Wangaratta Chronicle 120124 by Provincial Press Group

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FRIDAY, January 12, 2024

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BUSH NIPPERS’ FUN IN THE SUN THERE was plenty going on at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre yesterday, as local kids, including Finch Arnold (left) and William Doxey (right), together with lifeguard Alex Young, were enjoying the Bush Nippers water safety pilot program. ■ Full story page 2. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

Blessed to be an Aussie

Page 3

Oncology unit back in hospital main building Page 5

It’s do or die time Sport

‘YEXIT’ TO WANG Group G p off Y Yarrawonga g residents id t wantt ttown to t lleave M Moira i Shi Shire,, join j i rurall city ity

A GROUP of Yarrawonga locals want the municipality to “Yexit” the Moira Shire and join Wangaratta as an option to acquire the infrastructure and management they believe their town deserves. Going by the name of

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

the Yexiteers, the group is fed up, and ideally want Yarrawonga to go it alone as a municipality, however, they believe joining the

existing towns within the Rural City of Wangaratta could be an option. The Yexit movement was the brainchild of locals Nick Dykes and Johnny Leary Jr in 2022, after years of frustration due to what group members say has been

a lack of infrastructure and “complete mismanagement” of funds by the Moira Shire. Despite administrators set to govern the shire until October 2028, the Yexiteers want action now due to the lack of progress and they’re calling for more

infrastructure such as an indoor pool. In December 2023 group member and long-time resident Daine Runnalls used his creative focus to garner support for their cause by creating a song which has had more than 12,000 views. As of this week the Yexit

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facebook page has more than 1000 members and a signed petition is also going gangbusters. “There is insufficient infrastructure to support rapid growth/booming population,” Mr Runnalls said. ■ Continued page 2

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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Bush Nippers aim to deliver practical water safety skills BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER

jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au

YOU couldn’t help see the irony...but there was a serious silver lining too. A pilot program all about water safety, to be taught at the Ovens River in Wangaratta all this week, was relocated to the city’s 50 metre outdoor pool because of swollen and dangerous river levels from last week’s major storms. Despite the change in location for the the Bush Nippers program, all 30 or so participants aged five to 13 were having an absolute ball yesterday morning. Life Saving Victoria (LSV) presented the program in partnership with the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC), with 10 local staff heavily involved in delivering the five-days of water safety activities and education, with a view to provide further courses in the future. LSV representative Jodie Walker believed the pro-

LEARNING LIFESAVING SKILLS: Enjoying the Bush Nippers program at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre on Thursday morning were (from left) Harry Miller, Finch Arnold (6), Alex Young, William Doxey (7) and Merrill Smith. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner gram in Wangaratta had been very successful, and she praised the professionalism and support from WSAC staff. She said while it was unfortunate river conditions were too unsafe to conduct the course at Sydney Beach, it had however helped reinforce some important messaging to the young participants. “We’ve talked about the

fact the river wasn’t safe to go in because of the flooding...with increased currents and the danger of submerged debris,” Ms Walker said. “We’ve spoken about river safety and the risks...the kids know the river isn’t always safe to swim in.” WSAC manager, Sonya Dalgliesh, said participants have learnt how to put on a life jacket, how to

float in water, call for help, read signs, communicate with adults and how to rescue others with resources around them. Children used noodles and Nipper boards, was well as other floatation devices, with the older children also learning some basic CPR skills working on manikin dummies. Six year old William Doxey, who recently moved with

his family in Wangaratta after living in England and then Singapore, said he had enjoyed all the activities, but particularly paddling exercise on the Nipper boards. “It’s been sort of surfing,” he said. Mum Adelle said the family believed the program was a fantastic initiative that built on William’s basic swimming skills. Fellow parent Tessa Ar-

nold offered similar sentiments. Her daughter Finch, who turned seven on Wednesday, loves spending time in the water, particularly in summer. “She knows how to swim, but this program has helped build her confidence in other areas of water safety and awareness,” she said. “It’s been great and the kids have really enjoyed it.”

Group of Yarrawonga residents want town to leave Moira Shire, join rural city ■ From page 1

BETTER DAYS: Musician Daine Runnalls is a member of the Yexit group that wants Yarrawonga to join the existing Rural City of Wangaratta.

“We have had three meetings with Moira administrators but we fear concerns are falling on deaf ears.” While the group is exploring all options, they believe Yarrawonga would be a good fit with Wangaratta due to its proximity and an overlap of services. “Yarrawonga people gravitate towards Wangaratta for healthcare, sport, education and entertainment,” he said. “It makes geographical sense to join Wangaratta being at the western end of Moira. “We’re also exploring other options with other municipalities. “Ideally we would like Yarrawonga to stand on its own as its

own independent shire.” Mr Runnalls highlighted that in Moira Shire there was $71,987m generated in revenue versus $9.504m in capital expenditure, almost a $62.5 million difference (averages over five years). He said a request by council was made for a further $750,000 of community generated funds towards a multi-sport complex, but residents are still waiting after decades. Moira Shire will be governed by administrators until the 2028 council elections following the dismissal of the former council in March 2023. Rural City of Wangaratta council Mayor Dean Rees has met with a few of the Yexiteers and said

their goal could be “a very long bow”. “They could appeal to the minister (Local Government, Melissa Horne) that they would be better to go on their own like what Mansfield did when they got out of the Delatite Shire with Benalla,” Cr Rees said. “I have also spoken to one of the Moira administrators and they have indicated they want to make the Moira Shire work and work well. “I personally believe that the appointed administrators have a huge wealth of knowledge in local government and are the best people you could get to make sure the Moira Shire excels. “I also believe in these tough

times that to go it alone or join another shire could end up more detrimental.” Cr Rees advised the YEXIT group to work hard with the administrators through constructive negotiated peace talks and get the best result for the community. The former Moira Shire council was dismissed following a commission of inquiry investigation, which found that it could not effectively carry out its responsibilities in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 because of significant governance failures. The investigation into the council came after the murder of Rick Devlin, a senior council employee, by council worker Andrew Paterson in August 2021.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 3

Local man charged in wake of alleged $15,000 fraud

Blessed to be an Aussie

LOVE AND COUNTRY: Former Brown Brothers winemaker and chief executive officer, John Brown, was honoured to be named as an ambassador of the rural city city’ss Australia Day celebrations this year, as he reflected on years of community involvement. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

John hn Brown r wn llooks k fforward rw rd to ambassador mb d rd duties on n Australia r l Dayy JOHN Brown shares a love and passion for Australia Day like many others have in the rural city of Wangaratta. An attendee at almost every ceremony in Wangaratta since he can remember, Mr Brown marks Australia Day as one of the major days for the community in the calendar year. “I’ve always thought it was a celebration of Australia for the wonderful country that it is,” he said. “When I hear the news that comes every day, I think of how blessed we are to live in this country. “Wangaratta is a choice part of it because we’ve got so many good things here; we’ve got the peaceful environment, the mountains, the rivers, a good supply of water compared to a lot of other places and a very good place to grow grapes and wine.” For the second time Mr Brown has been honoured to be the ambassador for the rural city’s Australia Day celebrations on January 26, having also done so in 2006. He said he was surprised to have

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

been announced as this year’s ambassador as he slowly steps away from his community roles, but honoured his enduring involvement in community service was still being recognised. The retired winemaker and chief executive officer of the Brown Wine Family Group has had a heavy involvement within the community through his work and volunteering with the local snow skiing industry and as regional deputy group officer at the Wangaratta fire brigade, which earned him an Order of Australia award for his service. Perhaps his biggest involvement within the community was his role as chairman of council’s economic development advisory committee for almost 20 years. Looking back on his community involvement, the 82-year-old said he has been blessed to have been so

involved with the community and grateful for his home country. “I’ve been fortunate in my working life where I’ve travelled a lot overseas, almost all of it involved chasing wine industry interests but I’ve also had the freedom here to do a lot of inland travel and I think a lot of Australia should have a good look at what we’ve got here before they jump on a plane and go offshore,” he said. “I’ve been a very keen desert traveler over the last 20 or 30 years and travelled extensively throughout the central deserts of Australia, usually taking groups of people with me and I’ve found it a really interesting pastime and sort of cements your spirit in the whole of Australia.” Over time, Mr Brown has witnessed the changes in societal views on the date of the Australia Day celebrations, which has become a hotly debated concept in recent year. He said as a long-term lover of the celebrative day, it has been saddening to see the division of Australians

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around their views on the date. “I’m disappointed it’s got all of the political issues around it these days, it used to be a solemn thing everyone agreed was the right thing to do and now it’s up in the air a bit,” Mr Brown said. “It shouldn’t have happened, I’ve had the privilege of visiting 30 or 40 Indigenous communities out in the desert country, and they’re wonderful people. “They’re really welcoming and take you into their communities; my wife is a textile artist and was immediately welcomed into their art room and got to talk to the elders about their paintings.” Mr Brown said he was looking forward to once again attending this year’s ceremony at King George Gardens from 9am on Friday, January 26 and honouring the community spirit. “It’s one of the things you do if you’re a dinkum Aussie, to go and celebrate the day and join with other people who feel the same way about it,” he said.

DETECTIVES have charged a local man following a series of alleged fraudulent purchases totaling up to $15,000 late last year. Police recently searched a Wangaratta property and charged a 28-year-old rural city man with multiple counts of obtaining property by deception, with further charges expected to be laid. Police are set to allege the man made multiple fraudulent transactions online between September 13 and December 2 last year, using the bank details of a 56-year-old Wangaratta man who was allegedly in his care at the time. The alleged purchases included gift cards, coffee, children’s toys, chocolates, groceries, clothing, gum boots, beer brewing and barbecue products, meals, alcohol, adult websites and cash transactions. The majority of the items were said to have been recovered during the search of the property. A police spokesperson said the accused will face Wangaratta Magistrates Court at a later date.

Repair Café heading to market THE Wangaratta Repair Cafe will bring their offgrid fixing trailer to the community market in Mason Street on Sunday, January 21 from 8am to 1pm. Volunteers will be fixing bikes, clothing, sharpening tools and taking a look at electronics, but they will have a go at fixing just about anything. Call in or find out more via email to fixit@wangrepaircafe.org or go to wangrepaircafe.org.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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MOZZIE NUMBERS EXPECTED TO RISE IN FLOODED AREAS REGIONAL Victorians are being urged to take precautions against mosquito-borne disease, as recent flooding and warm weather create the perfect breeding environment for the insect. Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas visited Seymour on Thursday and encouraged those living in floodimpacted communities to be on high alert in the coming weeks, as pooling water fuels the risk of disease, including Ross River virus, Murray Valley encephalitis and Japanese encephalitis. While mosquito-borne THEY’RE COMING: In the aftermath of floods in the region, residents are diseases cannot spread from urged to protect themselves against mozzies and potential mosquitoborne diseases. PHOTO: Egor Kamelev on Pexels person-to-person and most

cases will be mild, for some people transmission can lead to severe and long-term health complications. Simple and practical steps that Victorians can undertake to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, include: • covering up by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing – mosquitos can bite through tight clothing; • using mosquito repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin; • checking the repellent label before applying to children – spraying or rubbing repellent on children’s clothes is recommended, avoiding their skin

especially their hands; • limiting outdoor activity if there is a significant uptick in mosquitoes and using ’knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent while sitting or eating outdoors; • removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite; and • making sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens. More information about mosquito-borne disease and vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is available on the Department of Health website and the Better Health Channel.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

TEAM EFFORT: SES and CFA members gather at the Gold Coast City SES base last week, amid the devastating storms which saw 4200 calls for assistance in the community. PHOTO: CFA

TEMPERATURES: Friday

Max 35 Min 19 Mostly sunny

Saturday Max 35 Min 20 Possible shower Sunday

Max 31 Min 17 Possible shower

Monday

Max 31 Min 16 Mostly sunny

Tuesday

Max 29 Min 15 Mostly sunny

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

0.0 mm

50 mm

Lake Buffalo

0.0 mm

41 mm

Cheshunt

14.0 mm

109 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Thursday

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

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

Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

Member

Local firefighters fly flag on storm front in Queensland BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

A LOCAL emergency service contingent dropped into the middle of the devastating New Year’s storms on the Gold Coast returned as heroes at the weekend, having worked to protect and save thousands of livelihoods in the area. Arriving on day five of the major storm cell, which is expected to cost the Queensland Government around $2b in repairs, Chiltern CFA members Elizabeth Gill and Peter Hooper, as well as emergency service members from Yackandandah and Baranduda, were buffeted by 402mm of rain on just their second day in the Mount Tamborine community. The crew spent three days on the ground, assisting residents to minimise the scale of their damage, as emergency service members across the state responded to 4200 calls for assistance in a single week. “We were soaked by lunchtime, standing outside putting tarps over things,” Ms Gill recalled. “It was just unrelentingly wet – once you’re completely soaked

BIG JOB: SES and CFA members including Chiltern’s Peter Hooper (centre, yellow) tackled a range of tasks during their three days on the ground on Mount Tamborine. PHOTO: CFA through it just doesn’t seem to bother you as much because you can’t get any wetter, and it doesn’t matter how wet we are because the people we were helping were trying to cope with that amount of wet coming through their garage or their lounge room. “There were elderly people and people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and you needed to be aware of people’s need to talk, and not everybody’s capable of picking up the phone and saying they need the SES’ help because they’ve got this problem. “So it was about loitering with intent a little bit to try and make those connections as well,

and being able to give them the phone numbers to ring to get themselves on the list for specific help from the SES and the support services. “(We were helping) a lot of people who just don’t understand how to respond in emergency situations.” Recruited for her first deployment having recently completed specialised safe working at heights training, Ms Gill said the team had spent three exhausting days working on residential rooves and placing sandbags in the area in trying conditions, which also included sweltering heat. An estimated 1000 homes and businesses are believed to have been impacted by the storm,

with the Australian Defence Force mobilised earlier this week to support local emergency providers. “There was an article on the ABC website saying it was going to take years to address the storm damage from just this set of storms, and from what I saw that is absolutely correct,” Ms Gill said. “We’re not builders, we’re not there to actually fix the problems from a structural perspective, but we’re there to remediate and prevent further damage and make things safe. “By the time we got there it was day five (of the weather event) so the huge amount of branches and trees that were on roads had been moved off roads, and the local units were pretty exhausted by the time we got there, so they were pleased to go home to their own beds.” Ms Gill said 40 CFA members from across Victoria had travelled as part of the deployment, with fellow brigade member Mr Hooper an important support throughout. “He deserves a huge accolade as well because he’s the type who just does stuff, doesn’t expect anything for it but just gets in and does it and he’s amazing to have on your team.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 5

Shotgun bust prompts illegal firearm warning A WANGARATTA man will face several charges in court after a search of his property allegedly uncovered a sawn-off .22 shotgun late last week. The 19-year-old is alleged to have been involved in a traffic incident before speeding from police as they attempted to intercept him. Police abandoned the chase, and later searched a Wangaratta property, allegedly uncovering the prohibited weapon.

The man was later arrested and charged with possess traffickable quantity of firearms, discharge firearm and other drug-related offences, and remanded in custody to face Wodonga Magistrates Court. The charges come following a separate incident on January 4, when Wodonga Crime Investigation Unit detectives searched a Wodonga property after receiving intelligence from NSW Police. A homemade double-barrel 12g

slam gun and multiple stolen vehicles were allegedly located and seized by police, and a 27-year-old man was arrested and charged with manufacturing firearms. He will face Shepparton Magistrates Court today. Eastern Region Division Four crime manager Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Mathew Prestage said both investigations remained ongoing. “We want to send a clear message to anyone illegally carrying

firearms: we won’t just make one arrest and stop – if you’re involved in this activity, expect us to come knocking,” he said. “We will continue to work with police jurisdictions over the border to share information and tackle crime together.” Anyone with information about illicit firearms is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

ONCOLOGY MOVE: The oncology unit and its dedciated staff at NHW has moved back to the main hospital and welcomed its first patients on Monday, January 8.

Oncology service back in main hospital NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta’s (NHW) Oncology unit has moved back to the main hospital building at Green Street after a three year relocation to the Community Care Centre during redevelopment works in the Emergency Department and the COVID pandemic. The Oncology unit provides day chemotherapy, immunotherapy, medical infusions and other supportive treatments for

people with cancer and other medical conditions such as neurology, immunology and gastroenterology. Executive director of clinical services, Bernadette Hammond said the relocation of the unit back to the main hospital building would improve patient access to advanced care if required. “The location of our unit back in the main hospital building provides rapid access to clinicians if a patient needs additional care

during their treatment and to our emergency department if required,” she said. Samantha Cooper is one of the nurse unit managers of the cancer and wellness service and said the relocation was smooth and the team is ready to go. “On average, we support 80 patients in a typical week through our service and are looking forward to continuing this care in our new location,” she said.

“Our team has been in touch with patients to communicate the return to the main hospital building and how to access the unit, which is now through the main hospital entry on Green Street. “A visitor map is on our website and patient parking is available adjacent to the main entry.” The unit welcomed its first patients in the new area from Monday, January 8.

Be aware of latest COVID advice By ANITA MCPHERSON WHILE COVID-19 cases appear to be on the rise in Wangaratta as they are across the state, with no requirement to report a positive test to the Victorian Department of Health, data is limited. Victoria’s chief health officer has said key indicators of COVID-19 infections are showing increasing levels of COVID-19 activity in Victoria due to a new variant, JN.1, with hospitalisation figures up, JN.1 appearing in Victorian wastewater samples, and in increase in antiviral prescriptions in December. Northeast General Practice Services managing director Kim Ching said while there had been an increase in patients presenting with COVID-19 at South Wangaratta Medical Centre, many were self-testing and managing their condition at home, using phone and telehealth consultations if needed. A qualified pharmacist and pharmacist immuniser, Ms Ching said staying up to date with booster vaccinations is recommended according to the latest guidelines. She said South Wangaratta Medical Centre has been offering the new monovalent XBB 1.5 COVID-19 vaccines since midDecember last year, which targets currently circulating Omicron sub variants. “This differs to the bivalent COVID-19 vaccines which offer protection against both earlier Omicron sub variants and the original strain of COVID-19,” she said. “Older vaccine formulations continue to provide strong protection against severe disease. “Available data suggests monovalent XBB vaccines provide modestly enhanced protection from severe disease compared to older vaccines. “We encourage people to follow the recommended public health measures such as mask-wearing in high risk settings and staying home when unwell, during the current COVID-19 wave.” The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) says people who have not received their recommended 2023 dose/s are encouraged to be vaccinated as soon as possible. For those who have had the recommended 2023 dose/s of COVID-19 vaccine, ATAGI is not recommending further doses or re-vaccination with an XBB.1.5containing vaccine at this time.

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Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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New year, and a new day for saleyards monthly store sale WANGARATTA Livestock Exchange is aiming to ease pressure off the local industry with a change of monthly store sale days for 2024. Traditionally held on the first Friday of each month, the store cattle sale at Wangaratta will now take place on the third Thursday of each month this year. The livestock exchange announced the change on Tuesday, which will take effect next week. Exchange general manager Warwick Benton said the sales on Friday morning were clashing with sales from five other selling centres in the state and therefore placing further pressure on the industry to have saleyards cleared by the weekend. “Transport companies were having trouble getting cattle out of Wangaratta on a Friday because their drivers were running out of hours, so they were having trouble holding back cattle from those store sales here on the weekend, it was just putting too much pressure on everyone,” he said. “There’s only one other selling centre in Victoria that’s got a store sale on the

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

Thursday and I think that’s Mortlake. “It gives us a chance on the Friday to clean everything up before we go into the next week.” Mr Benton said the open air of hosting a sale not clashing with regional centres like the Northern Victoria Livestock Exchange in Barnarwartha, will give vendors from Benalla, Myrtleford and Euroa a greater opportunity to send cattle to Wangaratta. The move in days follows the change in start time of the sales from 10:30am to 9am in May last year, which will remain the time of the Thursday sales. Around 650 head of cattle are expected to be yarded for the first of the Thursday store monthly sale on January 19. The livestock exchange will then host the feature blue ribbon steer and heifer weaner sales on January 31 and February 2 respectively, to display some of the finest bred cattle from the rural city.

CHANGE OF THE DAY: Store monthly cattle sales at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange will be changing from the first Friday of each month to the third Thursday of the month, starting from next week. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

Shanley Street development under assessment By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

UNDER WORKS: A planning application has been lodged for the use and development of a rural store and associated accommodation on a large farming lot on Shanley Street and Warby Range Road.

COUNCIL is currently assessing a permit application for the use and development of a rural store on the corner of Shanley Street and Warby Range Road. The permit (ref: PlnApp23/201) outlines the proposed development comprises the construction of a one-bedroom transportable cabin and office related to the current vermin control business Earthwise Vermin Control that already operates from the site. There will also be associated accommodation on the farming lot within 100m of a

waterway for between four to eight workers to sleep, shower and rest between shifts or following long shifts. The existing rural store contains three sheds and is used to store meat that is sourced by workers undertaking vermin control operation through the region. No further native vegetation will be removed from the site to facilitate the development and a new septic system will be installed to service the new accommodation/office and existing rural store operation. Rural City of Wangaratta acting director of sustain-

ability and culture, Simone Nolan, said a planning permit for the removal of native vegetation on the site was issued in December 2022 and undertaken last year. “Council has been working with the land owner on the use and development of his land over a period of time,” she said. “This will continue to be an on-going process to ensure compliance with any permits that may be required in relation to the use of the land. “Council officers have attended the site on numerous occasions, and will continue to do so in order to discuss

all proposals with the landowner to ensure compliance with the Wangaratta Planning Scheme and council’s expectations.” The permit outlines there will be no increase in traffic as a result of the accommodation being located on the site while there may be a small increase in traffic whilst the transportable is relocated there. This application is currently on public notice until January 19 and available to view via Rural City of Wangaratta Council’s website at: https://www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Development/Planning/Current-applications.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 7

Dangerous trees an ongoing concern

Meeting g at Moyhu y to discuss strategy gy to reduce risk of falling g trees or limbs By STEVE KELLY DANGEROUS trees will be on the agenda at a meeting between community members, Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy and council representatives on Monday, January 15 at Moyhu Lions Park at 3pm. There has been a push from some members in the King Valley community for dangerous tree limbs hanging across roads and public walkways to be assessed in the area and proponents of the group will ask council to discuss its current strategy and future plans to reduce risk of falling limbs or trees. Group coordinator Gary Marshall raised concerns late last year following several incidents in the King Valley where trees have fallen on vehicles, almost causing serious injury to occupants. He said recent severe weather events have further highlighted the volatility of the dangerous trees with many falling across roads during the storm events or in the days following.

“We understand there is a funding problem associated with assessing all the trees in the area and we’re just looking for council and Regional Roads Victoria to make a start,” he said. “Some of the trees are at right angles across the road and we want to work with council to resolve the issue. “We extend an invitation to the meeting to any Wangaratta ratepayers and the public at large, who wish to voice their concerns about the dangers posed to the community due to the lack of maintenance and planning surrounding this issue.” Mr Marshall said the group is expecting representatives from the SES, CFA and Victoria Police to be in attendance at the meeting. For more information call the group on 0400 969 818 or 0429 306 679. ROADBLOCK: This tree blocked a road in the Rural City of Wangaratta on January 2 after it fell during the major storm. PHOTO: Rennee Harmor, Facebook

Youth council to stand for peers’ interests A NEW Rural City of Wangaratta youth council advisory committee has been formed for 2024, with 15 students taking on or renewing member roles. The nominated committee members are a diverse group of students who have a similar goal of advocating for their peers and acknowledge that mental health and wellbeing has been and is still a big issue for young people in our community. The nominees want to use their position to bring some positivity with community engagement and events. In selecting the committee members, consultation occurred with educational institutions and youth service providers and applicants were required to submit an application and attend an interview. Consideration was given to candidate’s suitability, team fit, and ability to represent their peers as well as their lived experiences and circumstances. From Galen College seven young people have been named including Ayushma Ghimire, Kayla Jose, Toby Beggs, Adele Webber, Amitee Turnbull and Harrison Allen. Wangaratta High School students include Ruby Defazio, Swaye Frankland, Atticus Carta and Lanie Evans. Cathedral College representatives include Lucy Wilkinson and Edward Browne, while Lucas Ryder and Krysta Livermore are from Borinya College.

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Latest COVID strain a timely reminder THE recent outbreak of the JN.1 COVID-19 variant is just another reminder of the need to act responsibly during high-risk transmission periods. Recent advice issued by the Chief Health Officer has called for Victorians to reintegrate their use of face masks if experiencing COVID symptoms or visiting high-risk settings, in an effort to protect those to whom the virus poses a serious risk. It’s an indication that COVID and its strains are here to stay, and there’s a sense that we’ll have to manage our exposure to the virus much the same way as we do our yearly flu season. With the days of extended lockdowns and social restrictions imposed by the government now firmly a thing of the past, the onus has been placed squarely on individual Victorians to take the necessary steps to reduce their own risk. Isolating until negative, wearing a mask if symptomatic, and socialising outside are simple ways to reduce the risk of transmission. The fact that we haven’t been wrangled straight back into a lockdown scenario is a credit to a Victorian community which was vaccinated, did the hard yards, and with extended exposure to the virus established a relatively strong herd immunity to the virus. However, that doesn’t mean the virus will just disappear, and it’s important that when COVID is at its most transmissible, particularly new strains, we take the precautions to protect our loved ones from its threat, as we do when the flu flares up during winter time. It’s up to each Victorian to do their part to curb its impact.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

15 Rounded vase ACROSS 18 Devotional exercise 3 Goes reeling 19 Slope backward 9 Pick out 22 Registers 10 Den 23 Fragments 11 Passenger ships 24 Travelling-bag 12 Art of effective 25 Seated speaking 27 Vehicle 16 Longing 28 Given or appointed 17 Time of holding 20 Ten-dollar note (coll) 30 Time in grammar 21 Prescribed amounts 32 Mature person 35 Prosecute 23 Rescues 26 Withdraw from federation 29 Wine 31 Country 33 Beautified 34 Got up 36 Heavenly bodies 37 Nonsense 38 Adds sugar DOWN 1 Was in continued pain 2 Sour-tempered 3 Furniture items Solution No.14345 4 Parcel out A M S T A G G E R S 5 Made a profit L A I R A C H O O S E R T L I N E R S H 6 Spirit B H E L O C U T I O N T E N U R E D E S I R E 7 Lower world T E N N E R D O S E S 8 Waistbands H D S R V C S A V E S S E C E D E 13 Deadly C L A R E T C A N A D A L D E C O R A T E D R 14 Ember R I U A R I S E N S U N S D R I V E L P E T S W E E T E N S

FACEBOOK users this week commented on our weekly poll which asked users: ‘Which way do you face in the shower?’

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Kathy Semmens: Wangaratta’s number one major concern. Joy Jones: Are u kidding me !!!! Brieanah Moncrieff: There’s no option for those of us who are rotisserie chickens Courtney Berry: Brieanah Moncrieff agreed! Paul Crabb: I face away

from all the important issues around us ! Hopefully they will magically go away Shelly Harper: Can we have a poll about more interesting and useful questions please.

•

Facebook users have also commented on the pooling of water at the Rowan Street underpass on Monday after heavy downpours of rain.

•

Lucky Kaitatzis: Just curious, what happens to traffic when the underpass is

flooded and the overpass is closed? Sam Pitty: Lucky Kaitatzis that’s what you call bedlam Craig Startin: Lucky Kaitatzis we all go to sisely ave Tara Clancy: Natasha Seiter! We missed It today Richard Jeffreys: Will be closed soon Brett Direen: They’ve said it’s been fixed again? It’s never been fixed and I’ve been here for a long time. Bit like the Melbourne CBD

• • • • •

underpass floods every second month! The light to assist drivers see the water and overpass columns has been hanging down broken for at least two years I mean seriously I’ve reported it twice ?? Check the pic!! Neil John Maclean: Nothing’s changed in 30 years then . Drainage , pumps , maybe?. Get bigger ones !. The Romans could do better ! Paul Crabb: Hope it’s doesn’t rain while the overpass is closed !

• •

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Would you like to see Yarrawonga and surrounds incorporated in the Rural City of Wangaratta area?

WSAC fails customer service test WANGARATTA has a top class sports and aquatic centre with a variation of areas for fitness and rehabilitation. The centre runs at a loss which is picked up by the ratepayers. Improved management of the centre could reduce or end the deficit incurred each year with improved access to facilities. The warm water pool, which is for gentle exercise, rehabilitation and disabled hoist users, is closed on a regular basis due to lack of lifeguards on duty. During these times the 25m pool, learn to swim pool and toddlers are open inside with the 50m outdoor pool also open. Persons using the warm water pool are forced into the learners pool or have nothing. On Tuesday, January 2 the warm pool was closed due to a lack of lifeguards. Simple solution is to close the outdoor pool and have that lifeguard on the warm water pool. Laps can still be done with no restriction. When this was suggested I was informed that the centre had an agreement with the swimming club on the use of the 50m pool. I also have an agreement with the centre, it’s called membership and I am not happy to pay almost $1000 yearly not to use the facilities I need. On the morning concerned there were four staff behind the front counter who could have donned the jacket of the lifeguard as happens when they have breaks. The learners pool is not suitable for rehabilitation with its size and layout prohibitive, especially when a number of people need to use it. I have been using the WSAC for over 12 months and know of people who no longer use the centre due to closure of the pool. People from Myrtleford, Corowa, Yarrawonga and even from Wangaratta are either stopping using the centre or reduced their visits. Speak to the users of the warm water pool and find out why they use it and what they require. Customer service is not hard to get right. Eric Douthie, Wangaratta

TRAFFIC STOPPER: The impact of

Where have all the sparrows gone? SINCE 2021 to January this year I have not seen any sparrows around my house or in the trees and in the garden. Around the shops in town they have gone. I would always see them picking up the food crumbs off the footpaths and around the rubbish bins. Like some of our other birds they are disappearing over the years. I wonder if someone in the Wangaratta Bird Watching Club would know what has happened to the sparrows and why they have gone. John ‘Irish Jack’ McGauran, Wangaratta

the recent storms and heavy rainfall in Wangaratta and district are not always instantly felt. This plumb tree in Swan Street succumbed to the wet conditions late Monday afternoon, toppling onto the road and momentarily creating a traffic hazard - but was cleared within 15 minutes by a council work crew. Council crews have been busy for much of the week clearing toppled trees on local roads and around public assets, with Boorhaman area particularly hard hit. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

POLL RESULTS SHOWER TAPS Which way do you face in the shower?

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.

Towards the taps Away from taps

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THIS WEEK

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Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 9 NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the closure of the Green Street Bridge.

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Luke ‘stano’ Stanton: They would want to fix train crossing light situation 730am people will be banked back to the racecourse. Andrew Meloury: Luke ‘stano’ Stanton yep don’t know why the boom gates have to be down while the train is at the station. Nathan Mullane: I hope that they’re working with signal operations team at Regional

• •

Roads Vic, so that adjustments have been made to the traffic signal controllers at the main intersections around town. Greg Brown: Why shut the left lane before the lights? Tony Davidson: I reckon it be quicker to go past the tip, that’s my tip. Lauren da Silva: I really hope they put adequate signage around the surrounding streets to remind people of this. There is always a huge lack of road work signs prior to arriving to closed roads.

• • •

Facebook users also commented on the WSAC outdoor pools.

pools were? Mmm no I don’t think so! Julie RobertsP: Can’t please everyone. And there’s an outdoor splash park at the pool for the youngsters. Kayla Ashton: Shame we had to lose two other pools for this…. Cassandra Bennett: No where to have fun as all ropes even kids splash park never on. Hayley Mousey McDonald: Would be a lot more fun with out the lane ropes so it’s an actual pool for leisure. pool for leisure.

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Luke ‘stano’ Stanton: Renee Collet can’t even stand at the shallow end of the pool. Not ideal for young kids! Pretty sad. Julie Roberts: Luke ‘stano’ Stanton it’s built for competition swimming, there’s plenty of other areas for young kids to play both inside and out. Luke ‘stano’ Stanton: Julie Roberts for them to swim outside? Like the yarrunga and Olympics

• • •

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Tweet Art Martineau @rebelsart

X USERS this week tweeted about the recent weather in Wangaratta and nearby wineries.

wangarattaartgallery

IT’S BEEN QUITE A YEAR Our Gallery 2 program has been diverse and fascinating this year.

Dan the Man @DK230265 We have been flooded in and out 13 times in 2 years at our caravan park in Wangaratta, Victoria. It has been a very challenging 2 years .....hope that’s it for a while. Greg Brown@Browndog721 We only ended up with 45 ml total at Wangaratta Wild Colonial Girl Calls for a Treaty @girl_ colonial Yeah, it puts my region to shame, that’s for sure. Browns are on the King River, which is the little creek that runs thru Wangaratta. We have the mighty Murray, but their wines are better.

The first Mickaëlle Michel @MickaelleMichel entries for Australia. Thursday at Wangaratta. Good luck!

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

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

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 11

Exciting new year of exhibitions at the Wangaratta Art Gallery BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

A STELLAR line up of exhibitions and artists are part of a diverse program to be presented at the Wangaratta Art Gallery from January to mid-year in 2024. Along with the always popular Petite Miniature Textiles exhibition, there will be thought-provoking exhibitions by Maissa Alameddine and Emily McIntosh and a major solo exhibition by Anna Louise Richardson, while the gallery is currently hosting a joint exhibition featuring Robert Hirschmann and Andy Pye, which explores the aweinspiring beauty and dark mystery abounding in our bushland. Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt said the program was developed in response to the situational context of our region, audience and visitors, exploring contemporary and current ideas. She said it addresses themes of central importance to our community and place. “Sustainability, rural life, landscape, trauma and resilience are all explored through the work of both local and interstate artists, drawing attention to the collective experiences of those in regional communities across Australia,” she said. “The program is also designed to present diverse perspectives across different media, so that there’s something for everyone something that’s exciting, enthralling, challenging and joyful for all.” Don’t miss the vibrant paintings on canvas and board by Andy Pye, complemented by the powerful, gestural paintings and drawings of Robert Hirschmann, with Beauty & Fear on display now until February 25. In March and April, the gallery will present ‘In Grief’ which brings together

COLOUR AND CONTRAST: Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt, pictured in the Beauty & Fear exhibition, said the program is designed to present diverse perspectives across different media. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling the work of artists Maissa Alameddine and Emily Mcintosh, who examine the multifaceted layers of trauma, displacement, loss and the complexities of grief through performance, glass and installation. Petite Miniature Textiles 2024 arrives on April 27, showcasing innovative, small textile artworks which have been selected specifically for the exhibition, created by artists from around the country. Ms Arndt said the everpopular exhibition strengthens our region’s textile story and our collecting focus and it has been brought together this year by guest curator, Susie Losch. The Good, which will be presented in Gallery 1 from June 29 to August 11, is a

national touring exhibition featuring large scale drawings by Western Australian artist Anna Louise Richardson, which examines the joy and drama of everyday, rural life. It was curated by Ms Arndt with Wagga Wagga Art Gallery director Dr LeeAnne Hall, and has attracted significant Australian government support through Creative Australia and touring agency, Museums & Galleries of NSW. “It’s sure to be a hit with audiences, not only for the beauty of Anna’s technique, but also the emphasis on optimism and finding the joy in small things, after years of hardship,” Ms Arndt said. Gallery 2 will play host to the Weaving Eucalyptus Pro-

ject by Liz Williamson from February 24 through until April 14, a collaborative project which explores local colour, cultural connections and shared weaving traditions, expressed with fabric dyed with locally collected eucalyptus leaves. Shadow Murmurs by Julie Monro-Allison runs from April 20 until June 9 and looks at the translation of an idea between one medium to another, through woven textile sculptures and graphite drawings. Those visiting the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre will be able to see the Woolshed Road series of landscape works by Nina Machielse Hunt which are on display now until the end of February, before Hints of the

COMING UP: One of the highlights of the program this year will be The Good by Anna Louise Richardson, featuring works such as Good egg, 2023, charcoal on cement fibreboard, 50x37x3cm. PHOTO: Bo Wong Valley by Joan Mullarvey arrives in March; a series of collagraphy works which also take inspiration from the local environment. From the end of May until August, Helen Heywood will

display her detailed paintings of native flora in the foyer gallery, as part of an exhibition called Bloom. To find out what on offer at the gallery visit wangarattartgallery.com.au.

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Baseball bat self-defence plea shot down in court A GLENROWAN man who assaulted a motorist before causing upwards of $13,000 in damages to a nearby business with a baseball bat has been put on blast for his “atrocious” behaviour by a local magistrate. The 33-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Thursday, pleading guilty to charges of assault and criminal damage following an incident in Glen-

rowan’s main thoroughfare a year ago. The court heard the accused had confronted a local publican with a baseball bat on Gladstone Street around 10am, after the latter allegedly asked the accused to move his car, which he perceived to have been blocking traffic. The man was said to have overpowered the accused in an altercation on the street, forcing him to the ground

SPLASH PARK: Chayce Castles and Josanna McDermott enjoyed the WSAC splash park.

by the throat as pedestrians watched on. A video of the altercation was shown to the court, depicting the accused allegedly hitting the man in the leg with the bat after he had been allowed to regain his footing, while an onlooker could be heard screaming “there are kids around”. Two children were said to have been seated in the rear of the accused’s car.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon said the accused had then proceeded to smash the glass doors and windows of a nearby licensed premises, in what was said to have been a retaliatory attack after noticing the man’s shirt. Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said the CCTV footage of the incident had failed to capture the lead-up to the altercation, and ini-

SAUSAGE SIZZLE: Ricky Robb and Johnny Robb enjoyed the free sausage sizzle.

tially argued his client had acted in self-defence. He said his client had already paid off $5000 of a $12,505 restitution bill in the wake of the damage, and took full responsibility for the criminal damage. Magistrate Ian Watkins said the accused’s actions had been “atrocious”. “I think you’ve got a snowflake’s chance in hell of getting up on self-defence from

what I’ve seen,” he told the accused ahead of the eventual guilty plea. He ordered the accused be assessed for a corrections order, which he said would have to be arduous. Mr Watkins noted the accused “wouldn’t be sitting around singing ‘Kumbaya’” during the order. The matter will return for sentence at the end of the month.

FAMILY FUN: Adelle Doxey and William Doxey were thankful for the free summer fun day.

Wangaratta Baptist Church’s free summer fun day By CHLOE JAENICKE THE Wangaratta Baptist Church held a free summer fun day at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC). The fun day took place at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre from 10am to 2pm. Families enjoyed the free entry to the WSAC pools, an inflatable obstacle course and a free sausage sizzle, where over 700 sausages were given away.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: Ally Wallace, Matilda Ginnivan, Bridie Kay, Charlotte Hunt spent the day cooling off at the Wangaratta Baptist Church’s fun day. PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

OBSTACLE COURSE: Scarlett Dalton completed the inflatable obstacle course.

HELPING OUT: Aaron Wardle, Reg Dobson, William Lee, Joshua Wardle, Georgia Hamidorm, Faye Gronow, Colleen Jackel and Bruce Neilsen helped make the family fun day a success.

SUMMER FUN: Ayla Ali-Milne and Riza Ali-Milne had fun on the inflatable obstacle course.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 13

Haines to offer insight at housing summit MP’s push for regional housing continues in national arena BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

INDI Independent federal MP Helen Haines will be a guest speaker at the National Regional Housing Summit in Canberra when it’s held next month. Dr Haines has worked with cohost Regional Australia Institute to help bring the summit to fruition and she will be one of seven guest speakers at the event. Real Estate Institute of Australia and Master Builders Australia are also hosting the summit. It will look at what some regional leaders are crafting to tackle housing challenges in their region. Unique place-based solutions through policy and investment will be addressed, along with various regional housing market clusters identified through RAI’s research. The event on February 9 will convene local governments and communities, federal and state governments, industry and peak body

ADVOCATING: Indi federal Independent MP Helen Haines (left) at a National Press Club address last May talked about her plea for a $2 billion Regional Housing Infrastructure Fund. Pictured also are Real Estate Institute of Australia chief executive officer Kasy Chambers, and Anglicare executive director Anna Neelagama. representatives, and the not-forprofit sector to identify solutions and ensure the region’s housing needs are understood and reflected in new and emerging housing policy and investment. In 2023, Dr Haines introduced her ‘Unlocking Regional Housing Bill’ which specifically sought to

address the housing crisis in regional, rural and remote Australia, by making funding easier to access and requiring at least 30 per cent of funding to go to regional, rural and remote Australia. However, her amendments were rejected in parliament despite one in three people living

outside large cities in Australia. Dr Haines explained at the time that without legislation that ensures regional Australia is explicitly considered with funding, there is no guarantee that the billions of dollars announced for housing will flow to regional Australia, and the communities where it is needed most.

More council meetings to take earlier timeslot THE Rural City of Wangaratta will not hold a council meeting in January with its first to be held on February 27 at Wangaratta. A schedule for council’s meetings in 2024 includes five to be held at the earlier 3pm timeslot and seven at 6pm. Councillors and council officers will again travel to four rural towns in the municipality, this year including Whitfield, Eldorado, Oxley and Boorhaman, with the remaining to be held in Wangaratta. The 2024 council meeting dates, times and places include:  February 27 at 6pm in Wangaratta  March 26 at 6pm in Whitfield  April 30 at 6pm in Eldorado  May 28 at 3pm in Wangaratta  June 25 at 3pm in Wangaratta  July 30 at 3pm in Wangaratta  August 27 at 6pm in Oxley  September 24 at 6pm in Boorhaman  October 29 at 6pm in Wangaratta  November 26 at 6pm in Wangaratta  December 10 at 3pm in Wangaratta

BEVERIDGE TO ALBURY TRANCHE 1 WORKS Construction activities January-February 2024 We are building Inland Rail in Victoria.

Planned works include:

Works are progressing to provide sufficient clearance for doublestacked freight trains along the existing North East rail line. In early 2024 we’ll complete construction on the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge in Glenrowan. We’ll also start constructing new bridges at Seymour-Avenel Road and Green Street in Wangaratta. At Wangaratta Station, we’ll start constructing a new platform and install the new west rail track. To view all works notifications, visit inlandrail.info/works Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, generating opportunities for our regions and our economy, now and into the future.

Get in touch or book an appointment by:

WANGARATTA

GLENROWAN

BARNAWARTHA NORTH

• Services relocation and drainage • New platform and rail track construction • Pedestrian ramp, stairwell and lift shaft installation • Green Street bridge deck demolition, foundation and abutment works

• Bridge deck and abutment works • Asphalting of road connections • Installing barriers and fencing • Drainage

• Fencing and site clean-up

SEYMOUR • Construction of temporary road off Granville Drive • Seymour-Avenel Road bridge demolition

CORRIDOR-WIDE • Overhead powerline and signalling works • Strengthening rail bridges ahead of shifting the tracks horizontally

Thank you for your patience and cooperation while we carry out these works. If you are interested in work on the Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 project sites, visit mcconnelldowell.com/people/career-opportunities Scan the QR code to sign up for project newsletters, updates and information.

1800 732 761

victoriaprojects@artc.com.au

inlandrail.com.au/b2a

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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Acting opportunity too good to miss AS a longtime fan of award winning writer Margaret Hickey, Kirsty Woods was one of the first in line to audition for the local author’s first fulllength stage play, ‘Clarissa and Pip’. “I was given the opportunity to read the play (while a member of the Wangaratta Players committee) and fell in love with the story, the witty dialogue and the challenges faced by each of the characters,” Kirsty said. “When the chance to audition and be directly involved with the production of the play came up I knew I absolutely wanted to be a part of it, even if in some small way, so I couldn’t resist auditioning. “I am very familiar with Marg’s work and a huge fan of her novels, short stories and plays. “I have read quite a lot of her work and it has always been engaging and enjoyable to read with very relatable characters.”

BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

Kirsty was last seen on stage in the 2022 Wangaratta Players’ production of ‘The Rise and Fall of Little Voice’ as Mari Hof, the desperate, drunken, at times abusive mother of Little Voice, and a far cry from Pip in the upcoming production. “I would describe Pip as a very kind and gentle soul with a caring and loyal nature,” she said. “She has had a privileged upbringing that allows her to be generous, though with her tendency toward the Bohemian lifestyle means she doesn’t necessarily fit the stereotypical view of someone who grew up in a family of wealthy landholders. “Marg’s characters are always so relatable that it is easy to find elements that feel like they could be me.

“That I think is the beauty of Marg’s writing, the characters could really be someone we know or ourselves. “There are definitely stark differences between myself and Pip, especially regarding life choices and the experiences we have had, but I hope that through the work of rehearsal I’m able to portray her character as genuinely as possible and be true to the character that Marg had in mind.” Kirsty said the play is about the friendship of two women from their youth to adulthood that is enduring despite them often being so different in personality, and each facing complex challenges. “The story unpacks various aspects of their lives using witty, funny dialogue and situations making it very entertaining,” she said. “All the best theatre has the ingredients of humour, poignancy, interesting and relatable characters, and maybe some twists, and Marg’s play defi-

nitely has each of those. “I think the audience will experience a range of emotions and a story that will make them think or reflect, and ultimately will be entertaining and engaging to watch.” Brenda Spilva takes on the co-lead role of adult Clarissa, with Laura Gundrill as 20s Clarissa, Brianna Robison as teen Clarissa, Aleeta Carmody as 20s Pip and Hannah Walton as teen Pip, with Drew Wighton as Tom, Rick Harnwell as Roger, Jeremy Kaup as Blake, Owen Guy as Will, Neil Foster as the doctor, Shane Douthie as the Scottish guy and Jeff Faithful as Michael. Clarissa and Pip, directed by Jo Pane, will be performed over two weekends at the Stage Door in Evans St with opening night on Thursday, March 14. For more information about this production and the Wangaratta Players check the company’s Facebook page.

Kirsty Woods jumped at the chance to audition for the world premiere of ‘Clarissa and Pip’ p

DREAM ROLE: Kirsty Woods takes on the role of Pip in Wangaratta Players’ upcoming world premiere of Clarissa and Pip, by Margaret Hickey. PHOTO: Shane Douthie

Getting creative at the Wangaratta Art Gallery By CHLOE JAENICKE  ART WORKSHOP: Mia Bartram and Coah Canning had fun at the art workshop.

 DRAWING CLUB: Annika Carson and Harriet Jenkins flexed their creative muscles at the NGV art workshop.  CREATIVE FUN: Cash Canning, Aidan Simsin and Leonie Arnold participated in the NGV Kids on Tour Workshop on Wednesday, January 10. PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

 HOLIDAY FUN: Kirby McMahon and Clancy Jenkins enjoyed expressing their creativity at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

 GETTING CREATIVE: Arlo, Eva and Remy O’Callaghan enjoyed drawing sea creatures.

 UNDER THE SEA: Ava Mitchell and Grace Loveday drew their favourite sea creatures as part of the Underwater Drawing Club activity.

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CHILDREN had the chance to express their creativity with the NGV Kids on Tour Workshops at the Wangaratta Art Gallery this week. Eight contemporary artists and collectives created activities specifically for the program including the Underwater Drawing Club where children had the opportunity to create drawings of their favourite sea creatures.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 15

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

Slime time kicks off activities at the Wangaratta Library By CHLOE JAENICKE CHILDREN had fun with slime as part of the school holiday program activities at the Wangaratta Library on Tuesday, January 9. Participants explored how to make slime in all different colours with glitter. The library’s school holiday program continues today with a games afternoon from 2.30pm to 3.30pm; bring a friend or meet one by playing a range of games including Scrabble, Guess Who and checkers. The theme of activities on Monday, January 15 will be science, with simple experiments to enjoy and enlighten between 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Thursday, January 18 will be all about rock painting from 10.30am to 11.30am. Celebrate the library’s new rock garden by painting a rock and adding it to the garden, or take it home with you. Monday, January 22 will be a chance for youngsters to explore or discover a love of Minecraft between 2pm and 3.30pm. Places are limited, so bookings are essential, and if there is enough interest, the library may look to start a Minecraft club. On Thursday, January 25 from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, watch a movie and enjoy some popcorn at the library. Bookings are essential for all library school holiday events, and can be made by phoning 5721 2366 or emailing library@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au

DECORATING SLIME: Gema Winn added glitter to her slime.

SLIME TIME: Ayla Ali-Milne created slime with her brother Riza Ali-Milne.

COLOURFUL SLIME: Bridie Willett and Isly Willett made slime together.

HOLIDAY FUN: Gabby Cox and Declan Cox spent their school holidays creating slime.

New variant prompts COVID prevention calls THE spread of new COVID 19 variant JN.1 has renewed calls from the State Government for community members to take steps to reduce the danger for at-risk demographics. Victorian chief health officer Clare Looker has issued a health alert formally urging Victorians to wear a face mask if experiencing COVID symptoms or visiting high-risk settings, following a spike in JN.1-related hospitalisations in recent weeks. According to Ms Looker, the current seven-day average hospitalisation figure of 377 had increased in recent weeks in the wake of high levels of COVID-19 hospitalisations in November, howev-

PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

er, was yet to reach the peak (488) experienced during last year’s May and June wave. She said the variant had been causing similar impacts internationally, and had quickly become the most prevalent single sub-variant identified in wastewater samples across the state. “If you have symptoms, you should not visit people at risk of severe illness or sensitive settings such as hospitals and aged care facilities,” Ms Looker said in a statement. “Sectors providing housing, care, or other services to people at increased risk of severe disease (senior Victorians, those with medical comorbities or disability) should consider activating

policies to reduce transmission during this wave. “This is particularly relevant to health services (including primary care), aged care, disability care and Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations. “These actions may include the use of N-95 masks in clinical care settings and use of recommended surveillance testing for patients, staff and/or visitors.” Those with increased risk of severe disease are also urged to seek a COVID-19 booster vaccination, let fresh air in and meet outside where possible, take a rapid antigen test (RAT) and if positive, take antiviral medication if eligible.

FUN TOGETHER: Alice and Ollie Kittelty joined in the slime workshop at the library.

CREATIVE FUN: Lily Britton had fun decorating her slime.

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

GETTING CREATIVE KIDS including Arlo, Eva and Remy O’Callaghan (pictured) were among the many to enjoy the popular National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Kids on Tour 2024 program which is running at the Wangaratta Art Gallery this week. The free workshops offer a range of art-making activities and games which were designed by contemporary artists and collectives who worked to develop them with the NGV. Limited places remain for the session being held today from 10am to 12pm, facilitated by art educator Inga Hanover, with more information available by contacting the gallery or visiting wangarattaartgallery.com. au/Programs/NGV-KIDS-on-TourWorkshops. PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

Live music at the Plough Inn ENJOY live music in the beer garden when Bob Turk plays at the Plough Inn in Tarrawingee tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Bob will play easy and rocking tunes from the sixties, seventies and eighties which everyone is sure to know and enjoy.

Wangaratta Farmers Market this weekend SHOP for fresh fruits and vegetables in season at the next Wangaratta Farmers Market,

being held tomorrow morning in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. There will be wide range of stalls showcasing locally grown produce and goods including baked items, meats, cheeses, preserves and much more, from 8am until 12pm.

Ricki Wood live at The Vine SINGER and guitarist Ricki Wood will be playing live and The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Sunday from 2.30pm to 5.30pm. Ricki writes a lot of original music in a folky, country, blues/rock style, with a focus on his amazing life journey and all its twists and turns.

Contact the hotel for lunch and dinner bookings, with pizza available in the afternoon.

Beauty & Fear at Wangaratta Art Gallery AN exhibition called Beauty & Fear bringing together recent work by artists Robert Hirschmann and Andy Pye - who share a profound connection with North East Victoria and its landscape - is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Together, the artists demonstrate their deep affinity for the natural world - the mountains, boulders, waterfalls, and birdlife captured

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in Andy Pye’s vibrant paintings on canvas and board, or the night sky lit and framed by an iridescent moon in Robert Hirschmann’s gestural paintings and drawings. The exhibition is on display until February 25.

(no bookings required) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

Wangaratta community market

THE annual Lake Moodemere Regatta will be held this Saturday and Sunday on Lake Moodemere in Rutherglen. Every year three local rowing clubs combine together to host the Murray Rowing Association Regatta including Corowa Rowing Club, Rutherglen Lake and Wahgunyah Rowing clubs. Races will take place every three minutes from 8am until 5.15pm on Saturday and from 7am to 4pm on Sunday.

THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm. There is a wide range of stalls to browse and refreshments are available. Stalls are available for $25 each

Lake Moodemere Regatta this weekend

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 17

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

Red Eye Cicada - the sound of summer

By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS

THIS week’s article is about the Red Eye Cicada, one of the sounds of summer days in Australia. Cicadas are the loudest insects in the world and there are more than 200 species in Australia. It is thought that the sound produced by some communal species can act as a defence against predatory birds and some are even loud enough (120 decibels) to be painful to the human ear. Cicadas also often sing in chorus, which makes it more difficult for a predator to locate an individual.

Only male cicadas sing trying to attract a mate. The Red Eye lives in urban areas, forests and woodlands where they mostly feed on eucalypt trees and occasionally on other trees. They are found throughout parts of southern Queensland to Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania and provide food for large birds like friarbirds

Red Eye Cicadas are easily identified with a black body up to 6cm long, clear wings with dark veins and red eyes. Like most cicadas they spend most of their life underground, up to 7 years, as nymphs. This explains why adult cicadas are much more abundant during some seasons than others, with peaks occurring every few years. For example, this summer RedEye Cicada appears to be scarce in Wangaratta and along the rivers but plentiful in the Warby Ranges and the foothills. In contrast to that of the

nymph, the life of adult Red Eye Cicadas is very short, lasting only a few weeks. After mating, the adult female cicada lays its eggs by piercing plant stems with its ovipositor (egg-laying spike at the tip of the abdomen) and inserting the eggs into the slits it has made. The eggs hatch into small wingless cicadas which are known as nymphs. They fall to the ground and burrow below the surface. Here they live on the sap from plant roots for a period which may last several years.

They shed their skin at intervals as they grow. When the nymph reaches full size it digs its way to the surface with its front legs, which are specially adapted for digging. The nymph generally surfaces about nightfall in late spring or early summer, which then climbs on to a tree trunk or other object and sheds its skin for the last time. The fully-winged adult cicada emerges and leaves its old empty nymphal skin behind. Adult cicadas feed only on plant sap using their piercing, sucking mouthparts.

NOISY NEIGHBOURS: The sound produced by cicadas can be loud enough (120 decibels) to be harmful to the human ear. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds, Bush and Beyond)

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Your best protection against mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry is to avoid mozzie bites. Mozzies can bite through tight clothing. Cover up - wear long, loose-fitting clothing. Use mosquito repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin. Limit outdoor activity if lots of mosquitoes are about. Remove stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around your home or campsite. On holidays make sure your accommodation is fitted with mosquito netting or screens. Use ’knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent where you gather to sit or eat outdoors. Don’t forget the kids. On babies, you might need to spray or rub repellent on their clothes instead of their skin. Avoid applying repellent to the hands of babies or young children.

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Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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2023 WANGARATTA YOUNG WRITERS AWARD

Midnight Fading KYAHN Van Der Poel took second place in the 2023 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year 10/11/12 story category with this piece. The competition was again jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta, in conjunction with the Wangaratta Library. “So, what do you want to do when you leave school?” Lacy’s pout-like cherry lips reach into a pseudo-smile. I swallow my mouthful of food, responding passionately: “Well, I love music. My dream is to—” Lacy’s smile melts with every word I say until she interrupts: “I didn’t think you were still seriously considering that. I mean, you’re like the best basketballer in the state; you can’t just give that up.” “I-” “You don’t need to like it, you are good at it.” I run my tongue along my bottom teeth, refraining from mentioning anything else. My eyes drift as if pulled by a magnetic force to focus on one person. His dark hair shifts like shadows on a winter’s night. His eyes hold the waves of a thousand oceans, singing a song of sweet melancholy. “Vi? Vi!” Lacy’s highpitched squeak snaps me out of my love-struck daze. “Seriously, you’re daydreaming over Will again?! How many times have I told you to just forget about him? He’s so...” I drown my friend’s voice out with the colour of his eyes. I could happily drown in them all day if he’d let me. “Vienna. He will never be into you.” With six simple words, my heart is once again crushed, squeezed like a fruit until it is void of colour. The smell of rain assaults my senses as I exit the school doors - a sweet relief to the otherwise dreary afternoon. The sound of rain on the pavement is drowned out by an odd buzzing sound. It climbs up

my body - each vertebrae of my spine, making me shiver. I try to shake the feeling off, but as I turn a corner, my world spins. Black dots swarm my vision, and the buzzing turns into ringing. An earthshattering voice booms like thunder in my mind and I collapse onto the wall, paralysed. “You have abandoned your passions, desires and dreams, midnight tomorrow will end in screams. Confess your true feelings, do not be delayed, lest your whole life be gone and henceforth fade.” My senses return, forcing me to remember how to breathe. Warm hands squeeze my own, gently shaking me from my dazed state. A desperate plea yanks my eyes open, brows raising to the heavens. William. I tumble over my feet as soon as the name registers in my brain. William. Here. Halfway towards the ground, and undying embarrassment, firm hands hold me upright. Unable to not stare, I lose myself in his ocean eyes and suave figure. The rain has soaked both of our hair and clothes by now, but even now, he looks more romantic than ever. “Vi? Are you alright?” The sound of his voice causes me to stumble backward; I remember the threatening words of the voice. Midnight tomorrow. I glance at my hands, they have a sort of omniscient glow. Fade. Midnight tomorrow. William hums out a comforting phrase, arms pulling me into a tight hug. All other thoughts slip away - I could stay here forever. “Let’s get you home, Vi.” I look up at him with a quizzical expression, brain as foggy as the streets. “Why?” The corner of his mouth turns up, and my heart ignites with the fire of a thousand suns. “Because it’s getting

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dark, it’s raining, and you basically just gave me a heart attack.” Slinging his jacket around my shoulders, he walks me home. With each word we converse, hope and joy lights a flame in my heart. Maybe there is a chance. The voice said to “confess your true feelings”. I sneak a glance at Will, who looks all the more majestic once the rain stops. We continue to talk for the length of the trip home. Somehow, the conversation turns to music. “So you play the piano?” I ask, nervously rubbing my hands together. The dimple on his cheek appears. “Yeah. Do you play anything?” I might as well not be breathing, as I force a small, “Yes, piano too.” Will’s eyebrows raise, and his smile melts my insides. “Really?! You’ll have to show me one time.” A giggle escapes my lips, and I commit this moment to memory. The leaves of the jacaranda trees shine in the wake of rain. “This is my place up here. Thank you so much.” I reluctantly shrug off his unnaturally warm jacket, handing it back with a grateful smile. As I’m turning around, Will grabs my hand, sending a trail of sparks through my nerves. Words escape me, as his eyes meet mine - he swallows almost nervously. “Uh, I - would you... I mean, I’ve got a party at my house tomorrow night. Would you like to come?” Happiness bursts from every pore in my body, my skin radiates with it. An ecstatic beam crosses my face, and I practically sing a reply, “Of course.” It’ll be the perfect time to confess my feelings. “So, I’ll see you tomorrow?” I step up one of the steps, legs wobbling like spaghetti… my smile isn’t much better. “Tomorrow.” Joy explodes like

PURSUING PASSIONS: Kyahn Van Der Poel took second place in her category of the 2023 Wangaratta Young Writers Award. fireworks within me, bursting into arrays of colour, brightening my starry night. Tomorrow. The dooming toll of the bell rings on repeat through my head. I swallow, taking one deep breath before stepping into the cursed cafeteria. Lacy waves at me from our usual table, but my eyes immediately move to Will - only a few tables away, laughing with his friends. His ocean-

blue eyes meet mine, and the corner of his lips tug upwards into a half-smile. The voice rings in my head, ever present as yesterday. Midnight. I steady myself, pushing down the butterflies in my stomach, and walk on shaky feet towards Will’s table. His smile grows larger and larger the closer I get, and before I know it, I’m sitting down at his table. I don’t need to look

up to know how Lacy’s face is positioned - utter horror and betrayal. Will introduces me to his friends; their faces shine with an unknown secret. “We wouldn’t have expected you ‘round here. Aren’t you like...one of those people?” I glance quickly up at Will, gritting my teeth at the words. “Well, maybe I’ve changed.” ■ Continued page 19

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 19

2023 WANGARATTA YOUNG WRITERS AWARD ■ From page 18

Soon enough, we move past the hierarchical politics of high school, and start talking about the party. One of Will’s friends makes a joke, collapsing to the chair in laughter; it’s one of those laughs that is funnier than the actual joke. On instinct, I check the time - rookie mistake. The laughter is muffled by the dooming tick of a clock. It gets louder and louder, hauntingly clicking for every second passed. My breathing grows heavier, and I glance around the room, looking for the source. The bell rings again - 12 o’clock. Staggering up with shaky hands, I wait for the imminent toll of the clock. The sound rings in my ears, along with a wave of dizziness that once again causes me to crumble. William’s arms shoot out, carefully lowering me down to sit again. I hold my head in my hands, praying for the ringing to stop. Eventually, it does, leaving the silence of the deserted cafeteria. I take a shaky breath and pull my hands away from my face, eyes aligning with Will’s. “Are you alright? That’s the second time...” I nod once with a small smile. “I’ll be fine.” “You really don’t need to come to the party—” I roll my eyes, sitting up straight. “I’ll be there. Thank you, though.” He extends a hand, and my heart leaps into my throat as I take it carefully. With astounding gentleness, he pulls us up, walking me to my locker as my heart explodes into a million pieces. Maybe... Tonight. Four hours. Butterflies line every inch of my stomach, dancing like they’re in a concert. Swallowing heavily, I press the doorbell - almost immediately, the door swings open. William gazes at me, as if in a trance, leaning on the door frame. He breathes, “You made it.” Time flies by, and before I know it, the clock hits 11.50. Ten minutes. Will takes my hand and leads me to a separate room, walls decorated in magnificent

twirling colours. In the centre sits an ornate piano, adorned with silver embellishments. Will grins at my state of awe, nudging me towards it ever-so-gently. “Go on.” I roll my eyes, remaining unmoving on the tiled floor. “I really— “ “You promised, Vi.” His crystal eyes glimmer with mirth as he gazes down at me. I glance at the time on the wall. Maybe this is it. My time to confess. Taking a deep breath in, I step towards the instrument, mentally preparing myself for embarrassment. The everpresent butterflies swirl in a frenzied storm, as I sit down, and shakily lift my hands to the keys. Thoughts run through my head at a million miles per hour. A weak, powerless feeling creeps through my veins, but I push through with quaking fingers. The note reverberates throughout the large room, and I sneak a look at William, who winks. The weight of the keys comforts me, dragging me into an ethereal state of being. I allow the notes to take me away as they create a melody. A painful, heart shattering melody. I channel a range of emotions; from love, to betrayal, to melancholy, and rage. Then, a single word rips me from my enchanted escape. “Vienna.” The source haunts me like a nightmare from my past. Lacy. What is she doing here? My hands practically leap off of the piano, and I gulp once. Of course. Of course she would show up now. Only a few minutes before midnight. “Vi. What are you doing here?” I grind my teeth together, refraining myself from fleeing the room. “What are you doing here?” Lacy eyes me up and down pointedly, crossing her arms into an ‘I know better’ stance. “Saving you from this monstrosity of a party.” My heart pounds in my ears as I glance down at my hands; they fade by the second, turning my skin grey. “You’re too good for

these douche-bags. And what’s with the piano, I told you - “ So, I summon my depleted stores of courage. “I told you, Lacy. I told you that I loved music - and I do. I told you my dreams and desires, and all you did was squash them down one by one for years. Every single time. But I kept fighting, I rose and tried again, and again, and again. I kept giving you chances. Chances to change. But all you did was suck the life out of me. I’m sorry for leaving, but I can’t stand there and wait for you to realise that you need to change.” Her jaw drops as the words flow out. “You’re just a people-pleaser. Everything you do—” “But I want to change. We could change together.” Her hand flies towards my face before I can even flinch, but something intercepts. Will. “Don’t touch her.” My chest heaves, and I glance to the darklycoloured clock as the world spins. One minute. Less. Lacy’s eyes burn with the anger of a thousand fires; she swallows haughtily. “You can’t seriously...” Will’s ocean eyes douse the fires of Lacy’s army. “I love music. And I love Will. And nothing you can say will change that.” My legs buckle under the weight of the dizziness. Will manages to hold me upright, tucked into his side. My eyes connect with his, and the world blossoms into a festival of gold. Mere seconds before the clock strikes midnight, his lips meet mine in a gentle dance. Lacy storms away, but I don’t see it. I don’t see anything other than Will. Strength returns in full force as the clock marks the conclusion of the day. Midnight. My heart pounds all around as we break off the kiss. He breathes a chuckle, words flowing over me like waves of daylight. “You hold the tune to my heart, and the melody to my soul.” I giggle, lost once again in his eyes. “Did you practise that?” “Did it work?” “Yes.”

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Elizabeth Willing is pictured with her work Tastes of Sunshine, 2016, courtesy Museum of Brisbane. Elizabeth will visit the region later this month. PHOTO: David J Kelly

Brisbane artist Elizabeth Willing heading for Wangaratta BRISBANE-based artist Elizabeth Willing will visit the Wangaratta Art Gallery later this month, undertaking a three-week residency to research and develop new work. The artist will be staying in Beechworth during her visit, with the residency providing the opportunity for her to prepare for a solo exhibition to be held at the gallery in 2025. Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt described Ms Willing’s works as performative and often participatory explorations of food as an art material. Primarily working in sculpture, installation and

performance, her work additionally takes the form of concept dinners, collaborative performances that use the dining table as a stage for interactive designs and experiences. “Along with developing a solo exhibition in 2025, Liz will also host a potato printing workshop for us while in residency,” Ms Arndt said. “We invite everyone to come along and meet her while she’s here and learn more about her intriguing arts practice.” The Wangaratta Art Gallery will host an afternoon tea with Elizabeth Willing on Thursday, February 1 at 2.30pm.

Following the afternoon tea, there will be a presentation of the 2023 Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends Inc Student Art Award to recipient, Wangaratta High School student Layla Ramsay, who will talk about her final year project. The potato printing workshop will be held on Saturday, February 3 from 2pm to 3.30pm, where Ms Willing will share how the humble potato can be used to create extraordinary and beautiful results, creating a unique artwork printed on fabric. To RSVP for the afternoon tea or the workshop, visit wangarattartgallery. com.au.

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Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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Beat the extreme heat this summer

READY TO GO: Barbara and Bernard Young, Bill Gerritson, Mick Maher, Geoff Dinning and Ken Hickmott of Premium Fishing Tackle Co are excited at the bigger Ovens River Classic fishing event.

Angling for a bigger event Friday, January 10, 2014

is eligible to go in the draw to win the fantastic major prize. THE annual Ovens River Classic “Those who are fortunate enough to will take on a new format this year, catch the longest fish in the Murray cod, extending the competition out to 17 golden perch and carp categories will days. receive prizes from the event sponsors Competitors will stake out their R&V Aquiline and Premium Fishing favorite fishing spots along the Ovens Tackle Co Wangaratta,” she said. River from the Pioneer Bridges in As in other years this is a catch, Everton to Lake Mulwala (excluding photograph and release event the Murray River), from 8pm today to except for the carp which are wanted 10.30am on January 26. out of the rivers. The Rotary Club of Appin Park has Rotary Club of Appin Park joined forces with the Wangaratta and member Bernard Young said the District Sportsfishing Club to make influx of technology had made the this event available. competition easier. Rotary Club of Appin Park president “Now that most people have a Margaret Bennett said “the beauty” smart phone, many people find it of the event was anyone who enters easy to photograph their fish on

10 years ago

the fish measure with their fishing competitor ID clearly visible,” he said. “They then send this by text message anytime for verification during the event. “Others can show their catch to one of the marshals at the recording stations along the river on January 25 or 26.” Mr Young said prizes will be awarded at the TravelScene Wangaratta Camping 4X4 and Outdoor Leisure Show at Apex Park on January 26 from 1:30pm. “An added bonus for the fishing competition entrants is that with more time to fish they will have more time to take advantage of their free entry into this popular show,” he said.

WANGARATTA and district residents are being urged to follow simple steps to stay safe this summer and to never leave children in cars – as new statewide data reveals paramedics were called to 322 reports of people locked in cars in the past three months. Minister for Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas said the temperature in a parked car can more than double within minutes and is often 20 to 30 degrees hotter than outside – a deadly combination for children, whose body temperature rises much faster than adults. She said leaving the windows of a parked car down has little effect on reducing the temperature – tests showing that when windows are left open 10 centimetres, the temperature will only reduce by five degrees. Minister Thomas said a proven tactic to help parents and carers lower the risk of accidentally leaving a child in a hot car is to make small changes to their daily routines such as ensuring they auto-

matically check the back seat before locking up. Changes could include opening the back door of the car each time after parking (even if there is no child in the back seat) or placing a child’s bag or toy in the front seat as a reminder. With summer heating up, and the risk of heat exhaustion increasing, people are being reminded to:  Drink plenty of water, stay cool by seeking out air-conditioned buildings;  Plan ahead and schedule activities to the coolest part of the day; and  If heading outdoors, seek shade when possible, wear a hat and sunscreen and avoid exercising in the heat If you or someone you know is showing signs of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, or other health emergencies, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. For more tips on surviving heat and the Never Leave Kids in Cars campaign, visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au.

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P (03) 5721 5500 W WEBBLEGAL.COM.AU E info@webblegal.com.au

JANUARY 12 - 18 | 2024

Paradise in Hamilton Park: Your dream home awaits! NESTLED at the foothills of the picturesque Warby Range lies a serene retreat that effortlessly combines nature’s beauty with modern living. Welcome to your dream residence in Hamilton Park, where luxury meets tranquillity, and every detail has been meticulously crafted to provide the perfect lifestyle. Situated on an impressive 3563m2 allotment, this immaculate brick veneer home boasts four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a spacious living room flooded with natural light. Step into the bonus sunroom adorned with large windows, offering not only beau-

tiful garden views, but also a captivating glimpse of the Alpine region scenery. Imagine starting your day with a cup of coffee, surrounded by the beauty of nature, right from the comfort of your own home. This delightful home ensures year-round comfort with two wood fires and three split systems, allowing you to be comfortable no matter the season. Escape into your own outdoor oasis with a rejuvenating swim spa, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The peaceful shade of the wisteria vine provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and contemplation, making your backyard a personal retreat.

Wangaratta branch 76 Reid Street

Open weekdays 9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm) 1300 004 863 humebank.com.au

Hume Bank Limited ABN 85 051 868 556. AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

The magnificently manicured gardens surrounding the property feature a manageable orchard, bountiful citrus trees and productive veggie patches. This residence is not just a home; it’s a lifestyle. With a two-car garage, a separate workshop, and solar panels, modern convenience is seamlessly integrates into this dream lifestyle proeprty. Priced at $795,000, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Glenrowan. Contact Garry Nash & Co today to schedule an inspection and make your dream home a reality.

Agent

| Garry Nash & Co.

Phone

| 5722 2663

Price

| $795,000

Location | 220 Orchard Drive, Glenrowan

Ɏ çȒɖȸ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺ Business Guide ٨‫ב׎‬٩ ‫ ׎׎׏׎ באוד‬sales@nemedia.com.au

At Your Service Business Guide Advertise ffor o as little as s $ 5723 0100

PER WEE K

sales@nemedia.com.au

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EXPERIENCE comfort and style in this inviting weatherboard home comprising three bedrooms, one bathroom and separate living room. Embrace the convenience of being just a stone’s throw away from local shops and schools, along with the hospital and Wangaratta’s CBD. Entertain in style with a charming gazebo for outdoor gatherings and relaxation. On a generous 659m2 approx. allotment, the home offers plenty of room for future possibilities with ample space for your caravan, plus your furry friends will love the secure gated backyard. There is easy access with a dual access from Rowan and Phillipson streets. Uncover the warmth and character of

Agent

| Garry Nash & Co.

Phone

| 5722 2663

Price

| $449,000

Location |

169 Rowan Street, Wangaratta

Cassandra Cottage, your perfect home in Wangaratta. Contact the team to arrange an inspection!

If you’re not in the North East Property Guide, you’re not in the market. The region’s best property guide located inside your local paper every week and online anytime.

650

WANGARATTA STORE CATTLE SALE

THURSDAY 18th JANUARY 2024 - 9am

650

INTERFACED WITH AUCTIONS PLUS

Question about real estate? Call us 5722 1428 Level 1, 40 Reid St, Wangaratta apex@email.propertyme.com

*NOTE: Store sale now held on the 3rd Thursday of each month* Ryan Hussey 0428 125 554

Daniel Fischer 0429 165 073

Justin Keane 0427 927 500 Reiley Murtagh 0455 550 625

Oliver Mason 0409 295 826 Tom Davies 0431 149 191

NEW LISTING

Wangaratta р / # '*- - . )/ 295m2

Wangaratta 16 Raymond Street 694m2

Wangaratta 6 Mather Street 535m2

Wangaratta 4 Steane Street

709m2

Ideal start for investors

Perfect Renovator

Great First Home or Investment

Location, Privacy & Character

For Sale $265,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19193141 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $290,000-$319,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25890296 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $339,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190836 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $639,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25832517 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

NEW LISTING

Wangaratta х ")*'$ -- 518m2

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

NEW PRICE

Moyhu ф -& / /- / 3287m2

NEW PRICE

Wangaratta тх 0-- 2*)" -$1 693m2

NEW PRICE

' - рч *. ' 4268m2

Four bedroom home with the hard work done

Shedding Supreme. Renovated home and genuine yard

Custom & Quality

Space, Lifestyle & Privacy

For Sale $670,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25858977 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $720,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25438632 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $730,000-$750,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19192985 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,225,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19192683 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Edi Upper 1008 Lake Buffalo-Whitfield Rd NEW LISTING

2 6 132Ac 4 ")$!$ )/ $! ./4' *++*-/0)$/4

Laceby 604 Greta Road NEW PRICE

ғ -! / '$! ./4' *++*-/0)$/4 $) /# 0/$!0' $)" '' 4 "$*) ғ 0+ - !*0-Ҋ -**( #*( 2$/# /2* . + - / /#-**(. ғ ** *( 0./$*) # /$)" +'0. .+'$/ .4./ ( $- *) $/$*) ғ '$ ' 2 / - 2$/# / )& 2 / -Ѷ ( 2 / - ) *- / сх(/. ғ - / ($3 *! ++-*3ѵ *! ' - 3 '' )/ "- 5$)" ' ) +'0. 0.#' ) ғ 0" ) '*. .# +'0. ( #$) -4 .# /* ./*- '' *! 4*0- ,0$+ )/ ғ */. *! !$- 2** *) .$/ Ѷ "- / 1$ 2. -*.. /# +-*+ -/4 ) *(!*-/ ' #*( ғ *)/ / 0. )*2 /* -- )" 4*0- $).+ /$*) *! /#$. great property

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For Sale ‫ڦ‬рѶручѶпппҊ‫ڦ‬рѶсфпѶппп

For Sale ‫ڦ‬рѶшфпѶппп

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19190755

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L25593324

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hansonville 00 Wangaratta-Kilfeera Rd AUCTION

3 7 121.6Ac 6 Farming opportunity on the edge of Town

Greta South 250 Harpers Lane NEW LISTING

91Ac '4))ҁ. ғ 0+ - .( '' - "- 5$)" + * & *) . ' * сш &( /* )" - // ғ 0 '$/4 .*$'.Ѷ " )/' -$.$)" '* & 2$/# у (.Ѷ - - ' ) .. ғ *$'. 3 +/$*) ' $) #$"# - $)! '' - "$*) "- / !*0) /$*) !*- +-* 0 /$*) ғ - $/$*) ''4 ! *0)/-4Ѷ + ./0- . ) ! -/$'$5 -

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Auction рх спсу Ҋр+m View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L24899880

3 5 300Ac 7 с #*0. .Ѷ $-4Ѷ тпп - . ) --$" /$*) ғ тпп - . !-*)/ " Ѷ ,0 '$/4 #*( . о "- 5$)" ғ т # . +*2 - *)) / Ѷ тп 2 *' - *)) / / $-4 2 . $)./ '' спрс ғ рпп - . $--$" /$*) !-*( рф $' - & $ ѵ ғ хцр $ . ' 0(+ 2$/# х҃ +0(+ *) ч҃ .0 /$*) ғ с ' /-$ 0(+. *) рпх( *- Ѷ рхѶппп '$/- . + - *0-Ѷ +- ..0- +0(+. / #*0. ғ сп + - .$ .2$)" *1 - $-4Ѷ 0+ - (*1 -.Ѷ .4 $-4 ' /-*)$ - ȅѶ 0/* ! .4./ ( 2$/# 3/- + $/4ѵ 0-- )/'4 ($'&$)" ++-*3ѵ руп Ҍ рхп *2. ғ ) 0' /$)" /* ) '$"#/ 0.#ѵ (+-*1 + ./0- . ) ./-*)" ! -/$'$. - #$./*-4 1$.$ ' ғ # $)" *((* / 1 -4 2 ''ѵ ' *+. .# . ) &$'). рп( 3 уф( Ѷ 2*-&.#*+ 2$/# +$/ рт( 3 ц(Ѷ + ) 4. рх( 3 ц(Ѷ ) 2 - $/$*) .# су( 3 рф( 3 хѵф( $ ' # 4 ) ( #$) -4 ./*- " ғ ф ҝ-Ѷ ).0$/ Ѷ +**'Ѷ .+ Ѷ т '$1$)" о "- / " - )

For Sale ‫ڦ‬фѶсппѶппп View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L25588202

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

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

Paul Reid

SALES

Hugh Amery

Danial Siperki

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta 03 5722 9444 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

■ FIRST CLASS: Large spindle grille is the standout feature of the Lexus LX

LEXUS LX600 ULTRA LUXURY LIVES UP TO ITS NAME By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, Marque Motoring EFFECTIVELY an upmarket version of the Toyota LandCruiser, the Lexus LX large premium SUV has been around since the mid-1990s. The latest (fourth generation) LX arrived here at the end of 2021 shortly after the new LC300. It comes with petrol or diesel power, four equipment variants, three seating options and a host of new safety and tech features. The four variants are base LX, Sports Luxury, F Sport, and Ultra Luxury. The ﬁrst three are available with either petrol or diesel engines, the Ultra Luxury is petrol only. Prices range from $151,561 for an LX500d seven-seater through to $213,561 for the LX600 Ultra Luxury. STYLING There’s not a lot of scope for adventurous styling in large 4WD/SUVs such as the LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol or Lexus LX, so much of the work on differentiating between them goes into the grille. In the case of the LX the designers certainly haven’t pulled any punches. The well-established Lexus spindle grille is huge and dominates the front of the vehicle. In the entry-level LX, Sports Luxury and Ultra Luxury variants it features seven brushed chrome horizontal bars.

In profile there’s little to distinguish the LX from its LandCruiser sibling. The base LX models rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels; the higher-spec variants all get 22-inchers together with a standard moonroof. The rear features an eyecatching full-width LED light bar with LED taillights. INTERIOR The LX comes with the choice of four, five or seven seats depending on the grade. Our test car was the flagship Ultra Luxury and the name says it all. With just two individual rear seats, it’s clearly aimed more at the corporate rather than the family market. The rear occupants are seated in twin captain’s chairs with 48-degree reclining; massage function; deluxe headrests; passenger-side ottoman, and exclusive quilted upholstery. The central touchscreen between the rear seats allows passengers to control the seats as well as the rear climate control. Unusually, although the rear seats can be reclined, they do not have length adjustment and legroom can be restricted for taller passengers. The problem can be alleviated, subject to the agreement from front seat occupants, with the seat tilt mechanism moving the front seats forward. SAFETY Standard safety features

across the LX range include 10 airbags; autonomous emergency braking including for pedestrians and cyclists; active traction control; dynamic radar cruise control; lane departure warning and correction; intersection turn assist; road speed sign assist; downhill assist control; hill start assist; crawl control; front and rear parking sensors and support brake; reversing camera with washer; pre-collision safety system with emergency steering assist; multi-terrain select and monitor; blind spot monitoring; rear cross traffic alert; adaptive high-beam System; 360-degree camera; and tyre pressure warning. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The previous V8 petrol and diesel engines are gone, replaced by the 3.3-litre twinturbo V6 diesel, as used in the LandCruiser, but also with the option of a new 3.5-litre twinturbo V6 petrol. Both engines have smaller capacities than their superseded equivalents but with significantly more power and torque but lower fuel consumption. Specifically, the petrol unit petrol V6 puts out 305kW at 5200rpm and 650Nm from 2000-3600rpm; while the diesel produces 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque from 1600-2600rpm. Both engines are paired to a 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

DRIVING Getting into and out of the big LX is a bit of a climb but is helped by side steps, interior grab handles and heightadjustable suspension which enables the vehicle to be lowered by 27mm. Then, depending on the drive mode selected, it can be raised to a maximum of 103mm. The push-button start / stop button has been enhanced and now comes with a fingerprint sensor for added security. It can cater for up to 10 different drivers. Like its LandCruiser cousin the sheer bulk of the Lexus LX doesn‘t really suit it to the urban environment. Having said that the range of cameras, sensors and safety features such as rear cross traffic alert and lane departure warning should keep most drivers out of trouble. The turning circle of 12.8 metres is impressively tight for such a vehicle of its size. Once out into open territory the LX600 was a delight to drive. It’s smooth, comfortable, refined and powerful with impressively low noise levels. No matter what the road surface the big Japanese 4WD simply loped over it with never a sign of it being unsettled. The ride is relatively firm which will satisfy most Australian drivers. The 10-speed gearbox is

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE: LX 500D 3.3-LITRE TWIN-TURBO DIESEL SEVENSEAT: $151,561 LX 500D SPORTS LUXURY 3.3-LITRE TWIN-TURBO DIESEL FIVE-SEAT: $168,561 LX 500D F SPORT 3.3-LITRE TWIN-TURBO DIESEL FIVE-SEAT: $174,561 LX 600 3.5-LITRE TWIN-TURBO PETROL SEVENSEAT: $155,061 LX 600 SPORTS LUXURY 3.5-LITRE TWIN-TURBO PETROL FIVE-SEAT: $172,061 LX600 F SPORT 3.5-LITRE TWIN-TURBO PETROL FIVE-SEAT: $178,061 LX600 ULTRA LUXURY 3.5-LITRE TWIN-TURBO PETROL FOUR-SEAT: $213,561 NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Lexus dealer for drive-away prices.

seamless and almost seems able to anticipate when changes are required. The big Lexus is a thirsty beast with fuel consumption listed at 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 12.9 L/100km during our test. SUMMING UP Given that it was our test car, we’ve deliberately concentrated on the LX600 Ultra Luxury in this review but will

be getting into the familyoriented seven-seat LX500d shortly and will take it out onto our favourite off-road route. RATINGS: Looks: 8/10 Performance: 9/10 Safety 9/10 Thirst: 7/10 Practicality: 8/10 Comfort: 9/10 Tech: 9/10 Value: 7/10

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 25

Corner of concern BY BRODIE EVERIST

beverist@ nemedia.com.au

BRIGHT residents are speaking out over a stretch of road they say is dangerous, with motorists allegedly flouting the 80km/h limit as they enter and exit the town. The piece of road in question is along the Great Alpine Road near the Tower Hill Road turn off, where motorists must navigate two corners in quick succession. The road from Porepunkah to Bright had its speed limit reduced to 80m/h in late 2022, but residents who live near this corner say that’s not enough. Bright resident Brian Littlechild said he thought motorists were averaging 100km/h around the corner. “The best way to stop this is to put some tapes down and get an assessment of the average speed of vehicles coming through,” he said. “Once that’s done, probably, they’ll assess that this bend needs a 60km/h sign on it.” Mr Littlechild said there had been three driving incidents on this stretch of road over the past two years, the most recent last Monday, which police attributed to driver fatigue. “A lot of people are tired when they get up here,” Mr Litt Li tttlech lechil ild d sa said. Littlechild

LOCAL OUTCRY OVER SPEEDING DRIVERS ENTERING AND EXITING BRIGHT

REGIONAL NEWS Council moves its citizenship ceremony ALPINE Shire Council has moved the date of its citizenship ceremony, previously held on Australia Day, to January 23. “We recognise that Australia Day is not a day of celebration for all Australians, and we are moving the citizenship ceremony to a day which makes it available for all Australians to celebrate,” Alpine Shire Council CEO Will Jeremy said. “This is in line with 80 other councils across Australia that have chosen to take advantage of a change in the Federal Government rules about days when local authorities can hold citizenship ceremonies.” Mr Jeremy said the Alpine Shire Community Awards and community events will still be held on January 26.

REACHING HIS LIMIT: Bright resident Brian Littlechild said he thinks motorists are averaging 100km/h around the Tower Hill turn off and would like to see a 60km/h limit there. PHOTO: Brodie Everist “They drive from Melbourne, this is the last 10 minutes and they rush to their destination.” Although w-beam guards are installed at the corner, Mr Littlechild said the bend is particularly dangerous because it crosses a deep creek gully that he estimated is around 12-15 metres deep. “If you do go off road you’ve got nowhere to go, you’ll go down one of these steep declines,” he said. Bright resident Ray Carlson, who also lives on that stre tretc tch h of road, said it is stretch

common for motorists to take the corner at 100km/h. “For whatever reason they’re chomping at the bit to get into Bright,” he said. He is also concerned by reckless overtaking nearby, and said he has seen some motorists only return to their lane as they approach the Tower Hill Road turn off. “I’ve seen people overtaking, particularly going out of Bright, when they shouldn’t have,” he said. “There’s some really scary stuff there sometimes.” Nearby y rresident esid es iden entt Lisa a

Buckley said the speed limit should be 60km/h from the corner all the way into Bright and expects the limit will be reduced due to the housing development on the other side of the road, of which two stages were recently approved by the Alpine Shire Council. According to the Department of Transport and Planning, the Great Alpine Road between Porepunkah and Bright had a speed limit reduction from 100km/h to 80km/h in December 2022, b utt th this is ssection ecti ec tion o road ad but off ro

does not meet the criteria for further reduction at this time. “We’ve introduced safer speed limits along the Great Alpine Road in Bright in response to community concerns over congestion and sight distances,” Department of Transport and Planning executive director (Hume Region) Anthony Judd said. “Safety is always our number one priority, and these changes to the speed limits will increase safety ty ffor or rroad oad oa d us user e s.” users.”

Storm leaves path of destruction

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE and BRODIE EVERIST

A BRIEF but destructive storm swept through the Kiewa Valley on Wednesday night last week, felling trees, powerlines and causing power outages, with two caravan park residents narrowly escaping a falling tree. The storm hit around 7pm, and at the Tawonga Tourist Park people quickly sought shelter in their caravans, but this was almost fatal for one couple. Melbourne local, Taylah Brown, who has been visiting Tawonga for 10 years, was sheltering in her Jayco Swan caravan with her mum and partner when it was crushed by a falling tree during the storm. “We were eating dinner when the rain and hail picked up so we ran into the caravan with my dog, my niece and nephew and my dad came to help pack it up so the rain wouldn’t get in,” she said. “The wind was so strong the rain and hail was coming in at a 90-degree angle. “My dad took my niece and nephew into the car and just after my partner jumped in the caravan with me and the tree came down. “We didn’t hear a snap or anything, it came right up from the roots, and it squashed the caravan entirely. “The only thing that saved us from being crushed was another

TREE DAMAGE: A broken tree on the Kiewa Valley Highway following Wednesday night’s storm. tree partly blocking the fall, but my head was hit by the roof of the caravan caving in. “The storm lasted 10 minutes and everyone was okay in the end, but my life flashed before my eyes.” Tawonga visitor Kate Harrison said the storm hit within minutes. “It happened really quickly, my family and I were enjoying some pizza at my site then the rain and wind turned up to the max,” she said. “My van was fine as we had it tied down well, but we had to go to Mum’s site and hold on to her three shelters - that would’ve gone if we weren’t holding on.

CRUSHED CARAVAN: Melbourne resident Taylah Brown and her partner narrowly avoided being injured by a falling tree that crushed their caravan.

“Once the winds slowed down we moved away from the site and saw the full destruction. “It looked like something you see in those natural disaster movies. “I remember walking out from Mum’s site onto the road and seeing all the debris and trees down on people’s sites. “It was really heartwarming in the aftermath; the next hour was spent with everyone coming together to clear the way for emergency vehicles, get as much debris off sites and we were all connected through the park. “That show of community was amazing, we’ll definitely be back again.”

Following the storms, Alpine Shire Council closed Mountain Creek Road, Damms Road and Ronald Street in Tawonga and Maddisons Lane in Mount Beauty, while VicRoads closed the Tawonga Gap Road. According to council, these roads were reopened on Friday, with Mountain Creek Road open from the Mitta direction until Damms Road. On Thursday Bright SES controller Graham Gales said they had been called to 15-16 incidents on Wednesday night, and a further seven jobs on Thursday involving fallen trees and branches, while council workers were also clearing storm damage.

ROLLOVER: The occupants of a car rollover on the edge of Bright survived without injury last Monday afternoon, with police saying fatigue was responsible for the incident.

No injuries in car rollover By BRODIE EVERIST THREE occupants of a car rollover on the edge of Bright survived without injury last Monday afternoon, with police saying fatigue caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle. According to Acting Sergeant Scott Baldock of Bright Police, at around 5:30pm the 48-year-old male driver was heading to Bright from Mount Buffalo with his wife and 7-year-old child when he experienced a micro sleep episode, drove off the side of the road into a ditch, causing the car to roll over. He said the car also knocked over two road signs. He reminded motorists of the danger of driver fatigue.

Rubber ducks in river race BRIGHT’S annual duck race is on tomorrow, the 32nd year of the traditional river event and the second year run by the Bright Lions. The event starts at 5pm at Centenary Park, with live music, face painting and food for sale. Some 1000 ducks will be released from the Morses Creek Bridge at around 7pm on January 13, with the rubber ducks racing to reach the footbridge before the creek enters the Ovens River.

Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICES

OXLEY RECREATION RESERVE Committee of Management. Notice is given of a

PUBLIC MEETING to be held at Oxley Recreation Reserve on Thursday, February 15, 2024 commencing at 7.30pm preceded by a free BBQ dinner from 6.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Oxley Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 26 Jan 2024. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) ofﬁce or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, on 0407 827 789.

St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc.

THREE rentals available, 1 bedroom in shared accommodation, 1 bedroom studio apartment both i n Wa n g a r a t t a , 1 bedroom in shared accommodation in Springhurst available as well, all fully furnished, and utilities included. Please call 0428 217 493 for more information.

To Visit

Visited

G A R AG E s a l e a t 7 Peepbo Street, this Saturday 13th, from 8am-12pm. Various household items: inc - kitchenware, linen, ﬁre pit, various bikes/ scooters, electric sander, some tools, framed prints, books, backpacks, toys, stationery items, speaker, various DVDs/ CDs and an assortment of clothing - mens, womens and children.

TRADES & SERVICES

EMPLOYMENT

Odds & Ends Insulation Removal

TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED

Specialising in vacuum removal of insulation bats and loose fill Harry Mennen 0418 621 842 oddsandends58@gmail.com www.oddsandendsinsulation.com.au

EMPLOYMENT

Warehouse and Delivery Person We are seeking a reliable and experienced warehouse and delivery person to join our team. As a warehouse and delivery driver, you will play an essential role in ensuring the smooth operation of our warehouse and timely delivery of our products to our customers. This is a physically demanding role that requires excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills. To start immediately. Relevant licenses essential for more information please contact Bianca via email accounts@sammiranda.com.au

DAY RESPITE PROGRAM At St Catherine’s we understand the needs of carers, we have developed a day respite program that enables the person you look after to enjoy the beneﬁts of residential care on an ad hoc basis, while giving you more time in your day. St Catherine’s day respite program is designed for low level care. We offer a safe, welcoming and social environment for your loved as well as stimulation through our lifestyle program. Day respite care is available from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) with clients being able to access the program between 9am to 5pm on each of these days. Access to allied health, nursing, hairdressing and other services may also be arranged for those attending the day program at an additional cost. Our day respite service has a focus on healthy, positive living through structured activity programs. The day respite services are available to people subject to an assessment by the Care Manager. We will assess your respite needs and outline eligibility and assessment requirements. The cost of the day respite program is $80.00 per day and subject to availability. Please contact St Catherine’s reception on (03) 5721 2243 to enquire further.

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5723 0101

HOLIDAY house in Ocean Grove, available for rent for selected dates in January and from February 2024 onwards. Contact Leanne 0403 386 945.

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free q u o t e p h o n e Tr e v Anderson on 0422 200 761. DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wa n g a r a t t a a n d surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.

For the 2024 Grape Season. MUST BE OR HAVE: CURRENT HC LICENCE, OVER 25 YEARS OLD, FORKLIFT LICENCE, EXPERIENCED WITH GENERAL FREIGHT. APPROXIMATELY 8 WEEKS WORK, STARTING EARLY FEB. Above Award Wages for the right applicants. PHONE GREG 0429 306 679 or email jenveytransport@gmail.com

FORESTRY LABOURER RJB Forestry Services is seeking a highly motivated labourer to join their team. This is a casual position and will start daily from Myrtleford and travel to various forestry areas. A manual driver’s license is required along with a willingness to work outside in all weather conditions. Experience using a chainsaw is preferred and previous experience in the forestry industry would be highly regarded. For a full position description and or to submit your application please email rjbforestry@gmail.com. Want to know more? Contact Bob on 0447 853 472

DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE & EXPERIENCE Mansﬁeld District Hospital has an opportunity for a Director of People & Experience The role recognises the connection between employee culture, wellbeing and the consumer experience. It will oversee all workforce functions and design and deliver people experience programs that changes people’s working lives and the health service’s culture for the better to make a difference. Position Type: Permanent Full-time or Part-time ﬂexibility Closing Date: 21st January 2024 Position Description and Applications: https://www.livehire.com/job/mdh/AAMMR

Looking for a change of direction? Find your next job in the classified section of the or go online anytime at

DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers, behavioural solutions, 0418 314 610. MARKS Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156. PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade qualified, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.

CLASSIFIEDS WORK - 5723 0101

KING VALLEY WINEMAKERS

WE ARE LOOKING FOR OUR NEW WAREHOUSE’S TEAM MEMBER Pizzini Wines specialises in the production of Italian wine varieties and excellence in customer service. For further information about role requirements and responsibilities, scan the following QR code.

If you have past experience or a willingness to learn, we would love to hear from you. Please send applications to production@pizzini.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 27

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EMPLOYMENT

MHA Care ŵƉůŽǇŵĞŶƚ KƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ͗ Home Care Package Co-ordinator – Fixed Term Permanent Part-Time (9 day fortnight) based in Yarrawonga. ^ĂůĂƌǇ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĂŶĚ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ͗ ^ ^ ϱ н EŽƚ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƐĂůĂƌǇ ƉĂĐŬĂŐŝŶŐ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ͘ DƵƐƚ ŚŽůĚ Ă dĞƌƟĂƌǇ ƋƵĂůŝĮĐĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ĂŶĚ ͬ Žƌ ƌĞůĂƚĞĚ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶ н ĚĞŵŽŶƐƚƌĂƚĞ ŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ Žƌ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĐĂƌĞ ĐŽŽƌĚŝŶĂƟŽŶ͘ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐůŽƐĞ͗ Friday 2nd February 2024.

ĐĐŽƵŶƚƐ ZĞĐĞŝǀĂďůĞ KĸĐĞƌ WĞƌŵĂŶĞŶƚ WĂƌƚͲdŝŵĞ ;ϰ ĚĂǇƐͬǁĞĞŬͿ ďĂƐĞĚ ŝŶ zĂƌƌĂǁŽŶŐĂ͘ ^ĂůĂƌǇ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĂŶĚ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ͗ ^ ^ ϯ н EŽƚ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƐĂůĂƌǇ ƉĂĐŬĂŐŝŶŐ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ͘ DƵƐƚ ŚĂǀĞ ƉƌŽĮĐŝĞŶĐǇ ŝŶ DŝĐƌŽƐŽŌ KĸĐĞ͕ ƐƉĞĐŝĮĐĂůůǇ ǆĐĞů ĂŶĚ ŚĂǀĞ ĚĞŵŽŶƐƚƌĂƚĞĚ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ Ă ĮŶĂŶĐĞ Žƌ ďŽŽŬŬĞĞƉŝŶŐ ƌŽůĞ͘ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐůŽƐĞ͗ Friday 19th January 2024.

2013 Renault Clio RS 6SRUW SHUIHFW ¿UVW FDU 39,400km, (CS1990), RZQHG VLQFH QHZ DQG only driven locally and in immaculate condition, K D V D O Z D \ V E H H Q JDUDJHG DQG KDV KDG QR PHFKDQLFDO LVVXHV IXOO VHUYLFH ERRNV 3K WHITE Ford Futura Sedan 2004, as is, motor goes well, auto, needs work, alloy rims , unregis te re d, (6F9AAAJGSW4E51127), $1200 ono. Ph 0418 582 938.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

ZĞĐĞƉƟŽŶŝƐƚ WĞƌŵĂŶĞŶƚ &ƵůůͲdŝŵĞ ďĂƐĞĚ ŝŶ zĂƌƌĂǁŽŶŐĂ͘ ^ĂůĂƌǇ ƌĂŶŐĞ ĂŶĚ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ͗ ^ ^ Ϯ н EŽƚ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƐĂůĂƌǇ ƉĂĐŬĂŐŝŶŐ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ͘ DƵƐƚ ŚŽůĚ Ă ĞƌƟĮĐĂƚĞ // ŝŶ ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ ;Žƌ ĞƋƵŝǀĂůĞŶƚͿ͕ ŚĂǀĞ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ĐŽŵƉƵƚĞƌ ƐŬŝůůƐ ĂŶĚ ƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ Ă ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů ĂĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƟǀĞ ƉŽƐŝƟŽŶ͘ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐůŽƐĞ͗ Friday 19th January 2024. tĞ ĂƌĞ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŚŽ ĂƌĞ ƉĂƐƐŝŽŶĂƚĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĞǆĐĞůůĞŶƚ ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĂŶĚ ĂƌĞ ĐŽŵŵŝƩĞĚ ƚŽ ĂƐƐŝƐƟŶŐ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŚŽ ĂƌĞ ĂŐĞĚ Žƌ ŚĂǀĞ Ă ĚŝƐĂďŝůŝƚǇ ƚŽ ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶĐĞ Ăƚ ŚŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ͘ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ĐĂŶ be sent to hr@mhacare.org.au. &Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ŐŽ ƚŽ͗ ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬŵŚĂĐĂƌĞ͘ŽƌŐ͘ĂƵͬĐĂƌĞĞƌƐͬ͘ ĐŽƉǇ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƉŽƐŝƟŽŶ ĚĞƐĐƌŝƉƟŽŶƐ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ĨŽƵŶĚ ŽŶ ƚŚŝƐ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ͘ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ŵƵƐƚ ĂĚĚƌĞƐƐ ŬĞǇ ƐĞůĞĐƟŽŶ ĐƌŝƚĞƌŝĂ͘

PEDIGREE Miniature Poodle Puppies, apricot, red, brown, and black, excellent temperament vaccinated and microchipped, many testimonials available on request, source number: MB238702, microchip numbers: 956000016207918, 956000015910702, 991003002427976, 991003002427979, 991003002427980, 991003002427977. Ph 0455 171 780 or 03 5727 0595.

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MALSHIPOO puppies, 2 absolutely gorgeous females, 1 apricot and 1 black, 9 weeks old, microchipped, vaccinated and vet checked. Source number MB205779. Microchip numbers 991003002598492, 991003002598502. Contact Joanne 0413 534 180.

LOVING home needed for a Pedigree Miniature Poodle, my health issues and age mean I need to make the tough decision to re home my beautiful dog, excellent temperament, vaccinated and microchipped, microchip number: 991003001858887, source ID MB238702. Please phone 0455 171 780 or 03 5727 0959.

CLASSIFIEDS

WORK! 5723 0101

BABY Polecat ferrets, ready to go, $50. Contact 0466 056 616.

Classifieds Work!

Phone: 03 5723 0101

Classifieds

1997 Toyota Landcruiser 40th Anniversary Edition, excellent condition, only 210,000 kms, dual fuel, auto, bull bar, tow bar, CB antenna and wiring, includes 3rd row seats, reg (OOE152) until end Dec 2024, $21,000. Ph 0439 840 716.

KOKODA caravan 20’6” 2017 model, full ensuite with ceramic vanity, front island queen bed, café dinette with trifold table, 190Ltr 3 way fridge, full oven with 3 gas and 1 electric burner, 19” digital TV, reverse cycle aircon, LED down lights, top load washing machine, rolled bench tops, drawers on rollers, diesel heater installed, double glazed windows, full checker plate on front and all-comp sides, roll-out awning, 2x 95ltr water tanks with galvanised stone, 22.6Ltr gas and electric hot water system, 2x 9kg gas bottles, deep cycle battery with charger, solar wiring provision with regulator, generator hatch, picnic table, 6” alloy wheels, dual access tunnel boot with lights, immaculate condition, $60,000, legitimate reason for selling, located in Bright. Ph 0418 802 351 or 0427 189 176.

FOR SALE QUEEN size bed and mattress with 2 bedside drawers, VGC, $290. Phone 0413 931 026 after 4pm. TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, M o n d a y, Tu e s d a y, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221. Adzam Tyres. WINE bottle storage crates, solid pine, excellent condition, 26 available, $165 each, or take the lot for $4290, pick up only from Cheshunt. Phone 0412 710 751.

FOR SALE

DEATH NOTICES

1993 Akubra calendar, Australian country scenes, 1 x Akubra bucking horse postcard, 1 x Akubra emu card, $25 for the lot, 3 x framed original Akubra advertising for $50, antique hay cutting farm saw tooth knife/tool, double handled $150, solid bottle, hand turned 1970s from rare Osage orange tree, Everton pioneer hedge $50, weed sprayer with 2 wheels, 12-volt pump, 70 litre tank, hose, tow bar hitch used for a rider mower $165, bushcraft/ traditional skills books, The Forgotten Arts by John Seymour $40, Bush Leather Works by Ron Edwards $40, books by Peter Cuffley on Australian heritage, Cottage Style in Australia $40, Chandeliers and Billy Tea $40, Oil and Kerosene Lamps in Australia $40, Buggies and Horse Drawn Vehicles in Australia $40, all 4 for $140, Australian Traditional Bush Crafts by Ron Edwards $40, or all 3 for $100, photos available on request. Phone 0438 820 648.

FRAMED picture, corporate/office, 37 x 43cm, Australasian Sketcher newspaper article St Patricks Day in Melbourne $165, Day of the Dead canvas/ banner 156cm x 61cm, a little wear but stunning, $95, painting Iris water colour hand painted on silk by artist Sandra Buchan, $395, photos available on request. Phone 0438 820 648.

FITZGERALD, Gloria Jean.

HV McKay Sunshine old cast iron farm gate, 3m x 1240, excellent condition, $650, galv iron farm gate, near new, 3m x 1170, $75, very rare, over 100-year-old QLD python snakeskin, 3300m x 139cm long, $1650, photos available on request. Phone 0438 820 648.

ELNAPRESS 2000 electronic press, type EP 31, in Bright, $100. Contact 0427 189 176.

12/1/1946 – 31/12/2023 Passed away peacefully at home in Brassall, Brisbane. Loving wife of John “Fitzy” (dec). Much loved mother of Bernie and Steven MacDonald. Proud Nanna of Rebecca and Natasha. Daughter of Eunice and Vin Hiskins. Loved sister of Margaret, Russel (dec), Irene, Noel, Elaine, Ron, Brian and Jenny (dec). Forever in our hearts. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal. A service to celebrate Gloria’s life will be held Saturday, January 13, 2024 in Sumner, QLD. For more information please call King Family Funerals (free call) on 1800 221 615. With care and dignity. 100% Australian family-owned.

CLASSIFIEDS 5723 0101

FOR SALE

TILSON,

James (Jim). The Chairman, Board, Management and members of CFA regret the passing of their FROOHDJXH DQG R൵HU WKHLU GHHSHVW V\PSDWK\ to his wife Sherren, Cameron, Justin, David, Benjamin and families. James was a dedicated serving member ZLWK D FRPELQHG \HDUV¶ VHUYLFH WR WKH :KRURXO\ )LUH %ULJDGH XQWLO KLV SDVVLQJ

ANNIVERSARIES

TILSON,

NEWTON, Laurie and Errollee. Married January 12, 1974. Congratulations on 50 memorable years. Our love and best wishes for many more happy years together. ~ Love always from all your family

James (Jim). 2Q EHKDOI RI WKH YROXQWHHUV DQG VWD൵ RI 'LVWULFW ZH ZRXOG OLNH WR R൵HU RXU sincere condolences to Sherren, Cameron, Justin, David, Benjamin and their families on the passing of Jim. Jim was a member of the Whorouly Fire Brigade and held various positions; Captain, *URXS 'HOHJDWH /LHXWHQDQW DQG )LUH¿JKWHU totalling more than 43 years’ service.

Personal Notices may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication

classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101

Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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DEATH NOTICES VIHM,

Daniel Ryan. Born March 10, 1982 West Wyalong NSW Passed away suddenly Lowestog U.K 2Q WKH ¿HOG You were competitive and made me proud always trying your best. 2ৼ WKH ¿HOG “You were Daniel” You loved your family. You lived for sport. I wish I had some of your strength now. When you walked in the room it lit up. Your warmth, your humour, your smile, I will cherish all the memories of our time together, forever my precious son. So glad that you got to take that Collingwood Premiership home with you. I love you Daniel, in my heart until we meet again. ~ Your Dad xxx “Go Pies”

VIHM, Daniel Ryan. Dear Daniel, Thank you for your kindness and always making me laugh.

Read local news wherever you are Ĵ 2 )&16 )* ) '*2/, )&0+ 6*2 1/201 Ĵ ,#*/+ 1&*, 1% 1 (""-0 6*2 *,," 1"! Ĵ "40 #/*+ 1%" ,$ / 11 and the local region

I will miss all your texts and calls, footy tips and even your jokes about Carlton. I will miss talking to you on facetime when you were talking to your Dad, with whom you had such a beautiful loving bond. Thank you for letting me get to know you. Rest in peace beautiful Daniel. ~ Janine xx

FUNERALS BECHAZ, Edward John. The funeral service to honour the life of Mr Ted Bechaz will be held at 10am on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta followed by burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Honouring the Journey

Mason Park Funerals

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

John & Christine Haddrick

5722 2525 northeastfunerals.com.au

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 29

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Local people, local places

OU NO T W !

...immerse yourself in the region

Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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SCOREBOARD

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB SATURDAY, January 6 Stableford A Grade Winner: Mary Jones 37. B Grade Winner: Marilyn Pane 36. Ball Winners: Yogie Naidoo (2) 34, Chris Boseley 34, Liane Graham 33. NTP: 4th Vicki Moorhead, 8th Linda Stone, 13th Marilyn Pane, 17th Melody Adams. Saturday, January 6 Stableford A Grade Winner: Chris Palmer 40. Runner Up: Charl DeMink 39. B Grade Winner: Gordon Hines 36. Runner Up: Bill O’Brien 36. C Grade Winner: Gary Voss 39. Runner Up: Stan Goldsworthy 39. D Grade Winner: Terry Docherty 39. Runner Up: Danny Potter 35. Ball Winners: Gordon Paterson 39, Steve Fisher 38, Peter Glidden 38, Gary Butler 36, Gary Walder 36, Gavin Braybrook 36, Dave RIchards 36, Doug Ritchens 36, Alex Gibbs 36, Gary Dinsdale 36, Michael Baillie 35, David Methven 35, Paul Stacey 35, Josh Ormand 35, Wayne Hibberson 35, Leslie Naidoo 35, Trevor Gunn 35, Brian Lee 35. Super Nine Club Shirt: Mark Dean 24. Aroma Deli: Terry Docherty 23. 2 Balls: Sam Bayles 23. NTP: 4th Wayne Hibberson, 8th Mick Lugg, 13th Steve Fisher, 17th Gordon Hines. Sunday, January 7 Stableford Winner: Daryl Johnstone 36. Ball Winners: Mark Drage (2) 36, Ergun Yildirim 35, Adam McDonald 35, Aaron Kungl 34. NTP: 4th Matthew Nunn, 8th Aaron Kungl. Monday, January 8 Stableford Vets Winner: Michael Monro 37. Ball Winner: Pat Ernst 35, Paul McInerney 33. NTP: 4th Pat Ernst, 8th Joe Marjanovic. Tuesday, January 9 - Stroke Winner: Ali Comensoli 73. Ball Winners: Sue Clayton (2) 78, Liane Graham 79, Linda Stone 80, Di Murphy 80. Eagle on 15th Hole to Di Murphy. NTP: 13th Di Murphy, 17th Sue Clayton. Wednesday, January 10 Stableford A Grade Winner: Michael Cordier 37. B Grade Winner: Jim Moore 43. C Grade Winner: John McKenzie 37. D Grade Winner: Roger Henderson 44. Ball Winners: Gary Butler (2) 39, Kevin Hill 36, Andrew McKerral 36, Daniel McPhee 36, Alex Gibbs 35, John Porter 35, Tanu Nuu 35, Pat Ernst 35, Mike Monro 34, Jacob Schonafinger 34, Joe Marjanovic 34, Martin Van Rhee 34. NTP: 4th Eon Scott, 8th Tanu Nuu, 13th Daniel McPhee, 17th Tom Aggett. Wednesday, January 10 9 Hole Stableford A Grade Winner: Glenn Hunt 19. Runner Up: Alan White 18. 3rd: Mark Drage 17. B Grade Winner: Chris O’Keefe 16. Runner Up: Trevor Gunn 16. 3rd: Leo McCoy 16.

TARRA GOLF CLUB TARRAWINGEE Golf Club results Saturday, January 6 The members played for the Monthly Medal which was won by Manny Taniraua 88 : 18:70. Runner up was Ken Miller nett 75, ball winner Glen Simmons nett 79. Nearest the pins were 2nd Angelo Garraffo, 8th (Hollywoods Award) Manny Tanirau. Golf to be played on Saturday, January 23 will be arranged on the day.

DOWN THE MIDDLE: Russell Wallace watches his tee shot. Hit off times will be 8:30am for a 9:00am start. Members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428122590 or by contacting a member of the club.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB WGC Competitions: Week ending January 7 2024 Womens 9 Hole Stableford, January 2 Winner: Barb Thomas 19 Points. Runner Up: Sue Miller 17 Points. Ball Winners: Glenda Dodson, Maggie Ray, Liz Madden. Men’s Stableford: Wednesday, January 3 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Geoff Davidson 20 Points. Runner Up: Rod Godde 17 Points. Ball Winners: Trevor Cooper, Scott Thomson. Women’s Stableford 9 Hole Stableford, January 4 9 Hole Winner: Jan Hill 22 Points. 9 Hole Runner Up: Lesley Anderson 19 Points. Ball Winner: Karen Smith, Nora Martin. NTP 13th: Karen Smith. 9 Hole Medley Stableford Friday, January 5 Winner: Ashley Clayton 19 Points. Runner Up: David Edwards 18 Points. NTP: 11th Ashley Clayton, 16th Ashley Clayton. Men’s Competition: January Monthly Medal Date: January 6 A Grade Winner: Martin Anania 66 Nett. A Grade Runner Up: Scott Thomson 67 Nett. B Grade Winner: Brandon Bowen 62 Nett. B Grade Runner Up: Paul Oats 64 Nett.

Ball Winners: Kurt Schubert, Ian Rundell, Evan Laverty, Darren Burns, Jason McCoy, Matthew Robinson, Glen Seymour, Denis Hill, Jake Burns, Mark White, Matt Fischer, Geoff Webster, Steve Noble, Mark Comensoli, Doug White. NTP: 4th Geoff Webster, 7th Ian Rundell, 9th Chris Martens, 11th Rod Godde, 13th Steve Noble, 16th Chris Martens. Raffle Winner: Geoff Webster. Birdie: Trevor Cooper. Secret 6: Brandon Bowen. Medley Stableford Sunday, January 7 18 Hole Winner: Xavier Laverty 30 Points.

WANGARATTA CROQUET CLUB UNFORTUNATELY, due to 30mm of rain over Sunday night we were unable to play on Monday. Results for Wednesday, January 10 are as follows: Janet Kelly d Wendy Waddington and Gavan Kelly 7/6, Susan Fischer and Elise Downes d Christine Ireland and Gabi Heywood 7/1, Joan Dyson and Robyn Muller d Maureen O’Keefe and Cheryle Beckley 7/6. Playing days are Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 9am and Wednesday at 6pm. Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done. Late arrivals will be included in the next game. 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.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

WLTCP CROQUET ON an overcast Sunday morning 10 brave members of the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis, Croquet and Pickleball Club turned up to play croquet despite the threat of rain. Unfortunately the heavens opened up only allowing one game of competitive croquet. Scores were: Yvonne McLaughlin defeated Clive Jones and Anne Dodd 8/5; Heather Gulbin defeated Trish Rogash and Sam Baumanis 8/5; Annette Filipek and Lorraine Johnston defeated Barbara Trower and Cheryl Sampson 7/6. Our playing days are Tuesday (twilight) 6pm, Thursday 9am and Sunday 9am. All are welcome to come along and join a fun and welcoming group of people. All equipment supplied. Contact Anne on 0490 173 169.

WARBY WALKERS SATURDAY, December 30 and Sunday, December 31 Cleve Cole Memorial Hut, Mt Bogong A group of five started from Mountain Creek Campsite at 8am on Saturday, to climb the highest mountain in Victoria. It was a steep, long walk up the Staircase Track in cloudy and cool conditions. Once past the tree line, walking was easier and there were splendid views. After a short hike to the Mt Bogong summit (1986 metres) and some lunch, we trudged on to Cleve Cole Memorial Hut. This rock structure was completed in 1938 to commemorate the death in August 1936 of bushwalker Cleve Cole, who was attempting the first

winter crossing of the Bogong High Plains with a group who became lost in blizzard conditions. Around the hut where we camped and everywhere on the mountain, the wildflowers were amazing. In the Australian Aboriginal Waywurru and Dhudhuroa languages, Mt Bogong is named Warkwoolowler, meaning the mountain where Aboriginal people collected the bogong fly. Additionally, in the Dhudhuroa language the word Bugung means the brown moth, referring to Agrotis infusa (which seems to be in rapid decline nowadays). The next day we returned to Mountain Creek Campsite (via the less steep Eskdale Spur, having covered about 13kms in total. As the weather warmed up, it was so pleasant to be walking alongside clear Mountain Creek. We arrived back at the campsite in good time. It was a great walk and a wonderful way to finish the year. Coming Events Saturday, January 20 Ritchies Track, Stanley Forest (Lesley, 0439 776 687). A medium walk of approx 12km, beginning at Lady Newton Drive. This walk has several steep sections and is mostly on 4wd gravel roads, with plenty of shade. We pass by the outskirts of Stanley township. Sunday, February 4 Dickson Falls and The Back Wall, Mount Buffalo (Michael, 0447 617 880). A medium walk of approx. 13km on bush tracks from near Cresta Valley to Dickson Falls. We pass through the Giant’s Playground before reaching the southernmost point on the plateau with stunning views from the Back Wall.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 31

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WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie went to golf and tennis on Saturday to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.

JARRED CLARK

ASHLEY CLAYTON

NOEL THOMAS

IAN RUNDELL

PETER CRAWFORD

KEVIN CALLAHAN

CHRIS MARTENS

MARK BROWN

PAUL OATS

JASON McCOY

CARMINE ADAMO

Page 32 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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SPORT

Peart eager for Aus Day tennis tournament BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

MATTHEW Peart is looking forward to re-contesting the men’s open singles championship at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s annual Australia Day Tournament. The much-loved tournament runs from Friday, January 26 through to Sunday, January 28 at the gorgeous lawn tennis courts in Merriwa Park. The Beaconsfield local has taken the top prize in the tournament twice before, but fell in last year’s final to deny his hat-trick of successes. While he may live some three hours away, Peart considers himself a friend of the club, having travelled up with his parents for a decade. “We’ve been to Wangaratta now for the Australia Day tournament for at least the last 10 years or so, it’s almost a tradition now,” he said. “It’s always been a whole lot of fun, those three days. “The people there are always really enjoyable to spend time with and catch up with - every time we’ve gone, it’s kept on getting better.” Peart said he loved the

BACK FOR MORE: Matthew Peart will be hoping to repeat his triumphs in 2021 and ‘22 when he returns to compete in the WLTCP annual Australia Day tournament. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries club’s location and atmosphere, as well as the strong following the tournament has built up over the years. “My favourite part is the setting of the tennis club, situated in Merriwa Park,” he said. “The drive down the hill, the little windy road down,

DALE STRIKES EARLY WITH HELLS SON ANDREW Dale struck early at the Wangaratta Turf Club’s meeting on Thursday. Hells Son snapped a streak of four third place finishes in a row in race four’s Ovens Kia Wangaratta Maiden Plate (1170m) by a length. After drawing gate 14 of 14, hoop Lachlan King settled in the back half of the field before looming the widest on the turn. It was easy viewing for connections of Hells Son as the promising three-yearold went through his gears down the straight to salute at a valuable $13.70. “He’s been knocking on the door,” Dale said to Racing.com post race. “Lachie King has had a great association with him, we put the blinkers back on today and I was a bit more confident after the past three winners all

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

drew out (barriers) and we were as well. “He looked the winner at the furlong and it was just a matter of putting them away and I think the blinkers helped him.” Meanwhile, Craig Weeding was the only other local trainer to finish on the podium in the three races prior as Ashau Valley finished second in race three’s maiden (1400m). The galloper just ran out of legs at the final stretch to go down by half a head. Results for the remaining four races in next week’s Wangaratta Chronicle. STRONG WIN: Hells Son won race four’s maiden by a length at the Wangaratta Turf Club on Thursday. PHOTO: Racing Photos

there’s so much open space which I enjoy. “It’s a nice, relaxed vibe, which a tournament’s all about. “The lawn tennis courts themselves are great, they always play well – there’s nothing better than summer tennis on grass, so it’s

always really enjoyable to play on, which makes a fair difference. “It’s the people and the relationships with the people I’ve built, whether it’s with Frank Harris (tournament organiser) or Barry (Sullivan, WLTCP president), it’s always a pleasure to see

them again every year and catch up with them, from what would’ve been 10 years ago when I started when I was just a little kid running around on the grass courts to now.” Peart will be angling to take his third tournament crown, which comes with

a handy $1200 champion’s purse, but the opposition will be tough to beat. “I think it’s probably been aided by the assistance of (major sponsor) Premier Panels over the last few years to add money prizes into it,” Peart said. “Back in the day, even when it was just towels for winning, that was something special itself because not many places do those. “These days, money talks a bit, so having that prizemoney there can really help them bring more high-quality players over, so the standard I think is just going to keep getting better. “You go there to win, you don’t go there to lose, but it comes down to how I’m playing. “The biggest thing for me is just enjoying it, playing with joy, and if I can play a fun game style that’s exciting, then I know I’m playing well and I’ve got every chance to go well and hopefully take out the top prize on Sunday afternoon.” Entries for the 2024 Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s Australia Day Tournament close on Tuesday, January 16 – for more information, visit www.wanglawntennis.com. au/tournament.html.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 33

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Round 1

March 29-30

Bonnie Doon vs Benalla Moyhu vs Greta Bright vs Tarrawingee King Valley vs Milawa Whorouly, North Wangaratta, Goorambat - BYE

Round 2

April 6

Bright vs Benalla vs Greta vs Nth Wangaratta vs Tarrawingee vs Bonnie Doon - BYE

Milawa Whorouly Goorambat Moyhu King Valley

Round 3 Benalla Goorambat Moyhu Tarrawingee Whorouly Milawa - BYE

Bright King Valley Bonnie Doon Greta Nth Wangaratta

Round 4 Bright Bonnie Doon King Valley Milawa Nth Wangaratta Benalla - BYE

Whorouly Greta Moyhu Tarrawingee Goorambat

Round 5 Nth Wangaratta Whorouly Bright Bonnie Doon Benalla

Round 6 Bright Greta Milawa Tarrawingee Whorouly Moyhu - BYE

vs vs vs vs vs

Goorambat Benalla Nth Wangaratta Bonnie Doon King Valley

Round 7 Benalla Greta Goorambat Nth Wangaratta Moyhu Bright - BYE

May 11 vs vs vs vs vs

King Valley Whorouly Bonnie Doon Tarrawingee Milawa

vs vs vs vs vs

Greta Tarrawingee Nth Wangaratta Goorambat Bonnie Doon

Round 10 vs vs vs vs vs

Nth Wangaratta King Valley Goorambat Bright Tarrawingee

Round 11

Round 15

NAIDOC WEEK 2 - July 13

Bright Bonnie Doon Nth Wangaratta Moyhu Tarrawingee Whorouly - BYE

vs vs vs vs vs

Milawa Moyhu Bright Tarrawingee Whorouly

June 22 Bonnie Doon Greta Benalla Whorouly Goorambat

Round 13

June 29

AFL North East Border

August 3

Bright vs Tarrawingee vs Bonnie Doon vs Greta vs Goorambat vs King Valley - BYE

Nth Wangaratta Benalla Whorouly Milawa Moyhu

Round 19

August 10

Round 20

Finals

For news, results, events & information

Greta Benalla Bonnie Doon Tarrawingee Bright

Nth Wangaratta Tarrawingee Milawa Bonnie Doon Moyhu

Round 14

Moyhu Milawa Bright Nth Wangaratta Whorouly

July 27

vs vs vs vs vs

Benalla Bonnie Doon Milawa Nth Wangaratta Whorouly Moyhu - BYE

NAIDOC WEEK 1 - July 6

Moyhu Bonnie Doon Goorambat Whorouly Nth Wangaratta

Round 18

Bonnie Doon vs Moyhu Goorambat vs Greta Milawa vs King Valley Tarrawingee vs Bright Whorouly vs Benalla Nth Wangaratta - BYE

Benalla vs Bonnie Doon vs Greta vs Goorambat vs King Valley vs Tarrawingee - BYE

vs vs vs vs vs

Round 17

Benalla Greta Goorambat King Valley Whorouly Bright - BYE

Round 12

July 20

King Valley vs Milawa vs Nth Wangaratta vs Moyhu vs Whorouly vs Goorambat - BYE

June 15

Benalla Goorambat Greta King Valley Milawa

Round 16 Bright Benalla King Valley Milawa Tarrawingee Greta - BYE

June 1

Bright vs Milawa vs Nth Wangaratta vs Moyhu vs Tarrawingee vs King Valley - BYE

May 4

King Valley Benalla Bright Milawa Moyhu

May 25

Benalla vs Greta vs Goorambat vs King Valley vs Nth Wangaratta vs Bonnie Doon - BYE

April 27

Greta vs Goorambat vs King Valley vs Milawa vs Moyhu vs Tarrawingee - BYE

May 18 vs vs vs vs vs

Round 9

Bonnie Doon Greta Milawa Moyhu Whorouly Benalla - BYE

April 20 vs vs vs vs vs

Bonnie Doon Goorambat Nth Wangaratta Whorouly Tarrawingee Greta - BYE

Bright Benalla King Valley Moyhu Whorouly Milawa - BYE

April 13 vs vs vs vs vs

Round 8

Good Good Friday Good Good Friday Easter Saturday Easter Saturday

August 17 vs vs vs vs vs

Elimination Finals Semi Finals Preliminary Final GRAND FINAL

Goorambat Tarrawingee Bright King Valley Greta

August 24-25 August 31-September 1 September 7 September 14

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@AFLNEB

Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta Showgrounds, Wangaratta Ph: 03 5722 1993 | Wodonga Ph: 02 6056 1993

www.aflneb.com.au/Ovens-and-King-FNL

Facebook: @Ovens & King Football Netball League

Page 34 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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SPORT

PLAY RESUMES: Steve Bihun and Wangaratta A3 return with a clash against Club Mulwala at home tomorrow. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Business end of bowls season begins By WILLSON MACK

LEADER: Wangaratta Magpies skipper Jack Davies will be hoping to lead from the front against Benalla Bushrangers tomorrow.

‘Pies desperate to win IT’S the final one-day game of the season for Wangaratta Magpies and while they can’t make the final, skipper Jack Davies said there’s still plenty to get out of their clash against Benalla Bushrangers at Benalla Gardens Oval. Similarly to the Magpies, the Bushrangers are also out of the hunt but nonetheless a win brings crucial points towards the overall standings as the quest towards two-day finals begins. The Magpies currently sit in seventh, 12 points away from the top four and will need to be nearly perfect from here on in to make finals for a third successive season. Wangaratta Magpies skipper Jack Davies said his side needs to win.

BY WILLSON MACK

wmack@ nemedia.com.au

“We need to start winning games if we’re going to keep our season alive,” Davies said. “Like us I’m sure Benalla will be sniffing a win as well because we’re in similar positions. “We rate ourselves higher than where we’re currently sitting and know we have the cattle to be playing finals so hopefully we can find some form in the back half of the season.” The Magpies met the Bushrangers in a two-day encounter in round four and grabbed a pulsating two run win. Benalla’s Priyank Chohan

whacked 76 and Davies is well aware his opponents can do plenty of damage. “Benalla have a few damaging batters and bowlers who can take the game away from you,” he said. “Similarly to last weekend we just need to contain them as best we can and take our chances when they come and with the bat we need to manipulate the field and look for ones and twos.” Although the ‘Pies fell to City Colts last weekend, their score of 9/194 would get the job done in most games. “It was the story of the season for us, some moments got away from us,” Davies said. “We were good for the majority of the time and con-

tained them well apart from a six over period where they tore us apart. “We just need to win those moments and find a way to get back on top.” The Magpies are buoyed by the return of Frazer Dent this weekend. “Our side has been pretty unsettled for most of this season but we get Frazer Dent back this weekend,” Davies said. “He’s our top fielder and probably one of the best in the competition and can score some handy runs in the middle to lower order. “Hopefully we can find some more consistency in our team and have all players available at some stage.”

OVENS and Murray Bowls weekend pennant resumes for Wangaratta’s A3 and B1 sides tomorrow. Both sides are well in the finals hunt with A3 sitting fifth on equal points with Tungamah in fourth, while B3 currently hold fourth spot. A3 are looking a great chance to resume their season with a bang when they meet the eighth placed Club Mulwala at home. Wangaratta B3 get the chance to bridge their gap between Chiltern who are just a game behind in fifth spot when the two sides meet at Wangaratta Bowls Club. The remaining A1 and B1 teams return to play the following weekend. Wangaratta A1’s Maurie Braden said it’s good to have three of the four sides in solid positions. “All sides bar the A1 are in a pretty good position to push for finals,” Braden said. “A3 probably have the favourable draw and should go close to making it. “In the A1 we’re probably where we thought we’d be, we’ve struggled a bit this year and Myrtleford have been a surprise. “Ethan Fruend’s coming back to play with us though, he got sick of travelling to Essendon so it’ll be good to have him back.” Braden said the club’s green is in good shape ahead of tomorrow’s return. “We’re really happy with how green one is looking, it’s come along nicely,” he said. “We’ve done a renovation on green four and that’ll be up and running later in February. “Greens two and three have had some maintenance done and should be good to go for next weekend’s games. “We want to get all of our greens in nice shape so we can hopefully host a few finals.” Meanwhile, Wangaratta Bowls Club’s barefoot bowls kicks off again in March. Games will be played every Thursday through March, for anyone that is interested contact the club.

Do or die time ■ From back page

“In saying that, they’ve got some really talented players – both the Nanson boys, Mitch Giggins has been in really good form, then you’ve got the experience of Kent (Braden), Jesse Smith, and ‘Slimma’ (Justin Solimo) and those types. “They have a really good mix in their side, it’s no wonder they’re going so well this season.” McNamara said every member of his squad would have to stand up and perform, with the skipper praising the efforts of allrounder Jeremy Wilson. “He’s probably our most important player, to be honest,” he said. “Obviously he gives us variety in our bowling at-

tack with his spin option, and he can bat anywhere. “He’s been batting in the middle order for the last couple of years, and we threw him up the top on the weekend and he got us off to a really good start which was much needed in a run chase. “He’s a huge player for us, he’s committed for the rest of the season which is great.” Rovers United Bruck host City Colts at WJ Findlay Oval this Saturday from 1pm. In other matches, the Magpies take on Benalla Bushrangers at the Gardens Oval, Yarrawonga Mulwala plays Beechworth Wanderers, and Ovens Valley United host Delatite at McNamara Reserve.

WHITE BALL FEVER: Jeremy WIlson and Rovers United Bruck are one win away from a white ball grand final.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024 - Page 35

Vale Daniel Vihm

SPORT

Popular p l llocall sporting p g star p passed d awayy at h his h home in England gl d on New Year’s Dayy OBITUARY

Daniel Vihm

10/3/1982 – 1/1/2024 THE Wangaratta sporting community was saddened to hear of the sudden loss of local sporting icon Daniel Vihm, who passed away suddenly on New Year’s Day at his house in Lowestoft, England, aged 41. From cricket to footy and everything else, Daniel was passionate about his sport for his entire life. Growing up in Wangaratta, Daniel played everything he could, excelling as an all-rounder for Wangaratta Magpies and City Colts CC, as well as playing footy for Wangaratta Magpies and various O&K clubs, most notably North Wangaratta where he was part of the 2012 premiership team. It didn’t take long for Daniel to make a name for himself with bat and ball, winning the Con O’Callaghan Trophy for most promising young player in B or C grade in the 1997/98 season, before picking up C and A grade batting and bowling awards over the next few years. At age 20, Daniel was selected for the Australian Wattlesprigs, a touring cricket side which spent six weeks playing in England, Ireland and Scotland, with his skills and personality earning him best batter, best bowler and best all round cricketer awards. His time in England would prove fateful, as Daniel later moved there where he would meet his partner, Kelly-Jo, and the pair would soon have two daughters, Eden and Maya. Back home, sport continued to be a massive part of Daniel’s life, including as part of the 2010/11 A grade City Colts team taking out the one day premiership over Beechworth Wanderers. Daniel is well remembered among the cricket clubs in the area, with Colts

REST IN PEACE: Daniel Vihm pictured recently with former English cricket captain David Gower after Daniel’s tremendous season of cricket in England.

COLLINGWOOD FOREVER: Daniel Vihm with his nieces after his beloved Collingwood made the 2023 AFL grand final. and Magpies observing a minute’s silence and sporting black armbands during their most recent match. Daniel also loved his footy, both playing for local clubs and watching his beloved Collingwood. He was in Australia most recently in September, and was able to see his Magpies take out the 2023 AFL premiership. In 2020, Daniel started playing for English cricket club Woodbridge. On-field, Daniel excelled in English conditions, mak-

ing 2163 runs from 44 league matches at an average of 127, with nine fifties and nine centuries. He also recorded impressive results with the ball, taking 30 wickets at 17.80. Daniel’s father Kalju remembers his son as a joyous and passionate sportsperson. “Daniel loved his family, and he lived for sport - from an early age, he just loved his sport, that was his life. “Daniel had just finished his cricket season over there, we’re pretty proud

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because at age 41 he made nearly 900 runs for the season, he made the most runs for the league and he was presented with a medal for that by (former English captain) David Gower. “He could kick the leather out of a footy - North Wangaratta were on the bottom of the ladder, they recruited him and a few other players and they won the flag (in 2012), and I think Daniel might’ve kicked 100 goals that season. “He contacted me every day by text, every day I got

a text just letting me know what’s happening with Collingwood in the footy “He actually came over here in September himself, booked his flight six months earlier because he was that sure that Collingwood would win the grand final. “We’re just happy he was able to take that premiership back with him.” The Woodbridge Cricket Club penned an emotional tribute to Daniel. “His arrival brought a new pulse to the club, marked by his contagious humour and

friendly spirit,” an excerpt reads. “Daniel quickly became an integral part of the club’s culture, his presence felt both on and off the field. “His friendliness and genuine warmth touched everyone he met. “His ability to light up a room and bring people together was a testament to his character. “Daniel was not just a player; he was a friend, a source of joy, and a beacon of positivity within the Woodbridge Cricket community. “The loss of Daniel Vihm has left a palpable gap in the hearts of his family, friends, and the cricketing community. “His untimely departure is a reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have on so many.” Daniel’s body will be cremated in England, with his ashes to be brought back to Australia by his father. Details of any service or memorial will be disseminated by the family.

Page 36 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 12, 2024

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Peart back for annual event

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Page 32

TEXTBOOK JOHN Southwell launches into his tee shot during his competition round at the Wangaratta Golf Club on Saturday morning. ■ Results and more photos:

Pages 30-31 PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Do or die time

Rovers United Bruck and City Colts to battle it out for one-day final berth

THE race for a place in the A grade one day final comes to a head this weekend, with one last match to play. The top two sides after this weekend will play off for the one day trophy on Sunday, February 4, but the ladder is looking extremely close at the moment. Ovens Valley United

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

currently leads the pack on 43.9 points, with City Colts (43.6), Rovers United Bruck (42.9) and Yarrawonga Mulwala (37.1) all in the hunt. The Hawks play host to

the Colts this Saturday, meaning the pressure is on for both teams, with a win almost guaranteeing a grand final berth. RUB skipper Paddy McNamara said this match was a must-win for his squad. “Every win is so important, and obviously whoever wins this weekend goes into the one-day

granny, so it’s a huge opportunity this weekend,” he said. “We’re coming off a really good win last week against Ovens Valley, and we knew we had to win these two one-day games to not only get into the one-day final but also set up our season heading into the two-dayers and semi-finals.

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“It’s a very important game, we’re pretty tight with Colts on the ladder and it’s always a pretty good rivalry, everyone’s raring to go.” The Colts will be a tough opponent, with several key players finding form both before and after the Christmas break. “We obviously want to get them back, they got a good

win against us earlier in the season in the two-dayer, so we’ve really highlighted this game on the fixture,” McNamara said. “They’ve got some key players, obviously Isaac Willett played really well on the weekend, and if he’s playing he’s obviously their danger man. ■ Continued page 34

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