Wangaratta Chronicle 120122

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022

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HAPPY VAXXERS WANGARATTA’S Tone Road Vaccination Clinic has been made more child friendly ahead of COVID-19 vaccinations for five to 11 year olds starting today.

Pictured are Liam Russell, Brodie Pascoe and PJ Russell.

Full story page 3.

BUMPER YEAR A BUMPER year for beef producers, coupled with a change to prime cattle market days has delivered Wangaratta Livestock Exchange its wealthiest year on record.

The yards surpassed 2020 totals for both the number of cattle sold and cash which changed hands over the past 12 months.

Some 36,219 head of cattle passed through the yards in 2021, selling

Saleyard y p produces the ggoods with cattle sales totalling g almost $ $66m

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

for a grand total of $65,792,277.15.

That’s way up on the 23,948 head which sold for $30,199,142 in 2020.

Oliver Mason of Elders

and manager of associated agents for the yard said the year was above and beyond anything they could’ve hoped for.

“There has never, ever been a better time in the cattle market, ever,” he told the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“We’ve had a fantastic year - in the cattle world particularly, it’s been a record

year on all accounts, I’d say.”

The huge prices and good showings at sales came at the perfect time for the saleyards, with a decision to shift weekly prime cattle sale days being rewarded.

“We’d reached the point where it was make or break - we had to make a decision to do something,” Mr Mason said.

“We basically shifted the sale from a Thursday morning to Tuesday afternoon to follow the cattle market at Barnawartha, and it really, really worked.

“We had good support from the buying group, we had significant increase in the number of cattle, so it’s been a great move for the

Wangaratta saleyards.

“Three weeks ago we had over 1000 cattle in our prime sale, which probably hasn’t happened since about the early 2000s.

“It’s been well supported by the local producers and we’re drawing quite a few cattle from further afield now as well.

■ Continued page 2

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Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Stolen vehicle was abandoned in Euroa WANGARATTA police are on the search for individuals believed to be linked to an aggravated burglary and vehicle theft in Markwood at the weekend.

Police understand offenders entered a Snow Road address at around 3.25am on Saturday, January 8, before stealing a resident’s black Holden utility.

A police spokesperson said the ute was located abandoned in Euroa on Saturday.

Detectives from Wangaratta Crime Investigation Unit are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

SHARE YOUR NEWS Email the Wangaratta Chronicle at edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

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wangarattachronicle.com.au

Caseload spike

By RYAN MALCOLM

THE state’s indoor dancefloors are set to close, as government officials endeavour to curb a rapid increase in COVID-19 case numbers across Victoria.

As of 11.59pm tonight, indoor dancefloors in entertainment and hospitality venues will be closed to the public, but will remain open at private weddings where applicable.

The news comes as Australia recorded its one millionth COVID case since the beginning of the pandemic, almost 500,000 of which have occurred in Victoria.

According to Australianbased strategy group Provocate, more than 800,000 of Australia’s cases have occurred since Omicron’s arrival, representing a 382 per cent increase in case numbers nationwide since early December.

Caseloads in the North East have also continued to rise exponentially, with Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) executive director Local Public Health Unit (LPHU) Lucie Shanahan estimating the region now housed up to 3000 active COVID cases.

The estimate takes into account the North East’s five local government areas (Wangaratta, Indigo, Wodonga, Alpine and Towong), as well as suburban Albury, with almost 2000 cases

Restrictions implemented p to curb COVID spread p

SPREAD CONTINUES: COVID cases in the North East continue to rise, with up to 3000 cases estimated to be currently active in the border region. understood to be in the AlburyWodonga region.

“This is significantly different to the outbreak we saw in October and November which was the Delta variant,” Ms Shanahan told the Wangaratta Chronicle this week.

“We are seeing with Omicron - as I think everyone is seeing in all areas - really high infection rates.

“We know that it’s quite a transmissible virus but thankfully at this stage and hopefully going forward we’re not seeing significant hospitalisation rates.”

North East residents have flocked to testing sites across

the region, with Northeast Health Wangaratta’s drive-thru COVID screening site at Wangaratta’s Showgrounds testing almost 300 people per day over the weekend.

According to Ms Shanahan, the community testing response at screening clinics had largely been driven by a dearth of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) in the community.

“All testing sites do continue to see a really strong response and we know that in part this is because people are still finding it difficult to access RATs and people are continuing to come forward for a PCR test which is

exactly what we want the community to do,” she said.

“The majority of infections are in people between 20 and 40 years of age which is not surprising given the high social period we’ve just come through with Christmas and New Year and the festive season.

“If you’re at all symptomatic or you’re a household contact and can’t access an RAT we ask you to please come forward for a PCR - it does help us keep a really good sense of the level of infection that is happening across the community at any time.”

New rules announced on Monday will also see booster shot mandates implemented in key employment sectors such as healthcare, aged care, emergency services and quarantine accommodation workers expected to be triple vaccinated to continue working onsite.

Those eligible for a third dose on or before January 12 will be expected to be triple dosed before February 12, while those not yet eligible will be expected to receive their dose within three months and two weeks of their previous deadline for receiving a second dose.

To book a booster dose, visit https://portal.cvms.vic.gov.au or phone 1800 571 121.

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

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

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The Chronicle is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council.

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Member

WHAT A YEAR: 2021 was a fantastic year for the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange, with more than $65m worth of stock flowing through the yards this year.

Saleyard produces the goods with cattle sales totalling almost $66m ■

From page 1 “There’s a lot of cattle that would normally have gone to ‘Barny’ that are now coming back to Wangaratta, because the vendors and the agents as well have a lot more confidence in the Wangaratta saleyards now than they would’ve had 12 months ago.”

Changing the prime cattle sales from Thursday morning to Tuesday afternoon saw instant results.

The final Thursday sale on July 29 had just 37 head yarded making $76,331, while the

first Tuesday sale on August 3 drew 335 head which made $690,985.

The 28 prime cattle sales each Thursday from January to the end of July saw 3252 head yarded with sales turnover of $5,777,841 - the biggest being January 14 with 230 head making $40,743.

In stark contrast, the 20 prime cattle Tuesday afternoon sales from August until the end of December amassed 9759 head with total sales of $23,251,052.

Of these sales, 14 had turn-

over in excess of $1m, with the biggest sale being December 7 with 1027 head making $2,525,819.

As the market continues to favour sellers, Mr Mason said 2022 was looking to be another phenomenal year for the saleyards.

“The cattle market is as good as it’s ever been, we’re all very, very optimistic and excited about what’s going to happen,” he said.

As reported in Monday’s Chronicle, the second annual Elders and Corcoran Parker

feature breeders sale last Friday got 2022 off to a huge start, with over 3640 cattle yarded, grossing $8,557,735 in sales, for an average of $2349 a head.

PLENTY IN STORE Wangaratta Livestock Exchange also saw a massive jump in its monthly store sale figures.

In 2020 its 12 sales yarded 11,080 head of cattle, fetching $13,429,169.

In 2021 the 12 sales yarded 20,525 cattle and made $35,879,839.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 3

Vax your kids from today Hospital Hos i al vaccina vaccination ion clinic bookings o open en to o children aged 5-11

By STEVE KELLY COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged five to 11 will be offered at the state run Wangaratta clinic on Tone Road from today.

The clinic, located at 53-61 Tone Road and operated by Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW), originally scheduled appointments for the age bracket to open from January 17, but as a bonus the organisation was able to open up bookings earlier on Monday.

To make the environment more child friendly, the clinic has been transformed into an ‘enchanted forest of protection’, with the installation of fun artworks including hopscotch and a tree for

children to place leaves on when they are vaccinated.

Parents and guardians are able to book online at https:// portal.cvms.vic.gov.au or via the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.

They are also able to book a vaccination through participating local GPs or pharmacies.

There are no walk-ins permitted at that Wangaratta Vaccination Clinic for this age group.

Albury Wodonga Health local public health unit executive director, Lucie Shanahan, said there has been a lot of preparation into planning and preparing for the

rollout and they’ve made some changes to the vaccination hubs in both Wangaratta and Wodonga.

“We’ve created some slightly larger spaces or cubicles so that families and parents in particular can be in the vaccination cubicles with children at the time they receive their vaccine,” Ms Shanahan said.

“Hopefully the vaccination process, which we know most kids don’t look forward to, is a process that’s as simple and as quick and as easy for the kids as can be.”

An additional 18 state-run vaccination sites are coming online for kids vaccinations,

36 family friendly state vaccination centres across Victoria will join GPs, pharmacists, and Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations in a blitz to vaccinate five to 11-year-olds over January and February.

Acting Premier Jacinta Allan said being vaccinated protects children and reduces transmission within families, schools and in the community.

“This is especially true for people who are vulnerable such as grandparents,” Ms Allan said.

“We’re making it as easy as possible for all Victorian children to get vaccinated

with additional support available for children with disabilities, autism or anxiety.”

Meanwhile, through a new $4 million grants program, the Victorian Government is encouraging GPs and community pharmacists to establish additional mini-vaccination clinics at schools in areas that need more uptake, due to identified access challenges or increased risk of transmission.

As part of the new Primary Care Vaccinations in Schools program, grants will help local and trusted health professionals deliver vaccinations to students in

the familiarity and comfort of their own school environment, outside of school hours.

Applicants will nominate the local government areas and number of schools and students they can help vaccinate - then successful applicants will be matched with schools in priority areas.

Successful applicants can receive up to $6500 to cover staffing, travel and equipment costs.

An additional $5000 clinic establishment fee per school is also available, plus additional loadings for specialist schools or small, rural or regional schools.

Drink driver wined and fined

DWINDLING DEMAND: The drive-thru COVID screening operations will move from the Wangaratta Showgrounds back to Vincent Road on Friday, following a decrease in testing demand in the rural city.

PHOTO: Nick Richards

Wangaratta’s screening clinic is moving again

By RYAN MALCOLM THE Wangaratta Showgrounds COVID screening clinic is set to close, following a significant drop in testing demand in the rural city.

Despite only moving to the showgrounds last Friday, the site will return to its Vincent Road base as of Friday morning, following a busy screening push which saw the clinic average 300

tests per day over the weekend.

By Monday, that number had fallen to 218 tests - a number which Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) acting CEO Robyn Gillis said was manageable from the Vincent Road site.

“The Vincent Road site is a much more comfortable site for our staff to operate from, especially on hot or wet days,” she said.

“It also means we can minimise disruptions to the showgrounds

user groups, who have been extremely accommodating and understanding.”

According to an NHW spokesperson, if demand for PCR tests were to rise again, the health care provider would consider re-opening the showgrounds screening clinic.

PCR tests will be available at the Wangaratta Showgrounds clinic between 6am and midday tomorrow, with entry via Evans

Street, before shifting back to the Vincent Road site from 6am Friday morning.

The clinic will then operate from the Vincent road site seven days a week, between the hours of 6am and midday.

Attendees are urged to fill out an online registration form by visiting https://testtracker. covid19.dhhs.vic.gov.au/citizenprefill, in order to decrease wait times.

A DRINK driver will remain without his driver’s licence for much of 2022, after blowing more than three times over the legal limit in July last year.

The 65-year-old Taminick man was intercepted northbound on Tone Road on the evening of July 20, providing a breath test reading of 0.175 after being conveyed to Wangaratta Police Station for an evidentiary reading.

Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson told the Wangaratta Magistrate’s Court on Monday that the defendant had admitted to consuming approximately 700mls of red wine throughout the afternoon, but informed intercepting police he could handle his alcohol quite well.

Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client had begun counselling shortly after his interception, following a sobering conversation with his wife when he identified his alcohol problem.

According to Mr Clancy, his client had abstained from alcohol since October, and had maintained regular engagement with Gateway Health in the ensuing months.

Magistrate David Faram did not see fit to exceed the minimum mandatory licence suspension, imposing a 17 month cancellation from the July incident.

He also convicted and fined the man a total of $750.

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

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Fun for the kids at Benalla Art Gallery THERE is family fun to be had at Benalla Art Gallery during the summer school holidays with a diverse program of children’s workshops taking place.

The workshops will be held in the second and third weeks of January, and activities range from cyanotype printmaking with local artist Maggie Hollins, to a stencil street art activity, and painting en plein air beside Lake Benalla which takes place tomorrow.

Benalla Art Gallery director, Eric Nash, said it was an important service the gallery provided for the community.

“We pride ourselves on delivering something for everyone in the community, and one of the most important services we deliver is a dynamic range of activities to brighten the lives of young families,” he said.

A particular highlight of the Summer School Holiday program is the staging of the annual NGV Kids on Tour program on Thursday, January, 20 from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

The free program, developed by the National Gallery of Victoria, is a series of drop-in, self-directed art activities for children, teenagers and families.

This year’s theme is ‘Art for the Whole Family’ and activities and

THE North East has numerous wine growing regions for you to explore this summer whether you’re a local or a visitor.

Allan’s Flat, just out of Yackandandah, is unique; it is home to the oldest strawberry winery in Australia.

With dry, semi-sweet and sweet varieties, strawberry wine can be served at room temperature or chilled and pairs well with chocolate.

Beechworth boasts approximately 30 wineries in an area which covers Stanley, Beechworth and Everton with most offering cellar door tastings and/or sales.

Cool climate wine varieties in-

Moyhu Market on Saturday THE Moyhu Lions Country Market will be held this Saturday from 8am until 12pm at the Moyhu Lions Park in Moyhu.

Along with the usual array of stalls showcasing fresh produce, plants and preserves, there will also be a Hawaiian theme, with those attending encouraged to wear their favourite shirts, grass skirts or tropical gear for a chance to win a prize.

There will be four prizes for best dressed, with winners to be announced between 10am and 10.30am, and all welcome to join the fun.

Supper dance at Da Vinci BACK by popular demand, The Hoffmans Duo will perform a host of musical favourites when they perform during a supper dance at the Da Vinci Social Club on Saturday night.

Tickets are available for members and non-members by calling 0409 307 606 or dvsc. wang@gmail.com.

GREAT OUTDOORS: Children can try painting “en plein air” beside Lake Benalla during a workshop taking place tomorrow. games are designed to do together or individually.

Kids can discover noisy birds and collect ‘maypal’ (shellfish) from Arnhem Land.

Teens can ‘style a look’ or learn about night time photography using a smartphone, or there’s paper

jewellery to make with images of gold, diamonds and pearls.

NGV Kids on Tour coincides with the NGV Kids Summer Festival which runs from January 15 to 23, with more information at www. ngv.melbourne/kids.

It will also visit the Wangaratta

Art Gallery on January 19 and 20 with both of those popular local sessions currently booked out.

Registration is essential for all school holiday programs at Benalla Art Gallery, available by visiting www.benallaartgallery.com.au/ learn/

Wine country options this summer

By BELINDA HARRISON

WHAT’S ON

cluding Shiraz, Chardonnay, Syrah and Vermentino call Beechworth home and almost every winery boasts beautiful outlooks and/or sloping hills.

The King Valley wine region stretches from Milawa and Oxley to Cheshunt in the King Valley, with 12 wineries based in the area.

Varieties of Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Moscato, Rosato, Sangiovese, Barbera and Nebbiolo are specialties belonging to this group.

Milawa was the first official ‘gourmet region’ in Australia and has been known as the food and wine gourmet epicentre ever since.

Mansfield wine district takes in Lima South, Delatite, Bonnie Doon, Lake Eildon, Barjarg, Goughs Bay and Lake Nillahcootie.

These wineries specialise in cool climate wines such as Riesling, white aromatics, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Sauvignon and many have won awards for their exceptional flavours and blends.

Rutherglen is home to 19 wineries and the region is mostly known for its Muscat and Durif varieties.

Rutherglen wine region touring maps are available to help you plan your visit to each winery and has accommodation options for traditional B&Bs, self-contained options, or one of the local caravan parks.

So wherever your travels take you this holiday season, you know you can pair the drive and countryside with an excellent drop.

School holiday library program ENJOY a range of fun activities at the Wangaratta Library during the school holidays.

A scavenger hunt will be held on Monday from 2.30pm where participants will search the library following clues to uncover items on the scavenger list.

Another indoor games session will be held on Friday, January 21 from 2.30pm until 3.30pm where those taking part can try new board games, giant games or play some old favourites.

Bookings are essential by calling 5721 2366 or email library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

Pete Denahy at the Vine

FIT FOR A KING OR QUEEN: You can find yourself among the vineyards when you travel down back roads in the King Valley.

PHOTO: Belinda Harrison

POPULAR musician and comedian Pete Denahy will host an Australia Day BBQ Bash at the Vine Hotel on Wednesday, January 26.

Enjoy fiddle tunes, bluegrass style original songs and madcap comedy from Pete along with a barbecue lunch from 12pm until 4pm, with tickets available at www.thevinehotel.net.au.

■ More What’ On page 9

SOCIAL CALENDAR

The well ageing hub welc comes to you

THE Wangaratta Concert Band rehearsal returns on January 17 from 7-8.30pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street.

Are you an o older de d er er person?

Are you looking for services and supports?

Please call 1800 319 333 The hub reopens at the Wangaratta Library TOMORROW Thursday 13th January 2022 nhw.org.au/wave infohub@nhw.org.au

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club carpet bowls returned on January 10 and will run on January 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 and 31 from 12 noon.

Cards (500) and Hoy will be held at 1.30pm on January 25 and Euchre will be same time on January 28.

WANGARATTA AL-Anon Family Group meets on

Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street.

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

Contact David on 0403 552 950.

ELDORADO Carpet Bowls begin on January 13 and, thereafter, every Thursday from 12.45pm.

All events are held at the Eldorado Community hall.

NORTH East Victoria Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings are held on

every second Wednesday of the month but won’t be returning until February.

Meetings are held at the North Eastern Hotel meeting room 1/9 spearing street, Wangaratta from 7.308.30pm.

Members are also welcome to join earlier at 6.45pm for dinner prior to the meeting and partners are welcome.

For more information call Dave Edwards on 0401 909 410 or Sally Timmins on 03 5722 5355.

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

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 5

$100,000 grant for NESAY Continued C i d support will ill propell effective ff i llegall project j ffor young people l experiencing i i ffamily il violence i l

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE A $100,000 grant from the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner will help an innovative legal project helping young people on the Border continue for another 12 months.

This announcement follows the recent release of the Pathways to empowerment and justice The Invisible Hurdles Stage II Re-

search and Evaluation Final Report.

Among the positive findings, the Report found Stage II had made inroads in responding to the family violence occurring in young people’s lives, and was an efficient and effective way to reach those who would otherwise not have access to a lawyer.

Victorian Legal Services Commissioner and Board CEO Fiona McLeay said the

serfunding would enable the ser vice to carry on with its work, which is needed now more than ever in our community.

“Like many organisations, the Hume Riverina Community Legal Service has experienced an increase in demand for their services due to life stressors made worse during the pandemic,” Ms McLeay said. “I am very pleased to extend funding to the Invisible Hurdles project, which has

already made such a positive impact on people’s lives and access to justice.

North East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY) is a key partner of the project and chief executive officer Leah Waring said she was “thrilled” that further funding has been secured.

“The program provides a highly valued service for our young people and the NESAY team,” she said.

program, “Through this program strong partnership between HRLS and NESAY has been cultivated and as a result, the lawyers in the program are considered a part of the extended NESAY team.

“We have a dedicated lawyer onsite to provide legal advice and support for the people we are working with.

“The lawyers also provide our team members with information that they can use

to provide additional case support through secondary consultations and training.

“Invisible Hurdles removes barriers to young people accessing legal assistance.

“It has also created a new dimension of case work for our team, as our case practitioners are looking at barriers through a legal lens and referring young people for these needs to be addressed; all under one roof.”

Winton Wetlands needs more friends THE Friends of Winton Wetlands are calling for volunteers to take up the challenge and help refresh the group in its support of the Winton Wetlands Recovery Project.

The project to restore the wetlands to a functioning system has attracted worldwide interest.

According to Friends of Winton Wetlands treasurer Wendy Baker, there is a growing demand for knowledge of the management of natural systems under pressure from climate change and human activities.

“Winton Wetlands is providing a window into managing a range of challenges as a result of changes from the introduction of farming, the creation of Lake Mokoan in the late sixties and the lake’s decommissioning in 2010,” she said.

“It’s easy to be mislead by the appearance of the wetlands as they are.

“If you look past the standing dry trees there is a lot going on in there in a natural vibrant system that depends on the regular wetting and drying cycle of an ephemeral wetland.”

Already the wetlands themselves

WINTON WETLANDS: Local photographer Rene Martens captured this recent sunset image at Winton Wetlands. More volunteers are being sought to join the Friends of Winton Wetlands. have shown an astonishing resilience whenever water arrives, with plant life and macro invertebrates booming, attracting thousands of water birds.

Ms Baker said one of the biggest challenges is to restore the over storey trees, of the redgum in the wet areas and the grassy woodland of the surrounding dry land.

“Visitors to the reserve will see how much has already been done

with tree planting, now the focus is shifting to include under storey species where appropriate,” she said.

In the 10 years since it was established, the Friends group has provided support for the wetland management team in a range of activities including wetland ecology education, planting, wildlife monitoring, the running of information sessions and even overnight campouts to

enjoy the reserve with both day and night activities.

Ms Baker said turtle conservation is an ongoing activity and the Friends group provide support to the Growling Grass Frog Reintroduction (Rewilding) Project.

“The reserve has become a popular destination for bike riders and ecological tourists for both locals and visitors to the district,” she said.

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“In recent times key members of the Friends group have moved on to other things and we are now at the point where we need a fresh start with new ideas and enthusiasm to support this highly unusual project at a time when the environment needs all the support we can give.”

If you want to join Friends of Winton Wetlands email friendsofwintonwetlands@gmail. com.

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Vax your kids against disease

FACEBOOK users this week commented on overstacked rubbish in Moyhu’s central park.

•

FINALLY the time has come when children aged 5 -11 years old can receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Many parents and guardians are expected to make bookings at the Wangaratta Vaccination Clinic, through their GP, or pharmacy.

It has been an anxious time for parents with children aged 5-11, with concerns about their vulnerability to the severities of COVID-19.

And now with schools expected to start back within two weeks there is further concern over the increasing case numbers at a time their children are not fully vaccinated.

Parents are urged to sit down and have a conversation with their children and talk through the vaccinations and what it involves.

The Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre reports that overall, children more commonly experience mild symptoms of COVID-19 disease compared with adults, however infection, particularly in adolescents, still occurs at similar rates.

Emerging variants of COVID-19 disease demonstrates a high transmissibility of infection across all age groups, including children.

There are certain medical conditions which may increase the risk of severe COVID-19 disease in children and these can include: obesity, Trisomy 21, immunosuppressive conditions, malignancies, diabetes, respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis and severe asthma, heart disease, chronic liver diseases, neurological conditions, and disability.

COVID-19 vaccination provides protection against severe COVID-19 disease and hospitalisation and is particularly important for those who have been identified at higher risk of severe disease.

Carly Bunny: We are camping in the area for 2 weeks, have spent a considerable amount of money at wineries, restaurants and general stores. We love the area but it’s not feasible for us to carry 2 weeks of garbage home with us or on to our next destination. The area wants tourism but there’s not enough infrastructure to support it.

Supporting patients impacted by pandemic

11 Incision 16 Man’s name 18 Dwelling 20 First woman 22 Transgression 23 Bookmakers’ telegraphy 24 Feels stinging pain 25 Number 26 More favourable 27 Edges along furtively 28 Responds to 29 Sets aloft 32 Headland 34 Theatrical burlesque

SOLUTION T I C T A C M O R T A L

F A W E D T O H E N I E S S V E S T M E R A N A R S T U S

I N T S E A T R A N N S U R E C S E S T A E R A T E S M O D E R R R S E R E O R I S E D A S S I B L I C K E T I E R E S I S T

T E N E M E N T

B C E U R T E F S T I N E X I A L L T S

ACROSS 2 Swoons 8 Was indebted to 9 Catalepsy 12 Monk’s hair style 13 Worthless animal 14 That time 15 Landed property 17 Restates 19 Fewer 21 Unassuming 23 Bed canopy 27 Unruffled 30 Commit to memory 31 Lifting machines 33 Continent 35 Sailor 36 Golf club 37 Shrewd 38 Heel over 39 Oppose DOWN 1 Human 2 Festivity 3 Beautiful youth 4 Former Egyptian leader 5 Brook 6 Surround 7 Robbed of 10 Puts back

MANY local men with prostate cancer are struggling to ride the wave of the Omicron variant.

Their treatment has been upturned by a health system under strain, and they face increasing uncertainty about the future.

Local men and families who need information, advice, and support are urged to call Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s Telenursing Service.

The service is staffed by expert nurses who are specially trained in all aspects of prostate cancer care.

Whether you have questions about your treatment, or concerns about COVID’s impact on cancer patients, we are here to help.

For men who are struggling with the psychological and emotional impacts of their diagnosis, our team is available to talk.

We can also help connect you to support groups and assistance in your local area.

This year, while the pandemic continues to bluster around us, over 18,000 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.

As Australia’s number one prostate cancer charity, PCFA is here to ensure no man walks alone when a diagnosis strikes.

Call us on 1800 22 00 99 or email enquiries@pcfa.org.au.

Our services are made possible by community donations.

Anne Savage, CEO, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

Betty’s story brought back fond memories

• •

it isn’t being left in the bush however untidy it is in town.

Adam Anderson: I’m not sure ‘skip bins’ would be the resolution. It will encourage Like the campers to dispose of their Wangaratta rubbish instead of taking it Chronicle home. A lot of campgrounds around Melbourne have signs Facebook page everywhere to take rubbish home and there is not a single to have your say. bin in sight for 50k’s. I reckon Our likes total is this issue could be resolved by actually removing that bin all together. It removes the visual queue to dump rubbish.

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12,202

Have your say in Wangaratta Chronicle poll

•

continue to work with council and community to find ways hatwork for all involved Kris Suffield: It’s just disgusting. 1hr after council collected the pile on Dec 28, I witnessed 3 caravans emptying just as much rubbish.

Brett Bell: I am guessing with the amount of people camping at Edi Cutting and up the Valley this will continue to happen. Maybe the council should put a skip bin there during peak times and I guess one way to look at it is at least

Visit our website to vote at www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

We love the area and will be back again for 2 weeks next year, I hope to see more bins available.

Nicole Maree: Carly Bunny there are tranfer stations in the area in wangaratta that is open often and in Moyhu which is open every second Saturday as an alternative.

Leaving rubbish on the ground is a disrespectful hazard..ITS NEVER OK to leave rubbish on the ground anywhere, no excuses. Hope you enjoy your stay in the area. We will

I READ with interest of 94 year old Betty Mulcahy of the Volunteer Air Observers Corp which operated from on the top floor of the old Commonwealth Bank building.

When I was four years old I would go with my mother early every morning to the air watch rooms where my mother did the cleaning.

While Mum did the cleaning I loved looking up at the small camouflaged war planes that hung from the ceiling along wires and seeing the Australian soldiers who got off the troop train that stopped in Wangaratta who would drop into the cafe in a section above the bank for a meal or a cup of tea or coffee.

I am 82 years old Betty and your story has brought back old memories of those days when I went with mother to do the cleaning so thank you for your story.

(Irish) Jack McGauran, Wangaratta

Do you think the Federal Government has done enough to improve access to Rapid Antigen Tests?

CREEPY LITTLE VARIANT: If you ever wondered what the much publicised and equally feared omicron variant of the coronavirus looked like, wonder no more. The Doherty Institute created this ‘false coloured’ image for us to share with our readers, described as a “transmission electron micrograph of negative-stained SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant virions.si”.

IMAGE: Dr Jason A. Roberts, Head, Electron Microscopy and Structural Virology, Doherty Institute

Solutions there for river crossing and Djokovic THE second bridge in Wangaratta argument seems to go on.

There is no doubt in case of a bushfire and other emergencies, many cannot seen more than a few minutes ahead of time, as seen in Kinglake West which I observed as being a danger in 2008 when I was there.

There was no safe way out.

The logical town planners would have a plan in place for future expansion, and as I look at the recent past, I see obstructive behaviour from many in council and local government, wishing to make life difficult for motorists.

The Phillipson Street example is one of many wastes of public money, to benefit few, and must be seen as one of these useless safety concerns.

Keeping heavy traffic out of the city and bypassing it would definitely avoid potential accidents, much more than the seldom used Phillipson Street cycle lanes.

The most logical route to bypass the city would be along the railway bridge crossing near the showgrounds.

Planners have made the street (Evans street) a dead end facing the river, but its obviously a good crossing point.

The part swampland on the other side

has potential to be expensive to change, but its also not going to affect private land holding to any great degree, offsetting costs in that regard.

As far as people jumping up and down regarding tennis player, Djokovic, the horse (the disease is out of control in the public domain) has bolted, and a legal requirement to be vaccinated is not going to change things.

I hope in light of this, a legal decision uses common sense to allow him to play.

He is not going to infect many more than is already happening by locals.

So much for bureaucracy.

After all it’s not about the vaccinations but about the disease.

John Vance, Wangaratta

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words.

Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.

Email

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post

Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 7

Project making sense of smoke impact on grapes

By ANITA McPHERSON A PROJECT involving the installation of sensors in vineyards which will help grape growers make early decisions about their crop after smoke impact, is set to ramp up in the New Year.

The new smoke taint detecting sensors, developed by a team headed by La Trobe University Professor Ian Porter, will allow growers to gather real time data from a site which can accessed at any time via an app on their phone.

A total of 100 sensors will roll out to sites across North East wine regions in two tranches next year, with the first 40 expected to be in place by the end of January and the remaining 60

by April.

Dr Porter said the sensors will log data for a risk assessment app, which is also being developed in the project, with the aim of having them up and running fully by the next season.

He said this season will be about validating the operation of the sensors and ensuring growers become familiar with the risk rating thresholds they will transmit during any controlled burns or bushfires that occur.

“The science behind this has been researched over six years so we’ve tried to get every aspect of a very complex area covered, whether it is different levels of smoke dose, grape and wine diagnostics, mitigation practices and sensory levels,” he said.

“We’re confident now that we’ve got the relationship between all those factors and risks very well covered, which is critical for something like this.”

“A grower will be able to make a call in real time, any time.”

Using what is believed to be world-first technology, the app operates with a traffic light type of warning system, so when there is smoke in the air, a grower can get a clear indication of how it may be affecting their crop.

A ‘green’ reading will indicate there is nothing to be concerned about, an ‘orange’ may point to the potential of needing to take action (if the smoke remains), while a ‘red’ means the first level

Alpine quake minor THE North East has been struck by its first earthquake of the year, with a magnitude 2.5 earthquake epicentring 10km below sea level south–west of Omeo around 8:35am, The low–level quake was the nation‘s seventh of the new year and, according to an SES spokesperson, no requests for assistance (RFAs) were made by local residents in the immediate aftermath of the quake.

yourstars ARIES

(March 21 to April 19) A hectic period begins to wind down. Take time to draw some deep breaths and relax before getting into your next project. A long-absent family member makes contact.

TAURUS

(April 20 to May 20) You’re eager to move forward with a new challenge that suddenly dropped in your lap. But you’d be wise to take this one step at a time to allow new developments to come through.

GEMINI

(May 21 to June 20) You’re almost ready to make a commitment. A lingering doubt or two, however, should be resolved before you move ahead. An associate could provide important answers.

CANCER

(June 21 to July 22) Caution is still the watchword as you move closer toward a decision about a new situation. If you act too fast, you might miss some vital warning signs.

Go slowly and stay alert.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Your new goal

looks promising, and your golden touch does much to enhance its prospects for success. In your private life, Cupid does his best to make your new relationship special.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) That SMOKE PLUME: The new smoke taint detecting sensors have been tested in the field and will be a valuable warning system, helping local growers make an early decision on whether to pick their fruit.

PHOTO: Ian Porter of mitigation may be required to offset potential taint.

Dr Porter said it is a risk tool to be used in conjunction with all aspects of science known about for dealing with smoke taint.

But he is confident in its accuracy, saying it will reduce the need for multiple, expensive analytical tests and inform production decisions.

“The early warning system is incredibly valuable because you can make an early decision on whether to pick fruit or not,” he said.

“In a major bushfire, it will mean you can make a decision on whether to invest 25 per cent of your input costs (incurred between a smoke event and harvest) on expenses such as spraying for disease and the labour required to pick.

“So you could minimise the financial cost of these events by

making a decision early.”

Dr Porter said people in the North East region in particular are already well informed and familiar with working with smoke.

He said this tool will make them more informed during the controlled burn season, particularly coming to the fore during bushfire events when it is “make or break”.

“They may not use it much during the year, but when a bushfire happens, that’s when they will really look at it and want to know what’s going on that’s when it will be really useful,” he said.

“It will tell you straight away whether to worry or not.”

“We have utilized information used for the warning system on a massive number of controlled burns and a large number of bushfires over the last six years, and we wouldn’t have been com-

fortable rolling it out until we’d done that.”

The sensor’s development has been funded through grants received by the North East Wine Zone (NEWZ) representing the Alpine Valley, King Valley, Glenrowan, Beechworth and Rutherglen wine regions.

It includes an $870,000 federal government Regional Economic Stimulus and Resilience grant received by Wines of the King Valley, following the 2020/2021 bushfires, with co-investment

by La Trobe University and Wine Australia.

Those bushfires alone are estimated to have cost the North East wine industry more than $140 million in losses.

Dr Porter said the sensors cost in the region of $1000 each, making them an affordable tool for wine businesses in any smoke affected or bushfire prone regions.

impatient side of yours is looking to goad you into moving before you’re ready to take that big step. Stay calm and cool. Let things fall into place before you act.

LIBRA

(September 23 to October 22) A legal matter you hoped could finally be settled could be a pesky problem for a while, until all the parties agree to stop disagreeing with each other. Be patient.

SCORPIO

(October 23 to November 21) Partnerships -- personal or professional -- which began before the new year take on new importance. They also reveal some previously hidden risks. So be warned.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 22 to December 21) Your associates are firmly on your side, and that persistent problem that has caused you to delay some activities should soon be resolved to your satisfaction.

CAPRICORN

(December 22 to January 19) Favorable changes continue to dominate, and you should be responding positively as they emerge. Someone wants to become more involved in what you’re doing.

AQUARIUS

(January 20 to February 18) A friend wants to share a secret that could answer some questions you’ve wondered about for a long time. Meanwhile, travel aspects continue to be strong.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Stay on your new course despite so-called well-meaning efforts to discourage you. Rely on your deep sense of self-awareness to guide you to do what’s right for you.

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Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NATIONAL NEWS

Push to mandate rapid test reporting RAPID antigen testing is quickly becoming the main way of detecting new COVID-19 cases in most jurisdictions, yet reporting requirements are different depending on where you live.

This week NSW will move into a dual reporting system for infections that includes positive, self-administered RAT results - reported through the ServiceNSW app - and PCR results.

The NSW government has reportedly sought advice on

how mandatory reporting of positive RAT results could be legally enforced or at least made an obligation via the app.

Founder of testing company AusDiagnostics Keith Stanley told Sky News RATs were a “bandaid solution” and expected there would be a return to PCR testing which is more accurate.

He said while rapid tests solved the issue of laboratories being overwhelmed by PCR testing demand there

were issues with regulation.

“The rapid antigen tests that we’re supplying are over 95 per cent sensitive - that’s in the highest category the TGA have looked at - but some are only 90 per cent or 85 per cent sensitive, so there are a lot of variables,” he said.

Meanwhile Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and the Northern Terrritory have already introduced mandatory reporting for positive rapid tests, although it is not

legally enforced.

People who test positive must fill out a form on the relevant jurisdiction’s website which allows the government to track the number of cases in the community.

Public health officials can then contact people with information on managing their illness.

Deputy chief medical officer Michael Kidd says most people can manage the virus at home and did not need to report a positive

RAT result to their GP. He said unvaccinated people, those over 65, people who are immunosuppressed or have a chronic disease and pregnant women should let their GP know if they test positive.

“Very importantly, if people develop symptoms where they have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or feeling faint, they are serious symptoms and they will need to call triple zero,” he told reporters in

UNRULY CROWD: Police and Novak Djokovic supporters have clashed on the street of Melbourne.

Canberra on Tuesday.

In the ACT, a RAT reporting system is expected to be launched within the week.

In the meantime, people with a positive result have been asked to record the date it was positive and complete the online form when it is available.

On Monday, Western Australia lifted the ban on RATs but has not introduced a means for people to report positive results, instead encouraging PCR testing. -AAP

(James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

Djokovic fans, police clash in Melbourne streets TWO police have been injured and a man arrested after crowds gathered outside Novak Djokovic’s lawyers’ office in Melbourne to celebrate a court overturning his visa cancellation.

Dozens of the tennis star’s supporters gathered outside the Flin-

ders Lane office in the centre of the city on Monday night.

Videos show a man jumping on a black car after it left the building.

The crowd, some waving Serbian and Greek flags, surrounded police while chanting “Novak”, before fans were pepper sprayed

by the officers.

Victoria Police said they were forced to use the spray “due to the aggressive behaviour of the crowd”.

A 27-year-old Hampton man was arrested during the incident but has since been released from custody.

Doctors set for Victorian school vax drive DOCTORS and pharmacists will be brought into Victorian primary schools in a COVID-19 vaccination blitz for children aged five to 11, as hospitalisations reach an alltime high.

Premier Daniel Andrews on Tuesday announced a $4 million grants program for GPs and community pharmacists to establish mini-clinics at schools in areas that need more uptake.

Grants of up to $6500 will be available to cover staffing, travel and equipment, with an extra $5000 grant for schools to establish a

vaccination clinic.

It comes a day after the age group became eligible for the jab, though some doctors reported supply issues and parents struggled to get bookings.

Mr Andrews flagged he would soon make an announcement on measures to ensure a safe return to schools at the end of January, which will be “consistent” with NSW. Victoria recorded 37,994 new COVID-19 cases and 13 deaths on Tuesday, with hospitalisations increasing by 43 to 861, including 117 in ICU and 27 on ventilation.

It is the highest number of

hospitalisations since the pandemic began, surpassing the peak of 851 in mid-October 2021 when the state was battling an outbreak of the Delta variant.

Despite higher daily case numbers during the latest outbreak, fewer people have required hospitalisation, largely due to the milder nature of the Omicron variant.

The government has already put a freeze on all but the most urgent elective surgeries, and several restrictions have been introduced to reduce pressure on the hospital system.

-AAP

He is expected to be charged on summons with assaulting police and “acting in a riotous manner”.

Two police, a male leading senior constable and a female constable, received minor injuries that did not require medical treatment.

Djokovic had an immigration of-

ficial’s decision to cancel his visa overturned by a Federal Circuit Court judge on Monday, but Immigration Minister Alex Hawke still has discretionary power under the Migration Act to remove him from the country.

-AAP

Morrison talks to Serbian PM over Djokovic PRIME Minister Scott Morrison’s Serbian counterpart has requested direct liaison between governments about issues over Novak Djokovic’s visa.

The prime minister’s office said Mr Morrison had a constructive call with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic on Tuesday morning.

In the call, Mr Morrison explained Australia’s nondiscriminatory border policy and its role in protecting the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The leaders agreed to

stay in contact on the issue, and to further strengthening the bilateral relationship.

Serbia’s public broadcaster, RTS, reported the Serbian prime minister asked Mr Morrison to ensure the tennis star was treated with dignity.

“The (Serbian) prime minister especially emphasised the importance of the conditions for training and physical preparation for the upcoming competition, considering that Novak Djokovic was not allowed to train in the

previous days, and the tournament in Melbourne starts this weekend,” RTS reported.

“The prime minister also asked (Mr) Morrison to be in direct contact in the coming days and for all information to be exchanged directly between the government of Serbia and the government off Australia.”

It comes as the fallout over the cancellation off Djokovic’s visa - which was then overturned - continues to make international headlines.

-AAP

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 9

Curator talks at textile triennial exhibition Regional Fellowship, allowing him to work with The National Museum of Australia as well as undertaking a three-year process working in the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, UK - a project which won the 2018 Council for the Humanities Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) Australian Prize for Distinctive work.

Mr McEwan has completed a Master of Arts Practice (high distinction) and a First Class Honours (fine art) for which he received the University Medal, and he is a board member of MusicNSW and a committee member of the Arts and Health Network NSW/ACT. In 2019-2022, he is enrolled in an Arts Practice led PhD at the University of Sydney, being the first contemporary artist to be accepted into the Faculty of Medicine and Health to undertake creative practice-led research working with the Sydney Facial Nerve Clinic.

The floor talk will be held in Gallery 1 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday from 2pm until 3.30pm and while it is free to attend, numbers are strictly limited, with bookings required by calling 5722 0865 or visiting www. wangarattaartgallery.com. au.

THE curator of Tensions 2020: Tamworth Textile Triennial will visit the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday to host a floor talk about the visionary exhibition.

Vic McEwan will walk through the show discussing the process, the curator’s brief and providing other insights into the dynamic survey of current Australian textile practice.

Mr McEwan is the artistic director of the Cad Factory; an artist-led organisation creating an international program of new, immersive and experimental work guided by authentic exchange, ethical principles, people and place.

His contemporary art practice works with sound, video, photography, installation and performance, with a particular interest in sitespecific work that creates new dynamics by working with diverse partners and exploring difficult themes within the lived experience of communities and places.

Mr McEwan aims to use his work to contribute to and enrich broader conversations about the active role the arts sector can play in reimagining a better world.

In 2015, he was the recipient of the inaugural Create NSW

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Wild Encounters at the Wangaratta Library SEE the stunning images of renowned local author, ecologist, educator and photographer Chris Tzaros in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library this month.

Every photograph in the Wild Encounters exhibition has been taken in the wild, many from remote locations and others from areas closer to home in North East Victoria.

Each image on display is also accompanied by a short story providing information about the species, in the hope raising awareness about our precious native animals.

Mullinmur Linocut project on display DURING the first weekend of May last year, the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) ran its biennial Across the Arts Forum.

As a part of this forum, local artist Anita Laurence began the Mullinmur Linocut Project and an exhibition now on display at the Wangaratta Visitor Centre brings together the work of 13 individuals inspired by the Mullinmur Billabong.

The collection of works, all pursuing the vision of a collaborative ‘Billabong’, will be on display until throughout January.

Dive in movie at the Wangaratta pool

CONTEMPLATION: Tensions 2020 curator Vic McEwan will share insights into the Tamworth Textile Triennial during the event being held on Saturday.

FAMILIES and friends are invited to enjoy a Dive-In Movie at the outdoor pool at the Wangaratta Sports & Aquatic Centre on Friday, January 21.

The event will run from 6pm until 9pm with food available (or byo basket and lilo - no alcohol or glass) and all welcome, with a charge for pool entry only.

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Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

CFA dons country made uniforms VICTORIAN suppliers will be charged with delivering more than 30,000 new sets of workwear to CFA volunteers across the state, following a $9 million joint- investment by the State Government and a capability funding package following fire services reform.

Shepparton-based Goulburn Valley E&M is one of four Victorian companies engaged in the deal, which will see formal officewear revised for the state’s firefighting cohort.

The new dark blue garments will feature the CFA emblem, with Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) to manufacture shirts, trousers, shorts and jackets, while Goulburn Valley E&M will be responsible for new belts and buckles.

Caps and wide brim hats, as well as new epaulettes and patches will also be supplied by Melbourne-based companies.

Acting chief fire officer Garry Cook said the opportunity to support domestic suppliers was important for the CFA and its volunteers.

“We’re proud to be working with local suppliers like ADA, which is sourcing a significant amount of fabric domestically and using Aus-

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Sean Watson, Charlie Crosby and Harry Finney line up for milkshakes from “shopkeepers” Lachine Watson and Aryan Athauda at vacation care.

PHOTOS: Cheryl Browne

NEW BLUE: Emergency Services minister Jaclyn Symes inspects the new ‘patriot blue’ uniforms of CFA, with A/ CFO Garry Cook and firefighters Danielle Greenwood and Brendan Manson. tralian manufacturers,” he said.

“The new workwear is designed to be unique within the emergency services sector and will bolster the strong and recognisable identity CFA has within communities.

“The workwear is tailored for both men and women, so our volunteers can feel comfortable wearing it while representing CFA.”

The workwear will enter into circulation to be worn by members at fundraising, community management events and while working within incident management teams, while a tender for new personal protective clothing is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

It’s anticipated the new contract will see the creation of 15 Victorian jobs.

Holidays a serious business for kids Wednesday, January 11, 2012

By SHANA MORGAN A NEW shopping district was set up at Appin Park this week - involving primary school children and fake money.

The young shopkeepers were playing as part of the Just Kids After School and Vacation Care program at Appin Park Primary School, which is running throughout the month.

Their make-believe businesses included a

milkshake and takeaway shop, supermarket, beauty parlor and even a bank.

Co-ordinator, Gina Crossman, said the activity not only helped the children be creative, but it put their maths and life skills to use.

“They all love it,” she said.

The Just Kids program is running for five weeks; it started on December 23 with Christmas cooking and crafts and runs until February 3.

Mrs Crossman said the program is available to primary school children all over Wangaratta, including special needs children, but there is a maximum of 35 per day and it is beginning to get very busy.

For more information contact Just Kids on 5721 4799.

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 11

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

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The measure on the back of rising COVID cases seeks to reduce the likelihood of the business being unable to fulfil its important role of publishing, both print and online, for our community.

For news enquiries phone (03) 5723 0113 or email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au, or after hours call 0429 018 797.

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FUNERALS TORCHIA Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mr Felice Torchia will be offered in Our Lady’s Catholic Church, corner Murdoch Road and White Street, Wangaratta on Friday, January 14, 2022 commencing at 1.30pm.

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Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Local people, local places

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OU NO T W

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 13

NATIONAL SPORT

Lutkins joins star AFLW knee casualties KATE Lutkins has rounded off a horror opening weekend of injuries for the AFLW with confirmation that she also has a season-ending knee injury.

The Brisbane key defender, best afield in their first grand final win, joins fellow stars Isabel Huntington and Bri Davey as high-profile anterior cruciate ligament rupture cases from the weekend’s matches.

All are out for the rest of

the season, with Lutkins rupturing her right ACL. Knee reconstructions have been a major issue in the AFLW throughout its five-year history.

The latest injury report had showed ACL injuries were at their lowest in the league last year.

But having three top players go down with the dreaded ACL rupture injury at the start of the new season is a significant blow for the league.

“It’s obviously difficult news for Kate and the club, and we’ll rally around her to provide her with our full support during her recovery,” said Lions women’s football boss Breanna Brock.

“Kate’s got a great support network of family and friends keeping her spirits high, and she’s already looking forward to the challenges that rehabilitation will bring.”

It was a costly loss to Adelaide, with the Lions also

confirming on Tuesday that key forward Dakota Davidson would miss four to five weeks with a foot sprain.

GWS player Chloe Dalton suffered a shoulder injury on the weekend as well.

And in more bad news for the Bulldogs, captain Ellie Blackburn will apparently miss next weekend’s game against Geelong under the league’s health and safety protocols.

The Bulldogs confirmed

Huntington’s injury on Monday and Collingwood did the same with Davey.

Huntington had reconstructions on both knees, in 2018 and 2019, and her right knee buckled on Saturday as she changed direction in the Bulldogs’ loss to Melbourne.

Scans confirmed Huntington had ruptured her right ACL graft while also suffering damage to her lateral meniscus.

Collingwood confirmed

that Davey has a rupture to the anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee, as well as tearing her medial collateral ligament.

The 26-year-old sustained the injury late in the fourth term of Sunday’s victory over Carlton.

It will be the second reconstruction Davey will undergo on her right knee, after also having surgery on it in 2018, and she will miss the rest of the season.

- AAP

Aussies stew on Khawaja selection debate

SELECTION CRUNCH: The pressure is on to pick Usman Khawaja for the final Ashes Test after two tons in Sydney.

(Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)

Smith breaks into golf top 10 AUSTRALIA’S Cameron Smith has entered the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking for the first time.

The Queenslander rose 11 spots to No.10 following his win at the yearopening Tournament of Champions, where he set the PGA Tour’s 72-hole scoring record of 34-under par in beating Jon Rahm by one shot.

Rahm maintained his No.1 spot ahead of Collin Morikawa.

The biggest mover of the week was Australia’s Matt Jones, who vaulted 38 spots to No. 66. He finished solo third at 32-under in Hawaii after setting the tour’s 36-hole scoring record by posting a 62 and a 61 over the weekend.

The top 50 at the time usually receive an automatic entry to the season’s first major, the Masters at Augusta.

Smith is the 113th player to join the top 10 since the OWGR began in 1986, and the ninth Australian to do so. He follows Stuart Appleby, Ian BakerFinch, Rodger Davis, Jason Day, Steve Elkington, Greg Norman, Geoff Ogilvy and Adam Scott.

Americans Dustin Johnson, Patrick Cantlay and Justin Thomas make up the top five followed by Norway’s Viktor Hovland, Americans Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau, Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy and Smith.

- AAP

SELECTORS are confident Usman Khawaja could open but continue to mull more left-field solutions to the headache created by the veteran’s twin tons.

Australia’s XI for the fifth Ashes Test, a pink-ball clash beginning in Hobart on Friday, will remain clouded until medicos cast their eye over bowlers and allrounder Cameron Green.

Selectors’ toughest challenge has been created by Khawaja’s 238 runs at the SCG, enough to earn manof-the-match honours in his first Test since 2019.

Pat Cummins admitted it would be “pretty hard” to drop the stylish left-hander, adding he was in “total command of his game” and boasted the versatility required to open the batting.

Travis Head was an enforced omission for the fourth Test after contracting COVID-19, yet started the series with an imposing knock of 152 and is expected to return.

Marcus Harris is the leading candidate to be squeezed out of the side, although selector Tony Dodemaide was quick to highlight how the under-pressure opener’s 76 represented the “most consequential innings” of a low-scoring Boxing Day Test.

Dodemaide also flagged that selectors agreed with Cummins about Khawaja’s opening credentials, noting

“we’re confident he could do that”.

And the former fast bowler denied it was a simple decision for his panel, also featuring Justin Langer and George Bailey, to pick between Khawaja and Harris.

“That was just a phenomenal performance from Uzzy,” he said.

“Having said that, there are a lot of conversations to be had over the next couple of days. It’s a very difficult one.

“You need to consider all the options and that’s probably the benefit of having three sets of eyes and three minds.

“There’s any number of left-field suggestions you come up with and what George has said, and I agree with as well, is ‘let’s not just think of the obvious’.

“Have the what-if scenarios ... however left field or peripheral that might be, let’s just toss it around and see if there’s any merit.”

Scott Boland’s masterful spells at the MCG and SCG are the most obvious example of the panel’s bold intent.

David Warner, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne are automatic selections.

Asking Green to sit out the series finale would be a shock move, particularly after his confidence-boosting dig of 74 alongside Khawaja.

-AAP

Sabalenka flops again in Adelaide ASH Barty’s projected Australian Open final opponent will enter the grand slam without a summer win following another flop in Adelaide.

World No.2 Aryna Sabalenka’s Open preparations lay in tatters after a 5-7 6-1 7-5 first-round loss to lowly-ranked Swede Rebecca Peterson on Tuesday.

Sabalenka’s defeat followed a 7-6 (8-6) 6-1 loss to Slovenia’s world No.100 Kaja Juvan in her season opener in the South Australian capital last week.

While Barty is a perfect seven from seven this year

after sweeping to the singles and doubles titles at the first of successive Adelaide Internationals, Sabalenka hasn’t won in more than two months.

After failing to make the semi-finals of last year’s seasonending championships in Mexico following losses to Maria Sakkari and Paula Badosa in the group stages, Sabalenka arrived in Australia needing precious court time.

Instead, the 23-year-old will head to Melbourne Park seriously underdone.

Barty has no such concerns.

The world No.1 opted out of this week’s Sydney Tennis Classic, preferring to fly straight to Melbourne to recharge and finetune her game after improving her record against top-10 rivals to 17-1 in the past 12 months.

Barty beat 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin, 2020 French Open champion Iga Swiatek and world No.14 Elena Rybakina in successive matches, all in straight sets, before teaming with fellow Australian Storm Sanders to also win the doubles in Adelaide.

- AAP

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

JUNIOR COUNTRY WEEK RESULTS

BELTED: James Long smashes one back at the bowler.

PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

STROKE: Will Graham

Junior rep cricketers dazzle region

ONE THERE: Thanish Gadela and Noah Whittall work to chase down the 187 total set by CAW Country in their under 14 match for Wangaratta Gold.

JUNIOR representative cricket kicked off over the weekend, with the first few rounds of the Junior Country Week carnival pitting local up-and-coming players throughout the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association (WDCA) against some of the best talent from neighbouring competitions.

The WDCA is fielding two sides in every age bracket, excluding under 17, against sides from the around the Cricket Albury Wodonga (CAW) catchment area and even players from as far north as Wagga Wagga.

Several WDCA squads met

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

with success and played well over the two completed rounds, with some well-known names proving why they belong in their respective A grade club sides.

Rovers United Bruck number three bat Jez Rigoni was instrumental in the WDCA’s win in the under 17 match against Wagga, whose five over spell resulted in taking 2/19 to help restrict Wagga to a 134 total, before working

his way to 45 from 80 deliveries to get his side in a winning position.

It was a harder time on the field for other teams like the under 14 Gold side, which was unfortunately bowled out for 102 chasing CAW Country’s 187.

Team manager for the under 14 Gold side Ian Gambold said it was a great experience for the juniors, with situations around the weather and COVID allowing for more cricket to be played across the region this coming weekend.

“It’s always a bit difficult but you’ve just got to allocate

the grounds,” he said.

“If COVID means the games have got to be cancelled then that’s the way it is.

“The positive is you’ve got two rounds in, two games in, so it’s enough at this state that if rain or COVID affected the games on Sunday, at least you’ve played two games out of three.

“That’s what you’re hoping for, for them to play as much as they can - it’s about getting your kids out playing a game, for sure.”

The next round of play is set to take place on Sunday, January 16, with further matches to be played on the Monday.

Round 1  U/16 Ray Rolfe Shield: Wangaratta Blue 1/58(cc) def CAW Hume 56 A Smith 29 L Phillips 4/7 G Montgomery 2/6 C Ellett 2/7; CAW 117 T Clayton 3/23 P Coleman 2/12 drew Wangaratta Gold 117 A Quinn 2/12 J Furze 2/13 J Wells 2/18  U/15 Noel Bailey Shield: Wangaratta Gold 88 M Bihun 28 N O’Kane 25 M Heriot 4/9 C Deas 3/5 def by CAW Country 98 X Rosser 5/4; Wangaratta Blue BYE  U/14 Geoff Welch Shield: Wangaratta Blue 7/102(cc) J Fraser 52* B Wilson 2/8 D Brijesh 2/21 def CAW 7/97(cc) F Stewart 27 N Sheridan 3/17 V Kreeck 2/17; CAW Hume 57 A Brett 5/3 J Marek 2/12 def by Wangaratta Gold 6/58  U/13 Graham Kerr Shield: Wangaratta Blue 7/141(cc) W Prebble 33* J Benton 31 T Derrick 2/11 def by CAW 9/142 M Collins 30 W Prebble 4/21 K Sullivan 2/40; CAW Hume Heat 9/97(cc) L Phibbs 31* C Ormond 3/5 L Webb 2/4 def by Wangaratta Gold 7/129 X Dodgshun 38* H Kuschert 2/7  U/12 Don Dennis Shield: Wangaratta Blue 4/69 N Leith 27 L O’Connor 2/1 H Bosse 2/3 def

by CAW Stars 159 H Bosse 49 L O’Connor 33 B Maloney 4/26 L O’Brien 2/6 N Leith 2/14; Wangaratta Gold 7/207(cc) C O’Brien 33* H Gibb 32 C Maher 2/17 def CAW Renegades 53 C O’Brien 2/1 L O’Brien 2/2 L Sims 2/7 A Leavold 2/8 Round 2  U/17 Keith Sherwill Shield: Wagga 134 J McCartan 31 CG Manson 25 R Pollock 2/9 J Rigoni 2/19 def by Wangaratta 7/137 J Rigoni 45 T Nanson 41 L Higman 2/14 G Lyons 2/23  U/16 Ray Rolfe Shield: Wangaratta Blue 10/119 J Gericke 4/16 J Wells 2/17 def by CAW; 9/131(cc) J Hood 43 TW Lovel 3/18 S Francis 3/23; Wangaratta Gold BYE  U/15 Noel Bailey Shield: CAW 10/45 D Winter 4/5 X Rosser 2/4 A Crispin 2/9 def by Wangaratta Gold 128 A Crispin 46 M Lovett 35 C Bowles 3/6 J Edwards 3/14; Wangaratta Blue 10/169(cc) AP Storer 45 L Nicholson 37 L Lauder 4/26 F Jenkins 2/19 def Wagga 10/54 T Ford 2/6 L Nicholson 2/7 F Jackson 2/11  U/14 Geoff Welch Shield: Wangaratta Blue 10/107 J McMeekin 3/3 B Gain 2/12 O Crowl 2/16 def by Wagga 4/154(cc) J Warden 52* V Jenkins 33; CAW Country 4/187 E Kreutzberger 50* W Scammell 49 C Odgers 33* N Andrews 29 def Wangaratta Gold 102 C Sawyer 2/6  U/13 Graham Kerr Shield: CAW Country 91 S Williams 46 K Sullivan 2/11 J Benton 2/11 J Torney 2/14 def by Wangaratta Blue 7/140(cc) J Benton 48 J Torney 42 F Semmens 3/20; Wangaratta Gold 6/153 R McNamara 28 C Ormond 27* I Schneider 2/12 M Crawford 2/26 def Wagga 9/128(cc) J Edmunds 34* R McNamara 2/8 R Parsons 2/11 E Jones 2/14  U/12 Don Dennis Shield: Wangaratta Gold 4/147(cc) C Martin 2/13 def by Wangaratta Blue 6/169(cc) N Leith 51* O Lewis 28* G Marek 2/19.

Lack of wind becalms blokarters

FUN IN THE SUN: Cindy Bryant tests out the conditions on Saturday.

JIBE TALKING: Andrew Davison gets ready to tack his BloKart.

PHOTOS: Mel Beattie

UNFORTUNATELY the wind Gods didn’t smile on the North East Windsport Club at Springhurst’s Discover Sailing event on Saturday according to club secretary Mike Reid.

“We all just enjoyed a sausage and planned our next event,” Mike said.

“We had two keen participants but not enough wind to get mobile - the luck of sailing.

“We are not planning another Discover Sailing event this summer, but there will definitely be one or two events next summer.”

The club always welcomes newcomers, but it will depend on what other event is happening and if a club BloKart will be available.

“Look for our calendar on our web site: www.newc.com.au, under “documents” to see what days we will be sailing at Springhurst - usually most Saturday afternoons,” he said.

For more details contact Mike Reid on 0406 269 729.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 12, 2022 - Page 15

SPORT

 Mick Keogh

 Noel Boyd

PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

Lawn players undeterred by weekend storm threat Section: 1 Phil Peck 22-16, John Brunner 21-17, Kevin Callahan 21-20, Matt Allen 19-19, Frazer Judd 13-24

By PHIL PECK

THE thunder, lightning and subsequent rain events that occurred during last week did not put a dampener on the WLTC aggregate competition as a total of eight sections took to the courts on Saturday for round #8 competition Section 1 were sent down to court 20 and from all accounts by the players, the work by the grounds committee over the past 12 months have definitely improved the court surface.

Within the next three months these courts will be equal to the front three show courts.

The playing surface must have helped Phil Peck’s game as he won the section with 22 games.

Coming in second with a score of 21/17 was John Brunner with Kevin Callahan unleashing a few of the famous flat forehands and at one stage even opening up on a flat backhand to catch a few by surprise.

Kevin ended up third with 21/20.

Matt Allen came in fourth with 19/19 from Frazer Judd in fifth with 13 games.

Ben Johnson picked up his first win at the club and by the look of that big booming left hand serve it will not be his last as he won section 2.

Ben’s score of 22/12 edged out Brian Scobie on 22/15.

Coming in third with a score of 17 games was Matt Curran from Maree Sullivan who’s glancing backhand returns had many a player struggling to return to finish in fourth with 14 games.

The good doc in Mike Falkenberg bringing up the rear with 13 games Mario Pane appears to have been toying with his opponents as he completely destroyed any confidence that they thought they had.

Mario’s score of 24/7 is one of the best for the season as he won section

Section: 2 Ben Johnson 22-12, Brian Scobie 22-15, Matt Curran 17-17, Maree Sullivan 14-20, Michael Falkenberg 13-24

 Sue Piper.

3 with Phil Dryden the best of the rest with 14 games followed by Matt Murray and Mark Gorman equal on 12/19 Alan Busk turned back the clock as he won section 4 with a score of 24/14.

Alan’s flat out wide serve had Mike Lairson (2nd with 19 games) leaning to the right to receive but this was to no avail as a at one count Alan had sent down 10 aces for the day.

Coming in third was Noel Boyd on 17 games from Andrew Cope with 16 games.

Greg Renner was at his flicking best as the whipping action of groundstrokes paid dividends to win section 5 with a score of 22 games.

The old silver fox in Pat Flynn is starting to hit his straps (2nd with 21 games) as he has told many under the old oak tree that after Christmas is when you need to be at your playing best, with the tournament, Country Week and club champs ahead of you.

Geoff Allen was holding the net position tight as he finished with 20 games from Peter Curran on 15 games.

Section 6 saw Russell O’Brien win a glass with a score of 24 games.

 Alan Busk.

Russell was peeling off winners at will as he took apart the rusty gate in Des Steele on 18 games.

Simone Weston made the trip up the highway from Mt Evelyn to finish 3rd on 17 games from Wendy Hall in fourth.

Beth Cope finally got back in the winner’s circle with a game high score of 22 to win section 7.

Bradley Bartlett in his first match at the lawn came in second with 19 games from John Shanley on 18 games.

Georgia Allen and Geoff Davidson fought out the remaining places with Georgia coming in fourth and Geoff ending the day in fifth.

Never fear, Geoff will be back to fight another day, and look out when he does.

The old stager in Mick Keogh ventured onto to court 6 and before play had started, he looked every opponent in the eye and informed them that this was his day to shine, so you better look out and look they did as he won the section with 23 games.

Mick’s agility around the court, eg, first serve in, then at the service line for the first volley had the likes of Sue Piper (second on 21 games) and Tony Clarebrough (in third with 20 games) requesting a drug swab

analysis to be undertaken.

Guy Robertson and Tim Dickenson rounded out the section It is only 11 days away until the annual Premier Panels Australia Day Tournament getting underway.

Entries are coming in thick and fast with last year’s open men’s winner in Matthew Peart entering again and from all information around the tennis circles is that there will be many more talented players entering as to capture the coveted trophy and prize money up for grabs.

Locals whom will push Matthew all the way are the likes of Brendan Liddell, Aaron Bruest (runner-up last year) and Sam Allen.

The club is also expecting to receive the entry of last year’s open lady’s winner in Belle Thompson who will be going for the title number six while Michelle Hill, who has won the title many, many times and was runner-up last year to Belle, will also be entering.

To enter, go to the club website www.wanglawntennis.com.au and under events click on Annual Tournament and follow the entry details.

Make sure that you get your entries in early for all grades of competitions.

Section: 3 Mario Pane 24-7, Phil Dryden 14-17, Matt Murray 12-19, Mark Gorman 12-19 Section: 4 Alan Busk 24-14, Mike Lairson 19-19, Noel Boyd 17-21, Andrew Cope 16-22 Section: 5 Greg Renner 22-17, Pat Flynn 21-18, Geoff Allen 20-19, Peter Curran 15-24 Section: 6 Russel O’Brien 24-12, Des Steele 18-18, Simone Weston 17-19, Wendy Hall 13-23 Section: 7 Beth Cope 22-13, Brady Bartlet 19-13, John Shanley 18-13, Georgia Allen 15-19, Geoff Davidson 8-24 Section: 8 Mick Keogh 23-17, Sue Piper 21-16, Tony Clarebrough 20-17, Guy Robertson 18-22, Tim Dickinson 14-24

Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, y, Januaryy 12,, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Lawn courts defy tempest

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Page 15

Warriors fall short in race for finals

THUNDERBOLT JUNIOR Country Week is underway across the North East, with junior cricketers of all ages taking part, including under 14 WDCA Gold paceman Alasdair Brett (pictured).  Full results on page 14.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

By NATHAN DE VRIES

WANGARATTA’S hopes for a finals berth in the North East men’s CBL competition have been dashed with back-to-back losses against Benalla and Mansfield over the weekend.

After going down by just six points against Benalla on Saturday night, Sunday’s match against the Eagles was crucial in keeping the finals fire burning in the young Warriors’ camp.

Unfortunately, despite a solid lead heading into the final term, Wangaratta couldn’t get over the line, going down by just three points 63-60.

Coach Michael Jenkins said the narrow loss after holding a strong lead was frustrating for the side.

“It was a bit of a frustrating one, it was another one that was there for us to win - I think we were six points up going into three-quarter time and we just let it slip away from us,” he said.

“We had three people from Saturday night who were unavailable on Sunday so Sam Hemphill joined the team and he was fresh legs for us.

“I think everybody got a reasonable amount of rest, because we’ve had a pretty deep squad on Saturday nights.

“So I think, physically, no excuses on the Sunday.”

After shooting out of the blocks early to a four point lead at the end of the first quarter, the Warriors let the pressure off, allowing Mansfield to claw back to be neckand-neck by the half.

“I think we were still feeling pretty good about where we were

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at and what we were trying to do at half time,” Jenkins said.

“They ran a zone all game which we’ve had difficulty with facing throughout the season, but I think we executed the game plan particularly well early in the first quarter to get that good lead.

“Then they tightened up their defence a little bit and we started to go away from the things that had been working for us.

“We got back on track in the third quarter, but credit to Mansfield, they played with great intent and intensity the whole game and belief so any time we’d get a little lead they’d peg it back.”

Liam Wright was the standout performance for the Warriors, top scoring with 14 points, ably supported by Brodie Paul (11 pts) and Charlie Young (10 pts).

The loss keeps Wangaratta on the bottom of the table with three matches left to play, including a clash against top side Seymour this weekend.

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PLAYMAKER: Liam Wright, seen here in Wangaratta’s match against Benalla, top scored for the Warriors with 14 points over Mansfield.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

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