Chronicle Monday 100624

FESTIVAL IS KING

IT may have been sunny one day, wintry the next, but there was a constant warmth of embrace for visitors to wineries in the King Valley over the weekend.

Brendan Wallis, who grew up in Moyhu, and Malissa Puyol, travelled from Melbourne to enjoy the Weekend Fit for a King Festival. They were among 180 guests at the three course long lunch at Pizzini Wines on Saturday and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

“The festival is just so welcoming and homely...and people are so loyal the to family winemakers,” said Malissa.

STATE Government department VicGrid will be visiting Wangaratta tomorrow to discuss its Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Community Benefits Plan with the local community.

The plan recognises the important role rural and regional communities are playing in the renewable energy transition by providing direct investment in projects that improve energy reliability and affordability for local communities.

renewable energy zones including Ovens-Murray and communities will be able to apply for funds for projects that improve power supply, lower energy bills and create energy jobs.

A REZ Community Energy Fund will be created in each of the state’s six

Examples could include initiatives like community microgrids, network upgrades or bulk purchases of solar panels or heat pumps.

REZs have been set up in the Ovens-Murray region roughly showing where renewable energy facilities could be located and a draft report will be released soon showing best areas for the development of facilities.

The report will factor in existing land use, farming types, irrigation access and biodiverse qualities of land.

VicGrid CEO Alistair

Parker told the Wangaratta Chronicle the community sessions will discuss how regional communities can benefit from the transition from coal to renewable energy.

He said VicGrid has existed for three years and one of the things they keep hearing is that regional communities don’t believe the benefits of this big investment of transition to renewables is being shared fairly.

“The government has listened and we’ve published this big plan that talks about the introduction of new community funds, payments for host landholders and treatment for significantly impacted neighbours,” Mr Parker said.

■ Continued page 2

Wineries among Halliday finalists

TWO North East Victorian wineries have made the shortlist for the 2025 Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

Billy Button Wines (Alpine Valleys) was a finalist in the Best Value Winery category, while Granjoux Wines (Beechworth) was a finalist in the Best New Winery category.

Judging for the awards was conducted in March over two days, where winners were determined collaboratively by a full tasting team in a blind tasting, reviewing 7500 wines across 1100 wineries.

Award winners will be announced at a ceremony in Melbourne on August 7.

Tappy

and Mal on road again, rallying for cancer research

By STEVE KELLY

LOCAL residents Stephen Tappe and Mal Robinson are doing the Shitbox Spring Rally again this October, travelling from Bendigo to Townsville, all in the name of raising money for cancer research.

The mates are putting on a fundraising auction at The Vine Hotel on Sunday, June 30 from 1pm till 5pm, with live music provided by Peter Klein and his band.

Auction items will include current signed AFL

jumpers from several clubs, organised by local Murray Bushranger players, and other auction items will include a trailer load of split wood.

The minimum amount the pair need to raise is $5000 and anything extra is a bonus.

They’ll again be taking their VZ Commodore station wagon that they purchased for just $900 prior to their trek from Port Douglas to Adelaide last year.

‘Tappy’ and Mal appreciate the help and generosity

of the local business and individuals to achieve as much money as possible for this worthwhile cause.

To donate to the ‘Bushies 2’ team scan the QR code (below) and the team’s donation progress can be tracked on the Shitbox Spring Rally 2024 site.

Power to people from Glenrowan Solar Farm

THE Glenrowan Solar Farm is exporting renewable energy to the grid via its adjacent terminal station, providing the equivalent electricity to power 55,000 homes in the national electricity market.

Local community members will also benefit from $50,000 in funding each year for another nine years as part of the facility’s community-driven benefit sharing program.

In its first year, Pacific Parnerships, which is managing the solar facility, received $200,000 in funding requests, and $50,000 in grants were distributed to 10

VicGrid visiting city on Tuesday to explain Renewable Energy Zone Community Benefits Plan

■ From page 1

Landowners that host transmission infrastructure will receive $200,000 per kilometre of transmission hosted on their properties, which is on top of existing compensation arrangements.

Guidelines for significantly impacted neighbour benefits will also be introduced, recognising properties next to land that hosts new transmission infrastructure can have visual amenity impacts that cannot always be adequately addressed through measures such as screening or vegetation.

Renewable Energy Zones are shown on the map of Victoria as “blobs” without any detail, but Mr Parker said they’ll not only do the proper work about where they should go from a land use point of view but also where is the best resource and what’s close to existing transmission.

“If you have a transmission line on your property, you get compensation, but if you’re next door to the existing system, you get nothing,” he said.

“We’re talking about how do you handle significantly

different community groups.

From a community garden to a defibrillator, groups across Glenrowan and Wangaratta received the funding as part of Glenrowan Solar Farm’s program.

Major beneficiaries of the program were Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability (WLS), who tallied almost $14,000 of funding towards three separate community projects.

Pacific Partnerships last week welcomed guests along with sister company UGL, which completed construction of the solar farm in May, and is now responsible for its operation and maintenance.

Managing director from Pacific Partnerships, Simon Nicholls, said he was very pleased to welcome Victorian Minister for Energy and Resource Lily d’Ambrosio at the official opening and he acknowledged the key role of the state of Victoria.

He said the State Government selected the project as one of six solar farms to provide 623 megawatts (MW) of new renewable energy capacity and four big batteries to help meet its target of 100 per cent renewable electricity across government operations by 2025.

He said industry partners had ensured a very positive start to operations, including the Victorian transmission network operator, Ausnet, and the national network operator AEMO.

AusNet chief development officer Jon D’Sylva said the 130MWdc solar farm is now exporting renewable energy to the grid via its adjacent terminal station, supporting the transition to a carbon-neutral future.

AEMO welcomed Glenrowan Solar Farm to the network when it achieved first energisation earlier during testing and commissioning in December.

impacted neighbours.”

This topic has arisen several times locally as solar facilities have been built or are proposed to be built in the rural settings.

Mr Parker said the old-fashioned way of transmission planning was a technical job where an engineer draws a line on the map to show where it’s going.

“What we have started to integrate is a strategic land use assessment, looking at biodiversity, looking at cultural heritage, looking at existing land use and whether there is a farm there and what sort of agriculture is it,” he said.

“Does it co-exist well with

BLOBS: Seven Renewable Energy Zones are indicted as the green blogs on the map of Victoria but VicGrid is looking to get more specific to determine what the best areas are.

renewables or would there be a problem, for example how does irrigation react with solar.

“We are doing that work at the minute to really look at where the best places for this are and where are the absolute worst places for it.

“We’re not ready to publish that yet but we’ll come out and consult with people on that soon.

“We’ll say to people, have we got this right and you might not like it, but are ‘these the least worst places to put it’.”

Benefits for Traditional Owners will be developed as part of REZ Community Benefits Plan – this will

be done through direct engagement.

The design will aim to give Traditional Owners control over the form these benefits will take and ensure they deliver economic empowerment and support selfdetermination.

The funds for communities and Traditional Owners are in addition to landowner payments that were legislated in the Victorian Parliament.

VicGrid experts will be at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday, June 11 for a community drop-in session from 3pm to 5pm, continuing with workshops from 6pm to 7.30pm.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN: Stephen Tappe (left) and Mal Robinson invite the community to a fundraiser at The Vine Hotel on Sunday, June 30 from 1pm until 5pm to raise money for their 2024 Shitbox Spring Rally campaign.

King’s Birthday honour for former Premier with local links

By SIMONE KERWIN

FORMER local resident and Galen Catholic College graduate Dan Andrews has been recognised through the 2024 King’s Birthday honours for his service as Victorian Premier.

Mr Andrews was named a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the General Division of the honours list, “for eminent service to the people and Parliament of Victoria, to public health, to policy and regulatory

reform, and to infrastructure development”.

He served as the state’s 48th Premier from 2014 to 2023, and was at the helm during Victoria’s strict COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

Prior to assuming the role of Premier, Mr Andrews was Leader of the Opposition from 2010 to 2014, Minister for Health from 2007 to 2010, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Gaming and Minister Assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs from 2006-’07, and Parliamentary Secre-

tary for Health from 2002-’06. He was the Member for Mulgrave from 2002 to 2023.

Mr Andrews was leader of the Victorian branch of the Australian Labor Party from 2010-’23, assistant state secretary in the early 2000s, and has been a member of the party since 1993.

He moved to Melbourne to attend Monash University after completing his secondary studies at Galen in 1990.

Shortly after being appointed Victorian Labor leader in 2010,

Mr Andrews visited his old school, and recalled that Galen was not just a place of learning, “it was really a community”.

“The teachers… educated and taught and inspired you to seek the next answer,” he said.

“That’s where real learning comes from.”

AWARDED: Wangaratta raised Daniel Andrews, who served as Victorian Premier for nine years, has been named a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC).

Sunny one day, cold the next, but fit for festival

BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au

THEIR smiling faces said it all.

With a glass of Sangiovese in hand, George and Penny Votzourakis from Melbourne were well and truly getting a taste of the King Valley.

“Could you think of anything better,” enthused George, settled at the tasting table at La Cantina King Valley, where another 100 visitors were savouring wines and homecooked Italian fare in the warm embrace of the Corsini family, basking in glorious sunshine on Saturday afternoon.

“This is our third festival in the valley, but it’s been a longtime between drinks...2021 was our last time here,” said Penny.

“George is consulting in Wangaratta at the moment so we decided to make a weekend of it, staying here in the valley.

“Our focus has been on the small producers who you can’t get at a Dan Murphys.

“The wineries’ wines, such as Rosato, Dolcetto and Sangiovese, together with their warm and friendly welcome has been fantastic.”

Similar sentiment was echoed throughout the valley, where visitors were enjoying the Weekend Fit for a King festival at six other participating wineries - Dal Zotto, Pizzini, Politini, John Gehrig Wines, Darling Estate nd Brown Brothers.

Shannon Pizinni at Dal Zotto Wines said while crowds on Saturday were a little quieter than last year, visitors were certainly enjoying the festival, revered for its relaxed,

SAVOURING THE VALLEY: George and Penny Votzourakis (above) from Melbourne were enjoying La Cantina King Valley; while (INSET) Garry (left) and Carmel (right) Cook of Wangaratta were hosting Kiama visitors Cameron and Sally Potter for the weekend, with Dal Zotto Wines the perfect spot to enjoy each others company over a glass of Prosecco. PHOTOS: Jeff Zeuschner

homely appeal where friends and family can enjoy each others company, with authentic Italian wines and food with its makers.

While four piece cover band

The Friesians had some guests on the dance floor, others were enjoying a game of bocce, dining on wood fired pizzas and fresh pasta dipped in the tomato, chilli and

garlic cheese wheel, or tasting the famous Prosecco, Sangiovese or Barbera.

At Pizzini Wines, 180 guests enjoying a three course long lunch were keeping things festive.

“It’s been a little quieter than last year, but that just enriches the experience for those here,” said Natalie Pizzini, noting events on

in almost all wine regions across the state over the weekend.

“We’re slowly building back up after COVID.”

Sunday’s weather, while less inviting with its wintry chill, still saw a steady flow of traffic in the valley, drawn by the promise of a warm reception and quality fare at each winery.

State funding to support LINE Wangaratta’s ongoing growth

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

LINE Wangaratta has received a $32,120 grant from the Victorian Government to help strengthen its work and growth in the community.

The organisation is among 16 across the state that Minister for Equality Harriet Shing announced will receive a share of $400,000 as part of the LGBTIQA+ Organisational Development Grants program for 2024.

Minister Shing said Line Wangaratta will use the funding to coordinate an organisational development project for staff, volunteers, and board members, focusing on strategic planning, business development, financial sustainability, and community engagement.

“We’re supporting LGBTIQA+ organisations and groups with these grants so they can deliver programs that will help to build safe, supportive and inclusive communities for LGBTIQA+ communities across the state,” she said.

“Our continued support for the LGBTIQA+ sector is embedded in Pride in our future, Victoria’s first long-term plan for LGBTIQA+ equality, which is setting the agenda to 2032 to ensure all Victorians are safe, free and equal.”

The annual grants program established by the Labor Government in 2016 helps organisations and groups grow their capacity to support LGBTIQA+ communities across Victoria.

Close to a third of the projects supported through the grants program this year will be delivered in regional Victoria, with projects ranging from literary festivals to promoting LGBTIQA+ participation in sport and to those telling queer history.

Women’s safety, social issues discussed at CWA conference

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA CWA members were among almost 400 from around the state who recently gathered at the Melbourne Royal Showgrounds for the Country Women’s Association of Victoria’s 96th State Conference.

The conference’s theme of ‘Advocating for Change’which is priority in the CWA’s five-year strategic plan - was reflected in agenda topics of safety for women, homelessness, food security and young people, which were respectively addressed by guest speakers: Ro Allen, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner; Kate Colvin, CEO of Homelessness Australia; Daniel Moorfield, CEO of Soundbite; and Aileen Lacy from Mission Australia.

Round table discussions focused on safety for all women and what makes advocacy successful with outputs used to further inform CWA of Victoria’s State Advocacy Plan.

CWA of Victoria state president Jennifer Nola said the state conference provided an opportunity to re-engage on

the issues that are central to the CWA’s purpose as well as focus on emerging issues that could benefit from our support and advocacy.

“While the primary focus of the conference was advocating for change in relation to homelessness, food security and young people, it was

ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH WANGARATTA

The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.

Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.

If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.

Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.

safety for all women – whether at home, at work or in the wider community - that was an undertone of the conference,” she said.

“It was a fantastic conference, we had a lot of active participation by our members.”

Resolutions put forward

CHESSIE Margaret Flanagan was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Tuesday, June 6 at 11:53pm and weighed 3.31kg (7lb 4oz). She is the daughter of Millie and Dylan Flanagan of Yarrawonga.

for debate included:

• overhauling the deductible gift recipient regulations to introduce a more streamlined and transparent process for determining which charities can receive tax-deductible donations – Central Highlands Group;

• removing indexation on

tertiary students’ HECS/HELP loans to enable young Australians to repay their HECS/ HELP debts more quicklyCentral Highlands Group; and • increasing fuel reduction burning in Victoria and that recommendations from the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission be adhered to by

the Victorian State Government - Omeo/Tambo Valley Group.

The Hume Goulburn Group, which encompasses Wangaratta and the branches from North East Victoria, put forward motions to:

• strengthen the legislative framework in relation to the accessibility of extreme and/ or graphic digital content by children in Australia; and

• develop a legislative framework in relation to disclosure requirements for the commercial use of digital editing and artificial intelligence productions.

“Both resolutions put forward by the Hume Goulburn Group were passed by a majority vote...the majority of members felt that there has to be a legislative framework for us to work within,” Ms Nola said.

“CWA supports vulnerable and disadvantaged women, children and families but it’s also about friendship and making a difference and there are all sorts of ways you can make a difference.”

The CWA is open to all women of all ages who want to be involved, for more information visit https://cwaofvic. org.au/about/become-amember/.

Festival dished up valley’s hospitality

Monday, June 9, 2014

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

SPECTACULAR weather helped ensure thousands of visitors were able to savour the very best that wineries throughout the King Valley had to offer over the weekend.

Billed as one of the wineries’ two most important weekends of the year, almost all 11 of the participating wineries in the Weekend for a King festival reported good crowds over both days.

45 years of Associazione Trevisani

nel Mondo celebrated

THE Associazione Trevisani nel Mondo Myrtleford and District Inc recently celebrated the 45th anniversary of its founding.

songs and music.

“We’re still to finalise sales, but we expect to have done just as good, if not better, than last year’s 2900 wine glasses sold,” said Elizabeth Ellis from Wines of the King Valley yesterday afternoon.

“Crowds were certainly on par with previous years... with upwards of 4500 visitors.”

During the luncheon at the Savoy Club, Myrtleford on June 2, 104 guests, including a bus load of representatives from the Trevisani of Melbourne, contributed to the success of the celebrations in a joyous atmosphere of conversations, dancing and laughter.

Following the Second World War there was a great migration of Italians to Australia in search of a better life.

Many from the province of Treviso in northern Italy arrived in Myrtleford and surrounding areas, including the King Valley.

They settled in North East Victoria with its hilltop countryside views reminding them of their homeland.

cal towns with the creation of meeting places such as the Savoy Club, the cinema in Italian, the Fiera - Festival of the Italians and the Dolce Vita in King Valley.

Their children, growing up Australians, went on to contribute in many different professions to Australia’s progress.

Ms Ellis said around half of the visitors were from Melbourne, but local numbers had swelled on the back of yesterday’s fine weather.

The Savoy’s chef served some luscious foods based on traditional Italian recipes, and Ricky Brun treated the guests with a rich selection of memorable Italian

Most of the original Trevisani employed their skills in farming, with the cultivation of tobacco and grapes contributing to the development of Myrtleford and lo-

The celebrations were also an opportunity to invite families, friends and Trevisani sympathisers to join forces in reaching out to new potential members in order to maintain the traditions and strengthen the future of the Associazione Trevisani of Myrtleford in the years to come.

ENJOYING THE CONFERENCE: North East CWA members at the annual conference included (from left) Dhirleen Clarke and Betty Bjorksten (Wodonga), Joy Lowry (Tallangatta), Robyn Heik (Wangaratta), Mary Grant (Tallangatta), Barb Ireland (Barnawatha), Marg Wood (Tallangatta) and Wilma Bright (Wangaratta).

PHOTO: Katie Paynter

HAPPY 45TH: Enjoying the festivities marking the 45th anniversary of the Associazione Trevisani nel Mondo Myrtleford and District Inc. were (from left) Natalina Ellen (public officer), Luigi Casagrande, Sandro Camillo (vice president), Armando Pasquali (president), Teresa Pasquali, Manuele Dussin (treasurer), and Laura Parisotto.

Chessie Margaret Flanagan

SAVOURING FESTIVAL: Visiting Sam Miranda’s where (from left) Dale Hooper, Jackie Sher, John and Katrina Nurse. PHOTO: Luke Plummer

Glenrowan residents want trucks to ease off brakes

RESIDENTS in Glenrowan have been enduring sleepless nights as trucks on the Hume Freeway heading north use engine braking to slow down off the Glenrowan hill.

It’s driving locals, including Wes Lawton, up the wall and they’re calling on authorities to help reduce the noise levels.

“The biggest issue is the trucks have cruise control, so when they are going down the hill cruise control automatically turns on their air brakes,” he said.

“That’s the noise which is worrying, as soon as those brakes are applied, either manually or by cruise control the noise level jumps.

“It’s unbearable and the noise is only going to get worse as population grows.

“My wife and I both wrote

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

letters to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the local council.

“Decibel limits we took were higher than they should have been according to EPA standards.

“I know truck drivers aren’t going to adhere to everything put in front of them but it may reduce noise levels if we can have some sort of sign at either end of the town, stating not to use your air brakes or to be thoughtful of Glenrowan residents.”

Wangaratta-based state MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, is acting on residents’ concerns and raised them with the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr McCurdy asked the Minister to provide a solution that would deliver some long overdue peace and quiet at night.

“We all know small country towns that we drive through where it says ‘Please turn off your engine brakes’, and we understand that in small communities,” he said.

“But when you live right next to the Hume Highway on the downhill run, all night most nights the engine brakes are roaring.

“Although it is on the Hume Highway, it is still an opportunity to do something to give the community members of Glenrowan some peace and quiet during the night.”

Mr McCurdy hoped a quick, reasonable, and effective solution could be found.

Spreading the message of positive mental health

By CHLOE JAENICKE

PROJECT 365 is getting mobile to spread its message of positive mental health throughout all of the Rural City of Wangaratta every day.

With the help of Grimshaw Signs and support of the Rural City of Wangaratta council, a garbage truck has been spruced up with Project 365 messaging.

Peter Rourke, who started Project 365 in 2021-22 to promote positive mental health through musical performances, said it’s important to share the message with the community, as “mental health now is one of the biggest issues in society”.

“We’re in this for the one reason and that’s to create a conversation around positive mental health and to get people to be able to talk,” he said.

Mr Rourke said he is grateful for all the support offered.

“Council have been unbelievable, they have been brilliant,” he said.

“They have made this whole thing so easy.”

Mr Rourke also said he

awareness

feels lucky to be part of a community where events like this can come together and be supported by so many people.

“To be able to bring an event like this to our

community with the help of others, including where we are today at Grimshaw Signs, but also with everyone else behind the scenes is pretty inspiring,” he said.

Project 365’s next concert

will be on February 22 next year at the Old Rodeo Grounds and Mr Rourke hopes it garners the same support as the last event in November last year, titled ‘The Ripple Effect’, which drew 2000 and raised

more than $50,000.

“The community has been really good and that showed in our last show and hopefully we can bring it home again in February next year,” Mr Rourke said.

Landcare, Bangerang project at Mullinmur Billabong gets $50K

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

WANGARATTA Landcare and Sustainability has been granted $50,000 through the Victorian Government’s $2.5 million Fish Habitat Improvement Fund.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation, Steve Dimopoulos, announced the local group’s project was among numerous initiatives across the state being funded to boost habitat for a range of fish species in Victoria’s waterways.

He said under the local project, the waters of the Mullinmur Billabong at Wangaratta will provide more homes for native fish with new fish shelters to be built – while cultural burning and weed management will also be done in partnership with the Bangerang Traditional Owners.

Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability president Tony Lane said the group was delighted to receive the funding and looked forward to working in collaboration with Bangerang Traditional Owners to deliver the project.

“This is an exciting partnership which we believe can deliver great benefits,” he said.

The Australian Trout Foundation (ATF) in partnership with the Alpine Fly Fishers also received investment to improve habitat at Mayfly Rise on the upper Ovens River, with a grant of $46,000 helping ATF stabilise the riverbed, deepen the river channel and prevent erosion while removing pest plant species from the area.

“All these projects will make a real difference and provide better fishing and healthier aquatic ecosystems for many years to come,” Minister Dimopoulos said.

CALLING FOR CHANGE: Wes Lawton is part of the community calling for a change to the truck noise in Glenrowan.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

IMPORTANT MESSAGE: (Pictured from left) Katie Elliot, Kate Delahunty, Jared Reid, Cameron McPherson, Caleb Bryon, Jayden Grimshaw, Peter Rourke, Russell Edwards and Mayor Dean Rees are hoping the truck can spread Project 365’s

of positive mental health. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Sporting heritage retains pride of place in community

WANGARATTA and district communities have always taken great pride in their sporting heritage.

Throughout the rural city, sporting clubs have and still remain the proverbial ‘heart and soul’, offering a shared sense of purpose and belonging.

Individual and team performances are celebrated, and the efforts and commitment of all are fundamental to ongoing operations and sustainability.

More than 60 years ago a shared sense of purpose saw our city pursue and achieve a significant milestone in support of our love of sports.

In the 1960s and early 1970s it began transforming the former Wangaratta Golf Club site, adjoining the city oval, into a sporting precinct.

A footy oval and pavilion, hockey field, netball courts and access road were developed in stage one of the newly named HP Barr Reserve.

This Friday will mark 50 years since then Victorian Governor Henry Winneke opened the $300,000 indoor Wangaratta Stadium, which was stage two of the plan - catering for basketball, squash, volleyball, badminton, table tennis and netball.

Subsequent councils and their administrations have continued the proud legacy, adding further upgrades in preceding decades, most notably the inclusion of a 25 metre indoor pool 22 years ago, 50m outdoor pool in 2020, and most recently an expanded gym and a significantly expanded stadium with new courts set to be imminently opened.

The facilities have and continue to cater for our community and beyond, and are an achievement to be proud of.

The Quiz No. 88

1. What is the symbol for the chemical element, Nitrogen?

2. Which Australian state has a coastline on the Gulf of Carpentaria?

3. Who was Louise Bawden’s partner in the beach volleyball tournament at the 2016 Summer Olympics?

4. What are the two main ingredients of a traditional hollandaise sauce?

5. The First Indochina War was fought during which two decades of the 20th century?

6. Pink Suit Blue Day was the 1982 debut album of which Perth-based indie rock band?

7. How many seats did the Liberal/National Coalition have after counting concluded in the 2016 Federal Election?

8. Kal-El is the birth name of which fictional superhero?

9. What are the four colours on the flag of Papua New Guinea?

10. Who wrote the classic 1908 novel, We of the Never Never?

11. Ganymede is the largest moon of which planet?

12. How many stages are there in the life cycle of a butterfly?

13. The 2014 TV series, Fat Tony & Co., focused mainly on which criminal?

14. The MV Brigitte Bardot is a sea vessel owned by which organisation?

15. What was the first team to score over 160 points in a single match in the 2016 WAFL season?

16. Which four countries share a border with Rwanda?

17. Yarrow, Stookey and Travers are the surnames of which famous trio?

18. What type of bird is featured on the Coat of arms of Western Australia?

19. Who played the role of Bernie Tiede in the 2011 movie, Bernie?

20. The 1937 painting, Metamorphosis of Narcissus, is one of the best known works by which artist?

FACEBOOK users commented on Galen Catholic College student Archer Direen touching down on the Gold Coast for the School Sport Australia Football National Championships.

• Hayley Currie: Well done Arch!

• Denise Gay: Congratulations Archer. Facebook users also commented on the Aged Care Volunteer scheme that helps aged care

residents feel less lonely.

• Lora Watson: This is an amazing program to be a part of! If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Paula Currell at The Centre on 0427 964 657.

• Sandy Prendergast: Heroes Facebook users also commented on the recent breakdown of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s two streetsweepers.

More rental reforms only put cost up

I AM concerned about the Victorian government’s proposal to put further requirements on landlords in reference to gas appliances.

In March 2021, as a property manager for the past 15 years in both regional and CBD of Melbourne, I wrote that the rental reforms being introduced in regards to renters being able to make modifications to rentals, have more pet ownership rights and the gas and electrical checks would ultimately put rents up along with having old school landlords sell up.

Three years on, we have seen rents increase significantly in that time and less investors buying new rental properties due to not only interest rate increases but due to the restrictions and costs associated.

Not only that, all landlords were given a hefty COVID tax levy to pay for the debt from the government in Melbourne.

While the proposal to move away from gas heating appliances may work for apartment buildings in Melbourne as a majority of apartments already have split system units, I question what would the requirements be for a landlord that owns a three or more bedroom typical family home in regional areas that usually have ducted gas heating throughout.

Is a landlord expected to fork out thousands of dollars to have a ducted electric reverse cycle unit installed or split systems installed through-out?

I understand the need and discussion required to do our part for climate and energy emissions, however the timing of doing this is not right, given the current cost of living, interest rates and the government crying out over the housing crisis - it will only make matters worse for all involved.

I was pleased to see the Real Estate Institute of Victoria was in agreement with this.

Rob Bell, Wangaratta

Nuclear power must be considered

I READ with interest Shirley Mills letter (Wangaratta Chronicle, June 3) on the need for Australia to seriously consider nuclear power and wholeheartedly agree with her.

The point she made were correct and are crucial to our country moving forward.

Yes, the desecration of our beautiful countryside with miles of solar panels and huge wind turbines is an on ongoing eyesore.

To recall, we hardly saw the sun last winter which makes the whole thing a total farce.

When Chris Bowen (Minister for Climate

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

• Allan White: One seemed to be having issues this morning in Docker St. Facebook users also commented on past Wangaratta High School students from the class of 1949 visiting the school’s former site at The Centre.

• John Barker: And when they were building new High School ,Yarrunga Primary School was a temporary High School .

Facebook users also commented on Dal Zotto Wines’ new CEO.

• Susie Rudd: Wonderful news for Harry & for Dal Zotto wines.

Facebook users also commented on the increase in both minimum and award wages.

• Jack Carruthers: if any Small Business cannot pay its workers am honest sum, they should not be in Business.

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

14,866

Should the Federal Government take stronger action to make social media platforms more accountable for their

among

the works

Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm until June 17.

Change and Energy for Australia) tells us nuclear isn’t a success in countries around the world I believe he is grossly misleading every Australian.

This mess can be turned around by how you vote at the next federal election.

Pat Cushway, Wangaratta

Urgent home care reforms are needed

THE Retirement Living Council (RLC) is calling for the Australian Government to implement urgent home care reforms following news that the number of Australians approved for a package but waiting to access funding has more than doubled over the past 12 months.

Despite the government’s announcement in the recent federal budget that it would fund an extra 24,100 home care packages in FY25, new data has found more than 68,000 Australians have been approved for a package but are currently waiting to access funding.

The policy approach to home care should reflect the willingness the privately funded retirement living sector has shown to want to help the fight against the aged care crisis.

RLC’s Shared Care framework, which we submitted to the Australian Government ahead of the budget, finds that retirement villages could help make the delivery of home

care almost 20 per cent more efficient, while saving the Commonwealth $100 million annually.

This ‘shared care’ approach would provide three models for retirement village operators to deliver community-based care services under the Support at Home program within the village setting, either independently or through a delivery partner.

Retirement villages provide scale for delivering these services efficiently and cost effectively by reducing travel costs incurred by service providers, increasing the frequency of service delivery, and enhancing the quality and suite of services by leveraging those already in place at these communities.

Daniel Gannon, RLC executive director

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

1. N 2. Queensland 3. Taliqua Clancy 4. Egg yolk, butter 5. 1940s, 1950s 6. Eurogliders 7. 76 8. Superman 9. Black, white, red, yellow 10. Jeannie Gunn (Mrs Aeneas Gunn) 11. Jupiter 12. Four 13. Tony Mokbel 14. Sea Shepherd Conservation Society 15. Subiaco Lions 16. Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo 17. Peter, Paul and Mary 18. Black swan 19. Jack Black 20. Salvador Dalí

ARTWORK IN HAND: Janet Leith and Ronan Holdsworth are

local artists currently exhibiting in the Thirty x Thirty exhibition at Art Gallery on Ovens. You can see

from artists across the North East on Monday,

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Ultralight upgrade to offer CFA firefighters more protection

VOLUNTEER firefighters will be better protected on the frontline with a new foam fit out on all of the Country Fire Authority’s (CFA) ultralight vehicles.

CFA has commenced the new $3.19 million retrofit program which includes 246 existing ultralights plus $4.95 million for the purchase of 33 new ultralights with crew protection.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes,said the retrofitted vehicles have new crew protection systems, including compressed air foam-based deluge to suppress fires, and radiant heat shield curtains to ensure volunteers inside the vehicle are sheltered from extreme temperatures.

She said the retrofit includes internal cabin storage for fire blankets, making them more accessible in the event of a burn-over., while some plastic elements of the vehicle have also been replaced with more durable materials such as steel or aluminium.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said significant laboratory, simulation and real fire exposure testing was conducted over the past few years to ensure the new systems met the occupant survival criteria.

“Retrofitting all our ultralights gives our members the best possible chance of survival in a burnover,” Mr Heffernan said.

“The safety of our fire-

fighters is our number one priority and we’re continuously looking for improved measures to do this.”

CFA introduced crew protection systems, such as water spray deluge and radiant heat shield curtains in all new tankers with 1000L water or more from 2006.

Between 2011 and 2013, CFA also retrofitted the same crew protection systems to all existing pre-2006 tankers.

All CFA crews undertake annual entrapment drills to ensure the continued familiarity with the new crew protection system. The ultralights retrofit program is expected to be complete by the end of 2024.

WSAC turns 50 this Friday

WANGARATTA Sports and Aquatic Centre marks its 50th anniversary this week.

The facility, owned and managed by the Rural City of Wangaratta, was opened on June 14, 1974 by then Victorian State Governor Henry Winneke and Mayor Kevin Howard.

Its inception began in the 1960s when lawn was sewn for a stadium on land originally part of the golf club.

In the early 1970s council began transforming the site into a sporting precinct - building a football oval and pavilion, hockey field, netball courts, access roads and car park.

It was named HP Barr Reserve in honour of HP Barr, who served as City of Wangaratta mayor from 1964 to 1967.

In the 1980s a further six squash courts were added to the stadium and in the

1990s an upstairs addition for fitness and aerobics was opened.

Aquatic facilities were added with the opening of the current 25 metre indoor heated pool and program pool on June 8, 2002.

The centre remained mostly in this form until recently, when in 2020 council

began the latest redevelopment, including a new 50m outdoor pool, warm water pool, 24/7 gym with stateof-the-art equipment, and the stadium upgrade which is nearing completion.

Rural city sports, aquatic and events precinct manager, Sonya Dalgliesh, said council is proud to provide

A sample blood test can provide early detection for prostate cancer

NORTHEAST Health

Wangaratta (NHW) is encouraging men to get a simple blood test to check for prostate cancer on the 30th anniversary of Men’s Health Week.

Men’s Health Week, which runs until June 16, is this year focusing on men’s health checks.

Some 50 men in Australia die each day from preventable causes, that’s 18,000 a year, but encouragingly health checks can reduce this number, because early detection is the key.

Sam Cooper from NHW Cancer and Wellness Service said men can get a simple blood test that can help early detection of prostate cancer.

“Men should get the blood test from aged 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer, and at 50 years if there is no family history,” Sam said.

“The relatively lowinvasive procedure can provide early detection of cancers when there may not be any symptoms.

“Early detection is the key for many diseases and enables time for treatment options that can lead to better outcomes, including a greater likelihood of total recovery.

“There are simple checks that men can have, through making an appointment with their GP, to make sure they are on

top of their health status.”

The NHW Cancer and Wellness Services supports men with any form of cancer, including treatment onsite at the hospital campus and supportive care through diagnosis and treatment.

“Our service provides holistic support for men as they navigate a cancer diagnosis and treatment, to help with their physical, emotional, and practical needs,” Sam said.

“This might be referrals to our services and programs, talking through practical problems, and support with managing their health during treatment and recovery.”

Da Vinci Social Club will be rocking tomorrow

PERFORMERS Lucky Starr and Rodney Vincent will present an afternoon of entertainment for all at Da Vinci Social Club tomorrow from 1pm. Afternoon tea will be provided and is included in the ticket price ($20 for club members and $25 for non-members) available by calling Pip on 0409 307 606 or email dvsc. wang@gmail.com.

this premier sporting and wellness hub for the community and regional guests and is invested in its growth.

“As we celebrate this 50th anniversary, we reflect on the incredible milestones the WSAC has achieved,” she said.

“In the past 12 months, memberships has increased

Community is invited to help celebrate the big anniversary

COMMUNITY members are being invited to help celebrate the 50th anniversary with a morning tea at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre from 9.30am to 11.30am this Friday. Enjoy a coffee, cake and nibbles, mingle with friends, staff, and the community who have supported WSAC for 50 years. There is also a 70s themed Body Pump class at 9:30am, with participants encouraged to dress in their best 70s gear for the occasion.

During WSAC’s birthday month, new members who join will receive 50 per cent off their first month, and all members can go in the running for two weeks free membership simply by coming into the centre and tapping their tag.

by 30 per cent, Learn to Swim membership has also increased to 750 members, and we have successfully hosted five regional swimming events, and multiple school swimming carnivals for our local schools.

“We look forward to continuing this legacy in the years to come.

“Physical activity and recreation play a critical role in the overall health and happiness of our community.

“WSAC serves as a vital resource for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in various physical activities, from swimming and fitness classes to recreational sports.”

FLASHBACK: The stadium opening on Friday, June 14, 1974 was front page news.

BETTER PROTECTION: All CFA ultralight vehicles will be fitted with foam protection to supress flames.

Entries open for 2024 Benalla Shorts

BUDDING filmmakers and video story tellers are encouraged to get their entries in for the 2024 Benalla Shorts, a celebration of short film making.

The Benalla National & International Short Film Festival is now in its 10th year and continuing a tradition of supporting those who want to get a hand-on experience of filmmaking; open to national and international film makers across all ages groups.

Films must be no longer than 15 minutes, and cash prizes are on offer in categories including Best Film, Best Student Film, Best International Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Local Film (within 100km of Benalla) and People’s Choice.

Last year’s local winner was Andrew Flenley from Kyabram for his film “The Honoured Ones” and he said he thoroughly enjoyed the experience, including the festival itself - the annual premiere and award ceremony - which will be held on November 10 this year.

“I cannot speak highly enough of the incredible team at Benalla Shorts,” Mr Flenley said.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for local, national and international filmmakers to get their films presented in front of an audience.

“Everyone was welcoming and kind, and overall, it’s an amazing night for all who attend.”

Australian actress Krista Vendy will return to judge this year’s festival, which will be held at the Benalla Cinema in Mair Street for the first time.

While Krista Vendy is largely known for her roles in popular television shows including Neighbours, where she played teacher Teresa “Tess” Bell, she has also appeared in numerous feature films.

Continuing its close association with local businesses and community groups, anyone who would like to support Benalla Shorts financially or in-kind, is encouraged to contact Anna Smith on 0429 367 236 or email benallashorts@outlook. com.

Short film entries are open until July 31 and submissions can be made via filmfreeway.com/ BenallaShorts, with more information including terms and conditions available at benallashorts. com.

Come join Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra

By JORDAN DUURSMA

THE Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra (WSO) is opening its doors to local musicians who wish to join in the fun.

The community orchestra was established by a committed group of members who are striving to develop a significant musical entity in the North East.

The WSO started in 2021 when local violinist, Sally Ross, called a public meeting and 20 people attended, with membership almost doubling since then.

The orchestra is made up of musicians from across

the region, including Wangaratta, Longdrigan, Benalla, Lima, Bright, Killawarra, Buckland Valley and Tatong.

WSO secretary Wendie Wilkes said the orchestra is eager to support new players to join.

“It’s a community orchestra, we have a reasonable standard but it’s not the Melbourne Symphony,” she said.

“It has been a great source of community and connection for members, especially during COVID.

“Our hope is to continue to build it.

“It is part of the rich tapestry of music in the area, I feel that it completes the

music scene in Wangaratta.”

String, brass, woodwind and percussion players are all encouraged to come along to rehearsals on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at 1 Sisley Avenue.

Former WSO secretary Chloe Stone said the orchestra is a great opportunity for young people who are leaving high school bands and want to continue their musical journey.

“When I left high school, I didn’t have anywhere to go with my music, so I put it down for a couple of years and I really missed it,” she said.

“As soon as I found out there was a local orchestra,

I knew I finally had somewhere I could take it again.

“It provides a gateway for people who are coming out of high school and want to continue music.”

The WSO will perform live in concert at Beechworth on Sunday, June 23 and Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, June 27.

Book your tickets at https://www.wpacc.com.au/ Whats-On/Wangaratta-Symphony-Orchestra-Symphony-of-the-Seas.

To get involved or for further information contact the WSO via email at wangsymphonyorchestra@ gmail.com.

HotHouse Theatre presents: Symphonie of the Bicycle – a hilarious ride of self-discovery

GET ready for an unforgettable theatrical experience as HotHouse Theatre, in collaboration with Brink Productions, presents Symphonie of the Bicycle from June 25 to June 29.

This uproarious and touching one-man show, written by and starring the multi-talented Hew Parham, takes audiences on a comedic journey through cycling, obsession, envy, ambition, winning and losing, and the challenges of mid-life self-discovery.

“This show is an entertaining blend of comedy and tragedy, reflecting the highs and lows of life,” Hew said.

“The music and lighting create an epic atmosphere, enhancing the story I am so passionate about sharing.”

Symphonie of the Bicycle delves into the life of Hew, an aspiring cyclist trapped in a cycle of deadend jobs and missed opportunities.

His story is hilariously juxtaposed with the tale of Gino Bartali, the legendary two-time Tour de France champion who bravely risked his life during WWII to save Jewish

people by transporting documents in his bicycle.

Under the direction of acclaimed Adelaide theatre director Chris Drummond, this show combines outrageous characters

Tickets on sale for The Long Road

TICKETS are now on sale for the Wangaratta Players Inc production, The Long Road, which opens at the Stage Door Theatre in Evans Street on June 14. It tells the story of what happens after 18-year-old Danny is fatally stabbed in a random attack, and how his family struggles to find meaning and forgiveness after their unimaginable loss.

A topical and powerful play which shouldn’t be missed, see it on June 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7.30pm and on June 16 and 23 at 2pm, with tickets at https:// www.trybooking.com/CRRUA.

Experience

Black Box theatre

LOCAL audiences will have the opportunity to experience cutting-edge theatre and a range of thought- provoking and hilarious performances, when the Black Box Series is held in Wangaratta from June 14.

Celebrating the 15th birthday of the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, the Black Box Series will be held over 10 consecutive days in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, bringing the audience and performers within close proximity in an intimate space. Featuring an eclectic series of shows including No Former Performer, Marooned, Stickybeak, Tibetan artist Tenzin Choegyal, Oyster Boy and more, tickets are available now at wpacc.com.au.

Petite Miniature Textiles 2024

with a narrative that spans across time, crafting an absurdly humorous yet deeply moving depiction of the search for meaning and heroism.

In a bid to reduce carbon emissions and encourage eco-friendly travel, HotHouse Theatre has launched the lycra-friendly Green Matinee initiative.

Bike enthusiasts and riding g roups are encouraged to ride their bicycles to the theatre on June 29 of Symphonie of the Bicycle’s 2pm session, making theatre-going a fun, family-friendly outing despite the winter weather.

Rewards for riders include a gourmet pre-show barbecue and discounted tickets.

Participants can prove their ride at the box office by presenting a selfie taken during their journey.

For tickets go to https:// hothousetheatre.com.au/ symphonie-of-the-bicycle/

ONE of Wangaratta Art Gallery’s most popular exhibitions, Petite Miniature Textiles 2024, showcasing innovative textile practice from across Australia in small scale, is now open at the gallery.

This year works included in Petite have been selected by guest curator, artist and previous Petite exhibitor, Susie Losch, and Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt, around the theme “of the times”.

It features 30 works by 22 artists from across the country, exploring a multitude of contemporary concerns from artificial intelligence to affordable housing, and runs until June 23.

Quilts on display at My Little Patch

FOR the month of June, My Little Patch will be showcasing an exhibition of quilts created by Kathy Bickerdike. Come along and be inspired by the display during opening hours at the shop, located at the rear of 49 Reid Street in Wangaratta.

HILARIOUS RIDE: Hew Parham will be starring in his one man show Symphonie of the Bicycle at HotHouse Theatre.

JOIN IN THE SONG: The Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra encourages string, brass, woodwind and percussion players to come along to rehearsals on

7:30pm to 9:30pm at 1 Sisley Avenue.

Stationeers looking to restore station history at new precinct

MURALS created for Wangaratta Railway Station to celebrate the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games have been flagged as one of the options for three artworks to go up at the new precinct.

Artists of all experiences have their final chance to submit their work to be considered to help decorate the new station precinct.

Expressions of interest for sculptural work by a First Nations artist at the station entrance, twodimensional work for the new underpass wall and sculpture work in the rail yard garden are closing today.

The Inland Rail Skills Academy held a skills workshop on June 1 for local community members to highlight the important stories they feel need to be told at the site.

An Inland Rail spokesperson said 10 local artists across the North East attended the workshop, which aimed to develop the understanding, skills and capacity of local and First Nations artists to participate in and tender for opportunities on large-scale projects.

Wangaratta Stationeers member David Maroney

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

attended the workshop and pitched the idea of refurbishing a part of the stations’ history in the 2000 Sydney Olympics mural.

The mural was a community collaboration of art, formed by 23 primary schools, three secondary schools, Wangaratta TAFE, Wangaratta District Specialist School and The Centre for Continuing Education.

It had been standing at the station for 23 years, until the demolition of the old platform last year.

Mr Maroney and ARTC members were able to salvage 11 of the 18 panels.

As a founder of the idea of the mural back in 1999, Mr Maroney said he wanted to offer the schools originally involved in the mural the opportunity to restore the old artwork, before hopefully going up again at the new precinct.

“The ARTC helped us save what we could, some of them are pretty knocked about and weathered,” he said.

“There was some good feedback when we first salvaged them so we’re hoping to get them up again.

“There was criteria when we did the mural, it was the Olympics, the railway’s Indigenous heritage and what we had to offer as a regional area, and they’ve got a similar criteria.”

The three artworks being sought have been commissioned as part of the heritage interpretation plan for the station.

Representatives from council, Inland Rail, the Wangaratta Historical Society and Greenshoot

Consulting will assess submitted artworks and representatives from the Traditional Custodians of Wangaratta will be given the opportunity to endorse shortlisted artists and provide feedback on the proposals.

The Rural City of Wangaratta, in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria, is this week holding an information session for the community and prospective candidates about the upcoming council election. The session, to be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre at 6pm on Thursday, June 13, can be attended in-person or online. The session will cover local government, role and responsibility of a councillor and the election process. For more information visit mav.asn.au/stand-forcouncil-2024.

Benalla CFA to get new pumper

BENALLA CFA will be among the first 10 brigades in Victoria to receive a new pumper to be built at Wendouree-based SEM Fire and Rescue.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, made the announcement last week while visiting the business.

She said Wendouree, Sebastopol, Kangaroo Flat, Eaglehawk, Narre Warren, Rochester, Emerald, Bairnsdale and Lorne will also be receiving new pumpers.

The pumpers have a capacity of 4000 litres of water every minute, can seat five crew members and are equipped with breathing apparatus, and chemical protection suits stowed in lockers on board the pumper.

LOOKING TO RESTORE: David Maroney (left) and McConnell Dowell site supervisor Tony Roman salvaged 11 boards of a 23-year-old railway station mural last year, which Mr Maroney hoped could be restored and used as one of three artworks to go up at the new precinct.

From grasstrees to wetlands, art exhibition officially open

By JORDAN DUURSMA

AN exhibition in Wangaratta kicked off to a successful start with more than 30 people attending the official opening last Wednesday evening.

The exhibition is presented by the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) and includes a wide variety of works which take inspiration from the environment that is unique to North East Victoria.

Local ecologist, Ian Davidson from Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability was the guest speaker for the opening and shared important issues surrounding both grasstree and wetland ecosystems with the crowd.

The exhibition includes 22 works created by 14 different artists, showcasing a variety of mediums and materials.

See the exhibition at the Bainz Gallery, in the foyer of the Wangaratta Library until Friday, June 28 during library opening hours.

LOCAL EXPERTISE: Local artist Paddy Milne with Ian Davidson, who shared a talk on the importance of healthy ecosystems.

PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

AND PRINTMAKER:

GRASSTREES IN THE MIST:

Jan Osmotherly with her work

‘Grasstrees in the Mist’ and Jillian Kimber.

BARKING MARSH FROG: Kerryn Taylor with her work ‘Barking Marsh Frog’.

A WINTON VISIT: Eileen Sidell with her work ‘A Winton Visit’ acrylic, cardboard, texta and paint.

LOCAL TALENT: Helen Hill with her work ‘The Lunette’, an acrylic on canvas painting of the Winton Wetlands.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Michael Reiher, Ian Minns, Mary Reid and Paul Ryner were just a few of the crowd who came along to support the exhibition opening.

PAINTER

King Valley artist Anita Laurence with her linocut work ‘Grasstress and Granite’.

PERFECT PAIRING: Tim Dickinson, Rachel Arndt and Andy Kimber enjoying a glass of wine and beautiful artworks.

Greta students share their research on war veterans

AN insightful project has helped young people in the Greta region connect with their community and its rich history, while gaining an understanding of life and the war experience in a meaningful way.

Students in grades three to six at Greta Valley Primary School spent five weeks researching a soldier buried or remembered in the Greta cemetery, presenting their work at the community’s ANZAC Day service.

With the support of school principal Howard Gibson, we are sharing what they found out through their investigations.

The project has also shown that many of today’s residents have a familial connection to those who called Greta home generations ago.

In our second instalment, student Lachlan Osborne shares what he found out about William Petty.

William Petty was born in Greta.

William had two sistersLavinie and Sarah, and his mum’s name was Mary Ann Gillon, while his dad’s name was John Bates Petty.

William was 20 when he went to the Boer War.

He did not have a wife at the time.

William fought in the Second Boer War in the rough conditions of South Africa as a bushman.

His service number was 616.

His first rank was Trooper and his final rank was a Private.

William did not have any physical injuries but he died in Pretoria, South Africa

in 1900 with a fever named Typhoid fever.

At one point of time in a battle, William and one other soldier took cover behind a rock.

It was a dangerous position and he had a bullet hit the ground near him.

The Second Boer War started on October 11, 1899 and it was done by May 31, 1902.

It was fought in South Africa and there were 16,175 British and Australians against the 88,000 Boers.

William Petty is not buried in Greta, but there is a monument to remember him and his service.

There is a grave for him in Pretoria, South Africa.

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?

By Peter Ne son, Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist

Our weather in May was quite unusual

LAST month can be considered quite unusual in weather terms.

Wangaratta’s mean maximum temperature for May was 19.6 degrees, which was more than two degrees above normal and the equal warmest with 2005.

Other warmer Mays were in 1902, 1938 and 1947 when the mean maxima were just over 20 degrees.

The mean minimum temperature for May was 1.8 degrees, which was nearly three degrees below normal and the third coldest behind both 1902 and 2005.

Despite widespread heavy rain at the end of May across several districts of the nation, Adelaide still managed to record its driest ever February to May period in 183 years of records with only a bird bath total of 25.4mm.

Other very dry February to May periods in Adelaide were 42mms in 1870, 43mms in 1891 and 33.4mms in 2005.

The probable main reason for the extreme dryness in Adelaide is that sea surface temperatures along the South Australian coast from Ceduna to Mt Gambier since February have been two or three degrees below normal.

And it has also been very dry at Ceduna and Mt Gambier as well.

The City of Melbourne recorded its highest temperature for May of 20.4 degrees on May 30, which does not happen very often.

Past occurrences were in 1872, 1898, 1909, 1920, 1940, 1954, 1960 and 2004.

It’s an interesting situation indeed because all these led to a summer season in Victoria and the Riverina notably hotter than normal, although it was wetter further north up to Queensland.

Sydney’s deluge of 142.6mms on Sunday, June 2 was its wettest June day since 150.6mms on June 11, 1991.

RESEARCH PROJECT: Student Lachlan Osborne (above) chose to learn more about William Petty (inset). William is buried in South Africa, but there is a monument in Greta to remember him.

Junior Reporter Club

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 What is a jail also known as (6)

8 To be charming is to be what (8)

9 What is an assumed or false name (6)

10 To be movingly expressive is to be what (8)

11 What are circus jesters called (6)

13 Name a Danish fairy tales author; Hans Christian ... (8)

16 What are feasts also known as (8)

19 To formally withdraw from an alliance is to do what (6)

22 To give up one’s throne is to do what (8)

24 Name an epistle of Paul in the New Testament (6)

25 Which term implies that which is the most verdant (8)

26 What is a registered nurse called (6)

DOWN

2 Which term implies a relationship to the kidneys (5)

3 What is a tendon also called (5)

4 What do we call one having the same name as another (8)

5 Which hockey-like game is played on horseback (4)

6 Name a large ferocious spotted feline (6)

7 To catch a glimpse is to do what (6)

12 What are some beasts of burden called (4)

14 Name another term for puddings (8)

15 What is an external covering for the human foot (4)

17 Who was the husband of Queen Victoria (6)

18 What are sets of 24 uniform sheets of paper (6)

E-QUATIONS

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

Solve

20 What are groups of tents in one place (5)

21 Which term means to move to music (5)

23 What are non-human anthropoids (4)

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

1 DISSONANCE (a) False pretension (b) Want of harmony (c) Scattered attention

2 ENCOMIUM (a) A cross worn on the breast (b) A cabinet made to fit in a corner (c) High commendation

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

CLUES:

Fermented bean sauce (3)

Filled pastry (3) Fire-bugs (coll) (5)

Grates (7)

Heraldic phrase: family ... (5) One thousand million tons (7) Pulse Code Modulation (3) Vacant (5) Very small animal type (5) Your Eyes Only (3)

Region’s late autumn rain may still come at a cost for cattle producers

BY KURT HICKLING khickling@ nemedia.com.au

VETERAN local cattle producer Mike Willoughby, like many, was happy to see heavy rainfall in late May, but even with follow up rain he said the timing might be too late as many cattle producers face a potential uphill battle on the farm and at the market.

With the autumn break classed as a disaster for some, a lack of rainfall and drier than average conditions have made circumstances very difficult with cattle producers being forced to dry seed and continue to purchase hard feed, driving up costs and reducing margins at the store sales.

Mr Willoughby, who has been on the land for 55 years and breeds Angus steers on his 200 acre property at Hansonville, says there are a number of current challenges that cattle producers are facing that will not be going away in a hurry.

“The dry autumn period is one of the issues why the cattle prices are down,” he said.

“Further to that, fuel pric-

es, feed prices and cartage costs are all up which creates pressure on farmers by closing the profit gap.

“With reflection of onfarm costings and a market that has not been strong for some time, it is really creating pressure on some producers who have been forced to sell due to no feed,

feed costs or both.

“I have been fortunate enough not to feed out my stock which has kept costs down, however I am one of the lucky few in the district.”

Mr Willoughby said the late rain last month and hope more continues has not solved the problem for many producers, as there is no

grass in paddocks despite the application of dry sowing.

“The big problem with the rain coming late is that soil and ground temperatures are dropping rapidly more so on the frosty nights which is not ideal for some seeds that have been sown,” he said.

“As a consequence, the

green shoots as they sprout will potentially be damaged because of frost and subzero conditions.

“Again, the autumn break with rain was our window as surface and ground temperatures are warmer giving the young plants a chance to germinate before the cooler months set in.

MANAGINGTHELATE BREAK-FODDERFEED TESTS&PASTURE DECISIONMAKING

WORKSHOPWITHNICKLINDEN ANDJASONTROMPF

FREEFODDERTESTSAVAILABLE

Howtointerpretyourfeedtestsandapplythe informationwhenpurchasinghayorsilage. Usefeedtestresultsforfeedbudgets Whataretheeffectsofalatebreakonanimal conceptionratesandpasturedecisionmaking AgricultureVictoriainformationandsupportto farmersinNorth-EastVic

Date: Monday24June2024

Time: 9.30amfor10amstart-1pmfinish Where: QualityHotelWangarattaGateways, 9-37RyleySt,Wangaratta Cost: Free-Lunchprovided

RSVPbyWednesday19th Juneforcateringpurposes. Bookearlytoavoidmissing out.

BookonlineviatheQRcode, orvisit: https://tinyurl.com/y3ru7anj

“Our property received 87mm recently and with another 30mm predicted this week which is very handy, but too little too late for some cattle producers who have nothing in paddocks right now.

“Recent and short term predicted rain is not our quick fix.

“Local producers are in various situation with some having no affect on conditions and others who are feeling the pinch, however, farmers will maintain through winter with our primary goal which is to wait until spring where the weather will warm up and conditions improve.

“The issues at hand on the land play a role in how the current market plays out, with prices being steady but not a strong as they need to be.

“Again, with the autumn break having an impact as we move forward into winter, the market is very fickle at the moment being an unregulated market.

“As farmers, we work darn hard and try to adapt to variable change and must remain positive that the latter part of the year will swing in our favour.”

ABOUTTHEGUEST SPEAKERS:

NickisaLivestockIndustry DevelopmentOfficerwithover20 yearsexperiencewithAgriculture Victoria.

Nickisanexpertininterpretingfeed testsanddevelopingfeedbudgets. Nickworkswithfarmersandindustry networksontrialstoincreaselivestock productivity.

JasonfromLambsAlive hasbeenworkingasanAgricultural Consultantforover20years.

Jasonhasastrongbackgroundin understandingthedriversand motivatorsofsheepandbeef producers.

Heleadstheindustryindesigning programsthatassessandevaluatethe impactofewenutritiononeweand progenyperformance.

AgricultureVictoriaisworkingwith Victorianfarmersandindustryto preparefor,respondtoandrecover fromnaturaldisastersincludingfloods andstorms.

ForinformationontheGeckoClan LandcareNetwork,visit geckoclan.com.au

Thisprogram/projectreceivedfundingfromtheAustralianGovernment’sFutureDroughtFund

NICK LINDEN

JASON TROMPF

STILL A CHALLENGE: Cattle producer Mike Willoughby says the current outlook is uncertain for some, given the on-farm costs such as hard feed (inset). MAIN PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

UPCOMING SALE –WATCH THIS SPACE!

Car and caravan package deal, lots of extras, ready for travel. More information coming soon.

MALE looking for male or female for fun and company. Ph 0435 590 755.

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

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

TILING, wall/ floor, bathrooms, renovations. Phone Claude 0435 945 513.

available for a Parts Manager. Responsibilities include:

• Sourcing and ordering parts

• Liaising with our parts suppliers

• Receiving and checking all inward parts & supplies Skills & Experience:

• The successful applicant will be self-motivated with an enthusiastic, professional and mature outlook.

• Must be able to demonstrate good verbal & written communication skills.

• Be able to work in a busy environment and multi-task.

• Strong computer and time management skills. Previous experience in vehicle industry recommended but not essential.

If you think you are suitable for this position and would like to join our team, please email a covering letter and resume with references to admin@premierpanels.com.au

ANGUS Bulls, very quiet, great EBV’s. Murramungee Angus Stud, visit mmas.com. au or phone Howard on 0429 809 288.

2022 GLX Prado, local car, full warranty, as new, 59,000kms, reg (1WQ9ZO), bull bar, driving lights, roof racks, Anderson, Redarc, electrics, $69,000. Ph 0415 665 327.

YELLOW Hyundai sedan, 2000, (1YM9QQ), 218,242km, great car for new drivers, 5 speed manual, $4500 ono, located Mansfield. Ph 0439 719 529

HOLDEN Captiva 7 CG

Gen. II, 132,900km, 2012 4cyl petrol 7 seats; aircon, sunroof, recently spent $10,000 on complete transmission rebuild, valve body and struts (AT still under warranty), 2nd owner, reg (1FY4LC), $13,500 or best offer. Contact Peter 0419 415 703.

2018 Subaru MY18

Premium Outback

3.6R 6 cyl station wagon with sunroof, 99,500km, one owner, full service history, reg (ATIB). Contact George

100,000km RWC, reg (AVG243), full service history, tow ball, adjustable

VOLKSWAGON Golf

GTI 2019 Mk7.5, fully optioned, sunroof, heated seats etc, full service history with VW, major service just completed, grey colour, black leather interior, tinted windows, dash cam, reg (1PA7CR), 85,000km, $35,000. Ph 0402 205 836.

FOR GENUINE SALE – reduced price, Jayco Silverline Outback 2016 21’6” long offroad van, the Silverline range is the top model in this van with all quality fittings and appliances, excellent condition, travelled approx. 6000km (all on bitumen roads), independent 4 wheel suspension, electric brakes, electric break away safety system, reversing camera, all the normal quality appliances e.g. 3-way fridge, gas electric stove and oven etc., gas electric hot water unit, electric queen size slide out bed, microwave oven, solar panel with 2x deep call batteries, split system aircon and heater, electric washing machine, new TV, pull out awning with 2x wind stiffeners, complete package with over $10k in extras, has to be inspected to see true value of what is included, $55,000 negotiable. Ph 0407 218 028.

FARM machinery for sale: extra heavy duty Hayes ripper with pipe layer, new $600; heavy duty 20 Pl offset discs, trail or TPL $1500; Kubota B6000 TPL, PTO, Dif lock, 4FWD, with 3 rotary hoe $4000 and Zector 35HP Tractor with page 5’6” slasher $4000. Call (03) 5764 4332.

RABBIT or Guinea Pig cage, 2m x 1m, $40. Ph 0434 563 179.

HYSTER forklift, new gas bottle, new battery, $5200. Ph 0427 936 630.

WATER Tank, 2000ltr, $150. Enquiries 4 Orr Street, Wangaratta.

WHEELIE walker, as new, excellent condition, red, $100. Ph 0427 549 021.

Position Vacant – Parts Manager Premier Panels Wangaratta has a position

Magpies fall to Wodonga Raiders

WANGARATTA Magpies’ senior netballers’ unbeaten run for season 2024 came to an end on Saturday, beaten by Wodonga Raiders, 45 to 43.

The top of the ladder battle kept the enthusiastic crowd at the Wangaratta Showgrounds entertained, with Raiders holding a slender two goal lead at quarter (10-8) and half time (20-18).

The Magpies gained the ascendency however with a huge third quarter, leaading by five goals (36-31) into the final change.

Raiders restled back the lead with a solid fourth quarter and their two goal win sees them now equal on points (32) with Magpies, who remain on top with a better percentage.

JUMPING JACK: Leah Jenvey (main photo) leaps for the ball.

PINPOINT: Brook Thorp (right) finds her teammate in Wangaratta’s two goal loss to Wodonga Raiders.

SHARP SHOOTER: Amanda Umanski (below) nets one of her 29 goals.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

WINNERS AND LOSERS

BEST: WANGARATTA: Callum Moore, Harrison Hewitt, Charlie Naish, Daine Porter, Aidan Tilley, Liam Mcveigh. WODONGA RAIDERS: Cameron Ellis-Yolmen, Archer Scammell, Bradley St John, Connor Taylor, Cooper Daly, Harry Sweetman. GOALS: WANGARATTA: Callum Moore 9, Liam Mcveigh 3, Daine Porter 3, Fraser Holland-Dean 1, Will O’keefe 1, Nick Richards 1, Charlie Ross 1, Jessie Smith 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: Jason Burke 2, Charlie St John 1, Harry Sweetman 1, Connor Taylor 1.

COROWA RUTHERGLEN 4.1 5.1 9.2 11.4.70

LAVINGTON 3.6 7.14 12.16 13.18.96

BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Tyler Roos, Ryan Eyers, Nathan Dunstan, Sam Dunstan, Nicholas Wright, Bailey Pirnag. LAVINGTON: Benjamin Ashley-Cooper, Shaun Driscoll, Tim Oosterhoff, Christopher Annett, Jack Driscoll, Darcy Smith. GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Sam Dunstan 5, Darcy Hope 2, Jedd Longmire 1, Jason Marks 1, Bailey Minogue 1, Tyler Roos 1. LAVINGTON: Jake O’Brien 3, Benjamin Ashley-Cooper 2, Shaun Driscoll 2, Tom Hargreave 1, Tim Oosterhoff 1, Josh Roscarel 1, Charlie Sanson 1, Darcy Smith 1, Conor Willis 1.

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

Wangaratta 43 def by Wodonga Raiders 45

Yarrawonga 57 def Wangaratta Rovers 39

Wodonga 50 def by North Albury 65

Myrtleford 46 def Albury 45

Corowa Rutherglen 56 def Lavington 25

B GRADE Yarrawonga 50 def Wangaratta Rovers 40 Wangaratta 48 def Wodonga Raiders 41 Wodonga 45 def by North Albury 46 Myrtleford 58 def Albury 32

Corowa Rutherglen 37 def Lavington 35

C GRADE Yarrwaonga 38 def Wangaratta Rovers 31

Wangaratta 42 def Wodonga Raiders 38

Corowa Rutherglen 44 def Lavington 33

Myrtleford 36 def by Albury 39

Wodonga 49 def by North Albury 64

17 & UNDER Yarrwonga 20 def By Wangaratta Rovers 70

Corowa Rutherglen 39 def Lavington 36

Wangaratta 34 def by Wodonga Raiders 40

Wodonga 85 def North Albury 47

Myrtleford 49 def Albury 34

15 & UNDER Yarrawonga 29 def by Wangaratta Rovers 72

Corowa Rutherglen 26 def by Lavington 77

Wodonga 58 def North Albury 38

Myrtleford 31 def by Albury 38

Wangaratta 26 def by Wodonga Raiders 60

Wangaratta 7.9.51 def Wodonga Raiders 1.4.10

BEST: WANGARATTA: Josh Styles, Kade Hadley, Hugh Canning, Keahn Driscoll, Curtis Hines, Chad Donald. WODONGA RAIDERS: Jake Burkitt, Charlie McFarland, Mark Baker, Connor Howells, Blake Capper, Charlie Smith. GOALS: Wangaratta: Max Bihun 4, John Blake 2, Asher Simmonds 1. Wodonga Raiders: Baxter Wilson 1. Myrtleford 4.5.29 def by Albury 12.16.88

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Tai Miller, Jock Pascoe, Jude Browne, Rourke Warner, Oliver Neil, Ryley Skahill. ALBURY: Nash Conway, Flynn Scholes, Jack Shanahan, Harrison Just, Lochie Butlin, Ned Welch. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Rourke Warner 2, Will Graham 1, Cooper Howden 1. ALBURY: Lochie Butlin 3, Sam de Steiger 3, Dominic Dunstan 3, Jack McPartland 2, Nash Conway 1. Yarrawonga 2.5.17 def by Wangaratta Rovers 9.11.65

BEST: YARRAWONGA: Joseph Lee-Conway, Tommy Marriner, seth johnson, Lewis Henley, Jensen Hargreaves, Jim Houston. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Noah Scholte, Harry McMonigle, Preston Coleman, Samuel Allan, Samuel Rourke, Trey Vincent. GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Jack Eales 1, Jensen Hargreaves 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Preston Coleman 3, Samuel Allan 1, Oscar Clelland 1, Ryley Ely 1, Cooper Gracie 1, Cody Johnson 1, Bay Pellegrino 1.

Corowa R’glen 4.4.28 def by Lavington 13.11.89 Wodonga 6.4.40 def North Albury 9.12.66

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Murphy-Dale, Matthew Munro, Ashton McPherson, Toby Cossor, Josh Muraca, Frazer Dale. ALBURY: Fletcher Carroll, Ben Kelly, Isaac Muller, Charlie McGrath, Elliott Powell, Anthony Miles. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Murphy-Dale 5, Levi Young 2, Diesel Batey 1, Toby Cossor 1, Charlie Crisp 1, Simon Curtis 1, Brody Ricardi 1. ALBURY: Brayden O’Hara 3, Elliott Powell 2, Fletcher Carroll 1, Oliver Hayes 1, Kolby HeinerHennessy 1, Jackson Kelly 1, Charlie McGrath 1.

BEST: YARRAWONGA: Daniel Howe, Ned Pendergast, Leigh Masters, Perry Lewis-smith, Ryan Einsporn, Lach Howe. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Jace Mcquade, Brodie Filo, Xavier Allison, Dylan Wilson, Alex McCarthy, Justin Lewis. GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Matthew Casey 2, Bailey Frauenfelder 2, Daniel Howe 2, Lach Howe 1, Nicholas Irvine 1, Perry Lewis-Smith 1, Tyler Lovell 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Lochie O’Brien 2, Will Christie 1, Justin Lewis 1, Alex McCarthy 1, Samuel Murray 1.

BEST: WODONGA: Jack O’Sullivan, Charlie Morrison, Ollie Greenhill, Joshua Mathey, Liam Andrews, Connor Brodie. NORTH ALBURY: Fletcher Ramage, Cayden Winter, Jack Penny, Harry Weaven, Isaac Campbell, Cody Gardiner. GOALS: WODONGA: Jett Cassidy 2, Reuben Bourke 1, Noah Bradshaw 1, Zac Harding 1, Joshua Mathey 1, Jack O’Sullivan 1, Matthew Wilson 1. NORTH ALBURY: Nathan Dennis 2, Joshua Minogue 2, Keith Tallent 2, Foster Gardiner 1, James Webb 1.

Tom Crisp, Leigh Corcoran. ALBURY: Joseph Muller, Harry Cameron, Fletcher Hart, Chas Retallick, Zachariah Packer, Samuel Male.

‘Pies thump Raiders by 101pts to make it five wins on the trot

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA Magpies’ senior footballers are well and truly rolling, with their 101-point victory over Wodonga Raiders on Saturday their fifth win on the trot.

The ‘Pies virtually put the game beyond doubt after just the first quarter when they bridged a 54-point lead at the first change, finishing with a 20.21 (141) to 5.10 (40) win infront of a jubilant home crowd at Norm Minns oval.

Forward spearhead Callum Moore continued his ridiculous form with nine majors, making it 38 goals from his past six games.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid was content with the win, but could still see room for improvement.

“In the end we did what we had to do,” he said.

“We played some good footy but probably didn’t finish off in front of goal as well as we would’ve liked.

“That was probably the only downer I thought, we just didn’t make the most of our opportunities.”

While Moore had a massive day in front of the sticks, his bag could’ve been a whole lot bigger.

“He kicked 9.9 in the end and to three quarter time he had 3.7 so he could’ve had an even bigger day,” Reid said.

“We had a fair spread of goalkickers but he got a heap of looks and was the beneficiary of some good work up the field.

“He’s in some fair form at the moment and is extremely dominant in one on ones.”

Magpies youngster Harry Hewitt learned plenty of lessons playing on Raiders’ man mountain Cam-Ellis Yolmen for much of the day.

“Cam had a good battle with Harry Hewitt for a lot of the day and Daine Porter played on him a bit too,” Reid said.

chances cost gallant Rovers MATCH REVIEW

■ From back page

While the Hawks fell, Murray isn’t stressing.

“We know where we need to improve, it’s not like we’re scratching our heads wondering what to do,” he said.

“We’re very aware of what’s gone wrong, we just haven’t put teams away – against Wodonga we dominated the major stats

(Callum Moore) He’s in some fair form at the moment and is extremely dominant in one on ones.

- coach Ben Reid

“Cam (Ellis-Yolmen) got a bit of it in the end but I thought we got him on the spread a few times which was pleasing.

“Harry played a good game, as did Aidan Tilley who took some grabs down back, ‘Bords’ (Michael Bordignon) and Cam Barrett were good and Daine (Porter) kicked three in the first quarter and I’m not sure how many times he would’ve done that.”

Wangaratta has a bye with the next round’s split round before facing Wangaratta Rovers at WJ Findlay Oval on June 23 which shapes as a massive derby.

“We did what we needed to, our ball movement was good but now we look forward to our next game pretty quick,” Reid said.

“We’ll rest up next week before a massive game in a fortnight’s time.”

The win takes the Magpies to fifth on the ladder with a 5-4 record after starting the season 0-4.

was the only player to kick multiple majors finishing with two, while Brodie Filo and Xavier Allison were prominent. Missed

but lost and then we didn’t take our opportunities today.

“We can fix it, we’re going to work hard to fix it over the bye before facing Wangaratta who have no problems scoring.”

Rovers backman Jace McQuade had one of the games of his fledgling career, keeping gun key forward Leigh Williams goalless for the first time

since round one.

“Jace kept Leigh Williams goalless which was a massive effort,” Murray said.

“He’s a young 22-yearold so to do that against an established forward was a great effort.

“He deserves the credit he gets because he puts the work in.”

For the Hawks, O’Brien

Jace

last

HUGE EFFORT:

McQuade (pictured

year) held Yarrawonga gun forward Leigh Williams goalless in the Rovers’ 24-point loss.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

WRAPPED UP: Wodonga Raiders swoops on Daine Porter.

YOUNG GUN: Will O’Keefe sends his side forward.

PURPLE PATCH: Callum Moore booted nine majors in Wangaratta’s win.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

MID SEASON FEATURE

It’s only his first year at the club, but Duane ‘Brush’ Haebich is having the time of his life with Goorambat.

The damaging forward leads the league senior goal kicking charts with 53 snags from nine outings, averaging a smidge under six majors per game.

Haebich came to the Bat Cave with a footy resume which would stack up with the best of them, with successful stints at Tungamah, Benalla Saints, Benalla All Blacks and Tocumwal, and more than a few leading goal kicker gongs.

Lured across by Bats coach and good mate Ben Wapling, Haebich wasted no time settling into the new digs, kicking four and six goals in his first two games in the green, gold and silver, before dining out with a haul of 10 in round five.

While his own boot looks to be made of gold, Haebich said he was enjoying this season of football more than any other because of the environment and culture at the club.

“The club has been absolutely unbelievable – it’s probably my most fun year of footy because they’ve just opened their arms up to me and my little fella, he’s six and he just loves footy,” ‘Brush’ said.

“When you get there, you know you’re playing country footy, it’s the epitome of a country footy club.

“I’ve never been at a club that’s so together – I’ve played at a few successful clubs and they’ve all

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

got their groups here, there and everywhere, but this club has just been unreal.

“There’s not one person at that club I wouldn’t go and sit with and have a talk with, everyone’s fantastic.”

Originally brought in as a senior head around a developing side, Haebich had nothing but praise for his teammates.

“With me coming in there, it’s given it a different dynamic,” he said.

“I think I’ve just given them a voice down there where it was just bomb and hope for the best – I’ve got a bit of a voice where I can structure them up and let their potential come out.

“Even the younger blokes at training come up to me and ask me questions, and it sort of blows my mind a bit that I’m having a little bit of an impact on helping them get better, which is what I’m there for, that’s what ‘Wappa’ wanted me there for, to help them get better.

“You’re really starting to see it with Rhys Goodley and Dylan Beavis, even Brayden Stepien, we’re structured better.

“Our captain, Jamie Dunne, I’ve come in and I’m there for him to lean on a little bit

“For a young fella who’s got a lot on his shoulders, a great player and gets tagged nearly every week, the way he’s handled himself is im-

pressive - it’s good to work with a young fella like that who takes everything on board and brings it on a Saturday every week.”

In their 14 years in the Ovens and King competition, Goorambat has made the senior finals series only three times, most recently in 2022.

Haebich feels the time is right for the Bats to flip the competition on its head.

“I think we can do something special,” he said.

“I’ve played in a lot of good teams who have got a lot of talent, but this group, I can just

tell they’ve hungry, I can feel something special’s about to happen with them.

“Our aim is finals, we’ll settle for nothing less - I know we’ve got a few blokes out but we’ve got no excuses and we don’t want excuses.

“We’re not the richest club in the league, we haven’t got all this money to spend on Melbourne players or this and that.

“We’re looking local but we’re looking for people who want to come in and buy in to what we’re doing.”

GOLDEN BOOT: Duane ‘Brush’ Haebich has been in stellar form up forward for the Bats, booting 53 goals in nine games. MAIN PHOTO: Kurt Hickling, INSET: Meredith Tolliday

Haebich talks about Bats’ meteoric rise in ‘24

Page 19 9

Missed chances cost gallant Rovers

WANGARATTA Rovers’ senior footballers fell victim to a quality Yarrawonga outfit at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday.

In the one versus two affair it was the Pigeons who fought back from a three point deficit at half-time to secure a 10.12 (72) to 6.12 (48) win, jumping a game clear at the top of the O&M ladder.

Rovers had a chance to take the lead in the final quarter but squandered that opportunity before the Pigeons finished with a wet sail.

Wangaratta Rovers coach Sam Murray said his side didn’t take their chances.

“We didn’t take our chances early, we won the inside 50s in the first half but didn’t make the most of it,” he said.

“We probably should’ve been four or five goals up but that’s footy and when you keep good sides in the contest they take their chances.

“We have to be better and have to find a way to score more efficiently.”

The Hawks were forced to dig deep when Will Christie (foot) and Stuart Booth (AC joint injury) were hurt, while Lochie O’Brien nearly withdrew pre-game with a back injury.

“It was a gallant effort after we lost a few to injuries,” Murray said.

“Will Christie hurt his foot but he had scans and thankfully there wasn’t a break, Stu Booth hurt his AC joint but fought on and played the game out too.

“It was a brave effort and the boys did well to fight it out.”

■ Continued page 18

HARRY DRIVES MAGPIES FORWARD

WANGARATTA Magpies’ Harry Hewitt was among his team’s best in their 101-point thumping of Wodonga Raiders at Norm Minns oval on Saturday. REPORT page 18.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling