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A HOUSING development on Clarkes Lane in Wangaratta is heading to a state government planning panel hearing in May with nearby residents still holding concerns over the proposal. A standout concern is the land will be transformed from low density residential

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

zone to an estate of 230 lots where some of the lots will only be 300sqm. The location of the wastewater treatment facility at Targoora Park,

tra c management issues, including the impact to already well-used roads, access to public transport and impact on adjacent One Mile Creek are all concerns for residents.

Nearby resident Jenny Hart raised her concerns about the number of dwellings proposed for the development.

“If this development went ahead with 230 lots, there are three super lots with townhouses or multi-level higher density developments likely to be built on them,” she said.

“That’s 100 extra dwellings which could be built there, so we could ultimately be

■ Continued page 5 WANGARATTA’S newest mural has been nominated for an international street art award. And you can help vote for the eyecatching artwork on the exterior of the water treatment plant.

talking about 330 dwellings at the site.

“Yes, Wangaratta needs that kind of development, but compared to areas that have been earmarked and where all the other developments are happening, this parcel of land is in isolation.”

Ms Hart said farmland

borders the other side of Clarkes Lane, it has Cathedral College beside it, and Pin Oak Drive is low density residential.

“It’s just going to be this little island of 230 houses, with no localised allowance for any shopping, or public transport,” she said.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Local mural nominated for international award

By JORDAN DUURSMA

A MURAL painted on the side of North East Water’s treatment plant on Parfitt Road has been nominated for an international award.

Each month, Street Art Cities selects the best murals from around the world, with the top 12 making the nal shortlist for 2025.

Wangaratta’s ‘Dawn of Gratitude’, created by mural artist Julian Clavijo, is a large-scale mural of a child on the banks of the Ovens River.

Julian said he is extremely grateful for the opportunity to share his work with the town.

“I’m also grateful to North East Water for believing in my work and the positive impact it has had in the community, now widely spread beyond the borders with this big nomination as best of February,” he said.

NEW managing director Jo Murdoch said North East Water is absolutely thrilled that the stunning mural has been nominated for an international street art award.

“Renowned artist Julian Clavijo has created something truly special, and to see it recognised by Street Art Cities, a global platform showcasing the best murals from around the world, is an incredible honour,” she said.

“Each month, only a handful of murals are selected for this prestigious award.

“We’re excited that Wangaratta’s mural is in the running for February.

“We are immensely proud that this mural, which beautifully captures the connection between water, people, and nature, is now being celebrated on the world stage.”

Ms Murdoch said the mural also highlights the importance of water conservation, a message that is particularly crucial for the region.

“Water is a precious resource, and this artwork encourages everyone to re ect on how it needs to be protected and preserved for future generations,” she said.

“Additionally, we are grateful for the strong partnership between North East Water and the Rural City of Wangaratta, which made this project possible.

“The fact that Wangaratta’s mural is being recognised alongside some of the best street art in the world is a huge achievement.

“We’d love for everyone in Wangaratta to get behind this and show the world how much we love our mural by voting.”

To help put Wangaratta on the global street art map, visit https://streetartcities. com/awards/2025-02 and vote before 11pm on Sunday, 9 March.

BATTLE FOR INDI

EARLY ELECTION MODE:

Independent incumbent Helen Haines and Liberal candidate James Trenery are already in campaign mode, ahead of an imminent 2025 Federal Election date being called.

PHOTO: Image digitally created

Haines returns serve on Lib’s policy shots

LIBERAL candidate for Indi James Trenery has criticised the performance of Independent MP Helen Haines on the eve of a likely federal election being called.

While claiming that bad decisions by the Labor Government over the last three years has led to a high cost of living, he turned his attention to Dr Haines’ ability to bring change.

“The Member for Indi, Helen Haines, for three years has had no policy to get the cost of living under control,” he said.

“She has not delivered on issues that are important to us – in the past three years, Helen Haines has not got funding for local health services, like a new hospital on a new site in Albury Wodonga, nothing for Manseld Hospital or Alpine Health.

“In 2023 Helen Haines announced a housing policy, which she said could bring down house prices.

“In two years, not a single home

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

has been built under her policy, not a dollar spent.

“Helen Haines has been too busy focused on the wrong priorities, like campaigning for the divisive, nearly $500 million Voice referendum, and voting against things like minimum mandatory sentences for people convicted of terrorism o ences.

“Our communities are unhappy with this inaction and are looking for someone who can truly represent them.”

Dr Haines returned re, refuting Mr Trenery’s claims and said she’s proud to have represented the people of Indi as their Independent federal MP and she rmly stands by her track record.

“Voters are tired of misinforma-

tion and plain mistruths,” she said.

“I point the Liberal candidate to my cost-of-living policy announcements and my consistent work advocating for energy bill savings.

“In complete contradiction to his claims, more than $7.1 million in grants have been secured by local health services, on top of their regular funding, since my election.

“The people of Indi should be in no doubt about my priorities – for me it is always about what is best for the people of Indi.

“There’s no party boss from Sydney or Melbourne telling me how to vote, what to say, or what to think.”

When it comes to the cost-of-living, Dr Haines said a year ago she voted to bring on debate on a bill introduced by Bob Katter and Andrew Wilkie to hold the big supermarkets to account.

“In contrast, the Coalition didn’t even bother to show up,” she said.

“I have worked successfully with both of the major parties in government – the Coalition Morrison Government and now the Albanese Labor Government.

“I will take that same approach to the next election and base my actions and decisions on the best interests of Indi.

“The Liberal candidate has so far failed to outline any alternative policies for Indi; how he would in uence the national policy agenda, and how he would consult with the community in doing so.

“All funding that has owed to Indi is clearly outlined in my website and I encourage locals to take a look at the funding that has been delivered in their towns.”

Dr Haines also highlighted her enabling infrastructure policy to assist in housing development which both major parties have now adopted as their policy, if elected.

Mitch is Labor’s man in Indi election

By STEVE KELLY

LABOR has announced its candidate for Indi at the eleventh hour of the 2025 Federal Election being called.

Mitch Bridges, a 30-year-old social worker who has lived in Wodonga all of his life, announced his candidacy on Thursday.

Mr Bridges has been a member of the North East branch of the Labor Party since 2021 and he will take on incumbent Independent Helen Haines and Liberal candidate James Trenery in vying for the seat.

“I’m very keen to get out and about and in my work I work very closely to another organisation in Wangaratta, so I am across some of the real dire stu that is lacking in Wangaratta,” Mr Bridges said.

“Community services across the board are in a tight spot right now.

“In terms of family violence, we’ve made some strides but the mission needs to continue.”

Mr Bridges said he likes some of what Dr Haines has done during her

tenure because she has voted the way of Labor on numerous occasions.

“However, she has voted against Labor and she can’t make up her mind whether she supports policy like compulsory income management or not,” he said.

“She’s voted against abolishing the ABCC (Australian Building and Construction Commission) and I know there are loaded opinions about that but a very pro-worker MP wouldn’t have voted against that.

“I’ve seen while working in community services the power that a party of government has, and it’s all well and good that Helen can sit and vote for it, that’s great and we’d much prefer her than someone who is going to vote against everything, but at the end of the day systemic change comes from a party of government.”

Bringing down the cost of living is something Mr Bridges wants to get behind and he noted Labor’s $8.5 million Medicare policy, which includes increasing access to GP bulk-billing, as a way to al -

contest

leviate household costs.

“What we’ve done already is targeted support and we’re supporting young families in public schools, PBS changes, and urgent care clinics - which is a state policy as well - and the biggest increase to rent assistance in some time,” he said.

“These are de ationary measures and at the end of the day in ation is at the core of the high cost of living.

“We’ve made some smart choices and there are probably more smart choices we can make next term.

“When Labor took over in 2022 there were a lot of systems failing and the ship we had to navigate was ‘where do we start’.

“I feel like we’ve done a great job of that so far, but we need to continue in government to continue the job.”

Indi has been held by an Independent since Cathy McGowan beat then Liberal incumbent Sophie Mirabella at the 2013 election.

Dr Haines has served two terms as MP for Indi since being elected in 2019.

LABOR MAN: Wodonga resident Mitch Bridges is the Labor candidate for Indi in the 2025 Federal Election.

Police target March motorist madness amid rising road toll

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

POLICE are urging motorists to pay extra care and attention on the roads this weekend, as the region’s road toll continues to rise.

The warning comes as police launch Operation Arid this Friday, a statewide road police e ort targeting high-risk driving behaviour and non-compliance over the Labour Day long weekend in an e ort to reduce road trauma.

It comes as regional fatalities are already up 34 per cent on the same time last year, with 35 lives lost on regional roads

compared to 26 at the same time last year.

The North East region alone has seen eight lives lost on local roads including incidents in Wangaratta, Bowmans Forest, Glenrowan, Bundalong, Creightons Creek, Bethanga and Avenel.

There have been a total 58 lives lost on Victoria’s roads in 2025, higher than 49 at the same time last year.

There have been four fatalities in the rst four days of March.

Police said while March was traditionally known in Victoria for a full calendar of major

events, festivals, sports and entertainment, it was also synonymous with having the highest volume of road trauma in both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Acting Assistant Commissioner, David Byrt, said police don’t want to see another March with high numbers of injury collisions and fatalities.

“We need everyone to do their part, and our number one message is to stay alert behind the wheel and never be complacent – it can only take one second of distraction or a simple driving error for a collision to occur,” he said.

“We’ll be out in force across the state and doing our bit to ensure everyone is being safe, adhering to the road rules and not putting others at risk.”

Historically, March has the highest average injury collision volume of any month of the year, almost 10 per cent higher than any other month.

Injury collisions where speed was a factor, where a motorcyclist or heavy vehicle was involved, and young drivers were involved also all peaked in March.

In 2024, there were 30 lives lost during in March, the second highest for the year be-

hind November (36) and marking the worst March on record since 2011, with 34 lives lost.

Of the 30 lives lost during last March, more than half were drivers and two-thirds occurred in regional Victoria.

There were 10 lives lost in the state’s east including in Wangaratta, Wodonga and Shepparton areas.

These high-risk locations will be among key areas of focus for police during this weekend’s Operation Arid.

Police are warning motorists there will be zero tolerance for poor driving and dangerous behaviour, with state and local

highway patrols to be highly visible and enforcing across metropolitan and regional roads.

There will be widespread alcohol and drug testing, particularly around major events taking place across the state, with police reminding drivers that they can be tested anywhere, anytime.

Speeding will also be a major focus, with police handing out 2843 speeding o ences during last year’s Operation Arid enforcement period.

Operation Arid commences today and concludes on 11:59pm Monday, 10 March.

RSL Victoria Hall of Fame honour for Colleen

By SIMONE KERWIN

COLLEEN Davis, Wangaratta

RSL Sub-Branch veteran support coordinator, was recently inducted to the RSL Victoria Hall of Fame.

Colleen, whose induction was announced at a ceremony on 15 February, said it had been a huge surprise.

“It’s a real honour,” she said.

“I have my husband’s support behind me, and so many good volunteers; it’s really a credit to all our volunteers and to the RSL.”

Colleen, who has a daughter currently serving in the Australian Army, became an a liate member of the Wangaratta RSL in 2012, also o ering her time as part of the sub-branch’s women’s auxiliary.

She initially supported appeal e orts as a volunteer selling tokens, and a er making some suggestions about how appeals could be improved, formed part of a newly-created sub-committee in 2015.

Elected to the committee in 2016, she took on the appeals role, and since then has gathered a small army of workers, liaised with the Wangaratta business community and schools, and worked tirelessly to raise funds to assist veterans.

As a result, appeal takings in 2023 were 180 per cent higher than when she took over the

role, and the 2024 Anzac Appeal was another record for the club.

As a committee member, Colleen always has veterans at the forefront of her contributions, and this extended to her taking on the role as subbranch wellbeing advocate, to which she devotes extensive time.

Colleen said she felt a need to support veterans, who had helped guard the nation’s freedom and safety, and who were o en forgotten.

“They will only come to you when they need help, and they are very grateful for the assis-

tance they receive,” she said.

Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch president Lieutenant General (Retired) Ash Power said he was regularly approached by service members expressing their thanks for Colleen’s work.

“This was particularly important during COVID, when she initiated a weekly phone call to all our older veterans to ensure they were okay, which translated into grocery runs and welfare checks as the rules allowed; this ring-around continues,” he said.

“She also initiated a monthly morning tea to be held at the club for veterans and their

families, and this has proven incredibly popular, not only for local veterans but for those from adjoining towns.

“This social gathering attracts up to 90 people and is an excellent opportunity to once again allow the face-to-face contact that is so vitally important for our older veterans.”

Colleen has assisted some of the district’s homeless veterans, and was recently singled out by Myrtleford at a Region 9 meeting for the “clarity and depth” of her work in helping a local veteran get to the V Centre (veteran empowerment program) so his speci c

HONOURED: Colleen Davis, RSL Wangaratta Sub-Branch veteran support coordinator, with her fellow Hall of Fame inductees at the presentation ceremony.

needs could be understood and he could receive further care.

Lt Gen (Rtd) Power said this was typical of the Colleen’s efforts to ensure the individual needs of each veteran were met.

“She has been particularly focused on our homeless, and has written to both our local Federal and State Members of Parliament, drawing their attention to the fact that under the Victorian Housing Register, veterans as a group are not given priority to obtain public or social housing,” he said.

Indi MP Helen Haines has

advised that she has taken this up with the Minister for Veterans’ A airs.

Colleen has also worked with the Goorambat Veterans Retreat on a number of occasions to source short-term relief for the homeless.

“In all these instances, she has displayed the care, patience and stoicism that is required when dealing with our less fortunate,” Lt Gen (Rtd) Power said.

Colleen was recognised in 2023 by the Zonta Club of Wangaratta as their ‘Woman of the Year’, further highlighting her work ethic, energy and enthusiasm, and the fact that her support of veterans and the local community is widely seen and praised.

She participates in and encourages veterans to be involved in the RSL Active program, is always on hand when working bees are conducted at the club, and drives veterans and their family members to meetings, medical appointments and social outings.

A regular attendee at the club, she is on hand to assist when sta eld enquiries about local veterans.

“She has proven to be an indefatigable member of the team who in my opinion is a very worthy inductee into the Hall of Fame,” Lt Gen (Rtd) Power said.

Centre

State council body demands change to new property tax

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

VICTORIA’s peak council advocacy body has expressed its concern over steep rises to the re services levy for rural residents when it is renamed to a volunteers fund from 1 July.

The Fire Services Property Levy will be renamed the Emergency Services Volunteers Fund (ESVF) and the tax will double from 8.7 cents to 17.3 cents per $1000 capital improved value [CIV].

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is also calling on the state government to fund the administration of the new Emergency Services Volunteers Fund as councils cannot wear the cost.

MAV president Jennifer Anderson told the Wangaratta Chronicle about the impact of the ESVF on rural ratepayers.

“Many councils across Victoria have already raised council motions about their council collecting this levy on behalf of the state government; and concerns about the cost impact on residents,” she said.

“The MAV is also concerned about the cost shock likely to impact rural residents, with many rural councils modelling signicant increases to ratepayers on agricultural land classi ed for primary production.”

The MAV will continue to constructively work with the state government to assist in coming to an appropriate solution for the implementation of the new Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund.

- MAV PRESIDENT

JENNIFER ANDERSON

Cr Anderson said the local government sector is supportive of increased resources to the emergency services sector in Victoria – councils across Victoria already generously support many VICSES units and CFA brigades in local communities through contributions, shared or reduced costs for their facilities and peppercorn leases.

“However, the cost burden should not be on councils to collect or administer this state levy on behalf of the government,” Cr Anderson said.

“While councils have been collecting the Fire Services Levy for the state government through rates notices for more than a dec-

ade, this new, expanded Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund set to commence on 1 July 2025 is more complicated for councils to implement through rates notices in a short timeframe.

“Councils across the state have indicated that they are not able to reliably implement these proposed changes to the expanded state levy on 1 July 2025; and require funding from the state government to ensure that every local government is equipped with the IT, communication and human resources required to implement this expanded state levy.”

with the state government to assist in coming to an appropriate solution for the implementation of the new Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund.

“However, we want to make it very clear that this is a state levy, and the state government needs to communicate the bene ts of this expanded emergency services levy to rate payers across the state,” she said.

Cr Anderson said the MAV will continue to constructively work

Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant and other councillors last month raised the issue with CEO Brendan McGrath. Cr Grant also discussed potential action with other council mayors at the Regional Cities Victoria (RCV) gathering.

OVENS Valley MP Tim

McCurdy has accused the state government of doubledipping on taxpayers with the new property tax to fund government agencies.

The state government intends to prop up agencies in-part such as Triple Zero, the State Control Centre and Emergency Management Victoria with the new Emergency Services Volunteers Fund that will replace the Fire Services Property Levy from 1 July.

Mr McCurdy said Labor has conveniently added ‘volunteers’ to the levy title in an attempt to provide a false narrative to the public but fails to disguise the consequences that a double tax hit would have.

“Labor refuses to provide any clarity on the distribution of the $2.1 billion it generates,” Mr McCurdy said.

“The Allan Labor government continues to avoid questions that would allow the community the clarity deserved as to how much will go to fundamental government services, and whether there will be relief in sight for our underfunded emergency services.”

In state parliament recently,

Labor was urged to detail the distribution of the ESVF.

“Volunteer agencies have been ignored and continuously misled in relation to Labor’s tax,” Mr McCurdy said.

“Labor is using it to prop up government agencies including Triple Zero, the State Control Centre and Emergency Management Victoria – central services that should already be covered by existing tax revenue.

“Labor cut tens of millions of dollars from these agencies to fund the mismanaged big build in Melbourne, now it is double dipping on ratepayers to pay for its nancial failures.

“It is disgraceful that our underfunded, yet essential services provided by CFA and SES must fundraise to purchase critical lifesaving equipment, and that Volunteer Coast Guards, St John Ambulance and Surf Life Saving Victoria do not have adequate funding ensured.

“In addition, Labor must ensure all emergency services organisations receive a fair share and their volunteers receive a levy exemption for their invaluable community contribution,” he said.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

COST SHOCK: Cr Jennifer Anderson, president of the Municipal Association of Victorian board. MAV is on the side of many councils concerned about the cost burden to residents under the new Emergency Services Volunteers Fund.

Firefighters contain Glenrowan grassfire

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

FIREFIGHTERS have contained a three-day blaze near Glenrowan-Moyhu Road which burn around 28 hectares of bushland.

A CFA spokesperson said 32 CFA appliances from multiple local brigades responded to the incident alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) around 2pm Monday.

The grass and scrub re which travelled in a north-

easterly direction was fought on the ground and in the air, with three aircra s assisting in tracking and water bombing.

Two farm sheds and a holiday home were engulfed by the blaze on Monday, with no one harmed.

According to a CFA spokesperson the blaze burnt around 20 hectares within the rst hour of being ignited on Monday a ernoon before re ghters slowed the spread.

Communities in the nearby area were informed around 12pm on Wednesday via a VicEmergency advice message the threat of the blaze had been reduced and residents could resume normal activities.

CFA and FFMVic crews continued to work on tracking the perimeter of the re on Wednesday along di cult to reach terrain and the incident was deemed safe at 4.35pm, 5 March.

Clarkes Lane estate at the crossroads

■ From front page

“There will be all these people with very little open space and it will be an island compared to everything else.”

Ms Hart noted that the state government is making a push for medium density housing and fast-tracking permits in Melbourne with no rights to appeal, but the key difference is the city has doorstep access to regular public transport.

“If you’re in one of these developments in Melbourne, in a flat or apartment style living, you walk out your door and you have a tram within a couple of blocks, there are shops within five minutes or less, and parkland within 500m,” she said.

“If they house people at the proposed location on lots of 300sqm, they have nothing

and it’s not fair to do that to people who are going to be buying there because it’s the only affordable option.”

Ms Hart said a VicHealth submission lodged in late 2024 to the Plan for Victoria 2050 is calling for every council’s planning scheme to be automatically linked to their health and wellbeing plan.

“This is exactly the problem, with unvetted growth area developments, they’re adding to detrimental health outcomes, increasing antisocial behaviour, which can lead to other social problems,” she said.

“When do we as a society say enough is enough and we stand up for good development design principles?”

Ms Hart said she has at-

tempted to ask more questions about concerns over the proposal, but it has fallen on deaf ears.

“How do you participate in the process when you’re actually not included in the process,” she said.

“At the panel hearing all we’re going to get is a 10-minute right to speak plus what’s in our submissions.

“The proponent gets the privilege to have many meetings with council, they’re working with the developers, and all the people who are impacted are shut out of the process.”

Ms Hart said they bring viable, imaginative, future thinking solutions to the table, if the proponent is asked to engage with them.

28 hectare grass and scrub fire at Glenrowan which burnt from Monday to Wednesday.

Party-time awaits the end of the marathon and fun runs

WHEN you nish this year’s Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run events you are entering a party zone.

“It’s the ultimate place to celebrate with family and friends and even strangers that helped push you all the way to that nish line,” race director Liam Delany said.

“We will have water, 32Gi electrolyte drinks and zero alcohol sports beer to help rehydrate.

“Thanks to Wholefoods Wangaratta there will be heaps of fresh fruit to enjoy when you cross the line, and they will also have a stall with more fruit, snacks and drinks to purchase.

“There will be a barbecue with bacon and egg rolls and soft drinks as well as a couple of coffee carts to ensure everyone is feeling good.”

The nish zone will have plenty of tables and chairs to kick back and relax.

“It’s a beautiful setting with the green grass by the Ovens River,” Mr Delaney said.

“We will have some tunes as well as live music.”

Mr Delany will be on the mic and looking forwards to interviewing some of the

Book your spot at car boot sale

By SIMONE KERWIN

THE church yard at St Michael’s will be lled with cars with their boots open, and o ering a host of interesting bargains on Saturday, 15 March.

Held in conjunction with a bake sale and plant sale, the St Michael’s Car Boot Sale will run from 9am to 12 noon at St Michael’s Anglican Church, on the corner of Appin and O’Leary Streets.

There will also be some sellers in the adjoining St Michael’s Hall.

Items available will range from second-hand household items including books, electrical goods, collectables, quality homewares and kitchen items, to clothing, baby items, quality shoes and handbags, cra supplies, and garage/shed items and camping gear.

Plants will also be available for purchase, and cakes and biscuits will be on o er at the always-popular St Michael’s home-baked cake stall.

Locals and visitors to the area are encouraged to drop in and see what bargains they can nd, and to take home some tasty treats and a plant or two.

If you would like to reserve a car space to sell second-hand items, email wangarattawestac@bigpond. com with your phone number, and you will be contacted to con rm your spot.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: Robyn Coles and Virginia Kenworthy o er a taste of the items which will be on o er at the St Michael’s Car Boot Sale on 15 March.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

SHARING

THE JOY: The Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run events are a great way for the family to exercise together.

Brionie Allpici and daughter Emma of Team Essex were among more than 1000 participants in last year’s event.

runners as they cross the line and get their medal.

Each race will have presentations with over $10,000 worth of prizemoney getting handed out on the morning.

“The local business support for the event has been incredible, which is great for

JOIN IN THE FUN

THE Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run events are being held on Sunday, 16 March, with start of finish lines at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

People can enter the 42km marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km and 5km events, with a 2km event specifically for primary school aged children and their parents.

For more details go to www.northeastsports.com.au/ wangarattamarathon

the event and Wangaratta,” Mr Delaney said.

“The event has received funding from the Rural City of Wangaratta council and they have carried out work on the course to make it safer and faster.”

Mr Delaney recommend-

ed the 2km Primary School Challenge event as a great way to get your children active and experience a professionally timed event.

All children get a race number and medal when they cross the line.

The top three girls and

boys in U12, U10 and U8 get trophies and Wangaratta Intersport have donated some GVs as prizes for the overall 2km podium.

Parents wanting to accompany their children can do so for free in the second starting wave.

“Entries are owing in with just one more week to sign up online at www.northeastsports. com.au,” Mr Delaney said.

“Entries will close at 5pm Friday, 14 March with no entries a er this time.

“Race numbers for all events can be picked up at the Wangaratta Chronicle ofce on Friday, 14 March from 2-5pm then Saturday at the start/ nish precinct at the Wangaratta Showgrounds from 2-5pm and again on event morning 6am onwards.

“Checkout the website for more details and good luck cramming in the last week of training.

Romance heads to Milawa with Lyster Opera

SARAH Jane Pattichis is set to feature as Konstanze in the Lyster Opera’s upcoming production of Mozart’s comedy, ‘The Abduction from the Seraglio’, on Saturday, 22 March in the Milawa Hall.

The Abduction from the Seraglio tells the story of Belmonte, a young man who travels to Turkey to rescue his beloved Konstanze, who has been kidnapped by pirates and is now held captive in the harem the Turkish ruler.

With the help of his servant Pedrillo, Belmonte attempts to free her, facing many obstacles but ultimately wins her freedom through cleverness and the ruler’s unexpected generosity.

Featuring as Konstanze, the beloved of the hero Belmonte, Sarah leans into the romance of the story, drawing on her own experiences of love to portray the character.

Sarah said anyone who knows her well would agree that I feel things very deeply, similar to Konstanze.

“When performing as Konstanze, I am reminded of the love I have for my husband, my

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

kids, and singing, and how that love inhabits all of me,” she said.

Sarah said there was more to Konstanze’s character than being a love interest.

“She is aptly named - Konstanze, or Constance in English, for her faithfulness to Belmonte, but I think there is more to her than that,” she said.

“She loves so completely, with her whole self, and whilst she is separated from Belmonte, with no idea if she will ever see him again, she grieves with her whole self.

“She feels deeply, I think, in a very pure form.”

Sarah began singing lessons at eight years old, and joined the local community choir at 10, following this she began her professional career in 2007 in South Australia.

Sarah said working with Lyster Opera is always a joy, the team are supportive, nurturing, and a lot of fun.

“To then bring these produc-

tions to regional areas, who may not have as many opportunities to experience opera, is a real honour, especially as someone who grew up in regional Tasmania,” she said.

“As for this particular production - the music is just sublime.”

Sarah encourages anyone and everyone, including kids to come along to the production.

“Opera sometimes has this reputation for being high brow and elite, but that simply isn’t true,” she said.

“Mozart wrote for everyone - he pokes fun at the supposed elite, and o en the heroes of his operas are the servants.

“I just hope that anyone who comes along has good fun with us.”

For more information or to secure your seat, visit https:// lysteropera.com.au/.

DON’T MISS OUT: Sarah Jane Pattichis who will feature as Konstanze in Lyster Opera’s production of ‘The Abduction from the Seraglio’, encourages everyone to attend the opera.

One last lap for RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk

RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk will return to Wangaratta on Sunday, 25 May.

However after more than 30 fantastic years, this year will be the last lap nationally for Million Paws Walk.

RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker explained the funds raised at every walk would help end animal cruelty, and this final walk will be one to remember.

“Everyone has such a fantastic time at Million Paws Walk, and we’re very excited to see all the amazing dogs with their families and friends again as we send the event off in style,” Dr Walker said.

“We appreciate some people may be disappointed to hear this will be the final lap for Million Paws Walk, however the sheer logistical effort involved in running events on this scale, continually increasing event costs, and the cost-of-living pressures on supporters, means the event is no longer able to provide what it once could –maximum funding to help end cruelty to animals.

“While this will be the final walk, the money raised will help us care for the thousands of animals coming into our shelter every year, including those rescued by our inspectors.

“The cost of caring for the animals rescued by our inspectorate is increasing every year, and your support is more vital than ever.”

More than 6000 people and around 9000 dogs are expected to participate in six Million Paws Walk events across Victoria this year and the RSPCA is looking forward to celebrating with its supporters and finding new opportunities for the public to help animals in need.

“Our club has worked with the RSPCA for many years helping with the Million Paws Walk,” Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club president, Kevin Flemingham, said.

“They are making sure the day is special for everyone, helping people to spend quality time with their best friend.”

Locals interested in volun-

teering or businesses interested in running a vendor stall at this year’s Melbourne Million Paws Walk can register at MPW@rspcavic.org.au or 03 9224 2564.

Registrations for participants at Million Paws Walk are now open, with a ‘barking-mad’ discount of 60 per cent available until 7 April.

Head to millionpawswalk. com.au to register for your local walk and start fundraising today.

The Wangaratta Million Paws Walk will be at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club, starting at 10am, with the walk commencing at 12pm and festivities concluding at 3pm.

March forward for a gender equal world

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 falls on Saturday, 8 March and is a chance for the community to celebrate women’s achievement and raise awareness about discrimination.

Established in 1911, IWD has been around for over a hundred years, as have many of the issues still impacting women’s advancement, including gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

Today’s Wangaratta Chronicle feature ‘Inspirational Women of Wangaratta’ highlights the growth of women in the workplace and the impact they have on our community.

Another woman featured in today’s Chronicle is Colleen Davis, Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch veteran support coordinator, who was recently inducted to the RSL Victoria Hall of Fame.

Her impact in the community is testament to the value women add to the community and the need for recognition and celebration of all women who make our community what it is.

The themes for IWD 2025 are ‘Accelerate Action’ and ‘March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls’.

Both themes emphasise that while society has evolved significantly in recent history, despite this progress we still have a long way to go to achieve true gender equality.

As a community, it is our responsibility to take the opportunity this weekend to reflect on how times have changed, celebrate the women in our lives and look to the future as we work towards creating a gender equal world.

A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week also commented on the real estate listing of the 5.77-hectare Woollen Mills site in Wangaratta.

• Bobby Boss: Imagine how big of Skating Rink you could build… Build it and they will come..

• Pamela Beel: Bobby Boss or a bounce like in wodonga

• Sammi Thomas: A big shopping centre and move everything into one

area instead of scattered all over town.

• Lisa Delahunty Peach: Imagine how many houses can be built on there…….& Brucks??

• Charles Edward Halter: Lisa Delahunty Peach Houses or jobs?

Mmm difficult decisions now for council i guess

• Paul Crabb: If they have free parking they will come !

• Mark Sanders: Bring on more bulky

Policitical integrity in policy is essential

AT the election we all have a choice of what is in our best interests for the people of Indi along with the national interest.

Integrity in politics restores our trust and faith in politicians about the way they use taxpayer funds to provide services and products for communities across the nation.

The Trade Practices Act requires that businesses do not “….engage in deceptive, misleading, or false advertising”.

Breaches of the Act receive the full force of the law - as they should.

Those who stand for election to the parliament should comply with the same standards.

Truth in political advertising should be a lay down misère.

The Parliamentary Budget o ce has the ability and, in the past, has fully costed policy proposals by the government and oppositions of the day.

Election policy without costing and how they will be paid for is deceptive.

Time for Change and Getting back on Track are aspirational, content free slogans.

What track would that be and what are the changes?

Where are the policies and costs?

If you do “Don’t Know Vote No” comes to mind.

A lack of evidence-based policy is disrespectful of the public and lacks integrity.

Let’s keep our politicians honest and accountable.

Russell Sully, Wangaratta South

Car parking solution for arts precinct plan

I NOTED with interest that as well as the motion on paid parking passed by Rural City of Wangaratta councillors last week, there was also a planning motion passed that gives council permission to eliminate the 41 car parks behind the performing arts centre for building extensions.

My reasoning tells me the arts precinct development budget should include purchasing another piece of land close by, doing all the necessary works to convert it into a 41 or car space carpark and then do a swap.

The old service station site (former Caltex near corner of Reid Street and Ovens Street) next to Repco would be my rst choice.

Brian Fox, Wangaratta

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

goods outlets - and competition!

• Vezz Davern: Bring me a Costco yes I know I’m dreaming lol FACEBOOK users this week also commented on the proposed installation of a Battery Energy Storage System next to existing Winton and Glenrowan West solar farms.

• Brian Wadley: If it catches fire who’s going to put it out

• Leslie Matthews:

Excellent idea...my last power bill was $50 and the one before that was $55. Energy from the Sun...

• Greg Panter: The more solar and wind farms they build the dearer the power gets

• David North: Nope we have to pay more

• Shannon Louise: Awesome bring it on, great future thinking!!!

• Na Um: I hope I get a $0 power bill now.

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

HAVE YOU HEARD THE RUMOUR? An information session for Wangaratta Players next production, the comedy ‘Rumours’ by Neil Simon, directed by Steve Thornycro and Leanne Kelly, will be held at at 10am on Saturday, 8 March at the Stage Door Theatre, 4D Evans Street Wangaratta. Pictured are actors Bec Carta and Gillian Leonard from spreading the word that auditions for Rumours will be held 1:30pm later that day (March 8) and at 5:30pm Monday, 10 March also at the Stage Door Theatre. For more information and to register your interest go to Wangaratta Players Inc website (Our Shows 2025) or simply scan the QR code with this article for an audition pack.

Too many promises, too much spending

QUESTIONS we need to ask before the upcoming election.

Has Labor gone mad? $35 billion promised and the campaign hasn’t started.

How much of this is funded?

Will these Medicare Clinics end up a repeat of “There will be a nurse in every aged care home.”

It didn’t happen.

Where are the extra doctors and nurses coming from for these clinics?

How many of these clinics will Indi get?

Are these promises a repeat of Labor’s last election pledges - that did not happen?

Has the covid debt been reduced?

When will this reckless spending stop?

Something has to change to “get Australia back on track”.

Pat Chick, Wangaratta

Development site ideal for social housing

THE front page of Wednesday’s Wangaratta Chronicle on the Woollen Mills story - ‘5.77 hectare prime site’, ‘The Council has endorsed a future retail development’.

A question.

Is that the top priority for Wangaratta at this time?

Another retail precinct, away from the existing CBD?

Does this parcel of land come under the recent state government changed planning regulations prioritising housing, including in regional local government areas?

Could a creative use of this site indeed be ideal for a substantial medium density housing project?

Could the rural city grasp this opportunity, rather than just sitting back passively?

Perhaps this could be an unexpected chance to offer a clear example of a regional centre acknowledging and doing something transformative about this pressing local concern: the availability of housing.

(Dr) John Davis,

Wangaratta

PHOTO: Aleeta Carmody

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the opening of a unit complex on Templeton Street which will greet 90 new tenants.

• Frostbyte Wolf: Great, perfect with all the evictions lately because of landlords selling up. Turns out apparently people can’t have housing these days according to the fine citizens in the comments. Don’t become homeless, we’ll laugh back at you.

• Dready Wanderer:

Frostbyte Wolf yeah pretty much what’s happening to us now, they are selling our house so we have to leave.....we have just brought a few tents to sleep in.

• Frostbyte Wolf: Dready Wanderer I know exactly how you feel, I’m applying for everything I can afford and getting rejected, it’s tiring. Got 50 something days left.

• Dean Godde: Just as long as the new tenants treat them with respect and keep them clean and tidy .

Follow

Gail is one of our wonderful volunteers who is about to finish swimming 60 kilometres to brighten the lives of ill children and their families and raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. If you would like to donate: https://superswim. org.au/g-cresswell-dawson

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

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

• Lorraine Monshing Oam: Wonderful news. But I worry where … If they have cars !! Where are they going to park ?? No parking for 44 cars let alone minimum of 20 Edit !!! I’m happy that there is housing being available for more people , just the parking is likely to cause a problem that I don’t believe has been addressed

• Michelle Burns: Fantastic work, they look beautiful and what a promising and exciting week for the people who get to

call them home

• Shantelle Newth: I know a few people who are getting a place here and they are more then deserving.

• Donovan Jacka: The negative comments are appalling. The difference between being houseless and housed is usually a role of the dice, and right now a decent roof over your head is less affordable than ever. On top of that the highest growth rates in homelessness is amongst women over 50.

X USERS this week commented on reports of oil spillage in Ovens River, the recent high temperatures and the upcoming federal election.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria @ VicGovEPA

Avoid contact with water in the Ovens River at Wangaratta, near Ovens Street. We are investigating a report from the public of oil in the water. @NorthEastWater @ NorthEastCMA

Darren Hughes @DarrenH2814

In Wangaratta, Vic, they got up to 38° & 40° in mildura That’s hot

Alan Humphrey @Rt2beheardagain

After listening to Chalmers at the weekend I think we are going to see a budget before an election. Although in Wangaratta and surrounds Helen Haynes posters are already appearing. Maybe she knows something.

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

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

15,191

Tweet

Racing Victoria @RacingVictoria

A first win for trainer Amber Hendry comes in the Wangaratta Cup with Harmonious Senora and @lil_spaino96.

More than just a great night out

By SHANE DOUTHIE

THE highly anticipated Women’s Dance Party Fundraiser at the Gateway Hotel in Wangaratta on March 21 is more than just a great night out.

It’s the major fundraiser for the Beautiful You Program, a charity with a 25-year history of supporting women through their cancer journey founded by Debbie Clayton, a Wangaratta local.

The Beautiful You Program helps ease the burden by providing a range of practical supports including house cleaning, gardening services, grocery vouchers, beauty treatments, and nancial assistance for wigs.

The charity was initially based on the Sunshine Coast but following Debbie’s return to Wangaratta, the Beautiful You Program has expanded to include a Wangaratta branch.

Wangaratta Dance Party organisers Dr Brooke Winzer and Jenny Chivers answered Debbie’s call to the Wangaratta community for fundraising assistance to allow the charity to deliver vital help to as many local women as possible.

“We helped over 200 women on the Sunshine Coast through the program but the charity is just getting up and going in Wangaratta,” Debbie said.

“I have had several enquiries from local women about support and the more the Wangaratta

community gets behind the charity and help fundraise the more we can assist local women going through cancer.”

The Wangaratta Dance Party is for women and non-binary people of Wangaratta to enjoy a night of music, movement and connection while supporting a worthwhile cause.

The party, sponsored by Wangaratta Cardiology and Respiratory Centre, begins at 6.30pm and ends at 10.30pm, with tickets just $50 (including entry and nibbles).

To book your tickets go to https:// events.humanitix.com/women-sdance-party-fundraiser-tf8hjvt2.

Guests must be 18+ to attend but there is absolutely no upper age limit.

The dress code is wear whatever you feel fabulous in - dress it up or dress it down but comfortable shoes are a must.

The event is LGBTQIA+ friendly and welcomes people who identify as female or non-binary.

All dance abilities are welcome.

Organisers also have a special gi awaiting party guests this year.

WOMEN’S DANCE PARTY MAJOR FUNDRAISER FOR LOCAL CANCER SUPPORT

Professional photographer, Marc Bongers, will be on hand to take photos of the party guests.

Debbie said she was extremely grateful to Brooke and Jenny choosing her charity as the main bene ciary of the event and looked forward to hopefully catching up with as many people as possible on the night.

To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –

“From all the fundraisers I have organised on the Sunshine Coast I found the generosity overwhelming from locals so I’m hoping we can get Wangaratta to do the same,” she said.

“We have all been touched by cancer in one way or another so

we understand how import support is from the community.”.

Local women undergoing cancer treatment are encouraged to apply for assistance on the Beautiful You Program website https:// beautifulyouprogram.org.au/getsupport/.

You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.

But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.

Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

Light Horse ride to travel through Wangaratta

By SIMONE KERWIN

AN event commemorating the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Australian Light Horse regiments will travel through Wangaratta over the Labour Day long weekend.

The rural city will be among the stops on the first leg of The Australian Light Horse Society’s Chauvel Australian Light Horse Ride, which began in Shepparton on Tuesday.

It is named in honour of General Sir Harry Chauvel, who served in three wars over half a century and led the Australian Army in peacetime.

Among his roles, he commanded the 1st Light Horse Brigade at Gallipoli; for many, hearing the name Harry Chauvel evokes an image of the Light Horse, the slouch hat and the emu plume.

The ride will travel from Devenish to Thoona Primary School and into the Warby Range on Friday, 7 March, to arrive in Wangaratta on Saturday.

Riders will gather at the Wangaratta RSL that evening, and are expected to stay overnight at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

The epic journey will then move on to Eldorado, Indigo Creek and Wodonga.

Members of the local 8th Indi Light Horse Troop will be involved in the ride, and will also be raising funds for Soldier On, a not-for-profit organisation which supports current and former Australian Defence Force personnel - and their families - to lead meaningful civilian lives.

The three-week first leg of the memorial ride will visit Light Horse statues, silo art sights, schools and RSLs along the route to Harden in NSW, with the second part of the journey stretching from Young to Tallangatta.

DANCING FOR A CAUSE: Renee Underhill with Debbie Clayton promoting a previous Beautiful You Program fundraiser.

Slither safely for remainder of snake season

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

KAYLA Reynolds and partner Jason were making the most of their Saturday a ernoon last week cleaning their backyard pool on Billabong Drive.

The couple had returned from Bunnings Warehouse as they purchased more chemicals, but as Kayla looked to get back to work, she was met with shock as she saw a snake lying in their backyard grass in front of the pool.

James then quickly pointed out it had been killed and was missing a head.

“We turned around and looked at our Jack Russell and he had blood around his neck, foam coming out of his mouth and he was shaking,” Kayla said.

Kayla said the couple quickly made contact with an on-call Vet to treat their 11-year-old family pet Leo, but there was nothing that could be done.

“The vet said he had been bitten at least three or four

times and he’s such a little dog; he had to be put out of his misery,” she said.

“It was just so sudden and fast, I didn’t even have time to think.”

Kayla said the headless snake was suspected to be an Eastern Brown and it was her rst encounter with a snake.

“I don’t know whether it was looking for water or not, we have a tin shed and behind it is a gap with a lot of steel and there are big paddocks in the street over, I’m guessing it has come from there” she said.

“We also have a Kelpie, Lassy, who’s just a pup but luckily she didn’t get bitten… saying goodbye to two in one day would’ve been a bit much.

“A er it happened we let all of our neighbours know what happened just in case and we’re getting rid of that steel behind the shed.”

Ambulance Victoria (AV) urged the community to be prepared for snakes anywhere through the rest of snake season a er attending

From 1 December 2024 to 18 February 2025, paramedics have responded to 28 incidents involving snakebites in the Hume region, the most recorded in any region across the state.

AV director emergency management

129 suspected snakebites this summer.

people were transported to

Dale Armstrong said out of the 129 cases, 125 people were transported to hospital.

“Bites can o en be avoided simply by being observant in areas that are likely to attract snakes, such as near rivers, long grass or sheds,” he said.

“Most snakes in Victoria are venomous and a bite can be life-threatening.

“Snake bites commonly occur on hands, feet or limbs, so applying a pressure immobilisation bandage to the a ected limb can also make a big di erence to the treatment and outcome of a

“Whether it be juveniles, fully growns; it’s a full range of sizes and breeds,” he said.

Mark said if a snake is seen around a pet, the best thing you can do is to get the animal checked for snake-

“Pets are family and it’s not worth losing a family member wondering what if it was bitten or not,” he said.

yards neat and tidy and making sure shrubs are well can help deter them from your home.

“Compost bins are a big attraction for snakes because mice and rodents are around and it’s constantly warm, so it’s a common place for snakes to go and hide,” he said.

While extracting a Red-Belly black snake from Borinya on College Street Monday afternoon, Tarrawingee-based snake catcher Mark Flack said there had been a lot of snake movement around the rural city in recent weeks.

OF FUN: Wangaratta Library sta members Peyton Williams and Tanya Hopper encourage locals to be part of the Community Knitting and Crochet Project, which will benefit some of the district’s most vulnerable residents.

LEND YOUR SKILLS TO HELP OTHERS

By SIMONE KERWIN

IT’S that time of year for keen exponents of knitting and crochet to lend their skills for the bene t of the Wangaratta district’s most vulnerable residents.

Wangaratta Library has launched its annual Community Knitting and Crochet Project, encouraging creative locals - from knitting beginners to those with a wealth of experience - to join in and make something special to brighten someone else’s life.

This year, the initiative invites knitters and crocheters to create cot-sized blankets and toys to make comfort packages for children aged between 0 and 10.

These care packages will be shared with children in the Wangaratta region through St Vincent de Paul and Tots2Teens.

Each package will include a handmade blanket, a cuddly toy (made without buttons or beads to meet child safety guidelines), and an age-appropriate book donated by Wangaratta Library.

Free yarn is available at the Wangaratta Library for those who would like to be involved.

Finished knitted items can be dropped o at the Docker Street library during opening hours from now until 31 May. For more information, contact the library on 5721 2366 or via email library@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au

“If they nd their pets focusing on a particular area or constantly barking at a certain spot, get the pet inside and investigate.”

Mark said while coming across a snake was o en a random occurrence, keeping

Gardener’s Library launch this month

THE Wangaratta Library is excited to introduce the Gardener’s Library, a fantastic new resource for our community.

This initiative will provide access to a variety of gardening materials, including seeds, plant cuttings, and even old newspapers for composting, making it easier for local gardeners of all skill levels to grow and nurture their green spaces.

The official launch takes place on Thursday, 20 March from 2pm-3:30pm at the Wangaratta Library.

At the event, the community will learn more about how the Gardener’s Library works, meet fellow gardening enthusiasts, and explore how this shared resource can support sustainable gardening practices in our community.

Bookings are not required.

As daughters Lilly and Stella returned from a weekend away, Kayla said it was a dicult moment to sit and down and tell her kids the sad news on Monday.

“They’ve pretty much had Leo with them their whole lives, so it was a bit of a shock for them to nd out he won’t be here anymore,” she said.

Perfect nature patterns

ON Thursday, 18 March, Beingreen Permaculture will be hosting a free interactive session exploring the beauty and significance of patterns in the natural world at the Wangaratta Library from 10:30-11:15am. Aimed at children aged three to five, they will discover how patterns help animals camouflage, how they appear in plants, and why they are a key part of our environment through hands-on activities and creative play.

Bookings are not required.

Autumn Harvest Festival

SUSTAINABLE King Valley will hold an Autumn Harvest Festival food swap event at the Cheshunt Memorial Hall on Saturday, 15 March from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

The community is invited to enjoy a morning celebration of local produce, waste reduction, gardening and community spirit, with entries also invited for 2025 Monster Zucchini championship.

Bring excess produce or seeds you’d like to share, with native plant propagation and preserving demonstrations, information on weed and insect control, a raffle, children’s activities and more.

Festival by Bridge Road Brewers Presents

BUNDLES

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling



SAFETY FIRST: Snakes like this one have enjoyed the drier conditions in recent months, which has led to calls of safe practices around snakes.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

 BELOVED PET: Leo (right) was sadly put down over the weekend from snake bites, and will be missed dearly by young Stella (le ).

LEGO display keeps the kids busy at the WPACC

By STEVE KELLY

LEGO mania took a grip on the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre with dozens of kids, young and older, checking out the displays over the weekend.

They ranged from Star Wars, super cars, Minions and Marvel, with displays taking on di erent forms.

Kids were able to sit at a table and make their own creations as well.

It was part of the Wangaratta Brick Show put on by Playwell Events which is travelling Australia with its collection.

 ALL ABOARD: Archie and Olive Canning with the LEGO train set.

SEARCHING FOR TREASURE: Archie Holmes and Hunter Welland were into the pirate ships.

Dancers truly had a ball in Rutherglen

Friday, 6 March, 2015

WANGARATTA and Eldorado dancers were among those who took to the Rutherglen Soldiers’ Memorial Hall art deco ballroom in rustling silk, floating organza and smart black tie last weekend.

The 1926-built hall hummed to the elegant rhythms of Swingmasters’ dance band and the practised steps of more than 150 participants in Rutherglen’s third Ballroom Dance Festival.

Couples tripped away Friday and Saturday nights with ‘new vogue’, ‘modern’ and ‘Latin’ moves.

“It was a wonderful week-

10 years ago 10 years ago

end of music and dance and is just one of many popular events held across Australia,” organiser Russell Edwards said.

The event – held in four parts, including a ball – supported the Leukaemia Foundation and the Rutherglen fire brigade.

TANGO: Festival participants step up at Rutherglen Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, including John and Jennifer Farrier from Eldorado (le ), Ron Shead from Sutton Forrest and Lois Langtree from Yass, Alan and Joyce Williams from Guyra and Bev Eames from Wangaratta.

PHOTO: Wendy Stephens

▲ LITTLE MINIONS: Dominic and Elisha Lavars.

Alexander Febvre took a liking to the transformative Iron Man LEGO poster which changed form depending where you viewed it from.

STAR WARS: Daniel Bradford and Briana Hogarth faced o with Darth Maul.

Theo Welland was in awe of the Disney castle.

Leo’s exchange in Japan a memorable experience

By GRACE FREDSBERG

WANGARATTA teenag-

er Leo Harwood recently wrapped up his one-year exchange trip to the Ishikawa prefecture in Kanazawa City, Japan as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.

Leo was sponsored by the Milawa Oxley Rotary Club and Higashi-Kanazawa Rotary Club, allowing him to spend the past 12 months getting accustomed to the di erent way of life in the Chubu region of Japan.

“I used to think it was the hardest language I’ve ever learnt,” he said.

“If it’s the rst language you’ve studied, it’s de nitely very di cult.

“Now I don’t really have to think when I speak it.

“It feels pretty normal to me.”

He said Japanese popular culture has had quite an in uence on the modern world, making it easier than it’s ever been to learn the language.

“It’s very, very popular, especially nowadays,” Leo said.

He said that he looks back fondly on his friendships formed with other exchange

students on the trip.

“I think probably spending time with all the other exchange students is something I value a lot,” he said.

“I was really close with a lot of them.”

During his stay, Leo attended a business school where he was exposed to the customs and norms of Japanese education.

He said school times were a lot longer but he really enjoyed his classes.

“My favourite classes by far were de nitely geography

and Chinese,” he said.

“It’s very di erent in Japan.

“For example, at the end of each day, all the students start cleaning.

“The students would go clean the bathrooms and the classrooms and the halls.”

Unlike many Australian school campuses, which have buildings dispersed over a large area, Leo said the school was a singular ve-story building.

“My gym class was on the rst oor and my homeroom was on the h oor,” he said.

“It could be a bit of a trek sometimes.”

Leo said that while the trip gained him a sense of independence and resilience, he certainly felt lonely at times.

“I think being away from home there is a lot of learning on how to be more independent, and learning how to get through problems if you have them alone,” he said.

He also said he felt like he was the “token white guy,” and the prejudice he experienced wasn’t something he expected would happen.

“Even though I was living in Japan, I always felt like I was not a part of everyone else,” he said.

Another challenge Leo said he faced was staying with four di erent host families, rotating between them every three months.

“I found it pretty di cult at one point,” he said.

“I had some problems with some of my host families.

“But in the end, I made it work.”

He was thrilled to reunite with his family back in Australia, but said he was “very sad” to leave his life in Japan behind and has found the transition back to school dif-

cult with his friends having graduated last year.

“It’s tough, but I knew it was part of the deal from the start,” Leo said.

Despite the challenges, Leo described his exchange as the most amazing experience of his life.

“I’ve made lifelong friends, and even though there were tough moments, I appreciated every moment,” he said. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the journey possible.

“I’m really thankful to my host families, my schools, and especially my family and the Rotary Clubs that supported me.”

HONOURED: Leo’s trip was made possible through his sponsorship by Higashi-Kanazawa Rotary Club and the Milawa Oxley Rotary Club.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME: Leo Harwood pictured with one of four of his host families in Japan.

Local wineries showcased at French wine trade museum

By ANITA MCPHERSON

TWO local wineries are among a selection of Victorian wineries to be featured at the world’s largest wine museum in France, with the aim of highlighting the state’s reputation as a premium wine producer in an initiative supported by the state government.

Victorian Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Danny Pearson, has announced a partnership with the iconic La Cité du Vin trade museum in Bordeaux, France, where Brown Brothers of Milawa and Chambers Rosewood Vineyards of Rutherglen will be joined by Ten Minutes by Tractor, William Downie, Bests Great Western and Yarra Yering at the major tourist attraction, which welcomes more than 400,000 wine lovers every year.

The wineries on show from Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, Grampians, Rutherglen and King Valley, were chosen to show the diversity and vibrancy of the wines produced in Victoria’s $9 billion wine industry.

Brown Family Wine Group is showcasing its Innocent Bystander Moscato 2022, Brown Brothers Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 and Brown Brothers Patricia Shi-

raz 2019 at La Cité du Vin.

The wines will be displayed for up to a year, accompanied by brand and product information, and will be periodically used for tastings and events for visitors.

The initiative was launched on February 13 and 14 when global wine industry professionals including buyers, importers, wine merchants and hotel and catering representatives gathered to learn about the regions and taste the Victorian wines.

The launch followed Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2025 held on February 10 to 12, where Victorian wines were also celebrated on a global stage.

The event brings together about 4500 exhibitors from 50 countries and this year drew record attendance, with over 52,000 people coming through the doors over three days.

Brown Family Wine Group general manager winemaking and supply chain Joel Tilbrook, who attended Wine Paris Vinexpo 2025, said the La Cité du Vin exhibition complemented the group’s growing reach into the European market.

He said while the Brown Brothers brand, its history and reputation enjoyed great recognition in the domestic market, it was something

they wanted to extend into the broader global market.

“We’ve been quite a domestically focussed business over the last 10 years or so, and as we continue to grow over the next ve years within our strategic plan, export plays a fairly signi cant role,” he said.

“We are being quite selective and targeted as to which export markets we are focussing on and what opportunities we want to take, so we can support them well and drive some signi cant growth.

SECOND IN A SERIES: SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

“Wine Paris was an opportunity for us to both showcase our wines to the general trade who visit the show, and meet with key distribution partners and contacts to build export growth going forward.

“We had several meetings across three days with key customers and distribution partners in the UK, Canada, broader Europe and Asia, including South Korea.

“Because it’s a global event, it’s also a really good opportunity to see the world of wine all in one place and

to get an idea of what other people are doing from a varietals and an innovation perspective.”

Mr Tilbrook said masterclasses were also run through Wine Australia which included Brown Brothers wines, providing broader education to people at the event.

As part of the two-year partnership between Victorian State Government and La Cité du Vin, other Victorian wineries will have the chance to be displayed in the future.

Unleash your creativity with Engie’s art competion

ARE you aged ve to 12 and love art?

Here’s your chance to win a $200 Benalla Cinema voucher.

Create an artwork around the theme of sustainability (no AI please).

It could be a drawing, painting, photo, collage digital image or even an image using recycled material; the possibilities are endless.

Your artwork will be displayed at the ENGIE stall during the Benalla Street Art Festival, where attendees will vote for their favourite.

The winning artwork will take home a $200 Benalla Cinema voucher and also feature in Goorambat East Solar Farm’s promotional material for the next 12 months, so make sure to send your family and friends to vote.

How to enter:

Email your entry to goorambatsolarfarm.au@engie. com.

Drop it o at Protech, 61 Nunn Street, Benalla. Please label your entry with name, age, email and contact number.

Deadline is Friday, 4 April and the winner will be announced on Monday, 14 April.

All Electric Homes: pathways to electrification

By RUSSELL SULLY, JOHN NAYLOR, ANN BRAIN

AN all-electric home delivers savings over its gas and fossil fuel powered equivalents by using the most e cient electric machines for space and water heating, cooling, cooking, and transport.

All-electric homes are healthier to live in and emissions free – Good for the pocket, people, and the planet. Electri cation pathways Households can decide to switch progressively, according to their needs, wants and nances.

Some make the change as old appliances break down.

A new e cient, electric replacement may cost more but will be much cheaper to run overtime.

Government rebates make the switch less expensive.

If savings are the aim, replace the most expensive polluting appliance rst.

A er the car, this is likely to be a gas space heater, then a gas hot water system.

The savings from each changeover can help pay for the next. And again, there are rebates available.

There is evidence that the savings from electrifying all

at once are enough to repay a loan and you would still be in front each month.

Once the loan is repaid, the savings really kick in.

A number of banks o er cheaper nance for home electri cation.

The savings from electri cation grow if

roo op solar powers everything.

How much can I save?

Wangaratta Landcare & Sustainability’s Electrify Wangaratta website https://wlsi. org.au/electrify-wangaratta/ o ers a guide to how much you can save through electrifying your home.

Answer four questions about your current appliances and energy use and receive a plan tailored to your situation, with an estimate of savings you could make.

Help Along the Way

Whichever path a household takes to

electri cation; cheaper, healthier living is the destination.

In summary the following rebates and incentives from the government help reduce the cost of replacing broken or old appliances.

For more information on

rebates and going electric, go to:

 www.energy.vic.gov.au/ victorian-energy-upgrades/ homes

 WLS - https://wlsi.org. au/electrify-wangaratta  https://www. rewiringaustralia.org

Space heating and cooling: Reverse cycle air conditioners use 3-4 times less energy than gas heaters, and they can cool your home as well, resulting in signi cant energy bill savings.

Water heating: Is the second biggest gas user in the home. An electric heat pump storage hot water system is the most e cient way to heat water. www. energy.vic.gov.au/victorianenergy-upgrades/homes Cooking: Gas cooktops use less energy than water or space heaters, while they have the most direct impact on health. Many leading health organisations demonstrate the risks of gas cooking.

Journey’s end

The electri cation journey ends with a cheaper to run, healthier, low or zero emission home.

At 2025 energy costs, there is almost $2000 a year to be saved by electrifying the house.

Rebates and cheap nance can help you on the way. For more information go to Rewiring Australia https:// www.rewiringaustralia.org/

WORLD OF WINE: Global wine industry professionals gathered at La Cité du Vin trade museum in Bordeaux, to learn about and sample Victorian wines on February 13 and 14.

A WIN-WIN PROJECT: Rebates and cheap finance can help you on your way to full electrification.

MARVELLOUS MISTLETOE

By IAN DAVIDSON

MISTLETOES are a diverse group of plants found throughout Australia, occurring in rainforests, eucalypt woodlands, outback shrublands and even deserts.

No matter where they grow, they play an incredibly important role in any environment.

These partially parasitic plants, with their characteristic drooping habit, rely on a host plant for all their water and nutritional needs, yet they create their own energy through photosynthesis.

Most commonly in this region, mistletoes parasitise eucalypts and wattles, with different species favouring different host plants.

For instance, the Grey Mistletoe typically grows on wattles such as Silver Wattle and Deane’s Wattle, whereas the Box Mistletoe (as their name suggests) prefers box and ironbark trees as their host.

All mistletoes rely on birds for both pollination and seed dispersal, and a wide range of birds and insects benefit from the sugar-rich nectar and nutritious fruit provided by these plants.

Also, with their nutrient-rich and succulent leaves, mistletoe foliage is widely consumed by herbivorous mammals such as Brush-tailed and Ring-tailed Possums.

Mistletoes could well be the focus of several articles, such is their integral part of our ecosystems.

We will re-visit aspects of their ecology and importance to wildlife in future editions.

For the time being, we focus on what some of our local mistletoes are doing right now, and that is flowering.

The narrow tubular flowers of mistletoe, typically red in colour, produce a rich and abundant supply of nectar.

This provides an important source of food for mammals, insects and particularly a wide range of birds such as honeyeaters, friarbirds, woodswallows and lorikeets.

This food source is especially vital now, at a time when other nectar sources such as eucalypt flowers, are scarce.

Over the past couple of weeks, we have observed numbers of Noisy and Little Friarbirds, various local honeyeaters and mobs of Little Lorikeets homing in on areas such as the Warby Ranges to take advantage of the mistletoe nectar that is on offer.

Some species, such as the Singing Honeyeater and Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, are quite unusual for the Wangaratta region, normally occurring further inland in Mallee and other more open shrublands, but they too have wandered from their usual haunts which are very dry and providing little in the way of food after a long dry summer.

Next time you’re out and about and come across some flowering mistletoe, be sure to have a good look to see what might be there.

You might be surprised.

offers the widest curriculum in Wangaratta with a variety of options, pathways into university courses, and employment opportunities.

IRRESISTABLE: A YOUNG LITTLE LORIKEET FEASTS ON NECTAR FROM THE FLOWERS OF FLESHY MISTLETOE.

PHOTO: CHRIS TZAROS (BIRDS BUSH AND BEYOND)

Wangaratta Farmers Market on Saturday

CONNECT with local growers and makers at the Wangaratta Farmers Market on Saturday, 8 March in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 8am to 12pm.

There will be wide variety of stall holders showcasing the region’s produce, including seasonal fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, preserves and more.

A night of magic with Spellbound

GET ready for a spectacular night of magic and grand illusion with one of Australia’s leading Illusionists, Anthony Street, when Spellbound comes to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 8 March at 7pm.

The star and producer of the stage phenomenon, Celtic Illusion, is now touring his Grand Illusion show, featuring levitations, impossible vanishes, mentalism and a death-defying escape.

Guaranteed to keep audience members on the edge of their seats, tickets for this thrilling show are available now at wpacc.com.au.

Exhibitions at Wangaratta Art Gallery

SEE two new exhibitions, Crystalline by Elizabeth Willing and Barra by Juanita McLauchlan, at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

Crystalline brings together existing and new bodies of work by Brisbane based artist Elizabeth Willing that explore the interconnected qualities of alcohol and sugar, and is on display in Gallery 1 until May 18. Barra, meaning thread in the Gamilaraay language of Juanita McLauchlan’s grandmother’s country in northern New South Wales, connects two distinct, yet interrelated areas of the artist’s practice – textiles and printmaking, and it can be seen in Gallery 2 until April 6. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.

Abundance of life and colour in new art exhibition

A JOINT exhibition by artists

Judi McCann and Rachel Flynn has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway o Murphy Street in Wangaratta.

The exhibition ‘Abundance’ includes Rachel’s artwork featuring montages of vintage objects, fabrics and owers, and Judi’s vibrant, colourful abstract pieces and works featuring owers and insects.

Rachel said she began a consistent art practice during the COVID lockdown of 2021 and likes to use pigment inks, acrylic paint, paper and pencil, and a mix of methods including printing,

Glenrowan BESS

You’re invited

Community drop-in session

A Planning Application will be soon lodged for a proposal to develop a battery energy storage system (BESS) at 84 Glenwest Lane, Winton, to connect into the existing Glenrowan Terminal Station.

painting, drawing and collage.

Of the montages, Rachel said the viewer can imagine someone has made the tablecloths, the vases and grown the owers, and arranged everything to present a quiet moment in a rushed day.

She said the imaginary landscapes extend it further - asking questions of who lives in these little houses, and whether you can hear the birds calling.

Judi McCann is a visual artist who works and exhibits in Wangaratta and Melbourne.

She said while she’s had a lifelong interest and involvement in visual

Come along to learn more about the project and speak to the project team! Light refreshments provided.

Date: Time:

Venue: Saturday 15 March 2025 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall, 5 Daniel Lane, Glenrowan VIC 3675

art and used a range of mediums in the past, she is now focussing on re ning her skills as a digital artist, enjoying accessing a vast palette of colours to draw, paint and make collage.

“It’s vibrant colour that excites my senses and inspires my art,” she said.

“I create works that are aesthetically pleasing to me and also to those who view my work.”

Abundance can be seen at the gallery daily until March 10 with the opportunity to meet both the artists on Saturday, March 8 from 10m until 2pm.

Merriwa Park exhibition in library gallery

A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition of Merriwa Park is now showing in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library until 29 March.

The collection has been curated by the Merriwa Park and Gardens Group and it demonstrates current day images and historical photographs and items. Members have contributed to the display and it will include artefacts from the Wangaratta Historical Society collection with a focus on the trees in the park.

Wangaratta community market

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

There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available, and the Wang Repair Café also on site this weekend.

Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.

Wangaratta Historical Society open weekends

TAKE a trip down Memory Lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street. The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm with free entry. Anyone who has interesting items from Wangaratta’s past they think should be on display are welcome to bring them in or donate them to the museum, with more information via email to wangarattahistorialsociety@ gmail.com.

Illustration

VIVID COLOUR: Rachel Flynn and Judi McCann invite everyone to come and see their exhibition being held at the Art Gallery on Ovens, open daily until Monday, 10 March.

WHAT’S ON THIS LONG WEEKEND

Live music, great wine and more to enjoy at Campbells’ Autumn Graze

RELAX into the March long weekend when Autumn Graze is held at Campbells Wines on Saturday, 8 March and Sunday, 9 March from 10am to 4pm.

Enjoy a glass of wine, woodred pizza or a vineyard platter, whilst being entertained by Albury performer, Paul Taylor on Saturday, and Rutherglen music teacher Patrick Russell on Sunday.

Patrick has taught instrumental music lessons in Rutherglen for the last 11 years and says he love to play a wide variety of artists and styles and covering songs his own way.

“I love the way music can evoke all sorts of emotions within your-

self to the point where you can get goosebumps, smile, cry or even start dancing,” he said.

“I began performing as a soloist around 13 years ago and I feel very lucky to be supported by my local community, they’ve seen me evolve as a musician over the years.”

The 34-year-old, who has played at Campbells of Rutherglen on several occasions, says he enjoys the ambience of the winery and having a chat with patrons in between his music sets.

“As a Rutherglen local, I am proud to live in a town so storied in history, it’s amazing that Campbells Wines is celebrating 155 years of family winemaking

in Rutherglen this year,” he said.

“The heritage and legacy of Campbells is worth preserving and it is de nitely worth celebrating.”

Campbells was founded by Scotsman John Campbell in 1870, who le the gold elds on the advice of the rst winegrowers of Rutherglen.

Now 155 years later, the winery he established is for the rst time run by two women, sisters Jane and Julie Campbell, the h generation.

Jane is the managing director who oversees the company and Jules is the chief winemaker and custodian of the Campbells brand.

Jane said the sisters have a shared vision to champion the region by leading the way with outstanding wines, innovative and progressive practices and an authentic winery experience.

“Autumn Graze is great family-friendly event, and we look forward to welcoming locals and visitors to our winery for a fun- lled weekend of live music, great wine and delicious food,” she said.

“Activities for children will be on o er and dogs on leashes are welcome.”

For further Winter Graze details, visit campbellswines.com. au.

An Evening with Bernadette Robinson

FROM the premier concert halls of London’s West End to Wangaratta, a special performance by internationally acclaimed diva Bernadette Robinson will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 7 March at 7.30pm. Renowned for her astonishing ability to embody the voices of iconic singers such as Edith Piaf, Kate Bush, Shirley Bassey, Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Judy Garland, and the legendary Maria Callas – Bernadette Robinson will captivate the audience with her extraordinary vocal talent.

This one-off performance in Wangaratta is a fundraiser for the re-election campaign of Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines.

Brighter Days festival in Bright

THE Brighter Days Festival is three days of family-friendly fundraising fun held annually in Bright on the March Labour Day weekend. Events and activities run throughout the weekend including live music with country vibes on Friday, a celebration of the eighties on Saturday and party vibes on Sunday. To access the program and secure tickets brighterdays.org.au.

Rutherglen Tastes of Art prize

WITH almost 500 entries received, the eighth Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize will be held from March 8 to 16 at the Memorial Hall in Rutherglen.

Arts Rutherglen is offering a prize pool of $16,350 this year in categories of painting/ mixed media, work on paper, 3D artworks, photography and youth, with winners to be unveiled at the gala opening on Friday, 7 March, selected by this year’s judges, Di Kotzur, Ben Eyles and Christine CansfieldSmith.

The gala opening starts at 6.30pm and tickets are available at www.trybooking. com/CVYYA, with entry to the exhibition $5 per person (student entry free).

Taste of Rutherglen wine festival

EXPLORE Rutherglen wine country on the long weekend when Tastes of Rutherglen is held, with over 200 wines to discover at 17 participating cellar doors.

There will be exclusive harvest activities, mouthwatering meals crafted by local chefs matched to wines, and live music in scenic settings.

Limited festival day passes are available, and shuttle bus will also run between wineries, with more information at explorerutherglen.com.au.

Authorised by Helen Haines, 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677.

MAKING MUSIC: Rutherglen music teacher Patrick Russell will perform on Sunday during Campbells Wines Autumn Graze.

A family obsession with Holden cars

Ken Essenhigh has had an obsession with Holden cars since his childhood and his son Brent and grandchildren Liam and Harrison follow in his footsteps.

Born in 1954 at the Benalla private hospital, Ken was raised in Swanpool and later moved to Docker where his father ran a dairy farm.

His rst driving experience was on the farm in his father’s HD Holden station wagon, where he used the manual beside him on the bench seat to show him how to work the gears.

Then he was given a 1938 Morris 1300 Commercial truck to use as a farm vehicle to further hone his driving skills.

Ken bought his rst Holden when he was 17 years of age. It was a white HT Holden ute bought from Don Telford, a local painter from Wangaratta.

Ken’s father bought it for him for $1500 and Ken paid him $15 a week until the loan was paid out.

The HT served him well for the next four years until the engine blew up.

Instead of repairing the Holden, Ken chose to buy an XT Falcon V8.

This proved to be the worst car he has ever bought and put him o Fords for life.

A er the Falcon, Ken owned several Celicas during the mid1980s.

The purchase of his next car, a Commodore VH SLE V8, was inspired by the birth of his son Brent, as it was impossible for his wife Leanne to place and secure a baby bassinette into a two door Celica.

Ken graduated from Wangaratta Technical School in 1970.

He applied for two Jobs, one with Telecom the other with the SEC.

He started as an SEC linesman on January 18, 1971 and retired on January 18, 2016 a er 45 years of service.

Ken still works as a licenced electrical inspector to feed his Holden obsession and to keep his cars going.

He has owned more than 30 di erent Holdens over the last 45 years.

With the exception of the HR/ HD range, Ken has owned one of every model Holden produced and has always had a Holden ute.

He has restored many of the Holdens in his collection and has amassed an abundance of knowledge about Holden components and mechanical systems.

His participation in Wangaratta Speedway events prompted

much of his mechanical expertise as engine rebuilds became a standard task for the competition of racing.

Ken’s mechanical insights were boosted by his old mates Ken Simmons and John Blackwell, old school mechanics who showed Ken the tricks of the trade.

Ken is far from a purist when it comes to vehicle restoration.

He has modi ed all of his Holdens by tting Tasman or Simonds wheels and enhancing engine, steering and braking systems to create a safer car.

In 2000, Ken and several other Holden enthusiasts created the Wangaratta Early Holden Car Club Inc to share their passion with likeminded enthusiasts.

The club was formed with 25

THE Wangaratta Historic Motor Show & Fly In is held on Sunday, 27 April at the Wangaratta Airport on Greta Road.

If you wish to be a part of the display with your Historic Vehicle ring Martin Ziermann on 0456 039 892 or Steve Doig on 0423 298 127 or access the online entry form online www.wangarattahistoricmotorshoandflyin.com.

◀ FOREVER YOUNG: Ken Essenhigh with his beloved a 1961 EK Holden panel van.

initial members which has grown to around 75 members to date.

Monthly meetings and club runs to places of interest form the activities for members.

Ken loves to have a chat and to share his knowledge and passion for Holden cars as well as to hear the stories from those that are inspired by seeing his cars.

His commitment to the biennial Wangaratta Historic Motor Show & Fly In has seen him serve on each of the organising committees for the past eight years.

“It’s a great chance for the family to get together and see something di erent from yesteryear,” Ken said.

“We have organised a great display of historic vehicles, trucks, tractors, re engines, ambulances, stationary engines, planes, motorbikes and more.”

The Wangaratta Historic Motor Show & Fly In is held on Sunday, 27 April at the Wangaratta Airport on Greta Road.

If you wish to be a part of the display with your Historic Vehicle ring Martin Ziermann on 0456 039 892 or Steve Doig on 0423 298 127 or access the online entry form online www.wangarattahistoricmotorshoand yin.com.

WANGARATTA-based Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, is insisting that Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence to fund the Fruit Fly Program across the Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV) in the 2025-26 Victorian Budget.

Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) numbers have been managed successfully under an area wide management program for the GMV since the introduction of funding in 2017/18.

Mr McCurdy explained that the investment paid dividends immediately with a 95 per cent reduction in QFF numbers, however, continuous cuts to funding have drastically reduced the original 409 monitoring traps to a mere 200. He recently spoke to the minister and expressed his concerns about the program’s future.

“It is concerning there is no certainty regarding future funding for the AWM program beyond June this year, and as a result, no guarantee that the program will continue,” Mr McCurdy said.

In response to questioning the Minister stated: “The purpose of the Victorian Fruit Fly Program was to support transition as industries and communities learn to live with and manage QFF.”

Mr McCurdy said suspending funding will in no way help protect the level of risk QFF poses to fruit growers.

He said ongoing funding is vital to suppressing numbers and backing fruit growers.

“We’ve recently seen the tragic situation at Katunga Fresh which just goes to show how vulnerable the horticulture industry is to pests and viruses,” he said.

“We know the current program works and the modelling we’ve seen indicates QFF numbers could increase by 600 per cent without a properly funded Fruit Fly Program.

“Managing QFF requires constant vigilance, and the minister needs to understand the significant impact cutting funding will have on our fruit growers who will face incredible cost and wastage.”

He said fruit growers have raised with great concern the damage QFF will cause if it’s allowed to spread without adequate controls.

“Horticulture is worth $1.6 billion across the GMV and jobs are also on the line if QFF spreads without control,” Mr McCurdy said.

“It is imperative that the minister gives the appropriate consideration to the dire outcomes our fruit growers will face, should they continue to disregard the importance of funding this program.

“The inclusion of funding in the upcoming budget is essential to the survival of this industry.

“The Allan Labor government must act to protect our region and provide the security our local fruit growers desperately need.”

March

8 2025

#AccelerateAction

Wangaratta High School educators leading by example

By JORDAN DUURSMA

FOUR female educators at Wangaratta High School are continuing to further their education to better serve the students and school community, while setting a positive example.

Leah-Nicole Tindill, Lee Unwin, Sheri Parkhouse and Hannah Knott have successfully completed a certificate in school management and leadership from Harvard Business School.

Assistant principal Sheri Parkhouse said she organised the opportunity after searching for professional learning opportunities for a group of emerging leaders.

“I sought out educators who were early in the careers who were emerging as leaders and encouraged them to complete this great opportunity,” she said.

“It was a conscious decision to choose these three women because I believe that they will have a huge impact in the community with this opportunity to do better.

“We face challenges but I encourage women not to be limited by the constraints placed on you by yourself or society.

“It’s important to have women in leadership, I think it shows all of the women and young people on our site that women are equally able to be in leadership positions.

“It’s not all about leading from the top, it’s leading from the side or in the middle and continuing to challenge yourself.

“That’s another reason why I took that opportunity, to continue to try and break through to the level where I feel I can have a real impact and work with people and a community where they can all shine.”

Funded by the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership, all four women completed the course online, over a two-year period.

Year 8 level leader Leah-Nicole

Tindil said from a teaching and learning perspective the certificate has prompted the four to look outside of the standard curriculum and make sure they are providing opportunities that meet everyone’s needs and are tailored to their students.

“We’ve come out with some really valuable programs that we have started here,” she said.

“We have had feedback from other teachers about the positive impact these new programs are having.”

Year 10 level leader Lee Unwin said as a mother and educator it has been beautiful to share this journey with her students and her own daughters.

“I think it’s wonderful for them to see me as their mum and a teacher and leader becoming the

best that I can be,” she said.

“ My daughters asked why mummy was doing schoolwork and I was able to show them that I’m continuing my learning process and becoming a better educator and better leader.

“There’s no way that I would have seen myself as a leader until someone else recognised it in me and encouraged me.

“We need to be encouraging girls to be leaders and the best they can be.”

Junior years level leader Hannah Knott said it’s important to keep striving.

“Always take the opportunity to upskill yourself,” she said.

“I would encourage women to give it a go, the worst you’re going to hear is no.”

FURTHER EDUCATION: Wangaratta High School educators (from left) Leah-Nicole Tindill, Lee Unwin, Sheri Parkhouse and Hannah Knott have completed a certificate in school management and leadership from Harvard Business School.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

March forward: celebrating progress and achievement at Johnsons MME

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day (IWD) is an important opportunity to recognise the achievements of women and reflect on the progress made toward gender equality.

This year’s theme, ‘March Forward’, is a reminder that true progress comes from action and taking steps that drive change and create opportunities.

At Johnsons MME, the team are proud to celebrate the incredible women within their team who lead, inspire, and contribute to the success of their clients and the firm every day. Their commitment to achieving goals together is brought to life through the dedication, leadership, and expertise of their professionals across all areas of the business.

As an accounting and advisory firm serving Wangaratta, Albury, Wodonga, and the

surrounding regions, the team understand the value of strong partnerships and diverse perspectives.

Their female team members play a vital role in supporting their clients, whether through expert business advice, strategic financial solutions, or helping businesses navigate growth and change.

This International Women’s Day, the team acknowledge their contributions and recognise the importance of continuing to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can excel.

Supporting gender equality isn’t just about celebration, it’s about ensuring opportunities for all to lead and succeed.

At Johnsons MME, the team are proud to stand alongside their staff and clients as they march forward, turning action into progress and achieving goals together.

Celebrating women and all they can achieve

FOR business owner, Annie Heetel, International Women’s Day (IWD) is a chance to celebrate everything that is great about being a woman, everything women can and do achieve.

Annie has been running her own business for about 12 years after being in corporate life for over 20 years.

“I needed a break from constant travel and long hours so decided to start my own lunch order business for local schools,” Annie said.

“I then sold that and bought a local paint business before most recently moving into the blinds and awnings business, Inland and Coast Window Furnishings, that I am currently running just by myself.”

Annie said while enjoyed corporate life for the time, she has far more enjoyed the challenge of running her own businesses.

“I love the flexibility it gives me with my family and over the journey I have mainly employed woman in my businesses as they give so much to their job and can so easily multi-task and handle anything you throw at them.

“I have been in many industries and started from when I finished my business degree in marketing and procurement/supply chain so the main focus of any of the businesses I have owned is to capitalise on that strength which I built up with experience in the corporate world and then adapting to my own local small businesses.”

For Annie, it’s important for women to have opportunities to create their own business.

“Women should feel empowered and confident to do this and create their own life balance that suits their circumstances, use your own life experience, even if that is only your education, and do something that best

utilises your skills,” she said.

“I would encourage other women to start their own business, just do your due diligence, seek help, don’t be afraid to ask if you are not sure, and look at the market you are thinking about going into.”

EMPOWERING WOMEN: Local business owner Annie Heetel said women should feel empowered and confident to start their own business.

TEAM WORK: Kaylee Allan, Elise Stewart, Michelle Williams, Jo Northey, Mattia Ringe, Pam Voss, Danii Williams and Tracy Griffiths are vital team members at Johnsons MME.

SUPPORTIVE

TEAM: At Mason

Park Funerals

Jolanda Kruit, Emma Johnson, Harley Barr and (front) Tamara Keen prioritise supporting one another.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Supportive women in the work place

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is a reminder for the team at Mason Park Funerals to celebrate their supportive and inclusive environment.

As a business built on personal relationships, highly trained caring staff and attention to detail, are the driving factor in hiring practices rather than gender or social norms.

The team at Mason Park Funerals includes dedicated women who exemplify the strength, compassion, and resilience that women bring to every facet of life. Their commitment to

providing solace and support to their clients during the most challenging times reflects their unwavering dedication to excellence and empathy.

Office manager Tamara Keen said they have a very supportive team.

“In this industry we need to ensure that we look out for one another and have each other’s backs,” she said.

“Being women, it’s important to lean on and support each other.

“We debrief daily and will step in and help each other out when needed, whatever the role.

“Our client families are

of the utmost importance, in the darkest time of their lives, we are here for them, to guide them through creating a meaningful funeral for their loved one.

“At Mason Park we feel it’s important for us to have a mixed balance of men and women on the team.

“We prioritise creating a team that fits and works together well to create a positive outcome for our families.

“We have created a wellbalanced and inclusive work environment, and we treat each other like family.”

The Dedicated Women of the Mason Park Family

Acknowledging working mothers

FINDING THE BALANCE: Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell acknowledges the sacrifices that all working mums make juggling their careers with responsibilities at home.

AS an elected Member of the Victorian Parliament, Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell represents the constituents of the Northern Victoria Region, the largest electorate in Victoria. Although the environment is completely different to country life, Rikkie-Lee has found the diversity of Parliament House exciting and her transition to state politician a smooth one.

In the lead up to International Women’s

Day and as a working mum herself, Rikkie-Lee acknowledges the sacrifices that all working mums make juggling their careers with responsibilities at home.

“Every working parent struggles at times with the demands of both their professional and family lives, but like many my family and I have adapted to the change and have found a healthy balance by sharing responsibilities,” Rikkie-Lee said.

Striving

2025 TIPPING CHART

Balancing a career and motherhood

LOCAL mother and administration assistant at the Wangaratta Chronicle Sommer, has been balancing her love for her family and her career for the past two and a bit years.

Bridget began working at the Chronicle in the August of 2022 and loves the diversity and the social aspects of her role.

“I enjoy the variety of things we do in classifieds and there is never a dull moment at the Wangaratta Chronicle,” she said.

“I’m very much a people person so I love dealing with the public, the friendships and connections in the Wangaratta office and connecting with other branches.”

As a mother of four children, the 28-yearold has quite a bit to juggle when it comes balancing work life and home life.

Bridget said her partner’s support and decision to be a stay-at-home parent enables her to pursue her career.

“Working full-time and being a mum is a massive workload but my partner has been a stay-at-home dad since 2022 so he takes on the home duties and that is our saving grace,” she said.

International Women’s Day a reminder to make the most of your opportunities

“He is finished with his career so that I can pursue mine.

“I think it’s really important that we have been able find the balance that works for us, me working and him staying home, he loves being with our kids, and I love working.

“It does shock some people when they ask who is at home with the kids and it’s not their mum, but I think it’s important for people to know that there is nothing wrong with it.

“He is a parent in his own right and we are both really capable and able to do the roles we have chosen.”

International Women’s Day for Bridget is

reflection point of how times have changed.

“But there is still a lot that can change,” she said.

“The social norms of mum staying home with the kids and dad working is still the default for some people and it’s considered a taboo when people choose a different balance of duties.

“A lot of changes have happened, but many more are still needed.”

or five years and then I moved to classified and layouts before

be in the role; it was out of this world when it got offered to me but you never know until you give it a go.

“I would encourage other women to take any opportunities that come their way, you have to try.

“There have been two women in this role prior to me and I think that really helped.

“Having them carve a pathway and seeing them as role models has made a big difference.

Thirty-eight-year-old Kelly moved to Wangaratta, her husband’s hometown after losing their home to the Black Saturday bushfires in Clonbinane.

After this experience, Kelly has adopted a ‘seize the day’ mentality.

“After the bushfire I realised how short life can be.

“Sometimes you have to give things a go, what have you got to lose.”

Happy International Women’ Day

“I have a good community around me so when work is busy, we have deadlines or have to get a paper out I don’t have to worry, I know my family is looked after.”

Kelly believes it’s important for there to be women in leadership roles.

“You need that balance of both make and female because everyone brings different things to the table,” she said.

“It’s important to have different perspectives hen it comes to decision making.”

Kelly said balancing a managerial role and being a mother to her 14-year-old son, Chase, can be tricky but she has an amazing husband and a supportive family.

CHOSING WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU: Bridget Sommer believes it’s important women have the freedom to find the balance that works for them. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

manager Kelly Lovell encourages other women to take opportunities when they come.

Bridging the gap in the IT sector

By JORDAN DUURSMA

THE theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 is ‘March Forward’, and while there have been significant changes to move society forward, there is still along way to go to achieve gender equality.

One area highlighted by La Trobe University in the lead up to IWD is gender disparity in the IT sector.

For more than 30 years, associate dean of research and industry engagement at La Trobe University, Therese Keane, has been a champion for empowering girls in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Professor Keane said the gender disparity in VCE Computing in Victoria is striking.

“In 2023, only 123 female students sat the data analytics exam compared to 549 males, while software development had an even greater imbalance with 1411

males versus 191 females,” she said.

“This pattern continues at the tertiary level, where men significantly outnumber women in computer science and engineering degrees.

“Societal expectations, a lack of visible role models and unconscious biases discourage many young women from pursuing ITrelated studies.

“Those who do often report feeling isolated, experiencing bias or lacking encouragement from teachers and peers.

“Even after entering the workforce, many women leave IT careers within a few years due to hostile work environments, limited advancement opportunities or difficulties balancing personal and professional responsibilities.

“This underrepresentation isn’t just a diversity issue – it has real-world consequences, especially in the age of AI.”

When AI models are developed primarily by men, they tend to inherit and amplify gender biases, which can lead to:

• Flawed facial-recognition systems which misidentify women, especially women of colour, at much higher rates than men.

• Hiring algorithms that unintentionally discriminate against female candidates due to maledominated training data.

• Voice assistants (like Siri and Alexa) that default to female voices, reinforcing stereotypes of women in submissive or serviceoriented roles.

Professor Keane said diverse teams are more creative, make better decisions and develop more effective technology.

“Increasing the number of women in IT isn’t just about fairness,” she said.

“It’s about ensuring that the technology shaping our world is built for everyone, by everyone.”

Upcoming Features

CREATING A BETTER WORLD: Professor Therese Keane said increasing the number of women in IT is about ensuring that the technology shaping the world is built for everyone, by everyone.

Music to your beers

Police make major recruitment revamp

VICTORIA Police recruits will now be exempt from an entry exam with an ATAR above 65 and a study score above 25 in English.

Paramedics, firefighters and defence force personnel wanting to take up a career in policing will also be fast-tracked, no longer needing to be employed for at least five years to be exempt from the entrance exam.

The changes come as the force looks to fill more than 1000 vacancies statewide and bolster support for members on the ground.

Current university students in their final year of a criminology bachelor’s degree or similar at a university in Australia, New Zealand or the United Kingdom are also being added to the entrance exam exemption list.

Acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent said these changes mean quality applicants will no longer be held up with unnecessary obstacles to start their policing journey.

“We want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to attract those people and back the hardworking police making a difference out in the community each and every day,” he said.

“To that end we’re also taking double squads at the Victoria Police Academy for the first time in a year, with three intakes scheduled.”

The recruitment process changes will be implemented at police immediately.

For more information about Victoria Police’s recruitment process go to https://www.police. vic.gov.au/police-recruitment-process.

Memory Walk fundraiser heads to Shepparton

Bridge Road Brewers presents The High Country Hop 2025

THE High Country Hop returns on Saturday, 22 March in Beechworth.

Hosted by Bridge Road Brewers and supported by Hop Products Australia, the festival which began in 2015, celebrates the annual hop harvest and showcases fresh-hop beer collaborations with Australia’s leading brewers.

With a lineup of International and Australian artists, the festival o ers a day packed full of cra beer, live music, and family-friendly fun.

Ben Kraus, owner of Bridge Road Brewers, said the High Country Hop has steadily grown in popularity over the last decade.

“The High Country Hop is a celebration of our region, our farmers, and the incredible cra brewing community,” he said.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for the 10th edition.”

Hop highlights include:

 Fresh-Hop Brews: Exclusive

seasonal beers brewed with freshly harvested hops.

 Live Music: Featuring Kaiit, The 5678s (Japan), Darren Hanlon, Benny & The Flybyniters, and Sky High Trio.

 Cra Brewers: Including Bridge Road Brewers, Kaiju! Beer, Loveshack Brewing Co, Mountain Culture Beer Co, Range Brewing, and Wild ower Brewing & Blending, alongside High Country’s best brewers, distillers, and wineries.

 Family Fun: Enjoy activities for all ages in the Arty Party Village, including Box Wars.

The High Country Hop starts at 11.30am and runs until 8pm at Beechworth’s Historic Precinct Reserve (Police Paddocks).

Tickets are on sale now for $59 (includes $10 of drink tokens) with family tickets also available at www.thehighcountryhop.com.au.

Tap and go rolling out statewide after “successful” start to Wangaratta trial

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

MYKIS are on the way out as the state government announced the rollout of tap and go payments for public transport across Victoria will begin next year following a “successful” trial in Wangaratta.

Four bus routes within the rural city have been operating the new technology since early December, giving travellers the option to pay for full fare tickets using their bank cards, phones and smart watches.

State government data revealed 79 per cent of full fare tickets were purchased using the contactless payment method across December and January in the rural city.

Wangaratta was chosen to trial tap-and-go payments due to its

DEMENTIA Australia’s largest annual fundraising event, Memory Walk & Jog, is heading to Shepparton for the very first time to help raise funds in support of people living with dementia, their families and carers.

This year walkers, runners and joggers will set off on Sunday, June 4 at Victoria Park Lake, Shepparton to raise money, awareness and to get active for their brain health.

Dementia Australia says there are more than 1,280 people living with dementia in the Greater Shepparton region.

It says there are an estimated 708 people living with all forms of dementia in the Rural City of Wangaratta region - that number projected to increase to 1403 by the year 2054.

Dementia Australia ambassador Takaya Honda laid down a challenge for the community of Shepparton and surrounds, calling on everyone to get involved in Memory Walk & Jog by either walking, running, volunteering, donating or supporting 2025 participants.

“The Victorian community should get involved in Memory Walk & Jog because dementia is a disease that touches so many lives - mine included,” Takaya said.

“My mother passed away from dementia in 2023, and I saw firsthand how devastating and isolating the disease can be, not only for the person living with it but also for their family.

“For those affected, Memory Walk & Jog is more than a fundraiser, it’s a place to connect with others who truly understand the journey.

SUCCESSFUL START: The state government are rolling out contactless ticketing payments statewide a er 79 per cent of travellers within Wangaratta’s tested four bus routes have used the new model over the past two months. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

size and its bus operations.

Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams said off the back of the successful start to the Wangaratta trial, more than 20,000 new card readers would be installed across metropolitan and V/Line train networks over the coming months.

She said from early 2026, cardless ticketing will be rolled out across the train network and then progressively introduced on buses and trams.

“From early next year, we will begin rolling out tap and go technology across our public transport network – providing passengers more ways to

pay for their travel,” she said.

“This project crosses every mode of public transport and requires extensive testing, so we will take a careful and considered approach as we roll out tap and go technology.”

The 15-year $1.7 billion contract to update the system was won by Conduent Transportation in mid-2023 and included the introduction of new technology.

The six-month Wangaratta trial was being conducted for the state government to better understand the technology which will help shape the design of the rollout ticketing rollout across the state.

Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy previously stated the trial was a “gimmick” and Victoria’s public transport system was an embarrassment compared to its domestic and overseas counterparts.

“For me, it was comforting to share space with people who had walked similar paths, offering a sense of community in what can often feel like an isolating experience.

“When you join us, you’re helping to create hope, connection and change for families like mine - your support means the world to so many of us.”

This year Dementia Australia hopes to have a record-breaking number of people sign up to participate across Australia, helping to raise more than $2 million to fund invaluable support, education and services for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said communities participating in Memory Walk & Jog play an integral role in helping to deliver services and increasing awareness of dementia.

A Memory Walk & Jog event will also be held in Albury-Wodonga on Saturday, May 3, at Belvoir Park in Wodonga.

Registrations are now open for 2025 Memory Walk & Jog events at www. memorywalk.com.au.

MORE THE MERRIER: Happy times are guaranteed at the annual celebration of the the annual hop harvest.

• Alison Bodman and Shirley Stanborough.

• Ray Kidd and Rob Kuipers

• Dawn Phipps and Brenda Masters.

• Wendy Waddington and Janice Cavicchiolo.

• May Grinter and Lois Chandler.

• June Chopping and Elaine Finn.

• Jan Woodford.

• Joye Coombs and Paula McGavin.

• Vicki and Margaret Bear.

FESTIVAL FOR A CAUSE

THE Brighter Days Festival is set to electrify Bright this March long weekend with top Aussie musicians, local motorbikes and cars - all in support of children’s charities.

The 14th annual three-day family friendly fundraiser will run from today until Sunday at Pioneer Park, with a stellar music line up, along with free kids activities, food trucks, retail stalls, car and bike show ‘n shine, kids amusements an ride, and much more.

Formed in 2012 to offer support to children’s charities, the fundraising event is run by a volunteer committee with the support of the local Bright and surrounding communities, the Alpine Shire Council and loyal sponsors.

During that time, the team is proud to have donated more than $4,409,580 to charities.

This year the annual festival is on track to surpass an incredible $5 million in total donations.

The festival lineup includes Casey Barnes, Thirsty Merc, Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows and Eurogliders.

For more information or ticket sales, visit https://www.brighterdays.org.au/.

Council votes to object to Dederang BESS proposal

ALPINE Shire Council will formally object to Mint Renewable’s planning proposal for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Dederang.

In front of a vocal crowd at last week’s monthly council meeting in Mt Beauty, a majority of councillors voted in support of formally submitting a letter of objection against the granting of a permit for the proposal to Victorian Minister for Planning, Sonya Kilkenny, who is responsible for making the nal decision.

Council o cers had recommended to councillors that they

support the proposal on planning grounds, however Cr Dave Byrne moved an alternative motion, seconded by Cr Jean-Pierre Ronco and supported by councillors Noah Tanzen, Gareth Graham and Peter Smith, that council object to the proposal.

All ve councillors noted concerns within the community about the proposal, with Cr Graham o ering that “it’s a good idea but in the wrong place...no deal”.

Council cited insu cient information, impact on signicant landscape, loss of agricultural land, bush re risk, im-

pact on waterways, impact on community and environment and economic bene ts.

Mayor Cr Sarah Nicholas, and Cr John Andersen voted against the motion.

Mayor Nicholas told those at the meeting that there were people who supported the proposal and she believed the “genuine concerns have in the most part being managed by the risk management plan that Mint Renewables have submitted as part of its application”.

Mint Renewables’ BESS Dederang application before Minister Kilkenny seeks approval for

the use and development of a utility installation with an indicative installed capacity of 400MWh on private land located approximately two kilometres northwest of Dederang township.

An area of approximately 9.5 hectares will be utilised, comprising four hectares for BESS and an onsite substation, and 5.5 hectares for access tracks, underground cabling and temporary construction areas.

In a statement issued by council last Friday, Mayor Nicholas said council carefully considered feedback from the community before making its decision.

“We understand the concerns raised by residents, particularly around the location, re risk and the potential impact on the surrounding area,” she said.

“Council is committed to supporting renewable energy and recognises the vital role BESS plays in ensuring reliable energy storage, however in this instance, council did not feel this particular site was the right t.

“The potential risks and effects on the local community were key factors in council’s decision.”

Mayor Nicholas con rmed

council will be making a submission to Minister Kilkenny “to ensure that the concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding re risk and emergency management, are clearly represented”.

“It’s important that the voices of our community are heard and that safety remains a priority in any future decision-making,” she said.

“The next step is for the minister to review the application and consider submissions from all stakeholders, including council and the local community.”

Fleur de Lys - ideally located cottage

THIS three-bedroom cottage is ideally situated in the tree-lined location of Docker Street in Wangaratta.

The central open plan kitchen and living area enjoys plenty of natural light, facing out onto the covered back alfresco and secure courtyard.

High ceilings, real timber floors and fresh carpet to the bedrooms creates a cozy and charming cottage atmosphere.

At the front of the home you will find

two large bedrooms, both with built-in robes and conveniently adjacent to the main family bathroom.

Beyond the central living area, the spacious master bedroom at the rear of the cottage is complimented with a private ensuite.

Comfort is assured year-round with the inclusion of ducted gas heating, evaporative cooling and a reverse cycle split system in the main living area. There is off-street parking for two ve-

hicles via a double carport, and secure additional storage with a tool shed, both accessible from the rear courtyard.

Set on approximately 364m2, this low maintenance cottage is conveniently located close to Northeast Health, train station and a short walk to Wangaratta’s CBD and all the lifestyle benefits it has to offer.

To arrange your private inspection, contact Garry Nash & Co today.

Share in up to $10,000 for your

positioned 1.5km to Moyhu township. INSPECTION & ATTENDANCE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Greenslopes - rural lifestyle charm

DISCOVER this beautifully renovated lifestyle opportunity on 25 acres (approx) near Benalla.

Designed for family comfort, the property offers five bedrooms and two bathrooms with open plan living.

The master bedroom offers a flexible layout, while four additional bedrooms include built-in storage and ceiling fans.

The land is divided into seven paddocks, including two front house paddocks, offering ample space for the horse enthusiast to establish an arena, convert the outbuildings to stables, or create a charming hobby farm with a few head of cattle or sheep.

The property benefits from a two megalitre stock and domestic water license, supplemented by two natural dams, ensuring water security.

Practical features include a four-bay shed, solar security gate, and two Colorbond fenced yards with a separate pet enclosure.

A one-bedroom self-contained bun-

5 2 2

Agent | Garry Nash & Co

Phone | 03 5722 2663

Price | $1,049,000

Land | 25 acres (approx)

Location | 229 Goomalibee Road, Benalla

galow offers additional accommodation.

Experience the best of both worlds at “Greenslopes”, a charming rural setting only five minutes from Benalla’s town centre where you can enjoy cafes, shopping, the beautiful rose gardens, art gallery and lake boardwalk. Call the team at Garry Nash & Co today to arrange your private inspection.

Wangaratta 125 Swan Street,

Superb

Nutrien

Moyhu 33-35 Bartley

Nutrien

Beechworth 12 Hodge Street

Nutrien

Oxley 201 Oxley-Meadow Creek Road

Wangaratta 26 Collyn-Dale Drive

Spacious

Wangaratta 39 & 39A Murphy Street 353m2 High Exposure CENTRAL Wangaratta

days View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L20130537

Boorhaman 740 Boland Road

476 Ac

“Boorhaman Acerage”

Grazing and/or Cropping ready to go. A ordable

Harcourts

Pick-up far from a workshy mate

■ A GENUINE WORKHORSE: Toyota WorkMate boasts improved safety and performance.

RETAINING that thought throughout a week with the workhorse failed to take the edge o initial utilitarian impressions: horses for courses of course.

Not that ‘old mate’ harked back to some long-past Luddite era.

Depending on the grade, the new WorkMate boasts a line up of automotive advances such as Bluetooth connectivity, Toyota Safety Sense suite of measures, Toyota Connected Services and power this and that.

Performance also is taken to new heights with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine with VActive technology.

There is still the tried-and-true 2.4-litre turbo-diesel available.

All are covered by Toyota’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

The WorkMate is scattered throughout the numerous variants of the most popular vehicle in Australia, the HiLux, straddling the 2.7L Single Cab Cab-Chassis RWD manual at $26,475, plus on-road costs, to the test car, the Workmate 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel Double Cab Pick-Up, six-speed auto, at $50,420.

STYLING

Nothing on the outside appears dated.

The HiLux Double Cab Pick-Up looks the goods in the company of any of its ubiquitous rivals.

Note:

However, embellishment is sparse.

There’s not even a protective tub liner, just painted metal, as though it’s not afraid of hard work: a genuine ute.

A body-coloured grille surround is home to automatic headlamps, and halogen daytime running lights.

In recent upgrades, all pick-ups now carry a gloss black rear bumper and side mirrors, while conveniently for loading include a semiautomatic damped tailgate.

The ute rolls on 17-inch wheels rapped in 265/65 R17 tyres and is topped o by a modern shark fin antenna.

INTERIOR

Inside the double cab is seating for five, the driver and front passenger in bucket seats, the rear 60:40 split (only the latter accessible), all done out in quality fabric, the doors in black trim.

The floor is durable black vinyl, the test car adding optional removable rubber mats, a boon to keep the interior looking fresh.

There are power windows all round, the driver’s automatic, for access to fresh country air.

However, the air-conditioning is limited to manual operation and is not easy to operate on the move.

The steering wheel has manual tilt-and-reach function and has switches for phone, voice recognition and audio control.

There’s a separate power accessory socket.

Storage consists of a large glove compartment, plus a centre console with lid.

Cup holders are found in the dash.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The test car relied on the lesser of two diesel engines – a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel motor developing 110kW at 3400rpm and 400Nm between 1600 and 2000rpm.

It was mated with a sixspeed automatic transmission and put power to ground through all four wheels.

SAFETY

The HiLux attracted a fivestar ANCAP safety rating on 2019 testing.

Since then, the Toyota Safety Sense system has taken care of occupants through things such as lane departure alert, a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, speed sign assist – a touch wayward at times – and high-speed active cruise control.

Seven airbags carry the passive safety banner.

DRIVING

The Toyota HiLux Workmate Double Cab Pick-Up is no town car.

With an unladen tub, the test vehicle was jarring on uneven suburban road surfaces and jolting over potholes.

A long(ish) jaunt in the test truck left some passengers ride weary.

The double wishbone/ leaf spring rigid axle set-up, I should imagine, is more suited to transporting chook food or

cattle fodder, the latter, perhaps, to be delivered to the remotest paddock.

The 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine attracted few complaints, without paying too much attention to the performance.

Toyota claims fuel consumption on the combined urban/highway cycle at 8.6 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres.

The test vehicle recorded 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres on mainly city and suburban driving.

The five metre-plus long juggernaut, with 12.6 metre turning circle and large steering wheel, is a devil to park in restricted shopping centre spots and regularly came up with a prominent white-line overhang.

A reversing camera went some way to easing any stress here.

On the other hand, ground clearance of 317mm and wheelbase of 3085mm makes light work of bashing about the bush.

A 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked towing capacity is recommended.

Like the rest of the HiLux crowd, the WorkMate security systems cover remote keyless entry, power locks and alarm, plus engine immobilizer.

SUMMARY

With all those fancy-pant pick-ups parading the streets, it’s good to see there’s one genuine workhorse upholding the traditions of the ute.

Well done, mate, keep up the good work.

RATINGS Looks: 7

Performance: 4

Safety: 6

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 7 Comfort: 5

Tech: 7

Value: 8

SPECIFICATIONS

(Toyota HiLux Workmate 2.4-litre 4-cyl turbodiesel Double Cab Pick-Up, 6sp auto)

ENGINE

Capacity: 2393cc

Configuration: four cylinders inline

Maximum power 110kW @ 3400rpm

Maximum torque: 400Nm @ 1600-2000rpm

Fuel type: Diesel

Combined fuel cycle: (ADR 81/02) 8.6L/100km

CO2 emissions: 227g/km

DRIVELINE: Six-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT, AND CAPACITIES

Length: 5320mm

Width: 1855mm

Height: 1865mm

Wheelbase: 3085mm

Turning circle: 12.6m

Kerb weight: 2165kg Fuel tank: 80L

BRAKES

Front: Ventilated disc Rear: Drum

STANDARD WARRANTY Five years / unlimited kilometres

By DEREK OGDEN, MARQUE MOTORING

Rural City Connection

March Into Sustainability

This year’s events and workshops present topics such as native wildlife, biodiversity, and food security, o ering educational insights and memorable experiences for people of all ages. Upcoming events: 15 March | Autumn Harvest Festival at Cheshunt Hall. 18 March | Perfect Nature Patterns (for 3-5 yr olds) at the Library.

Get involved and explore the full schedule here: https://bit.ly/3ERt1Ls

Need Support

Chat to our friendly Aged Care team each Thursday between 10 – 2pm at the Wangaratta Library. If you have questions about Home Care Packages, My Aged Care, or ways to stay safe and independent at home, we will guide you through your options. No appointment needed—just drop by. Prefer to chat on the phone? Give us a call on 1300 982 662.

Youth Hub Clothes Swap

The clothes swap will give young people the opportunity to look through a variety of clothes. Grab a few pieces or swap some of their unwanted items. It’s a free, easy, and sustainable way to update your wardrobe and adapt your evolving style. Take this opportunity to check out the Youth Hub at the same time.

Monday 17 March from 3.30-5.30pm at 29 Flanagan St, Wangaratta.

Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect

Municipal Early Years Plan

Help shape our Municipal Early Years Plan by having your say. This plan shapes early years programs and support for children 0-12 in our Rural City. Tell us what’s available, where support is needed, and what that looks like for your family. Survey closes on 14 March 2025.

Events & Attractions Strategy

Help guide Council’s investment and define community priorities for events in Wangaratta. This draft strategy incorporates the desire from the community to have a diverse events calendar, which reflects our welcoming, accessible and inclusive community. The Survey closes on 28 March.

Council Plan Workshops

We’re developing our Council Plan and want to hear from you! Join one of our workshops at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre. Share what matters most and receive a $100 voucher as a thank you. Registrations are a must: https://bit.ly/4gJ6E8j

15 March, 10am-1pm 17 March, 9:30am-12:30pm 18 March, 9:30am-12:30pm

Business Health Check 2025

The Rural City of Wangaratta’s first-ever Business Health Check Survey is here! Share what’s working, what’s not, and how we can better support local businesses like yours. Survey closes Friday, 2 May 2025.

Rowan Street Pedestrian Underpass Improvement Works

Drainage improvements near the Rowan Street Pedestrian Underpass (Rowan Street Service Roadside) will occur on March 12 and 13. Public access to both pedestrian/ cyclist bridges over Rowan Street Underpass will be unavailable during this time. The west-side pedestrian bridge will reopen after the works, but the city-side bridge will remain closed until its ramp is restored in the following weeks. Pedestrians and cyclists should use alternative routes during the works, such as the underpass access in Templeton Street or the Pedestrian Bridge over Rail Lines accessible from Gray Street or Norton Street.

Community Satisfaction Survey

From now until mid-March your household may receive a call from an independent market research agency, who have been commissioned to conduct a community satisfaction survey on behalf of Council. A sample of residents will be interviewed to assess Council’s performance across a range of measures. Your details and responses are confidential, only the overall results are shared with Council. Thank you for taking the time to provide your valuable feedback. If you have any questions, please call Council on 5722 0888.

Tenders

16194 Level 3 Playground Inspections

Tender closes at 2pm on Tuesday 12 March 2025.

65329 Rangeview Avenue Footpath Tender closes at 2pm on Thursday 20 March 2025.

Further details may be obtained by visiting EProcure on Council’s website.

Positions Vacant

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

IN PERSON BY PHONE

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

Letz Danze

Learn to Rock’n’Roll JOIN OUR BEGINNERS CLASS 7pm Mondays

Commencing March 17, 2025

Wareena Hall, Swan St, Wangaratta 6 week block of lessons

Cost is $45 pp for 6 week block

Learn basic moves, footwork and hand holds

No experience or partner required

Friendly atmosphere with experienced instructors and members of Wangaratta Rockers to support you along the way!

Enquiries phone:

Graeme 0432 261 607

Denise 0413 604 385

Wangaratta Table Tennis Association

Autumn Comp Muster Nights

March 5 & March 12, 2025

SENIOR GRADES - 7PM

JUNIOR GRADES - 6PM TO 7PM

ALL NEW AND PAST PLAYERS WELCOME

All enquiries: Tom Brown 0429 809 927

2007 NISSAN PATROL Ti, manual, mods, approx 190k on the clock, available early May, selling due to moving interstate, $30,000 ono, open to negotiation, (1YP8XF). Contact Jason 0434 590 566.

STYLISH and collectable “Fossil” womens leather wallet, tan in colour with fold over leather clasp and “Fossil Badge” approx 8 inches x 5 inches in size, contains personal cards, lost at Kmart in a trolley, reward for information and return. Ph 0418 175 624.

Monster Garage Sale

Sat 8 March, 8am - 2pm

Sun 9 March, 8am - 12pm

99 Shanley Street, Wangaratta (Sale Yards)

Electrical tools (all tested and tagged), Thicknesser (new), Timber, garden tools, work benches, tools, wooden enclosed boxes, fridge, garden Shed, drills, tool boxes, chairs, safety equipment, drop saw, plumbing supplies, band saw, jerry cans, concrete tools, bags of kindling, shovels, rakes, kids /adult bikes, boxes of books, brochure cabinet, timber cabinet, chopping boards, electrical leads, pallets of timber, chainsaw, wooden bench seat, exercise bike, mirrors, timber products, wall heater, assorted tables, wheel chair, train, drill press. Well over 500 items. Cash only. EVERYTHING MUST GO

VACUUM CLEANER REPAIRS Repairs and services to all makes and models, free quotes, pickups and deliveries. Phone 0435 779 967.

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

DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work nd us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry. com.au or phone 0413 660 636.

FRANKS DOG TRAINING, behavioral solutions, quali ed, experienced, a ordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610

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

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

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

FOR sale 5000 Indigo Bank Beechworth shares, a good investment at $2 a share, buy now for only $1.75. Ph 0429 139 474.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

TENTERFIELD

QUEEN bedroom suite, includes queen bed frame with large headboard and fabric accent, 2x2 drawer side tables, 1x5 drawer horizontal cabinet, purchased from Harvey Norman 2019, $1,500 ono, pick up Wangaratta, Contact Jason 0434 590 566.

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 169,000km, 5spd manual, 4x4, full service history, no o road, no accidents, black duck seat covers from new, new tyres, reg (1AL4YU), RWC, $32,000. Phone Allan 0400 541 599.

MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books, 11,875kms, RWC, $27,750. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.

MAZDA 6GT wagon, 2014, 2.2litre twin turbo diesel, 6 speed auto, leather interior, 129,000 km, Mazda serviced since new, rego expires October 2025 (1DZ 7ZL), excellent condition, $14,000. Ph 0438 556 959.

ROYAL Enfield 350 Hunter 2022, great learner’s bike, 3400km long rego, still under warranty, 2U4PN. Ph 0411 519 496 or 5721 3727.

AUSTRALIAN o -road camper trailer, made in Australia, full annexe, hot water, many accessories, excellent condition $22,000. Ph 0427 002 860.

FULL TIME FARM HAND/WORKER

We’re seeking enthusiastic people, who have a passion and experience in livestock and cropping. Our family farm is centrally located between Wangaratta, Benalla, and Yarrawonga, with a main focus on prime lamb, cereal cropping and a newly acquired Poll Dorset Ram Stud.

Tasks include every aspect of the farm as the seasons change. Lambing, shearing, droving, animal health, sowing, spraying, harvesting, machinery maintenance, stock replacement and pasture care. Experience and knowledge favoured and the ability to work as a team and individually is required.

Above award wages offered and further extras available to the right person. Applications including a cover letter and resume can be sent to jameses@live.com.au by March, 21, 2025 Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. For more information call Steve on 0412 652 376.

• Safe and

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BENALLA

RURAL CITY COUNCIL

Project Manager - Collaborative Digital Transformation Project (CODI) (Full- Time) Two Year Contract

We are seeking applications from suitably experienced and enthusiastic people for the position of Project Manager - Collaborative Digital Transformation Project (CODI).

This Project Management role will coordinate the delivery of the CODI Project within Council. Based at Councils Customer Service Centre, Benalla, and reporting to the Manager Facilities and Information Technology (MFIT), you will use your well-developed organisational skills to manage delivery of the project. Tasks include budget monitoring, reporting against milestones, and liaison with all Council staff to ensure CODI project deadlines are met.

For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Manager Facilities and Information Technology Greg Robertson 0409 529 463.

Corporate

Support Officer – People and Performance

We are seeking a dedicated Corporate Support Officer to join our People and Performance team. This position is responsible for the delivery of a full range of administration functions associated with the People and Performance Team.

In this role you will be responsible for:

ƒ Working collaboratively with the Payroll Coordinator, including being the backup for the running of the fortnightly pays in the Payroll Coordinator’s absence and undertaking the paycheck process with the Payroll Coordinator prior to the pay runs.

ƒ Ensure People and Performance information system data (ELMO HR System) is accurate and appropriately maintained in the absence of the Human Resources Coordinator.

ƒ Support the Manager People and Performance to implement People and Performance processes, improve service delivery and work on ad hoc projects as required within the department.

To be successful in this role you will need to:

ƒ have proven experience in payroll processing.

ƒ have a strong administrative background with excellent organisational and time management skills.

ƒ be detail-oriented and possess a high level of accuracy in your work.

ƒ have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with colleagues and external stakeholders.

ƒ be proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.

ƒ Previous experience in human resources or a related field is highly desirable.

For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Manager People and Performance Janine McMaster on 5760 2661.

Download an Employment Information Pack for any of these positions at www.benalla.vic.gov.au or obtain a pack from Human Resources Coordinator Rhonda McDonald, telephone 03 5760 2662.

Applications addressing key selection should reach us by 5pm Friday 14 March 2025.

Benalla Rural City Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Child Safe Organisation.

HUMAN RESOURCES ADMINISTRATOR

Brown Family Wine Group are seeking a part time Administrator to join the Human Resources Team at the Milawa site, to support the HR functions across all locations. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for:

• recruitment and selection administration

• planning and preparation of induction and onboarding

• supporting HR projects and people related initiatives

• general administrative assistance and support the HR team We are looking for someone with great interpersonal skills and a genuine passion for people to assist us in delivering best in class HR support to the Brown Family Wine Group. Ideally, we are looking for applicants who have previous experience in an administrative role with a high level of resilience and adaptability. Strong phone, email and inperson communication skills and pro ciency in the Microsoft Of ce Suite are also a must.

What’s on Offer:

• Permanent part-time role (20-23 hours per week over 3 or 4 days)

• Generous employee bene ts including discounts on all products

• Opportunities for career and professional development

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing Ashlee at careers@brownfwg.com.au or calling 0479 195 980.

Applications close Monday, 10 March, 2025.

BRADFIELD, Audrey Beryl.

15/3/1935 – 4/3/2025

The family of Audrey Brad eld is saddened to announce her passing on March 4, 2025.

A beautiful lady, loved by all who met her.

www.benalla.vic.gov.au

Truck Driver/Meat Lumper

Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person able to be a delivery driver to distribute carcass meat throughout Victoria and the Riverina to local butchers and supermarkets. Early morning starts to allow delivery to butchers during the day and some heavy lifting is involved. We are prepared to teach the suitable person lifting techniques to assist with carcass deliveries.

HEAVY RIGID LICENSE ESSENTIAL.

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

Dad/Grandpa/ Great-Grandpa.

With love from your family in Adelaide.

DAVID EVELYNWILLIAMS

Our Vision is to provide pathways for all to succeed based on their individual gifts and talents. Join our amazing team of educators and a professional environment that is passionate, collegial and focused on learning for all. We are currently seeking applicants for the following ongoing position:

VCE Biology / Science Teacher

VCE Mathematical Methods / Secondary Mathematics Teacher

Or any combination of any of the above teaching methods. We are currently seeking applicants for the following Position of Leadership: House Leader (POL 3)

Applications close on Wednesday 12th March at 12pm.

For further details on how to apply please visit our website  https://www.galen.vic.edu.au/employment/

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

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

With a broader readership, placing your employment ad in NorthEast Jobs makes sense.

Happy 95th Birthday ~ Love Rhys, Paul and Jane. And from Betty. xo

Available for

and all your

MEANEY ~ GALES Jocelyn, Sean and their families are excited to celebrate their wedding day in Beechworth on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

BRADFIELD, Audrey. Members of the Tarrawingee Golf Club are saddened to hear of the sudden passing of one of our valued members. Audrey was well loved and respected and will be sadly missed.

DEVERELL, Karen Anne. 13/8/1969-19/2/2025 Close in our hearts she will always stay. A funeral to honour the life of Karen will be held TODAY. For funeral details visit North East Funerals website.

DEVERELL, Karen

The Galen Catholic College community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our friend and colleague, Karen.

Deepest sympathy and condolences to Bernie, Megan, Emma and the extended family. May she rest in peace.

Celebrant Roxanne Bodsworth

Marriages, Namings, Funerals,

celebrancy needs.

KING (nee Miller), Lyn (Lynette).

1/3/1941 – 1/3/2025

Passed away peacefully on her 84th birthday at the Myrtleford Lodge.

Adored wife of Jim (James) King. Cherished mother of Belinda (dec), Jamie and Jenny.

Beloved Ninny (grandmother) to Ebony and Luca.

Mother-in-law to Maurice and step Ninny to Jenna and Georgia.

Daughter to Ted and Eileen Miller. Much loved sister of Allan (dec), Lance and Glenn (dec).

Dear sister-in-law to Rosie, Helen, Priscilla, Walter, Shirley, Patricia, Stephen, Edith, Cheryl, David and Judith. Favourite Aunty to all her nieces and nephews.

Finally united with your beautiful Belinda.

Always so loving, thoughtful and kind, what beautiful memories you leave behind. You may have le this world behind, But you will never leave our hearts and mind.

With tears we saw you su er, We watched you fade away, Our hearts were slowly breaking

As you fought so hard to stay.

~ The grief and heartache we feel Bears witness to the depth of our love. You never failed to do your best, Your heart was true and tender. You simply lived for those you loved, And those you loved remember. Life is not measured by the years you live, But the love you gave and the things you did.

So ly within the shadows, There came a gentle call, With farewells le unspoken, You quietly le us all.

Now you are peacefully sleeping Away from all your pain, But the love in our hearts will always remain.

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

Special thanks to the wonderful team at Myrtleford Lodge for your care and support of Lyn for the past ten years.

WATKINS, Mervyn James “Jim”.

12/7/1935 – 4/3/2025

Loving husband of Joan (dec). Devoted Dad and Jim to Vicki and Herman, Gary and Tricia, Debbie and Joe, Karen and Craig, Trudi and Nathan.

Adoring Pop of Coby and Dean, Brooke and Bede, Zoe, Kayla, Jordan and Maria, Logan and Ella, Kade and Sienna.

Special Poppy Jim to Lilli, Chase, Noah, Charlie, Heidi and Oliver.

Gone shing

WATKINS, Mervyn James (Jim).

12/7/1935 – 4/3/2025

Sister of Dot and brother-in-law of Max. Uncle of Greg and Liza, Brian and Jacqui, Dale and Julie, and their families.

The things we feel so deeply, are the hardest things to say. You will always be remembered in a very special way.

WATKINS, Mervyn

“Jim”, James.

Much loved brother and brother-in-law of Betty and Ted Bennett (both dec). Loved Uncle Jim to Rosalie, Darryl, Gayle, Carolyn, Sheryl, Glenn, Shane, and families.

Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.

BRADFIELD

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mrs Audrey Brad eld will be held in The Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street,Wangaratta on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 2pm.

A private cremation will be held. Audrey’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

KING (nee Miller), Lyn (Lynette).

1/3/1941 – 1/3/2025

The funeral for the late Lyn King will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025 at 3pm at St Pauls Anglican Church, Myrtleford and Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery. Then to the Myrtleford Golf Club for food and refreshments.

WATKINS

The service to celebrate the life of Mr Mervyn James “Jim” Watkins will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 10.30am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

WRIGHT, Vern.

We would like to thank all who helped us though Vern’s last weeks and sent messages of sympathy, owers and attendance at his funeral.

Thank you also to St Johns for the quiet room at the end of his time with us, and Mason Park Funerals for their care of us all.

~ Pat Wright and family. KIELY, Gordon.

Vanessa, Jodie and Helen wish their many friends and relations for helping us making Gordon’s farewell how he wished it to be.

Thank you.

STEELE, Nicholas. 8/3/1985 – 8/10/2007 Happy 40th Birthday! Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, And cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, For as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.

~ Love Mum, Dad, Jon, Kacey, George, Sarah, Paul, Nicola and Timothy.

STEELE, Nicholas Frank. Happy 40th Birthday Nick. We wish so much that you were here to celebrate with us on March 8.

~ Much love Jo, Ben and Nga.

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 owers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

Galen rounds out school swim carnival season

By SIMONE KERWIN

CHAMPAGNAT House took out Galen Catholic College’s recent swimming carnival.

While there was a range of activities on o er around the pool during the annual carnival, the highlight was the action in the water.

Swimmers gave it their all in the college’s rst major sporting event of the 2025 school year, with several recording personal bests and even setting new records.

The crowd was thrilled to witness Declan O’Sullivan win the 18 years male 50m freestyle record in a time of 26.10, to break the longstanding record of 26.18, which was set in 1999 by B. Tehan.

Declan also set a new record for the open age 50m Super Swim with a time of 26.03, surpassing his own record of 26.19 from 2024.

Year seven student Patrick Hunter competed in the Super Swim against year 11 and 12 students, and placed h,

while fellow year seven Lucy Beavis stamped herself as a swimmer to watch by competing in every event and placing rst.

Out of the pool, year 12s followed tradition by wearing vibrant costumes and house colours to set the tone of the day for their fellow students.

The adjoining Barr Reserve oval o ered a host of activities for those not involved in the pool, including cricket, soccer and spike ball, ensuring everyone stayed entertained.

The di erent houses also hosted food stalls, raising funds for their respective charities while simultaneously feeding the crowd.

For students who might have felt overwhelmed by the day’s festivities, a ‘chill-out zone’ was available, where sta supported students in a quiet space to relax and recharge before rejoining the action. This initiative ensured everyone could enjoy the day at their own pace.

TO THE RESCUE: Imogen Lake, Olivia Williams, Niamh Lavis, Reese Chuck, Neve Gay, Audrey Pro (front) Isabella Saunders, Ella Antonello, Evelyn Hooper and Charlie Whitechurch. Amelia Mullavey and Amelia Aylward.

COLOURFUL: Galen College students Emelia Oates and Jose Obaniana.

STAR PERFORMER: Declan O’Sullivan broke his own record in the open age 50m SuperSwim, and also set a new record in the 18 years male 50m freestyle, breaking a record set in 1999.

DRESS-UP DAY: Year 12 students dressed in an array of colourful outfits, including this group wearing Tarrawingee netball uniforms. Pictured are (back) Charlie Eames, Cody Johnson, Kaeden Burrows, Mario Sacco, Riley Burrows, Charlie Kerwin, Hunter Barry, Oscar Csaszar, (front) Hudson Lloyd, Archer Hill, Mossy Alker-Jones, Brodie Ayers and Curtis Hines.

SCOREBOARD

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

FRIDAY, 28 February

Men’s 4BBB

Winners: Alan Sands and David McFarland 46. Runner up: Mark Flack and Mitch Bush 45. Third: Graeme Ulbrick and Larry Ball 44.

NTPs - 4th: Steve Siggers, 8th: Gary Dinsdale, 13th: Collin Milligan, 17th: Glenn O’Connell.

Ladies 4BBB

Winner: Mary Jones and Marion Hunt 44. Runner up: Robyn Ottaway and Marilyn Pane 43. Third: Lee Freeland and Janet Wraith 41, countback from Kerri and Val 41.

NTPs - 4th: Alison Comensoli, 8th: Vicki Moorhead, 13th: Kerri Newton, 17th: Robyn Ottaway.

Saturday, 1 March

Ladies stableford

Winner: Linda Stone 41. Runner up: Josie Fitzsimons 38. Ball Winners: Alison Comensoli C/B 36, Melody Adams 36.

NTPs - 4th: K Roberts, 8th: A Comensoli, 13th: K Roberts, 17th: M Adams.

Men’s A Grade stroke, B-D Grade Stableford

A Grade Scratch: Daniel McPhee

70. A Grade Winner: Aaron Kungl -7. Runner up: Daniel McPhee -4.

B Grade Winner: Gavin Braybrook

39. Runner up: Alex Jones C/B 36.

C Grade Winner: Michael Baillie 37. Runner up: Colin Braden 35.

D Grade Winner: Bernie Grealy C/B 39. Runner up: Mike Fitzsimons 39. Ball winners: Mitchell Bush

36, Andrew Charles 35, Michael Lugg 35, Rodney Sebire 35, Rick Harnwell 35, Alan Sands 35, John Porter 34, Glenn Ryan 34, Thomas Leitch 34, David O’Connor 34, William Slade 34.

NTPs - 4th: M Baillie, 8th: R Rigoni, 13th: G Rigoni, 17th: C Palmer. Sunday, 2 March

Men’s Ambrose Scramble

A Grade Winner: Rick Harnwell, Glen O’Connell, Glenn Ryan 59.34.

Runner up: Warren Rickhard, Shaun Ievenieks, Nick McGibbon 61. Third Place: Darren Jones, Jeff Elliot, Peter Challman 61.5.

NTPs - 4th: H O’Brien, 8th: G Ryan, 13th: D Johnstone, 17th: D O’Brien. Ladies Ambrose Scramble

Winner: Kellie Roberts, Ali Comsensoli, Leanne Carmody 64.5.

Runner up: Ang Mitchell, Carolyn Jeffery, Kerry Newton 65.33.

Third Place: Val Ellis, Wendy Hogan, Sheree Coghill 65.4.

NTPs - 4th: M Pane, 8th: Mary Jones, 13th: Mary Jones, 17th: L Carmody.

Monday, 3 March

Veterans 18 Hole Stableford

A Grade Winner: Ian Dinsdale 39. B Grade Winner: Alex Gibbs 39. C Grade Winner: Ian Harbourd 37. Ball winners: Brian Carr 37, Trevor Nippress 36, Chris Palmer 36, Keith Moorhead c/b 35.

NTPs - 4th: Ian Harbourd, 8th: David O’Connor, 13th: Bill O’Brien. Tuesday, 4 March

Ladies Stableford

Winner: Josie Fitzsimons 36. Ball Winners: Vicki Moorhead (2) 35, Lee Freeland 33.

9-hole winner: Robyn Grealy C/B Pauline Mercer 20.

NTPs - 4th: Frances Duffy, 8th: Vicki Moorhead, 13th: Joy Hester, 17th: Leeanne Carmody.

Wednesday, 5 March

Men’s 18-hole stableford

A Grade Winner: Keith Moorhead 39.

B Grade Winner: Phillip Bebb 42.

Ball winners: Gordon Hines 35, Michael Baillie 34, Gary Butler 34, Brian Luxford 33, Pat Grady 32.

NTPs - 4th: K Moorhead, 8th: B Luxford, 13th: P Bebb, 17th: P Grady.

WANGARATTA

GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending 2 March Tuesday, 25 February

MOVING ALONG: Followers of sport in Wangaratta are keeping a close eye on the progress of Wareena Park’s development. This week has seen the Swan Street ground being levelled out, in preparation for instant turf to be laid later this month. This will then be over-sown with a winter grass to ensure the surface is durable. Training is expected to resume on the oval in mid-to-late April, depending on weather conditions.

Women’s

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Jacqui Hoggan 36 points.

Runner Up: Ash Wheeler 35 points.

Ball Winners: Barbara Thomas, Dawn Fleet, Candice Jones, Karen Smith.

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Annie Wilson 18 points.

Runner Up: Barbara Woodward 16 points.

NTPs - 4th: Jill Halbwidl. Wednesday, 26 February

Men’s

18 Hole Stableford Event

Winner: Matthew Walsh 37 points.

Runner Up: Stephen Beavis 35 points C/B.

Ball Winners: Lachy Moore, Geoffrey Webster, Mark Hall, Trevor Clark, Bobby Hutchieson, Rod Moyle, Chris Oates.

NTPs - 4th: Andrew Storer, 7th: Glenn Burns, 11th: Andy Raison, 13th: Dean Campagna, 16th: Michael Webster.

9 Hole Stableford Event

Winner: Graeme Beale 22 points.

Runner Up: John Millman 19 points

Ball Winners: Bill Griffiths, John Walker, Carl Stibilj.

Thursday, 27 February

Women’s

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Carol Coghill 21 points.

Runner Up: Rhonda Bray 20 points

C/B.

Ball Winners: Jan Hill.

NTPs - 9th: Lois Fitzpatrick.

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Dona Harper 32 points.

Runner Up: Dawn Fleet 21 points.

NTPs - 4th: Ros Gormly.

Friday, 28 February

Medley Competition

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Brian Carr 17 points.

Runner Up: Stephen Smith 16 points C/B.

Ball Winners: Tim Mortimer.

NTPs - 13th: Bobby Hutchieson, 16th: Bobby Hutchieson.

Saturday, 1 March

18 Hole Men’s Stroke Event

Men’s Monthly Medal

A Grade Winner: Beau Wheeler 64 nett. Runner Up: Martin Anania 66 nett.

B Grade Winner: Brenten Polkinghorne 64 nett. Runner Up: Steve Noble 67 nett.

A Grade Medal Winner: Beau Wheeler.

B Grade Medal Winner: Ross Anderson.

Medal of Medals Winner: Martin Anania.

Ball Winners: Kurt Schubert, Trevor Cooper, Denis Hill, John Southwell, Julian Bau, Max Webster, Nat Hirunwiwat, Robert Holloway, Paul Judd, Rod Moyle, Ross Anderson, Jeremy Pope-Mercier, Rodney Godde, Lachy Moore, Seb DeNaopli, Brandon Bowen, Steve Bismire, Robert Fischer, Glen Seymour, Trevor Trimble, Stan Grant, Neil McKinnon, Daymn Hoffard.

NTPs - 4th: Peter Moncrieff, 7th: Darren Burns, 9th: Dan Lacey, 11th: Dion Ploegmakers, 13th: Peter Moncrieff, 16th: Chris Oates.

Birdies: KFC - Trevor Cooper, Julian Bau.

Secret 6: Julian Bau.

Raffle Winner: Geoff Webster. Sunday, 2 March

18 Hole Medley Stableford Winners: James Breen 36 points. Runner Up: Samuel Bakes 35 points.

Ball Winners: Nikole Cunningham.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

RESULTS, Saturday, 1 March.

The members played for the March Monthly Medal which was won by Peter Scoullar 104/33/71; the runner up was Pete Nolan nett 72.

NTPs - 2nd: M.Tanirau award Leo McCoy, 8th: Aroma Deli award Peter Scoullar.

Golf to be played on Saturday, 8 March 2025 will be organised on the day.

It will be an 8.30am roll up for an 9am hit off.

Members are reminded that the opening day is to be held on Saturday, 29 March with an 11.30am hit off, members to bring a plate.

The early starts will continue for the remainder of the warm season until otherwise advised.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club with first

respectively and Christine Blay of Benalla taking out Division 3, with Maureen O’Keefe placing second in that Division.

Andy, Janet and Christine will represent the North East in Melbourne in April.

Play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, with twilight play from 6pm on Wednesday evenings.

Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken. The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.

WANG PICKLEBALL

ROUND 16 results

Section: 1

Josh De Lange 60 – 34, Bryan Wilson 46 – 48, Brad Buss 43 – 51, Phil Densten 39 – 55.

Section: 2

Daryl Smith 60 – 41, Tracy Loyst 52 – 51, Klaus Kazenwadel 50 – 51, Trish Phyland 49 – 46, Noel Boyd 37 – 59.

Section: 3

Tyson Chivers 60 – 38, Scott Bell 51 – 44, Tim Dickinson 47 – 43, Shelley Buss 40 – 51, Michael Reid 34 – 56.

Section: 4

Wilma Hill 59 – 34, Katey Pryor 57 – 39, Ken Gaudion 40 – 46, Georgia McGuffie 37 – 47, Judith Pollard 33 – 60.

Section: 5

Jude Rosenow 60 – 40, Nancy Reid 49 – 51, Jennifer Reid 46 – 54, Erin Matthews 45 – 5.

WARBY WALKERS

year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees - this can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.

Tarra ladies

The Tarra ladies played for a Monthly Medal last Tuesday.

The first Monthly Medal winner for the year was Di McLaughlin.

However, the day’s event became insignificant when the members were told that their dear friend and fellow member Audrey Bradfield had passed away earlier that morning.

The grief-stricken players instantly recalled many of wonderful moments they had had with Audrey.

It was lovely to remember Audrey, who would have turned 90 this month, still playing golf up until the end of last year.

She often won weekly competitions, was in last year’s Medal of Medals playoff and won the competition for the most Birdies in 2024.

It is hard to imagine our Tuesdays without Aud’s bright, cheery presence.

In a short space of time, Tarra golf has lost another hard worker and wonderful member.

We will miss her.

WANG CROQUET

RESULTS for Monday, 3 March are as follows:

Janet Kelly and Bronwyn Townsend d Cheryle Beckley and Margaret Bennett 7/2, Elise Downes and Nathan Reynolds d Joan Dyson and Terry Wilson 7/5, Robyn Muller d Gavan Kelly 6/4.

Monday evening saw eight Wangaratta members attend a social session at Howlong Croquet Club with part of the event played ‘off road, which was sometimes quite hilarious, especially when trying to run hoops that were set up on a slope.

A barbecue followed play and was enjoyed by players and organisers.

Last Friday the Regional Singles Qualifier Tournament was played in Wodonga with Andy Barbero and Janet Kelly of Wangaratta Croquet Club winning Divisions 1 and 2

SUNDAY, March 2, Beechworth Tree Walks.

Four of us met at Mayday Hills in Beechworth to do the three tree walks.

It took about two hours to explore and locate the various numbered trees on each of the walks.

The gardens were planted in the late 19th century with trees and shrubs donated by the Royal Botanical Gardens in Melbourne.

We had lunch at the Hillsborough Cafe then on to Lake Sambell.

Two of us went shopping in Beechworth while the other two walked round Lake Sambell.

We met back at the lake then headed home.

Coming Events

Sunday, 9 March, Havilah - Marita, 0427 521 122.

An easy to medium walk at Havilah, situated between Porepunkah and Rosewhite; the walk itself is in the forest behind Mount Porepunkah (from the direction of Porepunkah).

We’ll walk along an unsealed small country road, which meanders first through farmland on one side, and native bush on the other, then into the bush where the road becomes more of a track.

The entire walk is in the shade of the forest.

The first section of the walk is flat, and then it’s a steady, but gentle uphill walk until we turn around, and walk back down to the start.

The total distance will be 12km, but it can be shortened by turning around earlier.

The ascent and descent is 222m for the full walk, but less if you turn around earlier.

Sunday, 23 March, Mt Buffalo Plateau, Mt Dunn and the MonolithMichael, 0447 617 880.

A medium walk of approximately 13km that visits two of the most striking features of the central Buffalo Plateau.

The walk also includes the eastern banks of Lake Catani, and the option of Echo Point for views over the valley.

League prepping for junior footy season

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE Wangaratta and District Junior Football League (WDJFL) season is set for a start on the weekend of 5 and 6 April.

While the full league xture is still being noodled out and will be released in the next few weeks, WDJFL operations manager Matthew Elliot con rmed round one for the rst weekend in April, a week earlier than last year’s competition.

“We’re making some good progress, I’m hoping I can get it [dra xture] to clubs this week, so we’re looking at

potentially next week when I can get a nal version out,” he said.

“It’s because Easter’s not until late April, and with the ground availability, footy gets access from 1 April.

“I like to always start as soon as possible in that April timeframe, and with Easter being where it is this year, it gives us two rounds in.

“I’ve also got to t it in and nish before a certain time, we nish a week before the O&K and they nish a week before the O&M.

“It all has to fit in that way just to make sure we’ve got grounds and we can do

what we need to do.”

Teams have been working hard during the o season, with 10 under 12 teams, 12 under 14 teams, and 10 under 17 teams set to face o over the course of season 2025.

A month out from the rst bounce, Elliott said participation numbers were extremely promising.

“It’s looking pretty good participation-wise,” he said.

“The rego numbers are really good for this time of year, over 600 at the moment, probably 650 soon.

“I know some Wangaratta teams are looking for more for the under 17s.

“A couple of them are Okay, Kangaroos have got good numbers, Centrals and College are in good shape as well, but Tigers, Junior Magpies and Imperials could certainly use a boost on the player front.

“We’re working through some options with them at the moment to help them eld sides.”

This year marks the introduction of a dedicated under 12 grade in the North East Border Female Football League.

While many junior clubs have female participants, Elliot said he is con dent the

newfemale football grade will not drastically impact established female junior players.

“There are some talented young girls in the area and the rules still permit the girls to play in the boys teams up until the year they turn 14, so they can still get some good competition in there,” he said.

“There have been a few junior clubs in the last couple of years who have noticed a drop o in female participation at their club.

“The introduction of the under 12s gives the option for those girls who might

have been hesitant to participate in a boys’ team.

“There are still plenty who like to do it, but it gives the girls that option if they don’t want to play with the boys, they can play with the girls, and they don’t have to join and under 14s team and play against girls who are two or three years older than them.” Be sure to register for your local WDJFL team if you haven’t already, and keep an eye on the WDJFL Facebook page for the release of the full xture in coming weeks. The 2025 WDJFL season commences on the weekend of 5 and 6 April.

WELL PLAYED: The Monday and Tuesday twilight tennis crews - look carefully to see if you can see the regular players from both competitions.

THE days are shortening and so the ever-popular twilight tennis season at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club has drawn to a conclusion this

week, with every team playing o in the nals round.

The competition is so popular that some players, such as Tim Dickinson laying on the court in

the foreground, like to play in both B and A grade nights.

Both competitions nished this week under lights and a celebratory barbecue.

The organisers, Sean Ablezej and Steve Russell, were once more very pleased with the spirit of good social tennis seen throughout the season. They were also pleased to see

some new younger players this year.

The next season will commence later in the year around October, so the organisers suggest people start planning their team now.

ONE MONTH TO GO: JUNIOR FOOTY IN THE WANGARATTA AND DISTRICT JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE COMMENCES ON THE FIRST WEEKEND OF APRIL. PHOTO: KURT HICKLING

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association

By NATHAN DE VRIES

EVEN though they’ve quali ed for nals, Wangaratta’s A grade cricket squad will treat the next two weekends as if they’re vital.

The Magpies sit second on the ladder heading into thenal round of the home and away season, just 3.80 points ahead of Beechworth Wanderers, and will host Ovens Valley United to round out the regular season.

While the result of the ‘Pies’ match this weekend will have no bearing on their quali cation status for nals, a loss could mean they miss out on a home nal, and have to travel for the cutthroat nals series.

Magpies skipper Cooper Matheson said his side was eager to continue their ne form into the knock-outs.

“You always want to play at home and we enjoy playing at home, so if we win and get the home nal it’s good for us,” he said.

“You’d rather nish second than third or fourth, even though you don’t get a double chance so it doesn’t really matter.

“As long as you nish in the top four you’ve got a chance at winning it.

“We’re looking forward to taking on OVU this weekend.”

The Magpies have been one of the success stories of the competition this season.

A er nishing in the middle of the table with an even win/loss record of seven apiece, and with a largely changed side, Wangaratta have only lost four matches for the season.

“Early on especially, we were batting teams out of games, our batting was winning us games whereas other years we were batting pretty poorly,” Matheson said.

“When we had Prav [Pranav Menon], we were relying on Prav to do the majority of the work, but now everyone’s chipping in every week and we’re putting good totals on, which is good.

“Chook’s [Kyle Winter-Irving] economy is ridiculous, the same with his strike rate and Fraser’s [Ellis] economy.

“Even Jimmy Thewlis for a few games, he’s been bowling with an economy of less than two, and he was doing that in one-day cricket.

“The likes of Gilly [Zac Guilfoyle] just know how to tie down batters.

“We just play boring cricket in the two-dayers with the ball and not let people score and they just lose their wicket.”

Having missed out on a chance

to play nals, Ovens Valley United has nothing to lose from this round’s match-up with the ‘Pies, and it makes them dangerous.

Tigers’ playing coach Geeth Alwis has dominated in his rst season in the competition, leading the batting charts with 677 runs at 75.22 – almost 200 runs more than his nearest rival – and is one wicket behind in the bowling charts, having taken 30 poles at an average of 7.70 and an economy of 2.04.

The Tigers are determined to nish on a high, and will look to mix their young players with established names to try and get the job done at Norm Minns Oval.

“The big one, and everyone knows it, is Geeth with bat and ball,” Matheson said.

“With his bowling, you can’t let him get any wickets but he’ll probably bowl 25 overs for the day.

“Bowling to him, pace o and try to tie him down, try to make him make a mistake.

“Then you’ve got the likes of Cooper Thomason, he’s good with the bat, he made plenty of runs at Country Week and knows how to bat.”

Wangaratta Magpies take on Ovens Valley United this Saturday at Norm Minns Oval, with the rst ball set for 1pm.

THE end of the home and away season for the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association is here.

Rovers United Bruck will travel the hundred or so metres from their clubrooms to the Bill O’Callaghan Oval at the Barr Reserve to face the City Colts in their round 14 clash, commencing this Saturday at 1pm.

The Rovers are locked in at the top of the table, 17.92 points clear of the rest of the pack, and will host their semi- nal.

The Hawks have been the standout team in the competition all year, having only lost one white ball game and one two-dayer all year.

Interestingly ahead ofnals, the only team to defeat them is Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Rovers United Bruck have brought the damage with bat and ball, and there are very few occasions where someone doesn’t stand up and carry the team.

Charith Perera (479 runs @ 36.85) and Jacob Schona nger (289 @ 41.29) lead the way with the bat, while Jeremy Wilson leads the bowlers with 31 wickets for the season at 9.90 and a ridiculous economy rate of 2.29 runs conceded an over.

For their part, the Colts will be looking for a way to end their season on a high.

With a win-loss record of 4-7, the Colts sit one rung above the wooden spoon position

While it’s been far from a runaway success of a season,

Tigers’ clash a tune-up for ‘Pies

Schilling Drive derby to round out cricket season

there have been some exceptional performances from the side.

Josh Newton sits h in the league run scorers’ tally, having belted 334 runs at an average of 41.75 with a century.

Colts tweaker Matt Lister has taken 23 wickets with two ve-wicket hauls, bowing at an average of 14.39 and a miserly economy rate of 2.85.

A win against the top side would show they still have what it takes to be a force in the competition, with their mix of youth and experience holding them in great stead for future seasons.

In other matches, bottomplaced Benalla Bushrangers will host Beechworth Wanderers at the Gardens Oval. Should the Wanderers win and Wangaratta lose over the next two weeks, Beechworth will snare the precious second spot on the ladder and the home semi- nal it affords.

Beechworth hunts as a pack with bat and ball, with their top order batters and strike bowlers causing havoc for opposition teams.

Benalla will be angling for just their second win of the season, with skipper Brayden Stepien the key wicket to take early before he can be allowed to get his brand of big hitting underway.

All matches begin from 1pm this Saturday, 8 March.

FOR THE TAKING: Rovers United Bruck’s Jeremy Wilson will look to secure the A grade bowling award in the last home and away match of the year.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

HEAD TO HEAD: The battle between Wangaratta’s Kyle Winter-Irving and Ovens Valley’s Geeth Alwis is sure to be electrifying this weekend.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

MILAWA FNC TO RECEIVE $320K FOR LIGHTING AND POWER UPGRADES

State grant brings the power to Milawa

THE Demons will bring the power in the coming years a er receiving a grant to upgrade the power infrastructure at their clubrooms.

Milawa Football Netball Club will receive $320,884 from the state government to upgrade lighting to 130 lux LED lighting on the oval including site preparation works, four new poles, a threephase power supply upgrade and lawn restoration works.

Milawa FNC president Steve Williamson said the power and lighting upgrade was well and truly overdue.

“In my whole time there, 15 years, we’ve been needing the power upgrade and lighting upgrade, and it’s nally happened thanks to a few people putting in a fair bit of hard work prior to me getting back on the committee,”

he said.

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

“We’ve only got single-phase at our clubrooms, so on Thursday nights we have to monitor what we’re using because lights draw too much power, then if you put something else on we could trip everything out.

“Same as on game day, there have been a couple of times in the last few years where we’ve blown a fuse and I’ve had to come o the ground mid-game to x it up.

“Our lights are pretty average too, we just lost another light towards the end of last year and we had to replace that, another $2000 to x that up.”

Williamson said the three-

phase power supply upgrade was rst on the to-do list, which will allow other upgrades to take place within the clubrooms.

“The plan is to try and get the three-phase sorted out so at least we get that side of it ready, and then we can do all of our major works a er that,” he said.

“That can allow us to eventually upgrade the kitchen and everything like that, because we haven’t been able to do any upgrades to anything because of our power shortage.

“I don’t think we’ll have lights up this year at this stage during the season.”

The Milawa FNC clubrooms was one of seven facilities across Victoria to share in more than $1.4 million from the latest round of the state government’s Country Football and Netball Program.

READY TO RUN:

Xiriha (right) and Buslin Brody ahead of the 2025 Wangaratta Pacing Cup.

Harness racing set to explode on Sunday

YOUNG reinsman Ben Xiriha is on the hunt for his first country cup victory as he sets sights on both the pacing and trotting features this Sunday night, March 9 at Wangaratta’s Avian Park.

The 22-year-old will take the reins on the Tony Xiriha-trained Sunstar in the Yarrawonga Refrigeration and Airconditioning Wangaratta Pacing Cup, where he will start from barrier six in the 2210-metre event.

“I think he’ll run a really good race,” Xiriha said.

“We’ll look to use his explosive gate speed.”

“Aside from Pitty’s [Mark Pitt] horse [Ivana Bytheseaside], all the main dangers are off the back, and I reckon the smaller track will really suit my bloke.”

Past pacing cup winners include Inter Dominion champion I Cast No Shadow, along with Nerano and Wotdidusaaay.

Following that event is the Reflex Glass/J and T Joinery Wangaratta Trotters Cup, where Xiriha will team up with Buslin Brody from barrier three in the 2210-metre event.

This speedy trotter is also trained by his father, Tony.

“Buslin Brody was really good firstup, had excuses second-up, and thirdup he broke behind the mobile,” Xiriha explained.

The program is a partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria and has invested more than $41.5 million in over 580 country football and netball infrastructure projects since 2005.

It helps local councils replace and upgrade ageing grounds and facilities for football and netball clubs across rural and regional Victoria, because everyone deserves high-quality facilities no matter where they live.

“Footy and netball clubs are the heart and soul of the Hume Region,” Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said.

“This boost will go a long way to helping clubs cater for the growing numbers of people keen to get involved in grassroots sport, providing more opportunities for locals to get active and play the sport they love.”

“But we’ve got him right now, and we’ll look to race on-speed, ideally in front but it’s not the be-all and end-all. He’ll still be there at the business end.”

Standout previous winners of the pacing cup include My High Expectations, Maori Law, Well Defined, and more recently, Sonny Brooke.

Xiriha, who began his driving career in the 2023 season, is yet to break through for his first country cup victory.

“If I was to win the cup, it’d be a great thrill,” he said.

“The cups and bigger races are the next things to tick off on my bucket list.”

In addition to his cup drives, Xiriha will also be partnering with Smilensaycheese and Mac Shadow in earlier races on Sunday night.

The Wangaratta Cup meeting promises to be a fantastic family event, with free entry, takeaway food, an ice cream and coffee van, on-track entertainment featuring DJ Steve Bowen, and face painting. Gates open at 5pm, with the first race at 6.39pm.

■ From back page

“We’re in a bit of a predicament at the moment, but what that should show Wangaratta is that sporting communities and facilities are a major priority to try and keep developing,” he said.

“We need to keep working with the council, show them what we’re missing out on because we don’t have enough courts.

“While we understand the challenges faced by the Rural City of Wangaratta, it is clear investment in indoor sports facilities should be a priority.

“Wangaratta Basketball will continue to work with the rural city and other core providers to help with the planning of more indoor facilities to benefit all Wangaratta sporting groups.

“This is not just about basketball, it’s about supporting the health, wellbeing, and economic vitality of our community.”

▶ AWAY GAMES: WBI president Adam Maher said it was disappointing their tournament had to be hosted in Wodonga, due to a lack of available courts in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Ben

LONG OVERDUE: The lighting and power infrastructure at the Milawa clubrooms has needed an improvement for some time.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

2025FootyTIPPING AFL

Round LEADERBOARD OR

Postponed

Postponed

BRING THE POWER

Milawa Football Netball Club received $320,884 through the state government’s Country Football and Netball Program.

No slam dunk

WANGARATTA Basketball

Inc president Adam Maher is frustrated.

The association will host their third annual under 12 and under 14 junior basketball tournament this weekend, 8-9 March, with juniors from across the region and further a eld set to come together for some exhilarating basketball.

Rural City misses out on economic windfall from basketball

The only problem is the tournament won’t be in Wangaratta, but in Wodonga.

Even with the $12.4m upgrades to the Wangaratta Sport and Aquatics Centre (WSAC), including two new multisport courts and an

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

improved show court, the WBI is unable to host their tournament due to a lack of courts in town.

Maher said the lack of courts was having an impact on basketball and indoor sport in town.

“We had three courts, two undersize and one semi-fullsize court, and we’ve now got four full-size courts, so from a participation space

point of view, we’ve got one more court,” he said.

“In Wangaratta, if we go back a few years, we used to have three courts at the WSAC, one court at Galen, one court at the [Wangaratta] high school, one court at Cathedral, and we used to have Ryan Avenue, so we used to have seven courts in Wangaratta.

“Ryan Avenue no longer has a basketball court, and unfortunately the courts at the other locations like the schools are no longer suitable for playing

representative basketball or we can’t get on there.

“So all of a sudden we’ve got four courts in Wangaratta, so realistically what we have to do is go down to Benalla and across to Myrtleford, or go to Wodonga.

“With the rise of other user groups and sports and how they’re developing, we’ve unfortunately gone backwards in our court availability in general.

“It’s no one to blame, in this situation the council have delivered, but it

gets back to the fact that unfortunately we don’t have enough courts.”

With some 70 teams entered into the weekend tournament, but with it not being in town, local businesses will unfortunately miss out on a lot of potential revenue.

“Local businesses will feel the absence of thousands of visitors who would normally stay, eat, and shop in Wangaratta during the tournament weekend,” Maher said.

“Events like ours are not

tournament

just sporting xtures, they’re community and economic drivers.

“When we had 130odd teams, we did an economic impact study and it was about $2.4m, so it’s anywhere from $1.1m-$1.5m missing this weekend.”

While he said the WBI were grateful for the new facility at WSAC, which has been receiving rave reviews from user groups and guests, Maher said all users had to come together to nd out how to take the next step.

■ Continued page 41

 Story page 41. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries