Chronicle Monday 130524

HONOUR GUARD A HEARFELT TRIBUTE TO CHRISTINE SEWELL

POLICE and ambulance officers, present and past, stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow mourners in an honour guard in Ford Street to pay a final tribute to loved and respected colleague and friend Christine Sewell on Friday afternoon. During a funeral service which filled St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Mercia Conroy-Sewell spoke of a loving Mum and grandmother who was devoted to her family, and was an inspiration to all who met her. She was remembered as a strong, kind, special, intelligent and loving woman who was so proud to serve the community for many decades, firstly as a police officer, then reservist, who later joined Ambulance Victoria. Colleagues shared fond memories of her time in uniform and of the positive and lasting impact she had on so many within the community. ‘Ma’, as she was affectionately known, was 76 years of age at her passing on May 1. She was laid to rest at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

HOUSING

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

HOPES remain high that tomorrow’s Federal Budget will secure key funding towards the $50 million social housing redevelopment of the former Ovens College site in Wangaratta. Independent federal MP for Indi, Helen Haines, made her way back from Wangaratta to Canberra over the weekend in anticipation for the budget announcement tomorrow evening, which she hoped would address key needs across the region.

Among those is the Ovens College redevelopment of 250 social, affordable and key worker dwellings in Wangaratta. Rural City of Wangaratta

Mayor Dean Rees said with Dr Haines’ key advocation of the project, he was confident it would be funded for its stage one development within the next 12 months.

“Upon getting the funding federally, the development can get off the ground a lot easier, because basically they will be funded and ready to go and start the complex if they can get this first-round of funding done,” he said.

“This is a major development over a number of years, but this is the first ground to get the site completely remediated so it’s ready to go.

“I would be disappointed if the funding doesn’t come through, especially when the government’s main aim is around housing and this certainly ticks every box.”

The site is owned by council and aims to provide a mix

of social, affordable, and key worker, apartment style living, and will include an early learning centre and a community centre, as well as sustainable design features.

The State Government announced last month it will financially support the development and remove a land title restriction on the site to enable the redevelopment of the site to occur.

Nestd Developments Social

Enterprise was the preferred applicant to build the 250 homes following an expression of interest process. Under her priorities of federal funding, Dr Haines requested $10m of the total $50m redevelopment to be funded by the Federal Government to cover residential sewage capacity constraints and remediation of the existing site.

■ Continued page 3

Murder trial jury discharged

THE jury panelled in the Supreme Court trial of alleged Wonnangatta murderer Greg Lynn was discharged before opening statements on Friday.

Justice Michael Croucher discharged the jury for “technical reasons” after an application was filed by the defence and supported by the prosecution.

Mr Lynn is charged with murdering campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill in March 2020.

The former Jetstar pilot pleaded not guilty to both charges in the Supreme Court of Victoria before a 14-person jury was empanelled on Thursday.

A new jury is expected to be selected on Monday and a fresh trial will be held.

More than 100 witnesses are expected to be called.

“PEOPLE DON’T KNOW WHEN A PLACE WILL COME UP; IT’S UNPREDICTABLE.”

- PROFESSOR RUSSELL AUWARDT

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

Wait time frustration for dialysis treatment

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

AKILLAWARRA man has expressed frustration at the length of time locals are waiting to access dialysis treatment.

Ritchie Shanley, 59, suffers from chronic renal failure and has recently been experiencing significant symptoms due to declining kidney function in a transplanted organ.

Mr Shanley was on dialysis prior to a kidney transplant as a 17-year-old, and after the initial kidney failed, he received another new kidney in 1985.

“This kidney has started failing in the last couple of years,” he said.

“Once kidney function gets below 10 per cent, you start to feel the effects, and mine is now at five or less.

“What this means is that you retain a lot of fluid, you get headaches and are lethargic, and just have no energy.”

Mr Shanley is hopeful of receiving another kidney transplant, but said the waiting time was several years long.

In the meantime, his Wodonga-based nephrologist had planned to start him several weeks ago on dialysis, requiring treatment three times a week for five hours each time.

“Dialysis allows people like myself to lead a somewhat normal lifestyle, albeit with time-consuming and laborious treatment,” he said.

However, Mr Shanley and his nephrologist, Professor Russell Auwardt, found there was no availability in either the Wangaratta or Wodonga dialysis units, and while he has recently secured a place at Northeast

Health Wangaratta (NHW) and is feeling better, Mr Shanley said he felt the time locals had to wait was too long.

“I was on a waiting list for a vacancy to materialise,” he said.

Professor Auwardt said the lack of dialysis places had been a problem in the region for some years.

“It is a fact that dialysis units are full and patients are suffering,” he said.

“It was an issue in the early 2000s until Wodonga enlarged its capability, but over the last five years it has again been a problem.

“It has worsened this year because Albury Wodonga has had no spare chairs for a couple of years, and the overflow went to Wangaratta, filling those spots.

“People don’t know when a place will come up; it’s unpredictable.”

Professor Auwardt, who has worked in the North East since 1999, said he saw multiple patients who had issues with securing a spot for dialysis.

“Ideally, we direct patients to home dialysis, but if they can’t manage it, they have in-centre dialysis,” he said.

“When I tell elderly patients they may need to go to Melbourne, some choose not to have dialysis, and to let nature take its course, while others can be in Melbourne for six months.”

Patients from the region with failing kidney function are initially sent to Royal Melbourne Hospital to be seen by a renal specialist, who assesses and advises them of treatment options.

When a patient’s closest facility for maintenance renal dialysis does not have capacity, they are referred to the next closest facility, and can also be placed on a preferred location wait list.

ANHW spokesperson said the local service had seven chairs providing dialysis to help keep members of the community as close to home as possible for treatment.

“Activity for the dialysis service at NHW has been consistent over the past five years,” the spokesperson said.

In addition to Wangaratta’s seven chairs, a nine-chair maintenance haemodialysis service operates in Wodonga through Albury Wodonga Health.

A Victorian Department of Health spokesperson said keeping travel times for treatment as short as possible was always a priority, and every effort was made to ensure patients received the care they needed, as close to home as possible.

The spokesperson said regional patients could access the Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme, which offered subsidies for transport and accommodation.

“Demand for kidney and dialysis services in the area has increased in recent years due to the rising population and an increase in the proportion of older Victorians living in the region - that’s why we’re working closely with Albury Wodonga Health to improve access,” the spokesperson said.

The Department of Health said it had provided $250,000 to Albury Wodonga Health this year, through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund, to support the health service’s plans for a potential future renal dialysis expansion.

Albury Wodonga Health chief executive officer Bill Appleby said the State Government funds would be used to support specific service planning around increasing renal dialysis capacity and capability on the border.

“This allocation of funding underscores our commitment to addressing the evolving healthcare needs of our community,” he said.

“It acknowledges the need for growth of renal services within the catchment area as identified in the Hume Region Service Plan and the 2022 AWH Clinical Service Plan.”

Mr Appleby said the expansion of renal dialysis services at AWH “remains a key service priority”.

WAITING GAME: Killawarra’s Ritchie Shanley was placed on a waiting list for dialysis treatment as the function of his transplanted kidney failed; he believes the wait is too long for locals seeking the treatment.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

NOT GOOD ENOUGH: Local resident Ritchie Shanley believes the capacity for dialysis in the North East needs to be improved, to reduce waiting times.

Houses hopeful of further food relief

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA’S Open Door Neighbourhood House is looking forward to hearing more about a $2.5 million food relief funding provision in the 2024-’25 Victorian budget, and how it may be allocated across the state.

The $2.5m allocation responded to a budget submission call from Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHV) to help meet demand for food relief, which is being as keenly felt in Wangaratta as it is across the state.

NHV understands at this stage that the $2.5 million will form a pool available to neighbourhood houses through an open grants process, and Open Door is awaiting further information on the process involved.

“We’re happy to hear that it’s a start in bridging the funding gaps we experience, and we look forward to hearing more about eligibility,” Open Door Neighbourhood House executive officer Loretta Waters said.

Ms Waters told the Wangaratta Chronicle this month that they are seeing up to 30 people a day, in the space of four hours, seeking food assistance, and that additional funding support was needed to help service the growing need in the community, while also trying to provide other services.

NHV chief executive officer Keir Paterson thanked Minister Ros Spence for supporting the group’s submission through the budget process, and the State Government for the funding uplift

“While we would all rather our communities didn’t need food relief, the reality is that the rising cost of unfunded food relief is threatening the sustainability of many neighbourhood houses,” he said.

“By contributing to previously unfunded food relief efforts, these additional grants will improve the long-term viability of the sector.

“We are not expecting this need to ease any time soon, and a lot of neighbourhood houses have been running programs completely unfunded, so this funding is much-needed.”

In its budget submission, NHV had also called for a 22.37 per cent increase in Neighbourhood House Coordination Program funding ($39.2 million over four years); establishment of a growth fund for new neighbourhood houses across Victoria; and a oneoff $5 million rescue package to stabilise Neighbourhood House occasional

childcare provision.

Mr Paterson said NHV would continue to advocate in future budgets for a return to the previous model of funding for neighbourhood houses, and for the State Government to fund occasional care.

“There is a need for that, particularly with delays to (the expansion of) four-yearold kinder,” he said.

Volunteer efforts celebrated with funding boost

By JORDAN DUURSMA

OPEN Door Neighbourhood House has received $3000 to help purchase first aid and mental health first aid training for volunteers, fuel vouchers and small gardening equipment.

The funding was delivered through the federal Volunteer Grants program, and Open Door Neighbourhood House executive officer, Loretta Waters, said it was extremely helpful.

“This money helps support our volunteers at Open Door by providing them access to training and reimbursements for costs that often come from volunteers’ own pockets and otherwise hinder participation,” she said.

“It can be very challenging to undertake some of the compliances required for volunteers for small organisations like us, that otherwise don’t receive the funding to do so.

“Purchasing equipment, or providing reimbursements actually goes a long way in making volunteer staff feel important, valued

and recognised for their contributions.

“Organisations like us provide so many different services, that we just couldn’t achieve without the hours of support provided by individuals through volunteerism.

“We are so grateful for their commitment and passion towards our community of Wangaratta.

“We are also so grateful for the opportunity to apply and receive funding such as this, from the federal government and Indi.” Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines said 20 groups across the electorate were sharing in grants worth more than $66,000, including Wangaratta Woodworkers receiving $3279 to purchase a new safety stop contractors saw that will prevent finger injuries.

“There are so many wacross Indi who work tirelessly to make their communities safe, vibrant and fun places to live,” she said.

“The federal Volunteer Grants program supports those who support us.”

Council, MP seeking $10m Wangaratta social housing boost in Federal Budget

■ From page 1

Dr Haines addressed the media last Thursday to reiterate her key needs for the region before Tuesday’s budget, wanting to see a “significant investment” in cost-of-living relief measures, health care and housing across the Indi electorate.

“We need to see long-term community benefit from any infrastructure project that’s built across our region and anywhere across regional Australia,” she said.

“I want to see federal investment into the infrastructure that allows us to open up the land and put houses on, across rural and regional Australia we know we need around $2 billion of investment in the critical enabling infrastructure to build the houses we need for the people who need them.

“As people of this electorate go to supermarkets, go to pay their energy bills, fillup their cars, we need to see some cost-of-

living relief from this federal parliament.

“Particularly here in Indi, we need significant investment in our primary health care settings, our acute health care settings and our health workforce.”

Dr Haines expressed her disappointment in the State Budget which was announced last week, highlighting her “deep concerns” around recent reports of access to dialysis treatment in the region.

“What we need to see is State Governments prioritisng the significant investment from the Federal Government into the areas that need it most and right now we’re not seeing that investment coming into regional areas such as ours,” she said.

“We’ve got people who can’t access life-saving treatments such as dialysis, people who are on waiting lists to get a renal tran splant, that’s not an east process nor is it straightforward in any shape or form.

“We need to offer dialysis close to where people live.

“What would disappoint me is if the [Federal] government ignores our critical needs in health care delivery… absolutely fundamental to every other thing we do is that we can access fast and affordable health.”

Other items on Dr Haines’ wish list for Wangaratta from tomorrow’s Federal Budget included funding for upgrades of the Wangaratta Organics Processing Facility, the Prosecco Road Tourism Project in the King Valley and the Wangaratta Creative Precinct expansion.

Cr Rees said continuation of council and Federal Government co-funded projects including the Wareena Park masterplan and the building of female friendly changerooms and to obtain the first stage of funding for the arts precinct expansion would be areas he would like to see addressed.

HOPEFUL: Loretta Waters and Emma Gerrett are hopeful a $2.5m allocation in the Victorian budget could offer some assistance for food relief in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

SEEKING SHELTER: Federal MP for Indi Helen Haines will be looking for housing, health care and cost-of-living reprieve for the region in Tuesday’s Federal Budget.

SOCIAL FOCUS

High tea to celebrate Mother’s Day

RANGEVIEW Private Nursing Home was filled with a loving atmosphere as families and friends gathered for high tea in celebration of Mother’s Day on Thursday, May 9.

The room was decorated in style with pink balloons and hearts lining the walls.

All staff who attended wore pink clothing to mark the occasion.

Staff served residents and their guests with a friendly smile while they enjoyed tea and sweet treats together.

LEADERS: Director of nursing, Natalie

and activities and lifestyle coordinator Pieta Gough.

Join the fun of our school car boot sale fund raiser, with proceeds of car boot stall sales going towards a worthy school project.

Host your own stall selling craft items, clothes, toys, books, plants and more, or come along to grab yourself a bargain! Coffee van on site & hot food available for purchase on the day.

For more details and to register your stall, visit our website www.whs.vic.edu.au/car-boot-sale

BEST FRIENDS: Shirley Block and Dot Darcy enjoying a cuppa together.

LOVING

Oliver

PHOTOS: Jordan Duursma

HIGH TEA WITH MUM: Joan Lillis, Nicole Cahill and Kathy Cahill.

THREE GENERATIONS: Chris Deimel and Sophie Deimel with her great grandmother Hazel Robinson.

FAMILY TIME: Narelle Gottschling, Heather Goeby and Ross Goeby.

PRETTY IN PINK: Margaret Wayman, Valda O’Rourke and Coral Osborn dressed in pink to mark the occasion.

SERVING IN STYLE: Agnes Nsofwa clinical care manager, Tom Presianni and Zoe Irvine lending a helping hand for the event.

DYNAMIC DUO: Gail Bigges and Carol Henry.

CELEBRATING MOTHERS: Jessie Dillon, Peta Lynne Dillon and Gabrielle Waters gathered at Rangeview Private Nursing Home for a Mother’s Day high tea.

Whorouly school celebrating 150 years

By BRODIE EVERIST

WHOROULY Primary School

will celebrate its 150th anniversary this week, starting with a school-hours celebration on Wednesday followed by a community event on Saturday.

School principal Pauline McPherson said the school celebrations, coinciding with the exact opening of the school in 1874, will comprise a birthday party then a ‘talent quest’ series of performances by students.

At 10am this Saturday the school will mark the anniversary with a tree planting and the unveiling of commemorative pavers and artwork.

Ms McPherson said the tree is planned to be planted by the school’s two youngest stu-

dents and one of Whorouly’s oldest residents.

The artwork was created by school students from grades three to six depicting the school in 1874, 1999 and today.

Following the ceremony attendees are welcome to tour the school, view historical records, photos and student and parent reflections of their time at Whorouly Primary School.

That evening past students, teachers and families are invited to dinner at a local function centre.

Ms McPherson has worked at the school ongoing since 1991 and as a principal for the past seven years.

She estimated 14 of their 27 students are the children of former students.

Future of city’s parks mapped until 2033

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

A RECREATION strategy that will set the direction for planning, development, maintenance and activation of parks and spaces within the Rural City of Wangaratta until 2033 has been adopted by council.

Extensive consultation was undertaken as part of the development of the strategy, and feedback from multiple sources was incorporated into the final document.

Council director of community and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said the majority of the feedback during public exhibition was supportive, including from the growing number of nontraditional sports that call the rural city home.

Mr Goonan said the majority of changes to the strategy were around the provision of clarity to recommendations and actions, as well as includ-

ing sporting organisations who had not participated earlier in the process.

The strategy was adopted at council’s April meeting last week, where Claire Russell from the Merriwa Park and Gardens Group, via a question read by Mayor Dean Rees, claimed Merriwa Park and King George V Gardens were of historical importance.

She asked whether council would consider adding the word historic in reference to the parks within the recreation strategy document.

An alternative motion was moved by Cr Jack Herry, and although he failed to get a seconder to the amendment, councillors discussed and voted on the matter, which was later highlighted to be a procedural error.

Cr Irene Grant said (the inclusion of the word historic) was an issue of semantics and the parks were significant and beautiful and important to Wangaratta.

SIGNIFICANT: There was some discussion around whether Merriwa Park (pictured) and King George V Gardens should be referenced as historical in a new recreation strategy.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“They’re jewels in the crown in terms of open space that we have in the Rural City of Wangaratta,” she said.

“Historic, I don’t know, I’m asking the question that if we accept them as historic, what does that mean, what does that translate into - that would be the question I would ask.”

Cr Dave Fuller said by definition of historic a 60,000-year-old country has

a different definition of historic and in this instance the parks were relatively young.

Mayor Rees later noted that discussion on the amendment should not have occurred because there was no secondary support to Cr Herry’s movement of the alternative motion. In discussing the original motion to adopt the strategy, Cr Herry was against the strategy’s name change and the omission of ‘open spaces’ in the title. He was also displeased with the omission of nonformal activities such as walking and cycling.

“Some of the data that was gathered revealed a lot of the recreational activities that people do are not organised sports,” Cr Herry said.

“The majority of it is that low keyed stuff, walking, bushwalking, cycling…I do wonder what the purpose of this document is and why was its direction not guided by that information.”

Milawa Gourmet Region to celebrate 30th anniversary

A DESTINATION to visit and experience was the ethos behind the establishment of the Milawa Gourmet Region back in 1994.

Now, 30 years on, the region is firmly established as a tourism destination offering not only exceptional food and wine, but an array of accommodation options and a range of activities, while acknowledging its heritage and ensuring a future.

It is this forward thinking, innovative approach that prompted the 21 businesses who originally formed the Milawa Gourmet Region to hang out their gourmet-declaring signs.

According to an article published in the Financial Review back in February 1995, “the steering committee decided to keep it simple; new members get a fetching shingle in burgundy and light cream with a logo showing grapes, a bottle, a

glass, wedge of cheese and loaf of bread.”

The article went on to quote Barry Jones, who was the marketing manager for Brown Brothers at the time and was generally recognised as the gourmet region’s helmsperson, and he believed tourists had become sophisticated to the point of wanting an overnight stay with their gourmet experiences.

“There is a lot of what you might call artisan food and wine in the area and we decided there was enough for (tourists) to focus on a total experience,” Mr Jones said.

It was felt that areas such as the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula had promoted themselves as wine producers, but by projecting a broader image for Milawa it was hoped to create a market niche, with the ‘gourmet’ tag being both specific and expansive. So, did and does the region

live up to its assertions?

Well the fact the Milawa Gourmet Region has not only survived but thrived over the past 30 years speaks for itself, and the current cohort of association members wants to celebrate such a substantial achievement.

What better way to mark the occasion than with a night of fine food and wine in the historic winery barn at Milawa’s Brown Brothers, one of the foundation members, this Saturday, May 18.

“It will be a gala four-course dinner, including a glass of prosecco or a cherry ginsecco and roaming canapes on arrival, followed by three courses, each matched with three local wines,” current Milawa Gourmet Region Association president, Meghan Gehrig, said.

“The wines will be supplied by members – Brown Brothers, John Gehrig Wines, Sam Miranda Wines and Wood Park

FREE MEALS

4 Nights a Week

Commencing Monday 13th May

Apex Park 6pm-7pm

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday

Wines – and head chef Bodee is curating the menu, highlighting our region’s seasonal great produce.

“With this special birthday gala dinner, the dress code is ‘red, white and sparkles’ to

celebrate our award winning wines.

“At the dinner, we will also be launching our commemorative book ‘Thirty Years of Gourmet’, a must for any food and wine lover.

“The perfect keepsake.” Tickets, which cost $160 per person, for the gala dinner are available at https://events. humanitix.com/30-years-ofgourmet-milawa-gourmetregion-30th-birthday-dinner

ANNIVERSARY DINNER: Tayla Campbell from Brown Brothers and Milawa Gourmet Region Association president Meghan Gehrig, are looking forward to the celebrating the Milawa Gourmet Region’s 30th birthday. PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

READY TO CELEBRATE: William Whitehead (left), Evie Fitridge, Willow Pianegonda, Audrey Fitridge and George Harrison are keen for Whorouly Primary School’s 150th anniversary celebrations. PHOTO: Pauline McPherson

Funding support vital for local houses

GOVERNMENT funding announced over the past week has brought needed support to Neighbourhood House food relief in the state and locally.

A $2.5m allocation in the Victorian Budget to support Neighbourhood Houses with in-demand food relief responded to a budget submission call from Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHV) to help meet their demand for food relief, which is being as keenly felt in Wangaratta as it is across the state.

Open Door Neighbourhood House are one of those stakeholders in Wangaratta, reporting this month that they are seeing up to 30 people a day, in the space of four hours, seeking food assistance.

Although the details of how the $2.5m will be allocated in Neighbourhood Houses across the state are still uncertain, it’s pivotal services locally see a piece of it.

Open Door’s food pantry relies solely on donated food, and the community can also help address this need by giving small donations of their own for those in need.

Every bit of support Neighbourhood Houses in the community like Open Door can receive is more than well-warranted, with food-relief just one of a slew of vital services they provide.

The Neighbourhood House couldn’t achieve the supply of those services without the hours of support provided by individuals through volunteerism.

Open Door was also one of 20 volunteer organisations across Indi to share in a pool of just over $66,000 of funding, which also included Wangaratta Woodworkers.

The Neighbourhood House volunteers deserve a wealth of credit for their service to the community, who will only benefit from the further training and expertise volunteers will be able to provide.

The Quiz No. 84

1. Who directed the 2016 movie, The BFG?

2. The Rhine river flows through how many countries?

3. In which century was OshKosh B’Gosh founded?

4. Which sport takes place in a Velodrome?

5. The Marrakesh Agreement established which organization?

6. What is the only Canadian province with a predominantly French-speaking population?

7. Who played the role of Samantha Spade in the 2000s TV series, Without a Trace?

8. Cartography is the study and practice of making what?

9. In the 2016 Federal election, who replaced Luke Simpkins as the Member for Cowan?

10. The Gobi Desert is located on which continent?

11. What is the nickname of the Australian Women’s Netball team?

12. In which game would you find Creative Cat and Data Head cards?

13. The 1907 painting, Blue Nude, is one of the best known works by which artist?

14. Copacabana is a borough located in which South American city?

15. Which alcoholic beverage is used to make an Irish coffee?

16. In 2004, who released their debut album, Back to Bedlam?

17. Which sport has teams playing for the John Reid Shield?

18. In relation to G.I. Joe toys, what does the G.I. stands for?

19. Estonia, Latvia and Belarus all share a border with which country?

20. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”, is a quote from which book by Charles Dickens?

FACEBOOK users have commented on the 2024/25 State Budget overlooking funding for Wanagatta High School.

• Jamial Arnol: Look at those sheeple. Can’t think for themselves so all just jump on the Dan hating hype train.

• Paul Crabb: All the consultants and bureaucrats that advised on all the grossly over budget projects and the failed Commonwealth Games

should be handing back the huge amounts of monies they pocketed for their horrendously bad advice !

• Steve Heatherill: Train sets for the city comes before education especially regional education where less votes to lose than the city and surrounding suburbs

• Karen Nankervis: Nothing has changed!

• Leslie Matthews: When you keep voting for the same National Party

Window of opportunity for landowners

THE Wangaratta Solar Farm (WSF) provides an excellent model for other regional communities.

Built on industrial land, it will feed 8MW into a battery energy storage system (BESS) that will supply local industries (“Go time for solar farm”, Wangaratta Chronicle, May 3).

And unlike the controversial Meadow Creek solar project (nearly 10 times the capacity of WSF), there is not the concern about the loss of agricultural land.

But renewable energy projects and agriculture can cohabit.

The forthcoming Renewables in Agriculture conference to be held in Toowoomba on July 4 includes “stories of on-farm renewables”.

The Australian National University’s solar and wind map shows that much of the land around Wangaratta is suitable for low cost large-scale solar.

It seems there is a window for landholders and communities in the North East to capitalise on the national energy transition provided the shared benefits are optimised.

The Clean Energy Council’s Guide to Benefit Sharing Options for Renewable Energy Projects could be a timely and useful resource.

Ray Peck, Hawthorn

Time to rethink the costs of WSAC

I DO recall Wangaratta council berating me for supporting the non-closure of the Olympic swimming pool in Swan Street.

The strength of council’s argument on closure was largely based upon how much it cost council for each individual swimmer at the Olympic pool over a given period.

Now that their enthusiastic approval of the new facility has come to pass, I would be delighted if they could pass on to me, cost per customer at the new facility comparing with the cost per customer at the old facility.

Brian Fox, Wangaratta

Flexible learning is the key to help students

IN response to the article interviewing Dave Armstrong from Wangaratta High School on mobile phone use in schools and it being a community issue (Wangaratta Chronicle, April 24), I offer this point of view.

Phone use in itself is an issue with children and adults alike who are dealing with trauma, mental health issues, self-esteem issues and a world that is not offering them many choices

NOTE:

member you’ll keep getting the same result. And no the state isn’t bankrupt.

• Adam Hung-lo Waddell: suprise suprise

• Le On: This $11.7M that the Government “pledged” just prior to the 2022 election in an attempt to buy your vote? Yep. The next time you’ll get a sniff of that money will be mid 2026 when they again “pledge” money with the disclaimer (as found on the Victorian School Building Authority

website) “subject to future funding”. The money doesn’t exist.

• Cardwell Belinda: No votes no money. State is bankrupt

• Julie Braden: All our taxes have been siphoned off. Are we not bankrupt?

• Marlene Lamond: This bloody government should be held to account Victoria is broke and broken because of stupid bloody gov decisions. Will NOT vote for either of these two parties ever again.

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

14,834

in jobs and housing that previous generations have enjoyed.

And the introduction of technology has seen an addiction to the instant gratification and escape that relieves the pressure humans now face on a daily basis.

Yes, it is a social issue.

But in saying that, the education system is also an issue and many students who struggle with mobile phone usage, also struggle with the mainstream school system.

Sitting around hour after hour in subjects that don’t interest them or relate to what they might want to do until they are legally allowed to leave school is as traumatising as the reality of what is awaiting them after school with the housing, job and price of living crisis.

Project based ‘alternative’ learning opportunities delivered within a Flexible Learning Centre environment that is significantly better suited to these students is not something that Wangaratta has had the opportunity to embrace yet.

I believe as an educator at the Benalla Flexible Learning Centre who has come from a mainstream secondary setting, the model I currently work in is significantly more effective for these students, and a highly practical option for relief on mainstream schools who are struggling in this and other behavioural areas.

As the success that Wodonga, Seymour, Shepparton and Benalla FLC’s have experi-

enced over the past 10 years, Wangaratta desperately needs a Flexible Learning Centre too. Not only to alleviate the pressure on staff and students who innately thrive in mainstream settings, but more importantly, to support these disengaged students and their families as they work in a space that targets their learning needs in a non-mainstream setting, and where the data shows is hugely successful.

I welcome the opportunity for a public educational Flexible Learning Centre to be introduced into Wangaratta and satisfy a desperate need for the trained alternative education teachers to support a growing number of disengaged students with what they do best.

Celine Forster, Wangaratta

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility. Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Cranium 13. Henri Matisse 14. Rio de Janeiro

Whiskey

James Blunt 17. Softball (Men’s)

Government Issue

Russia

A Tale of Two Cities

NOW LISTEN: Sam Field with her champion dog River were among those competing at the weekend’s obedience trials run by the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club at their facilities in the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Escaped burn-offs prompt a timely reminder from CFA

FOLLOWING a year that saw local CFA volunteers respond to 27 incidents caused by escaped burn-offs in the District 23 Wangaratta region, fire crews are urging landowners to take extra precautions before lighting up. With fire restrictions now lifted across the state, private residents are taking the opportunity to burn off grass, stubble, weeds, and undergrowth to maintain their properties.

While encouraged,

CFA reminds Victorians to monitor local weather forecasts in the lead up to ignition.

In 2023, more than 22,500 volunteer hours were utilised responding to incidents involving escaped private burn-offs, with at total of 815 incidents recorded across the state. Most call outs were during April and May and later in spring from September to November.

CFA acting chief officer

Garry Cook said the findings from these statistics are a timely reminder for private landowners to make sure they have enough people and water on hand to monitor, contain and extinguish their burn-off safely.

“We know burn-offs can flare-up several days afterwards, so it is important residents are consistently monitoring wind conditions before and after their burning day, while also notifying their

neighbours to be mindful of smoke,” Mr Cook said.

“The overarching message is clear – please don’t leave your burn-off unattended.”

Victorians are urged to register their burn-offs online through the Fire Permits Victoria website to provide agencies with important information to manage fire risk effectively and to allow Triple Zero call takers to focus on emergency calls.

“Of the 815 escaped burn offs, 69 per cent of them had no record of being registered and 113 required more than five CFA vehicles,” Mr Cook said.

“If you light a fire to burnoff, you own it.

“Registering it is important and may avoid unnecessary responses from CFA brigades, but it does not remove your responsibility.”

Before burning off, ensure:

• You are following regulations or laws by CFA and your local council.

• A fire break is established with no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.

• You register your burn-off using Fire Permits Victoria at https://www. firepermits.vic.gov.au/ or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.

• Check for more information on www.cfa.vic. gov.au/prepare.

First Mother’s Day milestones come with a smile

INTERGENERATIONAL CELEBRATION: Chantelle West and daughter Giovanna (17 weeks) enjoyed a girls’ day out with Giovanna’s Nonna yesterday to celebrate Mother’s Day. In the lead-up, the pair enjoyed time together on Thursday at the Wangaratta Library’s Rhyme Time.

TIME TOGETHER: Danielle Townsend celebrated Mother’s Day as a mum of two for the first time on Sunday, having welcomed baby Tate eight months ago to join five-year-old Eliza. She said Mother’s Day was a lovely chance to spend time together as a family, and a good sleep would be enough of a gift from young Tate. The pair enjoyed the Wangaratta Library’s Rhyme Time session on Thursday.

MARKING MUMS’ DAY: The early arrival of identical twins Nellie and Pippa Branson at 32 weeks’ gestation kept their mums, Ruby Foottit (pictured) and Leanne Branson on their toes. Now, Ruby - who was at the Wangaratta Library on Thursday for Rhyme Time with the seven-month-old twins - said she looked forward to her first Mother’s Day on Sunday. The family enjoyed a lunch out together to celebrate the occasion.

PHOTOS: Simone Kerwin

Biking Birthisels are ready to race at Historic Winton

MOTORCYCLIST Peter Birthisel has two objectives in mind when he races at Historic Winton later this month.

Naturally, the Yarrawonga racer aims to win, but the other highly competitive aspect of his race is whether his son, Mason, 26, will finally beat him.

It’s a race within a race.

Both father and son race 1942 Indian Scout motocycles in the Class C Harley vs Indian Hand Shift Challenge.

“We definitely keep score on who beats who in each race and sometimes it can get pretty close, so there is plenty of banter afterwards,” Peter said.

“Mason took on motorcycles of his own accord and has been racing Indian’s since he was 16, so already he has 10 years’ experience.”

A mad keen dry lakes racer, in 2018, Peter broke a land speed record on his 1926 Indian Altoona, doing 157.425 miles per hour on the salt at Lake Gairdner.

The excitement of this kind of speed racing was well documented in the 2005 biopic ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’ starring Anthony Hopkins about New Zealand racer Burt Monroe.

Peter and Mason also compete against each other at Sellicks Beach in SA in the beach racing.

Apart from racing and riding Indian motocycles, Peter has turned a 40-year-old hobby into a

full-time business, which he runs with Mason.

They specialise in restoring and rebuilding hand shift Indian race bikes, pre-1954 Indian motocycles.

“We have also been manufacturing barrels for Indians and send them to enthusiasts all over the world from our base in Yarrawonga,” Peter said.

And if racing and engineer-

CHAMPION MOTORCYCLE ON DISPLAY: Mason Birthisel riding the 1914 Indian

Champion motorbike will be on display

THE year, 1914, was a big one for the increasingly popular motorcycle racing scene in Australia.

Two major races were held for the first time, the 1914 Tourist Trophy in Goulburn and the 1914 Moto GP near Bendigo.

The winner of the 1914 Tourist Trophy, the 1914 Indian Speedway Twin, will be on display at the 47th Historic Winton.

Anyone wishing to see this 1914 Indian Speedway Twin can find it in the motorcycle pits in the competition paddock.

ing isn’t enough, Peter is president of the Indian Motorcycle Club of Australia with the support of his wife, Toni.

“Toni is the one that keeps us organised,” Peter said.

“She does everything from getting our schedule in order to making sure we have lunch, so we wouldn’t be nearly as organised without her help.

The 47th iteration of Historic Winton it set to run on May 25 and 26, at Winton Motor Raceway.

Tickets and camping are available at https://www.ticketebo. com.au/historicwinton.

Veteran motorcycles aged 100 and more will be on display at Historic Winton this year.

Owners of other veteran motorcycles who wish to display them at Historic Winton should email displays@ historicwinton.org with name, phone number, make, year and model of the motorcycle.

“She is a fair dinkum race mum”.

For the latest Historic Winton news visit www.historicwinton. org or follow Historic Winton on social media platforms @ historicwinton.

The rider/owner will receive a free entry voucher.

For tickets go to Historic Winton website https://historicwinton.org/.

Speedway Twin.

PHOTO: Colin Rosewarne

FAMILY AFFAIR: Peter Birthisel 111 and Mason Birthisel 11 are a father and son racing duo from Yarrawonga.

PHOTO: Colin Rosewarne

Bicycle built for two’s 3000km polio mission

By JORDAN DUURSMA

A FORMER North East couple were back in Wangaratta last week as part of their epic 3000km tandem bicycle fundraiser to support Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign.

The 74-year-old Rotarians, Phil and Joyce Ogden, who now live in Tasmania, are riding from Adelaide to Sydney.

They set off on April 3 and hope to complete their approximate 3000km journey in eight weeks.

With 30 years of tandem cycling behind them, the pair have planned and self funded their current trip, with support from the Rotary Club of South Launceston.

They are staying with Rotarians along the ride and addressed Rotary clubs in Wangaratta this week, who are backing their cause.

Phil witnessed the terrible legacy of the polio epidemic of the fifties in his medical career and is passionate about making a difference.

“We feel that the enormous effort which has gone into turning the tide of the disease will be lost if pressure and fund raising are not maintained until the disease is totally eradicated,” he said.

“So, we are still committed to harnessing another of our passions, cycling, to push things along.”

The couple ride approximately 100km per day, and estimate they’ve ridden 100,000km throughout their tandem adventures to-

gether across the globe, including unsupported crossings of the European Alps, the Pyrenees and the Rockies.

Joyce said cycling is a big part of their life.

“We would cycle together as a family with our two children,” she said.

“Our introduction into tandem

biking was in Launceston in 1993, we rode down a hill, turned the corner and fell off

“But we went and brought a tandem bike and we have had lots of adventures since.”

The couple lived in Myrtleford for 12 years and have a special connection to North East Victoria.

“As we were riding north it felt

a bit like coming home,” Joyce said.

The pair have raised just over a third of their goal of $40,000 for their journey.

Phil said they are asking people to donate the cost of a coffee.

Those able to support the cause can donate at https://raise. rotary.org/joyce+phil/challenge.

Still waiting for heavy rainfall in

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?

Noth East

By Peter Nelson, Peter retired CSIRO climatologist

RAINFALL, as fleeting as it may have been last last week, was the first many places in North East Victoria had seen since April 8. Wangaratta, like many places, only had a few millimetres, but looking further ahead a significant rain event is likely about May 26. Wangaratta has had 11 days of frosts, Rutherglen 13 days of frosts and Benalla only two days of frosts and Albury itself did not record a single frost since April 20.

Most days since then have been mild to warm and sunny with maxima near 24 degrees.

Adelaide has completed its driest February to April period since 1923 and the fourth driest such period in records going right back to 1839.

The total rainfall for February to April this year was just 15mms - the driest since 3.1mms in 1923 and the fourth driest behind 13mms in 1870 and 9.7mms in 1888.

The event of 1870 followed a wet January in North East Victoria and then a notably hotter and drier February to March period before significant rainfall during April in 1870.

This is precisely what has happened this year to date and as the rest of 1870 was notably wetter than average from Tasmania to well into Queensland it does look certain that 2024 will follow suite.

April was notably colder than usual over most of the Northern Territory, particularly Daly Waters, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs. The past records at these three towns show notably cold Aprils in 1892, 1911, 1924, 1949, 1971, 1983 and 2011.

All these episodes set up a wetter than average period for the second half of the year in North East Victoria.

CYCLING FOR A CAUSE: Joyce and Phil Ogden are riding from Adelaide to Sydney in a campaign to end polio.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma.

ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH WANGARATTA

The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.

Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.

If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.

Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.

Mentor, now big brother

Monday, May 12, 2014

By CAITLIN SARTORI

BECOMING part of the Big Brother Big Sister program, Greg Foster hopes to step up his already existing mentoring of youth in the local community.

William Michael Sutton

William Michael Sutton was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Wednesday, May 8 at 9:03pm and weighed 3.64kg (8lb .3oz). He is the son of Tahllia Deakin and Braydon Sutton of Numurkah.

Maeve Robyn Penney

Maeve Robyn Penney was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, May 6 at 3:30am and weighed 2.46kg (5lb 6oz). She is the daughter of Brylee Rowe and Zac Penney of Finley.

Benjamin David Moran

Benjamin David Moran was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 9 at 9:35am and weighed 3.4kg (7lb 7oz). He is the son of Sarah Moran and Harrison Moran of Benalla.

Running the UFA Gym for the past three and a half years, located above Sportsman’s Warehouse in Reid Street, Greg has been paired with 13-year-old Brandan Ynthank of Wangaratta through the Big Brother Big Sister program.

Over the next 12 months, the duo will spend at least an hour a week together to “hang out”, with Brandan sharing interests in motorbikes, scooters and soccer team Manchester United.

The Big Brother Big Sister program is run nationally, with around 20 people undertaking a mentor role in Wangaratta.

BIG BROTHER: Greg

spend time over the next 12 months with 13-year-old Brandan Ynthank after the pair were partnered through Wangaratta’s Big Brother Big Sister program with the help of coordinator, Adrian O’Callaghan (right).

the Big Brother Big Sister program which he and Brandan began last week.

A little bit of relief on HECS and HELP debts

By STEVE KELLY

PEOPLE with a HECS/ HELP debt are expected to feel some relief with the Federal Government announcing a change in the way indexation on loans is calculated.

THE Country Women’s Association (CWA) of Victoria is calling for the Federal Government to go a step further, by removing any indexation on HECS debt.

More than 400 women from across Victoria will assemble at the Melbourne Royal Showgrounds to debate a range of policy resolutions at CWA’s State Conference on May 31 and June 1. They will call on the Federal Government to remove the indexation on HECS debt to enable young tertiary students to repay their debts more quickly and be able to prioritise saving for their own home.

The program helps children and young people to stay in school, avoid risky behaviours and build self-confidence, along with constructing an invaluable friendship with their mentor.

“Life can be hard, but I want to show people that if you put in the effort, you can make the right decisions, get the ball rolling and have a good life,” Greg said.

On a weekly basis, Greg works alongside an estimation of between 20 to 70 youths through the gym in a range of groups, alongside

“It’s been a blessing for me to meet people like Adrian (O’Callaghan, project coordinator) and then to be able to help people through this program,” he said.

In response to the Australian Universities Accord, the government will cap the HELP indexation rate to be the lower of either the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Wage Price Index (WPI) with effect from June 1, 2023.

The government will backdate this relief to all HELP, VET Student Loan, Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan and other student support loan accounts that existed on June 1 last year.

This will benefit all Australians with a HELP debt, fixing the issue of last year’s spike in the CPI indexation rate of 7.1 per cent and preventing growth in debt from outpacing wages in the future.

The 2023 indexation rate based on WPI would only have been 3.2 per cent instead of 7.1pc.

An individual with an average HELP debt of $26,500 will see around $1200 wiped

Other resolutions being debated at the conference include calling on the Federal Government to impose tougher regulation on social media platforms exposing young people to graphic and extreme digital content.

from their outstanding HELP loans this year, pending the passage of legislation.

Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines said this is a big win for three million Australians, young and older, carrying a HECS/HELP debt that was increasing faster than wages growth.

“These changes come after significant campaigning, particularly from the crossbench,” Dr Haines said, noting more than 280,000 people signed the petition championed by the Independent Member for Kooyong Monique Ryan calling for the change.

Dr Haines has also wel-

comed the government’s announcement on Monday that it will reform unpaid work placements for teachers, social workers, nurses and midwives.

She said there is still more work to be done to make university education accessible for young Australians so that we can strengthen our workforce, particularly in regional and rural areas.

Minister for Skills and Training, Brendan O’Connor, said the changes continue the government’s work to ease cost of living pressures and reduce and remove financial barriers to education and training.

Foster (left) will

PHOTO: Luke Plummer CWA wants removal

A team effort to bring Aladdin to the stage

By SHANE DOUTHIE

IT is a massive undertaking to take on any musical production, let alone a much-loved and colourful show like Walt Disney’s Aladdin Junior to be performed by Galen College junior school students on Wednesday, May 15 and Thursday, May 16 at the school’s performing arts centre.

The junior version of the popular musical is based on Disney’s 1992 Academy Award-winning film and the 2014 hit Broadway show about Aladdin after he discovers the famed magic lamp and the Genie who has the power to grant three wishes.

The show has all the beloved characters, and villains, from the

film including Princess Jasmine, Aby, Jafar, Iago and even a camel all performed by the students.

This production is also steered along by a team of junior directors under the guidance of teachers Olivia Jones and Julie Nolan (codirectors), ensuring the school’s longstanding history of presenting quality productions will continue well into the future.

With so many involved it has been a truly whole of school effort and that is not lost on the performers who become the face of the show come the performances.

Charley Miller, who plays Princess Jasmine said being involved has not only built up her confidence but allowed her to become closer to her friends,

describing the cast as a family.

“My favourite song is Arabian Nights,” Charley said.

“I would have also loved to been Genie but it has always been a dream of mine to be a Disney princess so Jasmine is perfect.”

Spencer Hayward, who plays Prince Ali agreed, especially as this is to be his last junior production.

“I’ve come to make many lifelong friends and have been opened up to a world of which I never knew, and that world’s pretty bloody cool,” he said.

“My current goal in life is to now pursue said world and make a career out of doing the thing I love most.”

It was difficult for Spencer to name a favourite song.

A time-travelling piano extravaganza with songs that span centuries

PREPARE to be transported through the ages as Damon Smith’s Piano-Palooza becomes a musical time machine, featuring pieces from different centuries on Saturday, May 18.

You’ll be tapping along to the likes of Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Ray Charles, and delight as you witness one of Mozart’s compositions transforming into an energetic ragtime number, showcasing the piano’s remarkable influence across socioeconomic levels and diverse communities.

Damon Smith’s mastery lies not only in his musical prowess but also in his ability to captivate audiences with humour and warmth.

Engaging the crowd, he enlightens them about the origins of boogie-woogie music, creating an atmosphere that is both entertaining and informative.

A standout moment in the show involves an audience member brought on stage to learn and play a challenging piece of music.

The unpredictable outcomes result in hilarity and thunderous applause, making each performance unique and unforgettable.

Beyond the music, Damon delves into the significance of

the actual pianos that occupy or have occupied the venues he performs in, revealing the memories and stories these instruments hold.

From the grand Germanmade pianos in opulent manors to the weathered upright spinets in humble beer halls and honky tonk bars, the piano has woven its presence into the tapestry of diverse cultural communities.

This musical odyssey also pays tribute to the remarkable pianist Winnie Attwell, sharing her inspiring life and career, during which she graced community halls across Victoria and NSW.

Damon’s own experiences performing in various Australian venues, including moments from his awardwinning film, add a personal touch that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Damon Smith’s Piano-

Palooza is more than just a show; it’s an unforgettable experience that seamlessly weaves together music, comedy, and storytelling.

Beyond entertainment, it is an innovative way to bring communities together, celebrating the importance of music and cultural heritage in a fun and interactive manner.

Don’t miss this unique and heart-warming journey through the history of piano music with Damon Smith’s Piano-Palooza, a unique and engaging performance that promises to educate, entertain, and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the piano’s timeless magic.

The show will take place at the Cheshunt Hall with doors opening at 6:30pm Tickets are available at www.kingvlleyarts.com.au and include supper provided by Sustainable King Valley.

“All the songs in our production have so much character and life, which of course is portrayed beautifully by my cast mates, but if I had to choose, I’ve always had a soft spot for the Genie and his songs, especially Friend Like Me,” he said.

Elliott McPhee portrays Aladdin, and is following in the footsteps of Spencer.

“This is my first production and I really couldn’t be more grateful and happy to have been introduced to all the people I have, everyone is so welcoming, supportive and helpful when it comes to things like learning the script or memorising songs,” he said.

“I’m so happy that the people in production are the way they are, it makes me happy to be a member

of the production, I truly feel like we are a family, and it makes me really confident for our upcoming performance.”

Although Elliott loves all the songs his favourite is High Adventure.

“I love the performance that goes into it and how well the characters bounce of each other, and while I myself am not actually performing the song, my friends and fellow castmates are doing an amazing job at capturing the essence of the song.”

Performances of Aladdin at the Galen Performing Arts Centre are at 7pm Wednesday, May 15 and Thursday, May 16 with two matinees for schools on the Thursday. Tickets are $5 and available from the Galen College website.

TIMELESS MUSIC: Damon Smith will transport you through time at his Piano-Palooza. PHOTO: Lisa Marmur

THE ETERNAL STRUGGLE: Abu (Lucy Sinclair), Jasmine (Charley Miller), Prince Ali (Spencer Hayward), and Genie (Eve Blackall) in a tug of war with Jafar (Taylor Taborsky) and Iago (Brigette Cook). PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Name the Roman god of fire (6)

7 What is an establishment in which fish are kept (8)

8 Which fastener is used to hold up stockings (6)

9 Name the capital city of Australia (8)

10 Name a lively Spanish dance in three four time (6)

11 What is a book dealing with some particular subject (8)

14 Which devices are used for lifting and moving heavy weights (8)

18 Which Aboriginal artist designed the Aboriginal flag; Harold ... (6)

19 What is a minor exhibition in a circus or the like (8)

21 Name the capital of Turkey (6)

22 Who is charged with the control of an institution etc (8)

23 What is a domesticated ass (6)

DOWN

1 Which term describes an idle worthless fellow (8)

2 Which Governor of NSW was awarded the VC in WWII; Sir Roden ... (6)

3 Which substance blunts the senses (8)

4 To injure something irretrievably is to do what (4)

5 Name an earlier term for silver (6)

6 What is wanton violence stemming from excessive pride (6)

12 In which direction does the sun rise (8)

13 What is an agent sent on a mission (8)

15 Name a prolific US inventor Thomas (6)

16 What are bailiffs or stewards known as (6)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in

17 Which small pointed instrument is used for making holes in cloth etc (6)

20 Name a former Australian champion squash player; Geoff ... (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

1 EUTHANASIA

(a) The property of being easily melted (b) Good order (c) An easy mode of death

2 INVERACITY

(a) An untruth (b) Sarcasm or satire (c) Indecision

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

At the bottom (5)

Backbone (5)

Broad Area Search (3)

Distorts (5)

Jewish deliverer (7) Marriage notice (5) Special Air Services (3) Spider’s mesh (3) Tell untruth (3) White root vegetable (7)

Agricultural exchange students help out at Oxley Primary School

OXLEY Primary School

students got a helping hand from nine aspiring young farmers from Queensland and Victoria participating in the Australian Future Farmers exchange program last week.

The program participants spent last week in the North East, immersed in a variety of industries, including viticulture, intensive beef production, boutique farming enterprises and the strong links to tourism in the area.

Their visit to Oxley was to see the school’s Agricultural Science Program in action.

Oxley Primary School principal, Tim Seal, said it’s important to engage young people in the potential opportunities in agricultural industries.

“I am of the belief that the children here need to learn about their local area and industries they could get into,” he said.

“All of our students are involved in the program.

“It’s been unbelievably beneficial for the kids, they look forward to coming out here.”

Students and exchange participants worked

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

together to prepare the garden to be planted with Australian natives.

Amanda Naish from the Australian Future Farmers exchange program said the day helped show the “little people what they could end up doing as a big person”.

“We really want to encourage and sow the seed to get them interested and show them what agricultural opportunities are out there,” she said.

“Even if these kids don’t go into agriculture they will at least have an understanding about where their food comes from.”

Brooklyn Friels, who travelled from Queensland for the program, said it was an opportunity to learn about diverse farming and agricultural practices to help plan for a future career.

Jethro Novak from Myrtleford said he signed up for the program because he loves farming.

“It’s what I see myself doing in the future,” he said.

Film screening, panel to help shine a light on mental health of farmers

IN recognition of the challenges facing farmers and rural communities the Victorian Farmers Markets Association is hosting a special screening of ‘Just A Farmer’ at the Swanpool Cinema on Friday, May 17, from 7pm to 10pm.

The screening will be followed by supper and a discussion panel session featuring leading actor, writer and producer Leila McDougall, ‘The Unbreakable Farmer’, Warren Davies and Jim Moll, Rural Financial Counsellor based in Benalla.

The panel will discuss the challenges rural communities face when dealing

with mental health.

VFMA executive officer and 2022 Rural Community Leader of the Year, Sarah Parker, will moderate the panel.

“The panel that will follow the screening of ‘Just a Farmer’ brings together expertise, personal stories, and advocacy, making it a valuable discussion for anyone interested in agriculture, mental health, and community wellbeing,” Ms Parker said.

‘Just a Farmer’ is an uplifting and beautiful film that authentically depicts the challenges and triumphs of a resilient rural Australian farmer.

The story revolves around a farmer who is forced to forge a new path for her family after her husband’s tragic suicide.

The film sheds light on critical mental health issues within farming communities, emphasising the need for awareness and support.

The initiative is brought to you by the Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association in collaboration with Benalla Sustainable Future Group and Swanpool Cinema.

Tickets are available at https://www.trybooking. com/CQQZB.

Commencing: 1st June 2024, Term – 3 years, with Option of additional 3 years

Open for inspection: Tuesday, May 21, 2024 from 3-4pm

Tenders closing: 4pm Thursday, May 23, 2024

Tender forms and any information AGENT DETAILS Daniel Fischer | 0429 165 073 | daniel.fischer@nutrien.com.au

ENGAGING YOUNG PEOPLE: Russell Berlin working with Oxley Primary School students in their Agricultural Science Program.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE: Amanda Naish, Keira Phipps and Russell Berlin are leading the Australian Future Farmers exchange program.

FUTURE FARMERS: Program participants Brooklyn Friels (left) and Jethro Novak (right) with Oxley Primary School students William Perkins, Aurdey Hester and William Leochel were excited to work together in the garden.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

SOUTH WANGARATTA FIRE BRIGADE

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Brigade members and elections for the Brigade Management Team will be held at the South Wangaratta Fire Station on Monday, June 3, 2024 at 7.30pm. Members of the public are invited to attend.

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

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL. Ph 0466 897 315.

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 Julian 0412 597 482.

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

Accounts & Office Manager

North East Media and Group Companies

Full Time

North East Media and associated companies are looking for an experienced accounts and office manager to bring their expertise into play in a role that is pivotal to our success.

If you are looking to be a part of a company that values your skills and offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team then this role would be ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing financial management, billing, payroll and accounts payable/receivable.

• Managing the administration operations of the media business, including workflow management, resource allocation, and staff supervision.

• Implementing and maintaining efficient office systems and procedures to enhance productivity and quality improvement processes.

• Providing leadership and guidance to the team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in accounts and administration.

• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and colleagues.

• Intermediate to Advance Level in the Microsoft suite of products (Outlook, Word and Excel).

• Experience in accounting systems such as Xero or MYOB.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to: Edward Higgins CEO North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

OP Industries Pty Ltd is seeking a

ANGUS Bulls, very quiet, great EBV’s. Murramungee Angus Stud, visit mmas.com. au or phone Howard on 0429 809 288.

2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER, reg (UDQ911), auto, ST diesel, 7 seater, 180,000km, cruise control, 1 owner, VGC, extras rear park camera, $8000 ono. Call Robin 0412 485 113.

FORD Falcon, 2006, (TZX689) reg till July 1, $2000 ono, Ph 0409 497 538.

MAY, Harry Stuart “H”. 24/2/1959 - 9/5/2024

Forever loved and remembered by family and friends. Milawa legend. Always a legend.

MUMMERY, Darryl “Daz”.

Passed away May 8, 2024. No more suffering, you are now at peace. We have lost a link in our chain. Much loved friend and brother-in-law of Paul and Marina, Biddy and George, Tony and Vicki. Loved and respected Uncle to all his nieces and nephews and their families.

Accord Euro sedan 2005, red, auto, one owner, regularly serviced, runs well, reg (TNC309), no RWC, straight, 466,686km, Whitfield, $1800 ono. Ph 0447 526 403.

WHITING, David. 2/10/1955 – 9/5/2024 Sadly passed away at Northeast Health Wangaratta. Much loved son of Ronald (dec) and Dorothy (dec). Adored by siblings Margaret, Jeanette, Steven (dec) and Leonie. Loved uncle of Shannon and Kelly, and Kenneth and Amy. Great uncle to Bridget, Ryley, Eva and Lucy.

4.6 Fibre Glass boat/trailer, 70hp Yamaha, very little use, all safety gear, new seats, awning, paint and gel coat, t otally refurbished, new transom, GPS, Sounder, $10,000. Ph 0407 161 665.

MAY

The graveside service to celebrate the life of Harry “H” May will be held at the Milawa Cemetery, 347 Kerrs Road Milawa, on Friday, May 17, 2024 commencing at 10.30am. Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

0101

FOLINO, Marino.

May 13, 2004. 20th Anniversary. Everywhere in nature’s tapestry and forever in our hearts.

Always loved, never forgotten. ~ Love Mum, Dad (dec), Liana and Tania.

GAMBOLD, Betty. Always remembered by your husband Philip (dec) and sons Ian and Noel and family.

MELOURY-KAUP, Joshua Zane. 31/7/1994 - 14/5/2010 Gone but not forgotten, Gone but ever here. No longer living in this world, But always and ever near. You are no longer with us, No more laughter, joy, or play, Not a moment in our life goes by, That we don’t think of you each day. All our love. - Mum, Andy and Cody.

Cherished Memories

In loving memory of Chris O’Connor. February 14, 1948 – May 13, 2022. When God was making husbands as far as I can see, He made a special soulmate especially for me. He made a perfect gentleman, compassionate and kind, With more love and affection than you could wish to find. He gave my darling husband a heart of solid gold, He gave me wonderful memories only my heart can hold. He was someone I could talk to, that no one can replace, He was someone I could laugh with, till tears ran down my face. Next time we meet will be at heaven’s door, When I see you standing there I won't cry anymore, I will put my arms around you and kiss your smiling face. And the pieces of my heart will fall back into place. ~ Shirley Ann.

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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 the medical care and attention provided. Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676. The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.

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WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND MURRAY SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD RESERVES

GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Matthew Casey 8, Leigh Williams 5, William Wheeler 2, Damien Wilson 2, Ryan Einsporn 1, Bailey Frauenfelder 1, Michael Gibbons 1, Perry Lewis-Smith 1, Geoffrey Montgomery 1, Jordan Urquhart 1, Harrison Wheeler 1, Cameron Wilson 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: Archer Scammell 2, Nick Bracher 1, Ned Conway 1, Cameron EllisYolmen 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: Lach Howe, Matthew Casey, Perry Lewis-smith, Leigh Williams, William Wheeler, Nicholas Irvine. WODONGA RAIDERS: Nelson Bowey, Archer Scammell, Cooper Daly, Justin Gordon, Nick Bracher, Harry Sweetman.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Murphy-Dale 6, Brody Ricardi 4, Charlie Crisp 2, Ryley Bouker 1, Jaxon East 1, Damon Harrington 1, Lachlan Plummer 1, Ned Turner 1, Levi Young 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Sam Dunstan 3, Nathan Dunstan 1, Kade Kuschert 1, Connor Leslie 1, Christian Masson Moyle 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Murphy-Dale, Toby Cossor, Brody Ricardi, Simon Curtis, Jaxon East, Zac Pethybridge. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Christian Masson Moyle, Ryan Eyers, Nathan Dunstan, Kade Kuschert, Sam Dunstan, Darcy Hope.

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

Wangaratta 49 def Lavington 35

Myrtleford 38 def by Corowa Rutherglen 60 North Albury 57 def Wangaratta Rovers 36 Wodonga 44 def Albury 36 Yarrawonga 52 def Wodonga Raiders 36

B GRADE: Wodonga 41 def Albury 40 North Albury 45 def by Wangaratta Rovers 47 Myrtleford 58 def Corowa Rutherglen 38 Wangaratta 45 def Lavington 18 Yarrawonga 44 def Wodonga Raiders 41

C GRADE: Wodonga 42 drew with Albury 42 Myrtleford 34 def Corowa Rutherglen 32 Wangaratta 54 def Lavington 25 Yarrawonga 44 def Wodonga Raiders 33 North Albury 45 def Wangaratta Rovers 31

17 & UNDER: Yarrawonga 9 def by Wodonga Raiders 71

Myrtlefor 36 def Corowa Rutherglen 29 Wangaratta 54 def Lavington 12 North Albury 40 def by Wangaratta Rovers 51 Wodonga 86 def Albury 34 15 & UNDER: Wangaratta 29 def by Lavington 61

Yarrawonga 18 def by Wodonga Raiders 39 North Albury 36 def by Wangaratta Rovers 60

Myrtleford 66 def Corowa Rutherglen 16

Wodonga 29 def by Albury 50

North Albury 3.4.22 def by Wangaratta Rovers 11.14.80

BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Will Clohesy, Connor Hetherton, Christian Moncrieff, Marty Norman, Tyrone Ellis. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Cormac McNamara, Bay Pellegrino, Samuel Comensoli, Ryley Ely, Cooper Gracie, Preston Coleman. GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: Tyrone Ellis 1, Toby Hunt 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Jock Correll 2, Cormac McNamara 2, Jaxon Coleman 1, Samuel Comensoli 1, Trey Vincent 1. Wangaratta 9.8.62 def Lavington 6.6.42

BEST: WANGARATTA: Blake Newton, Charlie Haring, Oscar Roberts, Chad Donald, Max Bihun, Hamish Laverty. LAVINGTON: Thomas Goonan, Mason Plunkett, Archy Cohalan, Daniel Finnimore, Harryson Barber, Thomas McGrath. GOALS: WANGARATTA: Max Bihun 4, Oscar Roberts 2, John Blake 1, Cooper Newton 1, Corey Petersen 1. LAVINGTON: Harryson Barber 4, Thomas McGrath 1, Carson Way 1. Myrtleford 6.8.44 def by Corowa Rutherglen 15.10.100

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Samuel Crisp, Cooper Howden, Nicholas Hall, Ethan Edwards, Jack Hazeldine, Jude Browne. COROWA

RUTHERGLEN: Rory Beattie, Lenny Hill, Angus Williams, Ethan lane, Jay Lavis, Caile Duryea. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Cooper Howden 3, Lachlan Barbour 1, Nicholas Hall 1, Jack Hazeldine 1. COROWA

RUTHERGLEN: Isaac Dickinson 4, Caile Duryea 3, Jay Lavis 3, Angus Williams 3, Cooper Connell 2. Yarrawonga 8.5.53 def by Wod. Raiders 18.6.114 Wodonga 4.9.33 def by Albury 5.8.38

GOALS: WANGARATTA: Callum Moore 6, Fraser Holland-Dean 3, Michael Newton 2, Charley Holland-Dean 1, Jessie Smith 1. LAVINGTON: Tim Oosterhoff 2, Shaun Driscoll 1, Jake O’Brien 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: Alex Federico, Will O’Keefe, Nick Richards, Fraser Ellis, Chris Knowles, Callum Moore. LAVINGTON: William Glanvill, Shaun Driscoll, Jack Costello, Jesse Hart, Nick Paton, Christopher Annett.

GOALS: WODONGA: Matthew Wilson 5, Ethan Redcliffe 2, Jack C O’Sullivan 1, Kyle WinterIrving 1, Jack Yelland 1. ALBURY: Lachlan Tiziani 4, Charlie McGrath 2, Fletcher Carroll 1, Kolby Heiner-Hennessy 1, Mat Walker 1. BEST: WODONGA: Matthew Wilson, Jack O’Sullivan, Jack C O’Sullivan, Noah Bradshaw, Charlie Morrison, Adam Jorgensen. ALBURY: Lachlan Tiziani, Isaac Muller, Max Byrne, Jackson Kelly, Tom O’Brien, Jeff Garlett.

GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: Joshua Minogue 2, Kieran Duncan 1, Ben Fulford 1, Foster Gardiner 1, Jack Penny 1, Keith Tallent 1, Cayden Winter 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Nathan Cooper 5, Alex McCarthy 3, Alexander Marklew 2, Dylan Wilson 2, Stuart Booth 1, Samuel Cattapan 1, Jack Gerrish 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Jack Penny, Julian Hayes, Harry Weaven, Archer Gardiner, Cayden Winter. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Tom Boyd, Nathan Cooper, Lockey McCartney, Brodie Filo, Alex McCarthy, Justin Lewis. NORTH ALBURY

WINNERS AND LOSERS

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Damian Broughton 4, Michael Ryan 2, Sam Cox 1, Tom Levy 1, Tyson Ryan 1, Jordan Smith 1. KING VALLEY: Ben Bray 4, Anthony Ciancio 2, Newyear Patiole 2, Dylan Browne 1, William Davies 1, Ryan Wait 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Kieran Linke, Jayden Brady, Chelton Orchard, Sam Cox, Tom Levy, Michael Ryan. KING VALLEY: Ben Bray, Jack Davies, Daniel Maples, Thomas Stewart, Sam Evans, Parker Voigt. GRETA

GOALS: GRETA: Cody Crawford 6, James McClounan 4, Joshua Bell 2, Tyler Arrowsmith 1, Jack Baker 1, Jack Kelly 1, Lachie Kennett 1, Brenton Newbold 1, Dale Walker 1. WHOROULY: Oliver Dixon 2, Lachlan Moore 1, Samuel Piazza 1, Cody Poulton 1.BEST: GRETA: Mark Wettern, Jack Kelly, James McClounan, Joshua Bell, Ben Hogan, Jarrod Morham. WHOROULY: William Allen, Edward Bramich, Matthew Vescio, Samuel Piazza, Oliver Dixon, Xavier Vogrig.

*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.

A GRADE: Benalla 29 def by King Valley 61

B GRADE: Benalla 39 def King Valley 26

B RESERVE: Goorambat 18 def by Bonnie Doon 64

C GRADE: Benalla 12 def by King Valley 51; Goorambar 48 def by Bonnie Doon 62; Nth Wang 38 def Tarrawingee 37 15 & UNDER: Benalla 15 def by King Valley 30; Goorambat 6 def by Bonnie Doon 69; Nth Wang 25 def Tarrawingee 20 Not all scores available at time of print.

ROUND

8

SATURDAY, MAY 18

BONNIE DOON vs KING VALLEY

GOORAMBAT vs BENALLA NORTH

WANGARATTA vs BRIGHT

WHOROULY vs MILAWA

TARRAWINGEE vs MOYHU

GRETA - BYE

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 5, Dylan Beavis 2, Angus Burston 1, Rhys Goodley 1, Brayden Stepien 1. BONNIE DOON: Conor Heaslip 3, Matthew Hedin 3, Al Bennett 2, Campbell Smedley 2, Will Foster 1, James Law 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: Jamie Dunne, James Webster, Angus Burston, Dylan Beavis, Brady Purcell, Travers Nolan. BONNIE DOON: Matthew Hedin, Conor Heaslip, Will Foster, Guy Murray, James Fox, Joel Sanford.

WANGARATTA

GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: Tyler Nanson 5, Damien Bradley 4, Liam McDonell 2, Matthew Prestianni 2, Jack Brown 1, Matthew Curtis 1, Zach Heard 1, Josh Nanson 1, Taylor O’Brien 1. TARRAWINGEE: William Styles 2, Dylan Adams 1, Seth Coonan 1, Timothy Judd 1, Sam Peters 1. BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: Damien Bradley, Sean Gales, David Killen, Matthew Curtis, Thomas Johnson, Zach Heard. TARRAWINGEE: Reiley Murtagh, Will Creed, William Styles, Sam Piper, Dylan Adams, Deacon Cleal.

GOALS: MOYHU: Harrison Grant 4, Harrison Bell 1, Jett Roberts 1, Darby West 1, Bailey Zimmermann 1. MILAWA: Jarryd Wallace 6, Simon Pane 4, Braydon Kearns 2, Brady Bartlett 1, Aiden Bihun 1. BEST: MOYHU: Noah Campbell, Richard Marais, Dylan Carmody, Matthew Thrum, Harrison Grant, Harry Verdon. MILAWA: Tyler Dunn, Aiden Bihun, Jarryd Wallace, Brandon Fitzpatrick, Daniel Bihun, Simon Pane.

Joel Bihun, Patrick Sullivan. COROWA-RUTHERGLEN: Lucas Tafft, Jayke Nicholson, Angus Williams, Benjamin Black, Jarrod Bowering, Samuel Haigh. Yarrawonga ..........16.17.113 Wodonga Raiders .......3.2.20

Rovers

NORTH ALBURY: Darcey Cullen, Callum Fisher, James Webb, Leighton Coe, Connor Bradbury. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Sam Nolan, Harry McMonigle,

Rovers roll Hoppers by 40-points MATCH REVIEWS

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA Rovers’ dream start to 2024 continued with a strong display against the revamped North Albury.

The Hoppers have been the most improved side this season, but the Hawks showed their class in the 15.10 (100) to 8.12 (60) clash.

Rovers co-captain Tom Boyd played his best game in Hawks colours taking numerous intercept marks down back – a strength of his thus far this season.

Rovers football operations manager Barry Sullivan said it was an emphatic display.

“We knew we couldn’t underestimate them, they’ve been playing some good footy this year,” Sullivan said.

“Our history on their ground hasn’t been pleasant so we knew we’d have to be on our game and thankfully we were.

“At the end of the day we were confident that we could get it done.”

Along with Boyd’s strong performance, VFL-listed defender Nathan Cooper was thrown forward in his first game for Rovers this season, booting five majors.

Cooper represented the VFL last month against the SANFL and was available to play for the Hawks as Werribee had the bye.

“Putting Nathan Cooper forward was a bit of a gamble because he’s a premier backman,” Sullivan said.

“Our back six have been performing really well so we didn’t want to mess around with that too much and Nathan had said that he wouldn’t mind giving forward a go.

“He’s a strong player and can take a good mark, so we knew that side of his game would suit forward, it was just whether he could get the leading patterns and forward craft right.

“North Albury’s a small ground and

it probably suited him given he can take a strong mark.”

Sullivan was in awe of Boyd’s performance as well.

“Tom’s just been extremely impressive from the start of pre-season,” he said.

“He’s so committed to the club, he takes training in Wangaratta and prepares as well as anyone so it’s no shock that he’s playing some great footy this year.”

Rovers led by 17-points at three quarter time, but a six goal to three final term saw the margin blow out to 40-points.

Tough midfielder Lockey McCartney was also strong in the win, while Alex McCarthy booted three majors in a solid display.

“Lockey played a role on Tim Broomhead and they had a fantastic battle,” Sullivan said.

“They each had their moments and it was a good tussle, we know how damaging Tim can be but Lockey did a good job on him.

“Alex McCarthy was also great, he’s the footballer’s footballer, he’s clean, never takes his eyes off the footy and kicking three in the final quarter was the icing on the cake for him.”

The win came at a cost though as Murray, who has been arguably the competition’s best player this season, limped off with a hamstring injury in the first half, while Cameron Chamberlain went to hospital after the game with a suspected wrist injury.

“We don’t think ‘Muz’s hamstring injury is a high grade one,” Sullivan said.

“We can probably expect to miss him next week and then we have the interleague bye and after that we have Myrtleford, so whether or not he gets up for that game I’m not too sure.

“He won’t risk it if it’s not 100 per cent, he’s an integral part of our side and we have to get it right.”

Magpies trending positively, make light work of Lavington

■ From back page

While Moore has now kicked 19 goals from six games, his six-goal bag against the Panthers looked more like the Morris Medal winning star of 2022.

Reid feels his star forward is nearing his best.

“Cal’s last three weeks have been really strong, he’s starting to find form,” he said.

“He’s been solid this season, but he hasn’t quite been at his best, but I feel like he’s not too far off that.

“He kicked six and probably could’ve kicked 10, we know how important he is to us and I’m sure he’ll continue to improve from here.”

Reid was all praise for O’Keefe, who since coming into the senior side against Yarrawonga in round four, has been named in the best in two of his three matches.

“Will was great and he got reward off the back of his pressure,” he said.

“He’s got a great work rate, is clean with the footy and doesn’t miss targets so he’s giving us a different look up forward.

“He gets to the right spots too, it’s great to see a young guy doing well.”

ONE ON ONE: Dylan Wilson battles for the ball.

ON THE BOOT: Lockey McCartney throws the ball on the boot.

DOMINANT: Werribee backman Nathan Cooper kicked five goals for Rovers.

ROVERS WIN: Brodie Filo (centre) celebrates a goal with Nathan Cooper (right) and Alex Marklew in Rovers’ win over North Albury. PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

IN AND UNDER: Daine Porter gets his hands dirty.UNDER PRESSURE: Jessie Smith gets a handball off

BURSTING THROUGH: Will O’Keefe gets away.

STRONG WIN: Aidan Tilley’s Wangaratta made easy work of Lavington at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday. PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

MATCH REVIEWS

Hot start helps put North Wang Hawks back on the winners list

By NATHAN DE VRIES

A MASSIVE effort from their forwards has seen North Wangaratta triumph over a charging Tarrawingee outfit, winning 18.12 (120) to 6.6 (42).

After almost a month in the wilderness, North Wangaratta cracked into the match with intent, forging a seven-goal first term while keeping the Bulldogs scoreless.

Tarrawingee fought back, converting on two chances inside their forward 50, but the Hawks’ kept the pressure up at the contest to lead by 54 points at the half-time break.

The game broke open in the third quarter, with six further goals coming for the Hawks, but Tarrawingee’s forwards had plenty to celebrate as well.

The Hawks’ backline proved their worth late in the match, restricting the Bulldogs to just three behinds for the final term.

North Wangaratta coach Steve Manning said it was good to take a win after a challenging few weeks of football.

“We’ve played some good sides during the start of the year, we’ve played some good footy but we’ve also played poor footy,” he said.

“On Saturday it was good to get some reward, because there’s no doubt the boys have been working hard for a while now, we had a plan and it all clicked into gear right from the start.

“We knew Tarrawingee had belief they were going to come and get a result, they were pretty buoyant.

“Our message during the week was about getting the first punch in and making sure we’re the ones attacking the footy.”

Damien Bradley starred with six goals for the match, four coming in the first term, while Tyler Nanson also hit the scoreboard in a major way.

“No one’s put in as much work as Damien this season, he’s spent a lot of time in the midfield, but on Saturday he didn’t go into one centre bounce,” Manning said.

“I told him to stay forward and play as half forward/half midfielder.

“I told him ‘if you find yourself anywhere in range between 60m and 40m on your left, I want you to have a go,’ and he did.

“Our backline has been superb this season – the footy’s been down there a little bit in the first month or so of the season, but on Saturday our backline was really well set up, winning their one on ones and willing to come across and mark in opposition.

“Our focus has been on getting some improvement in our midfield and forward line.

“Our midfield were really good, Josh Nanson and Dave Killen really stood up early and got us going, and our forward line worked as well.”

For the Bulldogs, Reiley Murtagh, Will Creed, and William Styles all turned in solid performances.

The Hawks’ reserves also tasted success, coming home winners by 31 points, 12.10 (82) to 8.3 (51).

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE reigning senior premiers of the Ovens and King competition survived a scare on the weekend, with Bonnie Doon defeating Goorambat by 22 points, 12.13 (85) to 10.3 (63).

The Bombers led by 14 points at quarter time, but some sure kicking from the Bats brought them back within a goal by half-time.

Bonnie Doon’s midfield engine worked overtime to feed the ball down to their forwards, bringing another four goals through the third quarter, but the Bats refused to give up the fight.

The final term was an arm wrestle, with the class of Matt Hedin and Will Foster seeing the Bombers home.

Jamie Dunne was electric in the midfield for the Bats, while Duane Haebich was dominant up forward with his five goals.

In other round seven matches, Greta handed Whorouly a 92-point loss, but the match was in the

balance at half-time.

The Lions trailed by just 19 points at the long break off the back of some brilliant work at stoppages and a determination to take the game on and win the footy.

Greta’s class shone through in the third term, with the Blues proving themselves across the ground.

Cody Crawford booted six goals, while James McClounan (four goals) and Josh Bell (two) also impacted the scoreboard.

For the Lions, winger Will Allen was explosive, Ed Bramich battled hard all day down back, and Paul Glanville performed well in his 300th senior appearance for the Lions.

Elsewhere, King Valley secured their third win of the season against a rampaging Benalla All Blacks outfit.

The Panthers came close to an upset win and were in the contest all day, but King Valley managed to hold on to take an 11.11 (77) to 10.8 (68) win.

Just two points separated

the sides early in the match, before the Roos took an 11-point lead into the second half.

King Valley could’ve put the game to bed in the third quarter but failed to convert inside their 50, kicking 3.4 for the quarter.

A tense and frantic final term fell the way of the Roos, with Ben Bray, Jack Davies and Dan Maples impressing for King Valley.

Benalla’s Damian Broughton booted four goals for his side, while Chelton Orchard and Kieran Linke were among the best on ground. Milawa proved too good for Moyhu in their match, with the Demons winning 15.8 (98) to 8.5 (53).

Jarryd Wallace was immense up forward, finishing with six goals to his name, while Tyler Dunn and Simon Pane had a massive impact on the game.

For the Hoppers, Noah Campbell, Dylan Carmody and Matt Thrum performed well, while Harrison Grant kicked four goals.

SLIDER: Sam Piper takes a low mark.

POSSESSION: Tom Johnson taps the ball along, under pressure from Tom Salmon.

RISE UP: Jarrod Everitt and Adam Enever go up in the ruck.

PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

DIG DEEP: Will Foster and the Bombers were challenged by Goorambat, but ultimately proved to be too good.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Rovers roll North Albury

Page 18

TOO STRONG

NORTH Wangaratta skipper David Killen shrugs off the tackle from Tarrawingee’s Sam Piper in the Hawks’ 78-point win on Saturday. The Hawks booted seven goals in the first term to set the tone for the day. Story: page 19.

WANGARATTA secured the win they were after as they made light work of Lavington at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday.

After a slow start to the season, the Magpies have now banked two wins in a row with their 62-point victory over the Panthers their

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

most impressive yet.

O’Keefe were among their best.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid was pleased with the win.

played their role and when you do that you get a good result.

had kicked 5.11 to the half.

Callum Moore booted six majors in the 14.13 (97) to 4.11 (35) affair, while Alex Federico and youngster Will

“It was our best team performance yet,” Reid said.

“The only downside was our inaccuracy in the first half, we probably could’ve put them (Lavington) away earlier.”

“Our mids were a lot better at winning or halving the contest and our pressure around the footy was heaps better which makes it easier for the defenders,” Reid said.

“We had 22 contributors across the board, everyone

The Magpies were on song from the get-go, leading by 30 points at half-time but

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

“We were able to put them to the sword in the third quarter, but we should’ve put them away by half-time.

“Our whole pre-game was about our game, we didn’t talk too much about them –we knew if we brought the things we wanted to do the result would take care of itself and pleasingly we ticked all those things off.”

■ Continued page 18 Wangaratta

PHOTO: Marc Bongers