WC100125SamReiher

TODAY

33o

Mostly cloudy

34o 30o 33o 35o SAT

SUN

MON

TUE

Weekend Edition

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

FRIDAY, January 10, 2025

Phone (03) 5723 0100

$2.00 INC. GST

FAMILY AND FLOWERS Arisa, Poppy, Jack and Sage Herry are brightening up the holidays for plenty of visitors to their bright blooms at Herry’s Harvest.

BUMPER BEEF SALE Page 4 Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

year in review sport

wangarattachronicle.com.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday,

January 10, 2025

bowls

 Peking Duk’s Reuben Styles (left) and Adam Hyde embrace Cathedral College year 10 student Kai McPhan as they fulfilled his deal of a lifetime to perform at Kai’s school formal on Thursday night.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

 GAS, flames, action: No it wasn’t local the scene of a movie set, but rather fire, firefighters simulating a major gas in the safe surrounds of the Wangaratta 2000 facility that has helped train up to year. emergency service members each The CFA’s Stewart Kreltszheim (left) those and David Maxwell were among kitted up in ‘retro’ 1980s CFA uniforms, entertaining hundreds of onlookers, to help mark the 40th anniversary of Wangaratta’s Victoria Emergency on Management Training Centre (VEMTC) Saturday. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

October

tennis  WELL DESERVED:

 Greg Braden’s A1 side forced a tie against Rutherglen on Saturday. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

79 and making 6/208 in reply to kick off Wangaratta Lawn Tennis the precinct, according blow” to users per cent), theof WDCA season.

(123.1 Croquet and Pickleball Club cent) and Strathbogie of the investment put into to Wangaratta Senior Citizens Club ($675 million) more have home prices Wednesday, October whose 2 median member Michael Falkenberg was Chambeyron.October 16 Wednesday, president Michael crumbling regional roads. since 2014.for his contribution than doubledrecognised Cricket’s ‘bridesmaids’ senior citizens which The carpark, City raceway secures 21 to tennis with a service Monday, 30 award regularly utilise when October toOctober step up in ‘24/’25 Wednesday, club members Aussie speedway title to object from Tennissave Council asked help Australia. WLTCPattending events at their clubrooms AFTER coming so close to glory Bystanders will play host to president Barry Sullivan wasinon Creek solar Court, is earmarked nearby TaraWANGARATTA over Meadow twice last season, Rovers United Bruck man’s Wangaratta of rev-heads deck to presentlife the award atfor the council’s in 2026, when as part of the removalthousands are eager to produce better cricket as proposal a handful 23rd SSA National Production project. by first club’s roundofof aggregate Precinct HEROIC acts Creative Wangarattathe they stare down the start of the A grade lodged will be crash helped AN objection Sedan Title comes to the Wangaratta a Moyhu tennis on Saturday. bystanders at 8 ANZAC Day season.

November Meadow Creek Solar Wangaratta Friday, against the young a City Raceway across of life PHOTO: Marc Bongers the saved School.

Wangaratta Hawks it all the way to the City ofmade Rural in weekend. do Farm by the The Votes are man. equipment.

These three parties say while they motion move agrand and two-day finals in ‘23/’24 Fordham, 22, remains in an councillors Council if onetrack wonCouncil hosting rights for Dylan it’s that time of year again – it’s time THE Business owner David Sessions of Wangaratta City local for Rural The not object to development of the subject recommending night.any silverware it ontoTuesday but failed bring home Melbourne Royal the at the massive event last week, take following to coma starting is ‘reimagine induced to years said at around 4:30am on Sunday, cricket. for the next four site, where council plans to make a for their efforts. in a A recommendation was airliftedand heWangaratta submissions from raceways across the Hospital after September 29, his Gibson Street The District Cricket shape, with Tania Maxwell and Dave the co-development’ of the Wangaratta to the Department of a crash on fromwill country.

Arts submission critical condition business was targeted by balaclavaunopposed candidates Friday, Octoberto4 Association commence their Fuller joining Art Gallery, Wangaratta Performing Transport and Planning objecting Road, about and Bussell as the Glenrowan-Moyhu wearing thieves. and Harry October 2024/25 season this weekend, withIrene bothGrant and Convention Centre (WPACC) council Friday, 18 has been made by awinning the issue Grand-slam Saturday.

2.30pm on senior and junior cricketers hitting latest the to be elected to their respective Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre, officer on the departmentlocked Friday, October 4 Richards traded to Port inbasis of planning coach park, with the exception of the C grade wards. they do have concerns about aspects is not located in a the development After-dark shift THE Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet competition which commences a week Maxwell and Mr Fuller are in MsAdelaide Both the proposal. suitable location. received and Pickleball Club has secured the wards and have WANGARATTA’S weekend nightclub WANGARATTA product Joe RIchards two-candidate November 1 Friday,later.

Monday, October 14 23 services ofOctober grand slam winning coach to be elected. quota scene is set for a shift over coming Wednesday, is on the move. ears 14 the required to our city’s MusicMonday, October Greg Duns.

Flow of discontent menu months, with Murphy Street’s Grand on After a breakout season Duk Peking artists November 11 with is filling Monday, ACCOMMODATION Duns coached Stephen Huss, Debut for theup, ages Central Hotel closed for renovations Collingwood this year, RIchards is off to RESIDENTS on the Ovens River in music duo Peking Duk AUSSIE way, and even the weather is stand after requesting a trade a Adelaide TakingPort who paired with Wesley Moodie, to are on their OVENS until at least early December.

Markwood are waiting for the North Valley United player-coach to spend some time in is expected as an event weekend’s needs, claim the 2005courtesy Wimbledon Doublesin tune with Against Violence (CAV) The hotel - affectionately known last week.

East Catchment Management Authority of local Geeth Alwis announced himself to theTHE Centre this week, Wangaratta district prepares for an as the Wangaratta Championship, famously beating allThe GC - held its ‘last call’ on Saturday (NECMA) to address problems of Wangaratta is making a bold call to competition after peeling off 89 fromin71 Kai McPhan. and a significant boost to Monday, October 21 to do teenagertime influx of visitors greats the Bryan brothers. before the lengthy break, with owner erosion which they say it promised action. balls and over taking 5/14 against days. Benalla The 15-year-old Cathedral College coming economy the the local Bushrangers from across Hawks hold off OVU 500 men Steve Wilson now preparing for the inviting over 20 years ago. is asking It on Saturday. group the emailed of who student,Monday, October 7 The four-day Wangaratta Festival in Wangaratta together venue’s first major renovation since Heather and Terry Greaves live on region at his party, The first-year Tiger was instrumental in to come ROVERS United Bruck held on they would playrewarded whetherRichards Jazz and Blues kicks off tonight, while of a movement part Valley and be 1994. a 162acre property along the Pioneer see next weeky Ovens Valley’s win at Benalla’s Gardens against Ovens United at RC its was shocked earlier this month to of Tarrawingee’s Plough Inn will host generations futureReserve Reach of the mid-Ovens River, upstream duo WANGARATTA’S Joe Richards will shape that Canberra Oval, knocking over the Bushrangers for McNamara on Saturday.

7 Award-winning over October ARIA Fest the Blues Monday, annual Tarra of Wangaratta - a stretch which suffered ansocials outstanding first year second of and ask good men, breaking the cycles of their of letter to off post hiscapped Saturday and Sunday, and a host No water woes a major river outbreak in 2016 following in fact, AFL football, claiming violence and creating hope. should,Collingwood’s they whether followers events are set to public works undertaken by NECMA WATER restrictions are not expected Harry Collier Trophy for the best first other complementary to the Rural City event.

DJ at Kai’s Wednesday, November 13 lend a real festival feel as part of the Markwood Deep Creek for Wangaratta this summer as local year player. pre-Melbourne Cup 25 October Who shot honey?

Friday,After Management Scheme. water storage levels have remained being drafted in 2022 and of Wangaratta’s weekend. stable despite significantly below festival VFL confirmed in 2023, Richards debuted A SENSELESS killing of a beloved Folk playing Wednesday, October 16 average rainfall for the year.

Festival the Magpies round nine againstMonday, November 4 pet alpaca has a local family searching andinLife Rhythm Folk THE for Healthy bed boost North East Water (NEW) general West will Coast and went on to play nineBlown away this December for answers to their grief as police be held at Eldorado THE Victorian Government is going manager environment, systems and games. investigate. were extinguished in 2023 after plans for is EXPECTATIONS were exceeded, to help fund more accommodation operations, John Day, said NEW Alan and Kim Sturzaker found their planning permit issues. due to Wednesday, October 9 as thousands of people soaked up on healthcare workers at Northeast Health currently preparing its summer water 15-year-old pet ‘Honey’ fatally shot About 65 bands will perform at the the superb offering of music at various Wangaratta (NHW).

No Warriors in 24/25 outlooks, which assess each water their Rose River property last Sunday Bilyana property in front of up to 3000 latest reincarnation of the Friday the last in Allan venues Jacinta region. the in Premier December of opening supply system morning. the weekend DELAYS with the of the new people on Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues confirmed Wangaratta’s public hospital has attracted event that courts has ledpatrons to Wangaratta the weekend.

6-8, anbasketball Wednesday, October 9 Friday, November 15 over was among 20 successful applicants and Australia not fielding sides in the theworld. men’s and from across Festival committee chair Andrew & mirrors Mental support from across the state that will receive Smoke women’s Country Basketball League Nunn said more than 2800 tickets had 28 October funding through the first round of the Monday, THIRTY-two mental health first DETAILS around the introduction with competition. been sold up until Sunday morning, doubled Victorian Government’s $150 million prices Property aid scholarships are set to be made of a new illicit tobacco sale regulator Despite hosting an NBL match in further expected into the day of what Worker Accommodation Fund.

Regional medium to small local Wangaratta to available have been queried by local prices late August, theacross two new courts at the had been a very successful rebirth of the HOUSING the past over businesses, in the first on-the-ground parliamentary figures as the State more than doubled Sports and Aquatic Centre festival, which in its 34 annual hosting have Wangaratta Friday, October 18 of a median use of funds raised by Wangaratta from Government makes a move to stamp rising decade, have still not been cleared price for public use.was revived by a new board and band No quick fix here June in trade. $526,000 tobacco to illicit initiative Project 365.

2014 out $253,500 in as of volunteers keen to ensure last year’s on WANGARATTA won’t be included October 11 to Domain.

The scholarship program will be Premier Jacinta Allan announced year, according of thisFriday, festival was indeed not a ‘last hurrah’. part of the State Government’s major cent median 107.5 launched at tomorrow’s Grit and Summer ofper cricket is Tuesday the State Government would Wangaratta’s road maintenance projects in its regional Resilience Festival Celebrating be introducing the toughest penalties price increase is part of Wednesday, November 6 property the here country Victorian blitz announced earlier in in the illicit tobacco headspace Day, to be held in forHelena CRAIG Weeding’s Prince Of is onetrade of two locally a string of Victorian regional local walk Take a IT seems like just yesterday the week. to be legislation Wangaratta’s King George Gardens as a part of trained horses set to of run $3new million Big Dance at thein Tuesday’s government areas (LGAs), including The State Government launched the stumps were being pulled down and the LOSS of the carpark at the rear parliament. from 4pm to 6.30pm, where brought forward in PHOTO: Racing Photos Randwick.

Alpine (171.8 per cent), Mansfield be “a big whites were given one last wash, but Wangaratta Art Gallery would $964 million road maintenance repairs members of Project 365 will also (107.4 per cent), Indigo (140.7 per program on Monday, with 70 per cent perform.

October

Wednesday, October 2 ‘Ruthless’ burglary

SESSIONS Asphalt in Wangaratta has been left gutted this week as burglars broke in and stole around $400,000 worth of machinery and

■ Full story page 2 PHOTO: Arisa Herry

Friday, October 11 Project concerns

FIVE objections have been received to a planning permit for the Wangaratta Creative Precinct project, including - St three from neighbouring properties Patrick’s Catholic parish, St Catherine’s Wangaratta, and St Patrick’s Primary

November

YEAR IN REVIEW

horse racing

After setting the Tigers 145 to win, Ovens Valley United were well on their way to chasing the total at 2-102.

Wednesday, October 23 Aggenbach steps up IT’S a new chapter in the storied history of Wangaratta City Football Club, with a changing of the guard in the role of president.

Kristy Mellor, who has held the office for the past three years, stepped down at the club’s annual general meeting on Wednesday night, with Brett Aggenbach appointed her successor.

Friday, October 25 Cross-road rivals to lock horns CROSS-road rivals Rovers United Bruck and Wangaratta Magpies will once again lock horns at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow.

It promises to be a cracking clash with both sides coming off confidence building wins after RUB held off Ovens Valley United and the Magpies stunned defending premiers Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Monday, October 28 Hawks soar over ‘Pies CLASHES between Rovers United Bruck and Wangaratta Magpies are one of the highlights of the A grade fixture, and the latest edition of the rivalry delivered in spades.

The Hawks took bragging rights at W.J. Findlay Oval on Saturday, bowling the ‘Pies out for 170 defending their 7/190 total.

Wednesday, October 30 Weeding and co dominate weekend CRAIG Weeding and his fellow Wangaratta horse trainers excelled on the weekend.

Not only did Weeding train three winners on Saturday and one on Monday, but local horsemen combined for eight winners on Saturday.

November Friday, November 1 Player points released WANGARATTA Rovers have been handed 36 player points for the 2025 Ovens and Murray season after their drought-breaking premiership win last

month, while the Magpies have been allocated 39.

Rovers had 40 points in 2024 and played with 39 in the grand final so will need to drop an additional three next season.

Monday, November 4 Ready for races THE Race That Stops A Nation is almost here, and the crowds will be trackside at the Wangaratta Turf Club on Tuesday to take in the big race for the first time in five years.

Between COVID restrictions, track works and the ever-fickle weather gods, punters, fashionistas and the general public have been unable to enjoy Melbourne Cup Day at the local track since 2019.

Wednesday, November 6 ‘Pups’ to help elevate Bulldogs REAPPOINTED Tarrawingee senior coach Justin Hoggan believes improvement will come from the young up and coming Bulldogs next year.

The club confirmed Hoggan would continue to lead the Bulldogs through the 2025 O&K season eager to continue to build the club back up to being competitive.

Friday, November 8 Theirs to win AS the A grade competition moves to wrap up the first round of red ball cricket for the season, Ovens Valley United and City Colts find themselves both in a strong position to record a win in their matches.

After a woeful run with the bat in last season’s two-dayers, Ovens Valley United have 298 on the board to defend after declaring seven down last Saturday against Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Monday, November 11 Tigers stun premiers OVENS Valley United A grade cricketers celebrated one of their biggest wins on the weekend, successfully defending their gargantuan 298 run total against reigning two-day premiers Yarrawonga Mulwala.

The Tigers were disciplined with their lines and lengths against the Lakers, and took their chances when they came, knocking Yarrawonga Mulwala over for 183 in a touch under 62 overs of play.

Back to School

Pages 14-15, 30-31

Back to School TRUSTED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FOR OVER 75 YEARS

TRUSTED FOR BACK TO WANGARATTA 66-68 Murphy Street SCHOOL FOOTWEAR Phone (03) 5721 3458 FOR OVER 75 YEARS

WANGARATTA

66-68 Murphy Street Phone (03) 5721 3458

BRING ON CARNIVAL Sport

FLOUTING LAW WANGARATTA police have expressed their disappointment in the detections of low-level impaired driving and speeding offences throughout the holiday period.

A statewide police crackdown on festive drivers flouting the rules on local roads took place as part of Operation Roadwise from December 13 to January 1.

Acting Sergeant James Schifferle of Wangaratta

“Disappointing” drink and drug driving detections mar safe holiday period

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

Highway Patrol said police were happy to see no major collisions or injuries recorded within the region throughout the operation, but too many drivers were caught flouting the law.

“Disappointingly we still

did detect too many people on the road with alcohol or illicit drugs in their system,” he said.

“That’s unacceptable and it continues to happen unfortunately.

“We also detected too many motorists for lowlevel speeding...people think that it’s ok to speed up to 10km/h over, but it’s not, and it puts everyone

on the road at risk.”

Due to ongoing industrial action, limited offence data was recorded throughout the 20-day operation.

Act Sgt Schifferle said no excessive speeding or drink or drug driving incidents were observed within the Wangaratta area during the operation.

Wangaratta police reported two incidents of

high-level drink driving and dangerous driving just prior to the operation, with a driver caught at a reading of .194 on Wednesday, December 4 at Springhurst and a local man with a reading of .265 caught driving erratically on Saturday, December 7.

Act Sgt Schifferle said drivers can still expect high volumes of traffic within

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED A1 Tyrepower will provide you with PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND ADVICE ON ALL YOUR TYRE NEEDS!

Ph: 5721 8488

A1 Tyrepower Wangaratta Cnr Roy & Norton Streets, Wangaratta

the region throughout school holidays and into the Australia Day long weekend, when police will begin Operation Amity in another crackdown on local roads.

“Even though the operation is concluded police will remain out on the roads detecting these offences and dealing with these drivers,” he said.

■ Continued page 2

TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. 1ST-31ST JANUARY 2025

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Flowers from a family farm

BY JORDAN DUURSMA

jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

ONE local family has been adding some colour to people’s weekends with bright blooms at their pick-yourown flower farm.

Herry’s Harvest is a smallscale family farm run by Jack and Arisa Herry, with a farm gate five minutes from the heart of Wangaratta, practising sustainable growing and providing for the local community and region.

Jack said Herry’s Harvest has been around as a local farm for close to 10 years.

“We started early on growing garlic before incorporating a wider variety of vegetable crops and then, as of last year, stepping sideways into flowers in a big way,” he said.

“Flowers had always been something we’d thought of adding in some way, shape or form.

“A friend gave us some Dahlias – Arisa’s favourite flower - for our wedding held in the old farm shed.

“We were so impressed by them, we decided to trial growing some on our farm, and found they grew really well in our soil.”

Last season was the Herry family’s first full season with pick-your-own flowers.

Arisa and Jack reported a great year with customers, both locals and travellers from far and wide, popping in to pick some flowers.

Arisa said the idea for flower picking came from customers’ interest in walking around the farm.

There is something extra special about being able to give a person a bouquet and being able to say you picked them yourself.

- ARISA HERRY

BLOOMING BOUQUET: Jack and Pippa Atkin are among the friends and families who visit Herry’s Harvest to take home a bouquet.

“We always thought it would be nice to offer something that gave people more of an experience, something hands-on,” she said.

“It gives everyone the opportunity to unleash their creativity in making their own bouquet.

“There is something extra special about being able to give a person a bouquet and being able to say you picked them yourself.

“But even before picking anything there is just something about being surrounded by beautiful flow-

ers that lifts the mood.

“We often have visitors comment how lovely it is just walking amongst the flowers and taking them all in.

“Some come alone, some come with friends and family, chatting away, snapping photos and sharing blooms

as they catch-up on the days, weeks or months since they last spent time together.”

Arisa and Jack have two children, Poppy who is almost five and Sage who is three months old.

“So flowers, while they still require a lot of care, are

something the whole family can enjoy getting involved in, so it is really an all-of-family operation now,” Arisa said.

“It has been a delight to see our daughter share her knowledge of flowers and the local insects with children visiting the farm.”

“Disappointing” drink and drug driving detections mar safe holiday period ■ From frotn page

FORCING THE ISSUE: Police will continue to patrol local roads as high volumes of traffic remains throughout school holidays and into Australia Day.

There were 282 lives lost in 2024 compared with 295 in 2023, with police data showing a six per cent increase in the number of single fatal collisions.

There were 18 people who lost their lives on North East roads last year, including two within the Rural City of Wangaratta

on Wangaratta-Beechworth Road.

Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, motorcyclists, cyclists and escooter riders made up 45 per cent of all lives lost on Victorian roads in 2024.

A total 149 lives were lost on regional roads, down from 172 in 2023.

Police identified single

acts of non-compliance or people making basic driving errors contributed to more than half of fatalities in 2024.

These are behaviours such as low-range speeding, lower-level drink driving, failing to obey road signs and distraction, like using a mobile phone while driving.

f

yo

u r l o c a l co

m

S

SAUM VEMER R

6.00 12 MONTH FIXED TERM CONDITIONS APPLY.

%

y

A SUNNY

unit

A par

m

to

YOUR LOCAL

Since 1990 ✆5721 5200 www.winsec.com.au 43 Reid Street Wangaratta E: info@winsec.com.au Important Notice: Win Securities Ltd, AFSL Licence No. 240901, Australian Credit Licence No. 240901. Win Securities Ltd offers investments in Winsec Notes and is not a Bank. All investments involve risk and investors risk losing some or all of their principal investment.

The risk of investment in Win Securities Ltd is set out in our current Prospectus lodged with ASIC and dated 27 November 2024 and should be read and understood before investing.

Investments in Winsec Notes may only be made by completing the application form that accompanies the Prospectus.

Copies of our Prospectus are available at our office situated at 43 Reid Street Wangaratta or on our website at www.winsec.com.au or by calling 5721 5200.

Effective 12 December 2024. Subject to change without notice. *Conditions apply.

RADIO STATION

livestreaming

www.oakfm.com.au

Project 365 live @ Avian Park, Feb 22nd.

Tickets on sale humanitix.com.au.

104 Murdoch Rd Wangaratta

5722 1569

enquiries@oakfm.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 3

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Teenager allegedly committed armed robbery while on bail 14-year-old was released amidst concerns of “escalating” alleged criminal behaviour

A NORTH East boy alleged to have committed an armed robbery of a Wangaratta store while on six counts of bail has been released.

A Children’s Court heard police were called to Wangaratta Tobacconists on Ford Street earlier this week after the store owner reported an alleged armed robbery.

The court heard the 14-year-old

and he was taken into custody overnight.

The prosecutor said the teen was on six counts of bail which included charges of theft, assault and weapon possession and his alleged offending was beginning to “escalate”.

The court also heard the boy allegedly made an explosive device out of a deodorant can and a

allegedly entered the store and pulled out a knife from a sieve and demanded money and goods.

The store owner took photos of the boy as he allegedly held the knife, which was shown to police along with CCTV footage upon their arrival.

A police prosecutor said the boy was “easily identified” around 30 minutes after the alleged incident

sparkler, making a “grenade-like” ignition in a public area in recent weeks.

Defence counsel for the boy said he was found suitable for bail support if released and had vulnerabilities in custody given his youth.

The court heard the mother of the boy said she had “great difficulty” controlling her son and he

regularly “goes and does what he pleases”.

The boy was granted release on strict conditions, which included a curfew, strict living arrangements and a ban from possessing knives.

The police prosecutor said the boy would be regularly checked and monitored before his next appearance in court, where police had applied to revoke bail.

Wangaratta man remains in custody for alleged arson of racecourse grandstand

Pair avoid serious injury after Glenrowan crash

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN AN alleged arsonist, believed to be from Wangaratta, will remain in custody after being charged with setting a heritage-listed Caulfield Racecourse grandstand alight.

The 51-year-old man faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday after he was charged with causing serious damage in a series of fires in Caufield and Mordialloc on Tuesday, January 7.

The man was alleged to have started a major blaze which tore through the Norman Robinson Grandstand of the Caulfield Racecourse about 6.25am, with more than 65 firefighters and 17 appliances used to respond and quickly contain the blaze within an hour.

Police also allege the man started several grass fires in Mordialloc about 12.30pm and set a series of small fires in Arnott Street, Caulfield shortly after.

Mordialloc police arrested the man at the Mordialloc Railway Station around 1:45pm the same day.

The man, whose last known address was in Wangaratta, was charged with four counts of arson, two counts of trespass and one count each of burglary, criminal damage and theft.

He was remanded in custody, and he will appear back before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 1 for a committal mention.

FEELING WELCOME: Kevin Kelly, with dogs Dozer and Jax, has been overwhelmed by the amount of support offered by Wangaratta residents in recent weeks.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

Kevin is grateful for local support

By SIMONE KERWIN KEVIN Kelly has been overwhelmed by the level of support offered to him by Wangaratta and district residents in recent weeks.

The 47-year-old said when his lease was up just over a fortnight ago, he had intended to hit the road in search of work - until car trouble played havoc with his plans.

Kevin found himself in front of the WJ Findlay Oval with a blown head gasket, and nowhere to stay with his two dogs, Dozer and Jax. He said a number of locals had stopped to ask whether he needed help as he checked out the car when

it first stopped, and even offered to tow him for assistance.

Camping in the highly visible carpark outside the Findlay Oval, Kevin said he had been surprised by the number of locals checking on him and offering their help.

Some have even assisted him with his bid to find labouring work to help him cover repairs to his car.

Kevin said he had been surprised by the hospitality of Wangaratta people.

“It is hard to ask for help, and it’s rare to find people wanting to stop and help,” he said.

“Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve grown attached to the area and the

people, and I feel it could be a good place to settle if I had a place to stay.”

Local resident Joe Rourke, who posted on the Wangaratta Community Noticeboard Facebook page on Tuesday to let locals know Kevin’s situation, said he too had been overwhelmed by the level of support.

“I just put a Facebook post up, and it’s gone from there,” he said.

“It was just a chance to help him a bit, and people have really stepped up.

“People can be really good, and I’m so proud of my town.”

Anyone keen to assist Kevin can register their help via the Wangaratta Community Noticeboard post.

TWO Melbourne travelers were hospitalised following a crash on the Hume Freeway in Glenrowan on Wednesday evening.

First Constable Brent Nichols of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said at around 5:45pm a single vehicle towing a caravan crashed into the freeway’s wire barriers and rolled on the road’s southbound lanes.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said a man in his 60s and a woman in her 50s were assessed at the scene for minor injuries and later taken to Wangaratta Hospital for observation.

As of 1pm Thursday, First Const Nichols said one of the Melbournebased occupants had been discharged while the other remained under observation at hospital awaiting results.

First Const Nichols said the freeway was blocked for a short period of time before operating as a single lane as crews cleared the vehicle from the road, re-opening some two hours later.

We are the Centre of your Community

We help you find, what you are good at and what your next step is towards your goal.

Enrolments NOW OPEN FOR 2025

We have Certificate Courses in Aged Care, Disability &School Based Education Support CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support

www.thecentre.vic.edu.au The Centre for Continuing Education, Inc. Reg No. A0001858K | A Child Safe Organisation TOID 4172 Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to access government subsidised training. This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth funding.

Call today on 03 5721 0200

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Roadworks signage removal causing concern

Lodge your Hottest 100 votes

By STEVE KELLY

THERE’S still time to get your votes in for triple j’s Hottest 100 of 2024, one of the most anticipated events of an Australian summer.

Voting wraps up on Monday, January 20 at 5pm at https://www.abc.net.au/triplej for those keen to recognise the artists and songs which helped shape their year.

On Friday, January 24 from 12 noon, Double J will relive the Hottest 100 of 2004, while this year’s countdown kicks off on Saturday, January 25 at 12 noon.

IMPROVEMENTS: Sailsbury Street works include the installation of new road pavement, kerb and channel drainage and footpath installation.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

THE removal of signage affiliated with existing roadworks on Wangaratta’s Salisbury Street has been worrying some locals.

During the Christmas period the Rural City of Wangaratta council encountered several instances where the signage was removed or knocked over.

Council said this week that the contractor is continuing to regularly monitor their traffic management signage and reinstall it as soon as possible.

Road reconstruction works along Salisbury

Street are being undertaken as part of council’s asset renewal program.

Works include the installation of new road pavement, kerb and channel drainage and footpath installation.

The site of the works is on Salisbury Street between Burke Street and Cribbes Road.

This project has been co funded by the Roads to Recovery Program and council.

Council reported that the contractor has returned to site this week, with an anticipated completion timeframe late January.

Store sale beefed up by keen interstate buyers

BY KURT HICKLING

khickling@ nemedia.com.au

TEMPERATURES: Friday

Max 33 Min 16 Mostly cloudy

Saturday Max 34 Min 17 Late shower Sunday

Max 30 Min 17 Late shower

Monday

Max 33 Min 15 Fog then sunny

Tuesday

Max 35 Min 16 Mostly sunny

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

11 mm

11 mm

Lake Buffalo

17 mm

17 mm

Cheshunt

22.2 mm

22.2 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Thursday

NEWS TIPS Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Fax: 5721 9447

CONTACTS POSTAL ADDRESS: 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0101 DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0139 Fax: 5721 9447 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Website: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

Member

WANGARATTA Livestock Exchange held its annual premier Angus weaner and grown feature sale on Wednesday, which saw a healthy yarding of 4000 cattle with a strong turnout of buyers.

It reflected the high demand for quality cattle following a tough 2024 which proved a struggle for many producers.

Corcoran Parker stock agent Reiley Murtagh said the turnout on Wednesday’s sale was a welcome sight with plenty of buyers travelling from NSW along with strong local interest, which boosted prices and showed the overall confidence in the market.

“There was a big push from northern buyers which added strong competition in bidding that kept prices up and reflected the current demand leading into the autumn period,” he said.

“Heifers saw the biggest rise in price which has not been seen in some time.

“Prices remained very strong in the open cattle section seeing prices jump by $1.10/kg.

“Overall, the start to the year is showing optimism and confidence in the industry and we hope the trend continues.”

Hereford, Black Baldy, Euro and other breed of weaners and grown cattle sale will be held on Friday, January 10 at the Wangaratta Livestock exchange starting at 2pm with another strong line-up of stock expected to again attract interest showing from local and interstate buyers.

Mr Murtagh said prices at Wednesday’s sale saw top end Angus steers 420kg at $1820 or 4.25/kg, 380kg Angus calves at $3.40/kg, Angus calves 300320kg at $4.25-$4.68kg, Lighter Angus steers 270kg at $1350 or $5.00/kg.

Mansfield cattle producer Rodda Manning, who presented 700 Angus steers and 50 heifers at the sale, grew up on his family farm and took over the reins 15 years ago on the 7000-acre property.

Like most cattle producers in the region, he said the Davilait

Pastoral Company farm has had ups and downs with the unseasonal conditions that began this time last year, however, he was pleased cattle prices remained firm.

“Last year we had a terrible autumn with no rainfall to be seen, which continued into winter seeing conditions cold and dry,” Mr Manning said.

“This continued into spring, which continued to mount pressure on our farm, particularly our cattle who struggled during this period.

“The November rain did save us seeing 115mm fall on the farm.

“The cattle fed on what little grass was left and were supplemented with silage to keep them moving forward.

“The market prices here in Wangaratta and the North East are governed by rainfall in the north into NSW. “Good rain along with plenty of feed in the north not only eases pressure on farmers, but also draws interest to sales here locally with producers in the north looking to buy in numbers and are prepared to pay market or above market value.

“The overall results of this sale were very pleasing pricewise, which I’m sure instills confidence in producers moving forward into 2025.”

POSITIVE START: Mansfield cattle producer Rodda Manning believes the market is bouncing back in a strong way.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Weaner Market Report Wednesday, January 8, 2025 Vendor Head STEER DD & SEATON PARK P/SHIP 19 SIMPSON AG & JE 25 MERCIECA PASTORAL PTY LTD 20 M ROCHE 32 PAYNTER D & R 15 COLD SPRINGS PAST 39 DAVILAK PAST CO 28 WARNER RS & NJ 31 HEYWOOD DKF 16 HEYWOOD DKF 30 HINDLE 11 HINDLE 27 CN EMSLIE 3 MCPHERSON K,P,M&B 33 MCPHERSON ALAN 16 ATRIUM ONE 7 MCPHERSON K,P,M&B 3 HEIFER MCPHERSON K,P,M&B DD & SEATON PARK P/SHIP GRIFFORAN PAST CO M ROCHE CINCHRIS MERCIECA PASTORAL PTY LTD M ROCHE HEYWOOD DKF HEYWOOD DKF CRAWFORD S & D GJ & DM ALLEN

35 11 16 18 12 17 11 22 30 5 11

Breed

Avg. Wt.

$/PH

Agency

ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS

428.16 380.2 389.5 363.91 409 367.44 365.89 294.68 393 309 351.82 306.85 278.33 310.45 301.56 304.29 435

1820 1670 1630 1560 1630 1530 1530 1390 1740 1460 1470 1400 1310 1405 1380 1380 1700

CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER

ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS ANGUS

370 374.55 343.44 334.44 342.5 302.94 297.73 330 300 363 324.09

1420 1500 1390 1360 1310 1170 1080 1200 1200 1160 1050

CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER CORCORAN PARKER ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS ELDERS

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 5

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NEW YEAR’S

SALE

LMCT 12188

INTO

CONTINUES 2025 & SAVE

D R I V E A W A Y

D R I V E A W A Y

COOL BY THE POOL: Leon Newton, manager sports and aquatic and events at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre, and lifeguard Clove Boonzaayer encourage locals to take advantage of free entry at the centre’s outdoor pool between 12 noon and 3pm on January 10, 17 and 31. There will also be a free youth pool party at the venue on Friday, January 24 from 11am to 1pm.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Cool place to be

KEEPING cool during the rural city’s current run of 30-degree summer days is as easy as dropping in to the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

The centre has kicked off its Picnic by the Pool promotion, which offers free entry to the WSAC outdoor pool between 12 noon and 3pm on a series of Fridays during January; the opening event last Friday attracted 140 people.

Leon Newton, manager sports and aquatic and events at WSAC, said the initiative offered extra incentive for people to drop in and utilise the space.

“We are looking at different ways to get young families to come in and enjoy the facilities, and this is one of them,” he said.

“We’d love people to bring their inflatables and a picnic, and to make the pool area their backyard for the afternoon.

“We’re really excited by the initial take-up, and we hope it continues.”

Picnic by the Pool will again be held on January 10, 17, and 31 from 12 noon to 3pm.

BY SIMONE KERWIN

skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

On Friday, January 24, the outdoor pool will host a free pool party between 11am and 1pm for 12 to 25 yearolds, with a free barbecue and DJ entertainment.

The success of the first Picnic by the Pool event on Friday rolled into the heat health alert for last Saturday and Sunday, which opened WSAC for free swimming, with the outdoor pool’s hours extended to 8am to 8pm.

Temperatures climbed into the very high 30s on both days, and Mr Newton said 750 people took the chance to swim at the centre over the two days.

“That’s an initiative supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta; we are one of the venues identified as cooling-off places, and it was great to see people making the most of that,” he said.

The centre has again been a hive of activity during this week, hosting VICSWIM classes for local youngsters.

And bookings are being

taken until Monday, January 13 for the upcoming threeday Bush Nippers program.

A great success during its inaugural year at Wangaratta in 2024, the program partnering WSAC with Lifesaving Victoria is a rural inland adaptation of the coastal Nippers education program, designed for primary school-aged children.

To be held at Wangaratta’s Sydney Beach, it aims to develop lifesaving water safety knowledge and skills in open water environments, to enable participants to make safe aquatic-related decisions while enjoying their local waterways.

Forty youngsters have registered for the program so far, and further enrolments can be made at https://www. wsac.vic.gov.au/Bush-Nippers, with registrations set to close on Monday.

“The program was booked out last year, and we have more staff involved this year, so can take more enrolments,” Mr Newton said.

There are also plans to expand this initiative by offering it to schools, with an expression of interest having been issued for term one.

THINKING ABOUT A NEW SHED FOR THE YEAR AHEAD?

MAZDA $86,998 2023 BT-50

MAZDA $68,925 2023 BT-50

7,095km | Auto | 3.0LDiesel

21,852km | Auto | 3.0LDiesel

$103,111

D R I V E A W A Y

$48,888

2023 HYUNDAI TUCSON SPORTINESS

25,999 km | Auto | 1.6LPetrol

1ZD9TG

HIGHLANDER N LINE AND PREMIUM

2020 TOYOTA YARIS ASCENT

PERFECT LITTLE GO-GETTER

1RI3UD

D R I V E A W A Y

FLAIR

$82,490

SP TF AUTO 4X4 DUAL CAB FULLY OPTIONED

CNL319

D R I V E A W A Y

HYUNDAI $69,925 2023 PALISADE $69,999

HIGHLANDER

18,000km | Auto | 2.2LDiesel

1ZP7AQ

2015 MAZDA 3 MAXX BM SERIES

EFFICIENT WITH LOW KILOMETERS

1EX2KH D R I V E A W A Y

8-SEATER

2016 HYUNDAI TUCSON ACTIVE AUTO 2WD MY17

STYLE, COMFORT, AND PURE PRACTICALITY

1IM1DM D R I V E A W A Y

$19,425 $19,999

$18,425 $19,151

$20,225 $20,888

70,114km | Auto | 1.3LPetrol

47,772km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

81,437km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

2022 MAZDA CX-9 GT

VIP LOUNGE ON WHEELS

CCG414

D R I V E A W A Y

2019 MITSUBISHI ASX ES XD AUTO 2WD MY20

WON’T LAST LONG!

1RH1KS D R I V E A W A Y

$54,425 $54,999

$21,425 $23,990

25,999km | Auto | 2.5LPetrol

59,000km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

2017 LEXUS ES

2023 TOYOTA RAV4

ES300H LUXURY AUTO

LUXURIOUS & ECO-FRIENDLY

COD570

D R I V E A W A Y

VTI-S AUTO MY14

STYLISH & RELIABLE

1AS7BO D R I V E A W A Y

$15,888 $15,999 60,715km | Auto | 1.8LPetrol

G25

FULL LUXURY HYBRID SUV

2BJ6DY

2014 HONDA CIVIC

2021 MAZDA 3

CRUISER AUTO 2WD

D R I V E A W A Y

STYLE, COMFORT & FUN

1UB4FZ D R I V E A W A Y

$27,825 $28,999

$52,925 $58,880

$27,925 $28,999

140,507km | CVT | 2.5LHybrid

21,568km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

57,795km | Auto | 2.5LDiesel

2015 TOYOTA COROLLA ZR AUTO

STYLE AND FUNCTION

1FC3BJ D R I V E A W A Y

2023 MAZDA CX-8 G25 TOURING

ALL CLASS

1YF8TW D R I V E A W A Y

2023 HYUNDAI I30 AUTO MY23

SNAZZY & COMPACT HATCH

EZU14Z D R I V E A W A Y

$18,825 $19,999

$46,325 $46,925

$28,825 $28,999

74,354km | Auto | 1.8LPetrol

15,300km | Auto | 2.5L Petrol

11,898km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

2022 MAZDA CX-9 TOURING TC

NEW YEAR. NEW SHED.

ONE WITH THE LOT

GT TF 4X4

DGZ527

FAMILY FRIENDLY

BWR200 D R I V E A W A Y

2022 TOYOTA YARIS CROSS GX AUTO 2WD

IDEAL FIRST CAR

1ZS2RV

D R I V E A W A Y

2009 MAZDA 3 MAXX

GREAT RELIABLE SEDAN

1BR9RU D R I V E A W A Y

$36,825 $37,425

$26,999 $27,490

$12,925 $12,999

95,812km | Auto | 2.5L Petrol

68,287km | Auto | 1.5LPetrol

103,486km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

*Conditions apply- See in store

WANGARATTA

M A Z DA

Dial-a-Deal 5721 5677

Scan QR code to view our entire range of Used Cars

Visit us at TEMPLETON STREET

buffalobuilt.com.au

BUF_Wangaratta_Chronicle_Template.indd 1

MOVING YOU... ONE MILE AT A TIME 17/12/2024 11:48 am

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

WHAT’S ON

Day out at the outdoor pool

Summer Fun Day on the way

BRING your own inflatables and enjoy a day out at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool today, 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.

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.

Wangaratta Community Market on Sunday

SUPPORT LOCAL: Riley Mcdonald and Jes Myers from Edible Alchemy are two of the many local growers and makers who sell their produce and wares at the Wangaratta Farmers’ Market.

Shop local at the Wangaratta Farmers’ Market on Saturday

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.

By JORDAN DUURSMA

THE Wangaratta Farmers’ Market is back for its 10th year running, kicking off the 2025 season tomorrow in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 8am until 12pm.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shop for seasonal produce with a range of local growers, producers and makers.

Market coordinator Eleanor Currie encourages locals and tourists alike to visit the market.

“It’s a great place for a relaxing Saturday morning, to meet up with friends for a coffee and enjoy some live music, or to pop in after park-run for a fresh OJ and loaf of warm bread,” she said.

“People who want to support local farmers, producers and makers, care for sustainability, or love good quality food and products should come.”

The Wangaratta Farmers’ Market is an accredited Victorian Farmers Market Association Market, meaning con-

Free live local music LISTEN to local musician Riff Ferguson at The Vine Hotel Wangaratta this Sunday, January 12 from 12:30pm to 2:30pm.

Riff will be performing his new single ‘So Many Memories’ along with some familiar favourites.

For more information, visit https://www. thevinehotel.net.au.

1

sumers can be confident that all stallholders are selling their own locally grown, sourced and made product.

Ms Currie said it’s so important for the community have access to fresh, delicious, local produce, free from mass production and chemicals.

“It is so much better for our health to eat local, suitable to our climate and environment, which is also reducing the thousands of kilometres travelled by most supermarket food and therefore far less harmful for our environment,” she said.

“It’s also better for our mind as we can be proud of supporting the livelihoods of others in our community who have chosen to farm or produce small patch products.

“By supporting local, we put back into our local economy which ensures a healthy, happier community.”

This season’s offerings to look out for at the market are: stone fruit, berries, citrus of lemon, line and Valencia oranges, melons, beans, beetroot, peas,

cabbages, capsicum, carrots, celery, corn, cucumber, zucchini, eggplant, garlic, salad greens, mushrooms, onion, potato, radish, rhubarb, squash, herbs, chilli and tomato.

There will be fresh fruit, herbs and vegetables available, meat and fish, fresh flowers, as well as staples like bread, cheese, wine, honey and eggs.

Handmade goods like preserves, superfoods, sweets, hot food and coffee are a key feature of the market, along with handmade products like pottery, blankets and live music.

Ms Currie said whether it’s to eat better, reduce your plastic waste, support local business, or be more involved in community projects, the farmers’ market is a great way to support you on your health and wellbeing goals for the year ahead.

“If you haven’t been to check it out, you definitely need to,” she said.

“The more support we get, the better it will be.”

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.

.95% *

P.A.

FINANCE

SL750 WHEELED

78,495

$

EX GST

TL750 TRACKED

82,995

$

EX GST

*TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY PHOTO FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. BUCKET NOT INCLUDED.

k k n n i i Skid Steers h h T T

271 Tone Rd Wangaratta VIC 3677 (03) 5722 9933

Brendan Breen 0427 202 737 | Hayden Murray 0409 814 296

www.mcgregor-machinery.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 7

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SMOKING RATES IN ADULTS IN WANGARATTA STILL HIGH

Plenty of puff here

By JORDAN DUURSMA SMOKING among adults remains more prevalent in Wangaratta than many other parts of Victoria, according to latest research from Cancer Council Victoria.

A new report from the council’s Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer (CBRC) shows a concerning prevalence of smoking and vaping across Victorian communities.

According to the report, the estimated number of Wangaratta adults who currently smoke tobacco is 3774, which is 16.1 per cent of the adult population.

Overall, Victoria has an estimated 746,126 adults who currently smoke tobacco, which is 14.6 per cent of the adult population.

The estimated number of Wangaratta adults who spoke tobacco daily is 3124, which is 13.3 per cent of the adult population, and the estimated number of Wangaratta adults who currently vape is 1155, which is just 4.9 per cent of the adult population.

Quit director Rachael Andersen said the need for public health efforts and campaigns which address both smoking and vaping has never been more critical, considering the gateway effect between the two behaviours.

“A recent study of Australian teens showed people who vape but have never smoked are at least five times as likely to take up smoking,” she said.

“So, while much of the media narrative of the past years has focused on vaping, if we stop educating the community on

the harms of smoking and if we reduce support for quit smoking attempts, we risk seeing the areas with high vaping rate areas becoming high smoking rate areas in the future.

“If we don’t address the stubbornly high smoking rates in regional areas, we risk seeing health inequities continue to widen.”

According to the report, despite continuing declines in current smoking prevalence among Victorian adults, numerous LGAs such as Wangaratta had current smoking prevalence rates well above the state average in 2022.

“This reinforces that, while it is important to address vaping as an emerging and growing issue, comprehensive efforts must continue to focus on

reducing harm from smoking tobacco,” Ms Andersen said.

For support to stop smoking or vaping, connect with Quitline on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger @QuitVic, live chat through quit.org.au or request a call back at a time that suits you.

From Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, qualified Quitline counsellors are ready to support you on your quitting journey.

HEALTH CONCERNS: A new report estimates there are 1155 Wangaratta adults who currently vape, which is 4.9 per cent of the adult population. PHOTO: Shutterstock Estimated number and percentage of Victorian adults who smoke tobacco daily by LGA. Victoria, 557169, 10.9 per cent Wangaratta, 3124, 13.3 per cent Alpine, 1336, 12.4 per cent Indigo, 1636, 12.0 per cent Strathbogie, 1263, 13.3 per cent Wodonga, 4949, 15.0 per cent Benalla, 1667, 13.9 per cent

Estimated number and percentage of Victorian adults who currently smoke tobacco by LGA. Victoria, 746126, 14.6 per cent Wangaratta, 3774, 16.1 per cent Alpine, 1590, 14.8 per cent Indigo, 1962, 14.4 per cent Strathbogie, 1425, 15.0 per cent Wodonga, 5874, 17.8 per cent Benalla, 1915, 16.0 per cent

Estimated number and percentage of Victorian adults who currently vape by LGA. Victoria, 311524, 6.1 per cent Wangaratta, 1155, 4.9 per cent Alpine, 455, 4.2 per cent Indigo, 579, 4.2 per cent Strathbogie, 366, 3.9 per cent Wodonga, 2170, 6.6 per cent Benalla, 561, 4.7 per cent

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Cut the casual approach to driving WHILE it was pleasing to hear the Wangaratta region made it through the Christmas/New Year period unscathed on our roads, alarming trends continued to persist.

Raw data may not have been collected over a heavy 20-day police enforcement period, but it was disappointing to hear observations of low-level speeding and drink and drug driving offences continued to occur on local roads.

Especially in times like Christmas, New Year and the upcoming Australia Day long weekend, it’s simply unacceptable to approach driving in a casual way that could affect the lives of not only others but your own.

That being said, no major or fatal collisions occurred throughout the area during one of the year’s busiest times on our roads, which is a testament to enforcement and the majority of the community to adhering to warnings.

While last year’s road toll didn’t reach the extreme heights set in 2023 overall, it’s concerning to see the number of single fatal collisions occurring on our roads had in fact risen.

Although not as many lives were lost, it’s clear habits of our drivers continue to trend towards those that are consistent with what police data has seen as the cause of many fatalities on local roads last year.

The responsibility to buck this trend falls on everyone on our roads, from enforcement to those behind the wheel, riding the bike and even walking across the road.

It won’t be long before road safety will again come close to the community’s attention as police prepare for the Australia Day weekend Operation Amity.

CROSSWORD NATIONAL CROSSWORDPUZZLE 14359 1

2

3

4

5

9 11

12

13

7

16 18

17

19 22

21

24

25

23

26

27

29 32

30

41

2

11

15

3

4 36

38

39

12

13

42 18

9

5

28

31

34

33

NATIONAL CROSSWORD

1 35

8

14

15

20

6

10

14359 6

7

37 8

10 40 14

43

16

17

19

ACROSS 7 Positive pole ACROSS point (init) 22 58Compass 23 21 (mus) 120Slowly Command Mineral (mus) spring 10Pondering Mad 1524Slowly 6 25 26 27 28 Captive Exclude 5119Mineral 712 pole Worship spring 13Positive Blush 29 30 31 Roman emperor Gone by 914Captive 815Command 1532Balks 33 1734 Bodies of water 11 Worship 10 Mad 16 Not working 21 Was concerned 1835Resting 14 Romanplaces emperor 36 12 Exclude 22 Place for pigs 37 19 At hand 23 Gallery of shops 15 Balks 38 hot liquid 13 Blush 39 20 Injure with 2640 Moves easily 16 Not working 15 Gone by 22 Hidden obstacle 27 Birds 2441Sailor 28 Ugly amphibian 18 Resting compound places 17 Bodies of water 25 Chemical 29 Bronzed metallic ware 42 43 19 At hand 21 Was concerned 27 Raining 31 Exaggerate 29 Merely 32 Come the egg 20 Injure with hot liquid 22 Placefrom for ACROSS 7 Positive polepigs 30 Procession of carriages 33 Radiolocation Slowly 8 Command 22 Hidden(mus) obstacle 23 Gallery fully of shops 321 German title of respect 34 Satisfies Mineral spring 10 345 Rescue 37 Mad Slippery 24 Sailor 26 Moves catches easily Captive 12 Exclude 359 First man 11 Numbed Worship 13 Blush 25 Chemical compound 27 Birds 36 Solution No.14359 14Prescribed Roman emperor 15 Gone by 38 amount 27 Raining 28 Ugly amphibian 15Concise Balks 17 Bodies of water 40 16Grow Not working 21 Was concerned 29 Merely 29 Bronzed metallic 41 together 18Regret Resting places 22 Place for pigs 42 30 Procession of ware 19Marital At handpartner 23 Gallery of shops 43 20carriages Injure with hot liquid 26 Moves easily 31 Exaggerate 22 Hidden obstacle 27 Birds DOWN 32 title of 32 Come from the egg 24 German Sailor 28 Ugly amphibian 2 Expensive 25 Chemical compound 29 Bronzed metallic ware respect 33 Radiolocation 3 Be abject 27 Raining 31 Exaggerate 4 Lays bare 29 Merely 32 Come from the egg 34 Rescue 34 Satisfies fully 5 Compass point (init) 30 Procession of carriages 33 Radiolocation 35 First man 37 Slippery catches 6 Pondering 32 German title of respect 34 Satisfies fully 34 Numbed Rescue 37 Slippery catches 36 35 First man 38 amount SOLUTION 36 Prescribed Numbed Solution No.14359 38 Concise Prescribed amount 40 40 Concise 41 together 41 Grow Grow together 42 Regret Regret 42 43 Marital partner 43 Marital partner

A D A G I O S P A O E R P R I S O N E R A D O R E N E R O D I D L E P R E V E N T S B E D S A N E A R A S N A G K S C A L D T A R E S T E R W E T R O N L Y C O R S O I S A V E A H E R R D E A D E N E D A D A M D O S E T E R S E T C O A L E S C E D L H R U E S P O U S E

A D A G I O S P A O E R P R I S O N E R A D O R E N E R O D I D L E P R E V E N T S B E D S A N E A R A S N A G K S C A L D T A R E S T E R W E T R O N L Y C O R S O I S A V E A H E R R D E A D E N E D A D A M D O S E T E R S E T C O A L E S C E D L H R U E S P O U S E

DOWN

2 Expensive DOWN 3 Be abject 2 4Expensive Lays bare 3 56BeCompass abjectpoint (init) Pondering 4 Lays bare

SUMMER FUN: Nelly Longok, Holly Brownlie, Blake Brownlie and Bonnie Longok made the most of the school holidays, having a splash at the

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Frank Garth Reserve on Wednesday afternoon.

Wonderful New Year’s Eve celebrations CONGRATULATIONS to Rural City of Wangaratta Council on organising the New Year’s Eve community celebration at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

How wonderful to be amongst such a happy crowd of people.

Families, children, teenagers, parents and grandparents all having a great time singing and dancing.

The management of the event including security and traffic management ensured safety to all those who attended.

And of course the entertainment.

I have heard some criticism of the line up but to all you keyboard warrior whingers out there, Joe Camilleri has still “got it” and knows how to work the crowd and keep everyone happy.

Jane Baker, Wangaratta

Make fire safety a priority this summer WITH warmer weather and dry conditions upon us, it’s vital that everyone takes steps to protect themselves, their families, and their properties from the risk of bushfires and grassfires.

I encourage local residents to prepare fire plans, clear vegetation around homes, and stay updated on local fire warnings.

The CFA has a range of tips for residents, including: • Leave early on hot, dry, windy days if the fire danger rating is extreme or catastrophic.

• Understand your risk and plan ahead.

Tell your family and friends when you will leave, where you’ll go and how you will get there.

• Do not wait for an official warning

before you leave as there may not be one.

• Decide early what you will do with your pets and horses on hot, dry, windy days.

• If you are travelling, check the conditions for your destination and any areas you will travel through before you go. Listen to local radio for warnings and advice while you’re on the road.

You can phone the VicEmergency Hotline (1800 226 226) and visit www. emergency.vic.gov.au to download the VicEmergency App. Find more information at https://www. cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-toprepare-your-property Gaelle Broad, Nationals’ MP for Northern Victoria

Common sense must prevail on gas THE UK Labour Government has this week dropped proposals to force households to replace gas hot water boilers with electric heaters as recognition that such draconian approaches impose high costs, and do not enjoy public support.

This is a victory for common sense, and we call on the Victorian Labor Government to follow the lead of their UK counterparts and abandon its increasingly madcap push to ban the replacement of gas hot water and heating appliances.

The fact is that while electrification may be sensible for some, for many of the two million Victorian households and businesses which use gas, forced electrification will impose significant out of pocket costs while driving up gas and electricity prices for everyone else and putting more pressure on an already struggling electricity network.

The high cost of these impacts cannot be ignored given it has now been independently confirmed by research just released by Professor Paul Simshauser and his team at Griffith University.

Ross Jamieson, Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association of Australia (GAMAA) president

Getting home safely from the races A NEW campaign is being rolled out across regional Victoria, encouraging Victorians to get home safely from country races.

The Transport Accident Commission’s ‘Ready’ campaign with Country Racing Victoria highlights the risks associated with driving to and from races when alcohol is involved.

This year’s campaign follows a tragic year on Victoria’s roads in 2024, with 282 lives lost compared with 295 in 2023.

More than half of the fatalities in 2024 occurred in regional areas.

The campaign will be prominent in the run-up to country race events across Victoria - including Wangaratta’s Summer race Day on Thursday, February 6 - to highlight the various transport options available to those attending regional events, such as taxis, rideshares and shuttle buses.

The TAC will be present at more than 20 Country Cups, where punters will have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win $500 fuel vouchers and learn about the dangers of drink-driving.

For more information on the campaign, visit the TAC website: tac.vic.gov.au/ country-racing-victoria.

Melissa Horne, Minister for Roads and Road Safety

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

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 9

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

FACEBOOK users this week commented on Monday’s wet weather following the city’s hottest weekend in almost four years.

Leslie Matthews: It always rains after a dry spell.

Nicki Jory: Cindy Knight it still amazes me how it can be hot in summer imagine how it was back then when there was no air con...

Cindy Knight: Nicki Jory yeah I know And ppl complain about today’s heat with air con Facebook users this week also commented on a car

• • •

towing a caravan which crashed and rolled over on the Snow Road near Oxley on Sunday afternoon.

Courtney Davern: Audrey Timms Skylar Davern everyone was ok!

Facebook users this week also commented on Wangaratta experiencing stable residential growth and sustained development in the commercial sector last year.

Shaz Petersen: About time they did something about it go builders

•

•

full •Facebook userswethisareweek Terry Davern:

also commented on the Wangaratta Chronicle’s year in review.

Leslie Matthews: The favorite pastime of so many, looking back.

Facebook users this week also commented on forecasts and heat warnings for last weekend’s hot weather.

Andrew Meloury: Gee groundbreaking a four year record Facebook users this week

• •

commented on a wine body supporting calls for better gateway signage at King Valley to accompany abstract sculpture ‘Bubbles in the landscape’.

Shaz Petersen: Haha Leslie Matthews: If it’s not provoking commentary it’s not art. Clearly this is Kim Michelini: Leslie Matthews your right. It’s not art Leslie Matthews: Kim Michelini Obviously it is because you deemed ‘It’ worthy of comment .

•• • •

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

15,107

Tweet X USERS this week tweeted about a local musician launching his new single, a Wangaratta galloper, and this week’s cattle sale.

wangarattasportsaquatic

Follow

Bush Nippers! Lifesavings Victoria’s water safety program will boost your child’s confidence in open water environments.

This program is a fantastic way to build water safety skills in our very own Ovens (Torryong) River.

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

RIFF – Music @MrRiffMusic Vine Hotel, Wangaratta - SINGLE LAUNCH TOUR RSVP here: https://www.mrriffmusic.com/event-details/vinehotel-wangaratta-single-launch-tour Gundagai Races @gundagairaces Andrew Dale claimed the 2025 Adelong Cup with Copperfield. Ridden by Pierre Boudvillain, the Wangaratta galloper fought hard to defeat the John Rolfe-trained Off Shaw (Sinead Peebles) by a head, while in third was the Neil Osborne-trained Call Me Artie (James Innes Jnr).

The Weekly Times @theweeklytimes Light steers again broke the 500c/kg mark at Wangaratta on Wednesday as buyers continued to bid on cattle across all weight ranges. See the latest from our coverage >>> http://bit.ly/3DJYcI4

David Art @davidarttt How awesome is this mural by Julian Clavijo, located in Wangaratta, Victoria

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

Upgrade to the Apricus All-in-One Heat Pump & Start Saving Today! 

CUT YOUR ENERGY BILLS Save up to 75% on water heating costs!



RELIABLE HOT WATER Get dependable performance in all weather.



ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTION Reduce your carbon footprint with advanced efficiency.



BUILT FOR AUSTRALIA Durable and tough for harsh conditions.



WE HANDLE EVERYTHING From delivery to full installation!

UPGRADE NOW & START SAVING $$$$!

Call for more information or visit our website!

(03) 5722-9896 www.OBRIENSPLUMBING.com.au

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

State water police called to more than 100 incidents in a week

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

THE Water Police Squad is issuing a water safety warning ahead of the weekend as figures show the unit has been called to more than 100 incidents across the state in the first week of 2025.

During the same time last year there were 17 incidents, while the year before 36 were recorded over the period.

Police said many of this year’s callouts have related to

dangerous jet ski behaviour including speeding, travelling too close to other swimmers and in some cases even collisions with other vessels.

On Sunday, January 5, Victoria Police and NSW Police were required to respond to an incident at Lake Mulwala which hospitalised three people, including two children.

NSW officers were told a boat towing a ski biscuit came around a bend and the inflatable crashed into a sta-

tionary fishing boat.

A 34-year-old man and a 10-year-old girl were airlifted to Melbourne hospitals, both in a serious but stable condition while an eightyear-old boy was taken to Wangaratta Hospital.

Police also responded to serious collisions in Rye, Parkdale Beach and Safety Beach last weekend.

With maximum temperatures in the low 30s predicted by the Bureau of Meteorol-

ogy for Wangaratta and surrounds this weekend, police are urging vessel operators to take extra care with significant crowds expected both inland and along the coast.

Water police will have a presence at key areas and beaches with officers also to patrol inland areas including Lake Eildon.

Water Police Squad Inspector James Dalton said vessel operators can expect to be breath tested,

have their marine licences checked, and vessels inspected for the mandatory safety equipment such as lifejackets, torches and fire extinguishers.

“While most people do the right thing, there are some who show blatant disregard for the safety of other water users,” he said.

“Water police will continue to patrol the state’s waterways this summer, but vessel operators need to take

VISITOR INFO POP-UP ASSISTS ENQUIRIES

Benalla presents Creating Community Connections Expo 2025 next month

By SIMONE KERWIN A POP-UP Visitor Information Centre operated in the Reid Street Kiosk over the festive period, drawing a range of enquiries from visitors and locals.

The pop-up is introduced at peak times, including Easter, jazz festival weekend and Christmas, to support visitors during times when the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre - where the regular kiosk is located - cannot be accessed.

It supplements the main accredited Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre at the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub in Glenrowan.

Over the festive period, the team at the Reid Street kiosk spoke with about 211 visitors and locals.

Enquiries leading up to the New Year related to water-based activities such as swimming holes and camping and fishing spots, as well as the rural city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

King Valley and the Milawa Gourmet Region were popular

SEEKING TO CELEBRATE: Enquiries to a pop-up visitor information centre in the Reid Street Kiosk over the festive period included those seeking information about the Rural City of Wangaratta’s successful New Year’s Eve celebrations held at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

PHOTO: Amanda Chrystal over the festive season, with many people seeking to enjoy local produce and wines.

Visitors travelling with their furry companions enquired about places to stay, dine and camp with their four-legged family members.

Walking and cycling tracks were also in demand, with many

people perhaps wanting to kick off the New Year in a healthy way with some exercise.

Those with young families sought advice about activities to enjoy with children, with Myrrhee’s Brookfield Maze, and attractions at Glenrowan among the favoured choices.

For those seeking assistance,

WEEKLY DRAW TUESDAY 14TH JANUARY 2025 www.corcoranparker.com.au

Justin Keane: 0427 927 500 Reiley Murtagh: 0455 550 625 Henry Dundas: 0428 573 109 Tim Donald: 0429 707 248 Brady Purcell: 0437 611 615

1. ELD 2. NTR 3. AWN 4. CP

jkeane@corcoranparker.com.au rmurtagh@corcoranparker.com.au

Harvey Benton: 0407 265 240 Barry Sessions: 0429 928 220 Laurie Purcell: 0458 577 201

Gordon Perkins: 0439 662 030 Shawn Spooner: 0427 652 439 Harris Doodewaard: 0408 851 333

"Experience and Reputation"

some responsibility for their own behaviour and safety, because we can’t be everywhere at once.

“People need to remember that a split-second decision can have lifelong consequences.”

On top of patrols, the squad will also be running several targeted operations over the summer season to target rogue jet ski riders both on the water and at ramps.

the Wangaratta Visitor Information Kiosk is regularly available in the WPACC from 10am to 2pm.

The main Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre at Glenrowan’s Ned Kelly Discovery Hub opens seven days a week from 10am to 4pm (closed Christmas Day and Good Friday).

THE Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) is gearing up for an exciting and inclusive event – the Creating Community Connections Expo 2025 - set to take place on Friday, February 21 at the Benalla Showgrounds and Lakeside Community Centre from 3pm to 7pm.

The free, family-friendly event offers a unique platform for local community groups, organisations, and residents to come together, share their passions and foster meaningful connections.

The expo will feature a variety of stalls, interactive activities and live entertainment, making it a dynamic and fun-filled afternoon for attendees of all ages.

Community groups and organisations are encouraged to participate by showcasing their work, engaging with others, and inspiring collaboration.

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for stallholders are open now and will close on Sunday, February 9.

For more information or to submit an expression of interest, please visit www. benalla.vic.gov.au/siag.

Sam’s off to Princeton Uni Friday, January 9, 2015

By CAITLIN SARTORI COMING home during holidays to the family property at Killawarra holds fond memories for former Geelong Grammar student Sam Parsons.

But the 2014 graduate now has America in his sights, after he was accepted into Princeton University in New Jersey for five years with the hopes to major in Economics.

Humble with every word, Sam explained the acceptance had come after hundreds of hours studying while maintaining other school activities including the school captain role and an extensive involvement in rowing.

He undertook international baccalaureate (IB) studies with the option of studying abroad, and discovered this week he had received a perfect score of 45/45.

It equates to a perfect Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of 99.95.

He boarded at Geelong Grammar since year seven, and said living away from home for five years would

10 years ago

KILLAWARRA TO AMERICA: Spending family time at their Killawarra home this week was (from left) Emma Williamson, former Geelong Grammar student Sam Parsons with sister Liv Parsons, and Simon Williamson.

PHOTO: Caitlin Sartori not faze him.

“I’ve always been grateful to have a rural connection, I would come home to tranquility,” Sam said.

“But for me, going to live in America will be the same magnitude as going to boarding school, the only difference will be the time difference.

“It might make me more attentive to Facebook and Skype when contacting home,” he laughed.

“I don’t consider myself to be leaving Australia for good, I hope to learn what I can and

bring it back here.”

Mother, Emma Williamson, said her and husband Simon Williamson were extremely proud of his achievements.

“Sam has worked so hard with his huge workload; he’s managed to juggle his rowing, being school captain and his IB,” Mrs Williamson said.

“He’s just put his mind to it and done it while managing extreme responsibility in his life.”

Younger sister, Liv Parsons, attends school at Galen Catholic College.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 11

wangarattachronicle.com.au

FRIENDS: Sam and Mary La Spina.

CATCHING UP: Lynn Petersen, Lee Sinclair and Karen Matthews.

LOVE: Jack and Rose Frasca who have FRIENDS: Pat Delmastro and Kevin Wyllie. been married for 74 years.

MILESTONE BIRTHDAY: Jack Frasca celebrated his 99th birthday surrounded by friends and family.

FAMILY: (Back, from left) Adam Petersen, Varina Petersen, Carl Watts, Kade Petersen, Tom Hunt, Pip Else Lyn Petersen; (middle) Ayla Petersen.

Rose Frasca; (front, from left) John Frasca, Jack Frasca and Jo Frasca.

CELEBRATING JACK: (From left) Kade Petersen, Rose Frasca, Rose Frasca, Carl Watts celebrated with (front) Jack Frasca.

Family, friends helped Jack celebrate his 99th birthday A

GROUP of 60 friends and family gathered in Wangaratta last Saturday to help Jack (Gaudenzio) Frasca celebrate his 99th birthday.

Jack’s daughter Jo Frasca said her father arrived in Melbourne on April 4, 1933, aged seven, with his mother Lucia, both unable to speak English.

They were reunited with Jack’s father Giovanni who travelled to Australia in September 1926 to make a life for his wife and child.

The family who’s farm the Frasca’s worked on helped keep Jack, baby John and their parents out of an internment camps, where some Italians were kept during World War Two due to their country’s alliance with Germany.

As soon as Jack became of age, he left school to contribute to the family - he hunted, fished and got any worked he could, and joined in the hard toil with his parents as to-

bacco share farmers.

Eventually, the family decided to leave the Myrtleford area, and the land, after many failed crops.

Moving to Corowa the family bought the Golden Key Cafe in 1946, and Jack worked there, and went hay bailing between September and May. In 1950 the family sold the café and moved to a house they had purchased in Wangaratta.

Jack and John developed their hay bailing business hiring people to work with them.

While living in Corowa Jack met his wife of 74 years, Rose Wortham.

They were married 1951 and lived for a time in Melbourne.

At that time Jack drove the tramway buses and Rose worked at Eclipse Radio.

Eventually they moved back to Wangaratta and had four children - Pip, Lyn, Jo and John (dec).

After hay bailing in summer and

working in Bogong and the Snowy Mountain Scheme in winter, they brought their farm in Myrrhee in 1952, where Jack and his brother John and their families stayed until 1998.

Jack was very active in the community and was instrumental in working toward the rural area of Myrrhee obtaining electricity and was the president of the Myrrhee Progress Association.

I

n 1964 Jack bought their first petrol tanker, which was the beginning of a burgeoning trucking business.

He was also instrumental and active in the construction of the Myrrhee Hall and was the chairman of the hall committee, also donating significant materials for the construction of the hall.

He was the growers representative on the Victorian Tobacco Stabilisation Board, giving all growers

quotas and thereby stabilising the industry - and went on to be president of the Victorian Tobacco Growers Association.

In 1987 Jack was recognised for his work and significant contribution on the Tobacco Leaf Marketing Board (from 1971 to 1987).

At this point he had been involved in the tobacco industry since 1938.

For many years Jack also held the position of president of the Hop Growers Association in the 80s and helped implement many initiatives for the growth and benefit of hop growers in North East Victoria.

One of Jack’s greatest passions and achievements was the Boggy Creek Dam Project.

After years of work the dam finally opened in September 1972 and still operates today.

After selling the farm in 1998, and thinking he was going to re-

tire, Jack started a very successful steel and rubber business in Wangaratta, selling Frasca Steel and Rubber in 2017.

For the entirety of his working life Jack and his brother John worked together, until they both retired in 2017 at 92 years and 84 respectively.

Another community contribution Jack has made was that he regularly sponsored and was financial grantor for many migrant families starting business in Victoria, especially the North East region.

He was a keen horse rider and one year won the Golden Spurs at the Myrtleford Rodeo.

Jack and Rose regularly set off in their caravan, doing their first trip around Australia in 1962 in a plywood caravan.

Over the ensuing years they did a total of 24 trips seeing most of Australia.

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Marcus lends filmmaking skills for community benefit

By SIMONE KERWIN LENDING a hand to prepare a virtual reality video promoting careers in the rural health sector has added another string to Marcus Davidson’s media skills bow.

The local resident, who graduated from year 12 at Galen Catholic College in 2024, took up the challenge of creating a VR video for Melbourne University which explores a day in the life of an occupational therapist.

Galen’s careers and further education coordinator, Peter Girolami, said the link came about after a conversation with Melbourne University researcher Kristen Glenister about the university’s program during the Careers in Health Expo held at CSU Tone Road.

“Melbourne Uni were there with their VR headset, and Kristen asked if I knew any students who could help them with the filming,” Peter said.

“I organised them to come to Galen to meet a few students, they explained what they needed, and Marcus and a few students were keen.

“After that, Marcus met with them, did the filming and interviewing and came up with the final product.”

Marcus said work on the project began in August, and continued through his VCE exams.

“I did five interviews with firstyear occupational therapy students from Deakin and Melbourne

A DIFFERENT VIEW: Marcus Davidson (centre) with Kristen Glenister and Tegan Podubinski from Melbourne University Department of Rural Health, and Galen Catholic College student Max Sampson, who tried out the virtual reality video prepared by Marcus for the university. and students at Galen in December, and will now be used to encourage students to pursue rural health pathways for their future careers.

Marcus said he was pleased to be able to assist in something which could benefit the community, and to boost his experience as he follows his own pathway

unis, with third-year students, and with someone who has been working in OT for 20 years,” he said.

“I ended up with 400 to 500 gigabytes of data.

“I had never edited with VR before, so it was something new, and it took two weeks to edit.”

The film was launched for staff

towards a career in filmmaking.

He plans to take a gap year in 2025 and develop a concept for a short film, and then hopes to study film and television at Deakin.

“Now that I know how to work with VR, I might do more of it in the future, but for now I think I’ll focus on 2D footage,” he said.

Bunnings thief warned jail time could be on the horizon A WANGARATTA man caught stealing from Bunnings Warehouse Wangaratta has been warned to stop offending or risk jail time.

Pleading guilty and representing himself at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week, the court heard that patrolling police officers observed the defendant entering the warehouse on November 13.

As a recognised past offender, police followed the man into the store and were allowed access to the store’s CCTV room to observe him.

He was seen purchasing a fly swatter before leaving the store and heading towards his vehicle.

Police followed the man where he was seen placing an unknown item underneath his car.

He was then arrested after officers found $88 worth of unpaid items, including a polishing compound, two screwdrivers and a testing bottle.

Magistrate Ian Watkins issued a $500 fine, noting the offending had occurred within a month of the defendant being charged for separate drug and theft matters.

“You’re going to end up in jail pretty soon if you keep this up,” he said.

“If you’re going shopping at Bunnings again or anywhere else for that matter, make sure you pay.”

SOUTH AMERICA 22

DAYS

EXCLUSIVE LOCALLY ESCORTED TOUR Health & Wellbeing Winter 2024 - Page 1

nemedia.com.au

Health & Wellbeing Spring 2024 - Page 19

nemedia.com.au

AUTUMN 2024

WINTER 2024

SPRING 2024

Departs: 2nd October 2025

Fuel your body

Discover natural methods

Manage your stress

Naturopathic solutions

Organic options

Quality disability care

Winter Edition Friday 13th June 2025

Summer Edition Friday 12th December 2025

GET SEEN IN THE HEALTH & WELLBEING FEATURE Contact our features coordinator Luke for more information.

• • • •

Amazon jungle Machu Pichu Cuzco Puno to Lake Titikaka

• • • •

Rio De Janerio Iguazu Falls Buenos Aires Santiago

ES

R - JO CO D

ELL E G R I

Spring Edition Friday 5th September 2025

P IE

Autumn Edition Friday 14th March 2025

This trip of a Lifetime includes the following destinations with a range of cultural tastes and experiences.

T LOCAL

Know the signs

O N

Staying active

Living independently

TICK OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST WITH THE AMAZING FULLY IMMERSIVE SOUTH AMERICAN ADVENTURE.

COST INCLUDING FLIGHTS & VISAS EX ALBURY FROM

21,490*

$

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

e: lsutton@nemedia.com.au | ph: (03) 5723 0128 PACKAGE OPTIONS AVAILABLE Helloworld Travel Albury Dean St P: (02) 6021 7933 E: albury@helloworld.com.au Helloworld Travel Wangaratta Murphy St P: (03) 5721 5888 E: wangaratta@helloworld.com.au Helloworld Travel Wodonga High St P: (02) 6024 7655 E: wodonga@helloworld.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 13

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

Surviving the scorching summer

By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS WHILE people can escape the summer scorchers by returning to air-conditioned comfort, spare a thought for our wildlife that are facing increasingly intense summer extremes.

Though much of our local wildlife is adapted to live in the warm and dry environment that is summer in the North East, extreme temperatures and hot gusty winds, especially over prolonged periods, can make life difficult for many of our local critters.

During the peak of summer, many birds and other animals actively look for places to have a drink and cool off.

In the bush, these places could be forest dams or remnant pools in drying gullies, but in the garden these refuges could be well-placed bird baths or small ponds.

Providing water sources for birds can be one of the most useful and important things you can do this summer to help our feathered friends beat the heat.

Refuges need not be too elaborate - a simple heavy dish or saucer can do the trick - but there are a few key things to keep in mind to maximise their effectiveness and the safety and wellbeing of birds.

No matter what size garden or property you have, providing multiple water points of different types and in varying positions will give birds options as to where they want to visit.

If one water point is too busy or dominated by bigger bossy species, smaller birds might take the option of visiting an alternative spot.

It is usually a good idea to position water points in the shade, or at least in dappled shade or where they will receive some respite from the sun in the hottest parts of the day. This will allow visiting birds to cool off in the

water then perch and preen in the shade whilst they are relatively cool and fresh.

Varying the depth of water is also important.

Most standard ‘bird baths’ are too deep but placing a rock or three in the bath will give birds choices as to how deep they want to stand whilst having a drink or a splash. Some birds can drown in deep water by not being able to get out whilst their feathers are wet and heavy, so having rock ‘steps’ or sticks and perches emerging from the water can be an important lifeline.

Having perches close to water

TAKING A PLUNGE: A male Hooded Robin enjoys a cool splash in a spring-fed rock pool in the Warby Range. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond).

points is also a good idea as it allows birds to fly in from nearby vegetation and assess the water and the surrounds for safety.

However, remember that predators such as cats can take advantage of dense cover close to water as they know that birds will visit.

Positioning water points on a pedestal of sorts can help alleviate this problem.

If you know that some aggressive birds will visit your water points, protecting water points with wire mesh can give smaller birds the opportunity to drink and bath without being

bothered by bigger ones who can’t fit through the wire openings.

Given that birds both drink and bath from water points, it is important to replenish water often and clean out water points regularly.

Having birds visit water is also a good opportunity for you to observe your local feathered friends with minimal effort.

Enjoying a morning cuppa or afternoon refreshment on a seat overlooking a water point often brings the reward of having some close and personal encounters with birds of many different species.

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

 GAS, flames, action: No it wasn’t the scene of a movie set, but rather local firefighters simulating a major gas fire, in the safe surrounds of the Wangaratta facility that has helped train up to 2000 emergency service members each year.

The CFA’s Stewart Kreltszheim (left) and David Maxwell were among those kitted up in ‘retro’ 1980s CFA uniforms, entertaining hundreds of onlookers, to help mark the 40th anniversary of Wangaratta’s Victoria Emergency Management Training Centre (VEMTC) on Saturday. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

October Wednesday, October 2 ‘Ruthless’ burglary SESSIONS Asphalt in Wangaratta has been left gutted this week as burglars broke in and stole around $400,000 worth of machinery and equipment.

Business owner David Sessions said at around 4:30am on Sunday, September 29, his Gibson Street business was targeted by balaclavawearing thieves.

Friday, October 4 After-dark shift WANGARATTA’S weekend nightclub scene is set for a shift over coming months, with Murphy Street’s Grand Central Hotel closed for renovations until at least early December.

The hotel - affectionately known as The GC - held its ‘last call’ on Saturday before the lengthy break, with owner Steve Wilson now preparing for the venue’s first major renovation since 1994.

Monday, October 7 No water woes WATER restrictions are not expected for Wangaratta this summer as local water storage levels have remained stable despite significantly below average rainfall for the year.

North East Water (NEW) general manager environment, systems and operations, John Day, said NEW is currently preparing its summer water outlooks, which assess each water supply system in the region.

Wednesday, October 9 Mental support THIRTY-two mental health first aid scholarships are set to be made available to local small to medium businesses, in the first on-the-ground use of funds raised by Wangaratta initiative Project 365.

The scholarship program will be launched at tomorrow’s Grit and Resilience Festival Celebrating headspace Day, to be held in Wangaratta’s King George Gardens from 4pm to 6.30pm, where members of Project 365 will also perform.

Friday, October 11 Project concerns FIVE objections have been received to a planning permit for the Wangaratta Creative Precinct project, including three from neighbouring properties - St Patrick’s Catholic parish, St Catherine’s Wangaratta, and St Patrick’s Primary School.

These three parties say while they do not object to development of the subject site, where council plans to ‘reimagine the co-development’ of the Wangaratta Art Gallery, Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre (WPACC) and Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre, they do have concerns about aspects of the proposal.

Monday, October 14 Flow of discontent RESIDENTS on the Ovens River in Markwood are waiting for the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) to address problems of erosion which they say it promised to do over 20 years ago.

Heather and Terry Greaves live on a 162acre property along the Pioneer Reach of the mid-Ovens River, upstream of Wangaratta - a stretch which suffered a major river outbreak in 2016 following public works undertaken by NECMA as part of the Markwood Deep Creek Management Scheme.

Wednesday, October 16 Healthy bed boost THE Victorian Government is going to help fund more accommodation for healthcare workers at Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW).

Premier Jacinta Allan last Friday confirmed Wangaratta’s public hospital was among 20 successful applicants from across the state that will receive funding through the first round of the Victorian Government’s $150 million Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

 Peking Duk’s Reuben Styles (left) and Adam Hyde embrace Cathedral College year 10 student Kai McPhan as they fulfilled his deal of a lifetime to perform at Kai’s school formal on Thursday night.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers ($675 million) of the investment put into crumbling regional roads.

Monday, October 21 Council asked to object over Meadow Creek solar proposal

cent) and Strathbogie (123.1 per cent), whose median home prices have more than doubled since 2014.

Wednesday, October 30 Bystanders help save Wangaratta man’s life

AN objection will be lodged against the Meadow Creek Solar Farm by the Rural City of Wangaratta Council if councillors move a motion recommending it on Tuesday night.

A recommendation to make a submission to the Department of Transport and Planning objecting to the issue has been made by a council planning department officer on the basis the development is not located in a suitable location.

HEROIC acts by a handful of bystanders at a Moyhu crash helped saved the life of a young Wangaratta man.

Dylan Fordham, 22, remains in an induced coma at the Royal Melbourne Hospital after he was airlifted in a critical condition from a crash on Glenrowan-Moyhu Road, about 2.30pm on Saturday.

Wednesday, October 23 Peking Duk on menu

Friday, November 1 Music to our city’s ears

AUSSIE music duo Peking Duk is expected to spend some time in Wangaratta this week, courtesy of local teenager Kai McPhan.

The 15-year-old Cathedral College student, who emailed the group asking whether they would play at his party, was shocked earlier this month to see the ARIA Award-winning Canberra duo post his letter to their socials and ask followers whether they should, in fact, DJ at Kai’s event.

ACCOMMODATION is filling up, artists are on their way, and even the weather is in tune with an event weekend’s needs, as the Wangaratta district prepares for an influx of visitors and a significant boost to the local economy over coming days.

The four-day Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues kicks off tonight, while Tarrawingee’s Plough Inn will host its second annual Tarra Blues Fest over Saturday and Sunday, and a host of other complementary events are set to lend a real festival feel to the Rural City of Wangaratta’s pre-Melbourne Cup weekend.

Monday, November 11 Taking a stand

Monday, November 4 Blown away

A SENSELESS killing of a beloved pet alpaca has a local family searching for answers to their grief as police investigate.

Alan and Kim Sturzaker found their 15-year-old pet ‘Honey’ fatally shot on their Rose River property last Sunday morning.

Friday, October 25 Folk festival confirmed THE Folk Rhythm and Life Festival at Eldorado will be held this December after plans were extinguished in 2023 due to planning permit issues.

About 65 bands will perform at the Bilyana property in front of up to 3000 people on the weekend of December 6-8, an event that has attracted patrons from across Australia and the world.

Monday, October 28 Property prices doubled

HOUSING prices across Wangaratta Friday, October 18 have more than doubled over the past No quick fix here decade, rising from a median price of $253,500 in 2014 to $526,000 in June WANGARATTA won’t be included as of this year, according to Domain. part of the State Government’s major Wangaratta’s 107.5 per cent median road maintenance projects in its regional property price increase is part of Victorian blitz announced earlier in the a string of Victorian regional local week.

The State Government launched the government areas (LGAs), including $964 million road maintenance repairs Alpine (171.8 per cent), Mansfield program on Monday, with 70 per cent (107.4 per cent), Indigo (140.7 per

November

EXPECTATIONS were exceeded, as thousands of people soaked up the superb offering of music at various venues in the latest reincarnation of the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues over the weekend.

Festival committee chair Andrew Nunn said more than 2800 tickets had been sold up until Sunday morning, with further expected into the day of what had been a very successful rebirth of the festival, which in its 34 annual hosting was revived by a new board and band of volunteers keen to ensure last year’s festival was indeed not a ‘last hurrah’.

Wednesday, November 6 Take a walk LOSS of the carpark at the rear of the Wangaratta Art Gallery would be “a big

Back to School TRUSTED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FOR OVER 75 YEARS

blow” to users of the precinct, according to Wangaratta Senior Citizens Club president Michael Chambeyron.

The carpark, which senior citizens club members regularly utilise when attending events at their clubrooms in nearby Tara Court, is earmarked for removal as part of the council’s Wangaratta Creative Precinct project.

WANGARATTA

66-68 Murphy Street Phone (03) 5721 3458

Friday, November 8 Votes are in THE Rural City of Wangaratta Council for the next four years is starting to take shape, with Tania Maxwell and Dave Fuller joining unopposed candidates Irene Grant and Harry Bussell as the latest to be elected to their respective wards.

Both Ms Maxwell and Mr Fuller are in two-candidate wards and have received the required quota to be elected.

THE Centre Against Violence (CAV) in Wangaratta is making a bold call to action.

It is inviting 500 men from across the region to come together in Wangaratta next weeky and be part of a movement that will shape future generations of good men, breaking the cycles of violence and creating hope.

Wednesday, November 13 Who shot honey?

Friday, November 15 Smoke & mirrors DETAILS around the introduction of a new illicit tobacco sale regulator have been queried by local parliamentary figures as the State Government makes a move to stamp out illicit tobacco trade.

Premier Jacinta Allan announced on Tuesday the State Government would be introducing the toughest penalties for illicit tobacco trade in the country as a part of new legislation to be brought forward in parliament.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 15

wangarattachronicle.com.au

 ENTERTAINING: Three-time Aria award recipient Vince Jones, with his quintet, were indeed a highlight of the weekend’s festival.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

 ??????

 Ken Essenhigh polishes up his classic 1950 Holden FX for the Show ‘n’ Shine event at this Sunday’s Wangaratta Swap Meet at the Showgrounds.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Monday, November 18 Kindness through art

with all proceeds going to Little Wings.

Ever since 1980, boxes of cherries from around Australia have been judged and the winning box is auctioned off to different charities.

AN impressive pencil and charcoal drawing created by Wangaratta High School student Rosie Bulmer is set to be treasured at Illoura Residential Aged Care, after the teen presented it to residents as a gift of gratitude.

A year nine student at the high school, Rosie was involved in a volunteering project as part of the WHS Community Leadership Challenge (CLC) program, spending Wednesdays over a series of weeks among a group of 11 students who assisted residents at Illoura.

Friday, December 6 Hotspot to live WANGARATTA has emerged as the top regional growth hotspot in Australia according to the latest report that maps migration of Commonwealth Bank customers.

The report released by Regional Australia Institute shows that Rural City of Wangaratta’s net internal migration inflows increased by 592 per cent in the 12 months to September 2024, topping the list with other nearby municipalities Strathbogie fourth and Moira fifth nationally.

Wednesday, November 20 Energy hub push WANGARATTA-based Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines is continuing to pursue Local Energy Hubs in regional Australia, believing they are “the vital missing link” with communities, in the nation’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

She recently hosted a briefing in Canberra alongside Hunter MP Dan Repacholi, with industry stakeholders, discussing about where and how the hubs could be rolled out across Australia.

Friday, November 22 Back to basics NEWLY installed Mayor Irene Grant will pose a figure of stability as council lifts its focus on the core services of council in a tough economic climate.

The experienced mayor was elected 4-3 at Tuesday night’s special meeting after eventual Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton put forward her nomination.

Monday, November 25 Parking pickle ONE of the upcoming jobs of the new seven-member council will be to assess a review into paid parking in Wangaratta’s CBD, with free parking not off the table, according to Mayor Irene Grant.

She said the parking issue was a vexed one with commuters arguing that there’s never quite enough parking spaces or in the right location.

Wednesday, November 27 No slam dunk INTERNAL staffing issues and a pending sign off from privately

Monday, December 9 Fire services burnt out

 CHERRY ON TOP: Andrew Smith with a box of his cherries, produce from the same orchard that sold for a record $165,000 on Saturday to raise money for Little Wings charity.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling contracted fire safety engineers are the reasons given for a delay in the opening of the $12.9 million basketball stadium expansion in Wangaratta.

Wangaratta council showcased a preseason match between NBL teams South East Melbourne and Brisbane on the redeveloped show court at the stadium in late August attracting 1000 people, but since then the facility has been off limits until an occupancy permit is authorised.

Friday, November 29 On track to open before Christmas DESPITE heavy downpours this week the Green Street Bridge is on track to be completed by the week leading into Christmas with an exact date still elusive due to potential future impacts of weather on the schedule.

The total project is expected to be completed by March with the western carpark works and installation of pedestrian lifts giving access to the east and west platforms.

December Monday, December 2 Council woes WORKFORCE challenges and financial constraints experienced by Rural City of Wangaratta (RCOW) Council have been put in the spotlight by a Victorian local government inquiry report.

Chaired by Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell, the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee released its final report of a year-long inquiry into local government funding and services on Thursday, after extensive input from all 79 councils and other stakeholders such as ratepayers.

Wednesday, December 4 Cherry charity reaps $165,000 TAMINICK cherry grower Andrew Smith of Smith’s Fruit has sold a 5kg box of cherries for a record $165,000 at the annual Sydney Markets charity auction,

VOLUNTEER Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) District 23 president Garry Nash is calling for an inquiry into the state’s fire services following a damning report from the state monitor.

The Victorian fire services monitor Niall Blair recently released his report revealing systemic issues presenting as a significant barrier to progression of actions jointly led by CFA and FRV.

Wednesday, December 11 Grand access A GRAND Final Super Saturday will be staged on Wangaratta’s new $12.9 million basketball courts with council approving a Place of Public Entertainment (POPE) permit for another one-off event.

It will allow 17 grand finals to be played using three new courts from 12.30pm this Saturday, with contenders to be finalised after Wangaratta Basketball Association (WBA) wraps up its semi-finals on Wednesday night.

Friday, December 13 Road blitz is on LOCAL police are hoping to buck what’s been a “devastating” year on our roads throughout a festive season crackdown of reckless drivers in the region.

Operation Roadwise kicks off on Friday and will run until the new year in an extended 20-day period which will see police highly visible across the state’s major roads and arterials.

Back to School TRUSTED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FOR OVER 75 YEARS

WANGARATTA

66-68 Murphy Street Phone (03) 5721 3458

Monday, December 16 Prosecco road fizz on signage TOURISM operators in the upper King Valley say a lack of directional signage is making it difficult for visitors to find the wineries and attractions the region is famous for.

While the Rural City of Wangaratta’s recent installation of the “Bubbles on the landscape” sculpture at the intersection of the Snow and Wangaratta-Whitfield Roads in Oxley was intended to mark the gateway to the King Valley, the King Valley Tourism Association (KVTA) says there is nothing indicating drivers can find multiple cellar doors if they turn down the Wangaratta-Whitfield Road.

Wednesday, December 18 Growing pain NEARBY residents to a proposed 233-lot subdivision on Wangaratta’s Clarkes Lane are largely worried about the density of the proposed estate and the impact traffic will have on connecting roads.

The planning permit and a recycled water facility at Targoora Park has been referred to an independent planning panel to suggest recommendations for the project’s future following the submission of unresolved objections.

Friday, December 20 Over the Moon THERE is a Rural City of Wangaratta link to this week’s announcement of Federal Government funding for one of Australia’s most advanced robotics projects.

Former Galen Catholic College student Lachlan Carboon, the 2021 Rural City of Wangaratta Young Citizen of the Year, has been involved in the ELO 2 consortium’s successful bid to design and build Australia’s first lunar rover, nicknamed ‘Roo-ver’.

Friday, December 27 Busy year ahead A BUSY “forming time” for the new Rural City of Wangaratta council should have residents feeling positive as the city enters 2025, according to recentlyelected Mayor Irene Grant.

“I’m feeling very optimistic,” Cr Grant said.

Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Wandi Walk work in progress Alpine Shire Council is continuing to address the complex issue concerning public access

FINDING a solution to reopening the popular Wandiligong Walk remains a high priority for Alpine Shire Council in 2025.

Council confirmed late last year that the natural migration of Morses Creek has led to the Wandi Walk shifting, with parts of the creek and walk now traversing private land, with no Crown land available to support the existing alignment of the trail.

The walk has been closed since early last year after affected landowners exercised their rights to restrict public access across their private property.

Council said the situation presents significant challenges - involving Crown and private land ownership, historical public access, and the interests of multiple stakeholders and agencies - but

council “is committed to finding a resolution that balances these complexities”.

To ensure a thorough and transparent process, council is: • have an independent review of council’s work completed to date to verify the findings; • undertake a boundary establishment survey of relevant Crown land parcels;

• engage with NECMA and collaborate with all relevant agencies and stakeholders such as DEECA, to ensure all perspectives are considered; and • engage a land use specialist to develop and prioritise potential options for resolving the issue.

Council’s director of assets, Alan Rees, said once these steps are completed, council will de-

termine a preferred pathway forward.

“This is a challenging and sensitive situation, and council is dedicated to working collaboratively with all parties to achieve the best outcome for our community,” he said.

“We thank residents for their understanding and patience as we navigate this complex issue.”

Teen revived: drowning emergency at Bright riverside

By PHOEBE MORGAN

HOT SPOT: The Ovens River at Bright was a popular spot over the weekend as the region sweltered in the hottest days so far this summer.

Riverside goers are being cautioned to play it safe after a non-fatal drowning incident on Boxing Day. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

A TEENAGER remains in a critical condition in a Melbourne hospital after having being resuscitated after a drowning incident at Bright on Boxing Day. Authorities said the 17-year-old male was swimming in the Ovens River at Centenary Park in Bright on the afternoon of Thursday, December 26, when nearby swimmers found the teen submerged and unconscious in the river.

The youth was carried ashore and attended to by off-duty medical professionals who performed CPR until the ambulance arrived.

Bright SES unit controller, Graham Gales, said emergency service officers had to use the defibrillator on the drowning victim for a long time.

The patient was airlifted to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne where he was reported to remain in a critical condition.

Acting Senior Sergeant Luke Vogels of Bright police said the near fatal drowning incident was a sobering reminder for people to be swim-safe.

“Water safety is an ongoing concern for us,” he said.

“We want both holiday-makers and locals to have fun in the water, but above all to stay safe and know where your loved ones are at all times.”

Mr Gales said the incident reminds us all to be careful when spending time in rivers.

“Keep up to date with water safety practices: know the depth of water you’re going into, check the water current, keep an eye out for all members of your group, particularly the elderly and young kids and so on,” he said.

Emergency services to the rescue after trail tumble for mountain-biker in Bright

By PHOEBE MORGAN A MOUNTAIN biker rider required assistance from emergency services after falling off the Mystic Park Bike Trail in Bright over the festive period.

On Friday, December 27, a female cyclist in her 20s fell four metres off the trail and into scrubland.

Members of Bright SES, Ambulance Victoria, Bright police and the Porepunkah and Bright CFAs attended the scene.

“We were called at about 3:45pm to assist in the rescue of the cyclist,” said Bright SES controller, Graham Gales.

“We had to coordinate a high-angle rescue with ropes

to get her out,” he said.

The patient was assessed by Ambulance Victoria personnel at the scene and deemed to have no serious injuries.

SLID OFF THE SIDE: Members of the Bright SES and Ambulance Victoria coordinated to return the patient to a more accessible area.

Volunteer Grants support our local communities

INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR INDI

117 Murphy Street, Wangaratta

Expressions of Interest close on Friday 17 January 2025 for grants between $1,000 and $5,000.

Authorised by Helen Haines, 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677

03 5721 7077 79 High Street, Wodonga 02 6024 6284 helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au helehaines.org.au

Advertisement

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 17

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Harrietville’s rich Chinese past being unearthed in ongoing dig

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE AN ongoing archaeological dig on the outskirts of Harrietville is continuing to unearth the hidden secrets of a former Chinese mining village dating back to the 1860s.

Over four weeks in November and December, 40 archaeology students and enthusiasts, led by a team of archaeologists from The Uncovered Past Institute, combed the site off Bon Accord Track, to deepen their understanding of the Chinese miners who lived there from approximately 1860 to 1909.

According to the Institute’s president, Paul Macgregor, archaeology provides a unique window into the lives of Chinese gold miners, whose stories are otherwise hard to find in historical records.

“No map of the village was ever created at the time, and it was only a bushfire 25 years ago that revealed up to 25 distinct bench-flats cut into the hillside along the east branch of the Ovens River, on the outskirts of the modern town,” he said.

“Up to 100 Chinese miners may have lived in the village, with another 400 living in buildings dotted around the

WHAT LIES BENEATH?: It just looks like bushland, but this area off the Bon Accord Track is slowly revealing its secrets as home to Chinese miners for decades.

PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner DISCOVERING HISTORY: Participants and staff (pictured left) at one of the two building sites excavated at the Chinese mining village. valleys of the east and west branches of the Ovens River.

“So at least half of the mining population of the Harrietville area was Chinese in the 1860s. ”There were several Chinese stores in Harrietville, and at least one temple”.

The Institute has been excavating one of these benchflats since their seasons began in 2017.

More than 10,000 fragments of metal, ceramic, glass, clay, bone and wood have been identified so far, from the two buildings on the bench-flat.

“The finds suggest a comfortable and culturally diverse lifestyle, with food and provisions imported directly from China, complemented with locally purchased English and Australianmade food and goods,” Mr

Macgregor said.

“Brass trouser buttons and glass shirt buttons tell us that they wore European work clothes.

“They also smoked tobacco as well as opium, drank – and cooked with – European and Chinese liquor, served their food on British plates, but ate with chopsticks and ceramic spoons out of Chinese bowls.

“We have discovered no

metal forks or spoons, and none of the plates have scratches on them, so we can be confident that they did not adopt European eating practices.

“The discovery of small round glass tokens in black and white version also reveals the miners played a Chinese board game called wei kai, similar to draughts, but so far there has been no evidence of

gambling games.”

Four other digs were undertaken in October 2017, October 2019, October 2022 and January-February 2024.

The next dig at the Harrietville Chinese Mining Village will take place on November 18 to December 12, 2025.

For more information go to www.uncoveredpast.org. au.

FEASTIVAL Falls Creek is party time at resort FEASTIVAL Falls Creek is back for 2025.

With a mix of internationally renowned Aussie icons, North East local talent and some must-see rising stars, this event from February 28 to March 2 at Falls Creek Alpine Resorts is the event you won’t want to miss.

Saturday’s Feast de Resistance music event is set to ignite the stage with headliners The Cat Empire, known for their electrifying jazzy energy that will have everyone on their feet.

Joining them are Slowly Slowly and Budjerah, promising a stellar afternoon mix of pop, punk and indie rock.

Throughout the day, you’ll discover the next big names in music with acts like Azure Ryder, Eliza and the Delusionals, Dylan Wright and Gaudion.

Supporting this epic ensemble are a collection of the North East’s local talent including Ooz Music, Tahlia Brain, Zoe Neilson, Tash Poon and Kentone.

The excitement doesn’t stop at the music - with the weekend packed with a smorgasbord of activities, sights, eats and drinks.

Explore the Maker’s Markets, admire the art exhibition, groove to DJ sets, and rejuvenate with wellness

experiences like paint and sip, pilates, yoga, and sauna sessions.

There’s plenty for the little ones too, including circus workshops, arts and crafts and more.

Enjoy the Comedy Night, this year hosted by the iconic Man Hotel, featuring comedic geniuses Lizzy Hoo, Sam Taunton, Dilruk Jaysinha and Sez. You’ll be treated to the best food and drinks from the North East including the locally brewed Bright Brewery beers, Falls Creek’s very own Gin Distillery, the juiciest cuts from Albury’s Kennedy’s

meats plus so much more.

The early bird ticket sale ends today, January 10, with tickets to the main music event (Feast de Resistance) being $65 for adults, $30 for kids (12-17) and $10 for under 12s.

Sarah Watt, head of visitor experience at Alpine Resorts Victoria – Falls Creek, said the village cannot wait to host this line-up of incredible artists and a huge weekend of non-stop activity for everyone.

“It’s the perfect weekend to get a taste of our spectacular alpine environment and see what the North East has to offer,” she said.

FEASTIVAL: A sneak peak into what you can expect this 2025 from FEASTIVAL 2024.

PHOTO: Falls Creek Alpine Resort

Honda ZR-V pick of the bunch

■ STYLISH LOOK: The Honda ZR-V is a good-looker, in an understated way with its Maseratiinspired grille.

BY CHRIS RILEY, MARQUE MOTORING

Service is 12 months/10,000km and capped at $199 per visit.

YOU might think the ZR-V is the smallest of Honda’s SUVs but you’d be wrong because the latecomer actually slots between the HR-V and long-serving CR-V. It’s taken us a while to catch up with the ZR-V, but it has been worth the wait because ZR-V is the pick of the bunch.

SAFETY ZR-V unexpectedly scores a four-star safety for Australia, despite having 11 airbags, including frontcentre and driver’s knee airbag.

Apparently, a different front bumper beam is fitted to Australian vehicles, which affected test performance in some test impact locations.

While no observable effect on test performance was identified, ANCAP says Honda is yet to provide information as to why the additional beam has been excluded.

Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, driver attention monitoring, lane-keep assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, front and rear parking sensors, plus tyre pressure monitoring.

STYLING ZR-V is a good-looker, in an understated way with its Maseratiinspired grille.

Based on the Civic hatch, ZR-V is a five-seat, mid-sized, front-wheel drive crossover.

It’s available in three petrol-only grades plus a range-topping hybrid, petrol-electric version.

Prices start at $39,900 for the VTi X, followed by $43,400 for the VTi L, $49,900 for the VTi LX and $55,400 for the hybrid e:HEV LX. All prices are driveaway.

Our test vehicle was the ZR-V VTi LX priced at $49,900.

Standard kit includes 18-inch wheels, LED lights front and back, leather trim, dual-zone climate control, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, keyless entry and pushbutton start, walk-away door locking, power adjustment for the front seats, heated front and rear seats, plus heated steering wheel.

There’s also rear privacy glass, a frameless, an electric parking brake, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, traffic sign recognition, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors and a hands-free power tailgate.

A space saver spare is supplied in the event of a flat tyre.

ZR-V comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with 24/7 roadside assistance and five years of free access to Honda connected services for what it’s worth.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The 1.5-litre turbocharged fourcylinder petrol engine drives the front wheels through a CVT-style continuously variable automatic transmission.

It produces 131kW of power at 6000 rpm and 240Nm of torque between 1700 and 4500 rpm.

DRIVING It’s inoffensive, comfortable and easy to drive, and provides adequate accommodation for four adults - five at a pinch.

The cabin feels classy with soft-touch surfaces and a full-width mesh grille that hides the normally exposed front air vents.

Controls are simple and generally easy to use as we have come to expect from Honda over the years.

Physical buttons are offered to

AT A GLANCE Honda ZR-V VTi X .............................................................................$39,900 Honda ZR-V VTi L ..............................................................................$43,400 Honda ZR-V VTi LX ..........................................................................$49,900 Honda ZR-V e:HEV LX......................................................................$55,400 Note: These prices are drive-away SPECIFICATIONS (Honda ZR-V VTi LX 1.5-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon) the right side of the touchscreen for oft used functions, with other controls are located lower down for the air conditioning.

The instrument panel can be configured as dials or bars and you can select detailed information to display, but it lacks the bells and whistles of competitor systems.

The transmission supports manual gear changes, with change paddles and six steps or pseudo gears.

There are also three drive modes from which to choose: Eco, Normal and Sport, which are selfexplanatory.

Fuel consumption for this model is a claimed 7.2L/100km and it takes standard 91 unleaded.

We were getting 8.0L/100km from the 57-litre tank after about 250km of driving, including an enthusiastic spell on our favoured test route.

This is very close to the long-term 8.1L/100km average that the car showed after almost 2000km.

The 1.5-litre turbo feels a little underdone on torque, but plant it and the thing takes off well enough.

We tried this several times and although the initial response is a little tardy, it quickly recovered, the revs ramping up to around 5500 rpm where the needle hovered.

We kept waiting for the transmission to change up, but of course that didn’t happen - because it’s a CVT. Instead, like a rubber band, the drive ratio changes to optimise response.

Sport mode proved pretty good, but for ultimate control changing gears manually produced the most satisfying result.

Ride and handling are surprisingly good, remembering this is a one-size-fits-all family SUV.

We had to push quite hard to get the car out of shape.

Not unexpectedly, the engine does become a little harsh under hard acceleration.

But engine, wind and road noise are fairly subdued the rest of the time - with the exception of coarse bitumen.

It’s a common theme.

Unlike CarPlay, Android Auto requires a cable to connect your phone to the infotainment system, with a choice of USB-C or older USB-A ports in front.

Having just purchased a new cable for this task, we were disappointed to discover that the USB-C to C port does not support data transfer.

Unlike the X-Trail that we drove recently, however, we were able to maintain a stable USB connection with USB-A. So, remember to pack one of each sort - just in case.

According to the specs, this thing is supposed to have a premium Bose 12-speaker sound system, including a subwoofer.

Not seeing it guys.

Where are the badges declaring its existence?

If you’ve got it, flaunt it - that’s what we say.

SUMMING UP The only blot in the ZR-V’s otherwise spotless copybook is the price, that and the four-stars for safety.

At $49,000 it’s pretty steep for what is a smallish SUV, especially when you line it up against the cheaper and larger Chinese offerings.

And therein lies the problem, not just for Honda but all the established brands in the Australian new car market.

At least Honda has a strategy.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 19

wangarattachronicle.com.au

10-16 JANUARY | 2024

Country charm meets modern comfort DISCOVER the perfect blend of country charm and modern convenience with this delightful three bedroom cottage style home in Springhurst.

Offering a peaceful lifestyle, the home is nestled between the vibrant regional cities of Wangaratta and Albury/Wodonga, and just a short stroll from the heart of Springhurst township.

The home boasts an updated kitchen featuring gas cooking, and flows seamlessly into the combined living and dining area.

You will enjoy the winter months by the cozy wood fire in the main living

area, whilst keeping cool and comfortable in summer with ducted evaporative cooling throughout.

Two larger bedrooms at the front of the cottage include built-in robes and bay windows, whilst the third bedroom is also generous in size.

The family bathroom offers a separate bath, shower and toilet.

Stepping outside you can enjoy outdoor entertaining in the spacious alfresco dining/enclosed outdoor living area, perfect for enjoying the fresh air out of the weather or hosting gatherings and entertaining guests.

It pays off to save

Positioned on a spacious 872m2 allotment, the property also includes a large 7.4m x 9.1m (approx.) shed, accessible from the front of the property.

It provides ample secure storage for vehicles, caravans and trailers within the secure yard.

With plenty of room for pets and kids to run and play, or to add a veggie patch and chicken coop, don’t miss this excellent opportunity to make this charming Springhurst property your new home.

Contact the team at Garry Nash & Co to arrange your inspection today.

3 Agent

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| (03) 5722 2663

Price

| $429,000

Land

| 872m2

Location | 148 Anzac Road, Springhurst

Open a Reward Saver account and get closer to what matters

5 it $25, Deposit D

and we’ll we ll give gi you $25.*

1

*Terms, conditions, fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply see humebank.com.au/the-pay-off. Advice is general. Please read the relevant Terms and Conditions, Product Disclosure Statement, Fees and Charges document and Target Market Determination and consider whether products are right for you. Hume Bank Limited ABN 85 051 868 556. AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

4

Reid

Waldara 114 Wangandary Road

Wangaratta 17 Howell Street

Wangaratta 92 Sisely Avenue

Wangaratta 40 Pelican Court

5057m2

577m2

665m2

675m2

2

4

4

1

4

2

2

4

2

2

4

2

Family Living on 5057m2

As neat as a pin

West End Family Home

Stylish Living - Quiet Court - Rural Views.

For Sale $820,000 - $895,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19192511 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $455,000 - $496,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31382424 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $500,000 - $550,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31261255 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $965,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19191564 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520 Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Hugh Amery

Wangaratta 30 Wenhams Lane 632m2

2

4

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

21Ac

1

2

Wangaratta

M 0417 537 520

44 Ryley Joe Street, Wangaratta McKenzie Paul Reid

Danial Siperki

Hugh Amery

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au Harcourts Wangaratta www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALES

Bundalong Sth 3410 Wang-Yarra Rd

2

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie

1Ac

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural Hugh Amery

44 Ryley Street, W

Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@ www.wangaratta.nutrienharcou

Wangaratta 19 Bottlebrush Avenue 627m2

1

2

Paul Reid

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au Harcourts Wangaratta www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALES

Cheshunt 2064 Edi-Cheshunt Road

4

Wan

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

2

4

2

Spacious Family Living

Rural lifestyle opportunity with access to Ovens River

Charming weatherboard with creek frontage

Stylish new home with all the hard work done

For Sale $630,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L23083232 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $950,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L27736560 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $825,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L29938044 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $680,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L29274528 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Hugh Amery

Hugh Amery

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au Harcourts Wangaratta www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALES

SALES

Wangaratta Paul Reid

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie Paul Reid

Danial Siperki

Harcourts Wangaratta

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie

Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Harcourts Wangaratta

SALES

nzie

Paul Reid

3

1

44 Ryley Joe Street, Wangaratta McKenzie Paul Reid

Danial Siperki

Wangaratta 6 Kanana Crescent 869m2

2

1

3

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311 Hugh Amery

Wangaratta

1703m2

4

Hugh Amery

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALESHarcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 17 Higgins Street

Milawa 26 Milawa-Bobinawarrah Road

1

Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie Paul Reid

Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALESHarcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

SALES

Tarrawingee 228 River Road 3.59Ac

Hugh Amery

Wangaratta Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

1

649m2

2

1

3

1

Lifestyle opportunity in Tarrawingee township

Classic Red Brick Home in the West End

Prime Milawa Location

Renovated and ready to go

For Sale $950,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31330597 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $450,000 - $485,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19193065 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $690,000-$750,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L21636881 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $360,000 - $389,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31621094 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311 Paul Reid

Hugh Amery

Danial Siperki

Harcourts Wangaratta

SALES

Wangaratta 44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Wangaratta Paul Reid

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial Paul Reid

Hugh Amery

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

44 Ryley Joe Street, Wangaratta McKenzie Paul Reid

Danial Siperki

Hugh Amery

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au Harcourts Wangaratta www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Harcourts Wangaratta

SALES

Wangaratta

M 0417 537 520

SALES

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial Danial Siperki

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta Joe McKenzie Paul Reid

Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520 Hugh Amery

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

Danial Siperki

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au Harcourts Wangaratta www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALES

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Wangaratta 7 Ely Street

Wangaratta 56 Cambridge Drive

425m2 CBD Wangaratta leased office building

2 2 977m2 5 100% North Facing Ovens River Water front!

∙ Ideal central CBD location. Currently tenanted with modern fit out, rear parking ∙ Ely St in the heart of Wangaratta, popularity evident with renovations all around ∙ Current tenancy returning $45,000 p/a. In second term until March 2029 ∙ Mixed Zoning. Professional services as tenants

∙ Magnificent family home with spectacular Ovens River views ∙ Five-bedroom home with BIRS and ensuite and WIR to main bed ∙ Large open plan living area with adjoining dining overlooking stunning pool and river ∙ Well equipped kitchen with 900mm Smeg

include EJM financial and subleased to finance & legal consultants

oven and induction cooktop. 40mm stone benchtops. ∙ Second upstairs living area with fireplace and balcony overlooking river ∙ Large North Facing outdoor entertaining area ∙ Secure front yard with established gardens and shady trees.

For Sale $1,620,000 - $1,780,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19194263

∙ Opportunity for further development including upstairs possibilities with park views ∙ Solid investment, variety of long term possibilities. ∙ Easy investment. Set and forget. Look

at possibilities after 2029 to your own requirements For Sale $900,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19194602

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

Wangar

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

Wangaratta

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid

Hugh Amery

SALES

Danial Siperki

Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid Paul Reid Hugh Amery M 0417 537 520 SALES

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Comm

44 Ryley Street, Wangara

Danial Siperki

Wangaratta

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

Joe McKenzie

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Paul Reid

SALES

Hugh Amery

Danial Siperki

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

03 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Wangaratta Wangaratta Wangaratta Wangaratta Wangaratta Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Selling Selling & Selling Leasing, &Selling Leasing, & Leasing, Residential, & Leasing, Residential, Residential, Residential, Rural Rural &Rural Commercial & Commercial Rural & Commercial & Commercial Anthony D'Agostino Andrea Bowman Joe McKenzie Paul ReidAmery Hugh Amery Danial Siperki Joe McKenzie McKenzie Joe McKenzie Joe McKenzie Paul Reid Paul Reid Reid Paul Reid Hugh Hugh Hugh Amery Amery Danial Danial Siperki Danial Siperki Siperki Joe Paul Hugh Amery Danial Siperki

44 Ryley 44 44 Ryley Street, Ryley 44Street, Ryley Street, Wangaratta Street, Wangaratta Wangaratta Wangaratta Marni McKenzie

Lori SamCurr Lyster

4444Ryley Wangaratta Ryley Street, Street, Wangaratta

03 03 5722 03 5722 03944 5722 03 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au 5722 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au admin.wang@nh.com.au 035722 57229444 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au admin.wang@nh.com.au SALES www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SALES SALES SALES

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 21

wangarattachronicle.com.au

At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

Wick’s Cleaning WANGARATTA, YARRAWONGA, COBRAM, SHEPPARTON

Word perfect means “without error”.

Services: Vacate. Bond, Commercial Cleaning, Carpet & Window Cleaning, Tile and Grout Cleaning, High Pressure Washing.

Central winner

THIS central and delightful home is sure to impress in every way from charm and functionality to location and convenience.

It is set on a beautifully landscaped and private allotment, only a short enjoyable riverside walk to Wangaratta’s CBD. The home comprises of four traditionally sized bedrooms, with the master bedroom including BIR’s, ensuite and private adjoining office.

The formal lounge room features a lovely open fireplace.

The substantial open plan kitchen and living room showcases magnificent unique red brick flooring, gas cooking and modern touches.

Ducted gas heating and evaporative cooling provide year-round comfort throughout the home.

Outside within the fully landscaped garden you will find three beautiful entertaining zones including a paved din-

If you need something written or edited, with accuracy, structure, style, flow and focus, to advertise, instruct, persuade, present, publish or legally bind, whether long or short, you need WordPerfect.

I am Helen, a lawyer with an Honours Degree, a major in English Literature and 30 years’ experience writing documents, including contracts, advice, advertisements, reports, resumes, theses, presentations, proformas and manuals.

Contact me for a no-obligation quote for: Proofreading Copywriting

Bookings 0406 377 000 wickscleaners@gmail.com

HALL ABOUT

P L U M BI N G for hall your plumbing and gas fitting needs

4+1

2

Agent

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| 03 5722 2663

Price

| $1,150,000

1

Location | 84 Templeton Street, Wangaratta

Fo r Ha l l yo u r P l u m b i n g and Gasfitting needs.

0409 473 220

0409 473 220 Licence no. 104114

Drafting

Speech writing

Editing

Technical writing

Formatting

Word processing

Email wordperfect52@gmail.com Telephone 0498 490 265

Licence no. 104114

ROOF REPAIRS ROOF PAINTING

ing terrace, firepit area and stunning undercover spa pavilion. Further features include a solar system and ample storage, adding to the appeal and liveability of this outstanding property.

Contact Garry Nash and Co to arrange your inspection of this magnificent home today.

Rooffix

Covering Wangaratta and NE Victoria

9Roof repair and restoration 9All work guaranteed 9Fully qualified roof tiler 9Local, well known tradesman CALL DARREN ON

0428 218 271 www.rooffix.com.au

Search more than 10 million properties Australia wide e You can now Express your interest in all properties you love, even if they’re not for sale yet.

View can connect you with a property specialist for any property Australia wide.

Use See all to explore unlisted properties.

Win Securities Ltd Ltd 43 Reid Street Street 37 Wangaratta Wangaratta 3677 223 ACN 007 346 223 240901 ACL No. 240901 info@winsec.com.au info@winsec.com.au www.wins ec.com.au www.winsec.com.au

Let your local accredited home loan broker Tony Ruvolo and his team help find the right loan for you!

5721 5200

When it comes to property, with view.com.au you see all.

Page 22 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Rural City Connection Friday 10 January 2025 Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta

Australia Day

Backyard BBQ Showdown

Join us for Australia Day as we honour the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals and community groups in our region. The celebrations will include a citizenship ceremony, where we welcome our newest Australians and the presentation of Australia Day Awards for Wangaratta’s Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Event/Project of the Year.

Join us at the Summer Sizzle on Sunday 26 January for the Backyard BBQ Showdown, where you can prove your grilling prowess and compete for some fantastic prizes! You’ll need meat & utensils. BBQs are generously supplied by My Slice of Life. Registration is essential. For more info and to register visit the What’s On section of our website.

Detox Your Home

Council Plan Survey We need your feedback to develop our new Council Plan. The Plan reflects the voice, experiences, ideas, and aspirations of our whole community. Complete the survey online and discover other ways to get involved via the QR code.

Help keep toxic household chemicals out of the environment by spring cleaning your home and delivering them to the Detox Your Home event on Saturday 22 February 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm at the Council Works Depot, 51-69 Newman Street Wangaratta. Registrations are essential and close 20 February 2025. Register via www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome

Planning Applications Application No

PlnApp24/087

Location

10 Eldorado-Tarrawingee Road ELDORADO

7-lot staged subdivision and removal of native vegetation Submissions close 10 January 2025.

Proposal

Application No

PlnApp24/151

Location

1128 Beechworth-Wangaratta Road EVERTON UPPER

Use and development of the land for a dwelling and domestic outbuildings including a habitable outbuilding Submissions close 14 January 2025.

Proposal

Application No

PlnApp24/095

Location

56 Murphy Street WANGARATTA

Buildings and works for the display of an electronic sign.

Submissions close 14 January 2025.

Proposal

These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888.

Rates, Revenue & Spending Priorities Annual Business Forum Local business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs are invited to the 2025 Annual Business Forum. This event is aimed at connecting and empowering the local business community with a keynote address by Michael Licenblat. The forum will take place on Thursday 20 February, from 6 - 9 pm at the WPACC. For more information and to book visit: www.investwangaratta.com.au

Tenders T14871 Aged Care Management Software Program Tender Closes at 12.00pm Wednesday 12 February 2025 Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Councils website.

We’re seeking community input to help us shape the 202526 Budget and the Revenue & Rating Plan 2025-29. Tell us how you think future funds should be raised and invested.

Have your say by completing the survey online and/or by making a direct budget submission via the QR code.

Climate Adaptation Strategy Have your say on the draft 10-year Climate Adaptation Plan for council’s assets, operations and service delivery. This strategy will prepare council to become more resilient to the effects of climate-related natural hazards. Get involved online via the QR code or in person at a drop in session.

Aged Care Packages If you need extra help at home, our Aged & Community Care team can assist. Our Aged Care packages support local people to stay living in their homes and communities.

Experienced local case managers understand our community and are there when you need them. Servicing Wodonga and Wangaratta regions. Visit our website or call us on 1300 982 662 to find out more.

Positions Vacant Role Safety & Wellbeing Officer

Drop-in Sessions 7 Feb | 11am-1pm | Wangaratta Library 10 Feb | 6pm-7pm | Online *registrations required https://events.humanitix.com/draft-climate-adaptationplan-drop-in-session

Closing 10-Jan-2025

For further information on these positions please visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers

Contact your Councillors Tania Maxwell

Appin Ward 0447824785 t.maxwell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

David Fuller

Bullawah Ward 0429 545 907 d.fuller@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harry Bussell

King River Ward 0429 475 863

h.bussell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harvey Benton

Deputy Mayor Ovens Ward 0429 542 928 h.benton@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Irene Grant

Mayor Warby Ward 0428 189 249 i.grant@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Council Contact Details 03 5722 0888 council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au Wangaratta Government Centre Cnr Ford & Ovens Streets Wangaratta 3677 PO Box 238, Wangaratta, VIC 3676. Open - Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm Closed - Public Holidays

Ashlee Fitzpatrick

Wareena Ward 0448 384 600 a.fitzpatrick@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Allison Winters

Yarrunga Ward 0437 181 228 a.winters@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au wangarattachronicle.com.au

IN PERSON BY PHONE BY EMAIL 37 Rowan Street, classifieds@ 5723 0101 Wangaratta nemedia.com.au 3677

WHEN TO BOOK

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 23 THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 23

Chronicle Classifieds 2pm business day prior to print North East Jobs 3pm Friday

SELLING BUY A CAR ONLINE

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

from only $42

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au Employment: northeastjobs.com.au Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE THANKS B A T H R O O M renovations, carpentry and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.

DANIEL’S Carpentry a n d Ma i n t e n a n c e Solutions. Servicing Wa n g a r a t t a a n d surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. dan i el s c ar p e nt r y. com.au or phone 0413 660 636.

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

W H E E L E R E ar t hwo rks, available for all your earthworks needs yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

2 6 Ta yl o r S t r e e t , Wangaratta, Saturday, January 11 at 8am til 2pm. Complete house and shed clear out, everything must go.

2016 Mercedes GLA180, metallic blue, 120,000km, reg o o till Nov 25 (CIZ403), To Visit Visited with warranty to Sep 28, economical 3 Wellington Street, 7 . 9 l / 1 0 0 k m , ve r y Wangaratta, plants good condition, RWC and pots (terracotta), supplied, $22,000.

8.30am - 10.30am.

Contact Joan 0422 Sunday, January 12.

261 537.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

FURNITURE, books, tools, household items, bric-a-brac, electric scooter and more. Saturday 11 and Sunday 12, 8am1 2 n o o n , 7 2 To n e Road, Wangaratta.

Classifieds Work!

Phone:

Ph 0448 933 999

5723 0101

Barina

2002, 1MT 4VP, $1600,105000 D kms.

SOL Serviced regularly.

Phone 0419 338 794.

FRASCA, Gaudenzio

BLUEGUM SAW LOGS OR PLANTATIONS

(03)

HOLDEN

The Milawa Hall & Park Committee sincerely wish to thank the following sponsors: The Garry Nash & Co Community Fund, Lancemore, Flourish Aesthetics, John Gehrig Wines, Henley’s Wine Bar & Kitchen, Michelini Wines, Milawa Cheese Company, Hunters, Sam Miranda, Ava Dining, Milawa Motel, Milawa Mustards, Monroes Hair Design, Gifts of Difference & Distinction, Milawa Post Office, Milawa Pharmacy, Milawa Bakery Café, Wood Park Wines, Milawa Fresh, North-East Fasteners, Walkabout Apiaries, Wang Bearings, Milawa Commercial Hotel, King River Café, Brown Brothers, Wangaratta Toyworld, Wangaratta Post Office, Tangled up Hairdressing, Bunnings Wangaratta, Websters Electrical, Lawrence & Hanson, Milawa Gourmet Region and North East Fencing Hire.

Without these Businesses and their contributions to the Milawa Carols in the Park, this night would not have been possible, so once again thankyou and may you be blessed with on-going success in 2025.

EMPLOYMENT

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

“Jack” “Zino” I would like to thank everyone for helping us celebrate my 99th birthday.

Your visits, cards and good wishes are truly appreciated. ~ Jack, Rose and family.

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

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $30 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, We d n e s d a y, 4 4 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

DEATH NOTICES

CARMODY,

Keith “Carmo”.

8/1/1949 – 2/1/2025 Loving husband of Carmel.

Dad of Jason, Jo, Brendan, Rach and Mat. Pa and “Little Pa” of 15.

POLKINGHORNE, Brian Charles.

14/8/1959 – 30/12/2024 Died with dignity in Wangaratta.

Loved by his fiancé Pamela, daughter Jessie and sister Margaret.

Rest in peace.

WILLIAMS (REEVES), Catherine Jane “Kate”.

27/3/1965 – 6/1/2025 Taken too soon.

Loved and missed by her husband Mark, sons Thomas and Peter and their partners Freya and Micol.

Sister to Pauleen, Peter, Patrick and Helen.

Daughter to Dennis (dec) and Genevieve.

WILLIAMS (REEVES),

Kate.

Dearly loved sister and sister-in-law to Helen and John Cavedon.

Dearly loved Aunty to Johnny and Megan, Jane and Brett.

In our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day.

KUKULKA Thomas and Sophie welcome with love the arrival of

Frankie Holly

on January 1, 2025.

First grandchild for Chris and Maree.

Thanks to the staff at Proserpine Hospital.

Classifieds

WORK!

WILLIAMS, Kate.

Classifieds

Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mark, Tom and Peter.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

- From Vince, Neva, Domenica, Daniel and Sarah Di Stefano.

Emailyouradvert ______________classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

DEATH NOTICES

wangarattachronicle.com.au wangarattachronicle.com.au

DEATH NOTICES

BELL

WILLIAMS, Kate.

We are devastated at the sudden loss of our dear friend and colleague, Kate Williams.

Kate provided kindness, support, laughter, and, when needed, reality checks.

She had many friends, stories and skills.

A highly professional, competent and supportive colleague with an amazing work ethic.

Gone far too soon and very sadly missed.

Our thoughts are with Mark, Peter, Thomas and families.

Treasured memories. ~ Sue Hooper, Jenni Hopkins and David Ashfield.

WISE,

Keith Raymond.

25/6/1938 – 5/1/2025 Loved husband of Dorothy for 61 years.

Treasured father and father-in-law of Trevor and Peta Wise and Sharon and Mark Prentice.

Adored Pop of Emily Wise and Ben Manifold, Cobie and Chris Boulay, Grace and Aaron Prentice.

Memories are ours to keep.

WISE, Keith.

On behalf of the volunteers and staff of District 23, we would like to offer our sincere condolences to Dorothy and family.

Keith was an exemplary member who committed more than 64 years of his life to CFA. Keith remained an active firefighter and member of the Wangaratta Fire Brigade including FEM Coordinator, supporter of the RCH Appeal and the Wangaratta Junior teams until his passing.

Keith’s dedication was recognised with various awards, including the National Medal, the National Emergency Medal and CFA’s 60-year Life Member Medal - an honour that reflects not only his tenure but his profound contribution to the CFA. Keith generously gave his time, energy and expertise to the community he loved.

Keith will be deeply missed!

WISE, Keith.

The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care would like to pass on their condolences to the family and friends of Keith.

His passing has saddened the Illoura community.

Long time special friend of Arthur (dec) and Val Clarke and family.

Great memories of the special times shared over the years.

Love and deepest sympathy to Dorothy, Trevor, Sharon and families.

classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101

WISE The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Keith Wise will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, January 16, 2025 commencing at 10.30am.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers a donation in memory of Keith to the Royal Children’s Hospital would be appreciated and can be made online at www.rchfoundation.org.au/ways-to-donate/ Keith’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

CARMODY Honouring the Journey

Mason Park Funerals

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

WISE, Keith.

Members of the Wangaratta West Combined Probus Club note with regret the passing of Kieth, a respected member.

Sincere condolences go to Dorothy and the family.

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

POLKINGHORNE The funeral service for Mr Brian Charles Polkinghorne will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 2pm.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Family owned and operated

03 5722 2525 www.northeastfunerals.com.au

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

WISE, Keith.

The Chairperson, Board, Management and members of CFA regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to Dorothy and family.

Keith’s commitment of more than 64 years to the Wangaratta Fire Brigade and to his community through his service with CFA will always be remembered.

may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication

FUNERAL NOTICES

Mason Park

WISE, Keith Raymond.

Personal Notices

Friends, relatives and those whose hearts have been touched by Graham, are invited to celebrate his life with his family.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Graham Arthur Bell will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10.30am.

Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Donations made in Graham’s honour to Dementia Australia would be welcomed.

Donations can be made online at www.dementia.org.au Graham’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Keith “Carmo” Carmody will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, on Friday, January 17, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

A private cremation will follow this service.

WISE, Keith.

Our dearly loved, true and loyal friend for over 60 years of laughter and tears.

We will miss you but are sure Beryl will be meeting you on heaven’s golf course for a few rounds.

With love and deepest sympathy to Dorothy, Trevor, Sharon and families. ~ Tom and the Allan family.

FUNERAL NOTICES

WILLIAMS A funeral service to honour the life of Kate Williams will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Rd, Wangaratta on Monday, January 20, 2025 commencing at 10.30am.

A private cremation will follow the service.

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

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

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

To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5310 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 25 THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 25

wangarattachronicle.com.au wangarattachronicle.com.au

Read local news wherever you are • Quality local journalism you trust • Information that keeps you connected • News from the Wangaratta and the local region

31o 31o 34o 35o

ON THE HORIZON

year in review

plasticc free july plasti

sport awards awards

righ fu

W

Year In Review

plus

tv GUIDE

tournament

From First Bell

LE

AB

AIL AV

Back to School

To Last •

Farew

ell

Your award winning local newspaper is also available as a digital edition.

For more information on our special discounted subscription rates and to purchase a digital subscription visit wangaratta chronicle.com.au and select the subscribe tab.

Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Increased snake activity stirs up venomous debate

By MIKE SMITH WHEN summer comes to Mansfield Shire each year, the sun performs its miraculous alchemy, turning the green farmlands and forests of the high country into shimmering gold and snakes leave the dark confines in which they lay dormant during the cooler months.

They come out looking for food and friendship, for water and warmth, and sometimes their paths cross ours.

Encounters with snakes are part of the price of life beyond the city’s concrete sprawl.

One such encounter involving a Mansfield resident and a trodden on tiger snake has led to much discussion across community pages.

Residents have reported sightings of snakes in sheds on Howes Creek Road, in a garage on Rowe Street, and one tiger snake’s arrival upon a veranda was preceded by the deaths of two magpies.

One unlucky resident went to bed on Christmas Day to find their dog had left them an unwelcome present, an ill-tempered, wounded snake writhing beneath the sheets.

The season in which Mansfield’s human and serpentine residents walk, or slither, the same paths is upon us and it has stirred up venomous debate.

Some say snakes must be managed as they are a threat to both human and animal life.

Others say they keep pest populations low and there-

fore slow the spread of disease amongst other positive impacts on the ecosystem around us.

Whether you like them or not, snakes are a protected species and to harm them without cause is punishable by law.

Besides, it is said that most snake bites occur when a human attempts to interfere with a snake.

There seems to be a prevailing belief online that Mansfield District Hospital (MDH) is unable to deal with snake bites, that they do not possess anti-venom, and that they don’t have the facilities to test a patient for the presence of venom.

When the Mansfield Courier spoke to a representative for MDH they made it clear this is simply not the case and that the treatment they provide is in line with known best practice.

“When a person presents to MDH with a suspected snake bite, the immediate treatment will be to apply a pressure bandage, immobilise the limb and the person, and to arrange an emergency ambulance transfer as soon as possible as per Safer Care Victoria Snake Bite Management guidelines,” they said.

“If there are signs of deterioration with significant symptoms of envenomation, MDH has antivenom available for administration.

“We do not test for venom in a patient as it is not currently recommended by the guidelines.

“We previously did test for venom when it was recommended by the guidelines.”

Snow gum ‘survival’ on agenda at Dinner Plain A SUMMIT in Dinner Plain next month hopes to focus attention on the increasing threat to snow gums and the need to take action to save this iconic species of the Australian High Country.

Friends of the Earth (FOE) has organised the three day event, from February 14 to 16 at Dinner Plain Community Centre, to highlight what is says is a double threat - from fire and dieback - to the survival of the uniquely Australian Eucalyptus pauciflora.

FOE spokesman Cam Walker said land managers and academics will help explore what needs to be done to ensure the survival of snow gum woodlands, and put the issue firmly on state governments’ agenda.

“We are inviting First Nations people, local and statewide environmental organisations, local communities and businesses, groups active in outdoors recreation, and enthusiasts of highelevation, forest ecosystems to join in presentations, workshops and field trips,” he said.

Mr Walker said dieback of snow gums - caused by a native beetle - is a natural occurrence, but it is getting worse and more widespread because climate change is making winters warmer and summers drier and hotter.

For more information contact Mr Walker at cam.walker@foe.org.au

they are UNPLEASANT SURPRISE: A Mansfield resident went to bed on Christmas day and found a terrifying present left under the covers by their pet dog.

PHOTO: Facebook

SECOND GENERATION SNAKE HANDLER: Brad Leary is following in his father’s footsteps and setting up shop as a snake handler in Mansfield Shire.

PHOTO: Supplied “Given this is the ‘snaky time of year,’ MDH has assessed and treated a number of snakebites since October 2024 and will continue to have the resources available to provide emergency care for any person who presents with suspected or known snakebites.”

According to Safer Care, Snake bite guidance, Snake Venom Detection Kits have a significant misidentification rate and for this reason their use is no longer clinically

recommended in Victoria.

The document also says that all suspected snake bite patients should be managed in a facility with access to antivenom, critical care facilities and a 24-hour laboratory for blood tests and that if these criteria are not met, inter-hospital transfer is required, even for asymptomatic patients.

Given some are saying this is the worst snake season in the past 25 years, it is welcome news that Brad

Leary, Mansfield Shire local, has completed his accreditation as a venomous snake handler.

He is now awaiting his wildlife control licence from DEECA which will allow him to set up shop as Mansfield Shire’s sole snake handler.

Brad is set to become a second-generation snake handler, his father having worked with Mansfield Wildlife Shelter, he grew up around Australian wildlife and while it is a passion and a respect for snakes that motivated him to become an accredited snake handler, he is well aware of the danger they present.

“I think anyone who doesn’t have a healthy fear of snakes is crazy,” he said.

“Avoidance is key, keep a safe distance.

“If you find yourself close to a venomous snake, stay calm and stand still, snakes will move on.

Though their fearsome reputation is well earned, venomous snakes tend to avoid humans if given the chance as

said to be non-confrontational by nature.

“Wear high ankle boots that offer some protection and long baggy pants with a little give in them, that way if a snake has a crack at you, it will get material and not flesh.

It’s Brad’s belief that everyone should have a working understanding of snake bite first aid kit.

“Snake bite kits are just as vital as anti venom,” he said.

“They are not expensive and they can make a big difference to how big an impact a snake bite has upon you.”

They can be the difference, Brad said, between some of the more unpleasant symptoms of a snake bite and not presenting any symptoms at all.

Finally, if you don’t want snakes in your yard or on your property, Brad advises you keep it clean.

“Remove habitable spots and sources of food and you’ll remove any reason for snakes to be in your yard.”

What shall we do with a drunken sailor?

A BOATIE lost his licence on the weekend before Christmas after being caught more than double the legal blood alcohol limit on Lake Eildon.

The 54-year-old skipper had several passengers on board a ski boat when he was intercepted by the Water Police Squad about 12.45pm on Sunday December 22, 2024.

Water Police inspected his vessel before conducting a preliminary breath test which returned a positive result.

The man subsequently underwent an evidentiary breath DRUNKEN SAILOR: A boatie lost his licence on the weekend before test on the police boat and re- Christmas after being caught more than double the legal blood turned an alleged reading of alcohol limit on Lake Eildon.

0.122. popular waterway and deter His marine licence was im- see is a tragedy occurring.

“We want everyone to enjoy unsafe behaviour. mediately suspended for six Over one weekend they conmonths, and he was fined the waterways – we just them ducted more than 25 vessel into do it safely. $840.

“That means carrying the spections, licence checks and “Alcohol does not mix with water,” said Water Police Ser- mandatory safety equipment, breath tests.

Around a dozen boaties wearing a lifejacket, and ditchgeant Dave McHenry “It leads to poor decision ing the booze if you’re the mas- were found not to be carrying mandatory safety equipment making and slower reaction ter of the vessel.”

Water Police had travelled including fire extinguishers, times.

“The last thing we want to from Melbourne to patrol the and several children under the

age of 12 were not wearing life jackets.

All were issued with formal warnings.

Two boat operators were fined $395 for not having life jackets on board their vessels.

The Water Police Squad will continue to have a highly visible presence at Lake Eildon this summer.

Boat and jet ski operators can expect to be tested for drugs and alcohol, and have vessels inspected for mandatory safety equipment.

Boat operators are reminded that children under 12 must always wear a life jacket.

If operating alone, boaties must wear a life jacket and attach an engine kill switch to ensure safety in the event they fall overboard.

“The community can expect to see us out and about this summer conducting vessel checks, licence checks, and alcohol and drug tests to ensure everyone can enjoy the break safely,” Sgt McHenry said.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 27

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

WDCA juniors excelling in representative competitions

UP AND COMING: Rovers United Bruck junior Reid McNamara is thriving in representative cricket for North East Knights and Northcote CC. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

THE Wangaratta and District Cricket Association is proving itself as the home of talented junior cricketers.

Throughout December and January, local juniors have been thriving in representative competitions in the Country Cup for North East Knights, and even in Dowling Shield teams down in Melbourne.

The metro-based Dowling Shield (male) and the Marg Jennings Cup (female), along with the Country Cups (both) are feeder programs in Cricket Victoria’s player pathway, for the best and brightest young talent to excel on their way to Premier Cricket and beyond.

In the Country Cup, the under 16 boys Knights overcame some of the most promising juniors in the state to finish third overall.

Rovers United Bruck’s Reid McNamara led the way for the Knights, finishing second overall in the competition batting charts with 224 runs averaging 44.80 from six innings.

McNamara plundered two 50s with a top score of 63 and picked up two wickets as well.

Wangaratta’s Lenny Sims was the next highest run-scorer for the Knights, belting 105 runs averaging

52.5, striking at an impressive 106.06.

With the ball, Yarrawonga Mulwala’s Van Kreeck was imperious for the Knights, taking 10 wickets at 11.40, with best figures of 3/17 coming against Mallee Suns in the thirdplace decider.

City Colts up-and-comer Connor Ormond picked up seven wickets at 15.86.

Following their exploits in the Country Cup, McNamara and Ormond took part in the Dowling Shield for Northcote CC, which commenced on Monday.

After the first round was washed out, the WDCA juniors proved their mettle in their second round match against Greenvale Kangaroos.

Bowling first, Ormond took 1/9 from four overs, while McNamara cashed in to take 3.20 from 6.3, helping Northcote bowl our Greenvale for 126.

Batting at four, McNamara came in with Northcote in trouble at 2/40, but produced an incredible 46* from 65 deliveries to steer his side home with 14 overs to spare.

Semi-finals in the Dowling Shield are set for Tuesday, January 21, while local WDCA junior cricket will resume on Saturday, January 18.

SCOREBOARD JUBILEE GOLF CLUB Saturday, January 4 Men’s Stableford A Grade Winner: Aaron Kungl 40.

B Grade Winner: Sam Richards C/B, Mitchell Bush 39. C Grade Winner: Alan White 37. D Grade Winner: Mike Fitzsimons 42.

Ball winners: Mitchell Bush 2 balls 39, J Marjanovic Jnr 38, Alex Jones 38, Les Naidoo 37, Jim Moore 36, Peter Glidden 36, Albert Gigi 36, Gary Dinsdale 36, Bronte Bruce 35, Rhys Rigoni 35, Glenn O’Connell 35, Neville Hogan 35.

NTP: 4th C De Mink, 8th D Potter, 13th R Henderson, 17th A Charles.

Sunday, January 5 Mixed Stableford competition A Grade Winner: Joe Marjanovic 39. B Grade Winner: Felix Gamze 43.

Ball winners: Garth Fullerton 41, Brian Lee 40, Mick Reidy 38, Eon Scott 37.

NTP: 4th Robert Skase, 8th Eon Scott, 13th Andrew Skewes.

Monday, January 6 Men’s Stableford A Grade Winner: Zachary O’Brien 40. B Grade Winner: Mark Dean 37. C Grade Winner: Barry Adams 42.

Ball winners: Brian Thomas 39, Ray Hyland 39, Neville Hogan 39, Pat Ernst 39, Gordon Paterson 37, John McKenzie 35.

Mark Dean Eagle on 7th NTP: 4th B Adams, 8th C Palmer, 13th A Gibbs, 17th N Hogan.

Tuesday, January 7 Ladies 18 Hole Stableford A Grade Winner: Mary Jones 36. B Grade Winner: Judy Fogarty 35.

Ball Winners: Jackie O’Brien (2) 33, Leeanne Carmody 32, Ros White 32.

NTP: 4th Robyn Ottaway, 8th Marilyn Pane, 13th Janet Wraith, 17th Leeanne Carmody.

Wednesday, January 8 Stableford A Grade Winner: Albert Gigl 39. B Grade Winner: Martin Hill 36. C Grade Winner: Geoff Veldman 42. D Grade

Winner: Rod Canny 43.

Ball winners: Ian Mills 40, Danny Potter 38, John Huntington 37, Terry Docherty 37, Bernie Grealy 36, Nigel Cooper 36, Brett Keir 36, Alan Sands 35, Luke Griffin 34, Mike Fitzsimons 34, Pat Ernst 34, Bill Slade c/b 33.

NTP: 4th Brett Keir, 8th Bruce Poulter, 13th Alan Bastin, 17th Andy Black.

Thursday, January 9 Ladies 9 hole stableford Winner: Helene Gallo 18.

Ball Winners: Robyn Grealy 16, Marilyn Payne 16.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB WGC Competitions: Week ending January 5 Tuesday, December 31 Women’s: 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Karen Smith 18 points.

Runner Up: Barbara Thomas 17 points.

NTP: 13th Julie McInnes.

Wednesday, January 1 18 Hole Medley Stableford Event Winner: Leon Kantor 42 points.

Runner Up: Arnold Sparks 38 points C/B. Ball Winners: Dean Campagna, Glenn Burns, Logan Norris, Chris Oates, Bobby Hutchieson, Darren Burns, Trevor Cooper, Ray Hutton.

NTP: 4th Bill Dodd, 7th Darren Burns, 11th Maurie Braden, 13th Chris Oates, 16th John Southwell.

Hole In One: 16th Hole - John Southwell.

9 Hole Stableford Winner: Dan Madden 19 points.

Runner Up: John Millman 17 points.

Thursday, January 2 Women’s 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Barbara Woodward 20 points C/B. Runner Up: Wendy Stephens 20 points.

Medley Competition: Friday, January 3 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Nikole Cunningham 24

points. Runner Up: Brennan Jenvery 18 points.

Men’s Competition: Saturday, January 4 18 Hole Stroke Event Men’s Monthly Medal A Grade Winner: Christopher Martens 70 nett C/B. Runner Up: Martin Anania 70 nett C/B. B Grade Winner: Rodney Godde 64 nett. Runner Up: Lenny Sims 65 nett C/B. Ball Winners: Darren Burns, Trevor Trimble, Russell Wallace, Bobby Hutchieson, John Southwell, Jarred Clark, Stuart Bowman, Matt Nicolosi, Barry Thompson, Craig Donoghue, Samuel Reid, Phillip Winnell, John Mullins.

NTP: 4th Ray Hutton, 11th Simon McKay, 13th Josh Owen, 16th: Ray Hutton.

Eagle: Ash Clayton 17th Hole.

Secret 6: Neil McKinnon.

Raffle Winner: Trevor Cooper Women’s Competition 18 Hole Stableford Event Winner: Dawn Fleet 37 points.

Runner Up: Sue McCall 35 points.

Ball Winners: Julie McInnes, Barbara Thomas.

NTP: 11th Dawn Fleet, 13th Dawn Fleet.

Sunday, January 5 18 Hole Medley Stableford Winner: Martin Anania 37 points.

Runner Up: Brandon Bowen 31 points.

TARRA GOLF CLUB Results Saturday, January 4 The members played a stroke event for the January Monthly Medal which was won by Leo McCoy 86/18/68, and the runner up was Pete Nolan nett71.

Nearest the pins - 2nd: Leo McCoy, 4th: Angelo Garraffo, 8th: Ken Miller.

Golf to be played on Saturday, January 11 will be decided on the day - all members welcome.

It will be an 8.30am roll up for a 9am hit-off.

The early starts will continue for

the remainder of the warm season until otherwise advised.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club with first-year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees - this can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.

WANG CROQUET Results for Monday, January 6 are as follows: Elise Downes and Maureen O’Keefe d Christine Ireland and Margaret Bennett 6/5, Robyn Muller and Janet Kelly d Wendy Waddington and Gavan Kelly 7/3, Jed Hart d Gabi Heywood 7/6.

A visitor, Jed Hart, a member of Byron Bay Croquet Club attended and enjoyed his time playing with and against our members so much so that he has joined our club as an Associate member.

On Wednesday evening, we returned to Twilight Croquet at 6pm and 11 members attended, with play finishing after 8pm.

We are involved with the Summer in the Parks program until the end of February and members of the public are welcome to come and try the game at no cost - please wear flatsoled, covered footwear.

A former member who was taught the game at Wangaratta is now the captain of Victoria and a current member is in the Victorian Squad and has recently been selected in the top eight In Australia, so we believe that Wangaratta Croquet Club is the place to learn the game with our friendly, welcoming approach.

Play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, with twilight play from 6pm on Wednesday evenings.

Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer

on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.

WARBY WALKERS Thursday, January 2, Lake Sambell to Lake Kerferd, Beechworth.

This walk was rescheduled to avoid the hot weather forecast for the following Saturday and was attended by 16 walkers, two of whom were casuals who initially attended a walk with our club via Try Bushwalking Month in November last year.

The amble began at Lake Sambell’s main recreation area and we followed the track alongside it to the Lake Sambell Caravan Park crossing a footbridge over Silver Creek to begin the shared walk/bike track to Lake Kerferd.

After crossing another bridge over Silver Creek we entered a cool forest area with covered mine shafts and then reached the Beechworth Holiday Park.

Continuing on the shared trail (with lots of friendly bikers) we then reached the Heaven and Hell Tunnels and continued on the Pipeline Track to Lake Kerferd.

Morning tea was held at Lake Kerferd in the shade of some majestic gum trees before we returned along the shared trail to Lake Sambell.

Lunch was beside Lake Sambell at the high point overlooking the lake just around from the very busy playground area.

Coming Events Sunday, January 19 Myrtleford Trails (Erin, 0419 200 998) One of the most level walks you can find, an easy walk of approximately 10km on the Old Ovens Highway and Rail Trail, then following the Mosaic Trail by the Ovens River for some interesting street art.

Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9 Weekend at Mount St Bernard Lodge near Mount Hotham – booked out.

Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Forgotten Spirit takes on $3,000,000 Magic Millions ANDREW Dale will have the biggest runner of his career when Forgotten Spirit tackles the $3 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic at Aquis Park (Gold Coast) on Saturday.

While the two-year-old filly won’t race in Dale’s name after he transferred her to Scott Morissey’s care for the preparation in Queeensland, hoop Linda Meech will don the well-recognised maroon and white ADR colours.

The Magic Millions Carnival and in particular, the 2YO Classic is a huge occasion for any trainer given it’s one of the richest and most well-respected days on the calendar, let alone a horseman from the country town of Wangaratta.

“The whole process has been great, from the breaking in to the education done down here early days to then sending her up to Scott (Morissey) – it’s been a fantastic ride,” Dale said.

“To get to the Magic Millions Classic is fantastic con-

sidering there’s 1200-1300 yearlings purchased at the Magic Millions every year and we’re now in the top 16 of those.”

Dale, along with longtime friends Stephen Hines, Tom Royal and Scott Bailey sit in the ownership group after the daughter of Spirit Of Boom was purchased for $100,000 at the 2024 sales.

“The friendship between all of the owners goes back a long way from our junior footy and schooling days,” Dale said.

“It’s pretty special to be in a horse like this with guys I’ve known for 40-50 years.

The Magic Millions Classic runs a field of 16 runners with the order of entry based on prize money accumulated.

Forgotten Spirit just snuck into the field of 16 after earning $60,000 from a thirdplace finish in the $250,000 The Debut and second in the $125,000 Gold Pearl.

“She’s had a pretty good lead-up and Scott (Morissey) has done a great job with her

SPIRITED RUNNER: Andrew Dale’s ‘Forgotten Spirit’ will race in the $3 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic at Aquis Park on Saturday.

PHOTO: Magic Millions program,” Dale said.

“From The Debut to the Gold Pearl and now into the Magic Millions, the planning has been great and

she’s in terrific order heading into Saturday.

“Speaking to Scott on the phone he reckons she was a little bit off her best in the

Club healthy as aggregate tennis returns FOLLOWING a nice break over Christmas and New Year, tennis action will return to the grass courts at Merriwa Park as the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club (WLTCP) resumes their senior aggregate competition this weekend.

Ryan Patterson leads the pack with an average of 20.0, while Mark Gorman (19.6), Andrew Lindner (19.4), Brian Scobie

(19.3), Andrew Cope (18.9) Mark Brown (18.8) and Peter Curran (18.1) find themselves in strong positions.

The junior competition is set to return to the court on Saturday, February 1.

With healthy participation in senior and junior tennis, as well as the club’s other branches of play, WLTCP president Barry Sullivan said they were in a great place heading into 2025.

“Our croquet is going well, we’re looking at ramping up our pickleball, so overall the club’s going well,” he said.

“We’ve had Greg Duns come in as the club coach with his partner and assistant, they’ve been doing a fantastic job and we’ve been getting great feedback from all the people he’s been involved in coaching.

“He’s got about 70-odd juniors and he’s starting to do some

Gold Pearl where she ran second so he’s hopeful she’s going to be peaking come Saturday.”

At Tuesday’s barrier draw,

the filly was assigned gate 11 with Meech to ride and installed as a $31 outsider with Sportsbet where she has since come in to $27.

For Dale, a run in the top half a dozen would be a great result.

“She’s drawn a bit of a sticky barrier but they go ridiculously quick and we saw that in the Gold Pearl so if that’s the case again hopefully it’ll stretch the field out and we might be able to sneak in behind the first three or four,” he said.

“The owners were really keen to get Linda Meech onboard, as soon as we found out we were in (the race) the whole ownership group knew she was the one we wanted to book.

“Going off her first two runs I definitely feel a run in the top six or so is achievable.”

Forgotten Spirit will come back to Wangaratta after the preparation where she will be transferred back to him as trainer.

BACK ON THE COURT: Senior aggregate tennis is back this weekend. PHOTO: Marc Bongers adult coaching as well.

“Numbers have been reasonably strong, but a lot more kids are undertaking coaching and HotShots training, and we feel that’s going to be a great lead-in for people once they get the right level and skillset, that they can move into junior tennis competition, and we’re hopeful of getting between 50 and 100 in the coming seasons.”

The club’s popular annual

tournament is coming up at the end of the month, with hundreds set to flock to the club from January 25-27 for the Gateway Australia Day Tournament.

Entries for the tournament close on Wednesday, January 15 – for more information or to register, visit Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club on Facebook or check out www. wanglawntennis.com.au.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 29

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2024/25 season

PREVIEWS: Saturday, January 11

City Colts and Rovers UB kick off cricket in 2025 TWO Wangaratta clubs will reignite the 2024/25 WDCA A grade season this Saturday as the A grade competition returns.

Rovers United Bruck will look to continue their excellent form when they host City Colts in a one-dayer at WJ Findlay Oval.

The Hawks sit second on the white-ball ladder, and will be hot favourites to down the Colts, who have only won a single limitedovers clash this season.

City Colts captain Mitch Giggins said the key to a strong back end of the season would be their top order batters outlasting a strong Hawks bowling attack.

“We need to bat our overs, which we have done a couple of times, but we need to bat for longer and treat it as a two-day match rather than try to go out there and make 200 runs in 15 or 20 overs as opposed to the 40,” he said.

“We just need our top five to stick it out for that little bit longer and build a decent score, then worry about the team later on to get to 200, 250 and putting a good score on the board.

“We’ve been having a few conversations about the second half of the year and what we want to achieve as a

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

group, and everyone’s striving to make finals again.

“This year’s a little more different – we’ve got the young fellas who are sort of leading the way a little bit, upping the standards of training and wanting to be better cricketers.

“It’s exciting, we’re going pretty well as a club, so we’ll start at the top with A grade making finals and hopefully everyone else follows suit.”

Giggins said the Hawks would prove difficult to overcome.

“They’re once again flying at the moment, but I’ll back us in to make some more runs,” he said.

“Their Sri Lankan, Charith (Perera) is making a fair few runs, so we want to knock him over early.

“We’re tipping young Jed Marek is going to have a good second half - he got 45* in our last game and he’s been taking wickets consistently, he’s going to be one to watch, he’s going to be an exciting talent in years to come.”

RUB skipper Paddy McNamara said he was looking

forward to pitting his batters against another talented attack.

“100 per cent, our batting has been huge for us this season,” he said.

“We had a little look at our form in recent years, and our batting probably hasn’t been consistent enough – we’ve had some really good games, but we’ve also had a lot of games where we’ve been bowled out for under 120 and we haven’t really done that (this season).

“Everyone’s had a pretty good knock at some stage this season, it’s been really impressive, the batting side of things.

“I feel like our overseas player Ryan Collier has had a fair few starts, he hasn’t been dismissed inside his first 20 balls yet, but he hasn’t been able to go on with it.

“I feel like there’s a really big score coming from him, he’s been looking really good in the nets and he’s been pretty disappointed with some of his performances, so I feel like there’s definitely one coming around the corner for him.”

Rovers United Bruck take on City Colts at WJ Findlay Oval this Saturday from 1pm.

DERBY BASH: Paddy McNamara and the Hawks host Josh Nanson and the City Colts in the first A grade clash at WJ Findlay Oval in 2025.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

‘PIES ON THE CUSP ON FINALS

By NATHAN DE VRIES

PRESSING ON: Cooper Matheson and his Magpies could lock in a ticket to the one-day grand final with a massive win over Ovens Valley United this Saturday.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

A SCINTILLATING first half of the WDCA season sees a guaranteed spot in the A grade one-day final within Wangaratta Magpies’ grasp with two matches to go.

The Magpies sit on top of the one-day ladder as the competition recommences this Saturday, and head across to Myrtleford to take on Ovens Valley United.

With matches against the Tigers and bottomplaced Benalla left, and with the fixture of other matches favouring them, one more win should be enough to secure a berth in the decider.

The Magpies have been on a tear with the bat in recent matches, recording 200+ runs from their last three white ball games before the break.

Magpies skipper Cooper Matheson said the side was looking forward to blowing out the cobwebs after the two-week break over the Christmas period and continuing their strong form.

“We’re looking forward to facing up against Ovens

Valley United - I think if we win this we’ll cement a spot in the one-day final, which will be good,” he said.

“When you’re making 200, most of the time you’re usually going to win, and I think two of them were chasing as well.

“It’s mainly been the consistency we play with.

“When a couple have failed in the top of the order, the middle order has been stepping up every week and getting us over the line.

“In the one-dayers, me and ‘Bottles’ (Nic Bonwick) haven’t made a lot at the top, but the middle order’s just doing its job and winning us games.

“With the ball, ‘Chook’ (Kyle Winter-Irving) goes for 2.50 an over, Jimmy Thewlis is about the same, and Matty Prestianni against Colts was about 1.70 an over, so the spinners have really tied them up...not many teams have scored against our spin which helps a lot, especially in the one-dayers.”

While by no means out of contention, the Tigers will need two massive

wins if they hope to earn the chance to defend their white-ball title.

Ovens Valley’s playercoach and off-spinning all-rounder Geeth Alwis looms as an immediate threat to the Magpies, having made 482 runs averaging 96.40 and taking 12 wickets at 9.17 in the first half of the season.

“Batting-wise, Geeth is the number one wicket we need to get, and hopefully we can get him out fairly early,” Matheson said.

“Cooper Thomason usually bowls pretty well, but Geeth is the main one, and if he’s back bowling, we’ve got to try and get through his eight and set ourselves up from there.

“Spinners always seem to get wickets in our comp, and it’s shown for us as well, all of our spinners have been taking wickets every week.

“You put four fielders out and they still try to hit it over their head and get caught.”

Wangaratta Magpies take on Ovens Valley United this Saturday at McNamara Reserve this Saturday from 1pm.

Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

year in review sport

wangarattachronicle.com.au

bowls

tennis October Wednesday, October 2 Cricket’s ‘bridesmaids’ to step up in ‘24/’25 AFTER coming so close to glory twice last season, Rovers United Bruck are eager to produce better cricket as they stare down the start of the A grade season.

The Hawks made it all the way to the one- and two-day grand finals in ‘23/’24 but failed to bring home any silverware for their efforts.

Friday, October 4 Grand-slam winning coach locked in THE Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club has secured the services of grand slam winning coach Greg Duns.

Duns coached Stephen Huss, who paired with Wesley Moodie, to claim the 2005 Wimbledon Doubles Championship, famously beating alltime greats the Bryan brothers.

Monday, October 7 Richards rewarded WANGARATTA’S Joe Richards capped off an outstanding first year of AFL football, claiming Collingwood’s Harry Collier Trophy for the best first year player.

After being drafted in 2022 and playing VFL in 2023, Richards debuted for the Magpies in round nine against West Coast and went on to play nine games.

 WELL DESERVED: Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club member Michael Falkenberg was recognised for his contribution to tennis with a service award from Tennis Australia. WLTCP president Barry Sullivan was on deck to present the award at the club’s first round of aggregate tennis on Saturday.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers it’s that time of year again – it’s time for cricket.

The Wangaratta and District Cricket Association will commence their 2024/25 season this weekend, with both senior and junior cricketers hitting the park, with the exception of the C grade competition which commences a week later.

Monday, October 14 Debut for the ages OVENS Valley United player-coach Geeth Alwis announced himself to the competition after peeling off 89 from 71 balls and taking 5/14 against Benalla Bushrangers on Saturday.

The first-year Tiger was instrumental in Ovens Valley’s win at Benalla’s Gardens Oval, knocking over the Bushrangers for

 Greg Braden’s A1 side forced a tie against Rutherglen on Saturday. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

79 and making 6/208 in reply to kick off the WDCA season.

Wednesday, October 16 City raceway secures Aussie speedway title WANGARATTA will play host to thousands of rev-heads in 2026, when the 23rd SSA National Production Sedan Title comes to the Wangaratta City Raceway across ANZAC Day weekend.

The local track won hosting rights for the massive event last week, following submissions from raceways across the country.

Friday, October 18 Richards traded to Port Adelaide WANGARATTA product Joe RIchards is on the move.

After a breakout season with Collingwood this year, RIchards is off to Port Adelaide after requesting a trade last week.

Monday, October 21 Hawks hold off OVU ROVERS United Bruck held on against Ovens Valley United at RC McNamara Reserve on Saturday.

Friday, October 11 Summer of cricket is here IT seems like just yesterday the stumps were being pulled down and the whites were given one last wash, but

Wednesday, October 23 Aggenbach steps up IT’S a new chapter in the storied history of Wangaratta City Football Club, with a changing of the guard in the role of president.

Kristy Mellor, who has held the office for the past three years, stepped down at the club’s annual general meeting on Wednesday night, with Brett Aggenbach appointed her successor.

Friday, October 25 Cross-road rivals to lock horns CROSS-road rivals Rovers United Bruck and Wangaratta Magpies will once again lock horns at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow.

It promises to be a cracking clash with both sides coming off confidence building wins after RUB held off Ovens Valley United and the Magpies stunned defending premiers Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Monday, October 28 Hawks soar over ‘Pies CLASHES between Rovers United Bruck and Wangaratta Magpies are one of the highlights of the A grade fixture, and the latest edition of the rivalry delivered in spades.

The Hawks took bragging rights at W.J. Findlay Oval on Saturday, bowling the ‘Pies out for 170 defending their 7/190 total.

Wednesday, October 30 Weeding and co dominate weekend

Wednesday, October 9 No Warriors in 24/25 DELAYS with the opening of the new basketball courts has led to Wangaratta not fielding sides in the men’s and women’s Country Basketball League competition.

Despite hosting an NBL match in late August, the two new courts at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre have still not been cleared for public use.

After setting the Tigers 145 to win, Ovens Valley United were well on their way to chasing the total at 2-102.

CRAIG Weeding and his fellow Wangaratta horse trainers excelled on the weekend.

Not only did Weeding train three winners on Saturday and one on Monday, but local horsemen combined for eight winners on Saturday.

horse racing  CRAIG Weeding’s Prince Of Helena is one of two locally trained horses set to run in Tuesday’s $3 million Big Dance at Randwick.

PHOTO: Racing Photos

November Friday, November 1 Player points released WANGARATTA Rovers have been handed 36 player points for the 2025 Ovens and Murray season after their drought-breaking premiership win last

Back to School TRUSTED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FOR OVER 75 YEARS

WANGARATTA

66-68 Murphy Street Phone (03) 5721 3458

month, while the Magpies have been allocated 39.

Rovers had 40 points in 2024 and played with 39 in the grand final so will need to drop an additional three next season.

Monday, November 4 Ready for races THE Race That Stops A Nation is almost here, and the crowds will be trackside at the Wangaratta Turf Club on Tuesday to take in the big race for the first time in five years.

Between COVID restrictions, track works and the ever-fickle weather gods, punters, fashionistas and the general public have been unable to enjoy Melbourne Cup Day at the local track since 2019.

Wednesday, November 6 ‘Pups’ to help elevate Bulldogs REAPPOINTED Tarrawingee senior coach Justin Hoggan believes improvement will come from the young up and coming Bulldogs next year.

The club confirmed Hoggan would continue to lead the Bulldogs through the 2025 O&K season eager to continue to build the club back up to being competitive.

Friday, November 8 Theirs to win AS the A grade competition moves to wrap up the first round of red ball cricket for the season, Ovens Valley United and City Colts find themselves both in a strong position to record a win in their matches.

After a woeful run with the bat in last season’s two-dayers, Ovens Valley United have 298 on the board to defend after declaring seven down last Saturday against Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Monday, November 11 Tigers stun premiers OVENS Valley United A grade cricketers celebrated one of their biggest wins on the weekend, successfully defending their gargantuan 298 run total against reigning two-day premiers Yarrawonga Mulwala.

The Tigers were disciplined with their lines and lengths against the Lakers, and took their chances when they came, knocking Yarrawonga Mulwala over for 183 in a touch under 62 overs of play.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025 - Page 31

year in review sport basketball

Wednesday, November 13 Onwards and upwards WHILE she didn’t set the world on fire at Flemington, the sky is the limit for Ledger Racing’s All Kinds Of Folk.

The three-year-old filly took to the track in the $1 million Group 1 Crown Oaks on Thursday afternoon, and gained valuable experience at the top level of racing, despite running 13th out of the field of 14.

Friday, November 15 A tall task ROVERS United Bruck A grade co-captain Paddy McNamara is taking a cautious approach to tackling Ovens Valley United this weekend.

While they were largely the competition’s whipping boys in the red ball format last season, the Tigers announced themselves as a legitimate contender after they secured a 115run over reigning two-day premiers Yarrawonga Mulwala.

Monday, November 18 Barrett steps aside THE winds of change have been blowing at Wangaratta Turf Club, with CEO Sean Barrett stepping down from the role.

Barrett joined in February 2021, and has helped steer the club through challenges presented by COVID, renovations, and facility upgrades.

Wednesday, November 20 D-day for Berry WANGARATTA Magpies’ Joe Berry will realise his draft dream this week.

The mercurial small-forward has been tipped to be selected in the first round of tomorrow’s AFL Draft, with round two onwards following on Thursday.

Friday, November 22 Berry’s Power bound WANGARATTA Magpies’ Joe Berry is off to Alberton Oval.

The crafty small forward was selected

by Port Adelaide with pick 15 of the National Draft on Wednesday night and will now join former Wangaratta Magpie Joe Richards at the Power.

Monday, November 25 More than a game TWO worlds will collide under one message next weekend as WDCA A

 Katie Ford assesses her next move at Wangaratta Basketball Inc’s junior tournament on the weekend.

The tournament was held in Wodonga with Wangaratta’s new stadium yet to open. grade sides City Colts and Ovens Valley United partner with Zonta Wangaratta to stand against violence against women.

The ‘Orange Up’ two-day fixture beginning on November 30 at Bill O’Callaghan Oval will feature the worldwide colour against violence across the field with teams to don orange caps, sweatbands bat grips and take stance with orange stumps.

Wednesday, November 27 Giggins blasts maiden century CITY Colts skipper Mitch Giggins was rewarded for years of loyalty with his maiden century on Saturday.

The experienced opener blasted 103 from 120 rocks in a knock that included 14 boundaries to steer his side to a convincing victory over Benalla Bushrangers.

Friday, November 29 O&M’s derby start EXCITEMENT for the 2025 SS&A Ovens and Murray Football Netball League season is building already, with the league releasing the season fixture on Wednesday morning.

It all kicks off on April 5, with a blockbuster standalone season opening Wangaratta Derby between the Rovers and Magpies at W.J. Findlay Oval.

Bulldogs’ A grade squad in 2025.

The two-time Fay Morgan Medallist, multiple club B&F winner and multiple league Team of the Year defender will take over the club’s top coaching role on the court from teammate Maddie Canning, who elected not to stay on after leading the club to a semi-finals berth.

Friday, December 6 Level playing field WANGARATTA Rovers FNC will use a $1.45 million federal grant to build new women’s football and netball changerooms at W.J. Findlay Oval, to help cater to the club’s growing number of female participants.

Announced by Independent MP Helen Haines at the club’s annual general meeting on Wednesday, the club received funding through the Federal Government’s Play Our Way program, which seeks to provide greater opportunities for women and girls to access, participate and remain involved in sport and physical activity.

Monday, December 9 Colts’ heartbreak DESPITE the end result for City Colts, Saturday’s Zonta round raising awareness of gender-based violence can be marked as a massive success.

Originally planned as a two-dayer

soccer

 A NEW CHAPTER: Vitaly Leschen will take the reins as the new coach of Wangaratta City FC’s senior men’s squad.

Leschen said he’s looking forward to the challenge of bringing the Devils back up the ladder. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries before last weekend’s deluge shortened the game against Ovens Valley United to 40 overs a side, the match was preceded with a brief ceremony featuring leading family violence advocates in the area.

Wednesday, December 11 Festive race day joy THE Wangaratta Turf Club kicked off the festive season with a successful Christmas Party Raczzzzzze Day. Around 1550 eager spectators flocked to the beautiful facilities last Saturday despite the weather forecast promising a gloomy day.

Friday, December 13 Record breakers AFTER months of training and fundraising efforts, Wangaratta District Specialist School students have returned from the Australian All Schools Athletics Championships in Brisbane with podium finishes and records broken.

Representing Athletics Victoria, WDSS students Dylan Vescio, Lara Pearson,

Mia Godwin, Harry White and Victoria Waddel-Laing and their families made the trip up to Brisbane to compete at the championships from December 6-8 in scorching conditions against the best from across the country.

Monday, December 16 ‘Pies’ class shines bright WANGARATTA Magpies smacked 239 runs from 40 overs to run away convincing winners over Beechworth Wanderers.

The ‘Pies won the toss and elected to bat first with Cooper Matheson (21) getting his side to a reasonable start at 2/56.

Wednesday, December 18 Fixture shake up THERE are just over 100 days until the start of the 2025 BankWAW Ovens and King Football Netball League season, and with a new-look fixture unveiled on Monday night, excitement is building.

Round one of season 2025 is set for Saturday, March 29, but Moyhu will have to wait an extra week to commence their season, with the bye first up.

Friday, December 20 Crucial clash for Colts CITY Colts are out to snap their two game losing streak when they meet Wangaratta Magpies at Barr Reserve.

The Colts started like a house on fire, jumping to the top of the ladder with a 3-1 record, however, losses to Ovens Valley United and Yarrawonga Mulwala sees them sit in fourth on the overall ladder.

December

Friday, December 27 Hawks are flying

Monday, December 2 Cricket wash out

ROVERS United Bruck’s A grade side entered the Christmas break in style after securing a 48-run win over a strong Beechworth Wanderers outfit on the deck at WJ Findlay Oval last Saturday.

Batting first, the Hawks posted an above-par 5/237, with opener Charith Perera leading the charge.

ROUND six of WDCA action will revert to one-day games after Saturday’s fixture was washed out.

Wangaratta received 43.2mm of rain with WDCA officials calling games off early on Saturday morning, while junior affairs were cancelled on Friday night.

Wednesday, December 4 Tig White to coach A grade Bulldogs

basketball

TARRAWINGEE superstar netballer Tig White is confident she has what it takes as she steps up to coach the

Back to School TRUSTED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FOR OVER 75 YEARS

WANGARATTA

66-68 Murphy Street Phone (03) 5721 3458

 PLAY BALL: Wangaratta’s Sam Maher is realising his dream of playing college basketball in America, having signed with a Bay Area university.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

Page 32 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 10, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

ªxHRKILCy872010z

CRICKET’S BACK

After the midseason break, Josh Nanson (left) and his City Colts will roar back into the season against Paddy McNamara’s Rovers United Bruck. A grade cricket previews page 29.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Bring on the Carnival JANUARY in Wangaratta means warm weather and eager anticipation for one of the biggest sporting weekends on the calendar, with the Wangaratta Sports Carnival just a few short weeks away.

Set to be held on Saturday, January 25, the 104th running on the carnival will bring premier athletes to the Wangaratta Showgrounds on the Australia Day weekend, with athletics and woodchopping events set to delight spectators and

104th Wangaratta Sports Carnival just weeks away

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

competitors alike.

The free event is sure to attract crowds to the showgrounds, with last year’s edition seeing around 1500 people pass through the gates throughout the day.

Wangaratta Sports Club president Anna Pasquali

said there was something for everyone to enjoy across the whole day.

“We’ve got the woodchopping at 10.30am, they’ve got the tree climbing back on, they haven’t had that for many years, and they’ve got crosscut sawing,” she said.

“The athletics starts at 2.30pm all things being well, and by that I mean the weather – if it’s a really hot day we have to push it back

to a 5pm start or a 5.30pm start even.

“Hopefully we can have a 2.30pm start and it wraps up at around 10pm with finals action starting from around 7pm.

“We have a netballers relay that we’re running, which we ran last year, and we’ve got Little Athletics races that I’m organising, and the feature events are the 120m women’s and men’s gift.”

The athletics events in the evening have attracted talented runners for many years, and has often served as a strong indicator of who will thrive at events later in the year such as the Stawell Gift.

“The Wangaratta Gift has been a really good leadup for the last few years heading into the Stawell Gift, and a good predictor of finalists,” club secretary Paul Hughes said.

“Last year’s Wangaratta Gift winner (Jack Lacey) went on to win the Stawell Gift, and the Wangaratta Women’s Gift winner (Chloe Kinnersley) was the runnerup in the Stawell Gift.”

Entries for the Wangaratta Gift close this Sunday, January 12.

“We are expecting good entries for the carnival,” Hughes said.

“The Victorian Athletic League across the board has had an increase in entries this year, so we’re hoping for good numbers.”

A p p r o v e d p r o v i d e r o f h o m e c a r e p a c k a g e s - We c a n s u p p o r t y o u o n y o u r j o u r n e y

WE ARE LOCAL 63a OVENS STREET WANGARATTA

w w w. t i m e l e s s s u p p o r t . c o m . a u

Timeless Support has been approved to provide subsidised home care packages through the Australian Government.

Depending on your circumstances you may be able to receive care and services, funded either fully or partly by the Government.

CALL US ON 1300 292 747