WANGARATTA Show secretary
Charmane Bennett yesterday got a sneak peek at one of the rides set to entertain crowds at the annual event. The two-day show kicks off today at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, and has this year attracted “unprecedented” pavilion entries, with organisers hoping this translates to large crowds flowing through the gates today and tomorrow.
■ Story page 3
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
FIVE objections have been received to a planning permit for the Wangaratta Creative Precinct project, including three from neighbouring propertiesSt 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
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
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.
“We are not against the project or anything that is positive for Wangaratta and its growth and change,”
St Catherine’s Wangaratta chief executive officer
Adrian Johnstone said.
“We do have a good handful of concerns around access and carparking, and how the project impacts on
neighbouring properties.”
St Patrick’s parish priest
Fr Nathan Verallo agreed:
“We have lodged an objection so there can be a clear discussion between the parties involved, because there are issues which are worthwhile looking at.”
Loss of Ovens Street access to nearby properties via a gateway which is earmarked for closure,
and loss of the connected 46-space carpark which is also set to be removed as part of the project, are among the objectors’ concerns.
Two new art gallery spaces planned for the site would be constructed on the existing carpark as part of the $17.5 million creative precinct project.
Mr Johnstone and Fr
Verallo said this would curb parking options for local residents attending masses, funerals and other events at St Patrick’s Church; for families dropping off, picking up or attending events with their children at St Patrick’s Primary School; and for many local residents who used the carpark during the week.
■ Continued page 2
By SIMONE KERWIN
BUSINESSES in the Rural City of Wangaratta with between two and 100 employees are encouraged to apply for mental health first aid scholarships being funded by local initiative Project 365.
The scholarship program was launched at Thursday’s Grit and Resilience Festival Celebrating headspace Day.
It aims to equip the staff of lo-
■ From page 1
They said the closure of laneway access on the subject site, which currently allows vehicles to move in and out of the public carpark and to access carparks on the church site including those currently being utilised by St Catherine’s, would have a significant impact.
It would at least require change to the current conditions of an ‘entry only’ driveway into St Patrick’s churchyard off Ford Street, and both Mr Johnstone and Fr Verallo said a single entry had the potential to create traffic issues on the church site.
St Patrick’s Primary School principal Gabrielle Downie said while the school supported the creative precinct project concept, it had concerns about parking and traffic flow around its Ovens Street campus if the entire public carpark was removed.
“It’s a busy road, and there is limited space already,” Mrs Downie said.
“To lose all that parking will have an impact on traffic flow in the area.”
The three neighbouring parties believe the proposal does not align with the Wangaratta Central Activity Area Urban Design Framework, including through failure to provide for a laneway network between Ovens and Ryley Streets.
They said the “standalone design approach” to the project
cal small to medium businesses with the skills to recognise and respond to mental health issues effectively, thus creating supportive environments for mental health within the community.
As well as being based in the rural city and meeting the two to 100-employee requirement, eligible businesses must be able to meet the attendance and study arrangement for the training, which will take place
in March next year.
There is capacity for 32 individuals to be trained through the program, which will be coordinated by the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program.
Research shows that organisations with staff trained in mental health first aid report higher levels of mental health literacy, reduced stigma around mental health issues, and more confidence in supporting some-
one with a mental health issue. It’s hoped the experience of the 32 people trained through the program will resonate through the community to assist others in learning more about mental health first aid.
Applications for the scholarship program are open until December 13 at https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Grit-Resilience/Mental-HealthFirst-Aid-Scholarships
outlined in the planning permit raised equitable development concerns, and did not take into account the greater precinct area.
For instance, Fr Verallo said with the parish considering future plans for its site, including St Patrick’s Hall, it could be opportune for council to discuss how this may align with council’s creative precinct project.
“What we’re all trying to achieve is all parties coming to the table and having a look at this,” Mr Johnstone said.
“There could be a compromise that will suit everyone; it’s just getting to that round-table discussion.
“This is not about stopping the project or creating hassles; it’s about how we can find a solution
that suits everyone.”
The detailed design for the Wangaratta Creative Precinct was placed on public exhibition between mid-August and midSeptember.
Along with the development of the two new galleries, it proposes an extension to and partial demolition of WPACC and the art gallery.
This would involve demolition of the raised deck to the frontage of the former church hall, demolition of the rear hall extension, and partial demolition of the canopy along the external wall line to the west side of the WPACC.
A council spokesperson said the five objections lodged in relation to the project raised concerns about provision for emergency vehicle access; reduction in parking
creating on-street parking issues; the design not responding to the surrounding context; restrictions to neighbouring properties’ ability to develop; restricted pedestrian access between Ovens and Ford Streets; and delivery truck movements and noise.
The matter is now set to be presented to a forthcoming Rural City of Wangaratta council meeting.
Meanwhile, Rural City of Wangaratta manager of arts, culture and events Simone Nolan said council was continuing to actively explore funding opportunities for the creative precinct.
“This will be explored through sponsorship, philanthropic and State and Federal Government grant opportunities,” she said.
GROWING ENGAGEMENT: The jams and jellies section of the Wangaratta Show has seen significant growth in entries this year, and show secretary Charmane Bennett is looking forward to patrons having the chance to stroll through this and other exhibits during the event, which runs from 9am to 9pm today, and 9am to 4pm tomorrow.
BOOMING pavilion exhibit entries in 2024 offer an indication of the health of the Wangaratta Show, with the 158th staging of the two-day event kicking off on Friday morning.
“It’s unprecedented,” show secretary Charmane Bennett said.
“We’ve had to order in more tags, as we are close to 2000 entries across the exhibits.”
The jams and jellies section has seen particular growth, with extra shelving required to cater for entries.
“The art section is up, photography is up, and the number of new entrants is up; it’s at least a 60-40 mix of regular entrants and people who are new to it this year.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
“We don’t know the reason for the resurgence, but we love it.”
Charmane said the show committee was hopeful this level of interest would translate to large crowds flocking to the Wangaratta Showgrounds to attend the show today between 9am and 9pm, and tomorrow from 9am to 4pm.
Along with all the action in the pavilions and among the livestock exhibits, patrons will be able to enjoy a range of entertainment including motocross stunt demonstrations from Sincs
FMX, a dog jumping competition, the always-popular animal nursery, and the chance to get up-close-and-personal with wildlife via education program Animals of Oz.
There will be music from bands Sweet Buzz and The Swagzters, a new food court space for peop le to relax and savour their favourite show delicacies, and of course the traditional Winsec Savings and Loans fireworks on Friday evening from 8.30pm.
For more information, including purchasing tickets online, visit https:/wangarattashow.org.
au The show office can be contacted on 5721 3280.
By SIMONE KERWIN
GALEN Catholic College is on the lookout for a new principal, with current leader Darren (Darta) Hovey set to move on to a role with Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd (CESL).
Mr Hovey took on the principalship at Galen in 2022 from the retiring Bernard Neal, who had led the school for 12 years; Mr Hovey came from an eight-year stint at the helm of Catholic College Wodonga and had previously worked at Galen for three years from 2011 as deputy principal, learning and teaching.
Parents and carers of Galen students were informed on Monday afternoon that Mr Hovey had been appointed to the role of deputy director of mission and educational development at CESL.
“This achievement is a testament to Darren’s exceptional leadership and dedication, both at Galen College and across the schools he has previously served,” Kate Fogarty, executive director CESL, said.
The art section is up, photography is up, and the number of new entrants is up; it’s at least a 60-40 mix of regular entrants and people who are new to it this year.
- SHOW SECRETARY CHARMANE BENNETT
“As deputy director, he will still be connected to Galen College, as he undertakes responsibility for Catholic identity, learning and teaching, school improvement and safeguarding across the almost 60 Catholic schools and early learning centres within the Sandhurst diocese.”
Ms Fogarty said Mr Hovey’s “visionary leadership over a relatively short period has been instrumental in shaping the Galen College community, and we are all grateful for his unwavering commitment to excellence in education”.
Mr Hovey will continue to serve as Galen principal until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition, with CESL to commence the process of selecting a new principal, which will include a community consultation.
QUESTION: What do you believe ratepayers value most about council and how will you meet that expectation?
Ratepayers value a cohesive council committed to improving our community. Councillors must prioritise the needs of the entire municipality. Ratepayers also seek a council that is transparent, consultative and financially responsible. To meet these expectations, I will promote open communication and collaboration among councillors, ensuring all voices are heard and decisions reflect our community’s diverse needs. I will advocate for transparent processes and consultation with residents to gather their input. I will emphasise sound financial management to ensure council resources are used effectively for the benefit of all ratepayers.
Ratepayers want to see their hard earned rates valued by the council, being spent wisely and for their benefit. As the councillor for a rural ward, roads are one of the main priorities, but overall, we have to achieve and deliver a lot more with significantly less. That is our challenge.
Ratepayers want Local Government to be accessible and responsive to community needs, deliver and provide services and infrastructure and most importantly focus on the business of Local Government.
Community expects council to deliver on its responsibilities. People expect their elected members to advocate for them and to be transparent in decision making. Meeting the expectations of the community is a team effort. Decisions within the council should and will be made through the appropriate channels.
I believe ratepayers value the role local government has in providing local facilities, infrastructure and services. The community also wants council to be transparent and accountable in the delivery and budget spending for these. I am committed to listening to the views of residents, businesses and visitors in relation to their expectations of council in the delivery of facilities, services and infrastructure. I will also speak up for rural communities to ensure the budget allocation is fairly distributed and equitable in our rural areas.
Ashlee FITZPATRICK
I do feel our community have expressed sustaining our main services is a priority at the moment. Council will always have the maintenance of roads, rubbish, child care, our library etc. However, I believe our ratepayers want to see quality maintenance to our services. I will continue looking at our current resources and how we best can utilise these to deliver effective outcomes for community.
In my time working and consulting in Wangaratta and the broader Hume region, I’ve heard from people that they expect council to deliver strong tourism strategies that leverage local assets, economic development that sustains growth and opportunities, rural infrastructure including roads and footpaths, community services, managing flood and fire recovery, and investing in community facilities. I’m know that people also want better and more transparent decision making. I will bring my governance and business skills to assess and prioritise actions and investment across all of these priorities.
I believe ratepayers want a council team that collaborates effectively with the community to achieve positive outcomes in areas where the council can make a difference. It’s essential that our initiatives are innovative, adaptable to current challenges, and open-minded. We must prioritise delivering with a social conscience, ensuring that our community’s needs are at the forefront of our efforts.
For some it is a simple as maintaining a level of core tasks - bins and roads. Working with them on documents such as the road management plans, and waste strategies will keep the basics occurring. Others will look for deeper conversations, and possibly look to services they interact with. Creative needs addressed by the art gallery and WPACC, or events strategy. Again, core services like the library, transfer station, childcare and WSAC will resonate with some residents, and it’s about striking a balance between all these resources council offers.
I believe ratepayers value the things that impact the daily lives that council has the ability to deliver. Council over the years has been used by the State Government in cost shifting, and in recent times more on social issues that have been mandated on councils, that require ratepayer funding and time consuming of officers that are doubling up in parts, of other plans and strategies the RCOW has. One can only raise, in what way is a particularly action benefiting the majority of the community or the majority are supporting such an action.
Strong value for money regarding community rates spend and investment on what rates and other community funds are used for.
Firm belief in transparency on all decisions.
I am a firm believer in balanced views and making informed and researched decisions.
Assess each council project with a community and ratepayer risk and health check in mind.
Ratepayers value due diligence, vetting issues thoughtfully and carefully, and to thoroughly investigate and verify all projects before initiating and commencing an arrangement, either with a vendor, a third party or contractor. They expect dedicated councillors and they have an expectation that all council matters and decisions be made in the interest of the community, and not in the interest of any individual or political point scoring. As such I am running as an Independent candidate as I believe that political affiliations do not belong at a local government level.
Our Q&A series continues with all candidates in Monday’s edition. They will answer the following: How will you manage and justify council rate increases given current cost of living challenges for ratepayers? (Answers are restricted to a maximum 90 words)
I do think the average citizen if asked to prioritise their three wishes would say: roads; garbage; free parking would rank very highly.
Having a person (councillor) that will show up and be honest with them, not just when there is glory to be had but when the going gets tough. Having a person they feel comfortable talking to, expressing their opinion to, asking for help from or wanting clarity from. Having a person they feel supports and represents them. I intend to be that person for ratepayers.
Ratepayers value transparency, accountability, and tangible outcomes from their contributions. Key concerns like CBD cleanliness, public space maintenance, and fair parking fees often arise. I will focus on addressing these issues by ensuring efficient use of resources and maintaining high standards for public services. By keeping communication open and being fiscally responsible, I’ll ensure ratepayers feel their concerns are being addressed and their money is spent wisely on services that directly benefit the community.
Putting aside basic services like road maintenance and rubbish collection, I think we highly value the provision of sports and recreational facilities. I will seek grants from the state and federal governments to expand our recreational facilities, on the grounds that they improve our mental and physical health, increase community connection, and decrease youth misbehaviour. I would specifically like to see more indoor recreational spaces available in Yarrunga so that activities can continue safely in very hot weather and during heavy rain.
BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au
Local government and state MPs this week joined the chorus of concerned voices from Meadow Creek calling for the State Government to reject planning approval for the proposed 330MW Meadow Creek Solar Farm.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees, Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley state MP and Shadow Minister for Water Tim McCurdy, together with Shadow Minister for Roads Danny O’Brien, met with around a dozen residents on-site, to discuss their ongoing concerns that the proposed development does not belong in a valley of prime agricultural land.
A planning permit for the proposed $750m project on a 566 hectare site, which could generate enough solar power to supply more than 100,000 regional homes, is currently before the State Government, with a 28-day public submission process ending on October 28.
“We need people all over the place to put their opposition in to this project and why they oppose it, not just because they don’t like it,” Mr McCurdy said.
“We’re not anti-solar around here, we’re not antirenewables.
“We’re quite invested in wanting to make the environment a better place, but at the end of the day, this is not the right site, it’s not the right place.”
Mr McCurdy said people were frustrated because the “government isn’t listening.... hasn’t come to talk to us... haven’t even visited the site”.
Mr O’Brien said he shared concerns that the state of the local roads simply aren’t fit to support the increased traffic and demands associated with a development of what is proposed.
“This is not about being against renewable energy,
but it’s about having them in the right place with the right infrastructure in place...we’re simply not getting that from this State Labor Government, making sure the roads are up to scratch, particularly in a place like this,” he said.
Mr O’Brien said councils were not getting the support needed from State Government for local roads, and the government should be looking at contributions from developers to upgrade local infrastructure, such as roads.
Mayor Rees, who will not be part of a new council to be elected this month, said the solar farm was “not warranted, not needed” at the proposed site.
“We’ve got communities crying out for solar in other areas where we can’t crop and graze to build communities,” he said.
“This is just tearing communities apart.”
Mayor Rees said the State Government’s removal of the right to appeal a decision
through VCAT - on major projects like Meadow Creek Solar Farm - “was not good for democracy”.
“If this project got approved, the government or applicant needs to put millions of dollars into upgrading these roads,” he said, noting council simply doesn’t have the funding.
“Unless there’s millions of dollars worth of infrastructure from either the applicants or the government to pay for these upgrades of these roads, including sealing, the dust for these neighbours will be astronomical.”
Local resident Susan Davies said she supports solar, but believes the large solar farm doesn’t belong on the proposed site and she is worried about her health from the dust from increase traffic on the unsealed roads, and when they have floods or fires.
“This is fantastic farmland, a productive food bowl and
Dentists:
Dr. Tony Goodison B.D.SC (Melb)
Dr. Joe IbrahimD.D.S (Melb)
Dr. Michael LinD.D.S (Melb)
Hygienists / Therapists: Cathryn CarboonR.D.H (Adel) Anne O’SullivanR.D.T (Melb) Ankit GoelB.O.H (Perth)
a safe rainfall area...why go industrial zone in the middle of it?,” she queried.
She accused the State Government of “vandalism” by removing local government out of the planning process.
“I just feel that we’re got no voice, we’ve been neglected,” she said.
“We’re all standing here trying to yell and bark and just be heard...hopefully someone will come to our rescue and actually listen and come and have a look and realise this isn’t the right spot for a solar factory.”
Darren Edwards, who lives a kilometre from the proposed solar farm site, said he is incredibly concerned about the project going ahead.
He doesn’t want to see prime agricultural land lost to solar facilities that he believes are better suited to other locations on less productive land, and worries about consequences and exposure to any fires and “toxic fumes” if the battery
system catches alight.
“The roads here are a major concern, they flood up to five times a year, and we can be isolated for days on end,” he said.
“There’s been absolutely no consideration or thought for the mental health and wellbeing of people who are in this community...it’s just been bulldozed along.
“We are suffering, and nobody tends to care about our feelings.
“This is our lifestyle”
Ross Schutt, who has lived and farmed near the proposed site for 60 years, said he shares the concerns fellow residents had raised.
And he also worries about the potential financial implications for local landowners on the value of their homes and properties.
John Conroy, a member of the Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group, said the droughtproof valley “that might flood 10 times a year” is not an
appropriate location for the proposed solar farm.
“There is a proposed 250 megawatt, 1000 megawatt hour battery energy storage system for this site....that’s 50 40-foot containers of lithium iron, weighing about 50 tonnes a container,” he said.
“If they’ve got this here and floods come through and it lights a fire or it starts this thermal runaway, who accesses the fire?”
Mr Conroy recently joined Indi federal independent MP Helen Haines in Canberra where they met with federal government departments about the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. The group is hoping the act can be used to stop the development, based on the discovery of three endangered species - Sloane’s froglet, Gang-gang Cockatoo and the Eastern Bandy-bandy snake - known to habitate the proposed site.
LIFEBLOOD’S Donor Centre in Wangaratta is embracing Victorian Seniors Festival by holding an Open Day, providing locals with an opportunity to learn what is involved in blood and plasma donation.
Local residents are welcome to pop into the Norton Street centre on Wednesday, October 16, between 10am and 10.45am to meet the staff, have a tour and ask questions.
Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said seniors can become excellent donors and help save countless lives.
“Lifeblood data shows people aged 60+ are our most reliable and frequent donors, with many donating plasma (the yellow liquid part of blood) as often as every two weeks,” she said.
“Donation can foster connection and purpose, our donors get to know the staff well and their visits to the donor centre become a positive part of their routine.
“Most of all, each donation can make a life-changing difference for patients in need and their families.”
Donated blood and plasma is used by thousands of patients every day. People in surgery, people with cancer and blood disorders and women having babies are among the main recipients.
The demand for blood is at a 12-year high while the demand for plasma is at a record high with no sign of slowing.
Every week Lifeblood requires 33,000 blood and plasma donations around the nation to meet patient needs.
“We have fantastic regular donors in Wangaratta, but there is always room for more,” Ms Burns said.
“If you haven’t donated in a while or are under the age of 75 and are feeling well, you may be eligible.
“I encourage you not to rule yourself out and to visit Lifeblood’s Wangaratta Donor Centre Open Day for more information.”
A blood donation appointment takes around an hour and it’s 90 minutes for plasma.
After that you get to enjoy a drink and snack knowing your donation are helping to save up to three lives.
More than 100 appointments to donate are still available in Wangaratta in the next two weeks.
To book an appointment to donate call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood App.
A STUDENT who has turned his life around after facing numerous challenges has been named the 20th recipient of the Anne Pennington Award at The Centre of Continuing Education in Wangaratta.
Ryan was named the recipient of the award which is presented annually in memory of Anne Pennington, a beloved former staff member who passed away in 2004.
The award honours a client or learner who demonstrates growth in knowledge, skills, care and support for others through persistence and teamwork.
“The Anne Pennington Award is an important tradition at The Centre, showcasing some of our most exceptional learners,” The Centre’s chief executive officer, Sue Geals, said. “We are incredibly proud of all the nominees and congratulate Ryan for being the
recipient of this year’s award.”
Ryan was nominated by Deb Pearce, who praised his dedication to learning and his ongoing commitment to helping others.
Over the past nine months, he took part in a variety of programs at The Centre, including Reconnect as well as some short preaccredited courses.
“His commitment to showing up on time, asking insightful questions, and even staying after class to help fellow students has set him apart as a natural leader and team player,” Ms Pearce said.
“Ryan has shown tremendous growth, not only in his studies but in his ability to lift up others around him.
“I’m so proud of him.
“He’s worked hard, overcome significant challenges, and used his own experience to guide and encourage others.”
Ryan’s journey has not been easy.
Coming from a difficult background, he needed to re-evaluate his goals and aspirations.
Through his time at The Centre, he discovered his strengths and used this self-awareness to assist other students in recognising their own strengths.
His positive influence in the classroom was evident, as he regularly shared ideas for managing assignments, reducing stress, and helping classmates to achieve their goals.
In addition to completing various learning modules, Ryan earned his Traffic Management and White Card, which led to him securing employment.
Ms Geals said Ryan’s perseverance and willingness to go the extra mile, even in the face of personal challenges, reflect the quali-
ties that the Anne Pennington Award seeks to recognise.
Ryan expressed his gratitude for the support he’s received along the way.
“I am thrilled to win the award as this sets a milestone for my positive steps toward upskilling,” he said.
In addition to receiving a framed certificate, Ryan’s name will be added to the Anne Pennington Award book, which is displayed at The Centre throughout the year.
He also received a $500 cash prize, which he plans to use toward furthering his education by studying Caterpillar Operator Training to be able to operate heavy machines and enrolling in a Victorian Rail accredited course so he will be able to work across all major interstate rail networks for cross boarder workers.
Having spent much of my life in this vibrant community I am now ready to give back and serve the people that make our region so special.
My passion is promoting wellbeing and supporting active healthy lifestyles for all. With extensive experience working in the health
connecting with people from diverse backgrounds giving me a unique understanding of the challenges and aspirations of residents.
My four children have been raised and educated here and are actively engaged in local sports which has enabled me to forge meaningful community relationships.
As a Small Business owner I am committed to advocating for their growth and success within a thriving rural environment.
I look forward to earning your trust and support in this journey.
FRIENDS of Wangaratta Art Gallery will gather for an evening of fun, food and trivia on Friday, October 25 in support of the rural city’s much-loved gallery.
All are welcome to be part of this special event, where attendees will hear from internationally acclaimed artist Fran O’Neill about her exhibition Crossing, before enjoying a delicious dinner with local wine, surrounded by the artist’s vibrant abstract paintings in the gallery space.
Over dinner, guests will have the opportunity to test their (art) knowledge and challenge their friends in a 50 Question Quiz.
Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends president Marc Bongers said what began as an idea to hold a quiz night, grew to incorporate a sitdown dinner in the gallery, which happened to coincide with one of the gallery’s major exhibitions.
Fran O’Neill is wellknown in the New York art world, her paintings are included in collections across the USA, UK, and Australia, and she has taught at the prestigious New York Studio School, the Pratt Institute, and the National Art School, Sydney.
“We approached Fran about doing an artist talk on the night and it’s the only
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@
nemedia.com.au
one she is doing - so it’s a great opportunity for those who want to find out more about her work,” he said.
“The quiz questions won’t just be about painting or drawing but will cover a really broad spectrum of the arts.”
Teams of up to eight will go head-to-head to win great prizes and bragging rights in the quiz contest, and while group bookings are most welcome, Mr Bongers said individuals who would like to attend will also be accommodated on a table.
He said all proceeds from the event will support the gallery Friends whose fundraising efforts go towards the purchase of new acquisitions for the gallery collection, along with an annual student art award and events at the gallery.
The Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends are a non-profit volunteer group who act as supporters and ambassadors for the Wangaratta Art Gallery, and membership forms will be available on the night for anyone who would like to join.
Mr Bongers said new Friends are most welcome, and while members get to
enjoy special benefits, like exclusive events, they will also be joining a fun, social group of people with shared interests.
“I’ve been doing photography for nearly three decades now and I love being part of the art scene and being involved with like-minded people,” he said.
“Being part of Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends is something I can do and give back to the community as well.”
Tickets for the Friends Fundraising Dinner are on sale now and include an artist talk, a two-course dinner by King River Cafe and a raffle with terrific prizes to be won.
A cash bar will be available, with wine by Eldorado vineyard, Nomad’s Garden.
Current gallery Friends will receive a free drink when they show their membership card.
The dinner will be held on Friday, October 25 at 6pm in Gallery 1 at Wangaratta Art Gallery and tickets are $100 each with all proceeds going towards the Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends Inc.
Bring friends and family and make a table of eight, or come as an individual and join a team, with bookings available by visiting wangarattaartgallery.com.au or call 5722 0865.
MAYBE it’s the high cost of living, maybe it is all the new ‘life skills’ people learned during lockdown, or maybe it’s just people turning away from online entertainment, but Wangaratta Show organisers have been blown away by the number of exhibits entered this year.
From homemade jams and cakes to photography and knitting and everything inbetween, the exhibits pavilion will be one of the must-sees at this year’s show.
It’s quite remarkable the extent of creative talent we have in the rural city and this is one of the best venues to get a true idea of that depth all in the one location.
There will also be the traditional agricultural show events and attractions which will provide something for every member of the family, most of it in the great outdoors and coming with the price of admission which, at $20 for adults and $10 for kids, is about the best value entertainment you can get.
Of course there are plenty of ways to spend some cash too, from sideshow alley and the food court to the always popular showbags,
Hundreds of volunteer hours goes into the making of each annual show and for that to continue we all need to support it as best we can.
The event runs until late tonight with fireworks marking the traditional climax of the day at 8.30pm, and continues tomorrow from 9am to 4pm with non-stop entertainment and joy to experience until then.
The forecast weather looks near perfect in the mid 20s with only the slightest chance of a shower.
FACEBOOK user this week commented on the search for a new Mohyu police member.
• Gemma Wyllie: Please can it be a genuine local? We don’t need anymore outsiders.
• Cheryl Ardern Jones: Gemma Wyllie If they are a good police officer they will fit into the community no matter where they come from
• Judy Anderson: My father was the policeman
there from 1972 till 1985
• Cheryl Baker: Judy Anderson and was the best policeman I ever met.
• Judy Anderson: Cheryl Baker thankyou...he passed away almost 40 years ago
• Cheryl Baker: Wow doesn’t seem that long.
• Kieran Daly: Chelsea Cleeland I’m the only sherif in town Facebook users this week also commented on a court shortage leaving CBL sidelined again.
I WRITE in reference to the article ‘Pushing for shady city’ in Monday’s Wangaratta Chronicle, where candidates were asked whether they supported increasing trees and shady canopy in the rural city.
I have a disability obtained in Vietnam, causing me to have to use a fourwheeled-walker at home and now have an electric (sit on) scooter to get me around the streets (at last).
I went for a test run the other day and, other than being geographically embarrassed (lost) I was able to navigate the city exc ept for a couple of things - one being the trees along the footpaths.
The top of my head was about 1.4 metres above the ground but found that I was ducking my head to avoid being hit by branches.
This happened very often.
Even some pedestrians I came across were doing the same.
These I thank for waving me on instead of going “off road”.
If the council wishes to plant anything it has to remember that trees require continuous maintenance, something which is missing at the moment.
So if these “would be councillors “ wish to serve they should be careful when making statements to support a minority.
The second item is “hedges” in front of homes.
Most of these were well maintained being cut so that they had a flat top and sides, but some only had the top and house side trimmed.
These inhibited some movement on the footpath.
Geoff Trevor-Hunt OAM JP, Wangaratta
AS we return to voting for our council representatives in Rural City of Wangaratta it seems appropriate to pay tribute to those councillors who are retiring.
Both Dean Rees and Jack Herry have left legacies of their time in service to the people of Wangaratta and should be acknowledged and thanked.
The Rural City of Wangaratta Council has experienced many highs and lows. There are occasions when the State Government sacked the council and ap-
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
• Traceyl Higgott: Extra extra read all about it, Get ya chronical Facebook users this week also commented on the instalation of ‘Bubbles in the landscape’ sculpture.
• Angella Francis: Shelley Younger State funded, not local government funded.
• Karen Tyrrell: A state that has no money either..
• Mitch Howe: Pops Braddles just like the water tower.I’m sure someone
appreciates them
• Tania Hardman: Margy Ressom they still have variations & depth ..... also it gets ‘lost’ on that busy roundabout. It needs to be elevated above the grass and maybe other appropriately related sculpture items could be added around it in the future.
• Erin Comtesse: Tania Hardman it really is underwhelming. It looks so out of place too.
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holidays, the
events and activities to keep primary aged children busy and engaged outside of the classroom. For more information on events running at the Wangaratta Library during the school term, visit https://www.wangaratta. vic.gov.au/Services/Library/Library-events.
pointed administrators.
During these times there were accusations of bullying and poor behaviour by council representatives.
Newly registered voters should acquaint themselves with some of this ‘history’ in making their choice of candidate.
I look forward to the result of this election and appointment of a new invigorated council.
Jane Baker, Wangaratta
THE Motorcycle Riders Association Australia (MRAA) strongly supports the Victoria Police in promoting October as Motorcycle Awareness Month.
As we move into spring more motorcyclists will be on our roads.
The Phillip Island Motor GP on October 20 attracts riders from around Australia and around the world.
The MRAA calls on car drivers to concentrate on the driving task, to be aware of vulnerable road users and to commit to extra care and courtesy this month and year round.
The MRAA also supports the AAA call for improved, more available crash data.
We know most motorcycle casualty crashes involve another vehicle and most
of these crashes are caused by driver error.
Another serious cause of motorcycle crashes are Victoria’s dangerously neglected rural roads.
The MRAA calls on VicRoads to dramatically improve and increase road repairs and calls on the TAC to fund road repairs by local government.
The MRAA will hold a road safety policy forum in the Yea Shire Hall in Central Victoria on Satu rday, October 12. Items for discussion have been submitted by members from across the country. Policies developed will guide the MRAA’s road safety work in 2025.
Damien Codognotto, MRAA spokesperson
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
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FACEBOOK users this week commented on an interstate folk band launching their fifth album in Wangaratta.
• The Vine Hotel: We’re providing this event FREE of charge. All welcome. Family friendly outdoor event. With great weather forecast & daylight savings Facebook users this week also commented on the installation of the ‘bubbles in the landscape’ sculpture.
• Starsky Hutch: I have an idea for the other corner in a
few years…….A gigantic Solar Panel, let’s face it that is what the stupid Labor government wants….
• Shelley Younger: As a rate payer I don’t recall being consulted on this “artwork”. This may well be art, but more suited to a city not our gorgeous rural vista
• Debbie Rollins: Not better to spend the $$ on a stunning garden or more plants.? That looks hideous. What a waste of $$$
• Pops Braddles: Brett Byrne
Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.
NOTE:
looks magnificent don’t you think?
• Brett Byrne: Pops Braddles I have no words. It’ll give all the birds that pinch Mirandas grapes somewhere to perch
• Tania Hardman: Passed it today - very underwhelming .... no depth of colour, just the one solid pale green/yellow colour that looks more like a plastic toy than grapes or bubbles
• Bradley Bevan: Pathetic waste of funds.
• Tony Davidson: I drove to inspect the sculpture today
and my opinion is that it looks tremendous, reminiscent of a bouquet of grapes ripening in late summer, it surrealistically took me away to warm barefoot afternoons sipping invigorating chilled wine riverside with my beautiful wife.
• Sarah Graham: Gateway to the King Valley wine region? Looks like a gateway to a kid’s playground to me!
• Helen Clarke: Money would have been better spent repairing the road to King Valley
X USERS this week tweeted about a jockey completing his first race, NECMA’s cyber security event and a local football club being honoured.
Racing.com @Racing
“I didn’t think I’d be back here this early in my career...” Mitch Goring rode his first race in Victoria earlier today at Wangaratta North East CMA @NorthEastCMA
Tuesday 15 October Oaks Conference & Function Centre, 1-15 Racecourse Rd, Wangaratta FREE code expires on Friday - register at QR code or https://events.humanitix.com/cybersecurity-in-agriculture… Learn the essential digital steps to safeguard your business. Enhance cyber security awareness and risk management.
Football Victoria @footballvic
At the FV Community Awards, we honoured clubs that made outstanding contributions to grassroots football in Victoria. Congratulations to the following clubs: Footscray United Rangers Fitzroy Tigers Futsal Club Wangaratta City Collingwood City
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
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Those
By JORDAN DUURSMA
LOCAL children gathered at the Wangaratta Library last Thursday afternoon to join in a Lego Challenge.
The session was part of the Wangaratta Library’s spring school holiday program and was a chance for primary aged children to test their Lego building abilities and push their skills to a whole new level while getting to socialise with their friends outside of the school environment.
For more information about events running at the Wangaratta Library, visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov. au/Services/Library/Library-events.
FEDERAL Independent MP for Indi Helen Haines has urged the government to help households bring down their power bills through improving access to home battery storage.
Meeting with Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson in Parliament this week, Dr Haines pushed for support of her Cheaper Home Batteries Bill in response to collapsing solar feed-in tariffs and the rising cost-of-living.
Dr Haines said it was past time the government prioritised home batteries to deliver practical relief measures to help households maximise the full benefit of home solar energy.
“Energy bills are one of the biggest costs in a household budget and we need to
support people to reduce their energy costs,” she said.
“One in three Australian households have already taken their power literally into their own hands by installing rooftop solar to reduce their power bills and emissions.
“If those households had batteries to store that energy, they could reduce their costs further.
“That is why we need my Cheaper Home Batteries Bill – to make this technology more affordable and accessible, and to store more clean renewable energy for use when the sun isn’t shining.”
Dr Haines introduced a private members bill in 2022 and again in 2023 to include home batteries in the SmallScale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), with the
This is the missing piece of the puzzle, which would help households use their stored power during peak periods instead of buying it back from the grid.
- DR HELEN HAINES
By JORDAN DUURSMA
GLENROWAN Kindergarten is welcoming the community to come have a look at its newly developed community garden tomorrow (Saturday, October 12) at 11am.
The garden is located out the front of the Glenrowan Kindergarten on the Old Hume Hwy, and is accessible to the public 24/7.
This will be an opportunity for students, their families and the wider community to come together, see the work that the children have done and see
MISSING LINK: Independent MP for Indi Helen Haines said it was past time the government prioritised home batteries to help households maximise the full benefit of home solar energy.
Parliamentary Budget Office publishing an official costing at $3.6 million over four years.
The SRES is responsible for bringing down the cost
of solar panels and the highest take-up-rate of rooftop solar in the world.
“This is the missing piece of the puzzle, which would help households use their
stored power during peak periods instead of buying it back from the grid,” she said.
Dr Haines said she would continue to take every opportunity to push the government to act.
“I raised this with the Assistant Minister of Climate Change and Energy when we met this week, as part of a broader conversation about home electrification,” she said.
“I told the Assistant Minister about the financial pressure being felt by so many people in Indi, with groceries and energy high on the list.”
Changing settings in the electricity sector have seen a steep reduction in feed-in tariff rates and a risk that consumers will be charged to export their excess power
how they can be a part of it.
Free face painting and balloons will also be available for children.
Glenrowan Kindergarten teacher, Sam Grey, said she would love the wider community to get involved with the garden.
“We were successful in a few grants and with the money we received, we have created our veggie garden which will be maintained and looked after by the children and their families at the kindergarten,” she said.
“We have finally got it up and running, the idea behind the opening was to give the
community a chance to come along and have a look at what we’ve been doing and what they can be a part of.”
Funds from Glenrowan Solar Farm’s Community Benefit Sharing Program, Rural City of Wangaratta’s ‘Pitcher This’ grant and ARTC Inland Rail grants have made this initiative possible.
Ms Grey said this initiative will be an educational experience for the children at Glenrowan Kindergarten, helping to establish a shared and inclusive space that fosters community connections and
a sense of responsibility for environmental sustainability.
“The children have looked at seasonal vegetables, what will grow at different times, how to feed the plants and what we need to care for them, harvesting and sharing with the community,” she said.
“I would encourage anyone who is interested in seeing what we’ve created to come have a look.
“We would love the Glenrowan community to be a part of this with us, and enjoy it as much as they like, whenever they like.”
back into the grid.
“I have been talking about the need for this legislation for more than two years, and it is clear as Solar FeedIn Tariffs drop that the time for this change is now,” Dr Haines said.
She said only a fraction of consumers with solar panels were able to harness the full benefit of renewable energy to ease their household budgets.
“My Bill replicates an incredibly successful Government program and it should be a no-brainer for the Government to extend this to batteries.
“Not only will it help households bring down their power bills even further, but it also helps address the challenge identified by AEMO of excess power flowing back into the grid.”
SHARING KNOWLEDGE: Jason Townsend, Russell Sully and Jill Lindquist from Electrify Wangaratta are looking forward to Sunday afternoon’s event at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
By SIMONE KERWIN
PREPARE a plan for your future home electrification with the assistance of expert knowledge and local case studies at Sunday’s Electrify Wangaratta event.
The free session will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre from 2pm to 4pm.
Hosted by Electrify Wangaratta, a Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability working group, the event will feature the expert advice of Tim Forcey, author of the ‘My Efficient Electric Home Handbook’, which was released earlier this year.
Those attending can learn about optimising their home to reduce their energy bills and increase year-round comfort.
The event will include the launch of Electrify Wangaratta’s Home Electrification Guide, an online tool designed to help people transition to an electric home, and a home efficiency Q&A, as well as the chance to win one of three lucky door prizes worth more than $500 (for which registration is essential).
Registration is still open for Sunday’s event, and attendees can also register on the day to be in the draw for one of three lucky door prizes, drawn at the conclusion of the event.
To register, visit https://events.humanitix. com/go-electric-slash-your-energy-bills
OXLEY table tennis competition’s final night for 2024 will be held on Monday, October 14.
Players are invited to wear their favourite sporting gear for the session, which commences at 7pm at the Oxley Hall. BYO bat, $2 entry, and bring a plate to share. For more information, contact June Uebergang on 0497 860 785 (text only).
WANGARATTA Artists Society and Wangaratta-based NESAY are among eight regional community groups that have been selected to receive free communications advice as part of the first Australian Gift of Communication to be held in Wodonga today.
Members from the Yackandandah Community Association, Beechworth Biennale, Albury Wodonga U3A, Lions Club of Wodonga, Alexandra Community Hub, and Alpine Valleys Community Leadership will also be able to workshop their communications needs with a local communications professional.
Some 25 applications were received from across the region.
Chair of IABC Asia Pacific, Ross Monaghan, said the workshop is a support initiative of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Asia Pacific and the Border North East Communicators Network.
“The Gift of Communication has been delivered internationally for 14 years and we’re excited to now offer the first one in Australia here in conjunction with the local communicators’ network,” Mr Monaghan said.
“The network has been convened by Birgit Schonafinger for seven years and with numbers in the profession
growing, we had plenty of volunteers to help out community groups.
“The professional communicators have extensive skills that highlight the breadth of work communications professionals do to support business and community.
“They help with strategy and issues, community engagement, marketing and ensuring consistent and accurate two-way information flows that help organisations and society reach their full potential.”
Mr Monaghan said the strength of community support made it possible to provide the event for free.
“Our idea has been supported by North East Water who provided the venue for free, Indi MP Helen Haines who is donating a prize, Foodshare Albury Wodonga and Mell Milgate from Starfish Marketing, Alison Foscholo from Oak Lane Consulting, Judy Charlton and Birgit Schonafinger from Fishbowl PR together covered the costs of catering.
“We also thank the Into Our Hands Foundation, Alpine Valleys Community Leadership, Border Trust, regional media, Helen Haines MP, Starfish Marketing, Fishbowl PR and councils for helping to spread the word about the opportunity through their networks.”
By JORDAN DUURSMA
AN entire year’s worth of cutting, piecing and stitching will be on display at the upcoming Strictly Quilts exhibition at the Wangaratta Uniting Church Hall
in Rowan Street from Friday, November 1 to Monday, November 4, from 10am to 4:30pm daily.
Each quilt consists not only of fabrics, but also the stories and events which have taken place in the lives of the creators.
They display a wide range of skills and sewing techniques, many of which have been the result of recent workshops and/or classes.
Member of Centre Quilters and the organising committee, Ros Janas, said the committee would like to encourage the local community to visit the display
and help celebrate and appreciate the work of local quilters.
“Quilt exhibitions expose us to a wide range of styles and techniques, they broaden the way we think about art and artists, and they serve as time capsules that document various works being made at any given time,” she said.
“For quilters in particular, exhibiting work in galleries and museums introduces quilts as an art form to a wider audience.”
For the 16th year of this annual exhibition, more than 65 quilts created by
members of local quilting groups within Wangaratta will be on display.
There will also be a stall selling donated handmade articles, to raise funds for the Wangaratta Breast and Gynaecological Services at the Wangaratta Base Hospital.
Entry to the exhibition will be $5 and there will be a raffle with the main prize as a quilt by Donna Hughes with lots of other smaller prizes.
Delicious Devonshire teas will be available and a craft stall packed with gifts for you to buy, just in time for Christmas.
By CHLOE JAENICKE
THE Milawa Oxley Family Fair & Market Day promises to add a range of free activities that are inclusive to all families thanks to a $7092 community grant from the Rural City of Wangaratta.
The event is set to take place in autumn of 2025 and Kelly Timms from the Rotary Club of Milawa Oxley, said receiving the grant was “exciting” and “validating” for the club.
“It feels wonderful to have council’s support behind our vision for the Milawa Oxley Family Fair & Market,” she said.
“This grant allows us to bring that vision to life and offer something truly special to the community.”
Ms Timms said the funds will help offer more inclusive activities to ensure the event is accessible to everyone.
“Inclusive activities for all ages and backgrounds will be a big focus, and we’re partnering with community groups to ensure that everyone feels welcome,” she said.
Other activities on the day will include family friendly giant games, a jumping castle, photo booth, community barbeque, local vendors and more.
“We hope to include a car show that’s sure to attract enthusiasts and families alike, and we’re even looking at the possibility of hosting a bush dance later in the even-
ing to keep the fun going,” Ms Timms said.
She said the Milawa Oxley Family Fair & Market Day is designed to be something for locals to enjoy.
“Although this region hosts many tourist events, we are really looking forward to seeing the community come together,” she said.
“This is a ‘for the community,
by the community’ event, and we hope it becomes a lasting tradition that celebrates and uplifts everyone in the region.”
Ms Timms said she believes grants like this are essential as they provide necessary resources needed to make meaningful projects a reality.
“They help create opportunities for connection and inclusion,
particularly for those who might face financial or social barriers,” she said.
“This kind of support strengthens the community, encourages new relationships, and builds a more inclusive environment for everyone.”
Council’s Community Grants program shared $160,000 through 29 grants to local groups this year.
WANGARATTA police have issued a warning to vehicle owners not to make their vehicles an easy target for thieves.
This not only includes theft of the vehicle itself, but also possessions left in vehicles and even a vehicle’s number plates.
Police records show that 70 per cent of new cars are stolen with their own keys that have either been left in plain sight in the vehicle or at the vehicle owner’s residence.
“Don’t leave keys in vehicles or obvious spots at home,” Leading Senior Constable Helen Parfett said.
“You might as well hand them your car or your valuables.
“Leaving possessions visible in your car and leaving it unlocked is an open invitation for thieves.”
Taking simple measures such as removing all your valuables and locking your vehicle dramatically reduces your chance of falling victim to a car theft or theft from your motor vehicle.
Local police are investigating an increase in the theft of number plates.
It takes less than a minute for an offender to remove your number plates, which can then be placed onto another vehicle to commit crime.
It will take you less than a minute to replace your original number plate screws with the anti-theft number plate screws.
The anti-theft number plate screws are available at the Wangaratta Police Station for a gold coin donation.
FORMER State Govern-
ment MP Tania Maxwell has revived her advocacy in improved oversight of illicit tobacco activity in the state.
The calls come after $30,000 in cash and more than 17kg of loose tobacco was seized by Wangaratta police during a search of a Ford Street tobacco store on September 24.
Officers also seized approximately 1000 illicit cigarettes and 250 e-cigarettes.
There have been more than 100 firebombings in the state since March last year, as crime gangs fight for control of the illicit tobacco market.
Police linked an alleged arson attack at a Murphy Street store on July 27 last year to an alleged dispute between criminal syndicates in conflict over profits from the illicit tobacco market.
Ms Maxwell helped initiate an inquiry undertaken by Better Regulation Victoria (BRV) in 2022 which investigated challenges Victoria faced in the enforcement of tobacco laws.
The report, finalised in May that year, came out with six recommendations for the State Government which included establishing a tobacco
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
licensing scheme, providing clear and effective regulatory oversight and stronger penalties of the illicit sale of tobacco products.
Since the BRV inquiry, Victoria has become the only state in the country without a tobacco licensing scheme with Queensland establishing a scheme earlier this year.
The State Government commissioned a separate inquiry chaired by the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC), who tabled their final report on August 29.
Recommendations including the establishment of a licensing scheme and regulatory oversight of illicit tobacco echoed the BRV inquiry.
Ms Maxwell said the second inquiry seemed like a “stalling tactic” from the State Government, who are yet to implement any of the recommendations of either report.
“When I first initiated this conversation in parliament, State Government wanted to say it was federal’s responsibility and federal wanted to
say it was partially state’s responsibility,” she said.
“State don’t want to take on the entire responsibility for illicit tobacco, and rightly so, however, they should still be able to work in collaboration with the Federal Government.
“Given that every other state has already implemented a licensing scheme, I’m not
sure why Victoria is dragging its heels.”
The BRV report said the majority of enforcement of Victoria’s tobacco laws was carried out by local council officers, who often lack the skills and support to investigate such offences.
Ms Maxwell said this was still the case and remains of
the view the role should be taken on by Victoria Police.
“Local government just can’t afford to track down these illicit tobacco stores and take them to court,” she said.
“And the criminal proceeds around that… the fact that these gangs were the masterminds of bringing in these copious amounts of illicit tobacco, knowing full well that not all of it would be seized when it arrived.”
Policing unit Taskforce Lunar was formed late last year to specifically investigate tobacco-related crime.
“I would suspect they are spending millions of dollars on this new police taskforce, but it’s not addressing the core issues,” Ms Maxwell said.
Premier Jacinta Allan had announced in March the state’s intention to establish a licencing scheme by the end of this year.
Ms Maxwell said she hoped a tobacco licensing scheme could be brought in sooner rather than later.
“It is only a matter of time until somebody is seriously injured or loses a life,” she said.
“Having been in that position of being in parliament I do understand how priorities change, any good government will prioritise the needs of the community.
“I certainly hope they bring in the licensing scheme but what number that is on the government’s priority list at the moment is relatively low.”
Ovens Valley MP and shadow minister for consumer affairs, Tim McCurdy, said the State Government has sat idly as Victoria “raised the bat on a ton (100)” of tobacco shop firebombings.
“The recent wave of illicit tobacco crime extends far beyond metro Melbourne, with towns like Wangaratta being hit,” he said.
“Jacinta Allan and Labor have refused to acknowledge or make public the report from Better Regulation Victoria and continue to sit on their hands doing nothing to stop the wave of attacks.
“If Labor continues to sit idly by then the Victorian Liberals and Nationals will introduce legislation to crack down on illicit tobacco and better regulate the industry.”
“It wouldn’t be all that time consuming to bring that legislation in and have it passed, it’s not something that would be debated for hours.
At Wangaratta Nissan, we have partnered with Loaves and Fishes – Christians Caring and Anglicare to collect donations of non perishable items to be given to locals in need. We invite you to purchase extra grocery items while you do your shopping. Drop into Wangaratta Nissan and place it into our Patrol.
Breakfast items
Coffee, Tea & Milo
Long life milk
have partnered with Loaves and Fishes – Christians and to erishable items to be invite to extra o shopping
LOOKING for some Wangaratta-inspired tunes to enjoy as the warmer weather approaches and the city’s riverside aspect beckons?
Look no further than the work of former local resident and rock musician Nick Cave, who looms large along the local stretch of the Ovens River as his stencilled portrait greets those strolling, running or cycling past the railway bridge where he spent time with his mates as a child.
In his 2022 book ‘Faith, Hope and Carnage’, compiled with friend and journalist Sean O’Hagan, Cave revealed that a number of his songs were inspired by his growing-up years in Wangaratta.
He told O’Hagan that ‘Sad Waters’ was “a true description of the place by the river where we used to swim, and where I would spend so much time as a boy”.
“The willows and exposed tree roots, where we ‘plaited
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
all the willow vines’, that was the shallow wading area,” he said.
“I’ve never been so happy about a song. I remember going back from Hansa studio in Berlin, in the early hours of the morning to my girlfriend Elisabeth’s apartment in Schoneberg, and sitting on the bed and playing it over and over, with a big smile on my face.
“It had something that the best Bad Seeds music has - that profoundly casual, almost offhand way of recording something so that it retains its rawness and stark beauty. And I really like the lyric too. The last verse is beautiful: ‘Mary in the shallows laughing/Over where the carp dart/Spooked by the new shadows that she cast/ Across these sad waters and across my heart’.”
O’Hagan suggested to Cave that the song “evokes the sense of longing and lan-
guor that is such an integral part of childhood”.
“Yes, and I have another
“And ‘Red Right Hand’, too, is basically set there. Those were innocent and uncomplicated days. The moment my parents put me on the train that would take me to Melbourne, things changed, you know, in that instant: things changed dramatically and for ever.” Cave told O’Hagan that, despite some “ill-advised, disparaging comments” he made a decade ago about Wangaratta which he later regretted, “these days, I look back on Wangaratta with nothing but deep gratitude and awe at the unfettered freedom that town gave me as a child - a kind of exalted freedom and innocence I would never find again”.
* ‘Faith, Hope and Carnage’ - Nick Cave/Sean O’Hagan is available to borrow via the Wangaratta Library.
song, ‘Give Us a Kiss’, that is also essentially sung from the point of view of a child, and describes first love and Wangaratta perfectly,” Cave replied.
POLICE are prioritising motorcycle safety this month following a worrying rise in rider fatalities in 2024.
There have been 52 motorcyclist fatalities - including three in the Wangaratta/Wodonga/Benalla regions - so far this year, just one shy of the total 53 rider fatalities for all of 2023.
At the same time last year there were 35 rider motorcyclist deaths while the five-year average for the period is 32.8.
It’s the highest number of motor-
cycle fatalities recorded between January and September in 10 years.
Police are concerned motorcyclist deaths will continue to climb as the warmer weather approaches. October to December is traditionally considered the highest risk period for motorcycle trauma.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir, said police are ramping up enforcement and will further prioritise motorcycle safety over these next three months, with a focus on non-compliant riders, as well as drivers who engage
in dangerous driving behaviour that puts motorcyclists at risk.
He said motorists are being encouraged to be extra vigilant and on the lookout for motorcyclists, particularly when changing lanes or when required to give way.
“We are urging motorcyclists to slow down, ride to the conditions and always wear appropriate protective riding gear,” Ass Com Weir said.
Recent police analysis of this year’s motorcycle fatalities found at least 60 per cent of fatal rider collisions were multi-vehicle colli-
sions, with the majority occurring at intersections.
Failing to give way was cited as the most common factor in fatal rider collisions where the other party was at fault, while excessive speed has been identified as the major contributing factor where the rider was at fault.
More than half of this year’s motorcycle fatalities occurred on roads with a posted speed limit between 70km/h and 110km/h.
Rider deaths have doubled on the state’s regional roads, with 22
fatalities compared with 10 at the same time last year.
Weekends between 12pm and 6pm is the most common time for fatal motorcycle collisions, particularly on regional roads which correlates with recreational riding activity.
Riders aged 18–25 represented the highest number of fatalities to date (16), followed by 11 deaths in the 36–45 age group and nine deaths among those aged 26–35.
More than 90 per cent of the deceased riders were male.
Friday, October 10, 2014
By SIMONE KERWIN
SPOTLIGHT is on its way to Wangaratta.
The popular fabric, craft and homewares store will take up residence in the former Sams Warehouse building, along with current Murphy Street tenant Blue Sky Outdoors, as part of a “relaunch” of Parfitt Plaza.
Stephen Nicholls and George Nikakis, owners of Key Capital which owns Parfitt Plaza, said they expected a positive community reaction to the arrival of the soughtafter national retailer, and were keen to extend their company’s investment in Wangaratta in future.
Refitting and exterior paintwork, featuring the recognisable Spotlight blue, is currently under way on the store in the Parfitt Road shopping complex, but Mr Nicholls could give no indication of an opening date.
Spotlight will occupy a 2150 square metre space of the building, with Blue Sky Outdoors filling out the remaining 900 square metres.
“I think this is going to be an exciting development for Wangaratta and the border catchment,” Mr Nicholls said.
“It will also be excellent exposure for the local Blue
Sky Outdoors operator, who has been trading in town for a number of years.”
Mr Nikakis said the closure of Sams Warehouse at the end of May prompted Key Capital to consider suitable replacements.
He said regular public mention of Spotlight in
community polls, such as those conducted by the Wangaratta Chronicle, indicated it would be a welcome arrival.
Mr Nicholls said it was important to achieve the right mix of tenants in the complex, and with the Kidzarus play centre, Pets Domain and Supercheap Auto already
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trading well, Key Capital believed Spotlight and Blue Sky Outdoors would slot well into the vacant space.
“We know Bunnings has done well in Wangaratta, and this is another high pedigree retailer we believe will do well here,” he said.
“A major tenant like
a long term lease here.”
And Mr Nicholls said Key Capital, which acquired Parfitt Plaza in 2006, was also keen to develop its interest in Wangaratta.
“We would like to do more in Wangaratta in the future, and see this as a relaunch of the site as a destination of choice for the catchment,” he said.
“We’ve always known we had an incredible location with car parks available free of charge, and with this many car parks this close to town, we knew it could always provide a great shopping experience.
“It makes a lot of sense bringing together a major retailer and a site of that quality.
“Key Capital is interested in supporting the growth of Wangaratta.”
Spotlight brings new investment opportunities, and they will be investing in
The arrival of Spotlight and Blue Sky Outdoors leaves just one vacant store in Parfitt Plaza, in the former Curves building, and Mr Nikakis said the owners were keen to hear from any traders interested in that space.
He said it was hoped the shop would be filled in a matter of months.
By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS
SPRING is the time of year when we most often hear frogs calling, especially on warm evenings.
They do this to attract their own kind to breed.
Our rivers, creeks, lakes and swamps encompass a variety of habitats that support many different types of frogs, of which there are about a dozen species found throughout the North East.
Our frogs all need water to lay their eggs and for their tadpoles to thrive.
One species of frog that is heard most in the cooler seasons is the Plains Brown Tree Frog.
Their unique call is issued by males in a series of 3-7 slowly repeated whirring notes - “creeee creee cree cree” and may be heard in the bush as well at the edge of wetlands.
This time of year young are emerging where they mostly hunker down at the base of rushes, grass tussocks, low branches of shrubs or trees and even in vegetable gardens and when breeding, floating
amongst vegetation in wetlands.
The relatively loud call from these small frogs is used by males to attract females for breeding with research showing that the loudest and most sustained calling male frogs are most often successful in attracting females.
Research has shown that female frogs can detect males of their species even through a cacophony of calls by excluding other species call frequencies.
The range of the Plains Brown Tree Frog species is relatively small, encompassing most of north-east Victoria and the adjacent areas of NSW, being replaced by the more common Southern Brown Tree Frog south and west of Euroa.
Plains Brown Tree Frog adults are 20-40mm long, light brown or grey with paler sides and breeding males have a light brown vocal sac (throat).
Like all frogs they lay their eggs in water in jelly clumps usually attached to submerged vegetation and, as with most tree frogs, they have pads on the end of their toes to enable climbing on vegetation.
The small tadpoles are pale golden-yellow to dark grey with dark flecked fin. Try listening to the frogs at a wetland near you at dusk and see how many types you can hear.
The Australian Museum has a useful free mobile phone App FrogID which can help the public identify their local frogs. Is there a “creeee creee cree cree”?
By CHLOE JAENICKE
TO celebrate Love Your Bookshop Day tomorrow (Saturday, October 12), Edgars Books & News will be hosting Wangaratta born author, Isobelle Carmody.
The event will act as an early release for Ms Carmody’s newest novel, ‘Comes the Night’, where attendees can purchase the book for the duration of the event prior to its official released on October 27.
‘Comes the Night’ is a young adult fantasy novel that takes place in a dystopian Canberra that has been domed to protect citizens from extreme weather events and civil unrest.
It examines a world where people give up everything to be safe and follows a 16-yearold boy, Will, who is born into this world.
He soon realises everything
is not what it seems when he discovers the ability to enter other people’s dreams and discovers his own dreams hold cryptic clues that lead him to a shadowy alternate dimension.
“I wanted to look at a world where we gave up everything, including our civil liberties, just to be safe,” Ms Carmody said.
“The inciting event happens before the events of the book with the death of his (Will’s) very intelligent and interesting uncle and the boys are split, so he has this normal childhood but is naïve about the outside world.
“The main character is naïve and the whole idea of him walking in dreams is a way of saying what happens when we allow our hopes and our dreams to be usurped by those in power.”
As the story continues, Will
must grapple with dark forces that operate in both dimensions alongside his best friend Ender and his twin sister, Magda, with the help of a mysterious gift from his recently deceased uncle.
Ms Carmody said her favourite aspect of writing is examining the mental and spiritual journeys of her characters, which often leads her to fantasy stories.
“I always write inside out and in life we make both physical and mental journeys that affect how we see our journey through the world,” she said.
“I enjoy the inward journey where I find what this story means to me the most.”
Ms Carmody said she is eager to support Love Your Bookshop Day as she believes bookshops and libraries provide the best opportunities for people to learn.
EXCLUSIVE RELEASE:
Isobelle Carmody will be releasing her new novel, ‘Comes the Night’ early when she visits Edgars Books & News on October 12.
“A town without a bookshop is like a town without a brain,” she said.
“We talk about the spiritual journey, and I think bookshops are where those things happen as a kid, it’s full of doors into the world, a kid can go into there and go anywhere and find anything in the world.
“They also have events where they draw writers into town so young writers or emerging writers have the chance to talk to writers like me who are willing to share.”
Ms Carmody will also be signing pre-ordered books.
On October 27, the official release date of the book, Ms Carmody will also be supporting Redkite through her donations and ‘The Great Kite Auction’ to support children with cancer.
Edgars will be celebrating all things books from 6.30am to 2pm on Saturday, October 12 with plenty of giveaways with Ms Carmody in-conversation from 2.30pm along with some tasty catering options, so
please register via Edgars website for catering purposes.
The giveaways include penguin figurines with any purchase of two Penguin books. To learn more or RSVP to the free Love Your Bookshop Day celebrations, visit https:// edgarsbooksandnews.com. au/meet-the-author-isobellecarmody/.
For more information on Ms Carmody’s fundraiser visit https://fundraise.redkite.org.au/fundraisers/isobellecarmody/your-way.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
FORMER North East Victoria resident and artist, Clare McCracken’s artwork is currently being showcased in a collaborative exhibition, Wild Country, with Heather Hesterman at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Ovens Street.
Heather and Clare will talk about their exhibition tomorrow (Saturday, October 12) from 1pm to 2pm in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
The exhibition explores the historical, cultural, and social importance of the Ovens River, through creative writing, photography, video and performance.
Clare said having grown up in Rosewhite in the Happy Valley, the Ovens River and North
East Victorian landscape hold a special place in her heart.
Recalling fond memories of commutes from her family home to Wangaratta High School, Clare said her connection to the Ovens River stems back to her childhood and the conversations she and her mother shared daily.
“I have really rich memories of the conversations with my mum, listening to the radio and book tapes and the way in which we used to witness the seasons and how the environment changed throughout them,” she said.
“There is nothing quite like the view of North Eastern Victoria through the car window, it’s so beautiful.
“I still visit my mum frequently at my childhood home
in Rosewhite, and during Covid I was stuck in North Melbourne which is a very stark contrast to the area I grew up in.”
Clare said the exhibition is a way to explore history and unveil truths that weren’t mainstream during her local schooling.
She said the exhibition ranges from historical discussions of the First Nations Peoples connection to the area, through to the impacts of settlement and the river’s recreational role.
“After exploring the area on google maps during lockdown and discovering it doesn’t read Australian bush land, it lists it as agricultural land, I went on a deep dive into the history of the Ovens River area,” Clare said.
“There are significant histories of Indigenous heritage and care for Country, goldmining, cattle farming, water riots, tobacco and hops, but the river means so many extraordinary things to the little communities along it.
“This little river which no one talks about having a na-
tional significance, has all of these fascinating histories.
“To think of the Ovens River is to think of the original custodians, and all the histories that have followed, the river has witnessed them all.
“That’s where the project grew out of, of truth telling and questioning.
“It felt important to me to think dynamically about a place I love and think is one of the most beautiful parts of Australia, and to think about the complex layers of history.”
The exhibition will be on display in Gallery 2 of the Wangaratta Art Gallery until November 3.
For more information or to book your free ticket, visit: www.wangarattaartgallery. com.au.
ENJOY a big weekend of family entertainment for all ages at the 158th Wangaratta Agricultural Show being held on October 11 and 12.
View the livestock exhibits, visit the Pavilion and see art, craft, cookery and horticulture exhibits, enjoy the fireworks on Friday night and watch Sincs FMX in action.
There will also be an animal nursery, dog jumping and the Beaut Ute competition, a display of steam engines and fergie tractors, visit the new food court and hear live music by Sweet Buzz.
The show will be open from 9am to 9pm on Friday and from 9am until 4pm on Saturday with adult, child and family tickets available.
Bluegrass/country band Green Mohair Suits, featuring songwriters and accomplished musicians Brian Campeau, Richard Cuthbert, Jason Mannell and Ben Romalis), will hold their album launch at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Friday, October 11.
The band’s music straddles genres such as bluegrass, indie folk and country, and they aren’t afraid to lean into 60s pop and reggae for good measure.
The event will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and entry is free.
HEAR artists Clare McCracken and Heather Hesterman speak about their exhibition Wild Country at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday, October 12 at 1pm.
Through documentation of performative fieldwork, creative writing and participatory practice, McCracken and Hesterman tease out the complex political, social, cultural, economic and ecological histories of the Ovens River, and what it means for the many communities along it.
The event on Saturday is free but bookings are appreciated by visiting wangarattaartgallery. com.au.
A NEW exhibition by resident artists Janet Leith and Joanne Radnor called Growth, has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens.
The pair say the exhibition is inspired by their natural environments, with each artist using imagery close to their hearts.
Visitors to the gallery will see up to 18 artworks on display, including larger scale oil on canvas works by Janet, and mostly smaller scale acrylic on canvas pieces by Jo.
Jo continues to explore the forms and textures of her much-loved Warby Ranges, incorporating bright fields of vibrant colour, while Janet follows her recent focus using inspirational botanical plants connected to healing and her surrounds.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
Jo explains the pair had been discussing their work over the past year and found they had a lot of common ground around plants, nature and personal growth.
“The title fits with that, and it is also open to interpretation by the viewer as they look at our artwork,” she said.
“Janet’s wonderful paintings also follow the theme of her Benalla Gallery exhibition ‘Melancholia’ held earlier this year.”
Melancholia drew inspiration from Laurinda S. Dixon’s Privileged Piety: Melancholia and the Herbal Tradition, published in the Journal of
Historians of Netherlandish Art. Janet’s exploration of the medieval ideas of medicine using plants, ‘humors’ and colours to treat and describe illness, has been a new direction this year, and also a way of coping with personal stress.
Jo continues to be inspired by the stunning trees found in the Warbys which are ever present near her home.
“I feel they reflect dance, movement, colour, strength and a female form in every season,” she says.
Growth can be seen at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street on Mondays, Thursday and Fridays from 10am until 4pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am until 2pm until October 21.
All are welcome and entry is free.
THE Wangaratta Farmers Market will be held on Saturday morning in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 8am until 12pm.
There will be a variety of local growers and makers on site showcasing their wares including seasonal fruit and vegetables, baked goods, meats, eggs, preserves, plants and much more.
WANGARATTA community-based choir OSTINATO will be hosting a “Sing your own Messiah” workshop with Graham Abbott on Saturday, October 12 October from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Conductor and Handel specialist, Graham Abbott will workshop a selection of the choruses for participants who will then perform together in the afternoon as part of an informal concert.
This workshop is open to anyone who can attend and loves singing, with the tickets including a copy of the choruses so that everyone will be singing from the same score, available at wpacc.com.au.
POPULAR entertainer Glenn Starr will perform live at the Da Vinci Social Club in Pyles Lane, Wangaratta on Sunday, October 13 as part of the Wangaratta Seniors Festival.
Sing along or dance to unforgettable hits from the 50s and 60s, with doors open at 12.30pm and the afternoon of music to run from 1pm to 4.30pm.
Tickets are $25 for non-members ($20 for members) available by calling Pip on 0409 307 606.
SENIORS are invited to twirl the night way and revisit the dance moves of their youth, during a traditional bush dance being held at the Everton Hall on Saturday, October 12.
Part of this year’s Wangaratta Seniors Festival, popular Celtic band Bally Kiel will provide the music, with revellers having the opportunity to learn bush dances on the night during the free event.
It will be held from 7pm to 9pm at the Everton Hall on the Great Alpine Road in Everton, and no booking is required.
FOR more than 30 years, Community Interlink has been committed to helping seniors maintain their independence.
As a Home Care Package Provider, Community Interlink ensures that eligible seniors receive the services and support they need to remain at home.
This approach has provided comfort and security for thousands of older Australians who prefer the familiarity of home during their later years.
The government-funded Home Care Packages Program offers financial assistance to seniors with care needs, ensuring they have access to services like personal care, home cleaning, meal preparation, and trans-
port to medical appointments.
The services provided through a Home Care Package can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality of life for elderly residents.
“Home Care Packages aim to provide seniors with the necessary support to remain in their own homes for as long as they are able to,” Community Interlink Director Tricia Van De Paverd said.
“The team at Community Interlink work to identify areas where support can help maintain independence and safety,”
“Our staff are people who live within our community.
“They see our ageing community members’ struggles
and the barriers that they encounter.”
Community Interlink supports Home Care Package recipients with a team of devoted Care Management staff
“Our service model is unlike other Home Care Package Providers,” Ms Van De Paverd said.
“Each of our clients receives support from two dedicated staff – their Home Care Package Case Manager and Service Support Coordinator.”
Home Care Package Case Managers are responsible for assessing and monitoring the individual’s care needs, developing a personalised Home Care Plan, and ensuring the allocated funds are used effectively
within the guidelines.
Service Support Coordinators take care of the individual’s service bookings.
“All of our in-home services are outsourced to highquality local providers,” Ms Van De Paverd said.
“Our Aged Care Finance Officer also supports our clients by processing payments to the providers of their services and supplying our clients with a monthly Home Care Package Statement.”
Tricia highlighted the importance of the local connections Community Interlink has built over the years.
“The networks that our team has, both within our consortium member health services and among local
service providers, mean that our clients have access to the best Home Care Package services available in their area,” she said.
“One of the most valuable aspects of the Home Care Package is its flexibility.
“Recipients choose the services to best suit their needs and adjust their care plans as circumstances change.”
Case Managers also play a vital role in ensuring that these care plans are culturally sensitive and reflect each individual’s unique preferences and goals.
“Every year, we receive so many compliments about our staff,” Tricia said.
“I am very proud to be part of a team that cares so much about supporting our community.”
By keeping care local, Community Interlink ensures that the elderly can continue living comfortably and confidently in their homes, knowing that help is nearby.
For seniors, staying at home is not just about comfort; it’s about maintaining independence, dignity, and a sense of belonging within their community.
Through Community Interlink’s dedication and expertise, many of the region’s elderly residents have achieved just that.
Community Interlink’s offices are located in Benalla, Broadford, Cobram, Kyabram, Seymour, Shepparton, Wangaratta, and Wodonga.
AT the end of last term, the Foundation class was fortunate to have four local members of the Wangaratta CFA visit them in their classroom to talk about fire safety.
In the first session the students learnt about the dangers of fire and smoke and what to do if they are at home and their smoke alarms sound.
The message of ‘Get Down Low and Go, Go, Go!’ was a key learning as the students crawled quickly under the ‘smoke’ to find a safe space.
They also practised ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’ if their clothing catches alight.
Trying to stay calm and knowing their home address if they need to call 000 was also a focus for their first session.
The students were keen to have them visit the second time as they were able to sit in the fire truck, listen to the different sirens and use some of the fire hoses that CFA members use when fighting all fires.
Exposing our young students to how our emergency services support the community and learning about safety in their own home is important and having them learn through physical practise makes things more meaningful.
W
TO fundraise for Anglicare Victoria, Feathertop house held a Crazy Sock Day. Students wore some very creative and colourful socks and they raised over $1000 for the organisation, which supports people in need.
ALL DRESSED UP: CCW Students Elliane Hunkin, Ivy Akers, Lexi Clark and Maddie Van Der Zalm show their support for Crazy Sock Day.
T TO V Victor Cr C azy St S u and co over $ which D Ellian show Sock
Do you have a photo and story from your school or kinder you would like to see on the page? Send it to amcpherson@nemedia.com.au and we’ll include it in an upcoming edition.
THE school recently sent eight grade six students to a nine-day camp at Somers, where they participated in a range of activities focused on personal growth and skill-building.
The camp offered the students opportunities to develop teamwork, responsibility, and respect with a strong focus on being environmentally friendly. Through engaging in various challenges, they were encouraged to take risks, try new things and have fun - all while getting to know other students from the region.
The experience helped the students build confidence and foster friendships, creating lasting memories before they transition to secondary school.
AT the end of last term, the school held a morning tea to celebrate 150 years of education.
About 60 people attended the special event, sharing their memories and enjoy a display which documented the history of the school, past students and teachers and activities which have taken place.
Year five student Jessica Young gave a presentation and also updated the time capsule for future generations.
As Jessica has now moved on, the school has become non-operational this term.
TO celebrate Book Week last term, Foundation students were invited by the Wangaratta Library to participate in Story Time on the Stage at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
It was a special experience, and they had a wonderful time.
■ SHIFTING UP:
The Qashqai e-Power has gone hybrid and the shift is no downsize in comfort and convenience.
By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring
BACK in the ‘noughties’ the Pulsar hatchback was not pulling its weight in Europe, so the maker Nissan decided to beef it up and give it a new name: in this case the Qashqai, and a new identity, the compact SUV.
Down Under it became the Dualis, before following in Eurofashion with the Qashqai moniker.
Now it has gone hybrid.
While the popular petrol/electric hybrid these days uses both power sources to drive the vehicle, Nissan’s e-Power system leaves the internal combustion engine to charge the battery only, hopefully giving the Qashqai the performance of a full electric vehicle without any plug-in problems (eg: range anxiety).
And, as befitting a rare and exclusive model, the Aussie Qashqai e-Power comes in top Ti specification only.
The flagship trim includes e-Power badging and premium front grille, approaching sound for pedestrians and active noise cancellation, as well as e-Pedal Step and regenerative braking.
Needless to say, the shift is no down-size in comfort and convenience.
The Qashqai Ti e-Power auto checks in at $52,090, plus on-road costs.
This compares with the entrylevel Qashqai ST at $34,390.
While the latter makes do with a three-cylinder 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine and CVT transmission, the Ti Hybrid calls on a premiumfuelled 1.5-litre turbo complemented by a 2.1kWh lithium-ion battery and single-speed auto.
Nissan’s five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty is industry standard.
Roadside assist covers a similar length of time.
Panoramic glass roof is fixed, while the sunshade is electrically retractable. It’s LED lighting all round, including daytime running lights and turn signals.
As well as 19-inch alloy wheels, a graphite rear bumper finish and e-Power front grille are unique additions.
The cabin comes with quilted leather accented seats, which offer power adjustment up front as well as driver memory and massaging functions for both front occupants.
With four up, the Qashqai is welcoming to ‘tall timber’.
A third person can squash into the middle of the rear where air vents, and USB-A and USB-C charge points are handy.
Ambient lighting sets the tone.
Back there are a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, map pockets behind both front seats, and bottle holders in the rear doors.
ISOFIX anchors are situated on the outboard seats, as well as toptether points across all three rear positions.
Boot space is up there with the best in class – capacity for the Ti is 452 litres with the rear seat backs upright, expanding to 1376 litres with them folded.
The lack of any sort of spare wheel does the owner no favours, a tyre repair kit can present a stressful challenge and a call to road-side assist.
The Qashqai’s e-power system consists of a high-output battery, complemented by a world top ten 116 kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, developed by Nissan’s luxury Infiniti arm, a power generator, inverter and electric motor for a total power output of 140kW.
The petrol engine generates electricity, which can be transmitted
per 100 kilometres on a combined urban/highway cycle, with carbon dioxide emissions of 117g/km.
The tester ran between 4.5 and 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres over a week, which equates loosely to the maker’s combined consumption claim.
The e-Power demands 95 RON premium unleaded petrol in the 55-litre capacity fuel tank for an expected range of up to 1050km.
One pedal driving, as in the Leaf, is beneficial in stop/start town travel, removing the need for the driver to keep up the constant shift of one foot from the accelerator to brake pedal and back.
Called e-Pedal Step, the system allows the driver to speed up or slow down using a single pedal.
Reducing the Qashqai to a slow crawl, with stop light illuminated, it will not bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
As for Drive Modes, Eco is for lazy days, Normal is down to day-to-day business, while Sport summons up the promise of an adrenaline-fuelled wild weekend.
via the inverter to the battery pack, the electric motor or both, through varying compression ratios, according to driving requirements.
This unique power source supplies the wheels directly, so response is instant and seamless, for a smooth driving experience, without the need for external charging.
The Qashqai attracts a fivestar ANCAP rating based on 2021 testing.
Standard safety features include seven airbags, including front-centre.
Autonomous emergency braking features pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus junction assist.
Also across the range are active speed limiter, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision and lane departure warning, lane
keep assist, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring.
The Ti e-Power adds Intelligent 360-degree camera, moving object detection, front parking sensors, ProPILOT lane centring, alarm system, intelligent park assist (semiauto park) and side parking sensors.
Nissan engineers worked on keeping the e-Power driving experience ‘connected’, with petrol engine speed remaining relative to vehicle road speed no matter what the energy demands are.
This ‘Linear Tune’ removes any disconnect felt by driver or passengers in performance or sound.
Nissan reckons the Ti e-Power should average around 5.2 litres
The chassis is set up on the sporty side, the stiff suspension competing with (and defeating) the softer clubby cabin surroundings, while Active Noise Cancellation uses the audio system to play a competing frequency to cancel out ambient noise.
Automobile magicians continue to pull petrol/electric rabbits out of the hat, with hybrids being the prominent breed.
Nissan is the latest to sprinkle eco-fairy dust over pesky pollutants.
RATINGS
– 8
THIS family home is in a quality West End location on a large 646m2 (approx) allotment.
It is a short stroll to schools, shops, cafes, parks and more.
Recently renovated, this home offers a comfort and style with modern features throughout.
The kitchen is fitted with stainless steel cooking appliances, stone benchtops and an island bench.
There is open plan kitchen/living along with separate dining/lounge area.
The front lounge is fitted with a gas heater.
The main bedroom has split system a/c, generous WIR and ensuite featuring vanity, shower and toilet.
Three additional bedrooms are all fitted with ceiling fans and BIR’s.
The main bathroom has a separate
shower, bath, and the toilet is also separate.
Air control is covered with evaporative cooling, split system heating/cooling along with a gas heater.
Step outside to admire a large lawned backyard with covered concrete outdoor area.
This is perfect if you are currently in the market for a West End home that ticks all the boxes.
1385mm mud bucket, 570mm digging bucket, 340mm trenching bucket, FWA, extendable rear boom; Iseki 75hp tractor with cab; 2017 Polaris Ace 570 Atv- runs well Trailers: 7x5.5ft tipping trailer; 6x4ft car trailer; 10x 5.4ft tandem trailer & sheep crate to suit; 16x 6.8ft tri axle trailer; 12 x 5ft trailer & frame; 12x 5ft trailer & frame
Steel: Quantity 100mm square tube; various sizes and lengths of C purlins; shed posts; various lengths RHS; 150mmx 50mm square tube; 100mm square galvanised RHS; black 50mmx150mm tube; 25mmx 50mm galvanised tube; 100mm x 50mm tube; 70mm angle iron; quantity pipe various sizes and lengths; Oval cattle rail 70mmx 40mm; reinforcement mesh; shed kit for 60x 40ft with 20ft bays; quantity 4” x24ft long ames; aluminium irrigation pipe; quantity various sheets of tin Paddock tools: Foldable hydraulic scarifier; 20 plate Connor shea baby giant discs; 6ft 3PL P.T.O driven Berends mulcher; single tyne ripper with poly attachment; pasture harrows; 6ft Sicma flail mulcher with side shift; Hay elevator; 503 Massey Ferguson small square P.T.O baler; New Holland mower conditioner 469 v62; Barco 5ft P.T.O slasher; 3PL soil renovating plough; 3PL soil aerator; 3PL adjustable grader blade; mobile pencil auger; smith grain crusher P.T.O driven; Lightburn 3PL P.T.O cement mixer
Spray Tanks, Fire fighting equipment, pumps, engines: 5.5hp Honda motor with Davey firefighting pump + red 800L rapid spray tank; 400L Hardi spray tank & boom;
electric start Lifan petrol motor; 400L C-Dax on trailer with Honda 5.5hp motor & reel; 1000L spray tank with 5hp motor pump & reel mounted on Jeep trailer
Fencing: Quantity new black & galvanised Waratah steel posts; wire spinner; concrete line posts; 6ft small square hinge joint bird wire; galvanised fence equipment (split tee joiners, pipe fittings); electric fence porcelain insulators; chain mesh fencing wire; quantity security fencing; 21x 6 bar galvanised 7x5ft portable panels and gate in frame including pins
Antiques: Antique 3P/L scarifier; antique verandah freeze; single furrow horse drawn plough; 2 furrow adjustable horse drawn plough; Cliff & Buntin chaff cutter wheel; 6 inch international belt driven grain crusher; antique bed heads; steel copper frame; furphy pig trough; Avery scales; Jinker/ buggy parts; trewalla jack x2; lamp poles & glass; trail harrows; rubber tyre jinker (shedded); fairbank scales; wooden bag trolley; 12gallon milk can and lid; antique sewing machine.
Other: 3PL rotary drain cleaner ; 9500LB winch; hydraulic pipe bender; quantity sawn timber various species; rubber belting; plastic sheep feeder; steel trough with roof; Hamilton sheep handler; Markwood Sheep feeder; plastic stock trough; round bale feeder; lawn king 36 inch ride on-mower; lawn sweeper; Honda 11HP motor & dunlite generator; weldarc 140 welder; Miller welder 10 HP motor; air compressor; mitre saw; Husqvarna 268 chainsaw; band saw; 20ft shipping container x2; Sunwagon Pop top 12ft caravan; Yamaha XV750 motor bike; various gardening tools; quantity plastic garden pots; various workshop tools; 1”& 2” poly pipe; tractor weights; car ramps; Small diesel tank; Various old small silos; various PVC pipe lengths & size; various lengths of conduit; 2x bird cage; 7x5ft crate; Toolbox; Chain; scarifier points; lawn mower trailer
Terms: Number System will operate, Photo ID required, cash & cheque on day, EFTPOS available. No GST applied. Web ID: https://elders.com.au/our-services/buy-and-sell/clearing-sales/clearing-sales-details.s-cs001358/
No pick up of goods until sale finishes. 7 days to remove all items. All equipment will be sold unregistered.
THIS is a fantastic near new family home ideally located in Baltimore Park Estate occupying a north facing 661m2 allotment.
This versatile home will appeal to anyone looking for a family home, downsizing or upsizing opportunity.
It is desirably configured with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living areas and a study.
An open plan kitchen, living and dining space feature direct access to the alfresco and spacious rear yard.
A second living space combines a dedicated study.
The well-appointed kitchen provides stainless cooking appliances, stone island bench and a walk-in pantry.
An abundance of natural light fills both the open plan living spaces thanks to the home’s orientation.
The primary bedroom offers both an ensuite and walk in robe.
All three additional guest bedrooms are fitted with built in robes.
A central bathroom feature’s a separate shower and bath.
Ensuring year-round comfort, the home contains ducted evaporative
$715,000
cooling and ducted gas heating.
A double lock up garage for two vehicles has direct access to the home and rear yard.
The property has great side access providing an abundance of scope to add shedding or a pool or further enhance to make it your own.
This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone considering building or looking for a new home, located in the popular Baltimore Park Estate.
The home was constructed by Dennis Family Homes and completed in 2023. 4
‘Turnbulls’ 82 Pettifers Road, Edi Upper On site, 10.30am, Saturday, October 26
The long held elevated parcel of terrace land, has frontage to Black Range Creek from which multiple paddock troughs are filled.
The High Country, high rainfall parcel is hugely attractive and presents lots of options for house sites most of which have a valley/mountain outlook.
The Agents Morris Bros expect that their forthcoming auction of the 168.4 acres ‘Turnbulls’ at 82 Pettifers Road, Edi Upper will attract strong interest.
The handy and valuable structural improvements include new steel cattle yards, enclosed colorbond shed, hay and machinery sheds. Power is connected to the property and access is excellent.
Terms 10% Balance 60 Days
Please contact Brett Goodwin on 0408 574 966 or Morris Bros office (03) 5721 2014 for more information.
Brett Goodwin Auctioneer for the Agents maintains that when exceptional rural land hits the market purchasers cannot afford to hesitate.
“This is a once in a generation opportunity by the smart buyer to buy quality land.”
Buffalo, Mount Feathertop, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.
Charming and tastefully renovated two bedroom mud brick residence to include well appointed kitchen and bathroom plus open plan living/dining.
Combustion wood heater plus three wall mounted reverse cycle air conditioning units. Perfectly suited to B&B type accommodation for additional income. Large equine complex to include four internal stables with undercover yard areas, mains power connected with internal lighting, instant gas hot water, 4.5kVA solar system & separate round yard. Also suited to pasture production, livestock breeding and livestock grazing. Divided into eight main paddocks plus two smaller holding paddocks with excellent fencing. Heavy carrying capacity with improved pastures and extensive fertiliser history. Excellent stock water via established bore and network of ten stock troughs. Plus three bay machinery shed, two haysheds and cattle yards.
Only 5 kms to Milawa township and 20 kms to all key services in the regional City of Wangaratta.
INSPECTIONS Strictly By Appointment Only FOR SALE $1,600,000
JOHN HONEYCHURCH 0419 790 924 ALISHA FIELDER 0409 465 024
Explore services and supports available for carers, family and friends. physical and psychological health, social life, wellbeing and living environments in our region. Explore products and services that promote healthy lifestyle choices, positive aging, and meet diverse needs. This festival is designed to assist people in staying connected to their community and peers.
At the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre, Wednesday 16 October 10am – 2pm.
Nominations for Rural City of Wangaratta Australia Day Awards 2025 are now open. Anyone can nominate a citizen, young citizen, community event, or project that has inspired them over the last year. Nominations close at 6pm, Saturday 9 November 2024. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4h0ymyK
15 October 2024 | 9am-3pm
Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre
Take the next step towards your career in early childhood!
• Interview for job vacancies
• Connect with industry experts
• Explore your career pathway
Find out more: https://bit.ly/3BttCkR
Join us in October for our twilight Laneway Market. The event branding was developed with help from students across Wangaratta who attended our recent Careers Expo. Design student Ellie from Cathedral College, created the final design. She has bought to life the feel of a street filled with music, market stalls, and food, at springtime.
Saturday 19 October, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.
Victoria Parade, Wangaratta CBD.
Join us on Thursday 24 October for a morning filled with exciting games, delicious food, a jumping castle, face painting, and much more.
Help celebrate the incredible talent, skills, and abilities of our youngest residents. This week shines a light on the abundant opportunities in our community to support our children to learn, grow, and thrive. In partnership with NEMA - North East Multicultural Association. 10am -12pm at Batchelors Green, Wangaratta
Each month we are showcasing the cool, quirky, and unique shopping spots across our region. Until November 2024, residents and visitors are invited to explore our charming townships for a chance to win some awesome prizes. Make a purchase at participating businesses, scan the QR code at point of purchase, and you’re in! This month we are highlighting Wangaratta. More info here: https://bit.ly/3IZq8Xy
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.
• Tuesday 29 October 5.30pm | Benjamin Stevenson in conversation with Mark Bolsius from Booktique.
• Thursday 31 October 6.30pm | Gary Davis in conversation.
• Tuesday 12 November 10.30am | Georgina Banks fundraiser and in conversation with Belinda Harrison from Edgars Books and News.
Bookings for all events are essential https://shorturl.at/Lx6zq
Mark your calendars for Monday 14 – Sunday 20 October and get ready to join Australia’s biggest birdwatching and citizen science event. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, this is your chance to connect with nature in a fun and easy way. Register here: https://aussiebirdcount.org.au
Tenders close at 2pm on Thursday 31 October 2024
T16150 Glenrowan Augmented Reality Project
Tender closes at 12noon on Wednesday 6 November 2024
Further details on all tenders may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Council’s website.
For further information on these positions please visit
Ovens Medical Group is excited to announce the expansion of our family planning, antenatal and child/adolescent health service.
A number of our GPs have undertaken advanced training and have many years of experience in providing the latest family planning options (including insertion of Mirena and Implanon), shared antenatal care and management of children’s health. We now have capacity for a limited number of new patients requiring these services.
Please call 5721 2176
Notification by Buyer Intention to Apply for the Permanent Transfer of a Licence to Take and Use Surface Water GMW Reference No:
BPTWE0043-24
I Joshua Trimble
Of 22 Myrrhee-Whitlands Rd MYRRHEE VIC 3732
Refer to Vic Roads Map 48 G5
Intend to make application to Permanently Transfer Entitlement to my existing Licence to Take & Use Surface Water and increase the licensed volume from 6.0ML/Year to 22.0ML/Year. The volume sought in the application is 16.0ML/Year
The water will be used for the purpose of: Irrigation
VolumeFolioCrown
Allotment Parish
948227679EMyrrhee
805377782Myrrhee
Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the transfer of this Licence including any intended Surface Water use, is invited to make a formal submission setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification.
To make a submission please read the information available to download from Make a submission about a licence application - Goulburn Murray Water (g-mwater.com.au) or contact GMW to arrange a copy to be posted to you. Submissions must be lodged using the GMW template available by either mail or email to, licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au or PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3616.
Ovens Medical Group
Dr Matthew Cardinali – FRACGP
Please call 5721 2176
The Rotary Club of Wangaratta has introduced the ‘Apprentice of but also showcase the company they are employed by. The successful recipient will receive $1000.00 in prize money. This amount is designed to assist them with costs associated with their apprenticeship.
CONDITIONS OF APPLICATION
1.Applicants may be either male or female and of any age.
2.Applicants may come from any industry sector that conditions as set by the Fair Work Act - 2009.
3.Applicants must live in the Rural City of Wangaratta.
4.Applicants must have completed at least 50% of the recognised apprenticeship period at the time of applying.
5.The award will consist of $1000.00 which will be provided to the successful applicant via electronic transfer to their nominated bank account.
6.Businesses may nominate more than one applicant.
7.Successful applicants will not be eligible to receive a second ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award.
8.Applications will be open for submission until 30th November.
9.The annual award will be presented on the last Monday in January at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Wangaratta.
10.The President of the Rotary Club of Wangaratta will advise the business sponsoring the successful applicant in writing by the 15th December.
A copy of the application form can be obtained from the Rotary Club of Wangaratta by emailing: rotaryclubofwangaratta@outloook.com
Time: 7:00pm
RSVP: Tuesday, 22nd October 2024
Email: nema@nema.org.au
Phone: 03 5721 5490
Wangaratta Table Tennis Association
Spring Comp muster nights October 16 & October 23, 2024
SENIOR GRADES - 7PM JUNIOR GRADES - 6PM TO 7PM ALL NEW AND PAST PLAYERS WELCOME All enquiries: Robert 0407 228 280
MEETING
To be held at the Laceby West CFA Station on Sunday, October 27, 2024, 11am start. All operational and non-operational members are urged to attend. Barbecue lunch to follow. Please direct any enquiries to phone 0413 780 416.
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Da Vinci Social Club Inc will be held at the Club, 55 Pyles Lane, Laceby on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 2pm.
COLLECTABLES, vintage glassware, games from the 90’s, craft items, pot plants - succulents, bromeliads, tools including sidchrome spanners, wine rack, crest sewing cabinet, heaps more. Saturday, October 12, 8am-2pm, 19 Skehan Avenue, Wangaratta.
DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.
To Visit Visited EVERYTHING must go. Garage sale, full house lot, 27 Pelican Court, Wangaratta. No early callers 8am to 4pm.
8AM start, 58 Cambridge drive Wangaratta, Silverware, clothes, pizza oven, coffee machine, caravan mirrors and more.
DECEASED Estate sale being held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, gate opens at 8am-11am. Some items: books, shelves, chairs, ladies size 8 boots, picture frames, outside equipment, pillow/bedding and lots more. Come down and have a look - BRING CASH! 780 Warby Range Road, Wangaratta South.
FRANK’S DOG TRAINING, qualified, professional dog behaviourist, nationally accredited, obedience training, behavioral solutions, $70 a session. Ph 0418 314 610. Check out my dog tricks on Facebook.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Kitchens available before Christmas. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
LAWN MOWING, quality work at a competitive price. Phone Paul 0431 945 320
FURNITURE, camping gear and more. Saturday, October 12, from 8.30am, 104 Templeton Street, Wangaratta.
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.
GARAGE sale, household items, tools, clothes, books, some furniture, etc. Saturday, October 12, 8am, 8 Dunlop Street, Wangaratta.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
HOUSEHOLD items, numerous tools, Christmas inflatables and lights, shed items and more. Saturday, October 12, 7am start, 6 Wisteria Parade, Wangaratta.
CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
BOOKS, tins, soft toys, kitchenware, lots of household items - selling cheap! Saturday, October 12, 9am-2pm, Howard Crescent, Wangaratta.
A school of The Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions:
(Fixed, full-time 12-month replacement position with the possibility of ongoing)
(Full-time/ongoing)
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for position descriptions and application closing dates.
Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
About North East Media (NEM)
NEM is an independent family owned media company with community and farming newspapers, magazines and websites across North East VIC, Southern and Central NSW.
The Wangaratta Division is responsible for a group of regular print and digital publications, including the tri weekly Wangaratta Chronicle and weekly Ovens and Murray Advertiser. We also have special publications, including North East Living Magazine, North East Tourist News, North East Farmer, Southern Farmer, North East Kids and Footy Focus. Who are we looking for?
The Wangaratta Division is looking for a driven and committed individual to join our advertising sales team, responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales.
The ideal candidate will have:
•At least 2 years’ sales experience (sales of advertising in multi-media is a plus, not essential)
•The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow
•Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries
•The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones
•An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.
•The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns
•A motor vehicle and a current driver’s licence
What are we offering?
A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.
While this is a maternity leave position, we envisage that the role will lead to an ongoing employment opportunity at the at the end of the 12 month maternity leave period.
How to apply
If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, forward your resume and covering letter to: Kevin Spendier Advertising Manager kspendier@nemedia.com.au
•Use your life skills to help make Victoria a safer and fairer place to live.
•No prior experience needed.
•Fully paid pre-service training provided.
•Ongoing positions.
•4-day work week, across a Monday to Friday roster.
If you’re great at connecting with people, have a strong work ethic and can bounce back from challenges –we want you.
are the uniformed frontline staff who have the power to ensure members of the public are offences.
We look for people who have developed the skills needed to do the job, so to be successful as a sheriff’s
• Motivated – you understand the importance of your work.
• Quick thinking – you can plan your next actions in the moment.
• Respectfully assertive – you are not afraid to have
• Empathetic – you are a good listener and can build rapport with people from all backgrounds
• Resilient – you can handle a wide range of challenging situations.
We are recruiting right now for the next intake of Melbourne, Bendigo and Wangaratta.
APPLY NOW AT www.justice.vic.gov.au/sheriffrecruitment Applications close October 2024
SHED find, vintage Chrysler Regal Lebaron ’78, 4.3 ltres, $10,000, looking for offers, VIN: CLBH4IV105369. Ph 0459 899 884.
M ITSUBISHI Outlander 2010 4x4, very good condition, 155,000km, only two owners, serviced regularly, country kilometres, seldom driven off road, air conditioner regassed, reversing camera, tow bar and tow ball, comes with RWC and 2 months reg (YFC999), great for any outdoor adventures, $7900. Ph 0421 551 058.
2014 BMW X5 F15 sDrive25D 5 dr Spts, auto 8sp 4x4, 139,000km, heated front seats, sunroof, tow bar, seats 7, immaculate condition, reg till November 2025, VIN: WBAKS020600H91814, $40,000. Genuine enquiries only 0408 406 713.
Painters Island are seeking Casual Cleaning Staff to join our Team. There is weekday and weekend work available for immediate start, renumeration is the Park Staff Award Rate Level 2 from $31 per hour. Contact Deb or Kirk on (03) 5721 3380 Painter Island Holiday Park
TRAVELLER Australia Penthouse (Y32913),
Chase Sambar
Lovell
October 12, 2010. Happy 14th Birthday!
We hope you have an amazing day. ~ Love Dad and Mum xx
Lovell
October 10, 1984. Happy 40th Birthday
We hope you have a fantastic day! ~ Love from Kelly and Chase.
BAYTALA, Heinz Jürgen
Died at Woods Point Aged Care on September 14, 2024.
MERCEDES Sprinter campervan, ver y good condition, reg till April ’25, can get roadworthy, VIN: WDF9036622A908307, $15,000 ono. Ph 0459 899 884.
Redgum, bulk loads, garden sleepers, post and rail fencing, onsite milling and farm cleanup Ph 0448 933 999
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, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.
Father to Kerry, Benjamin and Naomi. A genius ahead of his time with a beautiful mind and a kind heart. He was loved by many, misunderstood by all.
VK3BEW over and out Dad. ~ Benjamin Heinz Baytala.
CAIRNS, Kathleen.
10/6/1946 – 4/10/2024
In loving memory of Kathleen Cairns who sadly passed away peacefully. Aged 78 years.
Loving mother of Richard and Angela. Dearly loved Granny of Kayleigh and Jasmine. Mother in-law of Paul. Loved sister and Aunty. Private funeral arrangements have been made in keeping with Kathleen's wishes.
ELWARD, John William. Passed away peacefully on Monday, October 7, 2024 at the age of 89.
Much loved husband of Gwen (dec) for 63 years, father to Steven, Anthony, and Joanne. Pa to Hollie, Bailey, Beau, Luke, Riley, James, and Danielle. Pa Pa to Heidi.
Your life has meaning, when you have lived well, laughed often, and loved much. When you have looked for the best in others, and given the best you have, to leave the world a bit better, to know even one life has breathed easier because you lived. This is to have succeeded.
ELWARD, John. Best friend for years. Mentor on many subjects from local government, the evils of alcohol to caravan trips both West and North. Your wise words, wisdom and management skills were generously passed on to many, including the Fox family. The city of Wangaratta, along with its citizens, will benefit that you and your family happen to pass our way in life. ~ Brian and Dawn Fox.
WOOD, Ronald Arthur.
Dearly loved brother of Lorna and Lloyd (dec).
Fond brother-inlaw of Ted (dec) and Lyn (dec).
Remembered with love by his nieces and nephews. A gentleman now resting peacefully.
ELWARD, John William.
The President and members of the Probus Club of Wangaratta Inc. mourn the loss of our highly esteemed Member. With our deepest sympathy to John’s family.
MALLINDER, Gillian.
28/5/1938 – 6/10/2024
Beloved wife of Brian (dec). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Jennifer, Victoria and Jamie. Devoted Gran to Harry, Eva, Patrick, Fleur and Celeste. God has you in His keeping.
PACCAGNAN, Frederica.
7/6/1935 –25/9/2024
Members of Wangaratta Appin Park Probus Club are saddened by the passing of our respected Foundation Member Frederica.
RAISON
Allan George.
4/12/1928 – 9/10/2024
Passed away peacefully at St Johns Respect, Wangaratta. Aged 95 years.
Loved husband of Phyllis ‘Tim’ (dec). Loving father and father-in-law of Vicki and Keith. Brother-in-law of Melva. Always in our heart.
ELWARD
A service to celebrate the life of John Elward is to be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 10.30am.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to join John’s family for the service. Burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery will follow the service.
Refreshments will be served in the Memories Room at Mason Park following the burial.
John’s service may be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
GRANTHAM, Thomas John. Tom passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024 at Corowa Hospital. Aged 86 years.
He was the dearly loved husband of Maureen, and much-loved father and father-in-law of Anne and Stephen, Philip and Paula, Bronwyn and Chris, and Narelle and Ken.
Pa Tom to Edward (dec), James and Anna, Emma, Violet, and Alice.
The best of gentlemen.
Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Mr Tom Grantham will be offered on Monday, October 14, 2024 at St Mary’s Catholic Church, High Street, Rutherglen at 11am. Thereafter the cortege will proceed to the Carlyle Lawn Cemetery.
For livestreaming go to tobinbrothers.com.au
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. Your memorial donation can assist in securing the continued availability of comprehensive health care locally. 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. For further information or to make a donation please contact: Community Engagement Team (03) 57225069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.
MALLINDER
A funeral service to honour the life of Gillian Mallinder will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024 at the Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral, Wangaratta commencing at 10.30am.
A private cremation will take place later in the day.
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Allan George Raison will be held in the Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 commencing at 11.30am.
A private burial will precede this service.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication
classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Phone: 03 5723 0101
GRANT, Jill. October 5, 2018 Missed Loved Remembered Everyday. ~ Gary and family.
NAISH, Terry. Loved you yesterday, love you still, always have, always will. ~ Barbie.
RSL Wangaratta Women’s Auxiliary held a hoy day on Thursday, during Seniors Week. The large group in attendance enjoyed a light lunch, and there was a lucky door prize and raffle on offer during the event held at the Wangaratta RSL in Templeton Street.
PHOTOS: Simone Kerwin
Lola
ALL roads led to the Oxley hall last Monday night, where 25 players arrived for an exhilarating evening of social and physical enjoyment at the 2024 penultimate week (preliminary final) of the social table tennis competition.
Inspired by the ‘Bubbles’ sculpture at the Oxley roundabout, Graham Stephens was at his sparkling best when he and ‘historian’ Neil Brock took on ‘sharpeyed’ Cheryl Coad and ‘future Olympian’ Hugh Spring in a game that sorely tested the mental and physical strengths of all four.
While Graham and Neil chucked up the ‘swifties’, Cheryl and Hugh met and returned every ball with strong and accurate placement to every point on the table.
Scores remained even until Cheryl and Hugh threw caution to the win, winning the last two points for victory.
Wasting no time getting started, ‘on the go’ Paul Lawrence teamed up with
SATURDAY, October 5
Ladies’ 18 Hole Stableford
‘tricky’ Mick Gervasoni to go into combat against ‘King’ Richard Morgan and ‘fully focussed’ Jason Mullins in the first of many tough games each had contested for the night.
With all four covering more ground than the MCG, the game was played hard and fast down the centre, and around the boundaries in a spectacle that left onlookers worn out.
The ball was belted with precision, and a bit of luck, until Paul and Mick went for the kill and registered a 2523 tie-break victory.
After hearing of the popularity of the weekly competition, New Zealander Eleanor Upton ‘crossed the ditch’ to gain first-hand experience of the local event.
While partnering the irrepressible Phoebe Morgan to take on ‘non-stop’ Katie Woodberry and Adam Bosley, it was clear to see Eleanor was not new to the sport, as she supported Phoebe in both attack and defence in a game that
Winner: Lee Freeland (King River Café Vch) 44.
Ball Winners: Judy Fogarty 2 balls 37, Linda Stone 34. NTP: 4th Di Murphy, 8th Lee Freeman, 13th Marilyn Pane, 17th Judy Fogarty.
Saturday, October 5: Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade Winner: Ian Dinsdale
38. R/Up: Steve Fisher 36. B Grade Winner: Harry Smart 45. R/Up: Rick Harnwell 42. C Grade Winner: Kelvin Archer 41. R/Up: Gary Dinsdale 35. D Grade Winner: Russell Stone 38. R/ Up: David O’Connor 36.
Ball Winners: Peter Challman 37, Glenn Ryan 36, Paul Stacey 35, Greg Rigoni 35, Pat Ernst 35, Glenn Hunt 35, Gary Dinsdale 35, Peter Glidden 34, Alex Jones 34, Brian Luxford 34, Robert Voss 34, Chris Palmer 34, Wayne Hibberson 34, Rhys Rigoni 34, Mitchell Bush 33.
NTP: 4th Rick Harnwell (Aroma Deli), 8th Peter Glidden (Wangaratta Kebabs), 13th Adam Anderson (Fraser Jeffrey Finance), 17th Kelvin Archer.
Sunday, October 6: Stableford Winner: Jayden Forge (Howlong G.C) 37.
Ball Winners: Matt Sanders (2) 37, Andrew Skewes 36, Martin Hill 34. NTP: 4th Bronte Bruce, 8th Bernie Grealy, 13th Eon Scott, 17th Eon Scott.
Tuesday, October 8: Stableford Winner: Jackie O’Brien 37.
Ball Winners: Janet Wraith (2) 36, Joy Hester 34, Di Murphy 33, Robyn Ottaway 33. NTP: 8th Jacqui O’Brien, 13th Bruna McDonald, 17th Di Murphy.
Wednesday, October 9: Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade Winner: Michael Munro
39. B Grade Winner: Mark Hall 35. C
Grade Winner: Michael Baillie 37. Ball winners: Noel Holmes 37, Keith Moorhead 37, John Fitzgerald 34, Gary Dinsdale 34, Andrew Walker 34, Steve Fisher 34, Ian Harbourd 34, Neville Hogan 34. NTP: 4th Keith Moorhead, 8th Ian Weidemann, 13th Gordon Patterson.
Wednesday, October 9: Men’s 9 Hole Stableford
highlighted each player’s strengths.
Katies’s long, low drives, Phoebe’s all-round court coverage, Adam’s consistency on both sides of the body, and Eleanor’s lively foot and hand speed, all combined to make the game very competitive to play and good to watch – both pairs won the tie-breaker.
With many games already under their belt, Gary Coad
A Grade Winner: Mitchell Bush 19. B Grade Winner: Mal White 20. C
Grade Winner: Peter Collihole 19.
Ball winners: Brendan Nolan 2 balls 18, Steve Rigoni 17, Greg Rigoni 17, Jim D’Arcy 17, Rog Henderson 17. NTP: 4th Rhys Rigoni, 8th Mitchell Bush.
WGC Competitions: Week ending October 6
Tuesday, October 1
Women’s 18 Hole Stroke Event
Monthly Medal
Winner: Barbara Thomas 70. Runner Up: Lorraine Adams 70.
Ball Winners: Jan Hill, Dawn Fleet, Karen Smith, Glenda Dodson, Barbara Woodward, Liz Madden, Lois Fitzpatrick, Gail Dodd. NTP 9th: Lorraine Adams. NTP 16th: Glenda Dodson.
Putts - Dawn Fleet 25
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Angela Watson 16 points. Runner Up: Wendy Stephens 15 points.
Wednesday, October 2: Men’s Competition - 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Daniel Bihun 42 points.
Runner Up: Ray Hutton 39 points.
Ball Winners: Arnold Sparks, Rod Moyle, Trevor Trimble, Ashley Clayton, Paul Judd, Phillip Winnell, Bill Dodd. NTP: 4th Matthew Walsh, 7th Daniel Bihun, 9th Michael Webster, 11th Ray Hutton, 16th Rod Moyle.
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Keith Fleet 23 points.
Runner Up: Walter Auer 17 points.
Ball Winners: Graham Whitehead.
Women’s: Thursday, October 3: 18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Jan Hill 40 points. Runner Up: Lorraine Adams 36 points.
Ball Winners: Barbara Woodward, Ros Gormly. NTP: 9th Glenda Dodson.
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Maggie Ray 20 points.
Runner Up: Rosemary Webb 16 points.
NTP 11th: Rosemary Webb. Friday, October 4:
9 Hole Medley Stableford Saturday, October 5
and Pete Spring stood tall when they lined up against ‘down to earth’ pair James Coles and Theo Poulos.
Undermining their opponents, James and Theo kept the ball low, long and fast, making every point difficult for their ‘tall timber’ opponents, Gary and Pete, to gain the upperhand in a game where neither pair were prepared to surrender.
No final scores recorded,
Men’s Competition: 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Josh Owen 39 points.
Runner Up: Rod Moyle 38 points.
B Grade Winner: Matt Fischer 41 points. Runner Up: Mark White 40 points. C Grade Winner: Jared Lea 39 points. Runner Up: Luke O’Brien 38 points.
Ball Winners: Robert Holloway, Denis Hill, Christopher Martens, Trevor Clark, Darren Burns, Jake Goddard, Ethan Bell, Scott Thomson, David O’Brien, Craig Donoghue, David Woodstock, Daniel Lacey, David Altair, Darren Hovey, Somusundrin Naidoo, Matt Nicolosi, Frazer Dale, Arnold Sparks, Joshua Camilleri, John Mullins. NTP: 4th Scott Thompson, 7th Paul Verdon, 9th Michael Webster, 11th Mark White,13th Robert Holloway,16th Jason McCoy.
Birdies: McDonalds - Jason McCoy. KFC - Jason McCoy, Martin Anania, Max Webster. Subway - Darren Burns.
Secret 6: Matt Fischer
Raffle Winner: Nick Jones.
Sunday, October 6: 18 Hole Medley Stableford
Winner: Jake Goddard 38 points. Runner Up: David O’Brien 37 points.
Ball Winners: Jared Lea, Frazer Dale, Ethan Bell.
9 Hole Medley Stableford
Winner: Harry Allan 20 points.
Runner Up: Nikole Cunningham 20 points. Ball Winners: Kris Allan.
RESULTS for Monday, October 7 are as follows:
Janet Kelly and Maureen O’Keefe d John Colman and Terry Wilson
7/6, Shirley Godfrey and Gavan Kelly d Yvonne McLaughlin and Nathan Reynolds 5/4.
Last Friday the North Eastern Croquet association held their Handicap Doubles Tournament at Wodonga with twenty four pairs entered.
The overall winners were Mavis and Trevor Peters from the Goulburn Valley with Susanne Nielsen and Rod Bensley from Howlong runners up.
October is Victorian Seniors month and everyone is welcome to Come and Try our great game on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday.
No booking is necessary, but
but big smiles and back slapping indicated it was a game well fought out to the end.
In a great game which seemed would never end, ‘marketeer’ Janet Heath and schoolgirl Millie Bosley were in fine form when they faced up to ‘been there’ June Uebergang and ‘garden guru’ Debbie Brunken.
With four different game styles on display, there was plenty of variety as each pair showed their determination to put the other under as much pressure as possible in both delivery and defence.
But after a number of tactical triumphs, Janet and Millie lifted the ‘silverware’.
When ‘the Don’ Heath and Adam Bosley challenged Martin ‘the Butcher’ and Graham Stephens, sparks flew in all directions from beginning to end.
While the contest was hard-fought, the light-hearted banter after each and every point made it difficult for spectators to gauge which pair held the lead.
However, regardless of
please wear flat soled, covered footwear (no heels).
All necessary equipment and instruction is free of charge for Come and Try participants.
Play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, with twilight play from 6.00pm on Wednesday evenings.
Visitors are welcome to come and enjoy some games with our members.
Please arrive 15 minutes before play commences to allow the draw to be done.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.
WARBY Range Bushwalkers News for October 11: Wednesday, Oct 2 Beechworth Historic Park.
Four walkers set off from Ingram’s Rock down past Fiddes Quarry to the Precipice where we had our first morning tea overlooking the Woolshed Valley.
Then we took the walking track from the Precipice down to Spring Creek.
It was a steep downward trek until we emerged at the Ponds Track near an old dam wall.
Instead of taking the track back up to the Precipice we chose to walk along the Ponds Track viewing the nearby water treatment lakes with plentiful birdlife.
After our second morning tea break, we started the steep climb back to Ingram’s Rock.
Although only a shortish walk (about 6 kms) by the time we reached the cars at Ingram’s Rock we all felt suitably exhausted due to the steep gradient on our return journey.
Saturday, Oct 5. Magpie Creek Historic Area.
Eight walkers met at Wooragee.
From there we drove to Pieter’s property where we were shown a very old Aboriginal Ring Tree with three rings.
We came across a wombat whilst
who won, it was a game very much enjoyed by all, as after shaking hands, they swapped partners, and it was on again.
An exhausting, but enjoyable match was toughed out when Kate Cole and Manni Poulos faced Cheryl Coad and Clive Brooker in a noholds-barred game that had spectators biting their nails.
After a long and fierce battle, and with nothing left to give, it came as no surprise to hear one pair had won 27-25.
Following a night of social and physical enjoyment, everyone relished the recuperative cuppa and supper while chatting about next week.
A reminder of the group’s final night for season 2024 will be held next Monday, October 14, and everyone is invited to wear their favourite sporting gear.
We’re looking forward to seeing all players who have taken part in the competition during the year.
Bright your own bat, $2 entry, and a plate to share.
enroute to the Magpie Creek Historic Area and the Magpie Creek Gold Mining Diversion Sluice.
The stone retaining wall was built by Chinese miners from local granite blocks in the 1860s.
Pieter was able to explain the function of the wall which was to divert the creek away from the bedrock, so the miners had better access to the alluvial gold.
We had our morning tea overlooking the serene Chinamen’s Dam and then headed south along the reserve, until we came to a small waterfall where we had our lunch.
It was only a short walk to the southern end of the Historic Area where the cars awaited our return.
Thank you to Pieter for his generosity of time and knowledge.
Coming Events
Sunday, October 20
Eagle Point and Mollison’s Galleries, Mount Buffalo NP (Michael, 0447 617 880)
An easy/medium return walk of approx 8km to Og, Gog and Magog and Eagle Point, or a hard return walk of approx 18km that continues past Eagle Point to Mollison’s Galleries.
Both walks are mostly on bush tracks in Mount Buffalo NP and have excellent views.
Saturday, November 2
White Box Walk, Chiltern-Mt Pilot NP (Jeanette, 0417 546 974)
An easy loop walk of approx 8.5km on the White Box Walking Track in the Chiltern – Mount Pilot National Park.
The walk is mostly on bush track, with some gravel road sections, it starts and finishes at the Honeyeater Picnic Area and takes in the former goldmining landscape and remnant Box-Ironbark Forest.
Local walks from Bushwalking Victoria’s “Try Bushwalking Month November” – includes our White Box Walk at Chiltern (Sat, 2 Nov, 8:15am - 1pm); Mt Glenrowan via Chick Hill (Sun, 17 Nov, 8:15am - 2:30pm); and Kangaroo Hill, Eldorado. (Sat, 30 Nov, 8:15am - 3:30pm) – for other regional walks see https://ticketing.humanitix.com/tours/try-bushwalkingmonth-with-bushwalking-victoria.
By WILLSON MACK
A NEW bowls season has dawned and Wangaratta Bowls Club will once again have four sides in the weekend pennant competition.
The local club will have teams in the A1, A4, new A5 and B1 divisions for the weekend pennant, along with A1, A2, B1 and B2 in the midweek competition.
Wangaratta’s B2 midweek team has merged with Wareena Park Bowls.
Wangaratta’s A1 team just missed out on finals last season and bowler Maurie Braden is hopeful his side can sneak into finals in 2024/25.
“I’d say we’ll be around the same mark as last year,” Braden said.
“Wodonga, Corowa RSL, and Yarrawonga will be the top sides and then the other five will be battling for that fourth position I would think.
“We had a practice match against Myrtleford last weekend and did okay with a few players out so hopefully that was a positive sign.”
Wangaratta will be hurt by the loss of Jodie Fruend who has relocated to Port Macquarie due to her husband Craig’s employment.
“Jodie will leave a massive hole,” Braden said.
“It’s sad to see her go but it will present an opportunity to someone else to step up in A1.
“Her husband Craig got a job up there and they were
also looking for a change so we wish them all the best.
“She’s playing for NSW at the nationals in Tweed Heads which is great for her.”
Braden said the club’s greens are looking as good as ever at this time of year.
“The greens are fantastic,” he said.
“They look as good as they ever have coming out of winter I reckon.
“We’re hosting the O&M pairs in a couple of weeks so it’s good to have all four greens in great shape.”
This weekend, the A1 face the toughest assignment in the competition facing Wodonga at Wodonga, A4 play Benalla at home, A5 hosts Wodonga and B1 take on Myrtleford away.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IT’S said an army marches on its stomach and the same could be said for sports clubs, and something delicious is about to be plated up at Wangaratta Dragons Hockey Club.
The Dragons secured a tasty $10,000 grant through the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Community Grants Program to help build a new canteen by the club’s Cathedral College home field.
As it stands, when it comes to catering for their rapidly growing club and visiting teams, it’s been a slap-dash process which couldn’t happen every week due to costs and volunteer hours.
Club president Daniel Warner said the project was a long time coming, and vitally important to the club.
“When we have a barbecue or anything like that at Cathedral (College), it involves setting up gazebos, dragging up barbecues, bringing out eskys and all that stuff, whereas if we set up a permanent canteen beside the field it means we can have a fridge, a canteen, a powered facility we can store stuff in,” he said.
“We’ve done that for a couple of years but we actually really struggled this year, we had to pick and choose which weekends we were going to do
“We had to make sure we had lots of teams and people at home to make it worthwhile.
“It’s good that we’ve got so many amazing volunteers, we get a lot of parents of players who step up to come and help us run it, sell sausages and that sort of stuff when we did run it.
“It just meant we missed out on a lot of opportunities because there were times when we just didn’t have enough teams playing at home or didn’t have quite enough volunteers to make it worthwhile.
“It’s just a matter of coming and opening a canteen up, operating out of that rather than having to spend countless volunteer hours setting up facilities.”
Warner said the grant could cover approximately half of the cost of the project, while the rest could come from the club and their dedicated and talented members.
“The $10,000 will cover about half of the remaining costs, which will be good, and the club will put in the other half,” he said.
“The building itself, we’ve got a few plans - with volunteer labour, we’ve had a lot of really generous club members that are tradespeople in specific fields like plumbing and electrical and cabinet making.
“We’ve even got some members in the fast food industry who are going to supply us with some appliances for the canteen.
“Hopefully by the start of the season last year we’ll have to ready to roll.”
By WILLSON MACK
THERE’S no better way to kick off a new cricket season than a grand final rematch and that’s what we have in store for the WDCA opening round.
Rovers United Bruck will be hoping they can get revenge on Yarrawonga Mulwala tomorrow although they will have to overcome the reigning premier’s home ground advantage.
The Hawks got rolled by Yarrawonga Mulwala in last year’s grand final, bowled out for just 50 when chasing 123.
But it’s a new season and the new look Hawks will be looking to make a statement in the opening round.
“There definitely isn’t a better way to start the season off,” RUB skipper Paddy McNamara said.
“Yarrawonga at Yarrawonga is always a tough game but it’s enjoyable because they have such a beautiful ground.
“After the disappointment of last season it’s a great way to start a new year.”
Round one’s always an unknown with all sides eagerly awaiting to find out how they’ll stack up.
“This weekend’s definitely an unknown,” McNamara said.
“Yarrawonga went deep in the footy season so you never know who they’re going to put out on the park this weekend.
“With them you always know they’re not going to give you many bad balls with their bowling and their top four or five batters are top class.
“We’ve got a new look squad as well so it’s a great opportunity to get a look at them as well.”
While the RUB has lost Bailey Dale, Jacob Beattie, Josh O’Donohue, Josh Ansell and Matt Winter, they’ve recruited well to offset the damage.
McNamara’s younger brother
Reid will be looking to make waves in his first full year of A grade cricket, while new recruit Charith Perera and English imports Ryan Collier and Dan Jones give RUB new options.
“Reid played a couple of games last year and held his own but was
still probably a little bit young so now that he’s a year older I think he’s primed to have a good year in A grade,” McNamara said.
“Ryan Collier and Dan Jones are our two imports, they both class themselves as all rounders but I would say one’s more of a top order
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THE City Colts’ A grade squad looks to take another step up as the WDCA competition commences tomorrow.
With a formidable list comprising of established names, new faces and talented youngsters, the Colts will look to continue the form which saw them finish third last season when they take on the daunting Beechworth Wanderers at Bill O’Callaghan Oval in a onedayer.
A grade skipper Mitch Giggins said there was something in the air at the Barr Reserve, and everyone was eager to rip into what will hopefully be a successful season.
“There’s something about it this year, it seems to have come around quick, and it seems a lot of people are pretty keen to play,” he said.
“We had a look and we’ve got our A and A reserve pretty well locked in and all ready to go on Monday night, and that never happens.
“We’ve got a lot of young kids who have graduated out of 16s and into seniors, and as much as we love them playing their 16s, they’re so much better players when they’re only playing the one game on the Saturday.
“I think we’re in for a good year as a club.”
The Colts will need to be on their game with both bat and ball against the Wanderers, who finished fourth overall last season and boast one of the strongest top order batters in the competition.
Giggins said if their form at training could carry over into the game, the Colts would be hard to stop.
“We got into it pretty early because we had a few guys not make O&K finals, so a few of us have been having quite a few hits which is good,” he said.
“We got in early, tried to beat the daylight savings as you do, and just get ready for the year.
“It’s a good year for young Jed Marek – he’s gotten a foot taller and
bat and the other bowls first change.
“And then we have Charith Perera who is a top order batter and has played cricket in Melbourne.
“It’s exciting to have some new players and a lot of them are a bit more mature which we’ve probably lacked in recent years.”
put on a couple of extra kilos of muscle, he’s looking really nice and bowling a bit quicker.
“Now he’s not playing junior league, he can solely focus on playing A grade which will be good.
“Josh and Tyler Nanson have been training for quite some time now and training the house down.
“Tyler’s moving back up to open the batting with me, and I’m backing him in to have a good year with the bat, and hopefully with the ball.
“Josh has worked on his batting for a long time, he’s trying to knuckle in on his bowling because he’s picked up a bit more pace.”
The A grade City Colts take on Beechworth Wanderers at Bill O’Callaghan Oval tomorrow from 1pm to start the 2024/25 WDCA season. In other A grade matches, Benalla Bushrangers host Ovens Valley United at the Gardens Oval, Yarrawonga Mulwala are at home to Rovers United Bruck, while the Magpies have the bye in round one.
LOOK: The 2024/25 A reserve season, which commences this weekend, will not feature two-day
■ From back page
“Unfortunately they’ll receive three weeks of cricket byes, but some of those players might be able to drop down to A reserve if they qualify.
“Ideally you don’t want a bye, but it’s just the way it is sometimes - sometimes the bye’s not too bad in lower grades.”
The biggest change in the senior grades is the C grade, which has expanded from five teams last year to an eightstrong competition.
“It’s good to see, it’s gone from five teams last year to eight teams, with Greta and Benalla having two teams each, which is great for local cricket,” Kelly said.
“It’s a good, even comp, they’ll have 18 rounds of cricket, and they’ll get a couple of long weekends off.
“B grade’s pretty much the same, they’ll have 18 rounds of cricket with some long weekends off.”
While some of the grounds around the area are unavailable in round one due to lateseason football taking place, everything looks in place for the start of the 2024/25 WDCA season this weekend.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
DARREN Bell was never going to leave Hopperland.
The club confirmed last week the beloved senior coach will go around for his third season in the top job with Moyhu.
Under Bell’s tenure, the Hoppers fortunes have improved markedly, with a raft of young players gaining valuable experience at the senior level and setting them up for the future.
Bell said he was proud of the work he had done with the club and was looking forward to continuing it.
“When I first signed up it was originally on a three-year plan to get the club sustainable again and up off the bottom (of the ladder), and now we want to take that next step and get back into the finals for a few years,” he said.
“It was always a bit of a long-term plan – you can see how it’s worked with Bonnie Doon and Greta, it takes five, six years to get up where you want to and ultimately get that ultimate prize.
“We got a lot of senior footy into a lot of boys 20 (years old) and under, and five boys straight out of junior league and they’ve played a dozen senior games each.
“Look at the development going on there, they’re only going to improve every 12 months, so I’m excited to get them all back on board again.”
The majority of the senior list
has already re-signed through the off-season, with midfielder Jordan Hansted stepping up to an assistant coaching role with Bell.
“We’ll drain as much out of his little brain as we can, with the experience he’s had over the last 10 years in successful sides,” Bell said.
“He turned up halfway through the year last year and was coming back from injuries and whatnot, so he’s really excited to get his teeth into it.
“We’re still working on another couple of boys who might be able to assist us in the next month or two.
“It’s looking like we’ll have a good little group there to work with.”
The reserves will be led by Mario Anania, who took the youthful list to a semi-final last season.
“He’s just so good with the young ones,” Bell said of Anania.
“Once again, we’ve got a young list with a few older boys topping up to help us get through, and he’s just so good with them.
“He’s so good with training and all the things we do there Tuesday and Thursday, so I’m rapt to have him back on board as well.”
The Hoppers finished last season
eighth on the senior ladder, but a strong preseason will set the stage for a massive campaign in 2025.
“We finished six or seven weeks ago, so we’re raring to go, all the young boys know they need to put a big preseason in to be able to compete with these bigger, older boys,” Bell said.
“There’s a bit more interest than last year, which I’m excited about, we might be able to pick up one or two around Christmas time, really get the wheels turning and hopefully get some excitement around the place.”
By WILLSON MACK
THE Wangaratta Turf Club is gearing up for one of their premier events of the year.
After a four year hiatus, their Melbourne Cup race day will be full of action in 2024 with quality racing and plenty of entertainment on show.
A strong line-up of local musicians will perform with DJ Jimi Neutron playing throughout the day on the raised lawn area, Marc Paolo singing a great range of everyone’s favourite tunes, Mr Riff Music providing music in the Grand Oaks Room and DJ M-Key playing a two hour set at the winning post to conclude the day.
Face painting will also be on offer for the kids.
Wangaratta Turf Club chief executive officer Sean Barrett said the club can’t wait to have a crowd on course for the race that stops the nation.
“The club is thrilled to welcome our Melbourne Cup Day races back for the first time since 2019,” Barrett said.
“It’s such a huge event for the community and we can’t wait to see people enjoying the races and entertainment we’ll have on offer.
“It’s the biggest lineup of
entertainment we’ve had for a race day in probably five or six years so it’s great that we’re able to support local artists by giving them the chance to play in front of a strong crowd.
“We can’t wait for them to add to a great atmosphere for one of our showcase events.”
Ticket sales for the return of the Ovens Ford Melbourne Cup Day Races are selling fast, with the Party on the Hill and Grand Oaks packages proving popular with the punters.
Local brew bar, Old Faithfull’s will feature prominently with a premium marquee location and a deluxe offering for guests, including an exclusive Aperol spritz station with tickets for this package available directly from Old Faithfull’s Brew Bar.
“Our Grand Oaks and Party on the Hill packages have been really popular,” Barrett said.
“It’ll also be great to have Old Faithfull’s with us with their marquee providing plenty of refreshments for patrons.”
Fashions on the Field is always a highlight of the day, offering a range of categories and prizes for contestants.
For more information on the day, visit https://country.racing. com/wangaratta/calendar/ melbourne-cup-day.
UP AND COMING CRICKET:
The junior cricket season is here for under 12s, under 14s, and under 16s.
THE summer of cricket in the Wangaratta region commences tonight, with matches on Friday night and across the weekend to kickstart the under 12, under 14 and under 16 competitions.
A total of 37 teams are locked in across the three age ranges, which will again include two under 12 divisions.
The numbers in the under 14 bracket have increased to see 14 teams enter, while only six teams will contest the under 16 competition, a decrease of two from the 2023/24 season.
While a decline in the number of teams in the top age bracket was a concern, WDCA junior cricket coordinator Wayne Cooper said it was likely an anomaly left over from the COVID years.
“There are only six teams (in under 16s) - Rutherglen, Yarrawonga-Mulwala, Wangaratta Magpies and Greta all dropped out after they nominated teams, so it’s a bit of a concern,” he said.
“We’re putting it down to those years being the COVID ones, hopefully – there seems to be an increase after that.
“There’s a drop off in every sport at that age group, it happens in footy as well.
“The number of teams is up in under 12s, up by two in the under 14s, but it’s down in the under 16s, so overall it’s about the same (as last season).”
Dates have been locked in for junior representative cricket, taking on Shepparton first up on November 24.
Fixtures against Murray Valley (December 8) have also been confirmed, with junior country week and Northern Rivers Country Week set for the new year.
IT seems like just yesterday the stumps were being pulled down and the whites were given one last wash, but 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.
The top levels of the association will look a bit different to last season, with Delatite dropping down to A reserve, leaving seven teams in the A grade, while the A reserve competition itself has moved to a wholly one-day format.
“A reserve are all one-dayers this year, they’ve gone from 36-over innings to 40-overs innings and a 1pm start, the
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
same format as the A grade one-day games,” WDCA president Justin Kelly said.
“Some clubs are disappointed they’ve gone from the combination of two-day and one-day formats to completely onedayers, but it was a vote at the AGM and an overwhelming vote in favour of the one-day comp in the A reserve, so that’s the way it’s gone this year.
“The A grade will all have a one-day bye and a two-day bye, they’ll still play each other once in a one-dayers and once in a two-dayer.
■ Continued page 34
