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AN exhibition of small works of collage by resident artist Georgina Wills which elevates the humble childhood practice of cutting and pasting has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

It is Georgina’s first solo exhibition at the gallery since becoming a resident artist.

THE Ovens and Murray region has been announced as one of eight beneficiaries of incoming State Government emergency housing support.

Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing, announced on Thursday that Junction Support Services in Wangaratta and Wodonga would be one of the support agencies chosen to deliver a $48 million investment to the new Homes First program.

The region was identified as an area in need of more support

services for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of sleeping rough.

With the investment, the State Government hopes to help 500 households over the next three years access long-term housing and support.

Junction Support Services chief

executive officer, Megan Hanley, said the investment to go with the State Government’s recent roll out of social housing through the Big Housing Build was welcomed.

“Our community has been facing significant challenges, especially with the rising cost of living,” she said.

“This has a profound impact on our entire community.

“We’ve seen that homelessness is on the rise, and we’ve seen that more and more people are doing it tough.

“This support is significant as it allows us to ensure people are afforded the basic human right of a home, and then supported to address the key drivers of homelessness.

“We thank the State Government for their commitment to support regional communities and we look forward to working in partnership with our local key stakeholders to ensure people are provided a home and the intensive support they need for a brighter future.”

■ Continued page 2

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Drug-driver caught for third time

A WANGARATTA man has been banned from driving for 12 months after being caught drug-driving for a third time.

Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court heard this week that the 25-year-old was pulled over while driving on the Murray Valley Highway near Bundalong at 9.30pm on April 24 this year and tested positive to cannabis. When questioned about his drug-use, the defendant said he didn’t know he had anything in his system, as he

State offers $48m to help address homelessness in region

■ from page 1

Minister Shing said as well as accommodation, those in the program will receive intensive support to ensure they are getting the responsive, flexible wrap-around support that they need to thrive, which may include mental health, drug and alcohol, financial counselling and family violence support for those who need it.

“Finding people a safe and secure place to call home is one part of breaking the cycle of homelessness, the other is making sure they have the wraparound supports they need to thrive,” she said.

“Homes First is evidence-based and will provide practical, onthe-ground support to hundreds of Victorians right across the state.

“This is an opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness – because we know that having secure, stable housing with wraparound supports leads to better outcomes across the board.”

At least 10 per cent of Homes First funding will be targeted towards Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, to ensure responses have self-determination at the centre of their approach.

The program will also operate in BrimbankMelton, Hume-Merribek, Outer Eastern Melbourne, Goulburn, Inner Gippsland, Loddon and Wimmera South-West.

was dropping off a friend to see their kids.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon said the man had faced court for similar drug-driving with cannabis charges twice before. Representing himself, the defendant said he had since given up drug use after his latest incident, disassociating himself from other drug users and being forced to change occupations.

on the bum,” he said.

“I don’t believe the courses, they tell you it can stay in your system for around five days, but I reckon it’s much longer than that.”

“I was trying to knuckle down but this just bit me

Magistrate Peter Dunn issued a $1200 fine and a

Foo

Led Zeppelin and The Cure, will be among the line-up at Wangaratta Battle of the Bands in October.

Rusted Blood are all set for battle

By SIMONE KERWIN

“PURE, refined, punk as hell rock’n’roll” is how Rusted Blood describes its music.

Inspired by the likes of Sex Pistols, Ramones, Misfits, Foo Fighters, Led Zeppelin and The Cure, the three-piece outfit is among those set to take part in Wangaratta’s Battle of the Bands this October.

The October 20 event, to be held at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta, is part of the North East Battle of the Bands series, and will showcase young musicians from the Rural City of Wangarat-

ta, Mansfield, Benalla, Alpine, Indigo, Moira, Strathbogie, Towong and Albury shires.

Rusted Blood comprises Will Peasley on guitar and lead vocals, Kane Sepulveda on bass guitar and backing vocals, and Dylan Cosgriff on drums and backing vocals.

The group has been together for around six months, since meeting at Melbourne’s Cherry Bar, where both of their old bands were performing.

Their name comes from Dylan’s first band; when Kane and Will started their new band, they were heavily influenced by what they had

seen while watching the old Rusted Blood perform live, so as Dylan was no longer using the name, he insisted the new line-up revive it.

Regularly performing a mix of original songs and covers, Rusted Blood plans to play its three favourite original songs when it performs at Wangaratta Battle of the Bands for the first time.

“We look forward to putting on a show no-one has ever seen before,” Will said. Entry to the Wangaratta Battle of the Bands competition is free, and open to local solo musicians, duos and bands of all genres aged between 12 and 25.

Artists must perform two or three songs per act, or for a maximum of 15 minutes, at the event, and performances must be appropriate for viewing by a young audience.

Songs do not have to be original, but a bonus point will be awarded for each original song.

Once a performer has won one of the events in the series, they cannot participate in others, as they will have already advanced to the final.

To sign up for the Wangaratta Battle of the Bands, visit https://forms.office. com/r/QqTG6A8mgn

12-month licence suspension.

“You might want to think about providing some clean drug screens when applying for your licence again, having already swore off it to two other magistrates,” he said.

Police on the lookout for opportunistic supermarket ute thief

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

POLICE are on the lookout for a supermarket ute thief after a vehicle was stolen from Wangaratta Woolworths on Wednesday night.

Senior Constable Jacob Handley of Wangaratta police said a silver Ford Wild ute was reported stolen at 6pm from the supermarket’s car park.

Sen Const Handley said the vehicle was stolen after the victim made a five-minute stop, leaving the vehicle unlocked and the keys inside.

“It’s a reminder to everyone to make sure they lock their cars and don’t leave their keys in them,” he said.

“The statistics around theft from motor vehicles are quite high at the moment, particularly the theft from motor vehicles that are unlocked or with keys in them.”

Sen Const Handley said officers thankfully tracked down the vehicle, which had been left abandoned at a motel in Forrest Hill at around 2am Friday morning.

“I believe it was a little bit of luck, members were out there patrolling and they located it,” he said.

“We’ll follow the investigation from there and hopefully identify the offenders.”

The vehicle was recovered back to Wangaratta on Thursday afternoon, with investigations into the identity of the offenders ongoing.

Anyone with further information can call Wangaratta police on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Fighters,

“Horrific” period on roads

POLICE have issued an urgent warning to road users across the state after a deadly period on local regional roads.

A total of eight lives have been lost since Monday, July 8, bringing the total lives lost on the state’s roads to 154, surpassing last year’s total of 152 at the same time last year.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating one of those fatal collisions in Allans Flat on Wednesday afternoon.

Police said it is was understood a

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

DRIVER KILLED, THREE INJURED IN CRASH

grey Ford Falcon sedan collided with a utility towing a trailer on Wodonga-Yackandandah Road at around 2pm.

The driver of the Ford Falcon, an 18-year-old West Wodonga man, died at the scene.

The passenger, a 17-year-old Myrtleford girl, was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The utility left the road and

crashed down an embankment.

The driver of the utility, a 58-yearold West Wodonga woman, was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

The passenger, a 19-year-old Allans Flat man, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

Police are also investigating a double fatality in Nathalia, where two vehicles collided on Katamatite-Nathalia Road just before midday on Thursday.

This followed separate fatal single-vehicle collisions in Bannockburn, Truganina and Delahy on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, two drivers were both killed in a head on colli-

sion in Moriac on Monday evening.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said the horrific period on the state’s roads was incredibly concerning for the force.

“Now is not the time to be complacent – this should absolutely be cause for concern for everyone,” he said.

“We need everyone to stop and think – not only about their own safety, but how their decisions and behaviours behind the wheel can impact the safety of all others.”

Monaros to roll into city for national rally Stolen car goes up in flames near Chiltern

A FLEET of well-tended Monaros drawn from across Australia will cruise into Wangaratta this October.

The Monaro Club Victoria is hosting the Monaro Nationals from October 24 to 28 in the rural city, where the event was first held in 1998.

After providing the base for that inaugural event, Wangaratta also hosted the 2000 and 2002 nationals, and since then the gathering has been held in alternate states every two years (apart from the COVIDaffected 2020 meet, which was to have been held in Victoria).

The most recent nationals were held in Queensland’s Toowoomba in 2022.

The Monaro Club Victoria is excited about bringing the event back to its initial home, and is welcoming all enthusiasts to the gathering, titled ‘Monaro Is Back’.

Marlene Rowe from Monaro Club Victoria said 200 to 250 entrants were expected to make their way to Wangaratta for the event.

“That means approximately 400 people coming in over the four days,” she said.

Ms Rowe said a show and shine event at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on day three, which would be open to the public, would probably draw even more visitors to the rural city.

“The last nationals held in Victoria was in 2008 in Ballarat, and we had 2800 people through the gate at the show

MONARO FAN: Greg Wheeler, with his Monaro CV8-Z, is among local motoring enthusiasts looking forward to October’s Monaro Nationals being held in Wangaratta, the first since 2002 in the rural city, which hosted the inaugural gathering in 1998. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

and shine,” she said.

A program of events beginning with scrutineering on Thursday, October 24, and continuing with a ‘meet and greet’ session for entrants at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, October 25 will also include the show and shine at the Showgrounds on Saturday, October 26 from 10am to 4pm.

That evening there will be an informal cruise around

the city, and Sunday, October 27 will feature a driving event at Winton Motor Raceway, which will also be open to the public, with the national presentation dinner that night.

On Monday, October 28 the nationals will wind down with a farewell cruise poker run leaving from the Wangaratta airfield.

Among those looking forward to the Wangaratta event is local resident Greg

Wheeler, who said he had an appreciation for Holden cars, and had been drawn to Monaros since he was a primary schooler in the late 1960s.

When the last Monaro model, CV8-Z, rolled off the production line, Greg said he saw it as his chance to own one.

He said the Monaro Nationals promised to be a huge event for Wangaratta.

“It’s bringing it back home,

in a way, because the event was held here first,” he said.

“I’m certainly looking forward to the show and shine at the showgrounds - the chance to see cars from all around the country.

“And Saturday evening will be great, to see them all cruising around town.”

All event details and entry information about the Monaro Nationals is available at www.monaroclubvic.com.au

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A STOLEN car was found in flames after it had crashed into a tree along Beechworth-Chiltern Road in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Wodonga police said just past midnight near Chiltern, emergency services attended to an abandoned vehicle on fire. Police said the fire may have been sparked by the high-speed crash.

The vehicle was later found to be a stolen Volkswagen from Seddon and investigations into the matter remain ongoing.

Anyone with information can call Wodonga police on (02) 6049 2600 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Tree planting day in Oxley

THE Milawa Markwood Oxley Landcare group and the Oxley Residents Association welcome volunteers to join them for a community planting day by the King River at Oxley on Sunday, July 21 from 10am until 12pm.

Celebrating National Tree Day, all are welcome with morning tea provided (byo gloves and a shovel), meeting near the Oxley Memorial Park. For more information contact Kerrie at landcare. kerrie@gmai

Come enjoy Bangerang Community Day today

TO celebrate NAIDOC Week, the community is invited to a free family fun day today at the Northern Beaches Scout Hall on College Street in Wangaratta from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

There will be a Welcome to Country, the Damanmu Dance Crew, traditional woodworking and weaving workshops, Bangerang language, astronomy and cultural artefacts and a wildlife display.

There will also be kids games and activities and a free lunch, with no bookings required and all welcome.

The event is a partnership between Bangerang Aboriginal Corporation, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education, Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation and Rural City of Wangaratta, supported by funds from the Australian Government’s National Indigenous Australians Agency.

It’s all new, it’s wild, it’s extreme

THE GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS COMING TO WANGARATTA

UNDER the banner of the Great Moscow Circus, death-defying acts from around the globe are touring Victoria for the first time since 2021 including an extended season in Wangaratta from Thursday, July 18.

And despite its name, there is no connection between the circus and the Russian government and hasn’t been for more than 20 years.

The Great Moscow Circus first visited Australia in 1965 under the auspices of the Edgley Organisation and has returned regularly ever since.

When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, the Edgley family purchased trademarks on the ownership of the name and those trademarks remain with the Edgley family and the Weber Circus family today.

This touring company features carefully chosen superstars from Armenia, Ukraine, Brazil, Columbia, Greece, New Zealand and Australia and continues to entertain millions throughout Australia and New Zealand.

This new ‘extreme’ show features daredevil BMX and Pro Scooter riders, hair-raising multi-motorcycle cage riders and a world record acclaimed pole act.

Their Armenian clown Gagik has been revered as ‘the funniest in the world’, leaving audiences roaring with laughter while the Wheel of Death and electrifying high tricks on the trampoline heighten the extreme theme leaving audiences gasping in shock.

Several extraordinary aerial acts and a mind-blowing trapeze act with amazing ‘techno colour’ lighting and superb costuming will also thrill the crowd. Don’t miss this ‘greatest show on Earth’ designed for the entire family to enjoy with daytime and evening performances from July 18 to July 28.

The Big Top will be set up at the rear of the Showgrounds Entertainment Precinct (the old rodeo ground) with entry via Golf Links Lane. For more information and to book your tickets go to www.thegreatmoscowcircus.com.au, visit them on Facebook or call 0497 MOSCOW (667 269).

Sexual violence is a local issue too

NEW research released this week by the Australian Institute of Criminology shows concerning figures around sexual violence perpetrators.

The study found one in five (22.1 per cent) participants had perpetrated one or more forms of sexual violence against another person in their adult life.

Even more shocking was that around one in 10 (9.9 per cent) had done so in the past 12 months.

Wangaratta Centre Against Violence (CAV) chief executive officer Jamie Chubb said the findings are deeply concerning and highlight an issue that is often underreported and misunderstood.

“This study includes disturbing behaviours like sexual harassment and coercion, as well as more severe forms of sexual assault,” she said.

“Notably, men were significantly more likely to use sexual violence and abuse, reinforcing the gendered nature of this issue.

“These statistics are alarming and show the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the prevention of sexual violence.

“The findings from this study help our understanding by pro-

viding more accurate estimates of sexual violence perpetration, which is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention measures.”

Locally, the latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency for the year ending March 2024 shows a mixed picture of sexual assault incidents across the Ovens Murray region.

Sexual assaults in the Alpine region have risen from 15 to 17 cases, and Mansfield has seen a significant increase from four to 18 cases, while Benalla experienced a slight increase from 34 to 35 cases.

Conversely, Indigo reported a decrease from 34 to 17 cases, Towong from 12 to 11 cases, Wangaratta saw a reduction from 78 to 68 cases, and Wodonga recorded a drop from 110 to 103 cases.

However, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data estimates that only 13 per cent of people who have been sexually assaulted report it to police.

According to ABS statistics released in August 2023, 53 per cent of people using violence and abuse were intimate partners, and 69 per cent of incidents occurred in a home.

“We understand that revealing this sexual abuse is incredibly difficult, and we have supports in place to help,” Ms Chubb said.

“Our staff are trained to advocate for victim’s needs, ensuring that they receive the care and assistance they require during such challenging times.”

CAV also provides assessment and treatment for harmful and problematic sexual behaviour exhibited by children and young people.

This service supports and involves the parents and carers of these children and young people.

The Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB) program is a voluntary service for children and young people aged five to 17 years, with engagement for those aged 10 to 17 potentially mandated by a Therapeutic Treatment Order.

Funded by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, the HSB program is an early intervention and therapeutic initiative aimed at supporting healthy decision-making and maintaining safe and respectful relationships.

“We must continue to educate our communities, support survivors, and hold people using violence and abuse accountable to create a safer society for everyone,” Ms Chubb said.

“At CAV we have highly trained and supportive practitioners who are available to provide support, advocacy, and information to anyone in the Ovens Murray area needing support due to sexual assault.”

Anyone one in need can reach out via CAV’s website at www.centreag ainstviolence. org.au or call 03 5722 2203.

If you need after hours support, call the Sexual Assault Crisis Line (SACL) 1800 806 292.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

ANOTHER LEVEL: Daredevil BMX and Pro Scooter riders have added an extreme element to the Great Moscow Circus.

Former MP will run in Appin ward

run for Appin ward at the next Rural City of Wangaratta council elections in October.

The former member of Victorian Parliament, a passionate victims of crime campaigner and now keynote speaker on surviving trauma, said she had decided to nominate for council for two reasons.

“I think my experience as an MP will hold me in good stead to understand the role of being elected into local government, and I’m still passionate about my community and looking at ways we can improve on the great things we have in our local government area,” Ms Maxwell said.

“Having that love for community means you want the best for your community, and council would be a great way to represent it.

“I love getting out and about and talking to community members and hearing their concerns.

“I’m not coming in with any particular plans of what I want to change - I think local government is a team, and as such you need to work as a team to represent the entire LGA.

“It’s about seeing what the community wants and what they need.”

Ms Maxwell said she had been considering a tilt at council for “quite a few months”.

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

“I just decided I had to make a decision based on my passion,” she said.

“I think if you have passion in your work, you will get up every day excited to go to work.”

Ms Maxwell said she had an ability to think laterally and strategically, and to use common sense in decision-making.

“I have strong governance skills and understand policy, I’m a strong advocate, and I have the drive and ability to know it’s one thing to sit and talk about things, but that implementation from discussions is really important,” she said.

“One thing I’d like to work on if I’m elected is educating people about how council works, and ensuring good communication.

“You can’t please everybody all the time, but it’s about communicating in a positive way so that people know and understand what is happening and are encouraged to be part of council.”

Ms Maxwell said she wanted to be part of a solution-focused council.

“I’m really excited...I’ve made the decision that I’ll stand, and I’ll give it my absolute best,” she said.

RURAL City of Wangaratta voters head to the polls, via a postal ballot, in October to elect seven councillors for the next four years. This year’s election will be different as a state electoral review will see the rural city’s current council ward structure of four wards (one city ward with four councillors, three rural wards electing one councillor each) being replaced with a new seven single-councillor ward structure.

Voters in each of the seven wards (Appin Ward, Bullawah Ward, King River Ward, Ovens Ward, Warby Ward, Wareena Ward and Yarrunga Ward) will only get to choose between those candidates standing in their ward. Nominations for council are expected to open September 19 and close September 25. For more details, including enrolment to vote details, visit the Victorian Electoral Commission website: https://www.vec.vic. gov.au/voting/2024local-council-elections

NEW CHALLENGE: Victims of crime advocate and former member of Victorian Parliament Tania Maxwell has announced her intention to stand for Rural City of Wangaratta council in October.

TANIA Maxwell is the first person to announce an intention to

Fair access plan to make local sport more inclusive

BY EMILY GUY editorial.chronicle@ nemedia.com.au

Implementation of a three-year action plan to improve access to council sporting infrastructure for people of all genders and abilities throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta will be a talking point at a community sports forum next week.

Council’s community and recreation team is holding the forum with Good Sports, AFL Northeast Border, and Sports Northeast, with an open invitation for all clubs and community members to attend from 7pm on Monday, July 15, at the community centre at the HP Barr Reserve.

Rural city recreation officer, Kirsty Branagan, said the event is an opportunity to learn more about council’s fair access policy - developed with the community - and specific actions planned to support its implementation over the next three years.

The policy is a roadmap to implement equitable access to publicly owned community sports infrastructure across the state for everyone in the community.

“All Victorian councils have been mandated by the State Government to introduce a fair access policy which covers the equitable use of sporting infrastructure,” Ms Branagan said.

“From a community

LEARN MORE AT COMMUNITY FORUM MONDAY NIGHT

development perspective, it is really important to make sure that we’re supporting equitable access to sporting facilities so that everyone has the opportunity to be able to participate in whatever way they feel comfortable.”

Historically, and especially in regional areas, women and people with a disability may have been excluded from sports, in part because existing infrastructure was not made available to them.

“We’ve got a lot of new sports and we’ve got a lot of new participants; we need to make sure that we’re offering equitable access,”

Ms Branagan said.

“Not only in North East Victoria, but across the board we see that there is an assumption that the way it’s always been is the way it should be.”

Ms Branagan said that by supporting local sports clubs to create positive, inclusive cultures our community sports organisations will become places that everybody wants to engage with.

“If we make sure sports clubs respect all genders and playing styles then the natural flow-on of that is that more people will feel comfortable and safe to get involved,” she said.

“We all know that particularly in regional areas community sport is a huge part of how people spend their spare time...what we

Project Update

“It shouldn’t be just that because you’ve always had that training time you’ll automatically get it,” she said.

“We need to make sure that we are providing access to the times that suit all of our participants.”

While there are concerns regarding potential decreased access for men’s sides, Ms Branagan said the action plan aims to improve access to sport for all.

“Nobody loses out on this, everybody can be welcomed and safe to participate,” she said.

“It’s a three-year action plan, so it’s not about having sudden change all at once, we are going to support clubs to come onboard over the next three years.”

The plan is largely focused on education in community clubs, with activities like the community sports forum where community members can find out about simple actions they can take to support the participation of all genders and abilities.

We We’ve got a lot t of new e spo p rts an a d we w ’ve e got t a loot of new ew p particcipanntsts; we neeeed d to o makke e suure re that wee’re offfer e inng eqqui u tabl b e ac acce c ss ss. - Ki Kirssty ty Braanaga g n

see is that the culture within a sporting organisation impacts the attitudes and behaviours that we see across the community.

“We hope that by working

Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Enhancements

through the action plan for the fair access policy there will be systemic change in how people are embraced within our community and sporting organisations.”

The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Enhancements Project includes the development and installation of public art, landscaping and improved amenity along the Murray to Mountains rail trail. The proposed enhancements will elevate the region’s rail trail network, cementing it as an authentic, iconic tourism product, to deliver strong outcomes for the local community and visitor economy.

The project aims to:

•Make the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail the pre-eminent rail trail in the Southern Hemisphere

•Drive repeat visitation and advocacy to the trail through enhancing the user experience for locals and visitors alike

•Inspire, delight and encourage talkability and social shareability to position the trail as a ‘must do’ accessible cycling experience to local, domestic and international audiences

To support the delivery of the project, Tourism North East is acting as the lead agency, working closely with the Rural City of Wangaratta, Indigo and Alpine Shires.

To find out more, visit tourismnortheast.com.au/m2m

The project is scheduled to be completed by June 2025.

Mr Branagan said a central focus of the action plan is to ensure that access to grounds for training and matches is evenly shared across all sports and genders.

The forum will also be an opportunity to hear from the council, AFL Northeast Border, and Sport Northeast about club culture, inclusion and diversity, vaping, alcohol and drugs, and more.

The event will be held at 7pm on Monday, July 15 at HP Barr Reserve Community Centre. Registration is essential: https://events.humanitix. com/wangaratta-sportingforum

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: Women’s football is one of many sports growing in popularity. Council says its new fair access policy is about helping ensure public sporting facilities are there for everyone to use.

PHOTO: Kev McGennan

Road fatalities continue to rise

AN urgent warning issued by police around road safety needs to be adhered to as a horrific death toll has accumulated on our roads in the past four days.

The state has experienced its deadliest start to July since 2008, with 14 lives lost in 11 days on our roads, including eight in four days, with many of those in regional and rural areas.

If it wasn’t scary enough, the twovehicle collision close to home at Allans Flat claiming a teenage life on Wednesday a double fatality in Nathalia on Thursday should bring serious concern locally.

While factors in these recent collisions are still under investigation, police are urging everyone to take extra care on the roads.

Police are determined to drive down the rising road trauma and will prioritise road policing enforcement across the state throughout the month.

Their message is simple: slow down, do not handle your mobile phones while driving, don’t drive under the influence, drive to the conditions be aware of road signs and other vehicles around you.

Historically winter’s reduced daylight hours and more slippery conditions have brought disastrous consequences, so pay extra attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions.

While devastating, it must come with extreme frustration for emergency service crews to have to attend to so many incidents, with an exhausting amount of messaging already being broadcast to the public.

It’s vital now as much as ever to think about what you’re doing behind the wheel.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the three month closure of the NAB Wangaratta branch.

• Steve Murphy: Can we still use the atm.

• Kaylene Hogan: 2.7 million dollar renovation, nearly build a whole new building for that amount of money.

• Trudi Louise McCauley: its way to silly for most customers l believe what is going on in this country hard on people who can’t do online thing like myself and many

others who been with the bank all there life.

• Craig McDonald: Upgrading to zero customer facing.

• Kim Maree: Craig McDonald funny but probably sadly true.

• Joslyn Bosch: Kim Maree well they will loose customers because if you want to deposit your days takings you either have to drive to Benalla or Wodonga. One the front door it says post office will take your banking but it was a

New youth crime legislation is needed

A CITY that was once the world’s most liveable, Melbourne now is a place where law abiding citizens live in dread of unbridled home invasions from ungovernable youth gangs, enjoying flagrant immunity from an ineffectual judiciary.

Statutory interpretation of legislation affords magistrates and judges scant latitude for adjudication more in accord with community expectations.

It is the parliament’s responsibility to introduce pertinent legislation for adequate control of juvenile criminals.

It is past time to perish the notion that if a minor breaks the law, society is guilty rather than the perpetrator.

If they can’t see the light, let them feel the heat.

It is the responsibility of all adults to impose the pressure of people power on politicians, for changes to the law regarding retribution of repeat juvenile offenders.

‘Screw your courage to the sticking place and we’ll not fail’ - Lady Macbeth.

Barry McArthur, Wangaratta

Young people to help combat youth crime

CRIME Stoppers Victoria is working with young Victorians to combat increased rates of youth violence by asking them to ‘Share If You Care’ in a new campaign.

According to Crime Statistics Data, there has been an increase in serious and violent offences committed by individuals aged 14 to 176433 crimes against a person were recorded in the past 12 months to end of March 2024.

This initiative, developed in collaboration with students from Lyndhurst Secondary College, is encouraging young Victorians to take action and change the narrative surrounding violence.

The new campaign is asking young people to share footage on their phones with Crime Stoppers, while staying unknown.

Students at Lyndhurst SC were adamant that not all young people are involved in violence, with many wanting to make a difference.

They asked, “What if that was you, what if it was your family, what if it was your friends. Wouldn’t you like someone to do something about it?”

Crime Stoppers will further empower young people in the fight against crime by taking the campaign to schools.

Resources will be available for students, parents and guardians to help with the tough conversations regarding youth violence.

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

definite no from them!

• Kim Maree: Joslyn Bosch I know right, I sent a staff member down to change $100 and they wouldn’t cause we don’t bank with them!! How bloody strange!!

• Carmel Woods: Too bad if you need some customer service for the next 3 months.

• Charmaine Kohler: ATM’s inside the door, security at night. Then go through to counters.

• Rhonda Watson: Are they

swapping over to CBDC? Or the Quantom Financial System maybe

• Kelly Leanne Zuch: Rhonda Watson why do you say that?

• Emma Harrington: Rhonda Watson no they are doing renovations. Facebook users also commented on local Auskick president, Ben Watts, being nominated for two AFL volunteer awards.

• Kristy Harding: On ya Ben Watts.

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

14,911

FULL STEAM AHEAD: Families recently gathered at Wangaratta Primary School for a night of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) activities. Harry and Sheldon Cook (pictured) were among those tackling circuit making and other interesting challenges.

Crime Stoppers want young people to know, it doesn’t matter who you are, the question is, who are you protecting by not sharing what you know?

Crime Stoppers gives you a way to speak up without fear.

Young people can easily put in an online report and share images and videos they already have on their phones.

Online reporting also allows them to share content they may be seeing on social media.

Sixty-six per cent of reports to Crime Stoppers Victoria are made online which shows people want to make a difference and be a part of the solution.

Providing information to Crime Stoppers can make a huge difference and possibly change the outcome of an investigation, all while staying unknown.

Stella Smith, Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive

Weakening of bail laws need reversing

IN March this year, the Allan Labor Government’s weakened bail laws came into effect.

The tragic consequences of this ideological decision are now there for all Victorians to see.

Innocent Victorians are dying while serious offending, including youth offending, is getting worse.

PHOTO: Zoe Henschke

Labor needs to admit that it got bail badly wrong, apologise to Victorians and fix its mess. As a starting point, the government should immediately reinstate the Bail Act offences of ‘committing indictable offence whilst on bail’ (former section 30B) and ‘contravene bail condition’ (former section 30A). Doing so will mean that repeat serious offenders will face a much tougher test for remaining on bail and that failure to comply with bail conditions will lead to consequences.

If Labor refuses to act, the Liberals and Nationals will propose legislative changes to reinstate the bail offences that Labor scrapped in March this year.

Michael O’Brien, Shadow Attorney-General

FACEBOOK users this week commented on a program pairing young hospitality students with older people to improve their cooking skills.

• Beth Davies: Naomi Kerr he’s really enjoyed the whole experience

• Jennifer Poulos: such a fantastic opportunity Facebook users this week also commented on local homeless shelter opening seven nights of the week.

• Christine Radford Dinneen: What can the shelter benefit from....I am at the point of clearing

out cupboards and if there is anything that’s needed, I would gladly help....

• Kerrie Grady: Great job guys!

• Mary Verdon: What can anyone do to help donate food etc

Butter bread eggs bacon what else

• Vezz Davern: So good Facebook users also commented on man being rescued from a drop toilet.

• James Woods: Bottoms up!

• Jack Carruthers: That’s a bummer.

• Frank Mckay: The record is Monday to Saturday

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

• Jon Steele: Brendan - which one are you holding a grudge against?

• Shania Henshall: Vanessa Barnett was it you? Did you get stuck

• Tamara Giggins: Maddy Davidson your fear unlocked

• Maddy Davidson: Tamara Giggins hahahahahahaha 100%

• Jack Gray: Johny Rokahr is this where you were this arvo?

• Johny Rokahr: Jack Gray yeah I got sick of being crook so threw myself into the toilet Facebook users this week

also commented on the High Society Jazz Orchestra inviting the community to celebrate Christmas in July.

• Laura Gundrill: Looking forward to it!!

• Linda Simpson: Laura Gundrill a 2nd chance for me to be glittery & celebrate you at The Vine Hotel! Will bring your pressie!

• High Society Jazz Orchestra: Thank you very much Wangaratta Chronicle

• Linda Simpson: Thank you Wangaratta Chronicle, we really appreciate your support.

X USERS this week tweeted about former AFL superstar Eddie Betts, local football and netball games being livestreamed and a local school winning an architecture award.

AFL @AFL

Eddie Betts has still got it The former AFL superstar claims another pocket playing for the Wangaratta Rovers!

Ovens & Murray FNL @omfnl

ITS GAMEDAY! The SS&A Ovens & Murray is back in Round 12, with huge games across Wodonga, North Albury, Wangaratta, Lavington, and Yarrawonga! Cant make it to the game? Don’t miss out on the actionhead to http://omfnl.com.au for free live streams!

Melbourne School of Design @MSDSocial

The results for the 2024 @ArchitectureAu Award for Social Impact are in, congrats to Sibling Architecture on their win for the ‘joyous’ Wangaratta District Specialist School.

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

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

14,910 Tweet

Following recent wins at Narrandera, Corowa, Gundagai, and Wangaratta, Craig Weeding and the team will be out on Monday to continue their good recent run when they travel to Albury. Weeding Racing @craigweeding

Galen Stadium 6-8pm | Expo with

Soul Food Café 6-8pm | Principal Darta Hovey available for

Galen Performing Arts Centre 7pm - Year 10

GOTAFE’s Megan Dodd has been nominated for her exceptional dedication to student experience and vocational education in agriculture! Megan’s commitment to student success, industry collaboration, and continuous improvement is truly inspiring.

Government ruffles feathers with new hunting regulations

By EMILY GUY

LOCAL state MPs are split over revised duck hunting regulations released by the State Government.

With the state’s current hunting regulations set to expire in September, the government held an inquiry into Victoria’s Recreational Native Bird Hunting Arrangements, which delivered eight recommendations.

The government has rejected a recommended cessation of the annual hunting season, but is supporting all other recommendations, namely: government control of native bird populations, retained Traditional Owner hunting rights, greater access to outdoor recreation for all, additional resources dedicated to controlling non-native invasive species, discontinued use of lead shot and investigation into plastic pollution, increased protections of Aboriginal cultural heritage and mandatory participation in an Aboriginal cultural heritage awareness education program.

Wangaratta-based Nationals MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, maintains that duck hunting is a legitimate activity which thousands of Victorians enjoy each year.

“Sustainable limits, increased training, and other reforms are important to ensure that we can continue to enjoy this fine tradition,” Mr McCurdy said.

But Animal Justice Party MP for Northern Victoria, Georgie Purcell, remains disappointed the proposal doesn’t support the ending of duck hunting.

“Despite the insurmountable evidence collated during the In-

quiry into Native Bird Hunting Arrangements, the government ignored the main recommendation – to ban this blood sport for good,” she said.

Mr Purcell cited long-term population decline among native waterbirds as a reason to end the sport, or to at least implement reduced bag limits.

Danny Ryan from the Victorian Duck Hunters Association said the bag limit is subject to change according to the adaptive harvest model which considers the bird population each year.

“The adaptive harvest model will give a clear indication of how many birds there are and how many birds can be harvested in a safe, responsible manner,” he said.

“This means political arguments and ambiguity will be taken out and the science will be king, science will dictate what the terms of the season are.”

Mr Ryan gave evidence that suggested the bird population is constantly changing and that the rhetoric of population long-term decline may not be true.

“The population has doubled, in 2022 the bird count came back as 2.8 million birds, and at the end of 2023 the count came back as 7.1 million birds,” he said.

Kerrie Allen from the Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting Inc. (RVOTDS) released a public statement say-

ing the draft regulations are a “disgrace”.

“It’s unacceptable the government has refused to address the fact that hunting is permitted at so many tens of thousands of public areas, they can’t possibly be monitored,” Ms Allen said.

However, Mr Ryan said the GMA is effective in doing its job, with a 35% increase in GMA checks in the past season.

“The 60,000 registered hunters are one of the most regulated sectors of our community.”

A priority of hunters and anti-hunting activists alike is that proficiency and identification training should be supported to ensure safe and sustainable hunting.

Ken and his Tiger Moth ready to fly

FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2014.

HE learnt to fly in a Tiger Moth on his parents’ coffee plantation in Papua New Guinea and has gone on to fly jumbo jets commercially.

Ken Broomhead (above) will return to his roots this weekend when he flies his Tiger Moth VH SSK in the centenary celebrations of the nation’s first air mail run.

The Wangaratta Aero Club member will fly his Tiger Moth from Wangaratta to Benalla to meet up with several planes making the trip from Melbourne to Sydney and join the leg from Benalla to Wangaratta.

The Tiger Moth has been in Mr Broomhead’s possession for the past 30 years and he usually takes it out a few times a year for events like Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.

It started out life as a training aircraft with the RAAF in 1942 and was a crop duster when Mr Broomhead bought it 30 years ago and restored it to its original state.

REPURPOSED: Hanging bottle planters are one example of how plastic bottles can be reused; local primary school students are urged to come up with their own ideas through the Circular Champions competition.

Primary schools can think outside the bottle

By SIMONE KERWIN

LOCAL primary school students have the chance to share in $20,000 worth of prizes in a nation-wide competition set to open for entries soon.

Circular Champions invites youngsters to ‘think outside the bottle’ by creating an innovative way of reusing plastic bottles.

A total of $20,000 worth of classroom stationery prizes are up for grabs in the competition, which is part of the popular Aussie of the Month Award, a student recognition program which rewards the characteristics of personal endeavour, teamwork and contribution to community and is the younger sibling of the prestigious Australian of the Year Awards.

The Aussie of the Month program - delivered by the Australia Day Council national network in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs - recognises outstanding contributions to the primary school community and broader society, and rewards students who display values such as respect, inclusion, mateship and a fair go.

It’s hoped youngsters will exhibit these values while preparing their entries for the Circular Champions competition, which opens on July 22 and closes on September 20.

To enter, schools can register for Aussie of the Month at www.aussieofthemonth.org.au and prepare their class entry.

He said flying a Tiger Moth was challenging.

“You have to respect the wind,”

Mr Broomhead said.

“They’re easy to fly but demanding to fly well.

“It was very much visual flying in those days – you flew from beacon to beacon.”

This weekend will be a change of pace for Mr Broomhead, who is a commercial pilot for Tiger Airlines and has worked for Ansett and Singapore Airlines over the years.

“After learning to fly in the Tiger Moth I went on to fly DC3s through to 747 jumbo jets,” he said.

FLYING TIGER IN 100 YEAR

It was built in 1942 and has seen a lot over the past 72 years. And this weekend Ken Broomhead’s Tiger Moth will take to the skies between Benalla and Wangaratta as aviation enthusiasts from around the country help publicly celebrate the centenary anniversary of the first air mail run in Australia, which touched down in

NOMINATIONS OPEN: Nominate a local business who uses music to enhance their business and customer experience.

Nominations open for award encouraging venues backing music

By JORDAN DUURSMA

NOMINATIONS are open for the OneMusic Excellence Award for venues who have elevated music to be their premium marketing drawcard.

The OneMusic Excellence Award is part of the national Restaurant and Catering Association Awards series which celebrates Victorian dining venues.

The awards are open to any Victorian restaurant, café, or bistro owners who put an interesting spin on music.

Free to enter, entries close on Monday, August 12.

To make a nomination visit https://form. jotform.com/Marketing_RCA/2024-onemusicexcellence-award-nomi.

CHANGES AFOOT: Duck hunting will remain, with some revised regulations under a draft supported by the State Government.

FLIGHT:

Wangaratta on July 16, 1914.

PHOTO: Luke Plummer

New guide to native plants at Mokoan

lbtthith gy

IN celebration of NAIDOC Week, the Rural City of Benalla and Winton Wetlands has released a new guide detailing the key native plants of Mokoan and surrounds.

‘A guide to significant Indigenous plants of Mokoan’ is written in collaboration with native plant experts as well as land and water ecologists, and provides information on over two dozen different Indigenous plants.

“This is an exciting initiative that will share valuable information more widely,” restoration manager at Winton Wetlands Dr Lisa Farnsworth said.

“We are proud to have the opportunity to help combine the knowledge of the Yorta Yorta people and the ecology team to produce a guide like this.

“For us, it represents a clear demonstration of our desire to walk together to care for Country.”

YOUR NEW GUIDE!: Everything you need to know about Mokoan’s native plants.

learn about this, the more we can all walk together with a better shared understanding.”

In addition to Winton Wetlands and Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, other organisations giving support for the Environment Protection Act-linked project included: Park Lane Nursery, Merriwa Industries, the Regent Honeyeater Project and the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.

Cultural officer Nikki James said she looked forward to people using the guide to understand more about the cultural dimensions of Mokoan, as well as the many practical uses to which wetlands plants have long been applied.

“Many of these plants have been important both as food and for medicine, amongst other things,” Ms James said.

“The more people can

The guide details both land-based and water-based plant species, including trees, shrubs and other ground vegetation.

Funding for the project was also supplied by a ‘restorative project order’ proposed by EPA Victoria as part of a court prosecution against a local polluter.

Local schools and a local youth support group, Boys to the Bush, also participated in planting activities at the wetlands.

The guide was released publicly on Tuesday, in the lead up to the Winton Wetlands’ own annual NAIDOC Week morning tea today.

Awards seek to celebrate outstanding people in Victoria’s disability sector

VICTORIANS have the chance to shine a spotlight on individuals, groups and organisations that promote the rights and inclusion of people with disability by nominating them for the 2024 Victorian Disability Awards.

Minister for Disability, Lizzie Blandthorn, announced the opening of nominations for the 2024 Victorian Disability Awards, inviting the community to nominate someone that champions the rights of people with disability, and works to ensure the state is more inclusive and accessible.

Nominations can be made across four categories including: Lifetime Achievement Award,

Leadership in Co-design, Advocacy for People (including Self-Advocacy), and Disability Pride Champion.

Where Is My Coffee in Wangaratta previously won the award for Excellence in Employment Outcomes, for their work in creating a safe and accessible workplace for people with disability.

Nominations for the 2024 Victorian Disability Awards close Friday, July 19 with the awards ceremony to be held on Tuesday, December 3.

To nominate a deserving individual or group, visit dffh.vic.gov.au/victorian-disabilityawards.

GET

LOTS TO LEARN: Dr Lisa Farnsworth (centre), showcases a collection of native plants.

Family Fun at NAIDOC Week celebration

By JORDAN DUURSMA

On Tuesday from 10:30am to 12:30pm,

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Bec Lathan, Helen Parfett, Dani Hawkins and Mel Endersby were just some of many who gathered for the community event.

MATCHING SPIDER-MEN: Brayden Young and Mac Colin had their faces painted to match Spiderman and each other.

ALL AGES WELCOME: Community members off all ages were welcome, Jeda Cooper-Todd and Bella Houldcroft joined in the fun.

NAIDOC CELEBRATION: Chelsea Goldsworthy and Aria Scott came out for NAIDOC Week celebration.

FAMILY FUN: Grace Endersby and Allira Latham joined in the fun for NAIDOC Week and had their faces painted.

ALL SMILES: Laura Shortis and Kallum Croxford were full of smiles at NAIDOC Week celebration.

BALLOON ANIMALS: Piper Endersby with a beaming smile holding her balloon animals.

COMMUNITY EVENT: Jaara Moran and Shahid Siddique were part of the crowd at the Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation’s family fun day. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

THE Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation (MAC) held two community celebrations to mark NAIDOC Week 2024.

people gathered at MAC’s office Ryley Street to join in a morning tea and cultural activities with a flag raising ceremony, before heading to Merriwa Park for a family fun day for the afternoon. Uncle Dozer presented a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony, followed by a performance by Damanu Dance Group, live music, children’s activities and food trucks.

Council seeks public feedback on draft inclusivity plan

THE Rural City of Wangaratta’s Draft Inclusive Wangaratta Plan was endorsed at the June council meeting and is now available for public consultation.

Feedback is welcome until Friday, July 26 through council’s Connect Wangaratta community engagement portal at www.connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/inclusivewangaratta.

Cr Dave Fuller said coun-

cil has worked with the Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group and community members over the past year to develop the plan, seeking to ensure everyone in the municipality has the opportunity to engage, to prosper, to be supported, and to grow.

“Wangaratta is growing, and that growth has brought more diversity,” Cr Fuller said.

“We need to make sure we

meet the needs of the people in our community who might otherwise miss out, whether because of disability, or age, or not understanding how to access a service we provide.

“This plan outlines some ways we can improve access and celebrate our different backgrounds and experiences.

“It also works to connect and unite our community, to encourage kindness, ensur-

ing we are stronger together.”

Cr Fuller said the public feedback phase represents an integral part of the policymaking process and council is asking community members to share their ideas and provide input into the policies and actions outlined in the draft

An easy English version of the document is also available, providing an easier to read version for people who

may otherwise find the document challenging.

“Some people in the community face barriers to accessing help, this document works to build the comfort of all citizens living and visiting the municipality,” Cr Fuller said.

“I would encourage anyone who wants to give feedback but is having any problems to reach out to the community and recreation

Vet calls on community to have their pets desexed

THIS month is national desexing month and the team at Warby Street Veterinary Clinic are urging the community to desex their companion animals.

Clinic vet Monica Kunze said the main reasons to get your pets desexed is to combat pet overpopulation, behavioural problems and decrease the likelihood of many health issues including mammary cancer in female dogs and prostate cancer in male dogs.

“It’s our responsibility as good pet owners to be supporting our animals and supporting their health, for me that’s the biggest thing,” she said.

Dr Kunze said there are many laws in place that promote pet owners getting their pets desexed - for instance the cost of registering an animal in Wangaratta increases from around $50 for a desexed animal to around $150 for an animal that isn’t desexed.

Earlier this year, the Rural City of Wangaratta intro-

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

duced a Companion Animal Desexing and Microchipping Program to help eligible residents pay for the cost of desexing their animal that ended recently due to funds being exhausted.

The program subsidised $60 for cats and $150 for dogs to be desexed and Dr Kunze said it was a successful program that she would like to see continue.

“I think we should keep going with that because it’s going to motivate people to desex their animals and it will take the pressure off,” she said.

“Especially now and we’re really noticing the crunch with the economy, and it does help.”

Dr Kunze said subsidies like this are especially needed after the Wangaratta RSPCA closed down last year.

“The RSPCA closing down has really impacted the

community,” she said.

“If they’re not going to open the RSPCA back up, I think subsidies should be an ongoing thing or even for desexing month or twice or a few times a year that would really help.”

Dr Kunze said the age you should get your pet desexed at is dependent on sex, size and breed, with the average age being around six months.

She especially recommends getting dogs desexed while they’re younger and smaller to prevent complications during surgery and for higher prevention of health issues.

“For female dogs, desexing them before their first heat helps decreases mammary cancer drastically,” she said.

“It’s something that we do routinely, but larger animals are much harder to desex than smaller animals, especially when we spay mature dogs.

“I think clients don’t realise how difficult a surgery a spay is, it’s a major abdominal surgery.”

team to have a conversation.”

Cr Fuller said the Inclusive Wangaratta Strategy and Action Plan incorporates council’s Access and Inclusion Plan, Age Friendly Strategy, and considers the needs of other communities of priority, including First Nations communities, LGBTQIA+ people, women, older and young people, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Community grants up to $5000 offered

APPLICATIONS are now open for Nutrien Ag Solutions’ Community Grants Program, with eligible not-for-profit organisations invited to apply for grants of up to $5000 to support community projects.

“Through our partnership with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has been instrumental in providing more than $750,000 in funding over the last three years to local not-for-profit organisations,” Mady Muirhead, corporate affairs advisor at Nutrien Ag Solutions, said.

“In 2023 alone, we granted more than $252,000 to 57 community-led projects across remote, rural and regional Australia.” Applications are open now until August 8, with recipients announced in October.

An online webinar will be held to support grant seekers from 12.30pm – 1.30pm (AEST) on Tuesday, July 16. Sign up by visiting https://frrr. org.au/funding/place/nutrien/ For more information and to apply, visit: www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/nutrienag-solutions-communitygrants-program.

Muirs is proudly an Australian owned 4th Generation family business, established 97 years ago.

Specialising in a full range of Ag Chem, Seed and Fertilizer for your Horticulture, Pasture & Cropping needs.

The team of specialist Agronomists & Key Account Managers at our Wangaratta Branch have been supporting farmers locally for over 40 years.

HELPING PETS: Vet Monica Kunze said desexing animals can help pets, like Wonder, live longer and happier lives.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Enjoy memories, laughter with Stephen Hall’s Heroes

Comedy which pushes the boundaries has always appealed to Stephen Hall.

A familiar face of stage and screen - perhaps best known for his hilarious characters on Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell - the actor, writer, comedian and former quiz show champion has done a bit of everything over the last thirty-odd years, but comedy has been at the forefront.

Next week Stephen will present “Letters From My Heroes… if they’d actually bothered to write back” at the Edi Upper Hall; a oneman show jam-packed with celebrity impressions, something he learnt to do at school by mimicking teachers and the principal for laughs.

Stephen said it was his dad who inspired his love for quirky comedy, introducing him to British shows like Monty Python, Benny Hill and Fawlty Towers, and later Stephen Fry, Jennifer Saunders and Not the Nine O’Clock News.

He said growing up, Paul Hogan became a huge herothe show a must-see during Stephen’s primary school years.

“I used to collect comedy

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

albums and I became a student of it - a lifelong student of it really,” he says.

“What always appealed to me was the sort of wacky and out-there things, the really creative, adventurous stuff - more so than the observational, traditional stuff.”

Stephen said he has always loved impressionists and liked playing characters and doing voices, which is how his most recent show came about.

“When you see them done really well, it’s quite magical and I’ve always loved having a crack and doing them myself,” he said.

“But one of the things I noticed about impressionists is that once people do a voice or a character, and they do a sentence or two, they seem to flounder and get a bit lost.

“So again, it all comes back to the writing and the script - I give each impression a little reason to exist, make a point and get outbefore they overstay their welcome.”

The premise of the show is that Stephen has been

writing to his heroes – stars of stage and screen – asking for advice, and he reveals how they each might have responded if they’d bothered to reply.

In truth, the Monty Python and Fawlty Towers nerd has had the good fortune to meet and work with two of his real heroes - John Cleese and Eric Idle - which he counts as highlights of his life.

Stephen was cast in Spamalot back in 2007 which is how he met Idle, and following an arduous audition process which ran over days, John Cleese chose him to play Basil Fawlty in the 2016 production Fawlty Towers Live, saying “I can’t believe how good he is” about Stephen’s opening night performance.

The pressure of bringing to the stage one of the most

iconic characters in television history, created by one of the greatest comedians of all time, was something Stephen tried consciously not to be overwhelmed by.

“If you’d have told 14-yearold me that I would be working with John Cleese and Eric Idle, you would have blown my tiny mind,” he said.

“During Fawlty Towers Live, there were times when I would start to allow myself to think about what a big deal this is, and I had to kick that out of my mind, because if you start doing that, you will get overwhelmed and flustered.

“During the show and during the whole process, I really focused on putting one foot in front of the otherlearning this bit of intricate choreography and doing these lines.

“I think that’s a way to approach to all sorts of things in life - if you break them down into really small steps then you won’t get overwhelmed - and eventually you’ll look back and realise you’ve climbed a mountain.”

Stephen said both of his idols didn’t disappoint when it came real life either, describing John as nice, curious and “still silly and playful”, while Eric was “very

Unveiling rich history in ‘Snow, Fire and Gold’

AUTHOR Stephen Whiteside will discuss his latest work, ‘Snow, Fire and Gold’, at the Wangaratta Library on Wednesday, July 24.

The book chronicles the captivating lives of Bill Spargo and Evelyn Piper in the Australian mountains above the snow line near Mt Hotham.

Stephen Whiteside, a writer and avid walker and skier of the Australian mountains, encountered Spargo’s Hut in 1982.

Struck by its remarkably preserved state, Whiteside

meticulously documented the hut, creating a comprehensive photographic inventory and ensuring its recognition by Heritage Victoria.

Drawing from extensive interviews conducted over nearly two years, Whiteside unveils the history of Spargo and Piper, offering a compelling narrative that will resonate with history enthusiasts and those fascinated by Australia’s natural environment.

“We are thrilled to host Stephen Whiteside and explore the rich history he has uncov-

ered in ‘Snow, Fire and Gold’,” Wangaratta Library coordinator Loueen Twyford said.

“This event is an opportunity for our community to delve into the stories that shape our local heritage.”

Stephen’s author talk at the library will be held on Wednesday, July 24 from 2.30pm.

Bookings are essential via https://events.humanitix.com/ host/wangaratta-library or by contacting library staff on 5721 2366 or email library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

pleasant and charming”, complimenting the performance in Spamalot.

“I was just on cloud nine - it was wonderful,” he said.

Letters From My Heroes is a show Stephen designed to be taken on the road and performed anywhere, and so far he’s visited towns including Portland, Beechworth, Wilby and Murtoa.

He’s looking forward to getting to know Edi Upper, thanking fellow comedian Damian Callinan for teaching him how to pronounce it correctly.

Stephen says playing smaller venues give you the opportunity for a little more eye contact and interaction with the audience, with a Q&A session and supper to be held after the show.

“The welcome has been so warm, and the hospitality has been lovely - it’s just an absolute joy,” he said.

King Valley Arts Presents Stephen Hall’s Letters From My Heroes on Friday, July 19 at the Edi Upper Hall, with doors open from 6.30pm.

Tickets are $30 per person which includes supper provided by the hall committee (drinks at bar prices) available from www.kingvalleyarts.com.au or via Humanitix.

Garry Disher to visit Wangaratta Library

AWARD-winning Australian author Garry Disher will visit the Wangaratta Library on Sunday, July 14 at 10.30am to discuss his latest novel, Sanctuary; a compelling standalone work delving into the lives of two women in hiding from dangerous men who are pursuing them.

Renowned for his gripping crime fiction, Disher is a best-selling author, three-time winner of the Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Novel, and has over 50 titles to his name.

The event is free to attend but bookings are essential via Humanitix or by contacting library staff on 5721 2366 or library@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Stephen Hall will present his hilarious show Letters From My Heroes at the Edi Upper Hall on Friday, July 19.

Wangaratta Farmers Market

THE next Wangaratta Farmers Market will be held tomorrow in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 8am until 12pm.

There will be wide range of seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as artisan products from local farmers, producers and makers, plus breakfast rolls and hot drinks.

The Good exhibition at art gallery

THE Good, a major new solo exhibition by artist Anna Louise Richardson, is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

Working primarily in charcoal and graphite, Richardson’s work explores ideas of intergenerational exchange, parenthood and identity based on her experiences of living and working on a multigeneration beef cattle farm in rural Australia.

It explores the complex relationships between humans and the natural world, tinged by grief and the competing demands of nurturing new life, and will run until August 11.

Fearless tapestry weavings

FEARLESS is an exhibition of tapestry weavings by Flossie Peitsch which is open in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery until August 4.

The artist’s textile practice is informed by the history of women’s craft work, particularly the quilting traditions passed down through the matrilineal generations of her family.

Fearless brings together a body of work created over the past

Georgina captures beauty of collage in Cut ‘n’ Paste

By ANITA MCPHERSON

AN exhibition of small works of collage by resident artist Georgina Wills which elevates the humble childhood practice of cutting and pasting has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

It is Georgina’s first solo exhibition at the gallery since becoming a resident artist following her success in the gallery’s inaugural Thirty by Thirty exhibition last year, when her collage of Amsterdam won the viewer’s choice award.

Georgina said she has loved art since childhood and became enamoured with collage after participating in a workshop with illustrator, Ann James, who was experimenting with the technique for her latest book.

“I was inspired - I loved the textures, patterns and shapes that could be created by using paper and other materials,” she said.

“I illustrated my next two stories with collage, and also loved pouring over Jeannie Baker’s books

seven years, informed by her experiences as an educator in very remote Indigenous communities and her close familial relationships, as one of four sisters.

Wangaratta community market

and exploring her stunning collage illustrations.

“I studied Visual Art in VCE and used collage to recreate my kinder photo (a piece that will be on display in this exhibition).

“Over the years I’ve mainly worked in pen and watercolour to create illustrations, but I returned to using collage

THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.

There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.

For more information visit the market’s Facebook page.

in 2022 when I set myself an artistic challenge to collage a gift tag every day of March.

“Thirty-one mini collages later, and the paper snips have kept going.”

Georgina says she loves the textures and layers she can create in a collage, painting the papers she uses and working in small scale so she

can capture tiny details, but it is a slow, time-consuming process.

Her subject matter is inspired by memories, places she’s been and the things she loves (like books).

“I’m still working on the craft of collage so I’m challenging myself - how I can create movement, how I can

capture light and reflection, so I look for source material to explore these challenges,” she said.

During the exhibition, Georgina’s gift tag collage challenge will be on display, along with 10 still life images and 10 landscapes - the most challenging of which is a recreation of Manarola from the Cinque Terre in Italy.

There’s also one of her favourites - two pelicans on an old boat - inspired by a photo her mother took while on holidays.

“I loved the shimmering reflections in the water and I was keen to see if I could create that effect using collage - and I was happy with the result,” she said.

See Cut ‘n’ Paste at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street until July 22, open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm.

Meet the artist during the official opening celebration on Saturday from 12pm, with all welcome.

LAYERED LANDSCAPE: Artist Georgina Wills says she loves the textures and layers she can create in a collage, even capturing shimmering reflections in the water. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Stay on top of your heart health

Men over 50 urged to seek a check-up to detect potential

MEN aged over 50 across the region are encouraged to get a heart health check-up and not to ignore symptoms like chest pains - a GP appointment could help save your life.

St James resident Ken Smith had chest pains and it turned out he had aortic stenosis which would have become worse if left untreated.

Aortic stenosis is a thickening and narrowing of the valve between the heart’s main pumping chamber and the body’s main artery (the aorta).1

Ken has been paying attention to any signs of change with his heart health since having a stent inserted several years ago and his identification of aortic stenosis led to a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) earlier this year.

He’s now as good as gold doing things he loves on his property at St James.

When Ken noticed a shortness of breath and shallow breathing, he didn’t waste any time in seeing his GP to get the necessary diagnostic scans.

“I had a distinct lack of breath after walking back from the bathroom during the night, my breathing was shallow,” he said.

But while Ken is now 81 years old, poor heart health can happen a lot earlier in life and men are encouraged to get at least an annual check-up once they reach 50, an appointment that could identify and fix any problems early.

Dr Julian Yeoh is an interventional and structural heart disease cardiologist at Austin Health and Warringal Private Hospital, and head of Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratories at Austin Health.

He performed the TAVI procedure on Ken and encourages all men to think about their health and live life from the prevention perspective and get that annual check-up.

Dr Yeoh explained that Ken’s aortic valve was wearing and tearing, and he likened the aortic valve as a front door to the heart.

“If it doesn’t open there’s no blood that goes out and that’s why Ken has been breathless and has had chest pain because it couldn’t get the oxygen and blood supply around the body,” he said.

“Aortic stenosis is a very common condition because we’re living longer and 50 years ago people

didn’t live this long, so the front door doesn’t have time for wear and tear.”

The operation to fix aortic stenosis is non-invasive through keyhole surgery and Ken only had to stay in hospital overnight.

“Traditionally when someone has aortic stenosis you have to fix it through open heart surgery but over the last 10-15 years in Australia and worldwide, we’re adopting technology where everything is done through keyhole in the leg,” Dr Yeoh said.

“Ken’s the perfect age for this as he’s very fit and he still could have had open heart surgery, but he would have spent a week in hospital, and he still would have been recovering now.”

Now Ken receives regular electrocardiograms and this makes him feel good as it gives him the peace of mind that everything is okay with his heart.

Dr Yeoh explained the reason why a check-up with your GP is important is that sometimes there aren’t any clear symptoms, especially when people are getting older as they start to slow down in their movement.

He said people don’t know if they’re slowing down because they’re getting older or whether they have something wrong.

A Heart Valve Awareness Week in Wangaratta had 35 people access a free fifteen-minute consult with Dr Yeoh and they had an ultrasound of the heart.

“It allows us to give awareness to the community that this condition exists but also they got an ultrasound that indicated whether they should have a formal ultrasound,” Dr Yeoh said.

“Of the 35 patients we identified one severe aortic stenosis, and one person had an enlarged aorta.

“These are people who would have never seen a doctor.”

Another great development is that Myrtleford GP Justin Donaldson has just received a grant to put in place a high-risk cardiovascular screening clinic.

On a quarterly basis, if he identifies a patient as high-risk, he’ll refer them to Dr Yeoh for a review to look at a cardiovascular assessment.

“From a heart health perspective, it’s a great initiative that’s been funded by the government that allows Dr Donalson to dedicate his

health

problems

time to look at men’s health and cardiovascular health,” Dr Yeoh said.

Men can be proactive about their own health by taking care of themselves by watching their diet and exercising regularly.

Dr Yeoh said men, in particular, are in denial about their health and there is a 3:1 heightened risk for men to have a heart attack more than women.

“Men tend to partake in things that put themselves at risk more including activities like smoking,” he said.

“Traditionally more men used to smoke than women, I think men don’t eat as healthily as women do and men don’t exercise as much as women do.”

Hormones like estrogen is higher in females and helps protect against heart attack by preventing inflammation that contributes to build up of plaque in coronary arteries.

Dr Yeoh said, “We don’t like to go and see doctors, we don’t like to accept that we have medical problems, and we think that it always happens to someone else”.

“A lot of people come to me when they’ve actually arrived at hospital because they’re in heart failure, they’ve got fluid on the lungs,” he said.

“What happens with aortic stenosis is people start to get symptoms and then they fall off the perch.”

In Australia there are a series of screens that people are encouraged to get every year when they turn 50.

One is a calcium score that predicts what your future risk of a heart attack is.

“When plaque in the artery has been there for a long time, just like moss has developed in the pipes of your house, that dictates what your risk of having a heart attack is,” he said.

“If someone has a high calcium, they may be at risk of having a heart attack.”

For a healthy person the recommendations are to partake in moderate intensity exercise for 150 to 300 minutes a week.

However, most younger people don’t have time for that

as this is a half an hour walk or run each day of the week.

Alcohol intake is recommended to be no more than 10 standard drinks a week (six cans of beer).

Dr Yeoh said getting into good, health habits when you’re young can set people up for life.

He said people can be so time poor and they unfortunately opt for the fast-food option which is high in saturated fats.

“But having a healthy diet full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, avoiding red meat because it has a lot of fat in it,” he said.

“Although you need red meat in moderation for iron, fish and chicken are a better option for reduced fats.

“Lay down those habits early and see your GP for blood tests.”

There are other medical conditions like diabetes, being overweight and smoking that can increase risk of heart disease and Dr Yeoh said people in the community should be very mindful of that.

Sponsored by Medtronic 1. Adams, H.S.L., et al., Contemporary review of severe aortic stenosis. Intern

Dr Julian Yeoh checks Ken Smith’s heart health

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Pobble Bonk! The Eastern Banjo Frog

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

AMONG our most common and widespread species of frog in the North East, the Eastern Banjo Frog occurs throughout Victoria, much of eastern New South Wales and into southeast Queensland, south-east South Australia and also Tasmania.

Known also as the Southern Bullfrog, the Eastern Banjo Frog is perhaps best known after its distinctive and familiar call – an explosive resonant ‘bonk’, the note being likened to a banjo string being plucked.

This call may be heard yearround, but males are particularly vocal when they advertise for a female mate, mainly during and after heavy springsummer rains, when they often make a loud chorus at dusk.

Mass spawning events may take place immediately following these rains.

Eggs are laid as a large foamy white mass, floating on the surface of water under overhanging banks or amongst dense aquatic vegetation such as rushes and reeds.

When tadpoles emerge from the eggs, they are largely bottom dwellers, feeding on plant matter and sediment.

Adult Pobblebonk frogs can

be quite large, growing up to 7cm - a little smaller than a tennis ball.

They inhabit a variety of forests and woodlands, especially damp grassy areas around dams, along creek lines and throughout wetlands.

After rains, they spread throughout normally dry farmland areas, taking advantage of flooded paddocks and lowlying dips and depressions.

In dry conditions, they shelter under logs and rocks, usually close to water or moist areas, burrowing into soft soil and leaf litter.

At night, they emerge to forage on the ground, following the typical diet of most frogs, preying on insects, spiders and worms.

In appearance, Pobblebonk frogs look similar to some of the other larger local frog species, such as the Common Spadefoot Toad, but they are distinguished by their creamyorange raised stripe present from the eye to the shoulder and their marbled patterning on their flanks, belly and legs.

to join us at our complimentary SCENIC TRAVEL LOUNGE

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BIG AND BOLD: A Pobblebonk frog on the move after rains.

PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

Holiday fun at Apex Park

By KURT HICKLING

PERCHING HIGH: Frankie Bertuch-Haynes.

SERIOUS: Sebeastian Espinel.

EXCITED: Emily Mayoh.

RUGGED UP: Sarah Smith.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling.

MATES: Lilian Henshall and Skyla Pantling.

HOLIDAY FUN: Issabelle Rosetta.

THE AIR UP THERE: Ethan Rosetta.

Simon’s Olympic ride

BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE LAndersonByrne@ nemedia.com.au

PROUD Myrtleford father, Mike Clarke, is counting down the days to his flight to Paris, France, where he will watch his cyclist son, Simon, compete in his second Olympic Games.

The trip will also begin a three-year-long travel plan for Mr Clarke and his wife, Susan, who have various family dotted around Europe.

Simon himself has lived in Andora, Italy, for 20 years, since he was 19 years old and training with the Australian Institute of Sport.

But, before that, he was simply a 10 year old boy on the Great Victorian Bike Ride with his dad.

“We built a house in the Dandenongs and Selby Primary School that year took a bunch of grade five students and their parents on the Great Victorian Bike Ride,” Mike Clarke said.

“He was sitting level with me the whole way and I was just staggered by his stamina, he was also very interested in building and fixing bikes at a young age so he’s very skilled in the mechanical side of the sport.

“I bought him a better bike and in the following year I was the one trying to keep up with him.

“By the third year he was gone; up first thing in the morning off riding and joining groups of old, experienced riders who at first thought “who’s this kid at the back?” and before long it was “wow, he’s still there!”.”

During the Great Australian Bike Ride he met Olympic gold medalist Dean Woods, who urged him to join a club, so the Carnegie Caulfield Cycling Club gained a new member.

“I got very involved with the club and was president for four years which was fantastic,” Mr Clarke said.

“I was also part of forming the Bicycle Association of

South East (BASE) in Melbourne to educate young children on riding on the road.

“Simon was out on the roads at age 13 and he became very road traffic aware so we wanted to build a local track with road circuits for kids to learn on, and we managed to find space at Casey Fields in Cranbourne.”

Looking back, Mr Clarke said Simon learning track cycling was the best way to start developing his skills.

“You have to learn to control the bike while going as fast as you can, and he’s very good at adapting to things that happen during the action in a track or road race,” he said.

“As he started competing, he was doing quite well

in Australia and in 2004 he made the Victorian team for track before going to the Australian championships for the team pursuit event.

“He figured out he was a great starter; he was light and could get going quickly, and his team ended up winning the junior world championships that year which was huge.

“That same year he was selected for the road race in Canada with the Australian team when he was 19.

“Since them the really big achievements have been winning the fourth stage in the Tour de Spain in 2012, and being the first Australian to win any of the jerseys; claiming the king of the mountains polkadot jersey

in that race.

“He won a stage in the Giro D’italia and also won the fifth stage of the Tour de France in 2022; he’s raced around eight Tour de France over the years but that was the big win he was looking for.”

In 2016, only around two weeks before the Rio Olympics, Simon was told he would be competing at the games after the cyclist he was a reserve for; Simon Gerrans, was injured.

“It was very exciting, and a mad scramble for all of us to book flights to see him race,” Mr Clarke said.

“This time around he was specifically picked for the team and it’s a great trio

they’ve got with Bright local Lucas Plapp and Michael Matthews who he’s supported during competitions before.

“Each of them play a very important part in the team, with each bringing different skills for the six and a half hour race.

“Lucas is a young man with an incredible engine, Michael is great at a finishing sprint and Simon will most likely set him up for that.

“Because Simon isn’t an absolute superstar cyclist he’s learnt to strategise and can finish a race with less energy than people finishing behind him.

“He’s typically a leader on the road in the team

he rides for, not the person who finishes in a race but the one who organises and implements the strategy and adapts on the day.

“Simon has always been a strong individual and very focused on his goals, not just physically but mentally.

“His mental determination and absolute dedication means he’ll do what he sets out to do; that doesn’t guarantee a win every time but he sets his goals and does very well.

“I’ve learnt a lot from him over the years, we’re very proud.”

The Men’s Road Race will be held on Saturday, August 3 at 11am.

Hit the winning run or just had a great day. Get a permanent reminder with great sports shots from The Chronicle

PROUD FAMILY: Mike, Susan, Simon and Danny Clarke at the Geelong Cadel Evans Race in 2023.

OLYMPIAN: Simon Clarke and his son, Nino.

AUSSIE: Simon Clarke with his daughter, Stella, at the Tour Down Under.

SSIESiClkithhi

Small acts make a big impact.

Keep food scraps and garden clippings out of landfill.

Using your green bin correctly means your organics can be turned into mulch and compost. This reduces the amount of waste going to landfill, keeps our soils healthy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au

SHOWCASING DEVELOPMENT

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNISING EDUCATION

Fresh thinking with youth employment

HIRING young people

can be a great way to unlock the potential of youth and create a more productive and innovative workplace.

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT:

With support from CVGT Employment,

and his employer are

the

ts of

The local and experienced CVGT employment team here in Wangaratta is ready to help your business to succeed.

By providing young people with the right guidance, support, and opportunities, businesses can help to create a brighter future for our society.

Andrew Frasco’s story is a great example of

this approach, securing employment as a school gardener.

“We had a staff member describe Andrew as a ray of sunshine, which I thought was a perfect description,” assistant principal Melissa

Mackellin said.

“He is a wonderful asset to the team.”

Contrary to many misconceptions, young people can bring ideas, experience and energy to their workplace, offering a

new perspective on how a business operates.

CVGT Employment’s Workforce AustraliaTransition to Work program ensures businesses and young people aged 15-24 get the support they need, with training, wage subsidies and post-placement support available.

If you would like to learn more about how your business can benefit from an injection of youth, visit cvgt.com.au or call 132 848.

If you’re a local business seeking staff or a young person looking for work, we’re to connect you.

Andrew Frasco

reaping

benefi

investing in youth employment. Pictured are gardener John Zito, participant Andrew Frasco (behind), facilities manager James Ausop, and assistant principal Melissa Mackellin.

Follow your passion with GOTAFE

OPEN days are a great opportunity for people considering further study, allowing you to explore subject areas, career paths, talk to careers advisors and make informed decisions about your future.

School leavers can gain an understanding of study and career pathways, find out what areas interest them and learn what tertiary education is all about.

For people who are re-entering the workforce, looking for a change in career direction or returning to study, open days provide an opportunity to experience different fields and learn about pathways into university.

Tristan Andrew is currently completing a Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220) in Wangaratta.

“I really enjoy coming to GOTAFE,” he said.

“I get along with everyone in my class and we all learn so much.”

Tristan enjoys the variety that comes with completing a trade.

“Every day is different,” Tristan said.

“You are always learning something new, which is great.”

A highlight for Tristan during his studies has been GOTAFE’s industry experienced trainers.

“The trainers here at GOTAFE could not be any better,” he said.

“They just have this way of explaining everything so well.

“Sometimes at work everything is a bit rushed, but not at TAFE.”

No matter how challenging juggling study and work gets, Tristan’s passion for what he does shines through.

“I really enjoy coming to GOTAFE,” he said.

“I get along with everyone in my class and we all learn so much.”

GOTAFE is holding a series of Open Days during August, giving members of the community the chance to learn more about career and education opportunities.

Seymour (Wallis Street)

Saturday, August 10 from 10am – 1pm.

Wangaratta (Docker Street)

Sunday, August 18 from 10am – 2pm.

Shepparton (Fryers Street)

Saturday, August 24 from 10am - 2pm.

Whether you are just starting out in your career, aiming for a career change, upskilling or seeking professional growth –you’ve got this.

Visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au to learn more, register for GOTAFE’s Open Days, or browse course offerings.

EXPLORE CAREER PATHS: Tristan Andrew is currently completing a Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220) in Wangaratta and is passionate about what he does.

1 STOP Driving school has recently changed its name to 1 Stop Training Centre.

While they have rebranded, they will still have the same staff and offer the same service as they did previously.

With campuses in Wangaratta, Bundalong and Barmah, 1 Stop Training Centre is centrally placed to deliver high quality training.

They take pride in offering and delivering training and assessment in the fields of civil construction plant operations and driving operations, and as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #46133) 1 Stop has earnt a reputation as a leader in the provision of flexible and innovative services.

These courses, among others, are currently running and can help get you where you want to be.

Certificate III in Civil Construction

Plant Operations

Build your career as a trade qualified plant operator with this nationally accredited course.

Learn how to safely operate plant equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, skid steers and rollers, as well as working on exciting civil infrastructure projects, White Card and First Aid topics and more in a booming industry.

In this course you will learn how to not only operate heavy machinery required to be a plant operator, but also how to work safely and understand the workplace specifications.

Truck licence

There is a range of truck driving licence courses from multi combination to light ridged.

All of their truck driving courses take you through every step from basic controls of the vehicle to managing hazardous situations.

Whether you need a licence to drive a smaller truck or a truck with additional trailers, 1 Stop has got you covered.

1 Stop’s goal is to provide students with a safe, fair and supported environment to participate in their training and assessment, and to ensure they are confident and job ready.

If you are currently employed in, or want to enter sectors such as civil construction (plant operations), forestry or timber, road transport, driver training and licence endorsement, materials handling, industrial licensing or maritime, 1 Stop Driving School can help you get the qualifications you need to succeed.

For more information visit: https://1stopdrivingschool.com.au/.

Start your career with high quality training

Discover careers in health

DREAMING of a rewarding career in

Want to explore local opportunities in the health field?

If you’re a year 10, 11 or 12 student and interested in a career in health, you’re invited to this inspiring day of career exploration.

Hosted by Charles Sturt University, the uni with a unique 40-year history in healthcare education, this forum offers secondary school students the opportunity to dive deep into careers in health.

What’s on?

The forum includes a series of workshops and lab simulations from health professionals, exhibits from health education providers and regional health employers, and a Q and A panel with tertiary health and medicine students.

Students can choose between 20 different healthfocused workshops to attend, learning directly from local practitioners and clinicians about the many pathways toward a career in health.

Workshop topics include paramedicine, nursing, nutrition, occupational

therapy, medicine, physiotherapy, midwifery, social work, mental health, speech pathology, alcohol and drugs, and more.

A dedicated exhibition space will also give you the opportunity to talk directly to local health providers, employers and educators, and get all your questions answered.

Partnerships with purpose

The North East Health Careers Forum 2024 is a collaboration between Charles Sturt University, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Gateway Health, Rural City of Wangaratta and GOTAFE, aiming to:

• educate local youth on the diverse range of local health careers;

• inspire them to engage with health as a career;

• grow our own local health workforce for our longterm future.

The North East Health Careers Forum 2024 will be held on Wednesday, August 7 from 9.30am to 2.30pm at Charles Sturt University, 218 Tone Road Wangaratta.

Book your spot by visiting nehealthcareers.com.au.

EXPLORING CAREERS: Charles Sturt University will be holding a forum for those considering a career in the health industry.

Learning opportunities at the Wangaratta Art Gallery

EVERY year at the Wangaratta Art Gallery a few limited placements are made available for secondary school students undertaking workplace learning.

Formative work experience leads to the art industry’s future generation of high skill arts professionals.

These placements are very popular, and it is advisable to get in early so that you don’t miss out.

In the last school term, they had three year 10 students from local schools do work experience at the gallery.

The tasks varied from sitting at the gallery reception desk welcoming audiences, filing archival promotional collateral to visiting local artist’s studios.

This year it included a creative task for students to complete towards the end of the week which was to devise a primary school worksheet that responded to the current exhibition and individual artworks.

This allowed students to not only reflect on the artworks that they encountered but also have something that they could

share with others.

For the current exhibition, The Good, participants will be able to use the materials available to create their own flyswat from cardboard, string and sticks, along with a cloud of flies to swat.

There is an instructional video created by the artist walking you through all of the steps of this activity at the gallery’s creation station.

Throughout the duration of the exhibition, the Wangaratta Art Gallery encourage you to come along and create your own fly swat and flies and then post your creations on your socials.

UNIQUE ARTWORK: Wangaratta Art Gallery’s new exhibition is titled The Good and features artwork created by Anna Louise Richardson including Good egg, 2023, charcoal on cement fibreboard, 50 x 37 cm. PHOTO: Bo Wong

Centre program is providing support for disengaged students

THE Connect Learn Return Program creates a safe and supportive environment for disengaged young people, focusing on their social, emotional, and educational growth.

It’s a new initiative by The Centre that was designed to help disengaged high school students from years 8 to 10 that are over the age of 15 re-engage with education. The program aims to:

• Foster a positive, respectful learning space.

• Support the overall growth of young people.

• Develop skills and behaviours to help young people re-engage with education.

Staff offer:

• Unconditional positive regard for everyone.

• High-quality learning and teaching.

• Individualised support.

Support includes:

• Low student-to-staff ratios.

• Tailored learning adjustments such as differentiated teaching, modified curriculum content, and personalised learning spaces.

The program embraces positive emotions like joy, interest, and love, which promote psychological growth and well-being, aligning with Barbara Fredriksen’s broaden and build theory.

This theory suggests that positive emotions enhance awareness, coping abilities, and resilience, leading to improved health and life satisfaction using the five ways to wellbeing as a framework for support, teaching, and learning:

1. Connect: Building strong relationships for good health and wellbeing. Broadening social networks provides a sense of connectedness and self-worth.

2. Be Active: Physical activity is vital for all ages, boosting mood, health, and preventing illnesses.

3. Keep Learning: Continuous learning is essential for happiness, health, and personal growth.

4. Be Aware: Mindfulness helps manage thoughts and feelings, reducing stress and improving mental health.

5. Help Others: Acts of kindness boost happiness, life satisfaction, and reduce stress.

The team at The Centre are looking forward to bringing this program to life.

“I am excited by the prospect of supporting our young people to re-engage with education and future plans,” trainer assessor, Mary Bird, said.

“I am excited to be working with these young people, to help them gain new skills and feel happy, safe and supported,” support worker, Briony Dickens, said.

NEW EXHIBTION: Visitors to the Wangaratta Art Gallery will be able to create their own fly swats from cardboard based on Anna Louise Richardson’s exhibition, The Good. PHOTO: Bo Wong

RE-ENGAGING STUDENTS: The Centre CEO Sue Geals, support worker, Oliver Morton-Rodaro, teacher, Nalenie Ramjaun, education and support manager Sharee Castagna, teacher/trainer Mary Bird, support worker, Briony Dickins are excited to bring the Connect Learn Return Program to life.

■

SOLID STANCE: 35mm longer overall, 57mm wider, 38mm taller and 120mm longer between the front and rear wheels than the standard GWM Cannon Ute, gives this newbie a solid stance on the street.

GWM Cannon fires first shot in heavy artillery EV campaign

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

The GWM Cannon has become the first full electric utility in Australia, the Alpha Ultra Hybrid muscling in between the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Mac and the full-sized pick-ups from Chevrolet, Ford, Ram and Toyota.

The Cannon dual cab flagship also strengthens GWM’s New Energy Vehicle strategy, becoming the brand’s sixth NEV offering following the Jolion Hybrid, Tank 300 and 500 hybrids and Ora EV. Coming in three variants with a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, or 2-litre turbo petrol motor, the latter linked with a hybrid powertrain, all are mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4—4 system.

Prices start at $51,990 for the Cannon Alpha Lux diesel, the Alpha Ultra diesel comes in from $57,990, while the hybrid Alpha Ultra takes flagship honours from $64,990. All are drive-away prices.

All are covered by the maker’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights, a 360-degree camera, dual zone climate control, locking rear diff, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 12.3-inch information screen, wireless smartphone mirroring, six speaker audio, power adjustable driver’s seat, leather-style upholstery and 18-

inch alloy wheels.

The Ultra grade adds panoramic sunroof, 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, heated, ventilated, massaging front seats with power adjustment, while the Ultra Hybrid takes on head-up windscreen display, power folding exterior mirrors with memory, semi-automatic parking assist and auto reverse assist.

GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid buyers enjoy a sevenyear, unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years roadside assist and five years of capped price servicing.

STYLING

As mentioned above, the new Cannon Alpha leaves the opposition (literally) in the shade, with dimensions of 5445mm long, 1992mm wide, 1924mm height, and 3350mm wheelbase, and 35mm longer overall, 57mm wider, 38mm taller and 120mm longer between the front and rear wheels than the standard GWM Cannon Ute .

This gives the newbie a solid stance on the street and the test vehicle’s black paintwork offers maximum contrast, with just enough chrome work, and LED headlamps.

The tailgate holds a few surprises. The whole soft-open gate folds down at the press of a button in the centre of the GWM hallmark. Touch the same button for a second and the 60/40 gate opens barn door-style for ease of loading and unloading the tub.

INTERIOR

Nappa leather upholstery and heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats are complemented by a heated steering wheel, plus two-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated rear seats with welcome function and wireless phone charger.

Rear leg and head room are generous and occupants can take advantage of a panoramic roof and sliding rear window as in the Nissan Navara for extra ventilation.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The range-topping 2-litre turbo petrol hybrid engine delivers a combined 255kW of power and 648Nm of torque against 135kW and 480Nm of the 2.4-litre turbodiesel. Both are hooked up to a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive with lock-up front and rear differentials.

The Ram 1500 V8 pick-up has been available with a mildhybrid system for some years.

This is no mild hybrid where the electric motor only assists the internal combustion engine and cannot drive the wheels without using the ICE, as with the Ultra Hybrid.

SAFETY

No word on the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid ANCAP safety rating yet but the GWM Tank 500 SUV, which shares much of its platform and cabin with the Alpha ute was recently

awarded a top five-star rating by ANCAP.

Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, front and rear cross-traffic assist, lane-keep assist, lane centring, emergency lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition and surround-view camera with transparent chassis mode.

Cannon diesels have four parking sensors up front and four at the rear, while the Ultra Hybrid has six up front and six at the back.

The Alpha offers seven airbags, including a front-centre bag between the driver and front-seat passenger.

DRIVING

First up, just a word about the ‘voice of the vehicle’: Has driving come to this?

During time with the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid the person behind the wheel (and passengers) were ‘assaulted’ by a constant stream of inane audio and visual female pleas to ‘concentrate on driving’ for seemingly little reason.

‘Florence’ in the machine even urged the driver to ‘take a break’.

The source of all this ‘evil eye’ was a camera attached to the A-pillar focused on the driver – so distracting.

In the end, this driver could not even bother to seek out a way to switch off the system: too

AT A GLANCE

busy concentrating on driving.

From rest, the turbo-petrol was a tad tardy on the take-up and when engaged had a tendency to lurch off the mark.

On the move, the big fella was relatively easy to get on with, although the suspension had a habit of resisting easy going over blemished bitumen.

Overtaking was capably executed, and light steering came into its own on slow parking manoeuvres, which were not the ‘friendliest’ with such a bulky vehicle.

GWM claims a fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban / highway cycle.

The test hybrid recorded at worst, more than 15 litres per 100 kilometres around town and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres on a trip down the motorway.

Three all-terrain drive modes, eco, normal, sport, are very much set and forget for the driver.

Sport mode reduces throttle power regeneration, while Normal/Eco mode increases decel-

eration of system-regenerating energy.

It can also lock front and rear differentials.

Towing capacity is a healthy 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked.

Wading depth is up to 800mm.

SUMMARY

The GWM Cannon Alpha is big on things like interior space and towing strength, and the Ultra Hybrid frugal on fuel use. On the downside, the touchscreen is not easy to manipulate while on the move.

As for the intrusions of ‘Florence’ in the machine, if that’s artificial intelligence, you can shove it.

Stunning Thoona outlook

NESTLED in the serene township of Thoona, 79 Kirby Street offers a unique blend of modern comfort and tranquil living.

This remarkable property boasts stunning elevated views of the Warby-Ovens National Park, making it a perfect retreat.

The home features a distinctive layout with two wings, providing a sense of space and privacy.

The open plan kitchen and meals/dining area are ideal for family gatherings and entertaining, while the separate living space offers ample storage for all your needs.

Each of the four bedrooms include built-in robes, with the master bedroom enjoying the added bonus of an ensuite.

Central to the home are two Euro Milano wood heaters, adding both warmth and a touch of rustic charm.

The large alfresco area is perfect for enjoying the breathtaking views, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee.

A versatile 9m x 12m (approx.) shed/ workshop with two 3m roller doors provides abundant space for hobbies, projects, or additional storage.

The property is serviced with 53,000 litres (approx.) of rainwater storage, ensuring a sustainable water supply.

Situated on approximately 1.22 hectares, this property offers ample outdoor space for gardening, play, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

This stunning Thoona outlook presents a rare opportunity to own a slice of paradise in North East Victoria.

Contact the team at Garry Nash & Co. today to arrange your private inspection today and experience the beauty and tranquillity of 79 Kirby Street, Thoona.

Wangaratta branch

76 Reid Street

Open weekdays

9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)

1300 004 863 humebank.com.au

WANGARATTA STORE CATTLE

Vernon Terrace

Waldara

Rural City Connection

Customer Service Hours to Change

Councils Customer Service opening hours are changing to better meet the needs of our community. From 1 August 2024, office hours will change to 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday to Friday.

Notice of Intention to Purchase Land

In accordance with Section 112 of the Local Government Act (2020), Rural City of Wangaratta wishes to give notice of its intention to purchase part of the land at 21 Frascas Lane Myrrhee, being part of the land described in Certificate of Title, being Crown Allotment 17, Parish of Whitfield, Vol. 11557 Fol. 656 and shown on the map below. Map not to scale, indicative only

The proposed acquisition seeks to resolve the issue of a Municipal Road encroaching into privately owned land and effectively creating an orphan parcel of land between the road as constructed and the existing road reserve. The purchase will also remove a potential impediment to any future upgrade of the Benalla Whitfield Road.

For all enquiries, please contact Clive Brooker, Asset Officer –Policy & Planning, Community & Infrastructure on 5722 0888 or council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au. All submissions must be received by COB on Friday 2 August 2024.

Wangaratta Library Upcoming Author Events

Sunday 14 July 10.30am...............................................Garry Disher

Wednesday 24 July 2.30pm ........................Stephen Whiteside

Thursday 1 August 6.30pm ............................................Joe Matera

Tuesday 13 August 6.30pm ...............................Margaret Hickey

Wednesday 21 August 2.30pm .....................................Ryan Butta Bookings are essential https://shorturl.at/Lx6zq

Farmers’ Night Out

Calling all local farmers! You are invited to attend this event designed to support the mental health and well-being of our local farmers. Enjoy a complimentary dinner and listen to guest speaker Warren Davies, the Unbreakable Farmer. Thursday 18 July from 5:30pm at the Plough Inn, Tarrawingee. Registrations are essential: https://shorturl.at/EO6tV

Have your say on the following policies via the Connect Wangaratta portal:

Draft Economic Development & Tourism Strategy

Community members are encouraged to participate in shaping the future of our local economy and provide feedback which will be incorporated into the final Economic Development & Tourism Strategy. Comments and suggestions can be submitted until COB Friday 2 August. There will be an in-person drop-in session to assist community consultation. 18 July 1pm – 4pm Foyer Room 4, Government Centre.

Draft Inclusive Wangaratta Plan

Feedback is welcome on the Draft Inclusive Wangaratta Plan which will ensure everyone in our municipality has the opportunity to engage, to prosper, to be supported, and to grow. Comments and suggestions can be submitted until COB Friday 26 July

Wangaratta Community Sporting Forum

Join our special Good Sports Wangaratta forum for insightful conversations, valuable information, and practical tips to support your club members to lead a healthier lifestyle. Hosted by Good Sports, AFLNEB and Sport North East. Mon 15 July 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. HP Barr Community Centre, Schilling Dr, Wangaratta. This event is free, registration is essential. https://shorturl.at/J5ePT

Bangerang Community Day

You are invited to attend this free family day in celebration of NAIDOC Week. There will be Sharing of Bangerang culture, dancing, traditional craft workshops, wildlife display, kids’ activities, and free lunch!

This event is a collaboration between Council, Bangerang Aboriginal Corporation, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education and Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation Friday 12 July from 10:30am-2:30pm Northern beaches, Scout Hall on College Street Wangaratta

Tenders

Road Condition Assessment 57469 Annual Road Reseal Program

Tenders close at 2pm on Wednesday 17 July 2024. 64866 Wareena Park Oval Upgrade 65399 Redcamps Bridge Renewal 65293 Carboor & Whorouly South Road Reconstruction Tenders close at 2pm on Wednesday 24 July 2024.

Further details may be obtained by visiting Council’s website.

Planning Applications

Application No

PlnApp24/100

Location 113 Cruse Street Wangaratta

Proposal Use and development of the land for eight display homes, reduction in car parking requirements and display of signage.

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. All submissions must be received by COB 30 July 2024.

Positions Vacant

For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

BEAUTIFUL 3 piece lounge suite plus other furniture, manchester patchwork and craft supplies, plants, tools both power and hand, all must go.

3 McAuliffe Place, Wangaratta, Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14, 8am-3pm.

WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

Beechworth

Support Officer

Beechworth Permanent, part time (8 hours per week)

$37.34 - $42.62 per hour

MOVING house clearance, everything must gvo! Household, fishing, camping, motor vehicle and caravan parts, and a camper trailer.

61 Clarkes Lane, Wangaratta on Saturday, July 13, 7am start.

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

FIREWOOD mixed loads, bulk orders only. Ph 0448 933 999.

CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

FRANK’S Dog Training, behavioural solutions. Ph 0418 314 610.

GUTTER CLEANING, hedge trimming, cleaning, pruning, garden tidy up, rubbish removal, odd jobs, 25 years trade experience. Phone Michael 0412 857 771.

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

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

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $30 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

FUSION HIGH BACK PRESSURE CARE

CHAIR, as new, grey, easy clean, 250kg rated, adjustable back rest position and seat height, pulls apart for transport, new price $1600 selling for $1200. Ph 0438 622 450.

LEATHER couches, excellent condition, top quality $495,Pair Retro Kriesler Radiogram, good working order, $250. Ph 0478 162 069.

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

Applications close 4pm Sunday 28 July 2024.

Visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/jobs to download the position recruitment kit and view instructions on how to apply.

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au

by e-mail to wang@austprimelamb.com.au

Full Time Classroom Teacher Starting in Term 3, 2024

Are you an enthusiastic and dedicated educator looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a nurturing and values-driven school environment?

St Joseph’s Benalla, with a rich history spanning over a century, ison the lookout for an exceptional full-time, fixed-term classroom teacher to join our vibrant educational community in Term 3, 2024

We can offer you:

•Potential for the position to be ongoing can be negotiated at interview.

•The ability to teach in modern facilities with contemporary learning spaces and facilities to encourage creativity and collaborative practice.

•A teaching position within a welcoming and supportive team of educators.

•A nurturing environment that promotes hope, respect, responsibility, and reconciliation.

•Opportunities to contribute to the holistic development of our students, addressing their spiritual, social, emotional, academic, and physical growth.

To Apply:

Please email your cover letter and resume (Supported by 3 verbal referees) to Principal Mary Dunstan: mdunstan@SJBenalla.catholic.edu.au

www.sjbenalla.catholic.edu.au APPLICATIONS CLOSE: Monday 22nd July 2024

EMPLOYMENT

Casual Warehouse/Forklift Operator

Experience required, immediate start.

roles in our busy winery warehouse, which is based in Milawa, Northeast Victoria.

About us: Brown Family Wine Group, a family-owned multi brand wine business, is one of Australia’s most loved and trusted wine companies. With premium vineyards in Victoria and Tasmania, our family of wines has grown to Ridge and Innocent Bystander. We are looking to develop our business through our diverse and exciting portfolio. About the role: This is a crucial role which has shared and materials to support business requirements across the are dispatched on time and quality standards are met. What’s required: You will be an experienced forklift operator shift work. Ideally, you will have basic computer skills and warehousing principles and practices would be a bonus. You

If you enjoy a busy warehouse environment and possess the attributes outlined above, we would love to hear from you.

Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or by calling (03) 5720 5500

Scan the QR code and APPLY!

Advertising Sales/Account Manager (Print & Digital)

North East Media Pty Ltd

Wangaratta Division VIC

Sales Representatives/Consultants (Sales) FULL TIME

About North East Media (NEM)

NEM is an independent family owned media company with community and farming newspapers, magazines and websites across North East VIC, Southern and Central NSW.

Our Wangaratta Division is responsible for a group of regular print and digital publications, including the Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser. We also have special publications, including North East Living Magazine, North East Tourist News, North East Farmer, Southern Farmer, North East Kids and Footy Focus.

Who are we looking for?

The Wangaratta Division is looking for a driven and committed individual to join our advertising sales team, responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales.

The ideal candidate will have:

• At least 2 years’ sales experience (sales of advertising in multi-media is a plus, not essential)

• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow

• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries

• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones

• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our NEM Synergy CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets

• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns

• A motor vehicle and a current driver’s licence

What are we offering?

A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions. How to apply

If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, forward your resume and covering letter before 5.00pm on Friday, 12 July 2024 to:

Kevin Spendier

Advertising Manager

kspendier@nemedia.com.au

HANDY Person, farm house maintenance, generator welding, handy in all, let me help you! Call Bree 0427 076 144.

LOST silver and mauve stones broach, Rowan Street, Tuesday, June 16, reward. Ph 5721 4580.

HOLDEN Colorado LX, 2009, crew cab, petrol, automatic, 165,600km, rego t ill March 2025 (WXH019), RWC (pending), $14,000. Ph 0417 326 739.

LANDCRUISER 2014, Dual Cab V8, Diesel, 100ltr extra fuel tank supported b y new springs, raised centre console, electric winch, cruise control, camper annex attached, low km’s 116,500km, immaculate condition, rego to February 2025 (1CF 1XR), $100,000 ono. Ph 0428 367 743 or 0428 212 051.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer ES CJ, Auto Odo 182,013km, 4cyl 2.0L petrol, 6 speed constantly variable transmission, Reg (YTT860), expir y December, 2024, $7,500. Ph 0490 388 939.

SUBARU Impreza sedan 2006 model, 70,000km, 1 owner, runs well, good condition, RWC, registered till January 2025 (TZA175), $8500. Ph 0400 927 274.

HOLDEN Commodore sedan 2000, Olympic model, reliable, body needs work, (QAO524), $1000, located in Wangaratta. Ph 0402 184 262.

If you don't use it...

PACKAGE Deal, for genuine sale 2004 Ford F250, 7.3ltr Diesel, 292,000km, has near new bravo a/t Maxxis 980 tyres, plus 2 spares on back, rear camera, rear airbag suspension, 274ltr fuel capacity plus 100ltr tank under rear canopy, rear slide on picnic table, central locking system, Hayman Rees tow ball, top winch to help load the boat, plus 15,000 pound bull bar winch, lots storage includes 2x60ltr fridge slides, plus boat motor slide, 2 large draws in canopy, lots storage above canopy and below 3x120 Uni solar panels, has pro star solar controls wired ready to go, 4 glass matt batteries, plus built in charger, built in compressor. Side steps and bull bar all aluminum, driving lights CB radio, electric brake system to suit caravan, fully serviced and will sell with road worthy. Caravan, 2004 Kedron Cross Country, made in Brisbane, 20ft inside, electric brakes, pullout awning, has matching wheels as the F250, dual axle plus 2 spares. 2 x jerry can holders at rear, in front bin has 4 x glass matt batteries, pro star solar controls invertor, has 4x120 Uni solar panels on roof, tv antenna, fold up side cooking table built on side, steps that fold up on the door, single beds with inner spring mattresses, wired for CPAP machines x 2, lots storage cupboards, built with Tasmanian oak, 4 burner stove with grill and oven, 240ltr Vitri Frigo, full sink, wired for TV, reverse cycle air con, Island bench table with storage under seats, storage under beds, brand new elec and gas hot water service (never used), water filters and hoses, electric legs, A-Trail Jack plus ockie wheel, 2 wind stiffeners pegs and mat (outside 8x4m) original tyres and rims for caravan, out door shower, 5 water tanks, one tank for drinking only, carpet or vinyl flooring, wired for 12 volt or 240 volt, full annex plus extra plus sun shade, never used, new wheel bearings (never used), 2 gas bottles, front bin and generator compartment, very clean and neat, has lots of extra’s as well. $139,900 ono package deal, will consider splitting, but they do compliment one another. Boat not included. Ph 0427 936 630.

Wedding Anniversary

To my wife

Judy Rickard, I love that kiss in the morning and that one at night more than I did 55 years ago. Love ya Darl ~ Terry.

ADAMS, Norma.

8/9/1930 – 8/7/2024

Loving wife to Noel (dec). Much loved mother to Gaylene (dec), Kerry (dec), Glen (dec) and Colin. Adored grandmother to 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Formally resided at 53 Donald St then Rangeview Nursing Home. Appin Park Kinder Assistant for 18 years.

‘A person who loved God and served Him to the best of her ability. Someone who was very thankful for the many blessings received throughout her life and for receiving from God the strength to face the sorrows along the way, and thanking Him for all happiness I received in my life, especially the love of my family.’ Norma leaves behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and unshakeable devotion. Your love and strength will never be forgotten.

FISCHER, Clarence Maurice “Clarrie”. Passed away peacefully at home July 3, 2024. Aged 96 years.

Loving husband to Margaret (dec). Eldest son to Karl and Dorothea (both dec). Brother to Frances and Neil Addinsall | (both dec), Allan (dec) and Sue, Reg and Kath (both dec), Lorna and Ewen Hunt (both dec). Father to Kaylene, Janelle and Tania. Grandpa to Teagan, Luke and Dusty. Great-Grandpa to 9 great-grandchildren.

Without goodbye, you went to sleep, but precious thoughts are ours to keep. A tender thought that brings a tear, a silent wish that you were still here. With love and cherished memories. Loved father of Kaylene, loved father in-law of Peter.

We think of you every day, carrying your memory along our way. For it is in our hearts, we will always be together. With loved and cherished memories. Loved father of Janelle, loved Grandpa of Teagan and Jarrod, Luke and Dakota.

Loved Great-Grandpa of 9 great-grandchildren. classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Phone: 03 5723 0101

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

FISCHER, Clarrie.

Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Allan (dec) and Susan, loving Uncle of Michael, Nicholas, Jacquely, Daniel and their families.

Dearly loved, sadly missed.

DEATH NOTICES

GARDNER (Semmler), Dorothy Emilie.

27/8/1933 – 8/7/2024 Aged 90 years.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Dot Gardner at Rangeview Nursing home on July 8, 2024.

Dot was the cherished wife of the late Malcolm Gardner, and loving mother of Robyn, Brandon, June and Rhonda. Beloved grandmother to Kelly, Molly, Rachel, Jamie, Zoe, Phoebe, Saxon, James, Mishael, Damon, Adrian, Karen, and great-grandmother to eleven children.

Dot touched the hearts of everyone she met during her lifetime. She was one very special lady who will be dearly missed by all.

The family invites you to celebrate Dot's life on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 11am at North East Funerals in Wangaratta.

Following the service, there will be a burial at Milawa Cemetery followed by refreshments at the Milawa Hall.

GERVASONI (Williams), Meryl.

31/5/1937 - 5/7/2024

Passed away peacefully at St John’s Aged Care.

Dearly loved wife of Rex. Mother of Michael and Debbie.

Goodbye to my beautiful wife for the last 66 years. Always in my heart and will be deeply missed ~ Love always Rex.

Mum, Nanna, a smiling face, a heart of gold, we’re blessed to be part of your life that had so many happy moments and precious memories. We will miss you so very much. ~ Love Michael, Sharene, Matthew, Justin and 3 great-grandchildren

Mum you will be sadly missed, you gave us all so much love and our memories will never fade but grow stronger until we see you again. ~ Love Debbie, Doug, Kevin, Joanne, Vanessa, Steven and 10 great-grandchildren. Forever in our hearts.

GLENISTER, Michael “Mike”.

On behalf of the volunteers and staff of District 23, we would like to offer our sincere condolences to Kristen, Jacqui, David and families.

Mike was an exemplary member who committed more than 33 years of his life to CFA.

Mike was a valued member of both the Wangaratta North Fire Brigade and the Wangaratta Group, holding various positions including: Firefighter, Group Secretary/Treasurer, DGO and Group Communications Officer.

Mike was always reliable, trustworthy and dedicated, with a “can do” attitude and a smile – qualities crucial to the fire ground and the Group and Brigade. You will be truly missed!

GLENISTER, Michael.

The Chair, Board, Management and members of CFA regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to Kristen, Jacqui, David and families.

Michael was a dedicated serving member with 33 years combined service to both the Wangaratta North Fire Brigade and the Wangaratta Group until his passing.

KELLY, Elizabeth Mary.

10/3/1933 – 11/7/2024

Passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s Nursing Home, Wangaratta.

Aged 91 years.

Much loved wife of Brian (dec) for 67 years.

Mother of Thomas, Damian and Justin. Mother-in-law to Mary-Ann, Marie-Andree and Michelle. Grandmother of Jack, Sam, Maddie, Eliza, Jimmy and Eva.

Daughter of James and Vera Walshe (both dec).

Sister of Margaret, Mary, Bernadette (dec), Patricia (dec), Jim (dec), Denis and Martha. A life dedicated to her family. A private funeral will take place at a later date.

Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

KEOGH, Beverley Frances “Bev”.

Passed away at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Sunday, July 7, 2024. Aged 85 years.

Loving wife of John (dec).

Loved Mum of Suzanne.

Adored Nan of Sarah, Jacquelyn (dec), Ashley, Celina, Damian and their partners.

Cherished Nana Bev of Siannah (dec), Chase (dec), Casey and Madeline. Forever in our hearts.

God’s love is all around us Mum, You always did your very best, Your heart was true and tender, You simply lived for those you loved, And those you loved, remember.

~ Love always Suzanne.

Nan,

Thank you for all the amazing memories we shared and for all the love you gave. You were an inspiration to me; you taught me to live and treasure every moment. Your positive outlook on life was so uplifting and your sense of humour and fun character made every moment a blessing.

I love you so very much Nan. May the winds of love blow softly, And whisper for you to hear, That we will love and remember you, And forever keep you near. Goodbye for now, but not forever. Until we meet again. ~ Love forever and always Sarah xx.

Nana Bev, Thank you for the yummy cakes and treats that you would make us. Thank you for all the love, fun, laughs and special stories you would share with us. You were such a special Nana Bev to us. We love you so much and will keep these memories forever in our hearts. ~ Love Casey and Madeline xx.

Nan,

To us you were someone special, Someone good and true, You will never be forgotten, As we thought the world of you. Cherished memories.

~ Love forever Ashley and Renae.

Nan,

You will forever hold a very special place in our hearts.

~ Love Celina and Andy.

Nan,

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. You will never be forgotten, You will always hold a place in my heart.

~ Love Damian.

As per Bev’s wishes, a private funeral has been held.

Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

SCHULTZ,

June.

16/8/1933 – 5/7/2024

To our beloved Mum, We are honoured and privileged to have you as part of our lives. Your determination, resilience and all your strength you have showed us through your journey of your life we have shared with you. Our hearts are broken, forever in our thoughts of beautiful, amazing memories you have left us to treasure. Adored and cherished mother of Peter (dec), daughter-in-law Teresa xxx.

Our beautiful and loving Nanna and NannaNanna, You made such an impact on our lives that nobody can replace. You have left us with so much love. Forever in our hearts.

~ Emily, Jessica, Simon, Ryan, Annie and Andrew xxx.

SCHULTZ, June.

16/8/1933 – 5/7/2024

In loving memory of my mother, I’ve been left with a broken heart, but with loving memories that will last forever. Nothing will fill the void you left in my now broken world. You were always true to me, thank you my special darling. ~ Forever in my heart and thoughts, your loving daughter, Lynne. First my mother, forever my friend xx

We are absolutely devastated, and our hearts are broken for our Nanna and her great-grandchildren’s NannaNanna.

You are such a special part of our lives and so loved and always there for us all.

You filled our hearts with so much joy with all the time and memories we had with you and our Pop, thank you from the bottom of our hearts you will be forever missed and cherished. Always in our thoughts.

~ Love Adam, Chris, Tammy, Isabelle, Katie, Claire, Alivia; Hailey, Ben, Sophie, Regan, Nate and Lottie xxx

ADAMS

A funeral to honour the life of Norma Adams will be held at the Wesleyan Methodist Church, Great Alpine Road, Wangaratta on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 commencing at 11.30am. Burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery will precede the service at 10.30am.

FISCHER

A funeral service to honour the life of Clarence Fischer will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, 7 Orwell Street, Wangaratta commencing at 11am on Monday, July 15, 2024 followed by burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

GERVASONI

The funeral service to honour the life of Mrs Meryl Gervasoni will be held at the Myrtleford Uniting Church, corner of Great Alpine Road and Albert Street, Myrtleford at 11am on Friday, July 19, 2024 followed by burial at Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery.

classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101 Remember your loved one in a lasting way The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of

BARASSI, Carl. 4/4/1939 - 6/4/2024

We would like to thank everyone who sent food, cards, phone calls and support to our family on the passing of our beloved father, father-in-law, Pop, and Great-Pop Carl Barassi. To North East Funerals for their wonderful care and support To the Flag Pole cafe for their beautiful catering and their ongoing care and support. Please take this as our thanks to you all. ~ The Barassi family.

BODSWORTH, Raymond. 14/7/2012. Too dearly loved to ever be forgotten. -Lynnie.

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

SATURDAY, July 6

Ladies’ 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Marilyn Pane c/b from Marion Hunt 34.

Ball Winners: Marion Hunt 2 balls 34, Frances Duffy 33.

NTP: 4th Val Ellis, 8th Linda Stone, 13th Mary Jones, 17th Chris Boseley.

Saturday, July 6

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford

A Grade: Daniel McPhee 38.

B Grade: Alan Sands 33.

C Grade: Sam Richards 37.

D Grade: Robert Hancock

33.

Ball Winners: Gordon Patterson 34, Aaron Kungle 33, Mark Flack 33, Allen Bastin 32, Attila Kungle 32, Stephen McNaughton 32, Robert Voss 32, Nigel Cooper 32, Noel Holmes 32, Andrew Walker 32, Ian Mills 32, Alex Jones 32, David O’Connor 31.

NTP: 4th Michael Lugg, 8th Sam Richards, 13th Adam Anderson, 17th Joe Marjanovic.

Sunday, July 7

Stableford

Winner: Glenn Ryan 36.

Ball Winners: Felix Gamze 35, Joe Marjanovic Jnr 34, Trevor Morris 34, Mark Dean 32.

NTP: 4th Joe Marjanovic Jnr, 8th Daryl Johnstone, 17th Glenn Ryan.

Monday, July 8

Stableford Vets

A Grade: Neville Hogan 31.

B Grade: Ric Chivers 33.

C Grade: Barry Adams 35.

Ball Winners: Chris Norris 34, Rog Henderson 31, Andrew Walker 31, Alan Sands 30.

NTP: 4th Alex Gibbs, 8th Michael Monro, 13th William Slade.

Wednesday, July 10

Men’s 9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Joseph Marjanovic 18.

Ball Winners: Alan Sands 2 balls 16.

NTP: 13th Ray Gibbs. Wednesday, July 10 Men’s 18 Hole Stroke

A Grade: Glenn O’Connell +4.

B Grade: Martin Van Rhee -1.

C Grade: Peter Ford +1.

Ball Winners: Pat Grady 2 balls +1, Atilla Kungle +3, Rob Hancock +4, Ian Wiedeman +6, Glenn Hunt +6, Brian Wallace +6.

NTP: 4th Peter Ford, 8th Sam Richards, 13th Ian Mills, 17th Pat Grady.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

Tarrawingee Golf Club results Saturday, July 6 2024.

The members played for the July Monthly Medal which was won by Mark Nolan 81/12/69 runner up Lindsay Steer 91/22/69.

NTP: 2nd Mark Nolan, 4th Manny Tanirau.

Golf to be played Saturday, July 13 will be the Foursomes Championships, there will also be an event for the Ladies on the day.

Starting times are 11:30am registration for a 12:00 noon start, ladies welcome.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.

WANG CROQUET

Results for Monday, July 8 are as follows:

Andy Barbero and Terry Wilson d Elise Downes and Gavan Kelly 7/1, Maureen O’Keefe and Nathan Reynolds d Janet Kelly and Cheryle Beckley 7/5, Christine Ireland d Margaret Bennett 7/5.

Also on Monday, members trialed Advantage Handicap play and most quite enjoyed it.

In Advantage Handicap play, participants start with a positive or negative score, rather than getting extra turns.

Play is on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1.00pm.

Visitors are welcome to

come down and enjoy some games with our members.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

WARBY WALKERS

Saturday, July 6

Mansion Loop, Stanley Forest

Fifteen very keen walkers set off up Red Hill track after meeting at the “mansion”

site about one km east of the Beechworth township.

We ambled along many beautiful bush tracks and fire trails in the Stanley Forest such as the Kerferd, Middle, Gum Tree Ridge and the Running Creek tracks.

The steep climbs slowed a few people somewhat, but our group of hardy souls overall really enjoyed the company, many and varied bird calls and the gorgeous bush scenery on this easy walk.

The leader’s superbly delicious fruit cake was consumed in near Olympic record time when afternoon tea was taken back at the mansion site.

Coming events

Sunday, July 21

Mount Wombat and Polly McQuinn’s Weir (Anne, 0427 576 664)

An easy return walk of approx 5.5k on gravel track to Mount Wombat, located at the Mount Wombat Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Climbing/descending approx 150m in elevation, 360degree views, including to Waranga Basin and Goulburn Weir.

Followed by another short walk in the area, and a picnic lunch at Polly McGuinn’s Weir.

Tuesday, July 23

Wenham’s Camp - Mt Warby - Salisbury Track - Alpine Views - Friends Tk (Andy, 0439 209 749)

An easy to medium walk from Wenham’s Camp - Mount Warby - Salisbury Track - Alpine Views - Friends Track and back to Wenham’s.

Walking on the classic tracks in the southern parts of the Warby Range NP.

Well-formed tracks on hilly country, with lots of great views and Grass Trees galore. About 10km in total.

Fun and games at Oxley table tennis

DESPITE numbers being down slightly on recent weeks, 21 players were on a high in participation and social enjoyment at the Oxley social table tennis competition last Monday night.

Arriving first, and last to leave, Katie Woodberry and Debbie Brunken were revved up and raring to go when they took on the ‘Ueber-gang’, Lucy and June, in a long and tough tussle of ups and downs.

Standing tall from the outset, Lucy (in her high heels) and June (in her flats) presented Katie and Debbie with a well-planned but unorthodox approach as they answered the many questions thrown at them.

As expected, much laughter, and groans, followed the outcome of many points fought – final scores saw Debbie and Katie ‘would bury’ Lucy and June’s aspirations of a win.

When the two ‘bearded bounders’, Richard Morgan and Neil Spurgeon, lined up against ‘clean skins’ Adam Bosley and Pete Spring, it was accurately predicted the game and its result would be tight.

Throwing caution to the

wind, as they put their opponents under constant pressure, each player used his power and precision and a fair bit of leaping and bounding for every ball presented.

And as predicted, final scores were close, with one pair winning by a hair’s breadth.

An entertaining match was enjoyed by all was contested when Millie Bosley and ‘Willie’ Bonwick paired up for the challenge with ‘Mr and Mrs’ Mick and Sharlene Gervasoni.

While the ladies concentrated on returning every ball with fine placement, the blokes contributed with muscle power, as each battled hard to unleash the ‘killer shots’.

Scores not recorded, but after a game that had it all, Millie and Willie came away with the biggest smiles.

‘Molly-dook’ Jason Mullins and partner Hugh Spring were on fire when they took on Adam Bosley and the ‘boy from Bob’ Dook Gibb.

With each pair’s determination to run down every ball, the table and surrounding floor shook and shuddered as they covered more

ground than the MCG.

Brawn power plus physical strengths contributed to the ‘ding-dong’ battle that resulted in one pair winning.

As two ‘grey racehorses’ Martin Butcher and Neil Brock, and their respective ‘ponytailed’ lady partners, ‘on-stage performer’ Diane Feldtmann, and ‘never stopped’ Phoebe Morgan, lined up at the table, onlookers were almost afflicted by ‘double vision’.

While the men contributed ‘same but different’ game styles, so too did the ladies, as they fought out an enthralling test of tactics dished up, and devoured one serve at a time.

After displaying all of the ingredients that make the sport so enjoyable, it was little wonder one player reported they felt ‘cooked’ but happy to come out on top.

On hearing on the ‘grapevine’ of the popularity of the weekly competition, Remey Boatwood travelled from Warburton to get first-hand experience for himself.

Partnering Hugh Spring, in a long and skilful duel against ‘ever smiling’ Manni Poulos and ‘picture boy’ Jason Mullins, accurate stroke-

making ensured nothing was left to chance.

And it was this style of play that captured the attention of spectators from the first ping of the ball until Remy and Hugh won with scored reading 21-19.

Concluding another night of enjoyable physical and social interaction, everyone relaxed with a cuppa and a feast of fine foods, while making early appointments for replays 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.

DOWN THE MIDDLE: Arnold Sparks hits his tee shot.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

DOUBLE TROUBLE: Phoebe and Richard Morgan team up at the Oxley social table tennis competition.

Targoora Park U18 baseball championships hit a homer

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE weekend’s Baseball

Victoria Under 18 State Winter Championships held in Wangaratta over the weekend is being lauded as a success by organisers, following two days of exciting baseball from some of the sport’s rising stars.

Hosted by North Eastern Baseball Association (NEBA), and housed at Wangaratta Rangers’ Targoora Park complex, six teams from across the state took to the club’s pristine diamonds to slug it out for victory.

Rangers vice-president Owen Godenzi said it was a brilliant weekend for the club and baseball as a growing sport in the area.

“You pretty much saw the best of regional under 18 baseball you could find,” he said.

“It took a few weeks to get the grounds all ready for it, but because we hadn’t had much rain, they were actually in pretty damn good nick.

“It took lots of volunteers and a lot of effort to get it up and going; we had canteen, we had grounds crew, we had pre-game set ups and post-game closedowns going on.

“We probably had 200, 250 people visit the complex over the couple of days - it would’ve filled up all the hotels in town.

“The weather was kind to us, Baseball Victoria were very appreciative of the ground set-up and they were pretty stoked with how the tournament went, so we couldn’t be happier.”

Geelong and Latrobe Valley were the teams to beat across the weekend, with Latrobe triumphing in a thrilling grand final by a single run.

While the NEBA side only won one of their games, Godenzi said it was a strong showing from the association, given how recently the junior program had been set up.

“We’ve only had juniors back in the North Eastern Baseball Association for the

last five or six years, so for us to even have an under 18s comp is a pretty decent effort for us,” he said.

“We had a lot of underage kids as well, we had a couple of 14 year olds and a few 15 year olds competing too, so for them to get that experience at that level was pretty cool.”

NEBA will now look to this weekend’s under 16 representative matches down in Latrobe Valley, with Godenzi backing the side in to compete against the best.

“We’re heading to Latrobe Valley this weekend with the under 16 rep side, they’ve got 13 kids from NEBA com-

Macklan secures third career victory

By WILLSON MACK

RISING boxer Luke Macklan

recorded his third win in his fifth fight at the Matthew Flinders Hotel in Chadstone on Saturday.

Coming up against Seth Henning who had a 3.5kg advantage, Macklan showed his class with a second round TKO victory.

The 16-year-old started boxing six years ago and has been under the tutelage of Greg Foster at UFA Boxing that whole time.

“Luke’s been with me for six years now and he’s barely missed a session,” Foster said.

“I’ve seen him develop a lot so I’m super proud of him.

“I could tell early on that he had a lot of potential and he’s slowly showing that now the more fights he has.

“In two of his five fights he’s come up against guys who were eight or nine kilograms heavier than him so I’m just super proud of him.” Macklan said he’s enjoying his boxing.

“I’m loving it and I’m keen to keep going,” Macklan said.

“It’s hard work, lots of hours of training – I’m training six days a week but I enjoy the fitness side.” Macklan is now looking for his next opponent as he eyes a fourth win.

“The win was the most pleasing part of the weekend,” Macklan said.

“I pulled up well and only have a bruise on my arm which is good.

“I’m not sure when the next fight will be so we’ll look for a date and go from there.”

peting down there at Morwell and Traralgon,” he said.

“The under 16s side is looking pretty good – most of the kids who played in the under 18s are playing in the under 16s.

“They’ve got a taste of what it’s going to be like, now they’re going to play in their proper age division which should put us in pretty good stead.

“I think we’re taking a fair few of the girls who played in the under 16 girls tournament a couple of weeks ago at Bendigo, and they actually won the tournament, so they’ll help out.”

about the

home

Knights confident in run home

THIS Saturday the Wangaratta Knights are travelling to Mooroopna for their clash against Corowa Cougars in round 11 of the Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership.

Captains of both the ladies’ and men’s teams are feeling optimistic about the next few upcoming rounds leading into finals.

Ladies Captain, Fredericka Allan said the players have embraced the growth the team has made throughout the season thus far.

“There is a strong positive

attitude throughout the club especially after the last three wins,” Allan said.

“Going into the last four games of the home and away season we will continue to bring our positivity to each game and take the next four weeks as they come.”

The evening of Saturday, July 13 also sees The Knights hosting their annual Trivia and Auction night at the Grand Central Hotel. All are welcome to attend, tickets are $10pp with a 6:30pm start.

Knights president Brent Hansen (right) and seniors coach Mathew Ferguson are buoyant

club’s run

to the end of the season.

PHOTO: Adelaide Fitzpatrick

WORLD CHAMP: (L-R) Luke Macklan with former IBF middleweight world champion Sam Soliman, Jane Foster and coach Greg Foster.

WINNER: Luke Macklan (left) secured his third win on the weekend.

READY TO CATCH: Wangaratta’s Josh Wells was named tournament MVP for NEBA.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

HERE’S THE PITCH: Oliver Gray throws out a pitch.

YOU’RE OUT: Ryan Brockwell holds onto a catch in the outfield.

Dragons face tough opponents

IT was a fantastic day for the division three women, who performed well against Wodonga, despite a 3-0 final scoreline.

Hannah Davy was best on ground, for running towards the ball and intercepting the opponent’s passes.

Dragons were forced to play a defensive game against Wodonga.

Wodonga had multiple shots on goal but the Dragons’ defensive barricade was too powerful.

Goalkeeper Carli Notman blocked many flying balls, Lucy North, Brianna Cooper and Brooke Monshing congested the goals stopping Wodonga’s score from rising, clearing balls out of the D.

Unfortunately, Wangaratta was not able to score any goals, nevertheless they hung in strong and gave it their best shot.

The 3-0 scoreline is a marked improvement on their last meeting with Wodonga, which was a 5-0 result.

The division two girls faced a very technical second-placed Wodonga team on the weekend.

The Dragons have had a few challenges over the winter break, with players away in the Australian Masters Competition, people on leave or with injuries, which has altered the normal team line-up.

Amazing additions to the team from the Dragons’ division three and under 16 teams made for a great game full of tenacity from all players down the field.

Whilst Wodonga left with the points and a 5-0 win, there were some incredible plays from a team of mixed divisions and beautiful one-on-one saves from goalie Taylah Coonan.

The division three men faced top of the table Wodonga Maroons at home on Saturday.

With a few players off, it left a reduced team to play the entire game, no subs were available on the day.

The boys showed their

fighting spirit with some great plays passing the ball forwards to Izaac Cameron, however, they were only able to convert the goal attempts once to get the ball across the line.

Goalie Phil Fitzgerald played on the field chasing down the ball and putting his body on the line and the ground to stop the Wodonga forwards.

The defenders had their work cut out for themWes Samson had his best game yet showing great tenacity in going to the ball and clearing it many times out of the D. Wangaratta’s midfield was ably supported by Lachie Rymill playing his first senior game.

Coming up from under 14s is a big step, he was a valued member of the team, and the club is looking forward to seeing more of our juniors come up as their skills and confidence improve.

Unfortunately, they did not come away with the win, but showed the team is improving.

The division 2 men played at home on Sunday and took on the secondplaced team Wodonga.

Right from the start of the game the defence was bombarded by the relentless attacks from the young Wodonga forward line.

With Sam Couche stepping into the high defender position and pushing his father Anthony out to right half, the defence still stood as strong as ever.

Scott Tognola was unstoppable in the midfield, with excellent positioning, consistently disrupting the Wodonga midfield and taking Wangaratta’s best on ground award.

Although the men fought hard and worked the ball forward in attack well, unfortunately they could not find the net, but the relentless Wodonga attack did break through and score three goals – a 3-0 was a great outcome against such a formidable opponent.

Nish to be inducted

into O&M Hall of Fame

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA great Graeme Nish will join Rovers duo Mick Wilson and Mick Nolan in the O&M Hall of Fame next month.

It was announced on Wednesday that Nish, Albury’s Chris Hyde and Lavington’s Matt Pendergast would be inducted into the Hall of Fame next month alongside Wilson, Nolan and Yarrawonga’s Craig Ednie.

Nish, a crafty back pocket played 214 matches for Wangaratta after making his de-

but in 1966 as a teenager.

He went on to playing in the 1976 flag and is a triple best and fairest winner at the Magpies.

Nish played 10 interleague matches and is a life member who was also picked in Wangaratta’s Team of the Century.

Nish said it was a huge honour to be joining the competition’s biggest names in the Hall Of Fame.

“I’m very honoured to be entering the Hall Of Fame and it means a lot to me personally,” Nish said.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity Wangaratta gave me to play in a premier league and play along and against some outstanding players.

“Over the journey you make a lot of lifelong friends which is something that I cherish the most.

“I don’t get to watch Wangaratta as often as I would like these days but I have watched Callum Moore on a few occasions who is one of the better O&M players that I’ve seen play the game.”

HALL OF FAMER: Wangaratta’s Graeme Nish will be inducted into the O&M Hall of Fame next month. PHOTO Mark Jesser (Border Mail)

READY: The Wangaratta Dragons prepare to take the game on.

IN CONTROL: Adara Evans runs the ball down the ground.

FUTURE STAR: Lachie Rymill performed well in his first senior match for the Dragons.

Improvement on the cards for Bulldogs

TARRAWINGEE’s A grade squad will be looking to show how much they’ve improved when they take on Milawa this weekend at the Kennell.

The Demons and Bulldogs haven’t squared off against each other since round four back in April, when Milawa proved 20 goals too strong, 53-33.

After taking last weekend off with the bye, Tarrawingee will be refreshed and ready to test themselves against one of the competition’s top teams.

“Coming off the bye, it’s been great to give the girls

a freshen up leading into what will be a competitive game this weekend against Milawa,” Tarrawingee coach Maddie Canning said.

“Milawa had a convincing win against us early on in the season and we will be looking to play a more consistent four quarter effort

this time around.

“We’ve been able to work on key areas of our game that needed improvement and we are looking forward to the challenge of putting it all together on Saturday.”

Milawa are once again one of the teams to beat, sitting second on the ladder and unbeaten from their 12 matches played.

Additionally, the run home for the Bulldogs is looking fairly challenging, having to face Bonnie Doon and Greta before finals.

Canning said her side looked forward to taking on the best sides in the league

because it helped them improve on the court.

“We’ve got a tough run into finals with Milawa, Greta and Boonie Doon all above us on the ladder and producing some great netball,” she said.

“The benefit though is it also prepares us for lining up against them in finals, and solidifying match-ups and strategies to combat their strengths.

“We will head in as we always do with a positive mindset, trust each other to play our roles and hopefully get the results we are after.”

In other round 15 match-

es, Moyhu and King Valley will face off in a match which could help determine who makes finals.

The Hoppers currently sit one game ahead of the Roos in sixth, but King Valley boast the better percentage. Last time they met, back in round four, Moyhu had the last laugh with a 38-31 win, however the Roos have been playing some scintillating netball in recent weeks and will be eager to correct the record.

With six rounds remaining until the finals, it’s shaping up as a crucial contest for both sides.

Hawks don Indigenous-inspired gear for NAIDOC Round

NORTH Wangaratta’s footballers and netballers will run out onto the field and court in Indigenousinspired jumpers and dresses in the second of the O&K’s two NAIDOC Week fixtures this weekend.

The project has been in the works since October last year, and will look to celebrate not only the club’s current Indigenous players and their families, but all those who have come before.

In recognition of NAIDOC Week, a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony will to be conducted before the senior football match at the North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve from 2pm, led by local elder Kevin Cooper.

“The North Wangaratta Football Netball Club are honoured to present out Indigenous jumper and dress design, which will be worn with pride this weekend during the O&KFNL’s NAIDOC Round,” the club said in a statement.

“The designer is Jesse Cooper of the Moytrabin and Bangerang

people.

“The design shows the meeting of the two rivers – the Ovens and the King – a gathering place for many years.

“It shows the coming together of men and women depicted in the meeting places to create a community.

“Trade routes along the river are cared for and watched over by the spirit bird, the hawk.”

North Wangaratta will need their spirit bird in their corner this weekend, up against ladder leaders Greta in both the senior football and A grade netball.

Indigenous player Josh Nanson said it was an honour and privilege to wear the design and play alongside his family at the club, with brother Tyler and sister Laura Rogers representing the Hawks.

“For me, it’s about coming together as a family and connecting, and finding more out about our story and culture,” he said.

“It’s good to be able to connect through sport and sporting clubs, and show off our culture that way.

“They (the playing gear) look good, by far the best I’ve seen in a while, and it has a lot of meaning behind it.

“It’s good for the community,

and for football netball clubs to show this, it’s good to acknowledge the culture.”

The action at the North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve begins from 9.30am with the under 15 netball, with the reserves football game from 12pm – the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony will be held before the commencement of the senior football match at 2pm.

Must-win for Hoppers to keep finals’ hopes alive

IT’S getting to the pointy end of the season, and if Moyhu’s senior side wants to play finals for a second consecutive year, they need to keep banking points.

The Hoppers sit eighth on the ladder with a record of 5-8 heading into round 15, but if they can build some momentum through a relatively generous run home, Moyhu could still make finals.

Ahead of their bye in round 20, Moyhu face King Valley (sixth), Bright (third), Tarrawingee (10th), Whorouly (ninth), and Goorambat (fifth).

On paper, most of those matches are winnable for the Hoppers, but coach Darren Bell knows his side will have to show up and per-

form on the day.

“Now North Wangaratta lost last week, it gives us a sniff between us, King Valley and North Wangaratta to grab that last spot,” he said.

“It gives us something to aim for for the last five weeks, and if you’ve got to play one of the sides there, it’s like an eight-point game.

“We’ve had a couple of good showings against a couple of good sides, I’m very impressed with our Bonnie Doon game a couple of weeks ago, we were in front until nearly three quarter time.

“Against Bonnie Doon, everyone was just switched on 25 minutes times four, it was amazing.

“We’re trying to get that mentality every week, and if

we all buy in, we’re a chance every game to have a crack.”

Up against a King Valley side who are also trying to book a ticket to September action, Bell said the game would be decided in the midfield.

“Their midfield is their key, and if you look at our midfield, it’s the most experienced part of our structure with ‘Thrummy’ (Matt Thrum), Bailey Zimmermann, Jordie Hansted has been a good inclusion there lately, and Dave McDonald,” he said.

“They’ve gone toe-to-toe with all of these midfielders, and if we can get ahead of the 50-50 range, whoever takes their chances this week will probably end up winning.

“We’re both strong in the midfield, so it’s (down to) our forwards and defend-

ers, and whoever wins out of those on the day will probably win.

“It’s in our hands, if we can turn up and keep performing each week, we could beat the Tarrawingees and the Whoroulys and all of a sudden we’ve got our noses in front.

“I think North Wangaratta and the Valley have a couple of harder games than we have, so it’s in our own hands.

“We’re looking forward to it, it should be exciting, just hope the rain stays away and we can have a good game.”

In other matches this weekend, Bright are at home to Benalla All Blacks, the Bats take on the Bombers at Bonnie Doon, the Hawks host Greta, and Tarrawingee and Milawa go head to head at the Kennell.

IN THEIR HANDS: Dylan Carmody and the Hoppers must win against King Valley this weekend to keep their finals hopes alive. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling.

ON THE HUNT: Maddie Canning will look to lead her Bulldogs to victory over Milawa on Saturday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

THE HAWK’S NEST: North Wangaratta Indigenous players (from left) Tyler Nanson, Josh Nanson, Laura Rogers and Daniel Williams wear their NAIDOC playing gear ahead of this weekend’s game against Greta.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

STORIES

Rovers ready for talented Tigers

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA Rovers can edge further away from the pack with a win over Albury at the Albury Sportsground tomorrow.

Sitting two games clear in second spot and three games ahead of Albury, the Hawks can take a step closer to claiming a top two finish.

But the Tigers pose a massive threat and are gunning for their fourth win on the trot.

Wangaratta Rovers assistant coach Tom Boyd said he’s looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s a huge game and I know the boys are keen to try and put another strong performance in,” Boyd said.

“I feel like we built nicely last weekend and made a few steps in the right direction with how we want to play so now we just need to do that against a quality side like Albury.

“It’s always great to play against good opposition but at the same time we just want to focus on ourselves and the things that make us a good team.”

In a season where Rovers have struggled to turn inside 50 entries into scores, the Hawks flipped that script against Wodonga Raiders last weekend having 20 scoring shots from 58 inside 50s.

“Our conversion from inside 50s was a real positive last weekend and it’s going to be a challenge to try and do that against a side like Albury,” Boyd said.

“Having Eddie (Betts) in the side last week helped that area but it’s something we’ve been working on and we definitely took a step in the right direction.

“Hopefully that area of our game is up and running and we get plenty of bang for buck.”

As always, Albury ruckman Isaac Muller will be closely

watched by Hawks officials as they try to quell his influence on the game.

Muller is in top form and racked up 29 touches, 37 hit outs and 196 ranking points in their clash against Lavington last weekend.

“He’s a quality player and it’s probably not about stopping him because he’s almost impossible to stop but more about just trying to limit his influence as much as possible,” Boyd said.

“We might have to be a bit more defensive with our set ups at stoppage.

“It won’t be up to one player to try and limit him though, it’ll be about the whole 22 trying to set up well.”

The Tigers also boast a potent forward line with former Hawthorn player Mat Walker in-form after a bag of six against the Panthers, while Doug Strang Medallist Jacob Conlan and former

GWS player Lachie Tiziani also pose a threat.

“They’ve got one of the best forward lines in the competition,” Boyd said.

“Mat Walker’s hitting some form lately and everyone expected that to happen because he’s such a good player.

“It’s going to be a great challenge for our backs who have been holding up really well lately.”

Top of the table clash as ‘Pies play Pigeons

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA netballers face a massive challenge this weekend when they host the in-form Yarrawonga at Norm Minns Oval tomorrow.

After surviving a scare by Wodonga last weekend, the Magpies are well aware they’re going to have to be back at their best against the third placed Pigeons.

Yarrawonga have reeled off four wins in a row and Wangaratta coach Shea Cunningham is looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s going to be a massive game,” Cunningham said.

“I’m looking forward to it but I’m also a bit nervous because I feel like Yarrawonga are starting to find some form and are playing some really good netball.

“It’s going to be a tight tussle but hopefully we can get the job done.”

Yarrawonga goaler Kaleisha Pell has been in fine form of late and has shot 239 goals at nearly 78 per cent in 2024.

“Kaleisha Pell’s been shooting the lights out,” Cunningham said.

“She’s one we’re going to have to keep an eye on and try and limit because she’s capable of winning a game.

“Our whole team is going to have to work hard defensively and provide as many turnovers as possible so Yarrawonga aren’t getting it into Kaleisha quickly.”

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers face the last placed Albury and will fancy themselves to grab their third win of the season at the Albury Sportsground.

The Hawks recorded a ninegoal win over the Tigers in round four and will take confidence from that affair.

■ From back page

“Our method won’t be too complex, it’ll just be about doing the basics well and trying to match them.”

Wangaratta have won two of their past three games against finals hopefuls and will quickly find out how they match against the best on Saturday.

“We lost a close one to Rovers and then won close ones against North Albury and Wodonga who were all top five sides when we played them,” Reid said.

“We’re not playing our absolute best at the moment but we’re playing well enough to get the job done and we’ll get an idea of where we’re at on the weekend.”

Up forward Yarrawonga sharp shooter Leigh Williams poses a big threat with 100 gamer James Anderson or Aidan Tilley expected to get the match up.

“’Jimma’ (Anderson) and Aidan Tilley are probably the two that might go to him or Matt Grossman could also play that role,” Reid said.

“They’ve got other dangerous forwards though so we don’t want to get too Williams focused.”

Anderson will play his 100th Wangaratta game in the clash, while Liam McVeigh will play his 50th.

“’Jimma’s been a phenomenal player for the club and the effort he puts in to get to Wangaratta from Torquay every week is ridiculous,” Reid said.

“It’s been great to have him back in the side over the past few weeks and hopefully the boys can get the job done for him.

“Liam McVeigh has been travelling from Melbourne to play for us over the past three years, he’s a trustworthy player, can play anywhere and competes as hard as anyone.”

100 GAMER: James Anderson will play his 100th game for Wangaratta on Saturday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BLOCKBUSTER: Chaye Crimmins’ Wangaratta takes on Yarrawonga in an exciting clash.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BIG CHALLENGE: Tom Boyd is looking forward to facing Albury tomorrow.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Crucial clash for Devils’ finals hopes

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA’S finals

hopes almost rest on this weekend’s clash with Albury City at Jelbart Park.

The Devils sit six points behind the eighth place Albury City who currently hold the last spot in finals and Wangaratta can edge closer with a win on Sunday.

With five games remaining Wangaratta are running out of chances and coach Raff Molinaro is well aware of the stakes.

“We’ve got Albury City and Albury Hotspurs in the next few weeks and they’re in a similar spot to us so if we’re going to make a move it has to be now,” Molinaro said.

“We played Albury City earlier in the season (lost 2-3) when our side wasn’t settled and we weren’t together as a team so I feel like we’re in a better posi-

tion now.

“We had an early send off in that game that didn’t help our chances so I feel like it was a game we should’ve won.”

“It’ll be a tough game and playing them there is always tough because they’ve got passionate fans.”

Molinaro said his side has been working hard on finishing off in front of goal and the Devils will need to take their chances against City who’s goal difference is 14 goals better.

“We’ve been focusing on our shooting a lot, we’ve been doing plenty of shooting drills at training,” he said.

“Sunday’s game marked some improvement in that area and Declan Giddings got on the scoresheet for the first time this year which was great for him and helps his confidence.

“Hopefully we can keep

building on that composure in front of goals and score a few on Sunday.”

The Devils should get Raul Pahina back from an ankle complaint to face Albury City, while Stoycho Ivanov and Jack Whiley may still be a few weeks away.

“Raul was a late out against Melrose on the weekend, he rolled his ankle against Twin City but he should be back,” Molinaro said.

“We got Tom Humphries back against Melrose which was a massive boost at centre back so we’ve got a few boys returning slowly.”

BIG GAME: Tom Humphries shapes as a key player in Wangaratta City’s crucial clash against Albury City.

Albury City offers another chance for Lady Devils

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THIS weekend’s fixture against Albury City presents a golden opportunity for the senior Lady Devils to build momentum through the back end of the year.

After last Sunday’s 0-8 drubbing at the hands of Melrose, and with the side still not at full strength through injuries and unavailabilities, a handy win over the 10th placed Albury City could set Wangaratta up to push through to finals.

With challenging matches still to come against Albury Hotspurs and Cobram Roar, the Lady Devils will need to bank the points when they can.

Coach Terry Masters said he was looking forward to a return to form after last weekend’s Melrose hiccup.

“It’ll be a lot harder

than when we first played them, they’ve had some close losses, and it looks like they’ve improved,” he said.

“It won’t be easy, we’re not going that well at the moment.

“We’ll have Leanne (Branson) back this week, Charlotte (Brundell) is back, so we should get a couple back which should help us.

“Having Leanne will make a huge difference to us, she gives us a bit of physicality too which helps.

“Some of our younger girls are a little intimidated, they’re not used to playing with the physicality because at the junior level it tends to not be there, so they’re still coming to terms with that side of the game.”

Sitting fifth with six matches left to play, there’s still time for the Lady Devils to rise up

the ladder and position themselves well for a run into finals.

“Against a side that’s sitting second bottom, we’ve got to get a result out of this – if we don’t, it would be more damaging than getting beaten by Melrose, because we’re expected to win this,” Masters said.

“These games against Albury City, Heart, Cobram and those, they’re the games we have to win if we want to get ourselves in a reasonable position.

“If we can get into the top four, that’ll be good – you don’t want to be finishing in seventh or eighth, because you’re obviously going to cop Melrose or Hotspurs in the first week.

“We’ve got Hotspurs, but the rest are winnable, so if we get the results all of those, it should position us pretty well.”

TIME TO STRIKE: Eleisha Baker and the Lady Devils will see this weekend’s clash with Albury City as a must-win to prepare for their run in finals.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

Austin Morris’ big bash future

By NATHAN DE VRIES

YOUNG local cricketer

Austin Morris has taken the next steps in his cricketing journey, having excelled at a recent under 13 tournament up on the Sunshine Coast.

Morris was selected for the Under 13 Vic Metro side to compete in coaching company Century Cricket Coaching’s State of Origin series, which pits the best under 13 and under 15 players who attended their clinics across the country against each other in a showcase of unbridled cricketing potential across three days of competition and two camp days.

Playing for Greta Cricket Club in the WDCA Under 14 competition, Morris has extensive representative experience, a recent highlight being an unbeaten 53* off 31 and 1/15 for WDCA Blue in Junior Country Week.

Hosted at Maroochydore Cricket Club, the tournament started slowly for Morris, hitting the winning run off his first ball in a rain-affected win over Vic Metro, before he made himself known against Queensland when he peeled off a casual 60* off 37 balls, including four sixes and three fours, after taking a wicket with the ball.

While the majority of

the tournament was rained out, his stellar performance caught the eye of the coaches present, who named him in their under 13 ‘All Australian’ squad.

Morris said while he was initially nervous, he let his bat do the talking.

“I was feeling nervous about the whole camp idea, but I got used to it,” he said.

“In the first game, most of it got rained out so we only got to play seven overs - the scores were level and one of the batters went out, I only faced one ball and made one run.

“When I batted, I made 60 off 37.

“I was feeling I had to do something with the rain, we got two and a half games in.”

While he is an avid footballer, playing with Centrals JFC and with representative experience on the footy field, he said he much prefers cricket.

Morris plans to go as far as he can with his cricket, with the dream of wearing the green and gold and representing Australia in a T20I.

QUALITY KNOCK: Greta

CC junior Austin Morris’s 60* off 37 balls at an under 13 tournament showcased the bright future he has in the sport.

Friday, July 12

Collingwood vs. Geelong Cats (MCG)

Saturday, July 13

Hawthorn vs. Fremantle (UTAS)

Sydney Swans vs. North Melbourne (SCG)

Western Bulldogs vs. Carlton (MRVL)

Crows vs. St Kilda (AO)

Melbourne vs. Essendon (MCG)

Sunday, July 14

Gold Coast SUNS vs. Port Adelaide (HBS)

Richmond vs. GWS GIANTS (MCG)

West Coast Eagles vs. Brisbane Lions (OS)

Page 37

WANGARATTA can send a warning shot to the rest of the competition with a win over flag favourite Yarrawonga at Norm Minns Oval tomorrow.

The Magpies have had a tough run over the past three weeks with clashes against finals hopefuls

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@

Wangaratta Rovers, North Albury and Wodonga and the road doesn’t get any easier.

Wangaratta coach Ben

Reid sees Yarrawonga as a massive challenge

“They’re the best side in it by a bit I reckon,” Reid said.

“They’re very hard to score against, they’re the best defensive side in terms of points against so they don’t give their opposition many chances.

“It’s a great opportunity though, especially for our young guys who have come in over the past few weeks and will learn a heap against a side like Yarrawonga win, lose or draw.”

With guns across the park for the Pigeons, Reid feels his side can’t be too

worried about individual players.

“They’ve got some of the best mids in the competition, players like Willie and Harry Wheeler, Perry Lewis-Smith and Lach Howe’s the best ruckman in the competition in my opinion,” Reid said.

“They’ve got no shortage of talent so I think we just need to try and match them in the contest and with our stoppage work.

“Our ball movement has been decent lately so hopefully we can stretch them a bit there.

■ Continued page 39

NORTH Wangaratta Indigenous players (from left) Tyler Nanson, Josh Nanson, Laura Rogers and Daniel Williams show off their NAIDOC inspired playing gear ahead of Saturday’s match against Greta at North Wangaratta Reserve.

■ Story: Page 38

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling