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ON THE HORIZON

PROJECT 365’s Tim Phillips (le ) and Pete Rourke are looking forward to next month’s Bringing Light to the Dark event, now to be held at Avian Park Raceway in Newman Street.

The latest incarnation of Project 365, the event will be held on Saturday, February 22.

As always, it promises to be an unforgettable evening of music, community and mental health awareness, with this year’s event to feature a magical light show by Goldrush Ballooning.

All proceeds go to support mental health initiatives in the region, including mental health first aid training.

Tickets can be purchased at https://events.humanitix.com/ project-365-wangaratta

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BUYERS are expected to ock to the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange this a ernoon with the rst of two weaner and grown cattle sales.

Wednesday’s sale will bring a yarding of 4200 Angus steers, heifers, grown steers and grown heifers, and this Friday

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

will also see a 1700-strong yarding of coloured cattle including Black Baldy, Hereford, Euro and other breeds - grown and weaner.

Corcoran and Parker livestock agent Reiley Murtagh said these top sales are really putting Wangaratta on the map for prestige weaner sales and it’s going to continue to do so in the future.

Featured cattle with quality bloodlines will be yarded

with top sellers including Rodda Manning of Davilak Pastoral Co of Mans eld to present the largest herd of 750 Angus steers 10-11mths, Glendaloch bld.

DKF Heywood “Glenlock” of Everton has 400 Angus steers, and 300 Angus heifers both 9-10mths, The

Glen, Quarterway & and Glenlock bld on o er.

BEEF BONANZA

4200 Angus cattle to go under the hammer with renowned genetics set to beef up local herds

While KP & MB McPherson of Whorouly will sell 250 of both Angus steers and heifers, 9-10mths, Alpine & Jarobee bld.

Other Angus steers range from 148 Angus steers, Bellaspur, Riga & Lawsons bld

from Tallarook; 80 Fernhill & Cascade bld, Dederang; and 80 Kuuma, Wilgunyah & Muwarra from Mans eld.

Speaking from the yards yesterday a ernoon, Mr Murtagh was buoyed by the cattle’s solid condition and elite quality.

■ Continued page 2

Detox your home this summer

NOW is a great time to clear out sheds, cupboards and under the sink of unwanted household chemicals in preparation for Sustainability Victoria’s Detox your Home event in early February.

Running for more than 30 years, Detox your Home is a free and convenient service for residents to safely dispose of unwanted everyday household chemicals such as weedkiller, pesticides, cleaning chemicals, cosmetics, cooking oil and more.

Detox your Home will be held in the rural city on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from

9am - 12pm at the Council Works Depot, 51-69 Newman Street Wangaratta

Registrations are essential and can be made through www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ detoxyourhome.

Registrations close on February 20, 2025

Chemicals collected at Detox your Home events include:

• Fuels and ammable liquids – turpentine, methylated spirits, petrol, kerosene, diesel, paint thinners.

• Garden – herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, pool chemicals, poisons.

• Household – cleaners,

bleach, ammonia, oven cleaner, solvents, cooking oil, re extinguishers.

• Car – wax, transmission uid, body ller, brake uid.

Common household chemicals do not belong in land ll.

Pouring them down the drain or placing them in kerbside bins pollutes our waterways, harms animals and vegetation.

“Everyone in the community can help keep toxic chemicals out of the environment by registering online and bringing items to the Detox Your Home event,” Sean Ginnivan, rural city waste services coordinator said.

“It’s a free event that bene ts the environment and the community.”

The items are sorted by quali ed chemists and transported to a specialist waste treatment facility where they are either repurposed, recycled or stored in secure landlls.

Chemicals that can be disposed of also include items you can nd around your home labelled Corrosive 8, Oxidizing agent 5.1, Toxic 6.1, Flammable liquid 3, Flammable solid 4.1, and detergents, glues, re extinguishers and more.

for Wednesday’s sale.

4200 Angus cattle to go under

the hammer with renowned genetics set to beef up local herds

AN Everton woman discovered the fine line between losing her driver’s licence for excessive speeding as she was given a three-month driving suspension this week. Representing herself at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, the court heard the defendant’s vehicle was caught travelling towards Tarrawingee on the Great Alpine Road at 125km/h in a 100km/h speed zone by police on August 8 last year.

The green P-plater was intercepted and given a suspension and $543 fine notice.

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Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

ADDRESS:

Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES: 5723 0100

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: 5723 0101

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: 5723 0139

Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Website: wangarattachronicle.com.au

■ From page 1

“Cattle are looking outstanding and Deepdale just rolled in, and they have 250 that are looking very good,” he said.

“A portion of Davilak have come in and they are in excellent buying condition and they’re good, well framed steers for someone to take on.

“All the cattle are looking exceptional, and the line-up is going to be phenomenal with 4200 head and there will be a

great number of buying power from the northern and southern parts.”

All the producers aim for these sales year-in, year-out and Mr Murtagh said they do it to an exceptionally good quality each year.

“We’re going to have repeat buyers who are here every time to operate on some of the best calves from our area and beyond,” he said.

“It is de nitely more about

genetics and what you’re putting down the throat and a lot of these cattle are backed by bigger named studs and even people with smaller named studs have exceptional cattle because they are doing the right things with them.”

Both Wednesday’s and Friday’s sales commence a er 2pm at the exchange, Shanley Street, Wangaratta (a er Wodonga sale), with selling agents Corcoran and Parker, and Elders.

Grant to assist kinder with outdoor play

By SIMONE KERWIN

CHILDREN at Wangaratta West Kindergarten will be well-prepared for wet weather play this year.

The kinder plans to use a $6000 State Government bush kinder grant to update its existing wet weather gear collection, including raincoats, boots and pants, to enable children to continue exploring the outdoors even in the cooler months.

An all-weather service, Wangaratta West was among 600 kinder services across Victoria to receive

funding for bush kinder programs, which build on ndings that regular outdoor play delivers signicant bene ts for a child’s learning and development, including their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

“We all want the best for our kids, and teaching them about the great outdoors is good for their wellbeing, physical development and connection to nature,” Minister for Children, Lizzie Blandthorn said. Wangaratta West Kindergarten plans to purchase the items locally from Bright-based Minimuds.

In a letter submitted to court, the defendant showed “deep remorse” for her actions and pleaded to keep her licence, needing to regularly travel for everyday work on a farm.

In Victoria, excessive speeding of more than 25km/h-34km/h comes with a mandatory threemonth licence suspension.

“Had you been going 124km/h, we wouldn’t be having this conversation,” Magistrate Ian Watkins said.

He imposed the threemonth licence suspension and placed her on a threemonth good behaviour bond, redacting the $543 fine.

“There’s a significant

1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

QUALITY: Angus cattle being loaded o the truck into the Wangaratta Saleyards on Tuesday a ernoon ready

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

TIME TO CLEAN OUT: Detox your Home is a free and convenient service for residents to safely dispose of unwanted everyday household chemicals.

Digital hub offers tech support before closure

By SIMONE KERWIN

WANGARATTA Digital

Hub will continue to provide tech support for the remainder of January, prior to its closure at the end of the month.

The Rural City of Wangaratta - which had been overseeing the hub - announced in November that the facility would close at the end of January.

The hub had been funded over the past two years by a $170,000 grant from the State Government’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR) and a $50,000 contribution from council, which led the project aimed at developing a sustainable model for delivering digital assistance and programs to the community.

However, the ongoing funding required to keep the hub operating could not be secured, leading to the decision to close its doors.

A council spokesperson said in November that knowledge gained through the project would guide future initiatives addressing digital inclusion and digital upskilling programs across the rural city and Victoria.

A Facebook post from

As the hub closes its doors, we remain proud of what we have achieved together and optimistic that the lessons learned will inform future digital initiatives across Victoria. -

A BITE to eat while driving along WangarattaBeechworth Road may have cost a Yarraville man a six-month licence suspension, a court has heard.

Appearing at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, the court heard the 40-year-old was caught near Everton Upper travelling at 116km/h in a 100km/h speed zone on August 16 last year.

When asked by police why he was speeding the defendant said he was “actually eating”.

Wangaratta Digital Hub team

the Wangaratta Digital Hub team on January 1 said the facility had been a valued resource for the community, “fostering digital inclusion and building the digital skills of hundreds of individuals”, and thanked DJSIR for its funding, and the Rural City of Wangaratta for its nancial and sta ng contributions during the -

nal stage of the project.

“Finally, we express our immense gratitude to the Wangaratta community,” the post reads.

“Your engagement, enthusiasm, and trust in the hub have been the driving force behind our e orts.

“It has been our privilege to work with you and to contribute to the region’s digital

Girl, man remain hospitalised following Lake Mulwala crash

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

POLICE are investigating the cause of a crash on Lake Mulwala on Sunday morning which saw three people, including two youths, hospitalised.

A NSW Police spokesperson said emergency services were called to the incident around 11:30am, when o cers were told a boat towing a ski biscuit came around a bend and the in atable crashed into a stationary shing boat.

Paramedics responded

to the incident and treated a 34-year-old man, 10-yearold girl and an eight-yearold boy.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said the girl and the 34-year-old man were airli ed to the Royal Children’s Hospital and The Alfred Hospital respectively in a serious but stable condition.

The girl sustained upper and lower body injuries, and the man was treated with lower body injuries.

The eight-year-old boy was transported to Wangaratta Hospital in a stable

condition, with upper body injuries.

As of 10am Tuesday, a Royal Children’s Hospital spokesperson con rmed the 10-year-old remained in hospital in a stable condition while an Alfred Hospital spokesperson said the 34-year-old remained in a serious but stable condition.

The police spokesperson said Victorian Police will conduct further enquiries with the skipper of the towing boat and the skipper of the shing boat.

growth and inclusion.

“As the hub closes its doors, we remain proud of what we have achieved together and optimistic that the lessons learned will inform future digital initiatives across Victoria.”

The hub will continue to open each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in January from 9am to

5pm for tech support, with locals encouraged to book a space online at https:// www.wangarattadigitalhub. com.au/

Anyone seeking digital support beyond January 30 can visit wangaratta.vic. gov.au/digital-support to nd local organisations and businesses which can assist.

Representing himself at court, the man said the three demerit points issued following the incident triggered a six-month licence suspension due to an accumulation of points.

The defendant said he feared the suspension would impact his mental health and threaten personal safety travelling into Melbourne’s CBD regularly for work.

Magistrate Ian Watkins said the suspension could not be appealed in court and he could only appeal separate incidents through VicRoads.

The suspension was upheld and the defendant was fined $395 for the incident.

CLOSING SOON: Wangaratta Digital Hub will close its doors at the end of January.

July

Monday, July 1

Challenger named

FORMER Indigo Shire mayor James Trenery will represent the Liberal Party to contest Indi MP Helen Haines at the next federal election.

Local Liberal Party members gathered at Benalla’s Lakeside Community Centre on Saturday where Mr Trenery defeated former logging industry stalwart and current finance broker Michael McKinnell and logistics specialist Travis Vincent in a party preselection.

Wednesday, July 3

Blueprint for health

A COMMUNITY-designed plan to enhance connection and inclusion in Wangaratta has been developed by the city’s Grit and Resilience Program.

The ‘Blueprint’ is the work of the program’s consortium, which comprises eight community members and representatives from The Centre, Gateway Health, headspace, Albury Wodonga Health and King Valley Learning Exchange.

Friday, July 5

No easy puff

LOCAL pharmacists remain concerned over new legislation introduced by the Federal Government on July 1 that has fundamentally changed the accessibility of vapes.

As of Monday this week, the sale, supply, manufacture, importation, and commercial possession of nontherapeutic vapes is illegal.

Monday, July 8

Green light for social housing

WANGARATTA’S social and affordable housing stocks are set to be further boosted after a proposed 10-unit development costing $3.5 million at Garnet Avenue’s former Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps site was given the green light by council.

Rural City of Wangaratta councillors endorsed officers’ recommendation to grant a planning permit for the proposed buildings and works at 13-17 Garnet Avenue, subject to 26 conditions, including work commencing within two years.

year in review

plastic free july

Wednesday, July 10

Meredith’s sparkle amid cancer battle

A LOCAL breast cancer patient is looking to add some sparkle and smiles to those going through breast cancer care.

Meredith Prentice has been receiving treatment for breast cancer since diagnosed late last year.

Friday, July 12

Home help

THE Ovens and Murray region has been announced as one of eight beneficiaries of incoming State Government emergency housing support.

Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing, announced on Thursday that Junction Support Services in Wangaratta and Wodonga would be one of the support agencies chosen to deliver a $48 million investment to the new Homes First program.

Monday, July 15

Such a tragedy

A WANGARATTA man has pleaded guilty to causing the deaths of his brother and cousin while driving at excessive speeds under the influence on Greta Road in Wangaratta last year.

The 25-year-old appeared at Melbourne County Court on Friday to formally plead guilty to two counts of culpable driving causing death stemming from the April 9, 2023 crash.

Wednesday, July 17

Jazz revival

TICKETS go on sale today for the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, which will be held from Friday, November 1 to Monday, November 4.

Following a ‘Last Hurrah’ event held last year, the event has been ‘reimagined’ by a new festival board and its artistic director Serge Carnovale.

Friday, July 19

Jobs lost

WANGARATTA’S Merriwa Industries is looking to bounce back after having 23 full-time positions become redundant in recent months, off the back of a reduction in consumer demand due to high cost of living pressures.

Back to School

 SNAGGING AWARDS: Your Everyday Gourmet’s Sean Hourigan, Melissa Grimshaw and Karl Capelja are celebrating their gold and silver awards for their respective lamb, mint jelly and fetta snags, and traditional English pork snags at the Sausage King regional awards.

Merriwa announced 13 redundant positions across its timbers and packaging divisions, due to a drop in sales, the result of a downturn in the economy.

Monday, July 22

Childcare wait times

stretched in Wangaratta

PARENTS in Wangaratta are experiencing up to two-year wait times for childcare, a problem the MP for Indi Helen Haines wants to help fix.

Dr Haines met with advocacy group The Parenthood in Wangaratta last week and they are formulating a study right across Australia on people’s experiences in accessing childcare in country areas.

Wednesday, July 24

Safety calls

WANGARATTA’S Grit and Resilience Consortium is backing calls for more measures to help improve the safety of social media platforms for young people, including verification of mental health information and limiting infinite scroll features.

It has thrown its support behind leading mental health organisations ReachOut, Beyond Blue and Black Dog Institute, who have made a joint submission to the Joint Select Committee on Social Media and Australian Society, seeking policies that compel social media platforms to work according to safety-by-design principles, transparency and user control when it comes to algorithms, verification of health content on platforms and funding for more research into the links between social media and mental health.

Monday, July 29

On with the show

PLANS are in motion for this year’s Wangaratta Show, with organisers hoping crowds will be similar to last year’s strong attendance of about 8000 across the two days.

The annual event will be held on Friday and Saturday, October 11 and 12 at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, and Wangaratta Agricultural Society secretary Charmane Bennett said a host of entertainment was being curated to suit all tastes.

Wednesday, July 31

Growth plan

RESIDENTS and local businesses have until Friday to submit their thoughts on the Rural City of Wangaratta’s economic development and tourism strategy, as its consultation period draws to a close.

Described as “more than just a vision…a collective commitment to shaping the bright future of our region”, the draft strategy was developed through a series of individual consultations, community workshops and an online survey designed to attract community and business feedback.

August

Friday, August 2

Another life?

THE former Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre on Murphy Street might be given a new lease of life after council confirmed this week it will seek commercial expressions of interest for tenants of the historic building.

Located at 100-104 Murphy Street, the building constructed in 1909 is owned by the State Government and council is the delegated committee of management to look after the asset.

Wednesday, August 7

Pay it forward

LOCAL businesses are getting on board to ‘Pay It Forward’ for National Homelessness Week.

Cafés involved in the “Step Up for Homelessness - Pay It Forward” campaign will be collecting donations from the public which will in turn be distributed to local people doing it tough who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Friday, August 9

A $3.6m sewer fix for homes in south

LAND to accommodate 650 residential lots in South Wangaratta will soon open up new housing, thanks to $3.6 million in sewer infrastructure currently being installed.

It’s a major step forward to overcome sewer capacity restrictions in Wangaratta that have stifled developers’ housing plans over the last few years.

Monday, August 12

Health

reform

NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) will join a mega health network under the Hume region as a part of five Local Health Service networks for the state’s 76 services as a part of a major overhaul.

Friday, July 26

Alarming rise

REGIONAL Victorian students are struggling to keep engaged in the classroom, with new data revealing a concerning increase in rates of student absenteeism across the state.

Monday, August 5

Homelessness hits 600 in city

The Hume network will stretch from Kyabram to Yea and will include Shepparton’s Goulburn Valley Health, Alpine Health, Beechworth Health Service, Benalla Health, Corryong Health, Albury-Wodonga Health, Tallangatta Health Service and Yarrawonga Health.

Wednesday, August 14

Too big a gamble

Department of Education data has confirmed 354,549 days of school were missed by year seven students in regional Victorian Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 2023, with an increase of 33.6 per cent compared to 2019 (pre-COVID).

MORE than 600 people were experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless across Wangaratta in 2023-2024, according to data released by Beyond Housing.

The data shows that of the 648 people seeking homelessness support, 45 were children, 98 were aged 55 and over, 116 were on a Disability Support Pension, and 162 were young people aged between 17 and 25.

WANGARATTA-based Independent federal MP for Indi, Helen Haines, is among the signatories of an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton which calls for a ban on gambling ads.

With the Federal Government expected to respond this week to a 2022 parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, which was chaired by late MP Peta Murphy and recommended phasing out gambling advertising over three years, the letter signed by 74 prominent Australians supports this concept, and calls on the nation’s leaders to “please act now”.

 PLASTIC FREE FUN: Clean Up Wangaratta’s (from left) Judy Lowen, Julie Sands, Linda White, Rae Quigley and Andy Kimber are taking part in the global awareness month Plastic Free July across the rural city this month. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

 PROUD P-PLATERS: Wangaratta’s nesay tac L2P program is helping learner drivers clock up their 120 hours behind the wheel in order to gain their probationary driver’s licence. Recent graduates include Allira Brookes (20),

Friday, August 16

Regional plea

INDI Independent MP Helen Haines is continuing her push in parliament for a dedicated regional housing fund to assist in critical infrastructure to unlock housing builds such as a proposed 200-plus affordable, social and key worker housing development in Wangaratta.

Earlier this year Dr Haines pitched the Wangaratta housing project to Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, requesting $10 million to help make the $50m project a reality.

Monday, August 19

Justice served for fatal parole failure

THE family of murdered Whorouly woman Karen Chetcuti has successfully made a claim against the State of Victoria for negligence because the perpetrator, now serving a life sentence without parole, was released on bail at the time he committed the crime.

Ms Chetcuti, 49, was murdered on January 12, 2016 by neighbour Michael Cardamone, who was serving a period of parole for the 2005 rape of a 15-yearold girl.

Wednesday, August 21

Tragic crash

A WANGARATTA man has been sentenced to almost nine years jail following a tragic crash at Wangaratta which claimed the life of his younger brother and cousin last year.

Rory Teiffel, 25, appeared at a Melbourne County Court on Monday to hear his sentence over a fatal crash which took the lives of his younger brother Denver, 16, and cousin, Ryan Suggate, 25, on April 9.

Friday, August 23

Ticking along

TICKETS are selling steadily for the rejuvenated Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, as organisers see the result of their efforts to ensure the continuation of the event.

The festival’s artistic director, Serge Carnovale, was in the rural city this week to meet with fellow organisers and local businesses in the lead-up to the venuebased event, which will be held from November 1 to 4.

L2P program

Monday, August 26

Losses $10M+

ELECTRONIC gaming machine (EGM) losses in the Rural City of Wangaratta eased last financial year but they still exceeded $10.5 million and trends over the last six months have shown increased spending.

 NEW CHAPTER: Tyrell Harrison puts up a shot for the Brisbane Bullets in front of the sold-out Wangaratta crowd at the sports and aquatic centre’s inaugural match on its new show case court.

Wednesday, September 4

Jobs leave city

EIGHTEEN State Government department jobs are set to be relocated from Wangaratta.

Figures from the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission show that $10,559,115 was spent on EGMs in Wangaratta in 2023/24, down $315,000 on the previous year’s figure of $10,874,190.

Wednesday, August 28

Mini-tornado reaps havoc at elderly couple’s home

MASSIVE trees on a Warby Range Road property were uprooted and tossed through the air like twigs during a tornado-type weather event at the height of Sunday’s storms across the state.

Peter and Janette Murphy sat terrified in the dark after the power went out when the storm hit, the sound of the wind deafening, its rage measured by the barrage of falling limbs as they struck the roof of their home and trees toppled all around them.

Friday, August 30

Family tragedy

WANGARATTA and the wider community have rallied in recent weeks following a tragedy on the roads in Queensland.

Mitch Kilner, 28, had his life cut tragically short following a collision near Mount Marlow in the Whitsundays region of Queensland.

September

Monday, September 2

Building for future

REDEVELOPMENT works valued at $14 million at Ryley Street’s St Catherine’s aged care facility are on track to be completed by December next year.

“At the moment, the front of the building, including the administration area and ground floor nurses’ station, and a first level large room/office and hairdressing space, have all been demolished,” St Catherine’s chief executive officer Adrian Johnstone said.

Back to School

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action has confirmed that it will withdraw its presence in the rural city over coming months, with staff to be relocated to offices elsewhere in the region.

Friday, September 6

Call to action

MEN committed to creating a safer and more respectful community are being invited to attend a groundbreaking event in Wangaratta.

This event is a call to action, a time where men can unite to end violence and shape future generations of respectful men according to Jaime Chubb, CEO of the Centre Against Violence (CAV) in Wangaratta.

Monday, September 9

Endangered species found near proposed solar farm site

AN endangered frog species has been found near the site of the proposed 330MW solar facility at Meadow Creek and will be a hot topic of discussion in Canberra this week.

Proponents of the Meadow Creek Solar Farm have conducted an environmental assessment of the proposed site and have submitted an Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act referral to the government, which highlighted a presence of the endangered Sloane’s froglet (Crinia sloanei) in the area.

Wednesday, September 11

Challenging fire season this summer

WANGARATTA and district looks like facing one of the most challenging summers the region has seen for a number of years following an unseasonably dry and warm winter, the CFA has warned.

Friday, September 13

Night crimes

WANGARATTA police are investigating a spree of attempted breakins across Wangaratta’s CBD and West End this past week.

In the week to September 12, four local businesses reported damage to the front of their stores from attempted burglaries overnight.

Monday, September 16

Gang-gang cockatoo, Bandy-bandy snake added to list

A COMMUNITY group against the proposed 330MW Meadow Creek Solar Farm will object to the facility under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Following a trip to Canberra on Thursday, members of the Meadow Creek Agricultural and Action Group (MCAAG) have been given some hope in trying to stop the facility being approved following the State Government’s fast-tracking of renewable energy facilities in Victoria.

Wednesday, September 18

Despicable act

A WANGARATTA man has been left devastated after he was robbed of all of his belongings at his Tarrawingee campsite on Friday morning.

Cameron Eames had been homeless for four months and living along the Ovens River off River Road, Tarrawingee.

Friday, September 20

Wards could water down talent: Grant

THE new ward structure for the Rural City of Wangaratta is likely to knock out quality candidates vying for one position for their ward on council, according to elected candidate Irene Grant.

calls for a change in direction when it comes to NECMA’s approach to the management of priority waterways like the King River, before irreparable damage is done.

Ken Gaudion, who has extensive knowledge of local waterways through his involvement with NECMA and other water management committees, said much has changed since the catchment authorities came into being in 1997.

Wednesday, September 25

Protecting our kids

LOCAL educators hope planned legislation around social media age limits will send an important message to the global companies running platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

The Federal Government has promised to introduce legislation by the end of this year aimed at imposing a minimum age for use of social media apps; work is still to be undertaken on age verification technology before an entry age is set.

Friday, September 27

Mass job cuts at GOTAFE STAFF across GOTAFE campuses, including Wangaratta, are reeling with an estimated 70 jobs to potentially go, as part of 90 non-teaching positions impacted under a major restructure of the tertiary education provider.

Following enquiries from this masthead, a Victorian Government spokesperson confirmed that GOTAFE staff were told about the restructure yesterday and it was the result of a careful consultation process that began in July and it was a decision of the GOTAFE board and management.

Monday, September 30

Focus on crime

Incumbent Cr Grant was elected unopposed for the Warby Ward and will form one of the first two spots on council, alongside fellow councillor Harry Bussell who was also the only candidate, in the King River Ward, when nominations closed on Tuesday.

The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring released last week by the Australian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, forecast a warmer than average season with an average rainfall outlook for the region.

Monday, September 23 Call to action

THE inaugural chair of the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) has added his voice to

WANGARATTA and Wodonga police are jointly starting a new initiative to help combat crime, amid the latest stats showing an overall crime rise of 5.3 per cent in Wangaratta and 17 per cent in Wodonga. The Crime Reduction Team (CRT) aims to target a handful or high offenders across Wodonga and Wangaratta through encouraging them to engage with support services like Orange Door.

 October, November and December Year In Review in Friday, January 10 edition

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Taylor Marshall (19) and Sarah Werert (18).

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Be safe around inland and coastal waters

AN incident at Lake Mulwala at the weekend is a timely reminder that water safety is key when navigating coastal or inland waterways.

Inland lakes and rivers are popular at this time of year and many locals are still enjoying their favourite holiday spots on the coast.

As of yesterday afternoon, seven people have drowned across the state this summer and there were 134 lives lost from drowning in Australia last year.

There are several beaches that are notorious for drownings in Victoria, and it’s recommended to swim at Lifesaving Victoria patrolled beaches, between the red and yellow flags.

Know your swimming abilities, swim with a buddy, and choose a body of water that is suitable.

Always supervise children around water as this is the single most important thing you can do.

Children can wander away unnoticed while parents attend to other tasks.

Avoid alcohol around water as this can significantly increase the risk of drowning.

Alcohol reduces coordination and can impair a person’s judgement and reaction time, reducing inhibition and distorting the perception of risk.

Wear a lifejacket when boating as accidents do happen.

A key message is for recreational water users to watch out for what lies beneath including submerged logs in rivers and also rips in the ocean.

It’s ill-advised to jump into lakes, rivers and the ocean as debris and sandbars can shift underwater, causing a hazards.

Rips, unpredictable currents, and swiftly changing local conditions are all often well-known to locals, but harder to spot by visitors.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Australian Quiz

1

Which country shares the longest border with Norway?

(a) Sweden

(b) Finland

(c) Russia

(d) Denmark

2

Edrick Lee started his NRL career with which team in 2012?

(a) Brisbane Broncos

(b) Canberra Raiders

(c) Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks

(d) Newcastle Knights

3 In 2022, who won the Silver Logie for Most Popular Actor?

(a) Guy Pearce (b) Hugo Weaving

8 (d) James 9 (a) Joji 10 (b) Teller

Council praised for community events

(c) Rodger Corser

(d) Richard Roxburgh

4 Angelo Siciliano was better known by what name?

(a) Gorgeous George

(b) Charles Atlas

(c) Sugar Ray Robinson

(d) Rich Piana

5

What is the E number for the food additive, monosodium glutamate?

(a) E155

(b) E444

(c) E621

(d) E542

6

Which country won the most gold medals at

A LETTER of thanks and appreciation to the Rural City of Wangaratta Council for the great New Year’s Eve family evening they organised at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

It was a perfect evening weather wise and the entertainment was just amazing.

Also thanks again for the free swimming days at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

No brickbats this time - just thanks! Colleen Jackel, Wangaratta

New record for EV sales in Australia

NEW electric vehicle sales in Australia reached an all-time high in 2024, underscoring the sustained demand for cleaner, modern, cost-e ective cars.

Data from the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) and public sources reveal that about 114,000 new battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) were sold in Australia in 2024, up on the previous record of more than 98,000 sales in 2023.

New EV sales in 2024 include approximately 91,000 BEVs and about 23,000 PHEVs.

It means nearly one in 10 new car sales were EVs (9.65 per cent).

Year a er year, electric vehicle sales in Australia continue to climb, proving that demand for cleaner, more a ordable driving is here and it’s rising.

It’s not just Australians’ desire to purchase an EV that’s driving the rise in sales - the increase in charging infrastructure, wider range of models at more competitive prices, and the continuation of key purchase incentives have all played a crucial role in encouraging the next wave of EV owners to buy.

Despite the progress, Australia still has a long way to go to achieve its climate and EV targets, and match adoption rates of other developed nations.

The introduction of the New Vehicle Efciency Standard this year is a promising step forward, but accelerating momentum will also require increased investment in infrastructure, more incentives, updated regulations, nationally consistent policies, and proactive e orts to combat misinformation.

Aman Gaur, Electric Vehicle Council head of policy, legal and advocacy

the 2022 World Aquatics Championships?

(a) China

(b) United States

(c) Australia (d) Italy

7 On the flag of Mexico, the national coat of arms appears on what colour background?

(a) Red (b) Green (c) White (d) Yellow (gold)

8

What is the first name of Harry Potter’s father in the Harry Potter novels?

(a) Gerald

(b) Stewart (c) Walter (d) James

9 In 2022, who had a hit with the song, Glimpse of Us?

(a) Joji (b) Harry Styles

(c) Jack Harlow (d) The Kid Laroi

10 One of the most famous paintings by Caravaggio is titled, ‘The Fortune’ what? (a) Game (b) Teller (c) Inn (d) Men

2025, harvesting this monster tomato from her garden. At 1.25kg, it’s the biggest tomato Assunta has ever grown, with her previous largest topping the scales at 800g to 900g. She said her secret was using lots of manure on the garden and watering every day. The mammoth tomato will be used for Assunta’s tasty sauce.

Help defeat nation’s most common cancer

IN 2025, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is urging workplaces across the nation to unite in the ght against prostate cancer by joining the PCFA-Team.

Prostate cancer has become Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer, with one in ve men likely to be diagnosed in their lifetime.

Every 20 minutes one of our fathers, sons, friends, or loved ones will hear the news they have prostate cancer.

Tragically, 11 Australian men lose their lives to the disease every day.

These gures underscore the urgent need for action.

Through workplace engagement and fundraising, Australian organisations have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in creating a future free from prostate cancer deaths.

Thanks to community-driven fundraising, PCFA has invested $70 million into groundbreaking research, funds the work of 110 specialist prostate cancer nurses, and delivers essential support programs to two in three men newly diagnosed with the disease.

The PCFA-Team initiative invites workplaces to host fundraising events or create memorial pages to honor loved ones impacted by prostate cancer.

You can register your own fundraiser now at

fundraise.pcfa.org.au.

Through workplace contributions, PCFA can continue funding vital research and education initiatives, provide survivorship kits to men and families, and connect patients with lifechanging support.

While signi cant strides have been made in the ght against prostate cancer, the journey is far from over.

The disease still claims nearly 4000 Australian lives each year, and PCFA’s goal of zero deaths within a generation will require ongoing commitment from all sectors of society.

For more information or to speak with PCFA representatives, contact PCFA at 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.pcfa.org.au.

Anne Savage, PCFA CEO

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

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

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

Emergency influx over holidays

Northeast Health Wangaratta ED feels the heat

By STEVE KELLY

WANGARATTA’S public hospital posted an alert to social media that the emergency department was experiencing high demand on Sunday, encouraging the community to connect with the state’s online emergency department service for all nonurgent treatment.

The post read: “In the case of a medical emergency, don’t delay treatment - call 000 or present to our emergency department”.

“If you require nonurgent medical assistance, you can connect with the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department,” it read.

“Their team of nurses, nurse practitioners and doctors can provide medical assistance without needing to leave your home.

“For further information

or to access this service visit www.vved.org.au

“You can also contact Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or your GP.”

A Northeast Health Wangaratta spokesperson said they saw typically higher numbers for a holiday period present to the ED over the Christmas and New Year period.

“A number of these patients required admission to hospital,” she said.

“O en, patients require a longer time in ED prior to transfer to the ward and this can add to the usual business of an ED.

“We are committed to providing the best care possible, even during busy times.

“We are appreciative of our community’s support during periods of high demand and remind residents that non-urgent medical

assistance can be accessed through Victorian Virtual Emergency Department at www.vved.org.au during these times.”

Meanwhile, temperatures in Wangaratta on Saturday and Sunday were 38.8C and 39.8C respectively, with heatwave warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Rural City of Wangaratta encourages people to take necessary precautions during times of extreme heat.

Residents are urged to stay cool and remain hydrated and to check on vulnerable people during heatwave events.

These include those 65 years and over and children under ve, pregnant or nursing mothers, people with disabilities or preexisting medical conditions, or those living alone with little social contact.

Wet weather nice reprieve after hot weekend

By JORDAN DUURSMA

MONDAY’S wet weather was a welcome reprieve for the Rural City of Wangaratta following its hottest weekend in almost four years.

The city’s first rainfall of 2025 saw 11.2mm recorded by the Bureau of Meteorology’s weather station at Wangaratta airport.

According to the bureau, the city’s maximum temperature on Saturday was 38.8 degrees at 4.36pm, and Sunday reached a maximum

temperature of 39.8 degrees at 3.40pm.

Not since January 24 and 25 of 2021 has the city had two consecutive days of such heat, with 39.4 degrees and 41.4 degrees and before that in 2018 when maximum temperatures of 41.2 degrees were recorded on both January 6 and 7.

For the rest of the week in Wangaratta, the bureau has forecast maximum temperatures in the early to mid 30s and minimum temperatures in the teens, with possible showers over the weekend.

SPLISH, SPLASH: Henry Duursma (4) took advantage of the wet weather on Monday, spending the a ernoon splashing in puddles at Apex Park.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am. Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.

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

All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else‘s drinking, this group may be for you.

Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828, or phone 1300 252 666.

PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am. Those who are able meet at the main entrance at 9.30am for a 30-minute river walk prior to coffee. Contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.

CYCLING Without Age

Wangaratta offers free tri–shaw rides to the elderly, and to people of any age with disabilities or reduced mobility.

Phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club activities will recommence on Monday, January 13 with carpet bowls from 1pm in the clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street.

VETERAN and family morning tea is held at the Wangaratta RSL on the second Tuesday of each month.

The group’s next catch-up is on Tuesday, January 14 from 10am to 11.30am.

All current and ex-servicing personnel and families are welcome. For further information contact 0447 217 768.

WANGARATTA Old Time/New Vogue Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street.

Admission is $10, please bring a plate of supper to share. Entry also includes raffle ticket and lucky door prize.

Phone 0431 190 630 for more information.

WANGARATTA Newcomers will hold its next get-together at Intermezzo Café on Thursday, February 6 from 2pm to 3.30pmjoin the group for a cuppa, a chat and to meet some new people. For more information, phone Susan on 0412 497 183, Joy on 0401 843 815 or Ann on 0435 275 864.

WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club will start back after the holiday break on Monday, February 3.

CENTRE Quilters Circle, which meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, will take a break for January, returning on February 13. New members welcome, current members are willing to share their expertise and skills. BYO lunch. Contact Wendy on 5722 4415 or Leonie on 0403 226 129.

WANGARATTA Orchid Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6.30pm in St Patrick’s supper room, off Ford Street. Meetings include flower shows and talks, and everyone is welcome. Phone Hans on 0428 119 737.

OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta. The group will be back on February 4.

New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.

WANGARATTA Toastmasters meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street. The group will take a break over the festive period, returning on February 12.

For more information, contact Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm

SOCIAL CALENDAR

to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral, with a break over the festive season until February 5.

All welcome. For details, call Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.

WANGARATTA table tennis weekly social competition is held on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon at the Wangaratta Showgrounds table tennis pavilion.

All ages and abilities welcome, bats and balls provided, $2 entry. Contact Maxine Miller on 0403 209 857.

WANG Ukes meets on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Masonic Lodge in Appin Street. The group will break until February 28.

All abilities welcome, phone 0407 311 899 for more information.

WANGARATTA Artists Society Inc provides a supportive environment for local artists to work on their projects, welcoming beginners to experienced individuals.

It hosts workshops led by experienced artists in various mediums throughout the year, and the studio is equipped to cater to artists and their artistic endeavours.

For more information, contact Robyn on 0412 291 066.

WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if noone is present). The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 5pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. Contact Bevan on 0437 196 118.

Raceway Band Room in Newman Street.

New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of each month from 9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street. The group will break for Christmas/New Year, and return on February 1. Beginner and experienced members welcome. Contact Frances on 0417 158 220.

WANGARATTA Family History Society opens each Thursday from 10am to 3pm in the local history room at the Wangaratta Library. Outside of these hours, assistance is available by appointment only by emailing wangfamhs@gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.

COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue.

Equipment and instruction provided. Phone Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.

WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue.

Email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Wendie 0408 495065.

PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. The group will start up again on January 21.

Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. Enquiries to 0407 311 899.

WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park

GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start. The group is currently on a holiday break, and will return on January 15.

The competition runs until 3.30pm-4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. New players welcome. Phone Frank on 0409 662 462.

LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. The group returns to action on February 4.

Phone 0418 574 404 for more information about this noncontact game of netball.

THE North Eastern branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria meets every fourth Tuesday at the Masonic Lodge in Appin St, Wangaratta. The group will break for December and return on January 28.

Beginners and experienced embroiderers welcome from 9.30am. Contact Jen on 0407 560562.

TRY croquet at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park on Sunday mornings, Tuesday mornings and Thursday mornings. Equipment supplied, contact Anne on 0490 173 169.

BLOKES Time Out conducts regular gatherings and activities on the third Saturday of the month. For details, visit gritandresilience@wangaratta.vic. gov.au

TOPS weight supporting group meets at The Centre each Monday from 5pm to 6pm.

Encouragement and company to support locals in managing their weight. Phone 0458 374 261.

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

Bail denied for “obsessive” breaches of intervention order

A WANGARATTA man has been remanded in custody just three weeks a er being released for persistent breaches of intervention and bail orders.

The 28-year-old slouched with his head in his hands as he was denied release by Magistrate Ian Watkins in the custody box of the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

It was the Wangaratta man’s second bail application in three weeks a er he was granted release on December 16 to Macedon to live with his brother following several alleged breaches of an intervention order between an ex-partner.

The alleged breaches occurred between April and December last year, as he

allegedly “bombarded” the victim in attempts to contact them.

The court heard in December the defendant had allegedly grabbed the victim by the throat and pushed her onto the wall of his Wangaratta home and allegedly injured her puppy in a separate incident.

Detailing the alleged latest breach to the court on Monday, informant Senior Constable Zachary Angell said the victim and defendant met each other at Bunnings Warehouse Wangaratta on December 28, 2024, and went back to the defendant’s home, with the victim leaving her phone and car behind so she allegedly “wouldn’t be tracked” by police.

The court heard the pair would make numerous alleged contacts by payphone over the following days, and the defendant visited the victim at her campsite in Tocumwal on January 3 and allegedly stayed the night.

Sen Const Angell said he and two other police members located the pair together at the defendant’s home the next day, where he was arrested.

The court heard the pair allegedly used discrete communication methods including UHF radios and changing their status in their “about me” section of their pro les on LinkedIn to communicate with each other in order to allegedly avoid police detection.

“He’s been on multiple counts of bail and intervention orders, but he continues to breach them,” Sen Const Angell said.

“He is not only breaching these orders but he’s doing so in a way that is di cult for police to detect.”

Sen Const Angell said the victim had been diagnosed with PTSD following the alleged “obessesive” contacts and she displayed several concerns around his release and his compliance while on bail.

He said the victim no longer wished to remain in a relationship with the defendant, who allegedly continued to refer to the victim as his “girlfriend” or “partner” during police interviews.

Representing himself from custody, the defendant said he had recently applied for a separate intervention order against the victim at a Kyneton Magistrates’ Court as he had begun to see two psychologists for treatment of anxiety and depression.

He said he would be willing to give up his mobile phone if released and he had only been in Wangaratta on December 28 to work on his house, despite being banned from the Rural City of Benalla as part of his bail.

“I don’t want to come to North East Victoria, I just want to stay in Melbourne and work,” he said.

“I am never the rst one to make contact.

“I feel I am being coerced

CLEARING THE PATH: Emergency services responded to a crash of a vehicle towing a caravan along Snow Road near Oxley on Sunday a ernoon. PHOTO: Milawa CFA

NO INJURIES IN SNOW ROAD CRASH

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

INJURY was avoided after a car towing a caravan crashed and rolled over on the Snow Road near Oxley on Sunday afternoon.

A police spokesperson said a single vehicle towing a caravan crashed around 2:40pm, with multiple emergency service crews responding.

Quick action stopped freeway fire impacting on township properties

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

PROMPT action by firefighters in the air and on the ground prevented a wildfire from spreading into properties at Glenrowan on Monday afternoon.

Northbound traffic on the Hume Freeway was brought to a standstill as the fire spread along the median strip and started to head west towards the rear of nearby properties in the township.

A water bombing helicopter was dispatched from Benalla within minutes of the alarm being raised at around 5pm, while Glenrowan CFA firefighters were on the scene within five minutes.

and provoked into breaching my bail.”

Police prosecutor Sergeant Heath Dosser said the defendant was an unacceptable risk to o end again with three separate charges of persistent breaches of orders.

Magistrate Watkins denied bail and said he was concerned the defendant continued to blame the victim, despite a number of alleged contacts with her “clearly” being initiated by the defendant.

“It is plain neither party has coped well with the breakdown of the relationship,” he said.

The matter will return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on January 20 for mention.

Deadline approaches for volunteer grants

COMMUNITY groups in the area have been encouraged to lodge expressions of interest for the Federal Government’s 2024-’25 Volunteer Grants Program.

Groups have until 5pm on Friday, January 17 to lodge an expression of interest for the next round of the grants.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said no emergency treatment or transport was provided for occupants of the vehicle.

Emergency services from CFA Milawa and Oxley brigades along with Wangaratta SES and Fire Rescue Victoria also responded to the incident and assisted in traffic diversion and clean up.

Amounts between $1000 and $5000 are available to support organisations to increase participation in volunteering, and support children’s wellbeing through volunteering.

“This year, the grant focuses on funding important but often expensive costs involved with volunteering, like insurance premiums, phone bills and technology purchases, which are becoming increasingly more expensive,” Helen Haines (MHR, Indi) said.

“I encourage not-for-profit community organisations across Indi to consider putting in an expression of interest.

Marc

FIRE SCENE: CFA firefighters blacken out the median strip where the fire

about the ‘very real danger’ current hot and dry summer conditions present.

CFA District 23 operations manager Paul Horton - who actually raised the alarm after seeing the smoke while driving home - said the fire was a reality check for everyone

“This fire had enormous potential....there were flames up to 20 metres high as it spread into trees,” he said.

“We were luckily able to get on to it quickly.

“The helicopter did several passes (with water bombing) and crews on the ground were able to get in and help prevent its spread.”

A total of eight fire crews, from Glenrowan, Laceby, Wangaratta, South Wangaratta and Greta, attended and had the fire under control within 15 minutes.

Traffic was diverted through Glenrowan for around half an hour before all lanes of the freeway were re-opened.

Fire officers were back at the blaze site yesterday, investigating its cause.

District 23 duty officer Paul Scragg said that was still undetermined at this stage. He said with the absence of any cause such as lightning, human intervention - like a mechanical failure of a vehicle or a discarded cigarette butt - were strong considerations.

“Volunteer groups that I meet with across Indi tell me that grants like this go a long way in supporting volunteers to continue their important work.”

There are two streams of grant funding in the 2024-’25 Volunteer Grants program.

Stream one funds the purchase of communication or insurance items that will benefit a community organisation’s volunteers.

Stream two funds the purchase of items or services, or running volunteer-led activities, with the main purpose of supporting the development of children under 18, or adults whose volunteering activities supports children’s development and wellbeing.

Applications will be assessed by a panel of community members, with successful applicants then invited to apply to the Department of Social Services for a grant. Details on the eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found at: https://www.helenhaines. org/resources/grants/volunteergrants-2024-25/

PHOTO:

Bongers

Day out at the outdoor pool

BRING your own inflatables and enjoy a day out at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool this Friday, January 10, as well as January 17 and 31.

There will be free pool entry from 12 noon to 3pm on these days, offering the perfect chance to soak up the summer sun with family and friends.

Whether you want to float around in the pool, take a dip, or simply relax with a picnic, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, towel, and all your picnic essentials to enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

Wangaratta Farmers Market on Saturday

THE first Wangaratta Farmers Market of 2025 will be held this Saturday in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 8am until 12pm.

Shop for seasonal produce with a range of local growers, producers and makers in attendance showcasing their wares.

yourstars

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) It’s a good time to take a much-needed break from your recent hectic schedule and spend some time in quieter surroundings. Important news could arrive early next week.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The Taurean traits of reliability and thoroughness could be well-tested when decision-makers consider your proposals and/or requests. Be prepared to answer some probing questions.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A sudden attack of boredom leaves you with some tasks undone. It’s OK to take a short respite, but get back to work by week’s end so that you have time for other projects.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Avoid prejudging a situation just because it looks bad. Facts could emerge that can make your position uncomfortable, to say the least. Meanwhile, a relative has interesting news to share with you.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time to begin reassessing some of your recent decisions about your long-range goals to see if they still have merit. In addition, spend more time with loved ones this weekend.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unsettled situation at home or on the job early in the week could drain your energy levels, making it difficult to get your work done on schedule. But things improve by midweek.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A temporary setback could give you time to go over your plans to find weaknesses that you might have overlooked before. Also, a romantic getaway with a special person is favored this weekend.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Professional and personal situations benefit you once you set a positive tone in getting things off to a good start. Honest dialogue smooths over any occasional display of balkiness.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A problem with workplace colleagues or family members seems to defy even your sage counsel. But be patient. Your words will eventually lead to a resolution.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Don’t just wait out an unexpected and unexplained delay in your career move. You could gain added respect if you ask why it happened and what you can do to move things along.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)

Although your workplace strategies are usually accepted, you could be challenged by someone who isn’t so favorably impressed. Be prepared to defend your positions.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your friendship circle expands with new people coming into your life at this time. Welcome them warmly, but don’t neglect cherished longtime personal relationships.

Victorian State Ballet will present classic fairytale, Snow White

FOLLOWING nationwide sell-out seasons, the Victorian State Ballet returns this year to present the world-famous fairy tale Snow White at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in July.

With enchanting choreography by director Michelle Sierra, the production features a cast of internationally recognised artists in a full-length ballet spectacular of this traditional fairy tale which is loved by young and old.

The story of Snow White originated from a German fairy tale, written by the Brothers Grimm and published in 1812.

It follows a young princess who is so beautiful that her evil and jealous stepmother, the Queen, decides to kill her.

However, Snow White’s purity and beauty (inside and outside) protect her, and good overcomes evil.

The rst ballet based on the Snow White fairy tale was The Magic Mirror, which premiered in 1903 in Russia.

The Grimm fairy tale also got a technicolour treatment, becoming Disney’s rst animated feature lm in 1937.

As a ballet, it went on to be developed and performed by com-

panies around the world in front of millions, quickly becoming a family favourite.

With superb artistry and the highly skilled ballet technique of the Victorian State Ballet, Michelle Sierra presents her own enchanting take on the classic story and its famous characters, in a ballet no one will want to miss.

Enjoy unforgettable performances from world class leading dancers, including Grand pas de Deux’s by Snow White and her Prince, and the fascinating duet by the Evil Queen and her Magic Mirror.

The ery passion and exciting choreography of the Victorian State Ballet’s production will have audiences on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Bring family and friends along to experience the sheer delight, enchantment and beauty of this classical ballet which is suitable for all ages.

See Snow White at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, July 26 at 7.30pm with tickets on sale at wpacc.com.au.

There will also be an opportunity to meet and have a photo opportunity with the cast a er the performance.

Wangaratta Community Market on Sunday

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 also on site.

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.

Summer Fun Day on the way

A FREE Summer Fun Day will be hosted on Wednesday, January 15 by the Wangaratta Baptist Church, at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

All are invited to come along for a day of fun catering for the whole family, with free entry between 10am and 2pm, a sausage sizzle, and live music supplied by Cest Si Bon.

This event, along with an upcoming Easter Saturday Free Fun Day, has been supported by a Rural City of Wangaratta community grant, and Woolworths has generously donated supplies for the sausage sizzle.

The church’s aim is to help bring hope and joy to the community through a great day out together.

IN AWE OF NATURE

JAN Osmotherly’s photographs capture the majesty and wonder of the Warby Ranges, exhibition ‘Awe’ featuring the photographs is on display at the WPACC Foyer Gallery until March 12.

Don’t miss Outdoor Ball

ENJOY an unforgettable night under the stars in Merriwa Park at this year’s Outdoor Ball on Saturday, February 15.

The vibrant sounds of one of Australia’s top Latin bands, Zona 7, will provide the soundtrack as locals dance the night away between 6pm and 10pm.

There will be opportunities to capture memories at a photo booth, and to savour the taste of local beers, wines and food which will be available for purchase, or pack your own picnic for the night (no BYO alcohol).

Entry to the event is free, or a premium table can be reserved in a prime viewing area for up to 10 guests for $100.

A CLASSIC TALE: The Victorian State Ballet will present Snow White at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, July 26, with tickets expected to sell fast.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade quali ed, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.

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

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.

KIDS single bed, teak frame, with King Koil mattress and linen, $150, Whitfield. Ph 0447 526 403.

$50 OR UNDER

KING size mattress and base, very clean, FREE. Ph 0405 020 617. FOR SALE

2014 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited, convertible hard top, automatic, petrol 3.6 litre, loads of accessories, such as fog lights, hill descent, etc. goes anywhere, looks awesome in hard to get red, RWC, rego (2AD5JL), $21,500, Mansfield. Ph 0403 359 006.

2016 Mercedes GLA180, metallic blue, 120,000km, reg till Nov 25 (CIZ403), with warranty to Sep 28, economical 7.9l/100km, very good condition, RWC supplied, $22,000. Contact Joan 0422 261 537.

Rotary Appin Park Wangaratta

BELL, Graham. Rotarians and families from the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta are saddened by the recent passing of past Rotarian and Charter member, Graham Bell. Condolences are extended to Graham’s family and friends during this di cult time.

FALLA, Angas.

The Committee of Management, Management, Sta and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Rob, Fiona, Dave, James and family on Angas’s passing.

CHECK OUT OUR NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer

HAYNES, Colin.

The Committee of Management, Management, Sta and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Gary, Colin, Noel, Faye and family on Colin’s passing.

TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED

For the 2025 Grape Season. MUST BE OR HAVE: CURRENT HC LICENCE, OVER 25 YEARS OLD, FORKLIFT LICENCE, EXPERIENCED WITH GENERAL FREIGHT. APPROXIMATELY 8 WEEKS WORK, STARTING EARLY FEB. Above Award Wages for the right applicants.

PHONE GREG 0429 306 679 or email jenveytransport@gmail.com

Patricia. 19/11/1944 – 31/12/2024

Surrounded by family, Pat passed peacefully from this life into eternity.

Beloved wife of Geo Mills, sister of Jean Mulholland. Mother to Lyne and David, Margaret, Michael and Sharon, Phillip and Melinda, Kathryn and Ralph, Peter and Shannon, Elizabeth and Robert, Helen and David, Brendan and Tanaya, Mark and Katie, and Carmel.

Loving grandmother of 43, great-grandmother of 15.

“May her soul rest in peace!”

MITCHELL (nee Wells), Daphne Jean (known as Jean).

11/6/1928 - 29/12/2024

Family of Jean Mitchell is saddened to announce her passing on December 29, 2024. Aged 96 years. Passed away peacefully. Devoted wife of Kevin (dec). Mother/mother-in-law of Donald and Dianne, Marie and Kevin O’Connor (dec) and Andrew Walpole.

Adored Grandmother of Sarah, Craig, and Bradley Mitchell; Brendan, Matthew, Garry, and Lisa Walpole. Great Grandmother of Matilda, Daere, Maya, and Martin.

FRANKOWSKI

17/2/1937 – 26/12/2024

A graveside service to honour the life of John Frankowski will be held at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery at 10am on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

MILLS

Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Patricia Mills will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Yarrawonga on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11am. Following Mass, the funeral will leave for the Tungamah Cemetery. The Mass will be live streamed via ymfs.com.au

Rosary will be recited at Tungamah Catholic Church on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 7.30pm.

No owers by request. In lieu, donations can be made to Hilltop Albury Patient & Carer Accommodation.

YARRAWONGA MULWALA

FUNERAL SERVICES Ph 5743 2967 AFDA

MITCHELL

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the funeral service of Mrs Daphne Jean Mitchell. To be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, January 10, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Daphne’s service will be available to view via live stream at www. masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

Mason Park Funerals

DIFFEY, Joan Gladys. 7/10/1927 - 7/1/2016

Mum/Gran/ Great Gran,

Often thought of and very sadly missed by your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and all who knew you.

~ Daryl, Elaine and families.

TAYLOR, John. 10/10/1924-6/1/2021

4 years have passed since you le us. You are always in my heart. ~ Love Deb xx

MILLS (BYRNE),

Tennis club hyped for 99th Australia Day tournament

PREPARATIONS are well and truly underway for the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s (WLTCP) marquee event, with the 99th running of its annual Australia Day tournament just weeks away.

Held from Saturday, January 25 through to Monday, January 27, the Gateway Australia Day Tournament 2025 will bring together some of the best tennis players from the region and further a eld to test their skills on the pristine grass courts at Merriwa Park.

The highlight of the tournament will be the men’s and ladies’ Open Singles championships, with a whopping prize purse of $1200 for the winners, $400 for the runner up, and $100 for the losing seminalists.

Also on the program is singles, doubles and mixed doubles events for seniors and juniors alike.

WLTCP president Barry Sullivan said the courts were in exceptional

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

condition ahead of the busy tour-

“Preparations are going well, the courts are going to be in fantastic shape,” he said.

“I think the tournament, as we gradually head towards our 100th running of the tournament – this is our 99th year – people are really wanting to be a part of it and part of the build-up.

“More and more people, as they enjoy their time tell others, and they bring other friends and family connections that are involved in tennis.

“If we get around 350-400, that’s really good numbers for us, and we should be able to get in that range.

“On the Open Singles side of things, with the standard being as high as it is and the prize money we put on the table, it really has

helped attract some high-calibre players, that’s for sure.”

Tournament director Frank Harris said entries were on track to surpass last year’s total.

“We don’t have entries close o until January 15, but we’re tracking ahead of what we did last year in terms of player numbers,” he said.

“We’ve got 128 registered to date, and at the same time last year we had 100, so we’re up a bit at this stage.

“For those who witnessed thenals last year or the last couple of years, you wouldn’t see better tennis than that anywhere - grass court tennis is just amazing to watch.”

As with any event, volunteers form the backbone of organisation and operation, and Sullivan said the club was fortunate to have an army of willing helpers.

“Our committee works really hard to do all of the prep work in advance, and I think that’s why people want to come back, it’s a pretty family-orientated tournament and

it’s pretty well run,” he said.

“We’re really lucky because we’re tennis, croquet and pickleball – the ladies from the croquet do a fantastic job to help out and volunteer their time as well.

“We all know more hands make light work, and at the end of the day a lot of our members roll up their sleeves and do everything from working the kiosk to ordering food and making sandwiches and rolls, working behind the bar, working the barbecue, working in the tournament box.

“The logistics of making sure everything is catered for is really important, right down to emptying bins and making sure everybody’s having a comfortable time.”

The Gateway Australia Day Tournament 2025 runs from Saturday, January 25 to Monday, January 27.

Entries close on Wednesday, January 15, and for more information and to enter, visit www.wanglawntennis.com.au/tournament.html.

Massive fortnight ahead for local swimmers

THE year may still be fresh and new, but the Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club is already preparing for some exciting events.

This weekend commences a busy fortnight for the club, with two major events on back to back weekends.

Across January 11 and 12, the club will have a squad of 13 swimmers head to Melbourne to compete in the 2025 Victorian Sprint Championships.

They will compete in 15 events and three relay teams.

Among the 13 swimmers, Tom Benton, Patrick Hunter,

Darby Hunter and Lily Girolami will be attending for the rst time.

The action continues the following weekend in Mildura, with a contingent of 15 swimmers heading across for the Victorian Country Long Course Swimming Championships.

Over the three days, the swimmers will participate in 38 events and eight relays.

First time quali ers for this event are Emily Chandler, Emmy Brettig, Zara Kalish, Darby Hunter, Spencer Jackson, Tom Benton, Harry Chandler, Logan Pace and Maddy Cross.

ALL-ROUNDER: Whether it’s with bat or ball, Kyle WinterIrving makes an impact on the game.

‘Pie KyleWinter Irving tops bowling charts with WDCA season set to resume

■ From back page

“It’ll be nice getting Ollie back bowling, Dean Simmons back, which helps a lot – you can get away with it in the one-dayers but probably not in the twodayers.”

While his bowling has been a highlight, he also averages 45.76 striking at 125.69 from three knocks with the bat, with scores of 31 (20 balls faced), 57 (44) and 49 (45) for the Magpies.

“I didn’t really know where I was going to stand with the bat, I haven’t picked up a bat for a while,” Winter-Irving said.

“The wickets are pretty good up here, and batting at six I’ve got a lot more freedom.

“I don’t have to get in behind them, I can just go out there and play my shots – if I get out, I get out, but luckily enough I’ve gotten away with it.

“The one-dayers suit me a bit more, with limited overs you’ve got to get on with it a bit, but I’ve hit the ball alright.

“It’ll be a bit di erent a er Christmas, going back to a couple of onedayers then into the 70-over cricket, that’ll test my patience a bit more.”

Winter-Irving and the Magpies head to McNamara Reserve this weekend to resume their season against Ovens Valley United.

DIVING IN: The competitive swimming season recommences this weekend, the first of two major events for Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

STAGE IS SET: Frank Harris and the WLTCP committee and volunteers are preparing for the influx of attendees at the clubrooms at the Merriwa Park tennis courts across the Australia Day weekend.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

July

Monday, July 1

‘Pies steal victory

WANGARATTA came from the clouds to snatch victory over North Albury at Norm Minns Oval.

The Magpies trailed by 22 points at the 13 minute mark of the final term, but banged on four goals in the last 13 minutes to claim an unbelievable 9.13 (67) to 9.10 (64) win.

Wednesday, July 3

Borger boilover

AN inspired Wangaratta Rovers have caused a shake up at the top of the O&M table with a 50-33 win over thirdplaced Corowa-Rutherglen.

Former Vixen and Victoria Netball League (VNL) star Kim Borger donned the brown and gold for the first time since the Wangaratta derby in round one, which led a resurgent Rovers outfit at John Foord Oval.

Friday, July 5

High stakes for ‘Pies

WANGARATTA could be seeing themselves on the fringes of finals with a loss to Wodonga this weekend, as their season defining month of matches continues.

Both teams share a 6-5 record on the season and with fifth-placed Albury going in favourites against Lavington, the loser at Martin Park could be entering round 13 a game out of finals.

Monday, July 8

Blues bash Bright

GRETA senior footballers have cemented their standing as one of the flag favourites after downing fellow top three side Bright in emphatic fashion on Saturday.

The Blues built on a lightning-quick opening term to take the victory by 34 points, 16.9 (105) to 11.5 (71).

Wednesday, July 10

Home track double

THE Wangaratta Turf Club’s Into Our Hands Community race day saw three locally trained horses claim victories.

Andrew Dale cashed in with More Importance ($7.90) taking out race seven’s Garry Nash & Co Community Fund Handicap (1100m) by half a length.

sport year in review

racing

Friday, July 12

‘Pies’ massive task

WANGARATTA can send a warning shot to the rest of the competition with a win over flag favourite Yarrawonga at Norm Minns Oval tomorrow.

The Magpies have had a tough run over the past three weeks with clashes against finals hopefuls Wangaratta Rovers, North Albury and Wodonga and the road doesn’t get any easier.

Monday, July 15

Roos closer to finals

KING Valley’s 29-point win over Moyhu on Saturday may just be enough to secure a top six finish for the first time since 2019.

The Roos stood up in the big moments during what was a crucial match for both sides, coming away with the four points, 11.5 (71) to 6.6 (42).

Wednesday, July 17

‘Pies lose in blockbuster

WANGARATTA A grade netballers suffered their second loss of the season in what was one of the best O&M games of the 2024 season thus far.

In what was billed as the game

of the round, Yarrawonga claimed a gripping one goal win over the Magpies at Norm Minns Oval.

Friday, July 19

Berry bright future

WANGARATTA coach and Collingwood premiership player Ben Reid can see the AFL attributes that has seen Joe Berry named in the under 18 All-Australian team.

down from his role after this season.

Reid informed the playing group that he will step down at the end of the season after their slogging win over Myrtleford on the weekend.

Friday, July 26

Locals selected for Vic Country squads

FOUR local cricketers have been selected for Victoria Country’s U19

Off the back of a strong under 18 National Championships for Victoria Country that included a three goal haul in the thrilling final against Vic Metro, the small forward was picked in the All-Australian.

Monday, July 22

Magpies’ gutsy win

WANGARATTA pulled off a 10-point win in a low scoring affair against Myrtleford at RC McNamara Reserve.

The Magpies trailed by four points at half-time but rallied and kept Myrtleford goalless in the second half to grab a 3.9 (27) to 6.1 (37) victory.

Wednesday, July 24

Reid steps down

WANGARATTA Magpies senior coach Ben Reid has announced he’ll step

running

Back to School

Male Emerging Players squad.

Jimmy Thewlis (Wangaratta Magpies), Jez Rigoni (Rovers United Bruck), Harry Jones (Rovers United Bruck) and Kane Scott (Beechworth Wanderers) were all picked in the 19-man squad as they look towards December’s National Championships.

Monday, July 29 Bulldogs’ day out

MOYHU senior footballers’ finals aspirations were dealt a crippling blow by Tarrawingee after the Bulldogs had a day out to remember.

Tarrawingee led at every break to leave the Hoppers nine points in arrears by the final siren, 9.10 (64) to 8.7 (55).

Wednesday, July 31

Lady Devils ramping up to finals

WANGARATTA’S senior women’s side proved they’re sure to be a contender come finals after posting a comprehensive 9-4 win over Wodonga Heart at home on Sunday.

The goals came thick and fast in the opening 45 minutes, as the Lady Devils slotted five first half goals to blast Heart out of the contest early.

Monday, August 5

Bats’ historic win

FOR the first time since 2017, Goorambat has defeated Milawa in seniors footy.

The historic triumph comes off the back of a dominant second half, with the Bats running away with it 15.15 (105) to the Dees’ 12.9 (81).

Wednesday, August 7

Brisbourne’s fab four

BEN Brisbourne had a day to remember at Wodonga on Sunday.

The talented trainer kicked the 2024/25 season off in style winning four of the nine races, while he also had a further two placings.

Friday, August 9

Welcome home, Juice

INCOMING Whorouly coach Michael Newton is looking forward to taking the reins at his home club next year. Newton will make the move from Wangaratta Magpies at the end of the O&M season, returning to the club which kickstarted his glistening football career.

Monday, August 12

Rovers make statement

WANGARATTA Rovers made a statement against Wodonga at Martin Park.

While the Dogs were playing to stay in the hunt for finals, Rovers’ desperation for a second chance was on show.

Wednesday, August 14

Turf club’s top choice

August

Friday, August 2

Hawks, ‘Pies united

THEY may have been fierce rivals for more than 70 years, but Wangaratta’s two Ovens and Murray Football Netball League clubs are united in their displeasure with planned changes to the league’s player points system.

First introduced to the OMFNL and leagues across Victoria in 2016 as part of moves by AFL Victoria to create a more even playing field in community football across the state, the system currently allocates 40 points to each OMFNL club.

THE Wangaratta Turf Club’s Trainers’ Awards night was held on Saturday after a massive 2023/24 season.

Andrew Dale claimed the coveted Trainer of the Year, as well as the best strike rate at the Wangaratta Racecourse.

Friday, August 16

The day of fate

FOR King Valley and North Wangaratta’s senior footballers, finals start this weekend.

Their round 20 clash is the most important game of the year for the two proud sides, with the winner set to qualify for the 2024 finals series.

 ALL FIRED UP: Wangaratta Turf Club CEO Sean Barrett is amped up for Saturday’s inaugural Into Our Hands Community Race Day. With a 10-race card and all of the fun and attractions on offer, the day is sure to be a blast for all attendees. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

 PRIMED FOR PERU: Bella Pasquali heads to Peru for the World Athletics U20 Championships on Sunday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

 READY To FIRE: John Wojcik and the Wangaratta Clay Target Club are all set to host their inaugural Universal Trench competition. Up to 30 shooters are expected to line up and blast their way to a winning score.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

sport year in review

WDJFL premiers

Monday, August 19

Double chance locked

WANGARATTA Rovers’s senior fooballers overcame a Myrtleford hoodoo at RC McNamara Reserve on Saturday.

Having not won at Myrtleford since 2015, the Hawks flexed their muscles in the 5.11 (41) to 12.8 (80) win.

Wednesday, August 21 Derby final?

A WANGARATTA derby could be on the cards for the first week of finals if results fall the right way in the last round of the O&M’s home and away season.

With Yarrawonga and Wangaratta Rovers locked in the top two positions, North Albury (3rd, 40 pts, 125.57%), Wangaratta (4th, 40 pts, 124.18%), Wodonga (5th, 40 pts, 112.45%) and Albury (6th, 36 pts, 120.13%) can barely be split as they all look for a top five finish.

Friday, August 23 Minor flag battle

WANGARATTA’S A grade netballers can finish on top of the ladder with a win over the first-placed Wodonga Raiders at Birallee Park tomorrow.

The Magpies are just a win behind their counterparts with a better percentage, and a victory tomorrow would see them have a well-earned rest in the first week of finals.

Monday, August 26 Derby final ahead

WANGARATTA’s demolishing of Wodonga Raiders has set up a mouthwatering derby qualifying final.

After smashing Raiders by 148 points in a 26.20 (176) to 4.4 (28) demolition, the Magpies leapfrogged North Albury to finish third on the ladder, behind Rovers and Yarrawonga.

Wednesday, August 28

Dale’s super Saturday

ANDREW Dale starred on his home track at the Wangaratta Turf Club’s Members’ Race Day on Saturday.

Incredibly, the Dale stable took out three races in a row with Bellman ($3.30), Copperfield ($2.60) and Brnelyn’s Trooper ($11.40) saluting in races seven, eight and nine.

Friday, August 30

Pasquali is feeling the love

BELLA Pasquali and the Australian U20 mixed 4x400m team have conquered the world after winning gold Wednesday morning.

Qualifying fastest overnight in Lima, Peru, the Australians made up of Bella, Jordan Gilbert, Jack Deguara and Sophia Gregorevic dominated the field to smash their own U20 Oceanic record from their heat run, finishing in 3:19.27 in the final.

September

Monday, September 2

Blues ground Bombers

GRETA is through to their first senior O&K football grand final since 1999 after knocking off previously undefeated minor premiers Bonnie Doon by 37 points in Saturday’s qualifying final at North Wangaratta.

The Bombers’ 34-game win streak was halted by a determined Greta outfit in a dominant second half performance, saluting 15.8 (98) to 9.7 (61).

Wednesday, September 4

Bella adds silver

BELLA Pasquali added a glint of World U20 Championship silver to her gold, finishing her debut international meet with a stunning run in Sunday morning’s 4x400 women’s final.

Same as the mixed relay, Bella ran second in the women’s relay final and was handed the baton in third place trailing Italy and the United States.

Monday, September 9

Comeback kings

ONE of the greatest fourth quarter performances was what was needed - and delivered - to see Bright’s senior footballers triumph in their preliminary final over reigning premiers Bonnie Doon at North Wangaratta on Saturday.

Forward dynamo and league leading goal kicker Cooper Thomason booted five of Bright’s six goals in the fourth term to see the Mountain Men come from the clouds in a 12.4 (76) to 10.9 (69) thriller - and earn the right to take on Greta in the O&K grand final.

Wednesday, September 11

‘Pies bow out

WANGARATTA A grade netballers have been bundled out of the finals in straight sets.

After finishing second and earning the double chance, they had a tough finals series where they went down to the in-form Yarrawonga and now Corowa-Rutherglen.

Friday, September 13

It’s come to this

AFTER an extensive home and away season and three thrilling weeks of

finals, it all comes down to this – the Ovens and King Football Netball League grand final day is almost here.

The sporting community will descend on W.J. Findlay Oval tomorrow for a day chock-full of sporting action on the football field and netball court.

Monday, September 16 Rovers roll on to GF

WANGARATTA Rovers have booked their spot in the 2024 Ovens and Murray grand final.

In what was a tight affair against North Albury up until halfway through the third quarter, the Hawks strutted their stuff to salute 16.9 (105) to 11.4 (70).

Wednesday, September 18 Club of the Year

WANGARATTA City FC has taken out the Football Victoria Regional Club of the Year award at last Friday’s inaugural 2024 Victorian Football Gala.

The best of the best converged on Crown Palladium, with over 800 players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteer from across the state to come together to recognise the truly exceptional in the sport.

Friday, September 20 Monumental day for our Rovers

OVENS and Murray grand final

weekend is here and Wangaratta Rovers will feature heavily on the last day of the season.

Rovers have three teams vying for premiership glory with their senior and thirds football sides reaching the grand final, while their under 17s netball will also be in action.

Monday, September 23

Rovers premiers

WANGARATTA Rovers did the unthinkable and beat juggernaut Yarrawonga in Sunday’s Ovens and Murray grand final at the Lavington Sportsground.

Rovers led at every change and in the end were the team who took their chances clinching victory in a 9.15 (69) to 11.6 (72) thriller.

Wednesday, September 25

Loyalty pays off for Stone

THE last three seasons haven’t been easy for gun Rovers midfielder Dylan Stone but Sunday’s premiership made it all worth it.

Stone was advised to retire at the end of last year after an MRI scan showed severe osteoarthritis in his knee.

Friday, September 27

Heatley’s the man

WANGARATTA have locked in Jason Heatley as their coach for the next two seasons.

Heatley arrives with a wealth of experience having played 63 games at the highest level for West Coast and St Kilda, including 73 goals in the 1997 season.

Monday, September 30

Good get for turf club

THE Wangaratta Turf Club will host an Inglis breeze up session tomorrow.

Back to School

As part of the highly-touted Inglis Ready2Race sale, Wangaratta is one of three venues hosting breeze up days for the sale, with the other venues being Hawkesbury in NSW and Taupo in New Zealand.

 October, November and December Year In Review in Friday, January 10 edition

 Greta Football Club

 Wangaratta Rovers Football Club

TOURNAMENT organiser Frank Harris and the WLTCP committee are deep in preparations to hold their 99th annual Australia Day tournament. Entries for the beloved event close on January 15, just 10 days out from the first game of the three-day event.

■ Story page 13.

Kurt Hickling

SPIN TO WIN

‘Pie Kyle-Winter Irving tops bowling charts with WDCA season set

WANGARATTA Magpies are in a strong position heading into the second half of the WDCA A grade cricket season, thanks in large part to Kyle Winter-Irving’s e orts with bat and ball.

The rst year ‘Pie leads the competition in the bowling charts, taking 16 wickets from just four matches, at an incredible average of 5.50.

Winter-Irving boasts an incredibly frugal economy

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

rate of just under 2.5 runs conceded per over, and strikes every 13.25 deliveries.

He said being a relative newcomer to the league has helped him snag some wickets early in the competition.

“I’ve played cricket in

From First Bell

Nagambie in the Seymour comp then Shep comp, that’s where I’m originally from, then moved up a couple of years ago,” the right-arm o -spinner said.

“That rst game against Yarrawonga, it probably was in my favour I haven’t played this league so people don’t know a lot about me.

“I ended up getting a few against Yarrawonga (4/10), a few against Colts (6/33), and a couple more in those one-

dayers when you have some elders out on the boundary and can get a few caught on the fence, but it’s been really good.

“We’ve got a good group of fellas there and we’re reasonably strong too which makes it a bit more enjoyable when you’re winning games.”

The Magpies have opted for spin for the majority of their matches so far, with Winter-Irving, Matt

Prestianni and Jimmy Thewlis spinning a web around opposition batters to have Wangaratta on top of the one-day ladder and fourth in the red ball competition.

“I’ve copped a bit of stick about that (bowling spin), and I’ve copped a bit of stick wherever I go – a few of the boys who didn’t know me rocked up and thought I was going to come o the long run up and bowl a bit of

heat but that’s not the case,” he said.

“We’re probably lacking a seam bowler - Ollie Andrews has got a shoulder injury - we’ve got three spinners we’ve been using throughout the one-dayers, we’ve bowled the majority of the overs with spin, but I think it might change a bit a er Christmas when teams know we are pretty spinorientated.

■ Continued page 13

PHOTO: