and Peter Lewis from The Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps are calling for the community to volunteer in the 60th Red Shield Appeal.
Retiring surgeon reflects on his on rewarding career Driver receives prison time for time for death of cyclist death of
Wangaratta Cycling Club has hopes for facility it believes would benefit region g Cy g C p f f y fi g
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
A GREENFIELD cycling facility in Wangaratta would not only cater for the city’s cycling club, but could have a significant impact on visitor numbers to the district, according to Wangaratta Cycling Club president Paul Somerville. Mr Somerville said the club had plans to establish a new base close to the Wangaratta Saleyards, and was hopeful of seeing progress in coming years.
He described as “decrepit” the existing velodrome track at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, which has long been highlighted as an ageing piece of sports infrastructure in the city.
“We are also getting squeezed out by football clubs’ training regimes, as well as by cricket in summer, and there are not an awful lot of other cycling facilities,” Mr Somerville said.
“There is a real untapped demand for facilities for kids’ cycling in Wangaratta.
“The velodrome is not suitable for racing or carnivals anymore, and even if
council spent money at the showgrounds, because of the issues with access we would still only be able to use the velodrome for one night a week over summer; you can’t run a program like that.”
Instead, the club would like to see a mountain bike skills park established at
the saleyards, which Mr Somerville said could become a major bike tourism drawcard.
“We want something which would be able to be used at all times by the club and the community,” he said.
■ Continued page 2
■ From page 1
“This is not just about cycling, but about keeping the community active, and drawing people to the area.”
Mr Somerville said the club was enjoying positive dialogue with council about cycling’s future in the city.
“We are hoping council will see the wider economic benefits of cycling infrastructure in the town, which would then have a flow-on effect to areas such as accommodation as people are drawn here,” he said.
“Part of our strategy is to also have a criterium track together with the mountain bike park at the saleyards, which would be a good way to teach skills for road racing in a much safer environment, and could also attract events to Wangaratta.”
Rural City of Wangaratta director community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan said council was currently working with the cycling club on the establishment of mountain bike tracks in the Warby Range area.
“We have had discussions with the cycling club about a number of different projects, including a greenfield site, and a mountain bike circuit in the Warby Range,” he said.
Mr Goonan said it was clear through both the Wangaratta Parklands Masterplan and the draft Recreation and Open Space Strategy that removal of the velodrome from the showgrounds was among council’s priorities, so alternative sites for cycling would need to be explored.
“We haven’t confirmed any sites within Wangaratta for a greenfield velodrome site, but we will continue to work with the cycling club,” he said.
“At this point in time, we are working on the cycling club’s focus project: mountain bike tracks in and around the Warby Range, and we are going through the process of working with all the agencies involved.”
Mr Goonan said as
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash at Taminick on Thursday morning which killed a 49-year-old Thoona woman.
It is believed a vehicle towing a horse float was travelling along Glenrowan-Boweya Road when it veered off the road and hit a low-lying tree branch, just before 8.30am.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.
Police said one horse died at the scene and the second horse was euthanised.
The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.
to establish a greenfield cycling facility
Saleyards
cater for
funding became available for more development, feasibility studies may be carried out on alternative locations.
He said bike tourism was already a drawcard for Wangaratta through its recreational network of tracks and trails.
“It is already very strong in Wangaratta, so it’s about how do we continue to make that happen?” Mr Goonan said.
Mr Somerville said the development “needs to happen soon”.
He said smaller North East centres like Bright and Beechworth were cater-
ing for demand, and had boosted their tourism pulling power by establishing facilities which drew riders from around the region and from metropolitan areas to take to their bikes in natural surrounds.
“Wangaratta has been very successful in cycling in the past; when you have an Olympic gold medallist (Dean Woods), a Commonwealth Games gold medallist (Glenn Clarke), and a rider who has collected the green jersey at the Tour de France (Baden Cooke) all coming from this area, that says something,” he said.
“But for a sporting club to be successful, you need a home base, and these days no-one comes out of the blue to win major events or obtain state or national selection; it’s a lot more professional than it was in the ‘70s and ‘80s.”
Mr Somerville said a new base would draw young people to the sport, but also cater for all ages, and provide a cycling experience which could be the envy of the region.
“Our lifeblood is the young kids, and we have 15 to 20 who are very keen,” he said.
“A lot want to do moun-
tain biking, but we are struggling to cater for that, apart from a few unofficial tracks in the Warbies.
“Hopefully we can keep the momentum going, so that in about two years we can see something substantial.
“With a facility like the one we’re talking about, we would be able to run better programs to attract and retain kids in the sport, and for those working to take their cycling to the next level, they could do the bulk of their training in Wangaratta, which is a lot more palatable to parents and kids.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash, with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
There have now been 82 lives lost on Victorian roads this year.
THE Dirrawarra Indigenous Network in Wangaratta will honour Wangaratta’s 2024 Citizen of the Year, Ruth Kneebone, next month.
At its 2024 Marmungun Rock ceremony on May 26, the network will unveil ms Kneebone’ handprint in the rock.
THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the Rural City of Wangaratta will finish at 1am on Monday, April 15, and for the remainder of the North East region in the municipalities in CFA’s District 12, 13, 23 and 24.
While restrictions are lifting in these areas, the CFA still expects the grassfire risk to remain across the state, so residents are being advised to be alert and prepared.
SATURDAY’S afternoon and evening home games at the Wangaratta Showgrounds will be a great opportunity for sponsors and supporters to check out upgrades to Wangaratta Magpies Football Netball Club facilities.
A past players’ day will be staged by the club on Saturday as it hosts Wodonga at the showgrounds, and those taking in the action are invited to walk through the new change room development, which has brought netballers and footballers together under one roof in modern, custom-built facilities.
Along with a self-funded $100,000 redevelopment of the existing change rooms fronting Norm Minns Oval, the club and the wider community will benefit from construction of new change rooms at the rear of the clubrooms - part of upgrades aimed at ensuring the showgrounds is equipped as an emergency relief centre.
The venue was utilised as an emergency relief base during the 2019-’20 bushfires, and works have been funded by a $2 million allocation via the Federal Government’s Black Summer Bushfire
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Recovery Grants program, which is also covering improvements to the nearby Wangaratta Rodeo Grounds; relocation and expansion of the Wangaratta Lions Club shed; expansion of the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club; provision of cooling and heating to the existing sports development centre; and wayfinding signage.
The works are aimed at enabling the Rural City of Wangaratta to better prepare, coordinate and facilitate a seamless relief centre during an emergency, and will also deliver key outcomes identified in the Parklands Masterplan.
WFNC co-president Jon Henry said the development had been welcomed by all Magpies players utilising the showgrounds.
“Because the netballers’ and footballers’ change facilities all lead into the trainers’ rooms, it brings everyone together, so that our club is together on and off the field,” Mr Henry said.
“We would be one of the few places in country Victoria to offer that.
“With the gym, we now have a much bigger space, and we are looking at upgrading the equip-
COMPLETED WORKS: Wangaratta Magpies Rose Henry, Josh Styles and Olivia Holmes in the new-look change rooms. Developments at the club have brought facilities for footballers and netballers under the one roof. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
He said Saturday would be an opportunity to thank sponsors and all those who had assisted with the project.
MINUTES of misjudgment ending in a fatal road tragedy has seen a 23-year-old Wangaratta woman sentenced to at least six months in prison.
Tears flowed from family and friends of Abby Sturgess at Wodonga County Court on Wednesday as Judge Peter Rozen delivered his sentencing on her guilty plea to a charge of dangerous driving causing death.
The former Northeast Health Wangaratta nurse received a 16 month prison sentence, with at non-parole period of six months, following a fatal collision with Rutherglen cyclist Tony Reeckman on the Rutherglen-Springhurst Road on January 27, 2023.
No evidence of emergency braking or turning by the defendant was identified, with Instagram opened on
her phone at the time of the collision.
The defendant performed CPR on Mr Reekman, who was hit from behind at a speed estimated by police to be between 79kph and 86kph and later died at the scene.
In a letter tendered to court Ms Sturgess expressed her deep sorrow for the victim, the victim’s family and her own family.
“A part of me also died that day, and I can no longer be proud of myself,” the letter read.
In initial evidence to police, the defendant denied the use of her phone before the collision and said the sun had been in her eyes.
Analysis of her phone found she had allegedly sent and received messages on Snapchat while driving.
Crown prosecutor Ben Kerlin said the defendant’s prolonged use of her phone for around two minutes before the incident showed “disregard for the safety of other road users”.
Judge Rozen acknowledged she was a young offender and “panicked” in her initial evidence to police, making amends with an early guilty plea.
Previously the court heard the “shock, grief and disbelief” in victim impact statements from the deceased’s sister, Barbara Reeckman, and his long-term partner, Debra Enshaw.
Ms Reekman said she had trouble sleeping and experienced anxiety when spotting cyclists while out driving herself in the aftermath of the incident.
She said Mr Reeckman was “the happiest (she) had ever seen him” in the lead up to his passing, after selling the family farm and retiring alongside his partner.
Ms Enshaw said she had been robbed of the future she and Tony were looking forward to, and without him, she felt a smaller, duller and sadder version of herself.
“The worst day of my life was the last of Tony’s,” the statement read.
Judge Rozen said it was clear the enormous role Tony played in the lives of those around him and his loss would be felt for the rest of their lives.
The court heard multiple “most impressive” character references of the defendant from friends, family, work managers and colleagues.
Earlier in the day, forensic psychologist Rebecca Fakhri said the defendant had struggled with multiple mental health issues following the incident, including post-traumatic stress disorder.
Judge Rozen noted in Ms Fakhri’s report, the defendant had told her she wasn’t distracted by her phone during the incident, and it was not brought up in her assessment.
Defence lawyer Jo Swiney said imprisonment would likely have a significant negative impact on her client’s mental health issues and future behaviour, which was echoed by Ms Fakhri.
“She doesn’t have the coping mechanisms yet to deal with the additional trauma a custodial sentence could present,” Ms Fakhri said.
Ms Swiney said her client
RODENTS Rats and mice
was a young offender who had shown an “enormous amount of remorse”, and had excellent prospects of rehabilitation with consistent psychological appointments outside of custody.
The defendant was living in Rutherglen at the time of the offence but had moved to Wangaratta to be with family following the tragedy.
Judge Rozen said the significance of deterrence of re-offending held significant weight in his sentencing decision.
“The objective gravity of your offending and your degree of moral culpability mean that only a custodial sentence can adequately address the relevant sentencing purposes,” he said.
Judge Rozen also disqualified the defendant’s driver’s licence for 18 months.
HOW CAN YOU HELP? It’s important that you don’t allow a few rodents to turn into a rodent infestation on your property.
HOW CAN YOU HELP? It’s important that you don’t allow a few rodents to turn into a rodent infestation on your property.
Learn more about our SMART Digital Pest Control available for homes and businesses. Call us today on
The sooner you take action the better. With pests it’s not about treating the symptoms you see but removing the source of the problem. This calls for a professional pest exterminator such as Economic Pest Control.
The sooner you take ac tion the better. With pests it’s not about treating the symptoms you see but removing the source of the problem. This calls for a professional pest controller such as Economic Pest Control.
Looking for a non-toxic solution for your rodent problem?
Hassle-free pest control solution that handles all the work? Then SMART is the answer.
As a surgeon, you’ve got to be able to communicate, to work in a team, have tactile skills, respect the fragility of human tissue, and also have the confidence and courage to act, and the knowledge to know when to act.
- PETER THOMAS
WANGARATTA surgeon Peter Thomas will enjoy the latest in a series of farewells this evening, as he moves towards his retirement next month.
Together with orthopaedic surgeon Michael Falkenberg, Mr Thomas will mark his retirement from the Wangaratta Private Hospital with a function at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway; Mr Falkenberg, while retiring from the private hospital, will continue to work at Northeast Health Wangaratta.
For 64-year-old Mr Thomas, tonight’s celebration will be another occasion to reflect on a 29-year career as a general surgeon in the rural city, which evolved from his recognition as a youngster that working in medicine offered the chance for “a life well lived”.
“I wanted to be a doctor even when I was a kid; I could see that they made an important contribution to the community,” he said.
Originally from Sea Lake, in the Mallee district, Mr Thomas moved with his family to the Bellarine Peninsula, and is proud to say he was the first student from Newcomb High School to become a doctor.
“I had the drive, and I was determined; I enjoyed the challenge,” he said.
“Initially I was planning to be a country GP, but I did my internship in Geelong, and on rotation worked with a guy called Bob Waterhouse, who was a really gifted surgeon, and I developed a love of surgery.
“As a kid, I wasn’t a
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
handyman, but I liked the fact that (as a surgeon) you could get in and fix things straight away; I liked the decisive nature of the specialty.”
Mr Thomas worked at the Austin Hospital in Melbourne, then spent four years in Britain (he is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh) before returning to the Austin.
He boosted his surgery training in readiness to take up a position at Bob Fraser’s Docker Street consulting rooms, and relocated to Wangaratta in 1995.
In addition to working at Wangaratta’s private and public hospitals, Mr Thomas also provided outreach services to Benalla until recently, to Mansfield for about 17 years, and to Myrtleford for seven years.
“The bit I’ve enjoyed most about my practice has been the interaction with people,” he said.
While the COVID-19 pandemic delayed his retirement, as all health professionals put their shoulders to the wheel during uncertain times, he is now ready to settle into retirement and experience life without oncall responsibilities.
“I think it’s the right time to go, because we have a great workforce in place, and two great hospitals in town,” he said.
“People keep telling me I’m going to miss it, but the last thing you want to do is be past your peak.”
While his role has covered the breadth of surgery, Mr Thomas said he had always had an interest in breast cancer surgery, and had seen significant change over recent decades.
“Thirty years ago, everyone got the same treatment, and there was no allowance for the differences of the disease; now, we treat each patient differently,” he said.
“It’s very mentally stimulating ensuring the best management of care for each person.”
Along with increasing knowledge and treatment, he said the growth in the role of breast care nurses had added a vital element to the care of local patients.
A Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Mr Thomas enjoys sharing his skills with young trainees, and has taught on about 65 three-day courses over 23 years; he is director of a course focusing on care of the critically ill surgical patient. He said the exchange of knowledge moved both ways, as he also enjoyed adding to his skillset while working with trainees who visited Wangaratta.
“Even our trainees who don’t settle here become great contacts, because they know you and know that when you ask for advice, it’s a genuine
need; the head of surgery at the Royal Melbourne Hospital was a trainee here 25 years ago,” he said.
“Wangaratta is one of the most popular rotations with trainees, because of the experience it offers.
“We have a really robust health service here, and bat well above our average because of the teamwork and affinity (among local health professionals).”
Now, as he prepares for his work life to wind down in late May, Mr Thomas has plenty of interests to pursue.
First, there will be a European holiday with partner Sherril, as well as more time to spend with his children and grandchildren, and on his nine acre property at Wangandary.
Then there’s his passion for collecting antiques - most associated with Australia’s involvement in World War 1and a more recent involvement in long-distance target shooting with Wangaratta Rifle Club.
Mr Thomas said he felt that that young Sea Lake boy would be pleased with the career he had carved out.
“I’ve enjoyed the work, and I’ve worked hard,” he said.
“As a surgeon, you’ve got to be able to communicate, to work in a team, have tactile skills, respect the fragility of human tissue, and also have the confidence and courage to act, and the knowledge to know when to act.
“In a lot of cases, you’re doing a small harm for the greater good - and always trying to do the best for that person.”
THE Salvation Army is urging the local community to get involved in the 60th Red Shield Appeal.
Volunteer pastors of The Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps, Peter and Rhonda Lewis, are calling for the community to get on board and volunteer to help those in need this winter.
The money raised will go back into the Wangaratta community; Loaves and Fishes Christian Caring will use the funds to support vulnerable people in the community with food and emergency accommodation.
The Red Shield Appeal weekend is May 25 and 26, but there are many volunteering opportunities throughout the month of May.
Mr Lewis said volunteers will man static collection points, set up with a chair and equipment in a set location rather than going door to door like in the past.
“It will make a huge difference if we get volunteers, we encourage anyone who can spend an hour or two at one of the stations to reach out,” he said.
“The dates we are collecting are Tuesday, May 21 to Sunday, May 26, with locations to be confirmed.”
Mrs Lewis said that the Salvos’ local congregation is quite elderly and many aren’t up to collecting, so they’re appealing to the community to lend a helping hand.
“If we don’t get volunteers, it could end up being four of us spreading ourselves between the different donation locations,” she said.
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
The Salvation Army’s Major Warren Elliot said the need for donations had never been greater.
“We are seeing more people come through our doors every week, new families who have never done it this tough before, and people are feeling the pinch,” he said.
“They are skipping meals, unable to afford utility bills or medication for their kids, this is why we need your support.
“We can’t do our work in the community without you...North East Victoria needs your support more than ever.
“The Salvos are grateful for the generosity we have received over the past 60 years of the Red Shield Appeal and we hope to see our community come together again this year as we seek to make it another 60 years.
“All funds raised locally will remain in the local community, allowing the Salvos to meet the specific needs of the most disadvantaged and marginalised members of our region.”
Local community members wanting to get involved can contact Peter Lewis by phone at 0401 886 412.
To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if you need support from the Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.
A 59-YEAR-OLD Wangaratta man’s spurt of erratic behaviour towards a neighbour, including threatened assault with a hammer and a cactus branch, has seen him placed on a two-year good behaviour bond.
Wangaratta Magistrates
Court this week heard the accused was suffering from a lapse in his mental health and medical condition, which prompted the spurt of offending across three weeks late last year.
On October 20, the reportedly agitated offender waited outside of his neighbouring unit’s door with a hammer.
The accused verbally abused his neighbour and smashed the door three times with the hammer, as
the victim held the door closed with her child inside.
When police arrived, the accused did not comply with officers for some time and denied the allegations of threatened assault, saying he was holding the hammer to put a nail on his door.
In the early hours of November 10, the accused verbally abused his neighbour victim outside her home, yelling “I’m going to kill you” for around 10 minutes.
Police arrived and after initially fleeing on foot, the accused was arrested at his home address later in the morning.
A protections order was issued by the victim in the aftermath of the incident.
Defence counsel Nancy Battiato said the spate of erratic
behaviour by her client was spurred on by a deterioration of his mental health caused by verbal abuse of new neighbours, which had prompted the accused to stop taking mandatory medications for his medical condition in the time of the offending.
The protections order was breached once when the accused threw a cactus branch into the yard of the victim.
Magistrate Peter Mithen took into consideration the accused’s responsibility of caring for his sick mother who he lived with, as well as the accused’s acceptable recent record of offending.
The defendant was placed on a two year good behaviour bond and agreed to making a $1000 donation to the court fund.
THE 11th Annual Wangaratta Woodworkers Scrollsaw weekend will be held on May 4 and 5.
Fifteen of the best expert scrollers in Australia will demonstrate their skills at the Wangaratta Woodworkers shed in Evan Street and members of the public are invited to attend.
The artisans will give instructions to woodworkers on how to make the most of their scrollsaw.
A scrollsaw is a small electric or pedal-operated saw used to cut intricate curves in materials such as wood. There will also be skilled pyrographers demonstrating their artwork. Pyrography or pyrogravure is the free-handed art of decorating wood or other materials with burn marks resulting from the controlled application of a heated object such as a poker. The term means “writing with fire”, from the Greek pyr and graphos.
from 9am to 4pm on the Saturday and 9am to noon on the Sunday.
Don Slade from Shepparton will have a large selection of timbers for sale specially prepared for scrollsawing suitable for experts and beginners.
For further information on the scrollsaw weekend or the Wangaratta Woodworkers, contact Fran on 0419 214 198, Ashley on 0418 307 306 or Jim on 0417 535 137.
Entry is free for the public
New members are always welcome.
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
THE Salvation Army Wangaratta is urging people from the local community to get involved in the 60th Red Shield Appeal.
Volunteer pastors of The Salvation Army Wangaratta are calling for members of the community to get on board and volunteer to help those in need this winter.
The Red Shield Appeal weekend is May 25 and 26, but there are many volunteering opportunities during the month of May, with collections taking place from Tuesday, May 21 until Sunday, May 26.
Currently, they only have a few members and are spreading themselves thin to do everything they can to help those in need.
It would make a major difference to the volunteers if anyone could even spend some time helping set up or manning the static collection points for even an hour or two, unlike in the past when volunteers went from door to door.
They welcome anyone who can volunteer, especially the younger members of the community.
If you’re unable to volunteer, the need for donations has also never been greater.
The money raised would help those struggling to make ends meet with all of the money raised going back into the Wangaratta community.
Loaves and Fishes Christian Caring will use the funds raised to support vulnerable people in the community with food and emergency accommodation.
Local community members who want to get involved are encouraged to contact Peter Lewis by phone on 0401 886 412.
To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if you need support from the Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.
FACEBOOK users this week commented on the poll which asked: Should daylight savings finish at the end of summer?
• Marlene Lamond: We only need it for at the most 5 months. Yes end of summer sounds good.
• Rez Leslie: Shouldn’t have it at all, it is a pain in the neck, especially with children and trying to keep up a normal routine.
• Roxanne Sacco: Yes.
• Ricky Iles: NO!
• Marg Ann: should never have started.
• Jill Lindquist: Absolutely! I’d rather it wasn’t a thing at all.
• Charles Branstom: It should not end at all. Numerous studies show that DST increases public health and the quality of life by getting people outdoors more, reduces crimes like mugging, reduces energy usage and minimizes energy peaks.
And note that while there may be some effect on traffic accidents the first day or so
I HAVE just read that the four-year Victorian public service wage offer includes annual pay rises of three per cent in line with the government’s cap, a $5600 cost-of-living bonus and a one-off $1000 payment to shift workers.
The numbers above are only for bureaucrats - frontline workers such as teachers, nurses, ambos, firefighters, police etc ain’t getting anything near this.
These bonuses also include every department secretary on $600,000 plus; CEOs and executive directors on $200-300,000 will also get these bonuses.
I struggle to comprehend how anyone on $200-$600k a year needs a pay rise and a “cost of living bonus”.
These people whose wages are paid for by the Victorian taxpayer are above any threshold of financial pain.
In my opinion it’s a slap in the face to many Victorians that are doing it tough.
We have the highest debt of any state, our daily interest repayments are something like $30 million a day, and we have a budget coming that will make a meteorite strike look like a puddle in comparison.
People need to start calling, emailing there MPs and show their displeasure about this.
These people do not need this additional financial support.
People who have to weigh up between paying their rent or mortgage and having three square meals a day probably do.
Matt Strahan, Greta SouthGAMBLING may be a personal choice but it damages the whole community.
Yes, there are a variety of avenues to gamble but to say we should just ignore it because people will find another avenue is a disappointing defeatist approach.
Yes, we should finally be joining the Alliance for Gambling Reform.
Think of the almost $10 million lost in our city in the past financial year and reflect on how much benefit could have been had by children in schools, sporting clubs and in their families.
Think of the past 20 years and do the numbers.
The losses rise from around the $7 million per year in 2002 to where we are now at just below $10 million.
after the DST time change, all studies show that traffic accidents and fatalities reduce significantly over the days of DST.
• Tim Jacobs: Scrap it all together.
• Robyn Laskovas: YES. Facebook users also commented on potential Plans for a $50 million social and affordable housing development on Greta Road’s former Ovens College.
• Catherine Jones: Maybe throw in some community gardens so people can grow their own food.
• Tracey Wadley: Catherine Jones yes good idea.
• John Giggins: The 15 minute cities begin.
• Leslie Matthews: Excellent idea... Facebook users also commented on Marley Higham umpiring alongside grandfather Lenny Holden.
• Marg Wilson: Great to see this actually happening early mentoring is important.
Should the Fire Danger Period (and fire restrictions) remain in place in the local district until May 1?
SPACE FOR FUN: Last weekend, Greta FNC officially opened their brand new playground located at the Greta Recreation Reserve in Hansonville. The club identified the need for a space for the many kids to play and enjoy themselves around the club, as nothing was there for them previously. Organised and led by Blake Goodwin (club president, 2023; current vice president), the project began back in 2022 and attracted sponsorship from ARTC, TAC, Blake Goodwin Concreting, LS Concrete & Quarry, STY Fencing, and a grant from the Rural City of Wangaratta. Pictured enjoying the new playground are (back, from left) Harriet Craven, mayor Dean Rees, Will Perkins, Tony Tanner, (middle, from left) deputy mayor Harvey Benton, Gordy Perkins, Greta president Mick Polworth, Blake Goodwin, Dave Wilson, ARTC’s Jacinta Piazza, (front, from left) Jonathan Goodwin and Georgia Goodwin. PHOTO: Sarah Craven
The month of February 2024 EGM losses were $788,628.
Yes, we have personal choice but when it impacts on our community we need a council which will put a cap on the number of EGMs allowed in our community.
The monetary amount is staggering and the cost to community is unsustainable.
Claire Russell, WangarattaDAYLIGHT SAVING
Yes 46 No 22 Should daylight savings finish at the end of summer? THIS WEEK
68
votes to yesterdaynoon
Should the Fire Danger Period (and fire restrictions) remain in place in the local district until May 1? Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page
FACEBOOK users this week commented on lockers being installed for people experiencing homelessness to store their belongings.
• Allison Gillick: What a brilliant idea, well done to all involved
• Takeshi Covac: Shows the the cost of poverty and homelessness that you have to down size your life to the size of a locker. Once homeless, it’s incredibly difficult to ever recover. That’s what our current, intentional crisis has done, wiped out Australians from ever being able to do anything other than survive.
• Denise Gay: Well done. What a fantastic idea.
• Judy Heather: Great initiative
• Karen Tobias: How does a person fit in there,bit cramped. They need housing to be blunt.
• Elise Justine: Yessss. I love love love this. Now they have a safe spot for their belongings, well some of them!! So beautiful
• Jody Davern: I was only thinking about this the other day … it a great idea….. I’m sure they would appreciate it !! Facebook users this week
Follow
Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
also commented on Rebecca Kreltszheim’s 150th club game for the Rovers.
• Alicia Dunstan: Congratulations Bec
• Tess Keane: Congratulations Bec! Have a great game!
• Gabrielle Grant: Well done and congrats Bec- awesome effort
• Joanne Cresswell Foster: Congratulations Bec
• Bec Kreltszheim: Thanks everyone! Go Rovs!!
• Bree Anne: Gun
• Harry Nolan: Greatest to ever do it
X USERS this week tweeted about Wanagaratta Speedway, affordable housing and celebrity sitings.
• Hayley Currie: Well done!
• Courtney Hillier: Go Bec Kreltszheim superstar
• Mina Lamb: Jet
• Cam Green: Queen Facebook users this week also commented on the State Government committing to partial financial support for affordable housing development.
• Georgina Rea: Good start.
• Phill Antonello: About time
• John Barnard: Wouldn’t hold my breath with no tradies to build them
Tweet
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
14,772
Totally Motorsport @totally_msport CONGRATULATIONS to Adam Buckley for winning last Saturday night’s Victorian GP Midget Title at Wangaratta Speedway. The Sydney, NSW-based racer was able to defeat Matt Kamo and Shawn Ward in the Victorian Title deciding feature race.
Helen Haines MP @helenhainesindi
Great news: we’ve just taken a big step towards more affordable housing in Wangaratta.
Jack Johnston @JackCJohnston
As a kid, I met Jason Akermanis at a signing event in Wangaratta just after he “retired”. Well, I say met. He was on the phone doing some radio interview by the time I got to the front of the line so my rabid Bulldog 11 year old self couldn’t even say hello
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
WANGARATTA RSL held its monthly veteran and family morning tea on Tuesday at the Templeton Street club. Ex-service personnel and their families are invited to attend the gatherings on the second Tuesday of each month. This month, in the lead-up to ANZAC
Day, those attending were invited to bring along some memorabilia from their service days to show and tell. For further information about the monthly morning tea, phone 0447 217 768.
Ray Steadman, Bluey Bettles and Bob Hayward. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
Women conquer challenge, raise $10,000 for great cause
THREE Wangaratta women raised almost $10,000 during their recent five-day cycling challenge in New Zealand.
Northeast Health Wangaratta staff members Belinda Dunbar, Jacqui Verdon and Michelle Kelly took part in the Melanoma Patients Australia New Zealand Cycle Challenge last month, along with six other riders from Queensland and NSW. Their $9879 fundraising effort sur-
passed their initial $9000 target, and these funds will be used by Melanoma Patients Australia to deliver support to melanoma patients. Altogether, the group of nine cyclists raised $37,000 for MPA.
During their five-day ride on the Otago Central Rail Trail on New Zealand’s south island, the group faced a range of conditions, from heat to rain and cold; their last day of riding started at a temperature of six degrees,
and on their return to Queenstown after the ride, there was snow on the mountains.
They covered 202km in 12 hours and 40 minutes, reaching an elevation of 1422m.
“We are so grateful to everyone who purchased wine, socks, jam, cycling gear, and made donations to our portals,” Michelle said.
“We are completely overwhelmed by everyone’s support and generosity.”
THE roles have now been cast and rehearsals are underway as the Wangaratta Players prepare to present The Long Road at the Stage Door Theatre in June.
Written by Shelagh Stephenson, the play is a gritty, true to life drama which centres around the death of 18-year-old Danny who is fatally stabbed in a random attack, and how his family struggles after the event.
Director Brad Buckingham said he was delighted with the level of interest shown during the audition process, and it meant some difficult decisions had to be made as he allocated the play’s five roles, which include Danny’s older brother Joe, his mother and father, Mary and John, the young killer Emma and prison social worker, Elizabeth. He said he’s thrilled to have ended up with what he described as a very good cast. “I’m very pleased and they’ve already done some terrific work just in the few rehearsals we’ve had, so I’m feeling very hopeful and confident,” he said.
Brad said while the subject matter of a young boy being stabbed is confronting, it’s also about how the family deals with grief and tries to understand what happened.
While the play has traditional features, it also involves quite a few scenes where the characters are talking directly to the audience about their experience, which can be emotionally challenging.
“What’s been interesting is getting the cast to think, who
is the audience?” Brad said.
“Is the audience a victims of crime support group, a crime commission (and they’re a lived experience witness), or is it just someone who you haven’t seen for a while, but you’re quite close to and you can say these things to?
“Because the script doesn’t say - it’s just the text - so that’s been interesting”.
Brad says among the challenges for the director are finding actors who could cover a range of intense
emotions, so precise sections of the script were chosen for the audition process, with some auditions overlapped so candidates could read together.
He also considers an actor’s interest and attempt to understand the character, and then in a more practical sense, whether they are open to taking direction and tackling the role in a different way.
In the case of Makensie Clark, who has been cast as the Emma, Brad says he
immediately identified her ability to play a surly teenager in both her words and physicality.
Jack Johnstone will play Danny’s brother Joe, Brad saying his ability to change gears when it came to emotion - from outraged and angry with both parents, to tender and kind with is mum - was impressive.
The cast, which also includes Colette Quin as Joe’s mother Mary, Shane Douthie as his father John, and Miranda Schroeder as
the social worker, Elisabeth, have now begun rehearsing three times a week.
Brad says they have read through the whole play and completed a walk-through, also now giving thought to staging, lighting, props and costumes.
“We’re setting in a fairly stark way because the play was written to be portableto be in a theatre, but also to be taken to a hall,” he said.
“The show has already toured prisons within England, where it was written.”
There will be six shows performed in June at the Stage Door Theatre and some members of the Wangaratta Players team are exploring new opportunities as part of this production, including Laura Gundrill taking on the position of assistant director, Aleeta Carmody as stage manager, Nola Puppa managing props and Helen Faithfull looking after costumes.
The Wangaratta Players welcome new members interested in learning roles on stage and off, with more information available by visiting their website or Facebook page.
Funerals
THE chance to learn about food handling, coffee preparation and responsible serving of alcohol at reduced fees attracted local young people to The Centre in Wangaratta last week.
The courses were conducted by the Rural City of Wangaratta in partnership with The Centre, and funded by Engage funding from the State Government.
Offered for just $20 each, the courses were aimed at assisting young people looking for casual and part-time employment, and eager to build on their skillsets.
Rural city youth development officer Rachel Harrop said the classes were fully booked, with the young people involved saying they had enrolled to gain new skills and options for employment.
“These courses are very valuable and great for allowing younger people to build a portfolio of certificates and qualifications for employment,” one participant said.
Ms Harrop said it was the fifth time the $20 courses had been offered, and anyone keen to take part should look out for further courses later in the year.
The food handling and barista courses are open to young people aged over 16, while the responsible serving of alcohol (RSA) course is available to those aged between 17 and 25.
Friday, April 11, 2014.
By SIMONE KERWINMADDY O’Keefe’s smile says it all.
The bubbly 13 year old netballer is back playing the game she loves, just three months after suffering burns in a farm accident, and she couldn’t be happier.
Glimpses of the compression suit she wears to treat her injuries are the only outward sign of what she’s experienced since early January, when the ride-on mower she was using at her family’s Boorhaman farm exploded.
Maddy received burns to her left side and back, a mixture of superficial, partial and full thickness, and was treated at Northeast Health Wangaratta before being flown to the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Her mother, Megan, said Maddy had undergone skin grafts in the days after the accident to treat the full thickness burns.
“The superficial burns have healed nicely, the partial burns are still healing, and with the full thickness burns, all the energy is now in trying to minimise the scars,” she said.
Through it all, Megan said Maddy had maintained a determination to return to sport and school as soon as possible.
“She’s just been amazing, and I’m so very, very proud she’s come this far,” Megan said.
cident had highlighted the local community’s supportive nature.
“Strangers stopped me down the street and asked how Maddy was,” she said.
10 years ago 10 years ago
“She had to be back for Little Aths, she had to be back for netball, and she had to be back at school for the first day with all her friends.”
Maddy has been rewarded for her efforts, receiving a gold medal for under 14 track results with Wangaratta Little Athletics, returning to netball in an under 15 representative team, finishing fourth in the Galen Gift (a schoolwide, no age limit footrace), and now preparing to line up with the Wangaratta Magpies’ under 16 netball team.
It’s a far cry from the moments after the accident, when Maddy’s main concern as she drifted in and out of consciousness was for her netball future.
“I love netball, and I thought I wasn’t going to be able to play again,” she said.
“Then they told me I’d be back playing in winter, and I thought I’d be really unfit by then.”
So she has been excited to return to her active best much earlier than expected, and said the injuries had not held her back.
Megan said Maddy’s ac-
“You would think it’d be intrusive, but it was quite humbling and comforting, the fact that people cared.
“The phone didn’t stop, we just kept receiving messages all the time, and I don’t think we could name all the people who helped.
“The support was amazing, and I just want to thank everyone for everything they’ve done – the gifts, the food, the help, we’ve been very, very spoilt.”
Maddy has graduated from weekly visits to the Royal Children’s Hospital, to monthly trips.
And with the RCH Good Friday Appeal on the horizon, Megan said the O’Keefe family was well aware of the hospital’s importance.
“The paramedics and the base hospital here were great, and the next thing we knew we were in the Royal Children’s Hospital, and they were incredible,” she said.
“The surgeons, the nurses and the doctors were very, very comforting.
“(Wangaratta man) Pete McQuade was selling raffle tickets not long after the accident and I asked him what they were for; when he said it was the Royal Children’s Hospital, I reached for the notes.
“It’s an amazing place.”
WANGARATTA Centre
Against Violence (CAV) has announced a new Empowered Healing Program to support and empower victim survivors of sexual and family violence.
The program consists of eight sessions, each lasting two hours, led by experienced counsellors specialising in trauma recovery.
Paige Zamperoni, team leader of the sexual assault service team at CAV, said group support is unique, particularly in these settings and the program is set up in a safe and confidential environment which allows for a beautiful healing process which promotes confidence and stability.
“We’re mindful that being in a group environment is completely different from a one on one counselling session,” Ms Zamperoni said.
“We put an emphasis on confidentiality and safety, but we focus on supporting people to shift the blame, shame and stigma that comes from sexual and family violence, to create a path for healing and empowerment.”
The program is pre-structured but will be tailored to the individuals in the group and what is best suited to their healing journey.
Ms Zamperoni said every
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
week will be different, and it’s based on reducing the impacts of revictimisation and also giving victim survivors a space to feel safe and comfortable that assists them to reclaim a sense of agency and empowerment.
“The goals are to empower victim survivors and ensure that we can give them a healing pathway, ensuring that they are not defined by their experiences,” she said.
“The group sizes will be a number that is manageable and safe for both the participants and the facilitators to ensure safety and that the group can run in a positive way.”
This is CAV’s first time running this group, and it is based off a similar group from Wodonga which has been successful in the past.
Ms Zamperoni said the group environment allowed participants to normalise and validate some of the emotions that they were feeling and promote healing in a different way as opposed to healing in one-on-one therapy.
“Decreasing their isolation
is important, we know that decreasing isolation can further promote empowerment, support and empathy within each other,” she said.
“The responses so far have been positive.
“Unfortunately, quite often people were limited to the number of sessions we can provide in counselling so it’s positive that people will now be able to step down from counselling into group sessions or people who may not be ready or wanting to engage in one-on-one counselling, now have the option to join a group.”
The program is designed for anyone over 18 who is a victim survivor of either family violence or sexual assault who is comfortable with a group setting and is wanting to receive support on their healing journey.
The eight sessions will run weekly and the next group is scheduled to commence on Monday, April 29.
People can refer themselves by contacting CAV through their website at https://centreagainstviolence.org.au/.
For more information contact CAV via email at omcasaintake@ cav.org.au or by phone at (03) 5722 2203.
THE next Wangaratta Farmers Market will be held in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral tomorrow morning from 8am until 12pm.
Shop for seasonal fruit and vegetables along with meat, fish, eggs, baked goods and other locally made products, from local growers and makers.
A NEW exhibition of artworks by local artists Linda D’Agostino and Melissa Johns is showing at the Art Gallery on Ovens.
It includes layered landscapes by Linda in soft pastel hues, and mixed media works by Melissa incorporating sustainable, upcycled materials, along with ink drawings and illustrations.
The exhibition will run at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street until April 15, open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm with entry free.
THE Wangaratta Vet Clinic in Baker Street is holding an open day to showcase their veterinary surgery to the community on Sunday from 11am to 2pm.
Members of the public are welcome and view the clinic’s gold standard facilities offering the latest technology available, designed to provide a high standard of care to animals.
The event will also feature a free barbecue for all along with hot drinks courtesy of Caity’s Coffee Van, along with animals to adore.
A COLLECTION of works by local artist Joan Mullarvey is on display in the foyer gallery at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
Joan’s work sits between painting and printmaking, creating bold and distinctive works on paper that take inspiration from her local environment.
Hints of the Valley brings together a series which use the printmaking process of collagraphy; a technique she is particularly drawn to, where textural collaged plates are created then inked in a painterly approach. They will be on display until May 29.
AN exhibition which examines the multifaceted layers of trauma, displacement, loss and the complexities of grief through thought-provoking artworks, is in its final days at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
In Grief has brought together work by artists Maissa Alameddine and Emily McIntosh, who through performance, glass, photography, textiles, sculpture and installation, pay homage to past traumas, loss and sorrow.
Through the processes of making, their works act as memorials - a way to honour and preserve personal and collective memories.
Sydney based Lebanese Australian artist, Maissa Alameddine, draws from her heritage and culture to present visually rich and haunting performances, that explore displacement and migration. Her immersive video and sound-works draw the
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 with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.
Stalls are available for $25 each (no bookings required) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.
FOR the month of April, My
viewer into cultural rituals and celebrations tied to ancestral homelands and the act of reclaiming distant culture on foreign soil.
Carefully assembled objects, such as prayer rugs and traditional vessels accompany her video works and point to the inevitable loss and the effort to reclaim traditional practices experienced by many migrants.
Melbourne based artist Emily McIntosh produces minimal glass and mixed media sculptures that examine the human condition through representations of biological and psychological structures, functions and activities involved in self-preservation, memory, vulnerability and resilience.
Her works focus on surface treatments that amplify fragility, translucency, shadow and reflection, evoking human memory and the fleeting nature of recollection.
It is the artists’ first exhibition together, having met
Little Patch is showcasing an exhibition of quilts created by Rhonda Lewis. Come along and be inspired by the display, during opening hours at the shop located at the rear of 49 Reid Street in Wangaratta.
AFTER a four-year break, the Jamieson Autumn Festival makes its muchantici pated return this weekend, promising a day filled with entertainment and festivities for all ages.
Deciduous trees in all their autumn colours will be the backdrop for a day featuring family-friendly fun, community games, musical entertainment, local arts and crafts
more than a decade ago while working in Sydney. Their friendship and the life events they have experienced, together and apart, have informed their practice and the development of their work for this exhibition.
Wangaratta Art Gallery director, Rachel Arndt said both artists create work that is emotive and poignant.
“The exhibition is a powerful exploration of resilience and hope in the face of grief and very relevant to our times,” she said.
The gallery’s new Creation Station features a collaborative work devised by the artists in conjunction with the gallery team, titled Collective Memorial. The artists invite those who come along to make their own leaf to contribute to a communal work about remembrance and add it to the shared lattice garden.
In Grief will come to an end at 4pm on Sunday.
and regional food and beverages.
The festival will be held on Saturday from 11am until 5pm and a program can be downloaded at mansfieldmtbuller.com.au/ jamieson-festival-2024/.
SEE the work of awardwinning artists from around Australia at the 62nd Annual Autumn Art Exhibition being held at the Bright Art Gallery and Cultural Centre until May 12.
There will be a wide range of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery on display and all artworks are for sale, and it is open daily from 10am until 4pm.
Merlin, aged 15, has had a keen interest in reptiles for several years and has contributed this week’s article.
LOVE them or loathe them, snakes are a fascinating and diverse group of animals that play important roles in our natural ecosystems.
One of the more attractive species locally is the Inland Carpet Python.
This variety of the broader Carpet Python group occurs sparsely across parts of northern Victoria, inland New South Wales and southern Queensland, and differs greatly in colour and pattern from those found in other parts of Australia, especially the darker coastal forms.
They are primarily grey, paler underneath, conspicuously mottled with a complex carpet-like pattern of dark grey, black and brown blotches.
Though they can attain a full size of up to two and a half metres, most individuals found are much smaller.
In this region, Inland Carpet Pythons mainly occupy open woodlands where there are numerous large old hollow-bearing trees with fallen limbs and logs
strewn below, especially those around rocky outcrops and granite boulders and slabs with large crevices.
With the assistance of heat sensory pits on their snout and lower lip, Inland Carpet Pythons hunt for warm blooded prey including rats, mice, bats and rabbits.
Large prey items are preferred and though they may be more difficult to swallow, they provide
substantial quantities of food, allowing pythons the ability to consume food relatively infrequently. To swallow large prey, pythons can voluntarily dislocate and re-set their jaw, allowing them to ‘walk’ their mouth over the prey, gradually stretching wider and wider, before eventually the whole animal has been swallowed.
Another evolutionary marvel is their ability to move their heart and windpipe up and forward in their body, almost to the front of their mouth, allowing them to continue breathing throughout the busy and often time-consum-
ing process of feeding.
Female Inland Carpet Pythons usually lay a clutch of between 15 and 20 eggs in late spring to mid-summer, in which she then coils around for 6-10 weeks until the eggs hatch. The mother can regulate the temperature inside the eggs, often by ‘shivering’ to create friction and heat up the young inside.
When the eggs do hatch, the babies are then completely independent, fending for themselves the moment they hatch.
Coming into the cooler winter months, Carpet Pythons, along with
many other reptiles, will be encountered much less often, however, they may find the roof cavities of your homes or sheds appealing.
Now being endangered, their populations locally have diminished substantially – their main threats being habitat loss through removal and disturbance to fallen timber and rocks, predation by foxes, dogs and cats, and road mortality.
They can be found in many rocky parts of the Warby Ranges and surrounding roadsides and properties where suitable habitat exists.
Wangaratta Football Netball Club extends a huge thank you to the following people for their contribution towards our recently completed change rooms upgrade. The development brings our footballers & netballers under the one roof in our modern, custom built facilities.
The multi use female friendly facilities include new netball & football change rooms, ablutions block, meeting & coaches rooms, trainers area & refurbished gym.
The upgraded facilities are a great example of community spirit with over 50 businesses
They include: THANK YOU!
& individuals volunteering their time to make it all possible.
We sincerely thank those that have generously contributed to the demo & fitout of our existing rooms for our community club.
David ThayerRob Humphrey & Andrew Worland
Gav Mathieson & Fraser
Haymes Paint Shop Wangaratta
Annie Heetel
Chris Aggenbach & Matthew Booth Jordan Fisher
EllisChristian Jones
Alpine Truss
George Prothero
Bi-Rite Home Appliances Wangaratta Plumbing by Hall
Travis WhileyColin & Ben Hall & Zac Carton
KA Beer Service Canny Carrying Company
Kim Arnold Rod & Jai Canny
Wangaratta & Indigo Computers
Luke Chilcott
Coulter’s Plumbing Service
John Coulter & Gary Cross
Border Switchboards Sheetmetal & Powdercoating
Brennan Jenvey
Tim Houghton & Carl Norton
Tradelink Wangaratta
Nathan Bihun
Bordignon Excavations
Jim & Michael
Junior Magpies Football Club
Mark Stone
Josh Owen
Crown Building & Construction Dulux Trade Ultra Project Services
Matt KellyAndrew McCollRick Cleeland
Elite Pressure Washing Past & Current Players Bricklaying
Luke ZaneMick & John Ryan
Middy’s Electrical Wangaratta
Snowden Brothers Engineering
Rob Snowden & David Cunningham
Andrew McLeodPeter Snowden
We also extend a thank you to Helen Haines & the Rural City of Wangaratta for their part in securing funding as part of the Wangaratta Parklands Emergency Relief Capacity.
THE Milawa Oxley Rotary Club demonstrated its dedication to supporting literacy and education by donating 60 books to newborn babies and their families at Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) as part of Literacy Week initiatives.
The Rotary Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Rotary International, has identified seven critical humanitarian areas of focus worldwide.
Among these, basic education and literacy stand out as fundamental pillars for addressing community needs and supporting global development.
Emma McLaughlin, president of the Rotary Club of Milawa Oxley, said the club recognises the power of education and actively contributes to this cause.
Ms McLaughlin, together with past president Patti Bulluss, spearheaded the local initiative, and they presented “Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes” by the much loved Australian author Mem Fox and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, to newborns and their families.
Jacqui Webb, maternity unit manager at NHW, graciously received the donation on behalf of the hospital.
“We believe in the profound impact of basic education and literacy on individuals and communities,” Ms Bulluss said.
“By providing these books to newborns and their families, we hope to instil a love for reading from an early age, setting a foundation for lifelong learning and success.
“It’s a beautiful book to share with your little ones.”
The chosen book not only entertains but also educates, supporting cognitive development and bonding between parents and children.
“For a small club we make a huge impact both within our community and abroad,” Ms Bullussi said.
“Some of our projects include supporting the building of schools in Fiji, a Polio immunisation project in India and many local projects as well.
“We also are heavily involved in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program and currently have students from
Germany and Argentina with us, and one of our own students in Japan.
“Our club is always welcoming of new members, so if you are thinking of wanting to be a part of our amazing projects, feel free to contact us anytime.”
For more information on the Milawa Oxley Rotary Club and their initiatives, please contact wwwrotaryclubofmilawaoxley.org.
A MAN will contest charges related to alleged drunken outbursts that injured an expartner at Glenrowan last year.
The accused appeared online from custody at the Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where defence counsel, Nancy Battiato, said he client would be pleading not guilty to the charges.
When the accused first appeared in court on Monday, the court heard of two alleged drunken instances in May and October of last year, including one in the presence of the victim’s two-year-old daughter.
Police prosecutor Senior Constable Luke Land told the court the victim suffered multiple injuries, including a lacerated back, face, six fractured ribs, a fractured hand and multiple bruises and bite marks in the aftermath of both alleged drunken incidents at the accused’s Glenrowan address last year.
A family violence order was also placed between the pair in August last year but was breached when the victim visited the accused’s Glenrowan address in October last year.
The accused will now face court again on June 6 for a contested hearing.
1-Day FREE Intensive Course at the Benalla Hospital
Monash University’s Department of Forensic Medicine is proud to present its FREE CPD Unit 2 Training Responding to Sexual Violence in Adults.
COURSE STRUCTURE:
This unit focuses on a consultation with a patient who discloses that they have been subjected to sexual violence. It will equip practitioners with an understanding of the challenges to disclosure: •
Core to this content is an exploration of key communication skills to support trauma-informed and patient-centered responses. This unit references the WHO’s LIVES Framework for responding to and caring for individuals subject to sexual violence and the RACGP’s Eight Steps to Intervention (The 8Rs).
This training is open to all AHPRA registered healthcare professionals.
DETAILS:
Tuesday 30th April at the Benalla Hospital 8:30am - 5pm
THIS beautiful Lifestyle property is perfectly set on 10.3 acres within minutes of Wangaratta on a sealed road.
This charming brick home provides three bedrooms, two bathrooms and study with a generously proportioned open plan kitchen, living and dining space.
The updated kitchen offers full electric cooking with great storage.
Upon entry you are greeted with an abundance of natural light, polished floorboards, high ceilings, wood burning heater and a wide verandah surrounds the home.
The spacious primary bedroom provides a full ensuite and walk in robe.
Wangaratta branch
76 Reid Street
Open weekdays
9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)
1300 004 863 humebank.com.au
Two further guest bedrooms all contain built in robes with a designated study and second living.
Ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling provides the perfect climate all year round.
Call Danial Siperki on 0400 027 473 at Nutrien Harcourts to arrange your private inspection.
Two further bedrooms, both with built in robes, are serviced by the contemporary central bathroom providing bath and a separate shower.
Ducted evaporative cooling, wood burning heater along with ceiling fans ensure year-round comfort.
The outdoor area delivers a great undercover space for entertaining, leading to the north facing rear yard complete with
4.3m X 6m shedding with concrete floor.
The low maintenance yard is fully secure complete with established trees and garden.
The carport offers car accommodation for a single vehicle.
This property offers a fantastic opportunity for the family, perfectly located to both secondary schools, multiple primary schools and early education providers.
Call Danial Siperki at Nutrien Harcourts real estate to arrange a private inspection
‘The Rockery’ 354 Cemetery Rd, Eldorado
• Signature Alistair Knox 3-bed mud brick &
garden, avocado & olive orchard opportunities
FOR SALE $1,650,000 3 2 4 41 ha
• Exceptional & tightly held grazing property including 54 ha cleared & 60HA native bush
• Magnificent Red Gums, extensive Ovens River frontage, numerous billabongs & city water
• Machinery & disused shearing shed, power connected, steel/timber stockyards & crush
• 24 Meg high security irrigation licence
• Approximately 12.8 ha of leasehold land
• Outstanding opportunity to secure a quality rural asset positioned only 8km from town
• Inspection highly recommended
THIS property at 11A Williams Road in Wangaratta offers the perfect opportunity for someone looking to downsize to a low maintenance home or looking for a great returning investment.
The home consists of two separate living areas, three bedrooms all with built in wardrobes, and the main having an ensuite and walk in wardrobe.
Heating and cooling are well catered for with gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout, gas cooktop, electric oven and gas boosted solar hot water service.
Externally there is a concreted outdoor entertaining area, garden beds and the property is on its own title.
The home is approximately seven years old and is in a great location
Agent |
Phone | Price | Location | 3 2
Nutrien Harcourts
5722 9444
$500,000 - $550,000
11A Williams Road, Wangaratta
close to schools, bakery, post office and walking tracks.
Call Paul Reid at Harcourts Real Estate to arrange your private inspection 0417 537 520.
NESTLED in the West End of Wangaratta, this welcoming family includes three bedrooms, with an ensuite to the front main bedroom.
The heart of the home is a spacious kitchen, seamlessly connected to a meals and dining area, perfect for gatherings.
A large formal lounge, coupled with a second separate living area, provides ample space for family activities or quiet time.
Year-round comfort is well catered for with modern amenities including a split system, gas heating, and refrigerated cooling.
Outside, a paved entertaining area invites alfresco dining, while a single carport with rear access leads to a workshop and storage shed.
The honme is conveniently located
Garry Nash & Co.
5722 2663
$520,000
5 Spink Avenue, Wangaratta
near schools, childcare, walking tracks, and public transport.
Discover where comfort and convenience meet in the heart of the West End.
shoe Lodge Blood’
Wendy Williams - Milawa (AWN)
7 Shorthorn Steers 14mths WEANED
Balaka – Killawarra (NUTR)
7 Angus/Friesian X Heifers 18mths
YOUNG CATTLE
Burrayang Pty Ltd –Milawa (NUTR)
65 Angus/Hereford X M/sex 10-11mths Injemira Blood WEANED
KT & GR VincentBobinawarrah (AWN)
40 Angus M/Sex 1012mths ‘Fernhill & Te
Mania Blood’ WEANED
Shellorr – Greta South (NUTR)
40 Angus & Angus/ Hereford x M/sex 9-11 months WEANED
Thynne Family Trust –Gundowring (NUTR)
30 Angus & Angus X M/sex 8-9 mths ‘Rennylea’ Blood
Greta Valley Grazing –Greta (NUTR)
25 Angus M/sex 9-10mths ‘Jove Angus’ Blood
Merindah Farm – Boralma (NUTR)
25 Angus M/sex 9-10mths
Yerrin Past – Barjarg (NUTR)
18 Angus & Poll Hereford Steers 10-11mths ‘Injemira Blood’ WEANED
JH & TM PartonBenalla (AWN)
15 Angus M/Sex 9-10mths, ‘Riga Blood’
Pennington Pastoral –Barjarg (NUTR)
10 Poll Hereford Steers 10-11mths ‘Injemira
Blood’ WEANED
D Wilson - Milawa (AWN)
8
■ THE NEW GENERATION: MG4 is the first to use the innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.
By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, Marque Motoring
TO begin this review of the MG4 XPower, the company announced that it was switching to national driveway pricing for its entire fleet.
In the case of the MG4 range the new driveaway prices replace the previous manufacturer’s RRP and equate to savings of around $3000 to $5000.
The fully-electric MG4 was added to the MG range midway through 2023.
Unlike the ZS and HS EVs which are modified versions of the respective petrol vehicles, MG4 is a dedicated EV and the first to use the innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.
MSP features rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution and thin battery technology.
MG4 comes in a choice of five variants: Excite 51 kWh, Excite 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 77 kWh Long Range and XPower 64 kWh.
The first four models have a single, rear-mounted motor, while XPower – the one we’re reviewing here – adds a front motor for all-wheel drive.
Driveaway prices now range from $39,990 for the RWD Excite 51 kWh through to $59,990 for the high-performance AWD XPower.
A sleek profile is topped by a two-tone roof and there is an active intake grille shutter – no need for an ugly radiator intrusion up front.
It rides on 18-inch alloys with aerodynamic covers, with LED rear lights, distinctive rear centre light bar and a twin-aero rear spoiler.
There is no specific badging to distinguish the XPower from the rest of the MG4 range, apart from the name being shown on the tinny orange brake caliper covers.
XPower also gets re-tuned suspension for 25 percent extra stiffness, beefier anti-roll bars front and rear, re-calibrated steering and torque vectoring.
INTERIOR
There’s little inside the XPower to distinguish it from the rest of the MG4 range.
Only the inclusion of a Track Mode feature activated from the touchscreen allows the driver to check lap and stage times, giving a clue to its performance alter ego.
The aforementioned Modular Scalable Platform creates good cabin and storage space, bearing in mind that it’s a compact hatchback and slightly smaller than Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.
The two-level boot floor caters for 363 litres with the rear seats in place and 1177
While the MG ZS and HS models follow the predictable and functional SUV styling, MG4 is easily the most attractive vehicle we’ve seen yet from the Chinese carmaker.
litres when folded.
XPower is the only MG4 variant to have electric motors for both the front and rear axles to provide the benefit of all-wheel drive.
All others have rearmounted motors powered by either 51 kWh (Excite), 64 kWh (Excite or Essence) or 77 kWh (Essence Long Range) batteries.
The dual-motor, all-wheel drive MG4 XPower uses the mid-range 64 kWh battery to produce 320kW (150 kW from the front motor and 170 kW from the rear).
This, together with 600Nm of torque, makes it the most powerful production MG in Australia to date, capable of 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.
Range is listed at 385km on the WLTP cycle. Not surprisingly that will drop down under aggressive driving.
There are four regenerative braking levels down to onepedal mode.
MG4 received the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating when tested last year.
Standard features include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, and electronic stability program, reversing camera, hill start assist with auto hold, automatic door unlocking and a collapsible steering column.
Also, standard is the MG Pilot
advanced driver assistance system which adds lane keep assist and departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, traffic jam assist, intelligent headlight control, speed assistance system and driver inattention alert.
Unfortunately, MG has followed the growing trend to switch various controls to the touchscreen, including the most commonly-used audio and air conditioning.
While it might suit the stylists it takes far too much of the driver’s attention away from the road ahead.
Interestingly, there’s a move underway in Europe where Euro NCAP are planning to deduct points where certain functions are not easily accessible via physical knobs and/or buttons.
Let’s hope that Australia’s ANCAP assessors follow that lead.
The first thing that you notice when you’re ready to set off in the MG4 is that there’s no starter button or ignition key.
Rather, the car is ready to go within a few seconds of the driver sitting down and once the ‘Ready’ light shows on the driver information screen, it’s simply a case of moving a circular knob from ‘P’ to either ‘D’ or “R’.
One of the most appealing features of all electric vehicles is the instant acceleration that can see them leap ahead of
MODEL RANGE:
MG4 EXCITE 51 $39,990
MG4 EXCITE 64 $44,990
MG4 ESSENCE 64 $46,990
MG4 LONG RANGE 77 $52,990
MG4 XPOWER AWD $59,990
NOTE: These are driveaway prices and include all government and dealer delivery charges.
the traffic from standstill.
The MG4 XPower raises the bar even further with its stunning 3.8-second 0-100km/h sprint.
The jury’s still out on whether the XPower meets the hot hatch pub test.
While it clearly ticks most of the boxes in terms of its spectacular acceleration and speed, it doesn’t provide the same driver input and feedback as its petrolpowered rivals.
For a start there’s no manual gearbox – well, no gearbox at all – which is such an important ingredient for the driving enthusiast.
Likewise, while silent running is a positive feature for most EV buyers, the XPower misses out on the characteristic hot hatch engine sound track.
Ride and handling, although very good, lacks the feel of established hot
hatches nor is it as balanced through corners.
SUMMING UP
Ever since the first of the new Chinese MGs arrived here in 2018, we’ve found ourselves cringing a bit when cornered by devotees of the classic British sportscars that carried that iconic badge for decades.
Not any more … because the MG4 in general, and the XPower in particular, can hold their own in any company.
With prices breaking through the key $40k barrier and range over 400km, depending on the variant, they open the EV market to a whole new customer base.
At just under $60k the XPower offers almost supercar performance at a fraction of the price.
But does it qualify as a hot hatch? We’d say no – not enough driving enjoyment.
WANGARATTA’S youth hub, Synergy, embraced the sequined energy of Taylor Swift on Monday afternoon, as it hosted a special screening of ‘The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version)’.
Those attending were encouraged to bring along friendship bracelets to swap, following the tradition of ‘Swifties’ across the globe.
The youth hub, situated at 29 Flanagan Street, will be open again after school on Monday, April 15, where youngsters aged 12 to 17 can find out more about joining Wangaratta’s FReeZA group, while the following Monday, April 22, will be a chance to play board games.
Come down to the Synergy Youth Hub at 29 Flanagan St, Yarrunga on Monday afternoons in April for a series of great activities.
15 April: FReeZA info day & sign up. This is an incredible opportunity for youth with an interest in music and live events. FReeZA lead the planning, development and delivery of music, cultural and recreational events in our community.
22 April: Board games night
29 April: Personnel Group info session & FREEZA catch-up. The Personnel Group assists individuals to find long-term, sustainable employment.
This program provides low-cost desexing for those in our community who hold a pension, concession, or health care and low-income card. The scheme also encourages responsible pet ownership by ensuring animals are microchipped and registered free of charge at the same time. Available now, until funding is exhausted.
For full terms and conditions and instructions on how to participate in the program please visit Council’s website or Customer Service desk.
Did you know that you can hire the Digital Hub? They have a conference room with camera and TV display for Teams/Zoom meetings and presentations, a kitchenette and lounge for breaks, plus co-working desks, PCs, MACs, and iPads for use. They are open to bookings from all organisations and groups, whether you need the full site or just a table.
For more details visit https://www.wangarattadigitalhub. com.au/
Each month we are showcasing the cool, quirky, and unique shopping spots across our region. From April to November 2024, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore our charming townships for a chance to win some awesome prizes.
Make Coiled Sculptures with Carmel Wallace
Saturday 4 May | 1pm - 3.30pm
Join artist Carmel Wallace in this workshop to create your own small scale coiled sculptural form. Carmel Wallace lives in Portland, Victoria, on Gunditjmara Country. Embracing sculpture, installation, and printmaking, she explores the roles art can play in strengthening connections to place and developing environmental awareness.
For more information and to book your place visit www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au
Application No
PlnApp23/209
Location 197 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta
Proposal Staged multi-lot subdivision, removal of native vegetation and creation of access to a Transport Zone 2.
These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Council will not decide these applications before 26 April 2024.
Application No
PlnApp24/048
Location 13-17 Garnet Avenue Wangaratta
Proposal Buildings and works for the construction of ten dwellings.
These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Council will not decide these applications before 30 April 2024.
Positions vacant For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers Synergy
Local Shop Hop’s first stop is Glenrowan. Pop into the amazing shops in Glenrowan for a bite to eat, a gift, or a little something for yourself. With every purchase at participating spots, you have a chance to win AMAZING prizes. Simply scan a QR code, and you’re in! More info here: https://bit.ly/3IZq8Xy
to download the position recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply.
www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au
Phone: 1300 365 003 BENALLA RURAL CITY COUNCIL
St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc
Have you ever thought about working in aged care but not sure? Come in for an informal meet and greet and tour of our facility. We would love to see you and show you what makes St Catherine’s a great place to work!
This will provide an opportunity for us to answer your questions and tell you about the benefits St Catherine’s offers. You may be very surprised. Ring Bec on 03 5721 2243 to organise a time to suit you.
$56.8316 per hour base rate
+ shift allowances + applicable penalty rates
Permanent Part Time Night Shift positions
Permeant Part Time Weekend Shifts
Attractive sign on bonus may be applicable!
St Catherine’s is a not for profit, private 72 bed aged care facility. Permanent part time positions available on set roster. Applicants must be committed to working in a caring team oriented environment.
Project Officer – Free from Violence
Part-Time (22.8 hours per week)
28 February 2027
We are seeking applications from suitably experienced and enthusiastic people for the position of Free from Violence - Project Officer.
The position is responsible for leading Council’s implementation of the Local Government Guide for preventing Family Violence and All Forms of Violence against Women. This is part of the Free from Violence Local Government Program 2024-2027.
The position has a variety of tasks where you will use your skills and experience to:
engage with stakeholders across Council to build capacity embedding a gender lens across all areas of the workplace and service delivery; and co-design and deliver community initiatives to support the prevention of family violence and all forms of violence against women.
Download an Employment Information Pack at www.benalla.vic.gov.au or obtain a pack from Manager People and Performance, Janine McMaster, telephone 03 5760 2600.
Applications addressing key selection close 5pm Tuesday 23 April 2024
For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Manager People and Performance, Janine McMaster 03 5760 2600.
Benalla Rural City Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Child Safe Organisation. www.benalla.vic.gov.au
Terms and conditions are in accordance with St Catherine’s Hostel Wangaratta Inc. (trading as St Catherine’s Hostel) ANMF and HSU Enterprise Agreement 2021.
Essential Criteria:
Desirable:
Position Descriptions are available from Reception Mon – Fri 9am to 5pm
For further information
contact Elizabeth Ibrom, Acting Director Clinical Services - (03) 5728 0316
Closing Dates: 19/04/2024
Are you our next team leader, case prac or project worker?
Are you looking for flexibility in your work days/hours?
Want to join a team that is passionate and committed to create change?
For more information, please call us on 03 5720 2201 or visit our website: www.nesay.com.au to access the position descriptions and find out the details on how to apply.
Applications close 5.00pm - 25 April 2024.
Dahlsens Mitre 10 are currently seeking applications for a Permanent Full-Time Account Manager based out of our Myrtleford Store. You will be responsible for championing service and selling to customers within the region. This is a hands-on role, combining customer relationship building, customer acquisition, quoting, ordering, special order pricing and purchasing and the general administration involved in looking after Trade customers.
For more information please contact Aiden Tabag, Recruitment Specialist 0419 162 772. To apply and full details on the position, please go to our Careers page at www.dahlsens.com.au
Qualified Fitter and Turner
Phone Guy 5721 2830 or email
info@jacoxengineering.com.au
FOR GENUINE SALE, the chance to purchase the complete package when it comes to heading off on the trip of a lifetime! The package includes a 2010 Toyota GX V8 trayback ute with extended cabin and steel and canvas canopy over rear tray, the ute has done a genuine 51,200kms, it has been fitted out with over $30,000 in extras, reg (1MP2DP). The caravan is a 2016 Jayco Silverline Outback, 21’6” in length, the Silverline was the top of the range in that model, it is fitted with all of the quality appliances you would expect in a van of this quality, it is also fitted with a queen size electric slide out bed, it has travelled approx 6000kms, all on bitumen surfaces, the van comes with over $10,000 worth of extras, it is a must see to believe what is included in this package. Would possibly sell the ute and van seperately, $150,000 negotiable, must sell. Ph 0407 218 028.
COATSWORTH, Marion Olive. 14/8/1932 - 9/4/2024
Devoted and dearly loved and loving wife of Alan (dec) for 71 years.
Loving and loved mother and mother-in-law of Andrew and Kylie, Jane and Andy, Gary and Cheryl, Sharon and Jim, and Robbie.
Loving and adored Grandmother and Great Grandmother.
Those we love don’t go away They stand beside us every day Unseen, unheard, But always near, Still loved, Still missed and Still so very dear.
PRITCHARD, Bryan. Thank you for your endless love, that will help me through each day. And thank you for the memories that will never fade away. You’re the man I loved and I was proud to be your wife, and every day, in some small way, I will celebrate your life.
And though it's sad to think about the way things were before, when we're reunited it will be forever more ~ Your loving wife Nancy.
PRITCHARD, Bryan. 18/1/1936 - 4/4/2024
Deep in my heart memories will be kept, To love and cherish and never forget. Tears in my eyes will wipe away, But the love in my heart is there to stay.
~ Your loving daughter Jenny and son-in-law Theo.
Loved Grandfather of Adrian, Chenara, Kerisha, Theonie, Chimene (dec) and J’Den, and great-grandfather to 9.
Clear
The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care are saddened by the passing of Marion Coatsworth who has been part of our community. We would like to pass on our deepest sympathy to her family and friends during this difficult time.
RYAN, David John.
Passed away peacefully April 9, 2024. Father of Matthew, James, Michelle and Gemma. The celebration of the life of David Ryan will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, April 19, 2024 commencing at 2pm. A private cremation will follow.
Donations in memory of David can be made to Northeast Palliative Care Unit online at https://givenow.com.au/nhw
HANNA, Lillian “Grace”. 3/9/1935 – 8/4/2024
Loved wife of Bill (dec 1981) and Alan (dec 2001).
David’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/ live-streaming/ Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
WALKER, Matthew Paul.
New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres. HOLDEN Vy Commordore 2003, car is mechanically A1 serviced and maintained regularly, very clean inside and out,
Steel cage to suit 6x4 trailer, asking $250
2’x2’x2’ bird cage, ask price $80
Forever loved mother of Wendy and James and mother-in-law of Kelvin and David. Cherished Grandma of Blair, Brianna, Maddy, Harvey and Remi. At rest in God’s Garden.
Dearly loved son of Robbie and Chris Walker. Our beautiful, beautiful boy. The pain in our hearts is immense knowing you are no longer in our lives.
~ Love always, Mum and Dad.
JACK Russell pups, 2 female, tan and white, 7 weeks old, vaccinated and microchipped, beautiful pups, $1250 each, source ID: MB247428, microchip numbers: 956000016590495, 956000016670613. Ph 0432 243 392.
POULTRY Auction (live coll), Sunday, April 21 at Wangaratta
cash or card payments accepted. Ph 0416 151 696, Metrys Auctions.
CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101
Contact Mario on 5721 8991 or at 24 Medowra Ave, Wangaratta
FIREWOOD,
The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care would like to pass on their condolences to the family and friends of Grace Hanna. Her passing has saddened the Illoura community.
O’DEA, Allan. The Staff and residents of Illoura Residential Aged Care are saddened by the recent passing of Allan O’Dea. We would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Allan during this difficult time.
WALKER, Matthew.
Dearly loved and dearly missed.
Brother to Chris and Angela, brother-in-law to Bart and adored Uncle to Logan, Dallas and Murray.
WALKER, Matthew Paul. Our much loved brother, brother-in-law and Uncle. Matt, your smile and generosity will be missed forever. We are devastated at losing you.
~ Love Adam, Kerrie, Arabella and Aurora.
WHITE, David George. 1940-2024
Loved son of Mary and George (both dec).
Brother of Howard, Robert (dec) and Jillian (dec).
When family chains are broken, we will meet again
Sympathy to all the family.
~ Howard and Kath.
Loved and treasured memories of you always lighting up any room with your fun, big smile, your laughs and cheeky words.
Love from us always.
~ Greggy Johnny, Jacq, Em, Mia, Billy and Uncle Peter.
HANNA
The celebration of the life of Grace Hanna will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, on Saturday, April 20, 2024 commencing at 10.30am.
Burial will follow at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
YOUNGER
The funeral service to honour the memory of Amanda Jane Younger will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, April 15, 2024 commencing at 10.30am.
Private cremation will follow the service.
Amanda’s service can be viewed via live stream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
In lieu of flowers, a donation made to Dementia Australia in memory of Amanda would be appreciated.
Donations can be made online at https://donate.dementia.org.au/memory
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
HOOPER, Robert. 1941 – 2024
Robert’s family would like to thank friends and extended family for their support and kindness during his 7 month hospitalisation and passing.
Thanks to the many doctors and nurses who care for him.
Thanks to Rev Glenys Gill and N J Todd for assisting us with his beautiful service.
Robert is now in God’s care. ~ Ellen and family.
HUGHES, Robert Charles “Bob”.
Please accept our heartfelt thanks to all the family and friends who attended our Dad’s funeral and also to those who sent cards, or flowers, phoned or supplied food and expressed kindness and sympathy. Thanks to the ambulance staff and all at Northeast Health who made Dad’s last days comfortable and pain free.
A special thanks to Glenn and his amazing team at Mason Park Funerals, your patience and understanding were much appreciated.
We would also like to especially thank Christine Capewell, the celebrant who took the time to know who Dad was as a person, this showed in your testimonial at the service.
Please accept this as our sincere thanks.
VINCENT, Ronald Brett.
Interred at Tatura Lawn Cemetery, March 22, 2024.
Dawn, Angela, Julie and Brett wish to sincerely thank everyone who attended Ron’s funeral, sent cards and telephoned. Your support in our time of grief was gratefully appreciated. Thank you. classifieds@nemedia.com.au
CATT, Susan Coralie. In loving memory of my darling wife.
Passed away April 11, 1989.
Aged 40 years. A very special lady. Today our thoughts are with you, But that is nothing new, We thought about you yesterday, And the day before that too.
With aching heart and tears unseen, Wishing your absence was only a dream. To hear your voice and see your smile, Just to sit and talk awhile.
To be together in the same old way, Would be my dearest wish on this day. Loved and sadly missed every day.
- Yours forever Kevin.
CATT, Susan Coralie. Passed away April 11, 1989.
A mother truly is a mother for life. Behind our smile there is many a tear, For a wonderful mother we love so dear.
BOAK, Garrett.
Loved and remembered.
April 13, 2017.
~ Love Dad, Mum and Isaac.
As time goes by the emptiness grows, We miss you Mum, More than anyone knows.
Our Mum’s memory will be with us forever. We love and miss you Mum.
- Karen, Allison, Amee and Mark.
CATT, Susan Coralie.
In loving memory of Mum, Nanny Catt. Passed away
April 11, 1989. No matter how I spend my day, No matter what I do, No morning dawns, Or evening falls, Without a thought of you. In our hearts now and forever. All our love, Karen and Brayden. xoxo.
HEATH, Maree.
April 12, 2023.
Cherished Mum and Gar of Chris, Brendan, Vanessa, Jasmine, Alexis, Ben, Tully and Norah. Loved and remembered always.
JONES, Lynette Margaret (Dyer).
April 13, 2017
“Hi our darling girl”. If roses were in Heaven, Lord please pick one, place it in my daughter’s hand. Tell her it was from all of us. Remembering you is easy, we do that every day, it’s the heartache that never goes away.
RIP our darling, till we meet again.
~ Love Mum; David, Jan and all the family; xoxo
LAVINGDALE, Patricia “Trish”.
April 2, 2011
Miss you and love you forever.
~ Robert.
Phone:
IT was back to table tennis at the Oxley hall last Monday night, when 12 enthusiastic goers arrived bats in hand to ‘gather round’ the tables and throw themselves into the many singles and doubles matches contested.
‘Man about town’ Manni Poulos was all revved up when he and Don ‘is good’ Heath paired up against the ‘intrepid caravanning nomads’ Cheryl and Gary Coad in a swashbuckler that went on and on for what seemed an eternity.
Final scores came as no surprise – one pair won the tie-breaker.
A master-class contest was delivered when ‘Doc’ Martin Butcher and ‘bat whisperer’ Graham Stephens threw out the challenge to
Saturday, April 6
Mens 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade Winner: Rodney Sebire 37.
B Grade Winner: Gary Walder 36.
C Grade Winner: Bohdi Marjanovic 37.
Ball Winners: Dave Anderson 37, Colin Braden 36, Steve Fisher 36, Attila Kungl 36, Joe Marjanovic 35, Alex Jones 34, Russel Stone 34, Jack Stamp 34, Gary Dinsdale 34, Michael Lugg 34, Neville Hogan 34.
NTP: 4th Gavin Braybrook, 8th Mark Drage, 13th Ken Beitzel, 17th Ian Dinsdale.
Saturday, April 6
Ladies Stableford
Winner: Libby Smith 30.
Ball Winners: Francis Duffy 29.
NTP: 13th Libby Smith.
Sunday, April 7
Stableford mixed
A Grade: Aaron Kungl 38.
B Grade: Hayden Rogers 36.
Ball Winners: Matthew Nunn (2) 35, Jacob Schonafinger 35, Rick Harnwell 34, Adrian Speziale 34.
Last weeks S9
Shirt: Brian Thomas 23.
Aroma Deli: Mark Drage 21.
2 balls: Michael Monro 20.
NTP: 4th Glenn Ryan, 8th Glenn Ryan, 13th Aaron Kungl, 17th Michael Cordier.
Tuesday, April 9
Ladies 18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Erica Lombard 36.
Ball Winners: Lee Freeland (2) 32, Bruna McDonald 31, Melody Adams 31.
NTP: 8th Pauline Mercer, 13th Mary Jones.
April 10
Mens 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade: Hamish Lewis +1.
B Grade: Bill O’Brien c/b from Brian Wallace +3.
C Grade: Steve Richards +4.
Ball Winners: Brian Wallace 2 Balls +3, Martin Van Rhee +1, Keith Moorehead 0, Pat Grady 0, Laurie Miller 0, Alex Gibbs 0, Dave Anderson 0, Michael Cordier -1, Peter Geldens -1, John Fitzgerald -1, Ian Harbourd -1.
NTP: 4th Nigel Cooper, 8th Pat Grady, 13th Martin Van Rhee, 17th Alex Jones.
WGC Competitions: Week ending
April 7
April 2
Women’s Stroke
Winner: Julie McInnes 70
Nett.
Runner Up: Sue McCall 71 C/B Net.
Ball Winners: Jan Hill, Lesley Anderson, Dianne Phillips.
NTP: 9th Julie McInnes, 11th
‘tearabout’ Janet Heath and ‘first man on the scene’ Adam Bosley.
With every shot in the book – and then some – being displayed in both attack and defence, it was on for young and old from the first ping of the ball.
But with Janet draping herself over the table for the short balls and Adam taking care of the long drives, they took the game right up to, and away from, Martin and Graham to come home with a 21-19 victory.
When the ‘teacher who tortoise’ Alison Stephens paired up with new girl on the block Phoebe Morgan to take on Phoebe’s dad, Richard, and ‘older but not wiser’ June Uebergang, it was a battle of the brave. While speed and accuracy were in
short supply, perseverance and endeavour were top of the class, resulting in many points requiring many strokes to determine the winner.
And although Richard and June appeared to have victory in their hands, Alison and Phoebe stuck to the task to pinch a very narrow win.
Following the night’s social competition, everyone gathered around for a cuppa and supper, and the promise, “we’ll get you next week.”
Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are most welcome to join the group which meets every Monday night, beginning at 7pm, at the Oxley hall - BYO bat, $2 entry, and a small plate to share.
Glenda Dodson, 13th Julie McInnes, 16th Glenda Dodson.
Wednesday, April 3
Men’s Competition
18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Trevor Trimble 38 Points.
Runner Up: Phillip Winnell 36 Points.
Ball Winners: Ethan Bell, Riley Forde, Michael Webster, Trevor Cooper, Arnold Sparks, Maurie Braden.
NTP: 4th Craig Donoghue, 7th Drew Winter, 9th Rod Moyle, 11th Rod Moyle, 13th Dion Ploegmakers, 16th Dean Campagna.
9 Hole Stableford Winner: John Walker 19 Points.
Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 17 C/B Points.
Ball Winners: Bob Haynes. Keith Fleet.
April 4 - Women’s Stableford: 18 Hole Winner: Maggie Ray 38 Points.
18 Hole Runner Up: Ros Gormly 36 C/B Points.
Ball Winners: Jill Halbwidl, Dianne
Phillips, Sue McCall, Glenda Dodson, Jenny Kerr.
NTP: 4th Sue McCall, 9th Sue McCall, 11th Sue McCall.
9 Hole Winner: Candice Jones 17 Points.
Saturday, April 6
Men’s April Monthly Medal - Stroke
A Grade Winner: Ian Rundell 67 C/B Points.
A Grade Runner Up: Trevor Cooper 67 C/B Points.
B Grade Winner: Neil McKinnon 70 C/B Point.
B Grade Runner Up: Glen Seymour 70 Points.
Ball Winners: Drew Winter, Michael Webster, Peter Rundell, Jason McCoy, Darren Burns, Simon McKay, Jeremy Winter, Robert Holloway, Matt Fischer, Michael Banister.
NTP: 4th John Southwell, 7th Trevor Clark, 9th Jason McCoy, 11th Michael Webster, 13th Jason McCoy, 16th Jason McCoy.
McDonalds Birdie: Michael Webster, Ethan Bell, Chris Martens.
KFC Birdie: Ethan Roach, Glen Seymour.
Secret 6: Darren Oats.
Raffle Winner: Glen Seymour.
Sunday, April 7 - 18 Hole Medley
Winner: Kurt Schubert 35 Points.
Runner Up: Ashley Clayton 33 CB Points.
TARRAWINGEE Golf Club Results
Saturday, April 6
The members played for the April monthly medal and this was won by Lindsay Steer 95/22/73, the daily winner was Mark Nolan 80/12/68.
Ball winner was Pete Nolan.
Nearest the pins: 2nd Peter Scoullar, 4th Angelo Garraffo.
Golf to be played on Saturday, April 13 will be the first round of the singles KO, those members not involved in the KO on the day will be playing a stableford event.
There will also be an event for the ladies on the day.
Hit off times will be 11:30am for a
THE Wangaratta Golf Club held its Women’s Foursomes Championship on Tuesday with the defending champions Glenda Dodson and Maggie Ray taking out the coveted championship with a gross score of 91.
This was after a sudden death play-off against runners up Jan Hill and Julie McInnes also with a gross 91.
The championship, sponsored by Lifetime Solutions, was played in beautiful sunny autumn weather.
The handicap winners were Lorraine Adams and Sue Miller with a net 71 and sponsored by Marie McLeish.
WINNERS: Maggie Ray (left) and Glenda Dodson won the Wangaratta Golf Club’s Women’s Foursomes Championship.
12:00pm noon start.
The Tarrawingee Golf Course will be closed on Sunday, April 14 due to the third round of Section 1 Pennant being played at our course.
Golf to be played on Saturday the 20th is the second round of the Singles KO, golf will be also arranged for those members not playing in the KO.
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.
Tarra Ladies
A good roll up of Tarrawingee ladies played a stroke event on Tuesday, April 9.
The winner was Lucia Dapos with Lorraine Grenfell coming a close second.
Di McLaughlin had the least putts for the round and Lorraine Grenfell was nearest the pin on the 13th.
Next week will see the continuation of the Championship rounds.
AFTER sitting last week out with the bye, Wangaratta Rovers will take to the ground for the first time in the 2024 AFL NEB Female Football League.
The Rovers will take on Wodonga Raiders on Saturday at Biralee Park, with the open age game set to take place under lights after the senior O&M clash.
The under 14 and under 17 squads will begin their season at Biralee Park on Sunday morning.
Open age co-coach Kate Burns said the entire squad was raring to get stuck into the season.
“It feels like a very late start but that’s alright –we’re up and we’re ready to go,” she said.
“Things are going really well, we’ve had an excellent preseason, a long preseason, but the players have really loved it and put in a lot of work.
“We’ve got just over 30 permanent open age players, that’s about the number we’d need to feel comfortable - a couple more would be good, but you wouldn’t want to go into a season with less than 30, so we’re looking pretty good in that respect.”
The Rovers will field a strong side in their opening match with Raiders, combining established names at the club with new faces.
“We’ll have a total of six players play their first
game for the club, that’s really exciting, that’s a mixture of experience players from elsewhere and firsttime footballers,” Burns said.
“The players who are playing their first ever game of football, you wouldn’t think so - it’s amazing what they’ve been
able to do in terms of the skills of the game.
“One of the things that we love is we’re now seeing our underage players start to come through the system, so we’ve got another one of our under 17s from last year who will come up and make her debut for the seniors, which is pretty ex-
citing for everyone, that’s Alana McKenna.” Led on-field by a strong leadership group with co-captains Carolyn Sammon and Emma Gosbell, as well as Jacinta Findlay and Charli Simmonds, the Rovers will take the fight to last season’s open age runners up Raiders.
“We’re improving, we’re really happy with how we’re tracking, but we also expect all of the other clubs and teams are going to be improving as well,” Burns said.
“We go into this with a really open mind, we expect it will be a really hard challenge, Raiders have
By NATHAN DE VRIESAFTER months of training and patient waiting, junior footballers across the region will be back in action this weekend, with round one of the 2024 Wangaratta and District Junior Football League.
The Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16 competitions will kick off across Satu rday and Sunday, with teams entered into the competition from as far as Mansfield, Benalla, and across to Myrtleford and Bright.
WDJFL operations manager
Matthew Elliott said it was a challenge organising the fixture, but everything was in place for the first siren.
“The fixture was presenting some challenges because we don’t have the same number of teams in each grade,” he said.
“We’ve got a 10-team competition in the under 12s – Benalla has got two sides – and you move across to the under 14s and it becomes a 12-team competition with the entry of the two Mansfield teams.
“In the under 17s there are 10 teams in the competition as well, like the under 12s.
always put very competitive teams up on the park, they’ve been in the top two for the last several years along with Lavington.
“No matter who they’ve got out there, it’s going to be a tough game, but we’re just excited, we’re ready to see where we are in relation to other teams.”
“There were some challenges trying to cater for clubs being at the same venue on the same day, but we’ve worked it out pretty well now.
“Everything’s in place and ready to go.”
Elliott said the competition was in an incredibly strong position, with high rates of participation across many clubs.
“We continue to have kids turning up at all clubs from the earliest stage of under 12s,” he said.
“Under 12 numbers per club is sitting in the high 20s which is really great to see, because that builds the base going forward to under 14s and under 17s as well.
“It helps keep the club very strong and viable in terms of numbers.
“There are lots of kids out there who want to play, and the clubs are doing a great job facilitating that for them, they’ve been really supportive of the league as well, which is great.”
The 2024 Wangaratta and District Junior Football League fixture can be found at www. playhq. com/afl/org/wangaratta-and-district-junior-footballleague/98414cce.
THE senior hockey season began with a great start from all four teams of the Wangaratta Dragons last Saturday.
The division three Lady Dragons were on fire for their first up, playing at Wangaratta.
On field they played as a new team but powered the field as if they have been playing together for years.
Lucy Dwyer and Amelia Bongers scored the two goals defeating Falcons Black.
The goals were scored as a team with the forwards getting the ball to the strikers, while defenders did an amazing job in the back not allowing the Falcons score a goal.
With expectations high after such an amazing season last year, the division three Dragon men took to the field with something to prove and played with great intensity against a strong Norths team from Albury.
With some new players in the team and juniors coming from the under 16s, the new-look men’s team did not disappoint.
With outstanding midfield play from Ollie Chambers and some rock-solid defence from Michael McMurrie, the div three men made a stand on their home ground and sent Norths back to Albury defeated 4-1.
Sunday saw an early start for the newly formed Dragons’ division two men’s team which took to the field in Albury.
The men were excited to start their season and came out strong, and with goals from Andrew Groves and Isaac Cameron, they went into the half-time break up by a goal.
Although even with valiant saves from goalie Alex James and some strong midfield plays between Alex Ellem and Charles Webster, the men could not hold back the relentless Norths attacks and conceded the defeat.
The first women’s round of division two hockey saw the Lady Dragons up against reigning premiers Norths in Albury.
With four new faces in the team, it didn’t take long to settle into the game.
WANGARATTA Rangers
women’s softball players
Jessica White, Katie Maiden, and Candice Jones showcased their talent and tenacity as they represented the Albury Wodonga representative softball team in the recent Victorian Open State Championships held last weekend in Berwick.
The trio’s stellar performance contributed significantly to their team’s impressive run throughout the tournament.
Taking the field with determination, the team embarked on a rigorous schedule, playing a total of four games on Saturday.
Their campaign kicked off with a dominant display against Glen Eira Moorabbin, securing a convincing 10-4 victory.
The momentum continued to build as the team faced against Melbourne, delivering a resounding 20-2 triumph.
Jessica White stood out with her formidable batting prowess, while her defensive skills at first base added solidity to the team’s performance.
Katie Maiden showcased her defensive prowess, holding down the fort at second base with unwavering resolve.
The subsequent matchup against Keilor Park saw the team deliver another emphatic victory, triumphing with a
There was plenty of great attacking and teamwork across the field, in particular from Isla Ruhe-Crofts and Maria Feldmann, and it wasn’t long before Emma Gall scored the first goal of the season.
The first half was a well-balanced game between the two teams, which saw Wangaratta lead 2-1.
The second half saw the game open up with Wangaratta scoring another three quick goals to Norths’ one goal.
With 30 seconds remaining in the game Wangaratta managed to sneak one last goal in, making the final score 6-2.
The club has seen an increase in membership at both the senior and junior level, with a number of people on Saturday playing for the first time or returning to hockey.
It’s not too late to try hockey out – men’s training is 6.00pm on Tuesday and Thursday, juniors from 4.30pm and women’s from 6.00 pm at the synthetic pitch at Cathedral College.
commanding scoreline of 17-2.
Despite a valiant effort, the team settled for a hard-fought 5-5 draw against Frankston, with Candice Jones snaring four catches in the centre outfield and bringing in a run for the team.
Nonetheless, their impressive performance secured them a commendable third position on the ladder, setting the stage for further success on Sunday.
Sunday dawned with renewed determination as the team prepared to face off against Dandenong.
Despite a spirited effort, they were met with a 7-1 loss in a closely contested match.
Undeterred, they bounced back with resilience, clinching a well-deserved 8-4 victory over Casey.
The stage was set for a thrilling rematch against Dandenong in the grand final.
The Rangers fought tooth and nail, showcasing their skill and determination, however, despite their best efforts, they fell short, conceding a 5-9 defeat in a fiercely contested encounter.
WANGARATTA Rovers Female Football Club and Wangaratta College Junior Football Club are among the more than 250 local footy clubs around Australia to receive a share of $1 million as the first round of funding for the Telstra Footy Country Grants program is released.
Local clubs across all states and territories will benefit from grants of up to $20,000 per club to strengthen the base of grassroots footy nationally.
Rovers Female Football Club received $1300 towards playing kits for their new under 12 side, while College JFC received $8650 towards a mobile electronic scoreboard for use at the Barr Reserve grounds.
With the core purpose to aid volunteers, diversify and broaden participation and improve experiences clubs offer, funds from the Telstra Footy Country Grants will go to the heart of where local clubs need it most.
From implementing Indigenous guernseys and pride rounds to promote inclusivity and awareness, to acquiring an electronic point of sales system or new ground markers to ease the load on volunteers, Telstra Footy Country Grants will help sustain local clubs for the future.
AFL executive general manager of game development
Rob Auld said he was delighted the first round of funding was being distributed into communities.
“To know that more than 250 clubs will share in more than $1 million in the first round of funding for Telstra Footy Country Grants is incredible and it’s exciting to know this is just the beginning of the four-year program,” Auld said.
“Local clubs not only underpin the strength of our foundation and growth of our game, they are the heart and soul of communities where people can find a sense of belonging and connection, so it’s imperative we support clubs and communities.
“Our team, including our state and territory associations, have worked closely with clubs across the country to ensure all the funds are being optimised and we’re generating positive outcomes for as many clubs as possible.
Reflecting on their performance, the Wangaratta Rangers women’s softball team can take immense pride in their achievements at the Victorian Open State Championships. Their exemplary display of teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the softball community.
As they return home, they carry valuable experience and lessons learned that will continue to inspire them in the seasons to come.
“I’d like to once again thank Telstra for their support of grassroots footy and this program - we still have three more rounds to distribute this year and we encourage clubs to visit play.afl to find out more and apply.”
The Telstra Footy Country Grants program builds on the 2023 announcement by the AFL Commission to enshrine 10 per cent of all football revenue into AFL Game Development initiatives for community football support and growth.
Round two of Telstra Footy Country Grants is open until Friday, April 19.
Clubs looking to make the most of this funding opportunity can get in touch with the AFL NEB club development lead at chandan. kulkarni@aflneb.com.au.
THE reigning premiers will face a true challenge for the crown this weekend, when Greta’s A grade squad head across to the Kennell to take on Tarrawingee.
The Blues remain undefeated heading into round three, with an average margin from their two wins of just over 36 goals, but Tarrawingee may have their number.
The Bulldogs have been strong performers in finals for the past few seasons, and look to have gone to another level this season with two wins to their name.
Greta coach Loren McClounan said her side had continued on from their flag winning efforts in previous years and were confident in their ability to perform.
“The start of the season has been great for us,” she said.
“We’ve had a great couple of first games.
“It feels like everything we’ve been working on is coming together nicely.
“What’s been working well is everyone has been playing their role on the court.
“Everyone has a job to do on their opponent, and when we all do that it allows us to be really competitive.”
Gathercole said she and her squad always enjoyed taking on Tarrawingee, and said this week-
end was sure to produce another cracking game of netball.
“It’s always great to play Tarra, I’m looking forward to a hard, competitive game of netball,” she said.
“It’s hard to tell how we stack up against Tarrawingee until we play them really - we matched up well against them last year, but things change every year.
“I know they’ll be tough, so I’m keen to see what their team is like and how we go against them.
“I think the big match up will be Tarra’s attack and our defence.
“Kaylee (Allan) is a key goal scorer for them and we need to make sure we find a good match up on her.”
In other matches around the region, both King Valley and Goorambat will be angling to secure their first wins of the season when they go head-to-head at the Goorambat Recreation Reserve, and the Moyhu Hoppers will be up against a rested and ready Bonnie Doon outfit at Moyhu.
Bright and Benalla All Blacks will battle it out at Benalla hoping to get their seasons underway, and Whorouly will look to continue momentum on their brand new courts over North Wangaratta.
Netball action commences from 9.30am on Saturday, with the A grade matches set for a 2.15pm start.
■ From back page
“We had two really good battles with them last year – we spoke about that this week, Whorouly will play similar to Moyhu in that they attack the footy, and there’s always a bit of spice in the game as well.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge, and no doubt Whorouly will be buoyed by their win on the weekend.”
Whorouly coach Lachy Moore said he was looking forward to testing his squad against the Hawks.
“I’m pretty excited, I consider North Wangaratta a bit of a rival over the last couple of years, with the after the siren dilemma which happened last year, and a few close bouts,” he said.
“We’re around the same mark, both up and coming.
“They’re coming off a loss so they’re going to be pretty hungry to get one back, and I want to keep the wins flowing.”
In other round three matches, Benalla All Blacks hosts a strong Bright squad, the Roos head across to Goorambat, Moyhu plays Bonnie Doon with the Bombers coming off the bye, and Tarrawingee takes on Greta at home.
By NATHAN de VRIES
DESPITE sitting with no points from their first two matches, King Valley are confident they have what it takes to be competitive in the Ovens and King league.
Their position at eighth on the ladder is incredibly deceptive, given the combined margin from their first two matches, against Milawa and Tarrawingee, is just 11 points.
Senior co-coach Anthony Ciancio said the squad had identified the areas they fell short in during the first fortnight of competition, and were hard at work on the track to rectify it.
“We’ve obviously gone down in our first two games, but to be able to pull it apart has given us some clear direction with where we need to head in terms of where we need to improve,” he said.
“Efficiency for us over the first two weeks probably hasn’t been a strength of ours, so just looking particularly at our movement forward as well as some forward entry drills and practice is where we see a lot of our time’s going to be this week leading into Goorambat.
“We’re looking at the way we enter our forward 50, as well as some defensive structures.
“Tarrawingee well and truly beat us at the source on the weekend, knowing they had a few quality mids, which is something we were more so reactive to on the weekend.”
The Roos head to the Bat Cave this Saturday to face the similarly winless Goorambat, and Ciancio is expecting a true fight.
“Being 0-2 at senior level, we’re
still confident,” he said.
“Hopefully starting this weekend against Goorambat, it’ll be a really tough contest, knowing that Goorambat are one of the teams which has really improved since last year, particularly on their home deck, they’re a hard team to beat.
“We’ve trained this week with a big contest coming up for us on Saturday.
“Hopefully we can put on a bit of a spectacle across the football and netball for the King Valley and Goorambat communities to come out and have a watch.”
Ciancio said his midfield had really stepped up so far, with former best and fairest winner Conner Shanley and captain Sam Evans proving their mettle in both hit-outs this season.
“Having Conner back was a really big win for us, in his first two games he’s started from where he left off a couple of years ago at a senior level,” he said.
“He’s spending the majority of time in the middle, as well as pinchhitting forward, which has been really great.
“Our skipper Sam Evans has started the season really well, but in saying that, complementing that, we’ve had Dylan Browne come out from Magpies – his last quarter against Tarrawingee, when we were up against it and Tarrawingee had a fair few repeat forward 50 entries, he really stood up and put forward what he could do at senior level, which was really exciting.”
King Valley heads to Goorambat this Saturday, with the reserve fixture set for 12pm and the seniors from 2pm.
A WIN is a must for Wangaratta when they meet Wodonga under lights at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday.
After going winless from their first two games to start the season, an 0-3 start would make finishing top three an uphill battle.
The Dogs will be no easy task having pencilled their first win for the season in with a 15-point victory over Myrtleford last weekend.
Magpies coach Ben Reid said it’s an important game for his group.
“It’s a big game for us,” Reid said.
“I feel like all games are big for us at the moment
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
but this is a really important game. “Last week we played well in patches but then went away from it so the challenge for us is to put 120 minutes of good footy together.
“Some of that’s because of the opposition but a lot of it is because of us – we’re going to have a real focus on our pressure and contest work and hopefully get going from there.”
Wodonga’s accuracy in front of goals has been way-
ward, kicking 7.19 against Myrtleford, while they booted 4.14 in their round one loss to Yarrawonga.
“They haven’t been accurate in front of goals so I don’t think their results are a true reflection of the way they’re playing,” Reid said.
“They’re generating a lot of shots so we’re under no illusions that they’re going to be a tough side and they beat us in this exact game under lights last year.
“They’ve got a lot of players in their low 20s who are only getting better with time, guys like Josh Mathey, Isaac Cassidy and Noah Spiteri are all looking to go up a level.
“Wodonga likes to find a mark and get overlap run so they’re a quality side that we respect.”
Wangaratta are set to welcome Jackson Clarke back from a foot injury he sustained on July 8 of last year after the star midfielder made a successful return through the reserves last weekend.
Clarke was arguably the competition’s best player when he was struck down with injury in the round 12 clash against Yarrawonga.
“Jackson Clarke will come back in which is really exciting, he’ll add a lot to our midfield,” Reid said.
“Cam Barrett might also return, we’ve missed him off half-back over the past few weeks.
“While we’ll get some good players back, we just need players winning their positions and we haven’t had enough boys doing that.”
OAKFM Player of the Year
votes:
Nth Alb v Wang: Nth Albury 5 Tim Broomhead, 4 Jackson Weidemann, 3 Nathan Dennis, 2 Cayden Winter 1 Archer Gardiner .
Rovers v Cor Ruth: 5 Lochie O’Brien, 4 Will Christie, 3 Sam Dunstan (CR), 2 Sam Cattapan 1 Alex McCarthy.
WANGARATTA
Rovers starrecruit Lochie O’Brien is loving the start of his Ovens and Murray career.
Two games in, O’Brien and the Hawks are off to a flier winning matches against Wangaratta and Corowa-Rutherglen and now face Wodonga Raiders at Birralee Park.
O’Brien said he’s enjoying his time at the Rovers.
“The club’s been great and I’ve really appreciated the inclusion of my family especially,” O’Brien said.
“I spoke before the season about looking forward to the community side of footy like Thursday night dinners and functions and that side of things has been great.
“My parents are loving the club as well and I feel like I’m starting to adjust to footy in the O&M.
“I’m starting to understand the significance of the rivalry between us and Wangaratta and while it’s not in my blood I could tell how important it is by the reactions of some of the old players around the club.”
The former Carlton winger had the ball on a string in the Hawks win over Corowa-Rutherglen, racking up 42 touches, seven clearances, 12 marks and 14 score involvements in a best on ground display.
“The skill level has been high which I’ve been really impressed with,” O’Brien said.
“The speed’s slower than the top level which you’re going to expect but I’m enjoying that part of it.
“As a team we’re playing some good footy, we were excellent in round one against the Maggies and then last weekend, no disrecpect to Corowa because it’s incredible where they’ve come from, but we probably let ourselves down by not putting them away.
“Instead of playing that forward half game against them we ended up playing transition footy from our back half so we reviewed that heavily and will be hoping to get back to that round one style on Saturday.”
O’Brien admitted he’s had to adjust to the style of the O&M.
“The biggest thing for me is that
this type of footy is more instinctive which I’ve actually enjoyed,” he said.
“At times you think you’re in a good spot because you’re used to playing a system-based game like it is in the AFL but then you don’t get the ball, O&M’s a lot more unpredictable.
“It’s more free flowing though and I’m keen to get my run and dash up and going a bit more because that’s what Rovers got me in to do.”
Coming straight off an AFL list O’Brien’s knowledge of the game is as good as anyone’s and he said he’s enjoyed offering advice to players at the Hawks.
“I said to everyone that if anyone wants some help or advice to reach out,” he said.
“A lot of the younger boys have reached out which has been great to see, Alex McCarthy has been one I’ve been working closely with.
“I feel like he’s going to go from strength to strength as the season goes on and he’s only at the beginning of his senior career so it’s great to see he wants to get better.
“He’s based in Melbourne too because he moved down for uni so it’s been good to be in contact a lot - our Melbourne group trains at Victoria Park and it’s always interesting having us at one end and a bunch of dogs running around the other.
“The coaching element is something I want to try and progress further down the track.”
The Hawks take on Wodonga Raiders this weekend who beat Lavington by a goal in round one but were smashed by league juggernaut Albury by 90 points in round two.
“I’ve watched a bit of vision of Raiders and it’s been hard to understand their midfield because they had their VFL boys (Tom Phillips and Seb Quirk) in last weekend,” O’Brien said.
“I think for us we’ll take a strong understanding of Cam Ellis-Yolmen in and make sure we don’t allow him to do what he wants.
“They’ve got some youth like us so I think forward half pressure will take us a long way.”
ROUND THREE: Katie Dean and Wangaratta hosts Wodonga on Saturday.
Melissa Beattie
IN the O&M netball this weekend Wangaratta hosts Wodonga, while Rovers take on Wodonga Raiders at Birralee Park.
The Magpies have started their season on a winning note defeated Wangaratta Rovers in the derby, followed by North Albury last weekend.
After finishing the past few seasons at the tail-end of the ladder, Wodonga have shown massive improvement beating the highly touted Myrtleford last weekend, while they fell to premiership contenders Yarrawonga by 11 goals in round one.
“We definitely won’t be taking them lightly, especially after their win against Myrtleford,” Wangaratta coach Shea Cunningham said.
“Wodonga probably haven’t been able to win those games over the past few seasons so that extra year under their young side’s belt seems to have done them well.
“They’re playing with confidence and we’re going to have to be ready on Saturday if we’re going to beat them.”
However, with a combined winning margin of six goals, Wangaratta will be praying their match up against the Bulldogs will be an easier watch.
“The score lines aren’t something we’re necessarily happy with but at the same time we’re not too worried about it,” Cunningham said.
“The competition’s got a lot tighter this year and last year’s bottom sides have improved so the gaps narrowed.
“Our group is so resilient and don’t panic in stressful situations so when the game is close the girls will always back themselves to get the job done and they’ve done that to start the season.”
Bulldogs goal-attack Lily McKimmie starred in her side’s win with 29 goals and will need to be monitored by the Magpies defence.
Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers face the in-form Raiders who have started their season in ridiculously good fashion.
After knocking off the defending premiers Lavington by a convincing 16 goals in round one, they followed that by toppling Albury by 10 goals in round two.
Club spirit alive and well in the O&M
THERE was no shortage of passionate football and netball fans attending the O&M clash between Wangaratta Rovers and Corowa-Rutherglen at the WJ Finlay Oval last Saturday.
WANGARATTA’S senior women’s soccer side will look to carry momentum from their 6-0 win last weekend into this Sunday’s clash with Melrose FC away from home.
After a loss in the midweek FA Cup competition to Diamonds, the Lady Devils dominated the park in the rematch to cruise to second on the ladder with a 2-0 record.
Coach Terry Masters said the squad had started to gel really well and were playing extremely exciting soccer.
“We’re starting to not just belt the ball long, we’re starting to use our midfield,” he said.
“We’re still got a fair bit of improvement, but we’ve improved on the Albury City game, we’ve improved on the midweek game, we’ve just got to keep that going.
“I think (last) Thursday showed, it’s the first time they’ve all played together, and you have to get used to people’s strengths and weaknesses, there are certain players who like the ball in certain positionsthat’s all going to improve over the next few weeks.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
“It also means we can start to work on those sorts of things, formation and structure during the week.
“We’ve got a base now of where we’re at and where we want to get to.”
The Lady Devils will have their hands full this weekend with a very promising Melrose outfit, who are also undefeated and through to the FA Cup semi-finals.
“It’s another game where I don’t know too much about the opposition, but I believe they went quite well last year, so it’ll probably be another tough match,” Masters said.
“We’ll see where we’re at, and if we play like we did last Sunday we should go very close to getting the win.
“We’ve got a chance of certainly finishing in the top four.
“Once you get halfway through the season you’ve played ever yone and you’ll find out where you sit.
“From what I’ve seen, we’ve got a handy bunch of
girls.
“We’ve had a good start, two wins and the bye, and we’ll go into a spell of supposedly the next level teams - we’ve got Melrose, then Boomers, so it’s a fortnight to see where we sit against the competition.”
The reserves squad will be angling for their second victory of the season, following their 2-4 loss to Diamonds on the weekend.
The Lady Devils take to the ground at Melrose Park this Sunday, with the division two match beginning from 9.50am ahead of the seniors’ hit-out at 11.50am.
Meanwhile, after a disappointing 5-1 loss to Wodonga Diamonds last Sunday, Wangaratta City men will be hoping to bounce back against Melrose.
The Devils meet the seventh placed side at Melrose Park who are 1-1 along with a draw to start their 2024 campaign.
Melrose have showed promise though drawing 4-4 with Cobram in round two, while they downed Albury City 2-1. Their only blemish came against Boomers when they fell 2-0.
DANIEL Sharrock and Wangaratta will be desperate for victory when they meet Wodonga at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday evening. The Magpies have started the season 0-2.
■ Story: Page 32
Whorouly hosts North Wangaratta this weekend in what’s sure to be a round three WhlhNhWhikdih’bdhblbelter
SATURDAY’S clash between North Wangaratta and Whorouly at the Lions’ Den is sure to be a fiery contest, as both sides seek to establish themselves as legitimate finals contenders.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
few bruised egos, a few still hurting from the result, but other than that we’ve got a full bill of health,’ he said.
“All adding up to a sixpoint loss, it’s a bit of a hard one to take, to be honest.
Saturday, and they’re going to be pretty determined to make amends for it this Saturday, that’s for sure.”
ratta had actually won by a single point.
North Wangaratta coach Steve Manning said his side was eager to bounce back from last weekend’s rough result.
“There were probably a
The Hawks fell a goal short against Moyhu on Saturday, and will be eager to rectify their mistakes, while the Lions are up and about and looking to improve on their 63-point victory over Benalla.
“We let ourselves down in the second quarter, to Moyhu’s credit they fought really hard to get back in the contest, and the boys struggled to regain their composure a little bit towards half-time, they made it really difficult for us to get back into it.
Thursday
“We’re positive in the way we started the game, positive in the way we clawed our way back, but unfortunately we let ourselves down when it mattered.
“The boys need to respond, that’s going to be the challenge now - I feel like the boys have taken the lesson on from
The last time the Hawks made the trip to Whorouly, the match ended in dramatic scenes.
The Lions were up on the scoreboard, but after the final siren sounded, it was discovered the scoreboard was incorrect, and North Wanga-
“I’ll never forget my first win as a senior coach and that was out at Whorouly last year, I’ve never seen or experienced that before in a game, going from the extreme low to the extreme high in such a way was something I’ll never forget,” Manning said.
■ Continued page 31
