025.
SOCIAL: Jan Vincent and Cr Irene Grant.
SUPPORT: Lucy Gardner and EmmaKate Vincent. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
Hayley on a winner with an amazing image of Winton Wetlands by night
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FRIENDS and volunteers of Wangaratta Art Gallery gathered for afternoon tea on February 1 to meet artist-in-residence Elizabeth Willing and to celebrate the 2023 Student Art Award recipient, former Wangaratta High School student, Layla Ramsay. Every year Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends Inc selects a local VCE student to be the recipient of the Student Art Award valued at $1000; an initiative designed to support
WINTON Wetlands has celebrated World Wetlands Day by announcing the winners of a photo and colouring in competition. The competition was run to coincide with World Wetlands Day on Sunday, commemorating the signing of the RAMSAR Convention on wetlands worldwide. Benalla’s Hayley Warnock took out the lion’s share of the prizes, winning both the wildlife and landscape categories. Project staff member Alison Ballard said the competition was a great opportunity for locals and visitors to share their experience of the site and showcase their photography to a broad audience. “To some the site is looking dry and hot at the moment, but the many colours and interpretations of the site have been showcased in this
IN A WHIRL: The winning photo in the landscape category of Winton Wetlands’ photo competition. PHOTO: Hayley Warnock
competition,” she said. Winners for the People category were: 1st Row Thompson, 2nd Christine Tyrrell and 3rd Jen Lupton;
the Landscape category were 1st Hayley Warnock, 2nd Kristina Arnott and 3rd Hayley Warnock; and Wildlife category were 1st Hayley Warnock, 2nd Melissa Boer and 3rd Jen Lupton. In the colouring in competition the winners were 4-6 ages Charlie Pullicino; 7-10 Georgie Burke; and 10-12 Shannon Knight.
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 5
Assaults on workers and police lands woman on extended order
A WANGARATTA woman who assaulted police and local workers in a number of incidents last year has been urged to address her drug habits and anger issues, after spending almost three months in jail. The accused, in her early 20s, appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates Court remotely from the Dame Phyllis Frost correctional centre on Monday, having pleaded
guilty to a spate of offending which included thefts from local liquor stores and a number of assaults on staff members of local stores last year. She spent a total of 82 days in custody before her release this week, having been taken into custody in November following a stand-off with police at a Baker Street store, where she resisted arrest and spat
at a police officer. Her offending also included the assault of a service station attendee after the man refused to provide a refund for partially-used cigarettes, had assaulted an employee of a Wills Street store and had abused staff at a fast food restaurant in separate incidents earlier in the year. She was also linked to a number of attempted thefts in Seymour, and assaulted
a woman as she drove the defendant to Wangaratta, after the former refused to stop at the home of a family member of the defendant who had taken out an intervention order against her passenger. On Monday, defence counsel Kristina Kutija said her client had received an “excellent” referral through a court-ordered Forensicare mental health assess-
ment, and would seek treatment in Wangaratta upon her release from prison. Magistrate Ian Watkins said a combined sentence, with a 12 month corrections order, was the appropriate course for what he labelled “bad offending”. “We wouldn’t be sitting here having this conversation if you hadn’t been using drugs,” he told the defendant.
“People are entitled to go to work without being assaulted.” The corrections order will not include any community work, and will instead include provisions to address the defendant’s drug use and offending behaviour. Mr Watkins wished the woman good luck after handing down his sentence.
Mobile ADF careers centre rolls into city
Police warn of scam asphalt company
By SIMONE KERWIN
MYRTLEFORD police are warning the public to steer clear of an alleged scam asphalt company believed to be operating in the region. According to Leading Senior Constable Brendan Achammer, the company claim to be working in the local area and have leftover bitumen, but will do highly substandard and overpriced work. He said a similar group of con artists came through the Alpine Shire about six years ago. “They come up with a story that they’re in the local area and doing contract work and they’ve got some leftover bitumen,” LSC Achammer said. “The workmanship and the materials they use are substandard and you’re wasting your money.” He said the alleged scammers were operating at Club Savoy on Friday when confronted by a member of the public who questioned their credentials, believing them to be the same company that scammed his grandfather some years ago. According to LSC Achammer, the company promptly left and the member of the public contacted the police. He recommended anyone who has had works done by the company to contact the police and do not pay for the work.
ANYONE considering a career in the defence force can gather more information in Wangaratta over the next two days. Australian Defence Force Careers is visiting the rural city with its Mobile ADF Careers Centre, and will be stationed in the Holy Trinity Cathedral car park, near the Wangaratta Cenotaph, between 10am and 4pm today and tomorrow. Locals are encouraged to visit the mobile centre for an informal chat with serving members who understand the defence application process, and to learn more about careers which are available in the Australian Defence Force. The careers centre on wheels aims to bring the opportunity of a career in defence to regional and remote areas of Australia. In addition, the ADF will be running an evening information session from 6pm to 8pm today at Wangaratta’s Beersheba Barracks in Sisely Avenue. This will also offer the chance to speak to current serving personnel and ask questions to help inform decisions about future careers in the Navy, Army or Air Force. To register, visit https:/www. adfcareers.gov.au/events/eventsdetail/bb6nt11, or simply drop in to the barracks from 6pm.
By BRODIE EVERIST
EXCITING TIMES: Alpine Truss managing director George Prothero has sold his business to Independent Hardware Group, but he will carry on working in his role.
Alpine Truss sold to national wholesaler ■ From page 1
Over the last two decades, Alpine Truss has invested in the latest computerised sawing and pressing equipment to deliver to its customers tailored requirements. “We’ve also seen significant growth having added additional yard space, a mechanics shed, and frame shed,” Mr Prothero said. “Today, Alpine Truss employs 110 staff and operates 12 trucks,
helping to build in excess of 3000 homes each year. “Looking into the future, this is an exciting opportunity that opens doors for us within IHG’s expanding Frame & Truss manufacturing business, to grow Alpine Truss across multiple locations in Victoria and Southern NSW sites. “We will be able to expand our capability and see more valueadded offers that can only benefit our customers over time.”
2024 Season Launch C E L E B R AT I N G 1 5 Y E A R S Wednesday 7 February 5.30pm | FREE ENTRY Official proceedings followed by drinks and canapes 03 5722 8105 | wpacc.com.au
IHG said its network supports the growth of Independents within the hardware sector through IHG’s purpose ‘building successful independents’. “The culture of IHG is built on being a low cost and transparent business partner with an unwavering commitment to protect and grow a sustainable independent hardware sector for the long term,” Mr Prothero said.
Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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The Australian Quiz
WHATEVER way you look at the Stage 3 tax cuts expected to be passed in parliament this week, they remain a bad policy that Australia cannot afford. We couldn’t afford them back in 2018 when first put forward by the Morrison Government or in 2019 when the ALP went to the election in support of them before the full impacts of COVID and the Russian invasion of Ukraine were felt worldwide. It is amazing the government or the coalition have not mentioned our titanic debt during the politicking around the changes, too busy caught up in their own versions of what is truth and what is adjustment. The original Stage 3 cuts were the most expensive and, most agree, inequitable tax cuts in Australia’s history and even with the proposed changes that will barely alter. According to the Parliamentary Budget Office (Australian Financial Review) over the period from 2024-25 to 2032-33, the tax cuts were forecast to cost the federal budget $243.5 billion in foregone revenue, and although the changes put forward by the Albanese Government will change this slightly, it will still leave a massive hole in government income. In reality the cuts deliver the majority of the benefit to the minority (and richest) of taxpayers and, considering the latter suffer least from the current high cost of living and rental or housing pressure, the timing of this legislation is all the more irrational. The opposition and the government both had numerous opportunities over the last two years to torpedo this legislation for the benefit of the nation and both were left wanting for their own political gain.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
DOWN 1 Weapon 2 Magnate 3 Postpone
4 Parched 5 Arose 6 Blot out 7 Madman 8 Processions 13 Melodious 14 Inward feeling 16 Finds out 18 Was concerned 20 Bookish 21 Artificial silk 22 Grandeur 23 Writers 27 Charges 30 Attitudinised 31 Souvenir 32 Metal 34 Brave man
S M D A R E D L P M E D U S A P R O P E R G F I N A L N R E N E V A D A A M U S E D C A T T E D R U L E R S N L A T E R I T E I R E A C E S M I S S Y C A C C E P T E D J A R R E D P O R T S H O N E S T E L I X I R B M A R E S L E S R E G I M E T E E T E R S S Y N O D C L Y
ACROSS 3 Ventured 9 Appropriate 10 Jellyfish 11 Conclusive 12 Entertained 15 American state 17 Sovereign 18 Domestic animal 19 Spread grass for drying 20 Tropical clay formation 22 Unmarried woman 24 Anger 25 Top cards 26 Taken that offered 28 Container 29 Colour 30 Harbour towns 33 Panacea 34 Fair-dealing 35 Female horses 36 Seesaw 37 Administration 38 Church council
1
In 2021, Australian golfer Minjee Lee won which of the major women’s golf championships? (a) Women’s British Open (b) Evian Championship (c) Women’s PGA Championship (d) ANA Inspiration
2
What are the first names of the two people in the duo known as Hall & Oates? (a) Benjamin and Paul (b) George and Andrew (c) Daryl and John (d) Noah and Michael
3
6
Bob Loughman became Prime Which of the following words Minister of which island describes a person who is country in 2020, a title still held having or showing knowledge of in 2022? events before they take place? (a) Nauru (c) Kiribati (a) Transpicuous (c) Prescient (b) Fiji (d) Vanuatu (b) Pyroclastic (d) Turbary
4
An icositetragon is a polygon with how many sides? (a) Fifteen (c) Twenty-four (b) Seventeen (d) Thirty-three
7
Who starred as Bobby Brady in the TV series, The Brady Bunch? (a) Mike Lookinland (b) Barry Williams Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in which (c) Christopher Knight (d) Robert Reed country?
5
(a) New Zealand (b) Papua New Guinea (c) Ecuador (d) Paraguay
8
What colour is the horizontal stripe at the bottom of the flag of Palestine? (a) Gold
(b) Red (c) Green (d) Blue
9
What is the shape of the ring in Ultimate Fighting Championship tournaments? (a) Pentagon (c) Heptagon (b) Hexagon (d) Octagon
10
Agatha Trunchbull, also known as Miss Trunchbull, is the main antagonist in which children’s novel? (a) Pippi Longstocking (b) Charlotte’s Web (c) A Wrinkle in Time (d) Matilda
1 (b) Evian Championship 2 (c) Daryl and John 3 (d) Vanuatu 4 (c) Twenty-four 5 (a) New Zealand 6 (c) Prescient 7 (a) Mike Lookinland 8 (c) Green 9 (d) Octagon 10 (d) Matilda
Stage 3 tax cuts a luxury we can’t afford
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Sign up to shave, cut, or colour your hair THE World’s Greatest Shave is arguably Australia’s favourite fundraising campaign spanning 26 years - with more than two million Australians taking part by shaving, cutting, and colouring their hair, to raise vital funds for the Leukaemia Foundation and people living with blood cancer, in Australia. The World’s Greatest Shave, however, wasn’t immune to the devastating impact of COVID, and the single biggest source of income for the Leukaemia Foundation took a significant hit and saw fundraising figures drop dramatically. We had to pivot, and this year we farewell the beloved chins as we launch a new era of the campaign, with a vibrant, bold, contemporary, and more personal approach - to support the growing number of Australians impacted by blood cancer. The new-look World’s Greatest Shave celebrates the everyday heroes in our community doing ‘bloody beautiful’ acts of shaving, cutting, colouring, or donating. The new creative direction will feature real human participants and a catchy new slogan ‘That’s Bloody Beautiful’, which will resonate more deeply with Australians. There has never been a more important time for World’s Greatest Shave to be back in force, with more Australians diagnosed with blood cancer now than ever before - underscoring the urgent need for increased support, additional resources, and more funds. Funds raised through the World’s Greatest Shave ensure that the Leukaemia Foundation can continue to provide vital support to blood cancer patients and their loved ones, and fund ground-breaking research, in the hopes of one day finding a cure. We urge the Australian community to sign up to shave, cut, or colour their hair for World’s Greatest Shave by visiting worldsgreatestshave.com. Chris Tanti, CEO, Leukaemia Foundation
Farmers over 60 target of new safety campaign THE Victorian Farmers Federation Making our Farms Safer project (VFF MOFS) is aiming to reduce the over-representation of farmers aged 60 and over from dying on Victorian farms with the release of its new handbook, Stay Farming Longer and Safer: A practical guide for older farmers and their families.
Do you believe the Rural City of Wangaratta’s recreational spaces cater for all community needs?
FLYING HIGH: The Flying Fruit Fly Circus will present their new show Tempo at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on March 15. It’s part of a dynamic line-up of shows which will be revealed during the official season launch being held at the centre today from 5.30pm to 7pm, where the circus is also set to perform. Everyone is invited, with show snippets, ticket giveaways, food and drinks and more, plus the chance to collect the 2024 brochure and to book tickets. PHOTO: Ian Sutherland The free handbook is available to all Victorian farmers, and offers practical safety tips, information and advice that are critical to save lives. In 2022, more than 40 per cent of all deaths on farms were tragically in people aged over 60. The average farmer is now aged 63, and there’s been a genuine lack of engagement with this age group in the past when it comes to farm safety. It’s all about sharing information and starting a conversation that could save someone’s life. The handbook has been written for farmers, by farmers, while keeping front of mind the unique challenges that living on a farm presents. This handbook has been created with the goal to prompt thoughtful consideration of changes, both big and small, that can enhance safety outcomes that is led by farmers, for farmers. We hope to see a reduction of older farmers getting injured and dying on our farms as a result of it being available. The campaign and accompanying
handbook have been created as part of the VFF Making Our Farms Safer project, a free farm safety education and support service for Victorian farmers, funded by the Victorian Government through Agriculture Victoria. You can find the Making Our Farms Safer project on all social media platforms and download a free copy of the handbook at www.makingourfarmssafer.org.au. Danyel Cucinotta, VFF vice-president
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 7
Men’s shed relying on community generosity Countryy market hopes p to recoup p loss from scammer,, build for future By CHLOE JAENICKE THE Wangaratta Men’s Shed is inviting the community to their upcoming country market this month which is planned to help them recoup a devastating $25,000 loss from last year. The majority of the money, scammed last September, had been raised by Wangaratta Men’s Shed members over several years along with a $10,000 grant through Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines’ office to enable a major upgrade of facilities for the increasing number of members. Wangaratta Men’s Shed member, Mal White, said it was a devastating loss and they are hoping the generosity of the community can help them raise their funds to the amount they had before the scam. “It has impacted on the health of a lot of the men knowing that all that money that they’ve worked for has now gone,” he said. “Everything we receive goes into the community, we go out and help primary schools, we help nursing homes, we do a lot of work around the community and make donations as a not-forprofit organisation.”
Splash park pump blamed for no water By STEVE KELLY SPLASHING around came to a standstill on Sunday as people tried to beat the heat at one of Wangaratta’s favourite water facilities. As the mercury climbed to a top of 37.7 degrees Celsius, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, the water stopped squirting. Council director of community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan said they were alerted to a pump fault at the splash park in the afternoon on Sunday. “Our on-call team couldn’t rectify the issue on a Sunday,” he reported on Monday. “Additional parts were purchased on Monday morning and the park is now back up and running.”
Future Now exhibition here
COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER: Ray Steadman, Robert Barnett, Allan Vincent, Mick Villella and Peter Gay from the Wangaratta Men’s Shed invite members of the community to try their luck on the spinning wheel at their market this month. Currently, Mr White said they have around 90 stalls ranging from food vendors to car boot sales and have other entertainment including face painting for kids and the fire brigade and SES. People can also put some money in the spinning wheel where they can
win prizes donated by local businesses. “We’ve got over $4000 dollars in donations from businesses for our spinning wheel,” Mr White said. “We’re going to have up to 50 spins on the spinning wheel with great prizes.” They are also open to
more stall holders joining in. “We can cater for up to about 120 and we’d like to get more fruit and veggie stalls if we can,” Mr White said. The five-metre sites are $30 and stallholders who clean up their sites at the
end of the market will receive a $10 refund. The market will be held on Sunday, February 18 from 9am to 1pm at the Wangaratta Saleyards in Shanley Street. If you would like to register a stall call Mal White on 0431 084 380.
THE Future Now exhibition from the Australian Museum in Sydney has arrived at the Wangaratta Library and will run until June 4. The exhibition was developed to demonstrate positive solutions for the future and to explore the impacts of climate change through interactive displays. An official opening will be held this Thursday from 5.45pm to 7pm featuring climate and panel discussions with exhibition curator Jenny Newell, and free tickets are available at events.humanitix.com/futurenow-exhibition-launch.
Local author to speak in Benalla this evening
It’s time for ‘Show Us Your Wheels’ night
revenge, trust, and the delicate balance between seeking justice and preserving one’s humanity. Partnering with the enigmatic Colin McCarthy, Blair embarks on a journey to America, confronting her inner demons and challenging the boundaries of forgiveness. This evening’s free event will run from 6pm to 7pm, with tea and coffee provided. RSVP via https://www. facebook.com/events/261439143620909/? ref=newsfeed, in person at the library in Fawckner Drive, or by phoning 5762 2069.
THE North Eastern Car Club’s annual ‘Show Us Your Wheels’ night will be held again this evening. The show is at the NECC’s clubrooms in Nolans Lane, Tarrawingee between 5.30pm and 8.30pm. Owners of sports cars, muscle cars, rally cars, race cars, vintage and veteran cars, classic cars, trucks and motorcycles of all descriptions are invited to display their vehicles in front of an expected large crowd. Entry for display vehicles is $10 per car, while spectators will be admitted with a gold coin donation. More than 180 vehicles were on display at last year’s show, which has become one of the region’s most anticipated car displays. Ample trailer parking is available, and barbecued food and cold drinks will be on sale during the evening.
LOCAL author Jess McFarlane (pictured) will speak about her writing, including her novel ‘Widow’s Flame’, at the Benalla Library this evening. Driven by a passion for storytelling since her early teens, Jess’ journey stretches from crafting her first novel at 14 to becoming an advocate for disability, chronic illness and mental health awareness. Her novel ‘Widow’s Flame’, set in Galway City in 1898, follows Blair Ryan’s quest for justice after her husband’s murder, and explores themes of
CHECK IT OUT: Bring along your vehicle or peruse those on display at the North Eastern Car Club’s annual ‘Show Us Your Wheels’ night this evening.
YEAR 7 WELCOME BBQ & MUSIC INFORMATION EVENING SP RQ WKH WK RI )HEUXDU\ As part of our transition for 2024, we would like to invite year 7 students and their families, along with students interested in our music program, to join us for our Year 7 Welcome BBQ and Music Information Evening. The event will be held on Monday 12th of February at 5:30pm (for a 6:15pm start). Come and meet the friendly faces of our staff, learn more about the year ahead, and all that our Music Department can offer our students. We look forward to meeting you.
LEARNING MATTERS - RELATIONSHIPS MATTER - I MATTER
Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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Welcome foundation
WARM WELCOME: Students Nash Farrugia (far left) and Ella McGauran (far right) are pictured with their new foundation buddies, Lucas Mcardle and Jolene Joe.
Wangaratta Primary School GRADE five students Nash Farrugia and Ella McGauran are among those to welcome their new foundation buddies to the school. The new foundation students have enjoyed getting to know their buddies and learning the new routines of primary school.
IN THE KITCHEN: Students Edward Allen (above) made salsa for nachos, while Jessica Young (below) got started on the chicken enchiladas.
New arrival Cathedral College Wangaratta STUDENTS have embraced the new addition to the middle school area with enthusiasm. They climbed and explored the amazing sculpture - a generous donation from the CCW Parents and Friends Association.
OUTDOOR PLAY: An intriguing, interactive sculpture is capturing the attention of students in the middle school area, donated by the CCW Parents and Friends Association.
Holiday inspiration Wangaratta West Primary School
Creative kitchen Edi Upper Primary School STUDENTS and staff had a great first week back at school and enjoyed seeing each other again. They enjoyed cooking on Tuesday and made delicious chicken enchiladas, pumpkin donuts, sweet potato croquette, gozleme and nachos.
1
STUDENTS were eager to get back into learning after a long Christmas break. The grade three students enjoyed writing about their holidays and sharing their experiences with their peers.
WRITE ON: Students (from left) Sophia Cook, Miron Bennett, Gabby Sealey, Asha Thewlis, Tommy Wills and Lenny White shared their holiday experiences during a writing exercise.
During the time of the dinosaurs, was the Sun brighter, dimmer or the same as now?
2
What is amber made of? Is it a) fossilised dinosaur blood, b) fossilised tree sap, or c) fossilised jellyfish?
3
What is an alloy? Is it a) a mixture of metals, b) material strengthened by stretching, or c) a crystal with rotational symmetry?
4
How many micrometres are there in a millimetre? Is it a) 1, b) 10, c) 1000, d) 1 000 000, or e) 0.001?
5
Where in our bodies are red blood cells made? Is it a) in our bones, b) in our kidneys, c) in our pancreas, or d) in our brain?
For more CSIRO Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or call 02 6276 6643.
1. Millions of years ago, when dinosaurs roamed Earth, the Sun was slightly less bright. 2. b) Amber is fossilised tree sap. 3. a) An alloy is a ixture of two or more metals. 4. c) There are 1000 micrometres in a millimetre. 5. a) Red blood cells are made by bone marrow, the softer tissue inside large bones.
wangarattachronicle.com.au
THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 9
Forced adoption redress scheme now open By SIMONE KERWIN VICTORIAN mothers who had their babies taken through historical forced adoption practices can now apply to the State Government’s Forced Adoption Redress Scheme. The scheme, which is part of the State Government’s response to 2021’s Parliamentary Inquiry into Responses to Historical Forced Adoption in Victoria, includes a monetary payment of $30,000, access to therapeutic services, and a personal apology. It aims to provide financial redress and support to the many mothers who continue to live with the serious, complex and ongoing effects of the experience of forced separation.
The scheme is open to mothers who gave birth in Victoria, or were a Victorian resident but gave birth interstate, and were forcibly separated from their newborn babies prior to 1990. Mothers who have received funding through the Forced Adoption Exceptional Circumstances Fund (ECF) can also apply to this scheme. Application forms for the redress scheme are available online at https://www.vic.gov. au/redress-forced-adoptions, or paper forms can be sent by arrangement by phoning 1300 217 425. A State Government support team is available to answer questions about the scheme, and can help applicants through the process and discuss documents
REDRESS SCHEME OPEN: Victorian Attorney General Jaclyn Symes with Jo Fraser, secretary of ARMS Vic (Association Representing Mothers Separated by adoption), in front of the ‘Taken Not Given’ statue when Ms Symes announced the redress scheme in October last year. The statue was commissioned by the State Government in 2018 as a memorial to mothers and children separated by forced adoption policies and practices. which may be required. The scheme is administered by the Department of Justice and Community Safety, and is independent of any institutions that were involved in forced adoption practices. Jo Fraser, secretary of ARMS Vic (Association Representing Mothers Separated by adoption), said the emotional toll of having babies taken from them had been huge for so many women. “Redress is not compensation: how can you compen-
sate for the loss of a child? Rather, it is recognition of the harm done, and of our enormous loss,” she said. “It goes a small way to ameliorating the shame and heartache and feelings of guilt that have been imposed on us for so long. “We look forward to the implementation of the rest of the inquiry committee’s recommendations, in particular amending the Statute of Limitations so that individuals can pursue civil claims.”
Charlotte Smith, chief executive officer of VANISH (Victorian Adoption Network for Information and Self-Help), said the group congratulated the government for opening the first forced adoption redress scheme in the world. “We welcome the government providing counselling and psychological support, as this demonstrates recognition of the lifelong trauma and grief,” she said. A redress scheme for adopted people was recommended
by the inquiry committee and is under consideration. The redress team will support mothers with their application and answer questions about the scheme. Anyone needing more immediate support or information is welcome to contact: VANISH on 1300 826 474 or 03 9328 8611, email info@vanish.org.au; ARMS on 0400 701 621 or email: arms@armsvic.org.au; or Link-up on 03 9287 8800 or email linkup@vacca.org
INVITING NEW 2025 ENROLMENTS Galen Catholic College welcomes all families to our annual Discovery Evening. Come and see our new facilities, meet our educators and get hands on with some of our classroom and extra curricular activities!
Thursday
MARCH 14th 5.30 - 7pm
Scan the QR code to register or galen.vic.edu.au/ enrolmentandtours
What will you DISCOVER? Empowering
minds, enhancing lives, embracing faith.
Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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Smiles in the classroom and the yard as school gets under way By SIMONE KERWIN CAMPUSES across the Rural City of Wangaratta are now back in action for the school year. Among those which kicked off their 2024 last Tuesday were Cathedral College Wangaratta and St Bernard’s Primary School.
edral College RARING TO GO: Cath students Jack McLeod e Wangaratta year fiv re all smiles about and Caleb Rymer we t Tuesday. las l oo sch returning to
TIME TOGETHER: Year six Cat Wangaratta students Grace hedral College Ma Lyster and Tayla Watkins we rtin, Eva re pleased to be back with friends at sch ool last Tuesday.
PERFECT DAY FOR IT: Cricket was back on the agenda in the yard at St Bernard’s Primary School as students returned last Tuesday.
Perfecting the air.
DAYS OF THE SCHOOL YARD: Carter Petts, Austin Canning and Fletcher Ryan were rapt to be back at school at St Bernard’s last Tuesday.
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 11
WHAT’S ON
Wangaratta Performing Arts season launch THE Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre is celebrating its 15th year and will hold its 2024 season launch at the centre tonight. The launch will feature a special performance by the Flying Fruit Fly Circus and roving entertainment by Planet Bird Colourful Jelly Sparkle, plus show snippets, ticket giveaways and more. It will be held from 5.30pm to 7pm and entry is free, with official proceedings in the Alpine MDF Theatre followed by light refreshments in the foyer.
Australian INXS Show arrives on Friday ONE of the most authentic INXS experiences in the world today, The Australian INXS Show will play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre this Friday night at 7.30pm. Fronted by Dellacoma Rio, whose uncanny portrayal of Michael Hutchence has captivated audiences worldwide, the authentic six piece band will take you on a journey through all the classic INXS hits that have made them a household name for decades. Tickets are available now at wpacc. com.au.
yourstars ARIES
SUMMER FUN: Dance the night away under the mirror ball at the annual Outdoor Ball in Merriwa Park, with entry free and all welcome. PHOTO: Field of Canning’s Photography
Vatos Locos is returning to Wangaratta’s Outdoor Ball giant mirror ball always adds a little magic to the evening.” Those who come along can enjoy a variety of food and drink options from and array of local vendors, including a selection of premium local wines. Presented by the Rural City of Wangaratta, the event strictly prohibits BYO alcohol or glass containers and maintains a smoke, vape and drug-free environment (service dogs are welcome). Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dance the night away
DUST off your dancing shoes and get ready to party with family and friends, when Wangaratta’s Outdoor Ball is held in Merriwa Park on Saturday, February 17. The premier free event of Wangaratta’s summer social calendar, organisers are thrilled one of Australia’s top Latin bands, Vatos Locos, will be returning to get the party started. Known for their vibrant and energetic performances, Vatos Locos brings a unique blend of original and contemporary
Latin rhythms that are sure to ignite the dancefloor. Rural City of Wangaratta councillor Dave Fuller expressed his excitement about the upcoming event. “The Outdoor Ball is a highlight of our community calendar,” he said. “This inclusive event brings people together to celebrate summer and enjoy fantastic music in a beautiful setting. “It’s always great to see Merriwa Park transformed with sound, light and dance, and the
Pride Fair Day in Batchelors Green on Friday
Wangaratta Men’s Shed market
Siesta Cartel coming to Da Vinci Club
LINE Wangaratta will present Pride Fair Day, a familyfriendly festival celebrating LGBTQIA+ music and culture, at Batchelors Green in Wangaratta this Friday from 4pm to 8pm. There will be over 50 stalls from local businesses, community groups, organisations and food trucks, with free activities including face painting, jumping castles, lawn games and more, plus local musicians and performers including Bec Sandridge, Soggy Pockets and the Dumu Dancers. More information visit www. linewangaratta.org/pride-fairday.
THE Wangaratta and District Men’s Shed welcomes the community to its fundraising country market, being held on Sunday, February 18 from 9am to 1pm at the Wangaratta Saleyards in Shanley Street. There is expected to be more than 90 stalls including car boot sales and food vendors, a spinning wheel with over $4000 in prizes and family entertainment including face painting. More stall holders are invited to get involved with 5-metre sites available and more information by calling Mal White on 0431 084 380.
MELBOURNE band Siesta Cartel, which celebrates the traditional music of their Italian heritage, will perform at the Da Vinci Club on Saturday, March 2. Doors open at 5.45pm and tickets include a three course meal (drinks at bar prices) with entrees beginning at 6.30pm. Tickets are $75 for non-members ($65 for members) and must be pre-purchased, available at Humanitix, email dvsc.wang@gmail.com or call Pip on 0409 307 606.
and create memories under the stars, with plenty of room to relax and soak up the party atmosphere. The Outdoor Ball will be held at Merriwa Park in Wangaratta on Saturday, February 17 from 6pm until 10pm. It is free to attend, but for those looking to elevate their experience, VIP table bookings for 10 guests are available online at wangaratta.vic.gov.au/ Residents/Whats-On/Summerin-the-Parks-20232024/The-Outdoor-Ball.
Business Network event in Wangaratta MEMBERS of the business community are invited to enjoy an inspiring evening of networking and learning with keynote speaker Simon Kuestenmacher, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, February 22 from 6pm to 9pm. Simon Kuestenmacher, a renowned director and co-founder of The Demographics Group, is an influential figure in the world of demographics and data, and he will enlighten with his expertise in labor planning, workforce attraction and resilience, providing insights into the latest trends shaping Australia’s future. Presented by Invest Wangaratta and designed for local entrepreneurs, business owners and those aspiring to enter the business world, tickets are $20 (including a complimentary drink upon arrival and finger foods) available by visiting investwangaratta.com.au/Support/ Business-Events.
(March 21 to April 19) Taking some time out of your usually busy social life could be just what you need. You can focus on putting some finishing touches on those plans for a possible career change.
TAURUS
(April 20 to May 20) A misunderstanding about a colleague’s suggestions could create a delay in moving on with your proposal. But by week’s end, all the confusing points should finally be cleared up.
GEMINI
(May 21 to June 20) You might feel overwhelmed by all the tasks you suddenly have to take care of. But just say the magic word -- “help!” -- and you’ll soon find others rushing to offer much-needed assistance.
CANCER
(June 21 to July 22) Finishing a current project ahead of schedule leaves you free to deal with other upcoming situations, including a possible workplace change or a demanding personal matter.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Turn that fine-
tuned feline sensitivity radar up to high to help yourself uncover any facts that could influence a decision you might be preparing to make. Devote the weekend to family activities.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A state of confusion early in the week is soon cleared up with explanations from the responsible parties. Don’t waste time chastising anyone. Instead, move forward with your plans.
LIBRA
(September 23 to October 22) You might feel obligated to help work out a dispute between family members. But this is one of those times when you should just step aside and let them work out their problems on their own.
SCORPIO
(October 23 to November 21) Your ability to resolve an on-the-job problem without leaving too many ruffled feathers earns you kudos from co-workers. You also impress major decision-makers at your workplace.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22 to December 21) Newly made and long-held friendships merge well, with one possible exception. Take time to listen to the dissenter’s explanations. You could learn something important.
CAPRICORN
(December 22 to January 19) Be prepared to be flexible about your current travel plans. Although you don’t have to take suggestions, at least consider them from experts in the travel business.
AQUARIUS
(January 20 to February 18) A problem with a recent financial transaction could lead to more problems later on unless you resolve it immediately. Get all the proof you need to support your position.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20)
Daydreaming makes it difficult to stay focused on what you need to do. But reality sets in by midweek, and you manage to get everything done in time for a relaxing weekend.
Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
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KING VALLEY NEWS
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
Community embraces social bowls competition in Moyhu BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
LOCAL schools, community groups and sports clubs from across the King Valley region took to the green at the Moyhu Bowls Club on Friday night, to kick off the 2024 community bowls season. Round one got underway promptly at 6pm with a full complement of 16 teams eager to participate in the popular competition, where traditional whites make way for more casual clothing to reflect the fun, social atmosphere of the event. Among those taking part were Edi Upper and Moyhu primary schools, Edi and Moyhu CFA brigades, King Valley Fishing Club, Greta Cricket Club, Adult Riding Club, Winton Motorcycle Club, Moyhu Lions Club, Moyhu Netballers, King Valley Tourism, King Valley Learning Exchange, Sustainable King Valley, Moyhu Tennis Club and Moyhu Action Group. With over 60 people present during the first of six weeks of competition, there was plenty of camaraderie as each group urged on their teammates as they played their three games. The last teams were finishing just as darkness loomed, but players benefitted from the new LED lighting system recently installed by a local electrical contracting business. Club member David Waring said as some teams have been regulars in this annual event, the standard of bowls was quite high, and all supporters were
Gentle Annie Reserve public meeting A PUBLIC meeting of the Gentle Annie Reserve (DEECA) in Whitfield will be held on Sunday, February 11 at 3pm at the reserve, to elect no less than three and no more than nine members to the Committee of Management (CoM) for a term of three years. All positions will be declared open, and nominations are required in writing prior to the meeting. Residents of the area (no vested interests) are encouraged to apply and a DEECA official will be in attendance. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declarations are available from secretary James Nicholson via email to bakerylanewhitfield@gmail.com.
King Valley Arts meeting on Monday KING Valley Arts will hold its annual general meeting on Monday, February 12 at 6pm at the Mountain View Hotel in Whitfield. To RSVP, email hello@kingvalleyarts.com.au.
King Valley Arts film club screening
FAMILY FUN: Winning team members, Bree Finger, Olivia Baker (with grandmother Louise Baker) and Amber Finger, celebrated under lights at the Moyhu Bowls Club during the first round of competition. appreciative of their teams’ effort. “Usually, we have a different winner each week and as the bowling is competitive, all teams are allocated points for each night,” he said. “Last Friday’s winning team was a family affair with Moyhu Netball Club represented
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host an in-house movie, ‘The Terminal’ starring Tom Hanks, at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, today from 1.30pm. Indoor carpet bowls will be held tomorrow (Thursday) from 12 noon, cards (500) will be held on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the group’s clubrooms or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room. Social event next Wednesday, February 14 will be bingo, in the clubrooms from 1.30pm. VETERAN and family morning tea is held at the Wangaratta RSL on the second Tuesday of each month. The group’s next catch-up is on Tuesday, February 13 from 10am to 11.30am. All ex-service personnel and families are most welcome to attend. For further information, phone 0447 217 768. WANGARATTA Toastmasters conducts its meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street, returning on February 14. For more information, contact president Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881. WANGARATTA Prostate Cancer Support Group will hold its next meeting at the North Eastern Hotel (Northo) in Spearing Street on Wednesday, February 14 from 7pm to 8pm.
by cousins, Olivia Baker with Amber and Bree Finger, who caught up with their grandmother, Louise Baker.” Clubs are advised they can wear any colourful outfit they like to add to the carnival atmosphere, also putting them in the running to win a prize at the end of the competition.
Members and prospective members are welcome to come along earlier at 6pm for dinner prior to the meeting. Partners most welcome. For more information, phone Bill on 0408 552 768, Neil on 0427 214 856 or Frank on 0448 313 506. NICOLE Everett from Nicole’s Magical Cakes in Colac will attend the next gathering of the Cakes Decorators Association of Victoria Wangaratta branch on Saturday, February 17. It will be held in the food tech room at Galen Catholic College from 10am to 3pm. Cost is $20 CDAV members and $25 visitors (suitable for all skill levels). Juniors over 10 years are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. For bookings and more information, phone Lee on 0419 513 735. SATURDAY Quilters holds its meetings on the first Saturday of each month from 9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street. New beginner and experienced members are very welcome to attend. For further information, contact Frances on 0417 158 220. COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 9am. Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For further information, phone Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.
Clubs who play every week will be eligible to win the major raffle prize which to be drawn on the final night, on Friday, March 8. Players are reminded to be ready to go at 6pm sharp this Friday night, with Moyhu Bowls Club wishing good bowling to all participating clubs.*
SOCIAL CALENDAR WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue. For more information, email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Wendie 0408 495065. THE Wangaratta Artists welcome budding artists to come along, and established artists to exhibit in the studio at Batchelor’s Green. The group meets at the studio on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 noon. For more information, phone Clare on 0419 365 149. CYCLING Without Age Wangaratta offers free tri–shaw rides to the elderly, and to people of any age with disabilities or reduced mobility. The group provides regular rides around Wangaratta to people living at home, or living in care. For more information, phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am. Those who are able can meet at the main entrance at 9.30am for a 30 minute river walk prior to coffee. For more information, contact Dave
ENJOY a classic western when the next screening of the King Valley Arts Film Club is held on Tuesday, February 13 at the Cheshunt Hall. The club is showing the 1969 original movie True Grit, starring John Wayne as US Marshal Rooster Cogburn. The film club calendar will screen six films a year, on the second Tuesday night, bi-monthly. Doors open at 7pm for a screening start at 7.30pm, and annual membership is just $40 per person, with more information including a membership form at kingvalleyarts.com.au/ film-club/.
King Valley Residents Association meeting THE next meeting of the King Valley Residents Association will be held on Wednesday, February 14 at 6pm at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve. All are welcome to come along and have their say, with enquiries to kingvalleyra@gmail.com.
James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.
For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.
PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. All enquiries to 0407 311 899.
OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta. New members are welcome to join this enthusiastic and welcoming group of singers. For more information, contact Helen on 0457 269278.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral. All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062. WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street. New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448. GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start. The competition runs until 3.30pm– 4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. New players welcome. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462. WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome. Morning tea provided – please bring your own cup.
LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. Lifeball is a non–contact game of netball, designed by a doctor and physio for the safety of mature players, with no running, walking backwards or throwing high balls, but enjoying fun and friendship. For more information, phone 0418 574 404. WANGARATTA Table Tennis Association is hosting a new social daytime group at the Wangaratta Showgrounds pavilion on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon. People of all ages, from beginners to more experienced players, are encouraged to play singles and doubles in a relaxed, friendly environment, with coaching for beginners. For more information, phone Maxine on 0403 209 857 or Julie on 0422 321 456. • TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au
THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 13
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WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICES Birds of Tokyo Double VIP Pass Competition Terms & Conditions:
Participants must purchase Wangaratta Chronicle on Wednesday 7th February, Wednesday 14th February, Friday 23rd February or Monday 26th February 2024 and complete entry form. Completed forms must be lodged at the Wangaratta Chronicle office by 4pm Tuesday 27th February to be eligible. Original entry forms only – photocopies will not be accepted. The winners will be chosen at random from submitted entry forms at the Wangaratta Chronicle office after 4pm Tuesday 27th February 2024. Management’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize winners will be notified directly and announced in the Wangaratta Chronicle on Friday 1st March 2024. If one or both of the prize winners do not respond to notification within 12 hours, the prize will be re-drawn. Tickets valued at $119 each. Prizes cannot be redeemed for a total cash amount and will be awarded by way of Birds of Tokyo VIP double pass tickets, equaling four (4) tickets total to two (2) separate winners, conditions may apply. VIP experience includes access to pre-concert VIP suite, complimentary grazing table and drinks from 6pm, VIP lanyard with $25 bar credit and early entrance at 7pm. Employees of North East Media Pty Ltd are not allowed to enter.
EMPLOYMENT CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free q u o t e p h o n e Tr e v Anderson on 0422 200 761. PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482. PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade qualified, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.
Assessment Transition Coordinator - Full Time, Ongoing Earns 74,580 $90,558 plus superannuation. We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to join our team at Beechworth Correctional Centre, a minimum-security prison for men with a focus on preparing offenders for their release back into the community. The Assessment and Transition Coordinator undertakes prisoner risk assessments using the approved CV assessment instrument, facilitates the parole application processes including liaison with the Adult Parole Board and Community Correctional Services and provides a range of support and services to assist prisoners to transition into, through and out of prison.
PUBLIC NOTICES King Valley Arts AGM Monday, February 12, 2024, 6pm Mountain View +RWHO :KLW¿HOG RSVP hello@ kingvalleyarts .com.au
CLASSIFIEDS
WORK! 5723 0101
PEDIGREE Miniature Poodle Puppies, apricot, red, brown, and black, excellent temperament vaccinated and microchipped, many testimonials available on request, source number: MB238702, S I N G I N G l e s s o n s microchip numbers: available. All ages. 9 5 6 0 0 0 0 1 6 2 0 7 9 1 8 , Teaching privately via 9 5 6 0 0 0 0 1 5 9 1 0 7 0 2 , online video sessions. 9 9 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 2 7 9 7 1 , Focusing on techniques 9 9 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 2 7 9 7 0 , such as breathing, 991003002427978, p i t c h , vo c a l t r i c k s 9 9 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 2 7 9 7 6 , and performance. $30 9 9 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 2 7 9 7 9 , per half hour, $50 per 9 9 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 2 7 9 8 0 , hour. Contact Claire 991003002427977. Ph O’Connell 0481 387 0455 171 780 or 03 5727 0595. 127.
t %FNPOTUSBUFE VOEFSTUBOEJOH PG USBOTJUJPO BOE SFJOUFHSBUJPO JTTVFT BOE needs of prisoners. t %FNPOTUSBUFE BCJMJUZ UP BENJOJTUFS SJTL BTTFTTNFOU UPPMT XJUI JOEJWJEVBM prisoners.
NORTH EAST JOBS
CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101
LOST Cane walking stick, last seen October 24, 2023 in the Wangaratta CBD area, has sentimental value, please urgently contact Barry on 03 5722 9524, 4/16 Warby Street, Wangaratta.
CHECK OUT OUR
North East Shade Sails Commercial or Residential jobs Cameron 0402 563 562
in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer
If you don't use it...
t %FNPOTUSBUFE DBQBDJUZ PS BQUJUVEF UP XPSL XJUI DMJFOUT XIP BSF EJGýDVMU to engage individually and in group work settings. " UFSUJBSZ RVBMJýDBUJPO JO BO BQQSPQSJBUF EJTDJQMJOF JT IJHIMZ EFTJSBCMF
t %FNPOTUSBUFE TLJMMT BOE FYQFSJFODF JO IVNBO TFSWJDFT XFMGBSF QSBDUJDF FEVDBUJPO PS SFMBUFE ýFMET BSF IJHIMZ SFHBSEFE How to Apply 'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO BOE UP BQQMZ HP UP XXX DBSFFST WJD HPW BV BOE UZQF JO +PC *% VG/5463JANUARY2024 or contact Sheryl Mitsch at Sheryl.Mitsch@justice.vic.gov.au
2008 Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R 3.2TD for sale, $12,000 ONO w/RWC, rego (YXZ612). Contact Michael 0431 880 783.
Applications should include a resume and cover letter that details the skills, attributes, and motivation you would bring to this role. Application close on 18 February 2024
Classifieds Work!
Classifieds
GARLIC locally home grown, for eating and planting, A1 quality. Ph 0427 936 630.
As our ideal candidate, you will possess:
EMPLOYMENT
Phone: 03 5723 0101
1979 Toyota HiAce camper van, excellent condition, registered and RWC, rego (1TT1QS), price $10,500. Ph 0412 083 667.
This position will require direct prisoner contact.
t
W H E E L E R Earthworks, available for all your household earthworks needs, yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
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, S o u n d e r, $ 11 , 7 0 0 . Ph 0407 161 665.
FINANCE AND HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER (FTE 1: ongoing)
Borinya is a specialist school setting inspired by the Catholic story, that offers young people in years 7-12, an opportunity to re-engage with their education. An exciting opportunity exists for a highly skilled finance and HR professional to join our team in 2024. For further details on how to apply and position description please visit our website: https://borinya.catholic.edu.au/news/#jobs or email ksaunders@borinya.catholic.edu.au Applications close on Sunday, February 25, 2024 Borinya is committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children. Borinya embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply. Looking for a change of direction? Find your next job in the classified section of the
CARAVANS & CAMPERS
JAYCO 2008 tandem axle 18’6 pop-top, excellent condition, shower toilet combo, oven, solar and battery, full annex, HWS, $25,000. Ph 0409 861 804.
FRANKLIN Arrow 20ft retro caravan, end bedroom, fridge, stove, sound, original features, free delivery 50km radius, $6000. Ph 03 5728 2667.
2 0 0 8 F a l c o n Tr a y Ute, 6 speed manual, 294,150km, will come with a RWC, (ZZC298), $5950. Ph 0438 095 329.
MY 2019 Nissan Juke Nismo RS, AWD, auto in stunning black, this fun packed small 5 Dr hatchback has been lovingly cared for by present older owner, regretful sale, making way for campervan, less than 25,000kms RQ FORFN 0DQV¿HOG DOO books, service records, keys, RWC etc, reg (BOP081), $26,750. Call Paul on 0488 444 650. OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
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5723 0101
Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Personal Notices LOOKING for a female partner between 60 and 70 years of age, friendship and companionship. Please reply by email robertmccalman58@ gmail.com
IN MEMORIAM
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TODAY
31o
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Heavy showers
31o 30o 31o TUE
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
residential, rural and commercial properties, with numerous buyers undeterred by interest rates reaching a 12-year high prompted by a cash rate of 4.35 per cent. While borrowing is more difficult than what it was 18
months ago, Mr McKenzie said they’re back to more traditional ratios in terms of savings and buyer capacity to service loans. “January has been really good and anything that’s priced attractive to the market place is strong,” he said. While there was a little uncertainty from Nutrien Harcourts heading into the New Year, in terms of the level
of activity to be expected, the local real estate market has been reasonably buoyant. With high interest rates, first home buyers are virtually non-existent at this point in time and based on recent sales Mr McKenzie said the properties have been selling to second home buyers, with commercial selling to people who are “pretty ready to go” financially.
“We had a rural property sell to neighbours, one in Oleander Terrace went to a second home buyer, Steane Street went to people downsizing, and anything central and close to the hospital and CBD is popular,” he said. “Some of the residential properties that have sold through Nutrien Harcourts in January were priced at $660k,
$639k, $635k, $475k, and $515k.” Real Estate Institute of Victoria data for the December quarter shows the median sale price for Wangaratta was at $510k, down 1.4pc, and this compares to the regional Vic figures of $616k and +1.7pc, but based on last year’s trend, this is set to climb. ■ Continued page 2
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Local News. Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January
SOCIAL FOCUS
15, 2021 wangarattachronicle.com.au
Charge up your engines
The Committee of Management, 0DQDJHPHQW 6WD൵ and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Jason, Karyn, Matt, Kristie, Mark, Nuch, Sarah, Ben and family on Peter’s passing.
THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,
2021 - Page 5
A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+. 3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice. 40+. figure. Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when were Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Secondary of scores Across the region Goul- median they performed reasonably terparts 40+, Mount Scopus of 30 with 6pc of College had across the state. burn Valley Grammar School scores a median of 28, Memorial College well judging by the VCE study was next 40+. Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved Clarendon College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.
Wangaratta students compare admirably
MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition. New members are always welcome. For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305. f INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty
wangarattachronicle.com.au
Country stacks up in VCE
with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly
after a year like no other
Wang Repair Café returns
c REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.
c HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.
c FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.
A
SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough
BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE
year local graduates Kayla Fisher
(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating
their university offers yesterday. PHOTO: Kieren Tilly
Teens look to the future with uni
WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday. The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities. Kayla, 17, has been offered a
double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra. “I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said. “It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve. “But, I got there in the end and am
looking forward to the next step.” Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.
“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said. “Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.
offers
“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.
“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now. “Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”
Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm. A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor. For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.
Home Care Packages for Wangaratta
LL W
O
N
Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need. Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.
Remember your loved one in a lasting way
THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm. The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation. Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.
CA
VOZLIC The graveside service to honour the life of Mrs Marta Vozlic will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery, Mason Street Wangaratta, on Friday, February 9, 2024 commencing at 2pm.
Sport
Established properties in Wangaratta district continue to change hands during January SECOND time home buyers and farmers have been dominating the Wangaratta housing market with numerous properties changing hands during the first month of the year, according to Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate director/principal Joe McKenzie. Nutrien Harcourts has been selling multiple
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Housing market activity humming along despite tougher times
P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
Phone: 03 5723 0101
A graveside funeral service to honour Alison will be held at Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery at 12pm on Friday, February 9, 2024.
Page 3
$1.80 INC. GST
Phone (03) 5723 0100
Magpies are on the march
CHEV FAMILY
Funerals
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FUNERALS
Market lifts at Wangaratta blue ribbon heifer sale
COOPER (left), Paige, Cindy and Wayne Branson were at Sunday’s Wangaratta Rod & Custom Club meet and greet that had about 60 people enjoy a barbecue and a yarn at the showgrounds, in preparation for the upcoming bi-annual Rod Run on the Labor Day weekend from March 8-11. The Branson family brought along three vehicles (pictured), including the red 1951 Chev, yellow 1940 Chev, and grey 1954 Chev. PHOTO: Steve Kelly
Mason Park
FITZGERALD, Alison.
FITZGERALD, Alison. 7KH 6WD൵ DQG UHVLGHQWV RI ,OORXUD 5HVLGHQWLDO $JHG &DUH DUH VDGGHQHG by the recent SDVVLQJ RI $OLVRQ )LW]JHUDOG :H ZRXOG OLNH WR H[SUHVV RXU GHHSHVW FRQGROHQFHV WR WKH IDPLO\ DQG IULHQGV RI $OLVRQ GXULQJ WKLV GL൶FXOW WLPH
Monday, February 5, 2024
www.wangarattachronicle.com.au
Honouring the Journey
DEATH NOTICES
Of Tarrawingee/Wangaratta. Passed away peacefully on January 30, 2024. Aged 89 years. Beloved wife of Thomas Edward Fitzgerald (dec). Mother of Thomas, George, Keryn and Joe. We remember now in love your life from start to end. Forever in our hearts. 7KDQN \RX WR DOO WKH VWD൵ DW llloura Residential Aged Care for the compassion, friendship and respect shown to Mum during the past 5 years.
THURS
Police identify alleged smash, grab jewellery thieves
McINNES, Nevan (Nev) “Poppy Roy”. 10/4/1931 – 6/2/2022 Miss your smile. Loved and remembered every day. ~ Nell, Helen, Robyn, Jim and families.
WED
Live at home for longer
For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian
Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer. Gardening and home cleaning Transport for medical appointments
Home nursing services Personal care
Caring local staff
Government, Melbourne
1800 242 696 or visit care.lchs.com.au
Latrobe Service
The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.
The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.
Subscribe now at
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 15
wangarattachronicle.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHERS Nathan de Vries and Janet Watt captured some action from Sunday’s WDCA One Day A Grade and A Reserve finals held at Wangaratta and Myrtleford.
A RESERVE COREY SOUTHERN
A RESERVE RHYS GRANT
A RESERVE BRANDON FITZPATRICK
A RESERVE ROBERT BARRY A GRADE CONNER FORDE
A GRADE SAM PIAZZA
A RESERVE JARRYD WALLACE
A RESERVE FEARGHUS JONES
A GRADE MATT WHITTEN AND NICK BLEESER
A GRADE
A GRADE
JOSH O’DONOHUE
PADDY MCNAMARA
Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024
wangarattachronicle.com.au
SPORT
Wangaratta A1 bowlers fall short A1: WANGARATTA pushed premiership fancies YMGCR all the way, before falling away late on Saturday. Wangaratta were in front half way through the match, however, YMGCR drew away to secure a top two spot. Chris Randell, Jodie Fruend, Paul King, and Jan Hermassoo were winners over Ian Brimblecombe’s rink (21-18), while Phil Davern, Greg Braden, Steve English and Greg McDonald went down by the barest of margins (21-22). Maurie Braden (14-26) and Trevor Selwood (13-18) both went down. Final scores: Wang 2 pts 69 shots lost to YMGCR 16 pts 84 shots. Wangaratta will host Benalla this coming Friday evening starting at 6pm. A3: Wangaratta lost its away game at Milawa on Saturday as the home side posted its only win for the season. It is season over for Wangaratta, having a bye in the last round. Gary Chambers, Denis Wadley, Ric Chivers, and Michells Van Praagh had a win over Marty Lane (23-17), while Richard Hermassoo, Ron McAuliffe, Terry Corrigan, and Bob McCalman defeated Colin Reid (23-11). Peter Selwood lost to Dave Allan (929) and Gary Fenlon lost to Terry Hallinan (19-20).
Final scores: Wang 4 pts 74 shots lost to Milawa 14 pts 77 shots. Milawa will travel to Club Mulwala next week. B1: Wangaratta secured a top three spot with a strong win at home against Myrtleford on Saturday. Ken Essenhigh, Lance Jenkin, Neil Jensen, and Gary Lidgerwood were big winners (23-7), while Richie Allan, Brian Godfrey, Terry Johnson, and John Black also won (21-12). Keith Izard, Gerald Brown, Sussan Singleton, and Gayle King went down (21-24). Final scores: Wang 12 pts 65 shots def Myrtleford 2 pts 43 shots. Moyhu 14 pts 65 shots def Benalla 0 pts 33 shots. Wangaratta will travel to Moyhu next week. B3: Wangaratta has finished with a double chance after defeating Myrtleford at home on Saturday. Lyn Kahlefeldt, Susan Bull, Michael Howard, and John Keen had a draw (16 all), while Howard Beard, Heather Coyle, Ann Keen, and Thelma Stones won (27-19). Graeme Norman, Lyn Sier, John Knight, and Bob Edwards also had a good win (21-15). Final scores: Wang 13 pts 64 shots def Myrtleford 1 pt 50 shots. Wang have a bye next week.
R READY TO ROLL: Brian Challman prepares to send down a bowl. INSET: IT’S AWAY: Phil Davern releases his shot. b PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
Rangers’ softball is back
WELCOME GRANTS: Paul Nigro, Anglesea Football Club president, Geelong FC captain Paddy Dangerfield and Telstra regional general manager Steve Tinker are excited about the Telstra Footy Country Grants program.
TELSTRA FOOTY COUNTRY GRANTS OPEN REGIONAL and metro footy clubs nationally can now apply for up to $20,000 in funding as part of the Telstra Footy Country Grants, which open for submissions this week. Telstra Footy Country Grants will give local footy clubs an $8
million boost over the next four years, with a pool of $2 million to be distributed each year starting in 2024. Co-funded by Telstra and the AFL, the grants will provide essential support for local clubs, to help with challenges they may
face such as growing the game for young girls and expanding volunteer networks to help alleviate current shortages. The grant program’s advisory board comprises eight representatives across the AFL, state and territory bodies,
community football and Telstra. The board will meet up to four times a year to review applications, with the first pool of funding to be assigned at the end of March 2024. For more information visit: Telstra.com/footygrants.
SOFTBALL Albury Wodonga returned after the Christmas/ school holiday break and ended with mixed results for the Rangers in round 10 action on Saturday. The Under 12 side had a win against an understrength combined Warriors/Comets team. There were some strong performances from Tia Wells (player of the week) and Madeline Flood, in trying conditions. The win elevated the Rangers into fourth on the ladder, with four more games left in the season. Later, the Rangers’ women put in a valiant effort against the league leaders in the Bundy Bears. The Rangers struggled early against some strong pitching, but held on early due to some strong defence behind starting pitcher Kim Flood. Unfortunately, the league’s leading offence worn down and broke out in the fifth innings to put the game to rest, with final scores sitting at 11-1. Rangers’ top performers for the day included Leah Dinsdale (two hits, one RBI), Sarah Warfe (one hit, one run), along with Makayla Pool and Millie Burbury who battled all game behind the plate. The loss leaves the Rangers in eighth, but still in striking distance of the finals. Next game will see Rangers taking on Drop Bears from 2pm at Jelbart Park, Lavington.
wangarattachronicle.com.au
THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 17
SPORT
Turner progresses to national stage A RIVETING second-placed state championships finish has Turner Pearson pumped to test himself against the best at the AusCycling BMX Freestyle National Championships this weekend. The 13-year-old claimed silver at the AusCycling BMX Freestyle Victorian State Championships in Melbourne on January 28 in an inspired comeback. Riders were given two runs of one minute on the skate park to show put their best tricks on the table, with their highest adjudicated run being counted towards the riders placing. During his first run, Turn-
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
er crashed hard to bring it to an abrupt end, needing to be checked by officials for concussion before being allowed to drop in for his second and final run. Turner said he took his time to regain his composure before his second run, where pure instincts took over. “Mum kept asking if I was okay to ride my second run; at that point I decided to put everything into it, I remember pumping up the crowd and taking a moment
to breathe,” he said. “I started with a backflip, landed all my tricks, and rode strong; honestly, I think muscle memory took over and before I knew it the final whistle blew. “It felt amazing at that point because I knew I rode really well.” Turner’s performance at the state championships earned him qualifications for the national championships back at Rampfest in Melbourne this weekend. The Galen Catholic College student will be competing in the under 13s and will be among some of the country’s best in BMX Freestyle riding.
Turner will be in action during the junior practice session on Saturday morning before going into competition on Sunday. As a first-time national’s competitor, Turner said he couldn’t wait to soak in the experience with his crew of family and friends right behind him. “The goal is to go to the national event and just have fun, see where I sit as a rider, work with the older riders to gain hints and tips and to gain self-development,” he said. “I love seeing my crew wear my shirts as I feel like it’s a big team. “I’m aiming to ride well and enjoy the experience.”
STATE SILVER; Turner Pearson showed plenty of heart in his silver medal ride at the Victorian BMX Freestyle Championships.
Reuben ready for continental sprint ■ From back page
PEDAL TO THE FLOOR: Reuben Smith is bracing for one of the busiest months of his up and coming track cycling career, with the Oceania Championships in New Zealand next week before taking it up to some of the country’s best at the National Championships in March. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Reuben said the change from three years of predominantly endurance based riding to sprinting was initially a shock to the system, but he has reaped the rewards since. “I’m probably more built for sprinting, as I’m growing, the body kind of decides for you what you do,” he said. “I wanted to do endurance, I enjoyed it a lot more, but due to the results from states... I felt I had no choice to choose sprinting or go home. “I’ve got a bit of confidence up now with my sprinting, the tactical side of it is going to take me a while to get used to, but speedwise I’m doing pretty well.” Over both Oceania and national meets, Reuben will compete in the under 19s men’s sprints, one kilometre time trial, the keiran, and the team sprint. The events present the 17-year-old an opportunity to gain a boost in
international UCI points over a short period of time, with the aspirations to climb higher in the ranking and be invited to more international-level events in the future. While preparing to amass a near 7000km travelled off the bike in the space of 10 days, Reuben said the hunger for competition and proving himself against the best will be more than enough motivation to see him through his busy program. “I love the feeling of being around fast people, especially when I live in Wangaratta there’s not a lot of movement when it comes to cycling,” he said. “Being around the top notch, fit people who are putting out really good times, it’s a different kind of feeling, very professional. “I found myself missing that feeling when I left nationals last year and rather than being nervous I’m really looking forward to getting back into that velodrome.”
B grade finals structure shake-up By NATHAN DE VRIES THE pointy end of the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s B grade competition will look a bit different this season, with an extra round of finals implemented to accommodate the top six teams. In years gone by, the B grade competition has featured just two weeks of finals, a semi-final round and the decider, pitting the top four sides against each other, with first playing fourth and second playing third. This season, the WDCA has seen fit to expand the finals
roster with a round of preliminary finals, commencing on Saturday, March 9. First will play sixth, second will play fifth and third will play fourth – from there, the two lowest ranked losers from the finals will exit, and the four remaining sides will contest the semi-finals. For example, if teams ranked first, second and third all win their preliminary final matches, the teams ranked fifth and sixth will be eliminated, and the team ranked fourth will progress despite losing. WDCA secretary Wayne Cooper said expanding the
finals to include more teams fits with the schedule and should help spur teams on to achieve a finals placing. “One reason is there are 12 teams, so it gives an extra incentive for more teams to make the finals,” he said. “It fits with C grade having a pre-finals bye, it fits that week as well. “It was voted on by the executive at the start of the year – someone suggested it and it obviously got passed. “We’re just doing something different, and having more teams in the finals is always good.” WDCA rules state B grade
semi-finals and grand finals must be played on a turf wicket, but the executive will make a decision on preliminary final grounds closer to the date. “Preferably they’d be played on turf, but if a club with a hard wicket has won the right to a home final, they would. “I expect the B grade grand final however will be played on turf.” The B grade top six currently consists of Benalla Bushrangers, Milawa, Greta, Yarrawonga Mulwala, Rutherglen United and Rovers Unit- FINALS CONTENDER: Milawa’s B grade side currently ed Bruck with four matches sits second on the ladder ahead of the new top six remaining before finals. finals series. PHOTO: Janet Watt
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Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season
GRAND FINAL REVIEWS: February 4
Ovens Valley United claim maiden one-day A grade title BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
OVENS Valley United are A grade one-day premiers for the first time in the club’s history. The maiden title came from Sunday’s clash with Rovers United Bruck, with the Tigers chasing down the Hawks’ 98 run total with three wickets in hand and more than six overs still to come. Conner Forde and James Neary struck early with the ball after the Tigers lost the toss, with RUB floundering at 3/18. Hawks’ skipper Paddy McNamara and Josh O’Donohue (30 from 74) occupied the crease and helped the score tick along, before McNamara skied one to the waiting hands of Sam Piazza at mid-on to have RUB 4/45. After a sharp piece of fielding from Kane Fitzpatrick to remove the dangerous Matt Whitten for 17, the Hawks’ tail flopped, with Forde (2/8 from five overs) the pick of the bowlers. It’s often said the smallest totals are the toughest to chase, and the Tigers cer-
PREMIERS: OVUCC’s A grade premiership winning squad (back, from left) Nick Bleeser, Cooper Thomason, Gurjot Gosal, Nick Impink, James Neary, Sam Piazza, Glenn White, Marcus Richards (scorer), (front from left) Conner Forde, Tyler Thomason, Dylan Bursill (c), Seamus Phillips, and Kane Fitzpatrick. tainly found that true, finding themselves at 4/30 after nine overs thanks to early scalps by Jacob Schonafinger (3/19 from eight overs). Nick Bleeser (16 from 31 balls), Cooper Thomason (37 from 89) and Conner Forde (14 from 44) helped steady the innings and rotate the
strike, as the runs required gradually dropped off. Thomason started to slash into the gaps, with chances flying just wide of fielders, until he was finally caught with three runs to win, with Sam Piazza securing the victory off his second ball. Ovens Valley United skip-
per Dylan Bursill said it was one of the greatest wins in the club’s history. “For the club and volunteers and everyone who’s been on the committee in our short history of our club, it’s huge,” he said. “This is what we play for, this is what our committee
and our volunteers do all the work for, to get trophies in the cabinet, and it’s just great for the players as well. “Conner (Forde) usually takes a while to get an over on a Saturday, we usually use him through the middle period. “He bowled outstandingly,
he got a couple of huge wickets in their top order.” Bursill said the chase was always going to be difficult, but his batters performed their role. “We knew 99 was not going to be easy, we were going to have to really have a lot of things go our way to get that, because we know that Rovers are classy with the bowling,” he said. “Cooper batted superbly, didn’t give a chance until later in his innings, and when he and Conner got together they were rock solid, hitting two an over and that’s all we needed to do.” RUB captain Paddy McNamara said his side just didn’t put enough runs on the board to bowl to. “It was disappointing for us, we just didn’t bat well enough,” he said. “We were probably 40 (runs) short, 140-150 would’ve been a good score, easily defendable, that’s what we were looking for going into the day. “We still bowled really well, ‘Schona’ (Schonafinger) and Jeremy Wilson (1/14 from eight) bowled really well, but we didn’t have enough runs to play with.”
‘PIES PREVAIL IN ONE DAY THRILLER By RYAN MALCOLM
PREMIERSHIP SUCCESS: (back, from left) Jordan Rufford-Sharpe, Rhys Grant, Brandon Fitzpatrick, Callum Honey, Lachlan Hadden, Oscar Timms, (front, from left) Rhys Delahunty, Jarryd Wallace, Matt Prestianni, Zac Wallace, Ned Gorman, Chandan Kulkarni.
IMPORTANT MOMENT: Magpies wicket-keeper Oscar Timms was happy to see the back of Jake Riley early on.
POISED: Callum Honey and Jarryd Wallace (nonstriker) put together a 59 run partnership to guide the Magpies towards victory.
WANGARATTA Magpies’ A reserve side escaped victorious in a heartstopping finale to the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s one-day competition on Sunday, leaving Myrtleford as one-wicket victors over Ovens Valley United. The current holders of the two-day Graham Kerr Shield added the oneday Brian Fisher Shield to their trophy cabinet in dramatic fashion, reaching 9/101 after the hosts elected to bat before being dismissed for 97 within 28 overs. Jarryd Wallace piled on the pressure for the away side early in the day, dismissing OVU opener Jake Riley for nought in his first over before accounting for fellow opener Marcello Vescio (9) with the first ball of his second as he set about attacking the stumps. Youngster Noah White (11) and captain Robert Barry (14) took to the offensive to push the score along to 31, however, a mix-up in the middle which left White short of his ground, and a sharp return catch by spinner Matt Prestianni to dismiss Barry had the home side reeling at 4/46. Stand-in captain Jordan RuffordSharpe piled on the pain through the middle-order, snagging an economical 2/18 off six overs to leave OVU teetering at 7/64, however, some late resilience from Fearghus Jones (8*), as well as some generous bowling by the Magpies in the form of 26 extras saw the home side continue to build towards three figures.
It was Wallace who returned to force his way through the OVU tail, catching the edge of experienced wicket-keeper Ben Henwood before Chandan Kulkarni ranged to his right at mid-off to catch the dangerous Corey Southern. And when fellow opener Rhys Grant returned to skittle Ryan Harris for seven, the Magpies had their target set as the sun began to bake the wicket at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve. If the ‘Pies’ bowling innings had been a dream, their batting innings got off to a nightmare start, as they fell to 3/10 when Zac Wallace shouldered arms to a seaming delivery from Vescio (3/14). Callum Honey (26) and Jarryd Wallace (28) brought some calm to proceedings, putting on 59 for the fourth wicket before a mini-capitulation saw the Magpies lose 4/5 to still require 20 runs with only three wickets in hand. Ned Gorman (15 off 13) batted bravely to see the Magpies close in on victory, however, when he was caught off the bowling of Jones (3/20), the Pies still needed five runs to win as number 11 Rhys Delahunty strode to the wicket. After blocking his first ball, Delahunty squirted a cut-shot past gully to level the scores, before RuffordSharpe’s flick over mid-wicket on the last ball of the 28th over reached the boundary and sent the ‘Pies crowd into raptures. It was Wallace who was named man of the match, with figures of 4/18 off seven and 28 with the bat complemented by a neat catch at mid-wicket.
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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - Page 19
SPORT
Change Our Game community sporting grants open
EYES ON STATE: Callum Bott, Declan and Mitchell O’ Sullivan will be looking to carry over strong form from the Victorian Country Athletics Championships into state championships in Melbourne from February 23. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Country championships begin road to nationals A HOST of Wangaratta athletes took home new silverware at the Victorian Country Athletics Championships. While the Wangaratta Showgrounds played host to the Victorian Athletics League’s finest over the Australia Day long weekend, six Wangaratta athletes were in Ballarat testing themselves against some of country Victoria’s best in preparation for the state championships later this month. Across the three days there, Declan O’Sullivan had a weekend to remember, picking up two golds and two silver medals across his five registered events.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
The 16-year-old took home first in the 100m and 110m hurdles, to go along with second placed finishes in the 200m and 400m hurdles. Declan said he was happy with his results overall. “I put in a lot of work in the 100m and I was pleased to come away with first,” he said. Also taking home gold from the weekend was Leo Woodburne in the under 14s triple jump to back up his silver medal in the long jump, Edyn Hill in the under 20 women’s 1500m and Xavier Pitt took in the under 20s
javelin with a top throw of 55.49m. Declan’s younger brother Mitch had his work cut out for him throughout the weekend, running in three events all against his brother in the under 18s. Mitch had a strong showing in the 200m and 100m and said the experience in the under 18s should set him up nicely. “A lot of the athletes were older and bigger than me with more experience, but it was a good experience,” he said. “It’s not too fun going up against Declan, he’s a lot faster and beats me a lot.” Specialist 400m runner Callum Bott took home silver in the under
18s, running a 52.10sec in his trademark event. The Victorian Track and Field Championships will take place over two weekends from February 23 to March 2 at Albert Park with a strong contingent of Wangaratta hopefuls expected to be looking to qualify for Athletics Australia Nationals Championships in April. Declan said he’ll be striving for a repeat of his state country success to translate into qualifying times for nationals, competing in the same five events. “I have been putting in a lot of hard work at training under my coaches and travelling up to Albury every weekend to compete,” he said.
New-look Supercars spin out at Winton today WINTON Motor Raceway is set to host 16 new-look Supercars for pre-season testing with the season opener just a fortnight away. Albury natives David Reynolds and Macauley Jones debuted their newlook cars yesterday and will be among the 16 drivers of Victorian and New South Wales based teams on the track. Jones, who is racing with his father’s team, Brad Jones Racing, said he couldn’t wait to wheel out the fresh new livery of his Pizza Hut Camaro. “There’s so many cool things we’ve got planned for 2024 and it’s going to be another epic year,” he said. “First though we’ve got to get racing and I honestly just can’t wait, we’ve been out of the car since November and all I’ve wanted to do since then is be back in the seat.”
NEW LOOK: David Reynolds will be racing with Team 18 for the first time this season today at pre-season testing in Winton. Reynolds joins Team 18 this season, reuniting with Mark Winterbottom and will drive the No. 20 Tradie Beer Chevrolet Camaro, which was launched with a burnout at the Tradie brewery. “The car looks absolutely sensa-
tional, the white and the colours will pop on track,” he said. “I’m really excited to drive Camaro for the first time to figure out how different it is to the car I was in last year but it’s a standard test day, we’re going to run through a lot of changes,
a lot of set up ideas. “I love testing, you get to go through a rife of changes, their one of the hardest days of the year because you’re literally in the car at 8:30am and you don’t get out until 5pm so they’re really full on days.”
APPLICATIONS have opened for the 202324 Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to support community sport and recreation clubs or organisations to increase participation, build capability, promote gender equity and support the professional development of women and girls playing, volunteering and working in community sport. In this round of the program there’s also a strong focus on supporting club or organisation initiatives that encourage the equitable inclusion of women and girls from all backgrounds and experiences. The program is part of the Government’s Change Our Game initiative, working to make sport more accessible, increasing local participation and providing opportunities for all Victorians to be leaders in their local sporting community. Now in its seventh year, the Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program has provided more than $2.2 million towards 461 grants that have benefitted community sport and active recreation clubs and organisations across the state. One such initiative was with the Benalla Golf Club that saw 75 women and girls participate in a ‘Fun on the Fairways – Girls in Golf ’ program. The nine week program to learn golf skills, game play and course etiquette provided a safe and supportive environment and resulted in a 20 percent increase in competition rounds played by women. Together with the Fair Access Policy, launched by the Labor Government in August 2022, Change Our Game Community Activation Grants provides a great opportunity for clubs and organisations to extend equitable access to, and use of, community sports infrastructure, and build participants’ skills and knowledge. Applications for this program close at 5pm AEDT, Monday, March 4. For more information about Change Our Game programs visit changeourgame.vic.gov.au.
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Turner heading to BMX nationals
Page 17
MIGHTY ‘PIES WANGARATTA Magpies took out the A reserve one-day grand final on Sunday in an absolute thriller, chasing down Ovens Valley United’s 10/97 by just one wicket. Jarryd Wallace took out best on ground honours for his bowling figures of 4/18 and his 28 with the bat. A grade and A reserve grand final reviews on page 18, pictures on page 15. PHOTO: Janet Watt
Continental sprint Reuben Smith is set to take on his first international meet in the velodrome next week MONTHS don’t get much busier for Reuben Smith as he looks to take it up to some of Oceania’s and Australia’s best in the velodrome. Reuben has qualified for his first international level meet at the Oceania Track Cycling Championships in Cambridge, New Zealand, with the championships to get underway on Wednesday, February 14.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
And before he can even be settled at home, Reuben will drive off to Brisbane for the AusCycling Elite and under 19s National Track Championships from March 1 at the Anna Meares Velodrome.
Y TODA UR O M T O I O VIS SHOWR NEW
Jetting off for New Zealand on Monday, Reuben said it was an exciting opportunity to be representing the green and gold for the first time. “What my coach is looking at is more so the numbers rather than sprinting off against other people, because those sort of tactics and skills take a long time to perfect and get right,” he said.
“Either later this year or next year, I’m just looking forward at the moment and trying to get myself in a good position to compete at these bigger events.” This year will be Reuben’s second appearance at the nationals, where the 17-yearold placed fourth in two team events representing his state last year. Reuben said while he
wasn’t able to finish with the results he was after, the experience of competing among the country’s biggest up and coming track stars was thrilling in itself. “I wasn’t doing sprinting at the time, I was trying to be an enduro rider; now that I’ve switched over to sprinting I’m looking forward to my results and looking forward to the
future,” he said. Since putting a further emphasis on sprint training on the track over the past eight months, the year 12 Wangaratta High School student has enjoyed a successful run in a short period of time, with his highlight coming with a Melbourne Cup on Wheels win in November last year. ■ Continued page 17
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