MAJOR CLEAN-UP: Firefighters donned protective gear on Monday as they assessed the aftermath of a serious blaze at Wangaratta’s former Ovens College the previous afternoon. The blaze at an asbestos-filled western building required almost 100 firefighters to bring the flames under control into Sunday night.
INVESTIGATIONS remain ongoing into a “possibly suspicious” fire at Wangaratta’s former Ovens College on Sunday afternoon, which saw almost 100 firefighters turn out in response.
The asbestos-filled building burned for almost five hours, causing severe damage to large sections of the interior, exterior and roof of the abandoned school, after smoke was first seen emanating from the area around 2.30pm.
BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au
On Monday this week heavy machinery was used to tear down large sections of a 20m by 40m western building impacted by the blaze.
At the height of the fire on Sunday, up to 25 CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria appliances were
on scene, as firefighters donned breathing apparatus to attack the fire both internally and externally before structural concerns forced a change of strategy.
CFA District 23 command was also in attendance, and a warning was issued to nearby residents amid concerns the asbestos-filled building could be emitting toxic smoke.
“We had the ground floor, which was the main part of the building (which) when we got here was where most of
the fire activity was,” Wangaratta FRV station controller Rob Skase said.
“We sent crews in to try and suppress the fire in that area, and they did a pretty good job and had almost managed to extinguish it, and then we noticed that it had actually dropped into a sub-floor area where there was a bit of a storage area and there was a variety of flammable materials that had been stored down there.
■ Continued page 3
TROUT season is in full force across the North East, with the re-opening of local rivers and streams offering anglers an abundance of options to try their luck.
Wangaratta Fly Fishing Club members are among those who’ve been venturing out since the season opening on September 2, with club secretary Ray Beavis reporting encouraging results.
“Rivers have been in great condition and while a little lower than anticipated, the water was clear, which made for ideal fly fishing conditions
on opening weekend,” he said.
“The fishing in the morning was a little slow but as the day warmed up so did the fishing.
“There appeared to be good numbers of fish in the rivers and a well presented fly would often result in a hit.
“While the odd brown trout was landed, most fish caught were rainbows in the 22cm to 28cm range.
“Our club members are great promoters of catch and release in the local streams to ensure our fisheries are sustainable,
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
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and all fish landed were returned to the water.”
For anyone interested in learning more about fly fishing, the Wangaratta Fly Fishing Club is conducting its annual fly fishing course on Sunday, October 8.
The cost for the day is $70 and places are strictly limited.
The course runs from 10am to 4pm and covers the basics of fly fishing, including equipment, streamcraft and casting tuition, and if you wish to book in for this course, contact Ray on 0427 756 665.
KEITH Kilo was beaming, immersed in the colourful canopy of orchids transforming Wangaratta’s St Patrick’s Hall into a veritable garden of Eden for Wangaratta District Orchid Society’s annual show over the weekend.
“There are some magnificent specimens,” the avid grower enthused, with wife and fellow orchid lover Jenny nodding in agreement.
Together at their Tabletop home the couple grow around 600 orchids, and their best exhibits were among the toast of this year’s show.
Their Cymbidium Allumination was judged the ‘Best Cymbidium’ of the show as well as the ‘Champion exhibit by a club member’, while they took out the ‘Best Australian Native’ by a club member and ‘Best Specimen Orchid’ with their Dendrobium Aussie Starlight ‘Joy’ AD.
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They also won ‘Best Species Orchid’ with their Dockrillia fairfaxii and ‘Pre-eminent Exhibit’ by a club member with their Dockrillia teretifolia.
“I’m particularly delighted with the champion cymbidium...it’s a complex hybrid which I bought from Beechworth grower Anna Christensen 12 month ago,” he explained.
“You’re never quite sure how they will flower.
“Taking care of them is a daily passion and challenge.
“We keep them under a hard roof to control their water levels (no exposure to rain), fertilise them every couple of weeks and guard against disease and pests.
“We’ve been growing orchids for 28 years and you’ve got to keep on persevering... it took me 27 years to win grand champion at the Lavington show last year.”
Wangaratta District Orchid Society president John Hawker said entries at the weekend’s show were a little down on last year because of a difficult growing season.
“Cymbidiums were flowering
two to three weeks later because of what scientists call ‘global dimming’ due to climate change,” he said.
“Basically the differential between daytime high
temperatures and cool overnight temperatures meant it took longer for flower buds to form.”
Mr Hawker said the overall standard of entries remained
excellent, with good orchid sales and public visitation across both days.
Adrian and Kathy Goodall of Wodonga took out the coveted title of ‘Grand Champion Orchid’ of the show with their hybrid Australian native Dendrobium Anthedon Splendour, which also won the ‘Best Australian Native’.
The couple also won the ‘Reserve Champion Orchid’, ‘Best Other Genera’ and ‘Best Orchid by an open grower’ with their Dendrobium Grumpy Veil exhibit.
Other prize winners included: John Hawker for best orchid art, best orchid by a novice grower and WOC Novice Aggregate Trophy winner; Jessica Goodall for best seedling flowering first time and best orchid by an intermediate grower; Hans Proebsting for best orchid photo and best companion plant; Max Davies and Jacques Garnier for best display; and Rob Monteith won the WOC Open Aggregate Trophy.
By SIMONE KERWIN
WORK is under way on the next stage of a project aimed at upgrading the Wangaratta Showgrounds area as an emergency relief centre.
The Rural City of Wangaratta last year received $2 million from the Federal Government as part of the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants program to carry out the works.
Development includes improvements to the Wangaratta rodeo grounds; upgrades to the Wangaratta Football Netball Club change rooms; relocation and expansion of the Wangaratta Lions Club shed; expansion of the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club; provision of cooling and heating to the existing sports development centre; and wayfinding signage.
The works are aimed at enabling council to better prepare, coordinate and facilitate a seamless relief centre during an emergency, and will also deliver key outcomes identified as part of the Parklands Masterplan.
Wangaratta Football Netball
Club president Ellyn O’Brien
said work around the dog club had been carried out, and the Lions club shed work was starting, with fencing now in place and works beginning on new change rooms around the Magpies’ Norm Minns Oval base.
“Then, once the season is finished for us, we will gut and renovate the existing change rooms, in
a project we’re funding,” she said.
“It will be amazing when it’s done, and will make us competitive with Lavington for big games, putting us in the mix for AFL and AFLW games.
“We are doing a lot of work with council on attracting more major events.
“These works will make it a better facility for all users, in-
FOUR North East organisations will share in more than $390,000 in FRRR funding to assist local communities in areas of drought preparedness and resilience.
AgBiz Assist Limited was awarded $200,328 to cover two separate programs, Startup Shakeup will receive $95,000, and Alpine Valleys Community Leadership (AVCL) Fund will benefit from $95,000.
A wellbeing and social connection program facilitated by AgBiz Assist will build capacity of local people and communities in the Rural City of Wangaratta and Indigo Shire after $170,328 was awarded by FRRR.
The program will develop the skills and knowledge to face the unique challenges caused by drought through mental health awareness and support activities and training.
cluding the junior league and Murray Bushrangers.”
The works are expected to be completed early in 2024, ready for next year’s football season.
“It’s exciting, and will be good not just for the club but for the community, when we do have those unfortunate events or when we host big events,” Ms O’Brien said.
■ From page 1
“That caused some fairly rapid fire extension and that caused the floor to be compromised, and as we heard the floor was compromised we called for all firefighters to exit the building.
“One of the early red flag warnings was to make sure that people understood the floor was unstable and crews were no longer allowed inside the building, but also to make sure that everybody stayed outside the danger area for any structural collapse.”
Mr Skase said ply panels used to cover up windows had also been observed falling from the building in flames, and internal and external walls had collapsed, particularly on the building’s north side.
Wangaratta police were subsequently expected to investigate the cause of the fire.
Detective Senior Constable James Nelson of Wangaratta
police said investigators were asking anyone who noticed suspicious activity in the vicinity between 2pm and 2.30pm to come forward.
An FRV spokesperson said the fire had occurred under “possible suspicious circumstances”.
“We’re still getting all the pieces together,” DSC Nelson said.
“Anyone who witnessed anyone at the scene can contact police… through Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000) or through the (Wangaratta Police Station) watch house number (5723 0888).”
Mr Skase said he had confirmed the building had previously been disconnected from the town’s power grid, and noted the Rural
City of Wangaratta would be expected to complete a survey of the remaining structure in the coming days.
“The main concern now is the asbestos – we’re hoping council are working to get temporary fencing arranged to make the site safe and inaccessible,” he said.
“In the meantime we need to try and get a message out to people that it’s not safe to be on the site and to stay away from it.
“It’s up to council now to send a building surveyor around and determine the integrity of the rest of the building because it is also fire damaged, and I would think longterm they would have to demolish the rest of the building.”
Rural City of Wangaratta director community and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said council would continue to work with other authorities involved to make sure the site is safe for the community.
AgBiz Assist will also facilitate and strengthen drought preparedness and drive local action in the Ovens Murray region through the coordination of Community Impact Program activities and evaluation administration.
Startup Shakeup will roll out a digital works skills program in Wangaratta and Indigo areas to build the capacity of local people and communities to develop the skills and knowledge to face the unique challenges caused by drought through business digital skills training.
AVCL will support capacity building activities where local people and communities have opportunities to develop skills and knowledge to deal with drought through its community leadership program.
FRRR awarded $3.65 million in grants to 11 agriculture-dependent regions across Australia, for projects that will better prepare their communities for the impacts of drought and a changing climate.
The $3,654,124 in grants is funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, and delivered as part of the Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative’s Community Impact Program.
Nina O’Brien, disaster resilience and recovery lead for FRRR, said that the collaborative nature of the Community Impact Program means locals in each region have come together to identify and act on their communities’ drought preparedness priorities, at a grassroots level.
A BUSY construction site will become a fun-filled conversation hub tomorrow, as engineering company UGL Limited supports not only R U OK? Day, but also Wangaratta’s Project 365 initiative.
For a couple of hours on Thursday, the Glenrowan Solar Farm construction site will offer 200 staff the chance to enjoy activities such as mini-golf, handball competitions, guest speakers, catering and a coffee van, while also taking time to chat and ask that important question - “R U OK?”
Funds raised on the day will go to Project 365, and UGL construction manager Patrick McInerney said it was an easy decision to support both causes, considering the impact of mental health issues on the industry.
“Statistics for suicide are high in the construction industry,” he said.
“There are a lot of FIFO (fly-in/fly-out) workers, and people on 3/1 rosters; for
those who have young families, that can mean they’re not home as often as they’d like to be, but they’re away supporting their families.
“This will be a chance to show the fun side, create a positive vibe, and give people some time to talk and check in with each other.
“We’re going as all-out as we can to ensure we can raise some funds for Project 365.
“Whether it’s $5 or $100,000 we raise, we’re going to be proud of our efforts.
“I’m passionate about supporting this cause, and I’ll do whatever’s within my power to do that.”
The link with Project 365 came through site manager Matt Routledge’s knowledge of Peter Rourke’s work with the mental health awareness initiative and band U Can Cry, which has evolved from two concerts held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre last year, to a planned event at the Wangaratta Rodeo Grounds in November.
‘The Ripple Effect’ aims to again be a celebration of community, with the band of local musicians performing in a tent at the rodeo grounds, supported by other local entertainment, and a community market.
The event will run from 12.30pm to 10pm on Saturday, November 25.
Project 365 creator Pete Rourke said support such as that offered by UGL through its R U OK? activities would help the project become a long-term venture.
“Many of the companies who have pledged their support through UGL are from interstate, so that’s how far the reach has gone - it’s amazing,” he said.
If you would like to book your tickets for ‘The Ripple Effect’, visit https://events. humanitix.com/project365-the-ripple-effect
• If this media article causes you any distress, please phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
WANGARATTA-based Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines has ramped up efforts to see more federal funding spent on housing in regional Australia.
Dr Haines this week introduced her ‘Unlocking Regional Housing Bill’ which specifically seeks to address the housing crisis in regional, rural and remote Australia, by making funding easier to access and requiring at least 30 per cent of funding to go to regional, rural and remote Australia.
“Housing is the biggest issue facing people in my region, in major regional centres and in tiny towns,” she said.
“The government says it is working on housing, but their announcements don’t have any guaranteed dedicated funding for regional Australia.
“My Bill would amend the rules that decide how the government’s housing funding is spent, making it easier to access for regional councils to open up land and get more houses built so more people can get roofs over their heads.
“The message I have received loud and clear in my communities is we need government to step in and fund critical enabling infrastructure – the sewerage, the drainage, other amenities.
“It’s not sexy to talk about gutters and pipes, but I want to make it happen and that
is why I introduced this Bill.
“Almost one in three Australians live outside the major cities.
“The housing needs and demands of our regional communities are different.
“The lack of housing supply is a handbrake on our local economies, we can’t fill important jobs as there is nowhere for people to live.
“This Bill proposes sensible measures to ensure we can act on the regional housing and homelessness crisis by building housing where it is needed most.”
Dr Haines said she has been listening to local housing providers, not for profit organisations and local government to understand the problems and solutions for increasing housing supply in regional areas.
She has also met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Housing Julie Collins on multiple occasions to make the case for dedicated funding for housing in regional Australia.
“After speaking with the Prime Minister and working with the Minister for Housing on this issue, the government announced $500 million to fund enabling infrastructure,” Dr Haines said.
“That amount of money will not stretch very far and not a cent of it is guaranteed to be spent in regional Australia.”
Dr Haines moved a series of amendments to the
government’s Housing Australia Future Fund Bill in February.
“I have brought this issue to the attention of the Prime Minister and the Housing Minister, I have sought to work constructively,” she said.
“But it’s clear their Bill is stuck in a stalemate, and I am not willing to wait.
“That is why I have developed this Bill because I want action on real ways to
improve housing in regional and rural Australia.”
The $1 billion National Housing Infrastructure Facility (NHIF) was established in 2018 to provide loans, grants and equity to fund new housing infrastructure and upgrades to existing housing infrastructure. Administered by the NHFIC, NHIF has not delivered an equitable distribution of funding for regional Australia, with
almost all the funding being used to deliver housing infrastructure in urban areas.
The Bill introduced by Dr Haines would ensure equitable distribution of funding and address the findings of a 2021 Statutory Review of the NHFIC Act which found NHIF has been difficult to access, was poorly understood, and had a complicated and lengthy application process.
HELEN Haines’ Bill would amend the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) Act to:
• require the Minister to consider what action needs to be taken so that 30pc of the National Housing Infrastructure Facility’s annual funding goes towards regional, rural and remote Australia;
• make the funding application process easier to access for local governments;
• require NHFIC to be more proactive in helping community housing providers through the application process; and
• require NHFIC to have at least one board member with regional housing expertise.
THE Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is backing a proposal to see regional, rural and remote Australia assured an equitable distribution of the Federal Government’s $10 billion housing fund, and local governments better supported in new development projects.
RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said rental availability in many regional towns was at, or below one per cent.
“A lack of housing is at the centre of the region’s record workforce shortages, in which demand is most acute for GPs, nurses, aged care workers and early childhood educators,” Ms Ritchie said.
What the Bill seeks to deliverTIME TO CHAT: UGL construction manager Patrick McInerney and site manager Matt Routledge are looking forward to tomorrow’s R U OK? Day event at the Glenrowan Solar Farm site, which will raise funds for Project 365 as well as awareness of mental health.
A “GRASSROOTS discussion” about the upcoming referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament is set to be held at Wangaratta’s CWA Hall later this month.
The Templeton Street venue will play host to both sides of the debate on Tuesday, September 26 from
UP to 30 witnesses could be called to give evidence against a man alleged to have quoted and received more than $120,000 from victims in the North East for concreting jobs which were not commenced or completed.
Police charged the accused, who is in his late-40s, earlier this year, amid reports he allegedly quoted jobs and took payment but did not complete works in Wangaratta, Benalla, Shepparton and Wodonga between July 2022 and January this year.
Defence lawyer Will Hart on Thursday said his client was likely to contest the allegations at a later hearing, and would also be applying for bail in the interim.
The accused faces some 15 charges of obtain property by deception.
Mr Hart said as many as 30 witnesses would be canvassed, a number of whom would be sought to give evidence by the defence at a committal hearing.
An adjournment of up to six weeks was initially sought by Mr Hart, in order to obtain a referral to an Odyssey House treatment centre to assist the accused’s case for bail, however, crown prosecutor Rebekah Fleming noted the matter had failed to progress on each of its last four appearances before the court.
Ms Fleming said bail considerations should not delay the progression of the matter, a sentiment Magistrate Ian Watkins agreed with.
However, with committal proceedings only being heard once a month in Wangaratta, Mr Watkins said he was obliged to adjourn the matter for four weeks, but noted the charges would need to progress on the return date.
The matter will return to court on October 12.
7pm, with attendees encouraged to enter with an “open mind and a sense of mutual goodwill”, according to host Father Peter MacLeod-Miller of St Matthew’s Anglican Church.
Fr MacLeod-Miller said the event was slated as a “civilised time of listening and examining information
to inform our choices” ahead of the October 14 vote.
“We start from the premise that all people in Australia are seeking the best outcomes for Indigenous and all Australians to acknowledge the truth telling that is needed on both sides and that we need to
EMERGENCY service crews are continuing their search for a North East man missing since last week.
Hayden, 40, was last seen in the vicinity of Lakeside Drive, Chesney Vale on the evening of September 7.
He is known to frequent the Lake Mokoan and Winton Wetland areas.
Police have called for public assistance to help locate Hayden, amid concerns for his welfare due to medical conditions.
An SES spokesperson said 10 volunteers from Wangaratta, Yarrawonga, Benalla and Chiltern units were undertaking a search and rescue operation at Winton Wetlands in an effort to locate Hayden yesterday.
Hayden is Aboriginal, has short dark hair and is reported as being 184cms tall.
He was last seen barefoot and wearing dark clothing.
“Hayden is known to
MISSING: 40-year-old Chesney Vale man Hayden has not been seen since last week.
frequent the Lake Mokoan Caravan Park and Winton Wetlands, Chesney Vale (areas),” a police spokesperson said.
“Police are urging the local community to keep an eye out for Hayden, particularly those who have outbuildings and sheds on farming properties.”
Investigators released an image of Hayden in the hope someone can provide information on his whereabouts.
AN Eldorado man has been immediately suspended from driving, after being intercepted above the legal limit of blood alcohol in the Wangaratta CBD late last week.
Senior Constable Lachlan Battisson of Wangaratta Police said officers had first identified the 40-year-old driving along Murphy Street on Friday, before eventually
intercepting him at Baker Street near Woolworths around 11.30am.
Snr Const Battisson did not confirm the blood alcohol level of the accused, but said the figure was above the .05 legal limit and worthy of an immediate suspension. He said the man would face Wangaratta Magistrates Court at a later date.
listen respectfully as one community,” he said.
“People who vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ are not motivated by racism, but there are no doubt racists on both sides that are making our lives more difficult.”
Fr MacLeod-Miller said the forum would focus “on the issues
confronting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and how we can all help”.
“Very few (voters) have attended both (yes and no) forums locally and I would encourage an open mind and a sense of mutual goodwill,” he said.
FLAMES completely engulfed a garden shed at an Avon Court property in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon, with firefighters attending to quickly bring the blaze under control.
According to an FRV spokesperson, crews were called to the scene around 1.40pm, identifying a rear garden shed ablaze.
“Two crews attended and used breathing apparatus as they worked to contain the fire, which engulfed the two metre by three metre garden shed,” the spokesperson said.
Nearby Franklin Street was closed by police as firefighters worked to bring the blaze under control within 20 minutes.
The fire was officially declared under control at 1.58pm.
A single ambulance crew also attended, however, a spokesperson said no emergency treatment or transport was required.
‘ARE you okay?’ is such a simple question, but one which can make the world of difference for those navigating a silent battle.
The growth of R U OK? Day in recent years has been remarkable to observe, promoting open and honest conversations among a male demographic which has long been stereotyped as closed-off and unemotional.
Local initiatives such as Project 365 have also led the way in breaking down barriers in the North East, and it’s pleasing to see those same programs becoming the financial beneficiaries of other R U OK? Day festivities in the region.
With Project 365’s upcoming event ‘The Ripple Effect’ to be held at Wangaratta Rodeo Grounds later this year, it’s important the conversations around mental health awareness aren’t limited to a singular day each year.
Council will also host a local morning tea tomorrow to build social connectedness among the community, and promote lending people an ear as they get life’s problems off their chest.
Simply making yourself available for the conversation is such an important part of mental health awareness, rather than proposing to hold all the answers to another’s troubles.
By attending these sorts of events, locals can show their willingness to engage in challenging, but potentially life-saving discussions, and further fuel a movement which has gathered so much steam in recent memory.
So on Thursday, make the effort to ask a friend how they’re doing, and take the initiative to show your support for a valuable cause.
The more that mentality can extend into everyday life, the better.
1 Which city was selected to host the 2022
Commonwealth Games?
4 Who painted the 1910 painting, Portrait of DanielHenry Kahnweiler?
(a) La Brea
(b) Young Sheldon
(c) Home And Away
9 What is the largest island of Spain by size?
(a) Birmingham
(b) London (c) Leeds (d) Manchester
2 Who directed the 1974 cult-classic movie, Young Frankenstein?
(a) Christopher Guest
(b) Woody Allen
(c) Terry Gilliam
(d) Mel Brooks
3 Haricot beans are also known by what name?
(a) Claude Monet
(b) Pablo Picasso
(c) Henri Matisse
(d) Gustav Klimt
5 Which of the following countries has a coastline on the Kara Sea?
(d) CSI: Miami
7 Who scored the most tries in the 2021 NRL season?
(a) Alex Johnston
(b) Kyle Feldt
(c) Stephen Crichton
(a) Tenerife
(b) Majorca
(c) Ibiza
(d) Menorca
(a) Lima beans
(b) Azuki beans (c) Navy beans (d) Fava beans
(a) Croatia
(b) Italy (c) Japan (d) Russia
6 Eve Harris, Ty Coleman, and Marybeth Hill are three of the main characters in which TV series?
TEACHERS and educators frequently get robust feedback about the life skills we are failing to teach our students.
I can, however, comprehensively reassure you that we always teach our students that ‘if they don’t know’ that they should find the information they need - we would never say “if you don’t know, just remain deliberately ignorant”.
We consistently teach children to fills gaps in their knowledge and understanding by seeking out more information.
We teach them to source that information from reliable sources.
We teach students to be curious and questioning learners.
Civics and Citizenship is taught - it’s an integral part of the curriculum.
If you didn’t know when the train was leaving, what time your doctor’s appointment was or whether you needed a pass to get into a ski resort, you’d find out - you know the details exist - it’s highly unlikely you’d say, “well I don’t know, so I won’t go.”
So, if you legitimately ‘don’t know’, for goodness sake get out there and find out, because ‘deliberate ignorance’ does not respect our democratic system of government.
Jacquie Walpole, Whorouly
DURING this year’s Dementia Action Week (18-24 September) we are encouraging people to learn more about the signs and symptoms of the condition and how to make their communities more accessible to people living with dementia.
There are estimated to be more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia and more than 1.5 million involved in their care - and those numbers are set to rise.
As dementia diagnoses increase, it’s important to learn more about the signs and symptoms and how to make our communities more accessible to people living with dementia.
That’s why this year’s theme for Dementia Action Week is ‘act now for a dementia-friendly future’.
Many people can continue to live well
(d) David Nofoaluma
8 How many prime numbers are there between 6 and 20?
10Which group of people were named Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 1975?
(a) American Women
(b) The American Peace Corps
(a) 5
(b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 6
(c) The Generation Twenty-Five and Under
(d) African Americans
with dementia, but it’s important they feel supported in their community.
Greater awareness helps to create discussion and break down stigma or barriers that could stop people from seeking help.
Increasing our understanding of dementia can make a big difference to the lives of people around us who are impacted.
There are things we can all do to make our communities more dementia-friendly.
To find out how you can make a difference, please visit dementia.org.au.
Maree McCabe, Dementia Australia CEO and Bobby Redman, Dementia Australia Advisory Committee chair
THE Holy Trinity Cathedral has been the setting for many beautiful choral events over the decades and Sunday’s Three Choirs festival was yet another.
The voices, the orchestra, and the choir
leaders moulded a magnificent program which was jawdroppingly stunning.
Many thanks and congratulations to all involved.
The Cathedral is the home of the majestic Willis Organ, which has returned after recent restoration work.
It is sounding wonderful, and it is an exquisite pleasure to listen to it each time the Farmer’s Market is on.
Nancy Hupfield, Wangaratta
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THE Milawa Oxley Rotary Club is excited to announce their upcoming high tea fundraiser, which promises to be an afternoon of great conversations, delicious treats, and a shared commitment to making the world a better place.
The high tea fundraiser, scheduled for September 24, is not only an opportunity to indulge in connecting with the community, but also a chance to contribute to the global effort to eradicate polio.
The club has been a long-time supporter and fundraiser of many important causes both locally and internationally.
Excited for the event are high tea hosts and long-standing Rotarians Melissa Hebbard, Patti Bulluss, Amanda Campbell and Lesley Sanderson.
Ms Hebbard said the high tea fundraiser aims to raise funds to support vaccination programs, research, and initiatives aimed at eradicating polio.
“We are extremely thrilled to announce Melbourne based a cappella group ‘The Velvetones’ will be playing at our event,” she said.
“With accolades including National A cappella Champions and a reputation as Australia’s premier vocal ensemble, The Velvetones promise to add an unforget-
table musical addition to the afternoon.”
The high tea will start at 2pm at the Milawa Hall, at $30 per person.
Rotary International’s contributions have resulted in a reduction of polio cases by 99.9 percent since the inception of their first vaccination project in the Philippines in 1979.
To date, Rotary members have generously contributed more than $2.1 billion and dedicated countless volunteer hours to protect nearly three billion children across 122 countries from the devastating impact of polio.
Though polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the importance of sustained efforts to keep other countries polio-free cannot be understated, according to Rotary International.
The Milawa Oxley Rotary Club invites the community to enjoy an afternoon not only steeped in tradition but also infused with the spirit of positive change and community.
Bookings are essential via: htps:// events.humanitix.com/rotary-club-ofmilawa-oxley-hightea-fundraiser, or email miliawaoxleyrotaryclub@gmail. com or phone Lesley on 0407 573 298.
THE Springhurst Community Hall is the place to go during an emergency event for locals and visitors to the town, as it will now be classified as a Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) following the endorsement by the Rural City of Wangaratta council recently.
One of the criteria for a NSP is it should provide protection to people from lethal levels of radiant heat through an appropriate separation distance between the bushfire hazard (vegetation) and the outer edge of the NSP.
Under the change, people will be able to include the location in their personal fire safety plans,
the new additional NSP will be live on the CFA website, and it will appear in online searches.
It will cost about $1600 for council to purchase the necessary directional and location signage of the facility.
North ward councillor Harvey Benton, who was unable to vote on the matter at the August council meeting as he’s a member of the hall committee, told the Wangaratta Chronicle they have been pushing for the venue to become a NSP for some time.
“It’s not just the locals who would require the area to seek refuge, but people driving along the Hume Freeway if a fire or any other emergency impacted
the area,” Cr Benton said.
“Once it’s declared an emergency by the state, people will now have somewhere to go and it’s a place of security for people away from the threat of bushfire.
“As a community we have always believed that the potential fire threat would be from the west and we have a major road, Federation Way, and this will protect the community.
“I believe the demography of the community is getting to a stage that people are not aware of what to do in an emergency situation.
“When I was brought up you had the resilience, but these days with all the rules and regulations people don’t get the opportunity...a lot
of the people out of the urban area having no idea about what to do.”
The process to have the location marked as an NSP began several years ago when the Springhurst Recreation and Community Hall committee of management endorsed the NSP proposal on July 30, 2018.
The Crown (Reserves) Act 1978 gazetted the Springhurst Hall as an NSP on December 16, 2021.
And at the Rural City of Wangaratta’s August ordinary council meeting, councillors agreed to endorse the venue.
Other NSPs include Eldorado Memorial Hall, Whitfield Recreation Reserve, Thoona Memorial Hall, and Tolmie Fire Station.
Key things to consider if sheltering at NSPs include:
• if an NSP becomes your last resort option, it is very important you wear protective clothing and take essentials such as drinking water, medication and mobile phone;
• ensure you are confident the travel path is open and safe at this time. Fire activity, thick smoke and ash can make it disorientating and difficult to see. Even well-known travel routes may be difficult to navigate in these conditions;
• you must continue to monitor conditions while you shelter at an NSP-BPLR by being aware of your surroundings and, if possible using a radio or mobile phone. Be aware that communications such as mobile phones and internet may be down during a fire; and
• you may need to actively defend your NSPBPLR against the effects of bushfire such as putting out spot fires from embers.
THE Rural City of Wangaratta invites all residents to join them in observing R U OK?Day, an annual event held every September 14, dedicated to supporting people to stay connected and have conversations that can help them through challenging times in their lives.
The key message is that social connectedness can assist people in crisis and is a whole of community responsibility.
The theme for this year is “I’m here to hear”; the message emphasising the importance of being there for loved ones and simply listening, remembering you don’t need to be a professional to have this crucial conversation.
As part of R U OK?Day, council will be hosting a
community morning tea to raise awareness and provide an opportunity for residents and friends to come together.
During this event, a speaker from the Grit and Resilience team will share valuable tips and methods to encourage and inspire you to ask your loved ones, “Are you okay?”
It will be held on Thursday, September 14 at 10.30am at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street with no need to register or RSVP.
Everyone is invited to come together for a cup of tea and engage in a meaningful conversation that could make a world of difference to someone in need.
Councillor Ash Fitzpatrick is keen to remind everyone of the importance of check-
ing in with their loved ones, especially during these challenging times when many are facing financial distress.
“In times of hardship, a simple question like ‘Are you okay?’ can provide comfort and support to someone who needs it most,” she said.
“Let’s be there for each other, listen, and show that we care.”
If you or someone you know needs help or support, please reach out to the following resources including Lifeline (lifeline.org.au), R U OK? (ruok.org.au), Beyond Blue (beyondblue.org.au), Suicide Prevention Australia (suicidepreventionaust.org) or the Black Dog Institute (blackdoginstitute.org.au) with more information about R U OK? Day at ruok.org.au.
OUR Lady’s Catholic parish held a high tea event on Thursday, inviting those from across the district to gather for a social afternoon.
• Denise Ritchens and Nellie Van Der Heyden.
ASHLEY Kalagian Blunt will be one of the featured writers at the Mount Beauty Writers Festival on October 7.
Currently living in Sydney and growing up in Canada, she has always had a keen interest in reading and writing.
She kept writing throughout her childhood and while studying in university.
Ms Kalagian Blunt decided to take writing seriously in her mid-20s when she began to write her first book, ‘My Name Is Revenge’, a novella and collection of essays about the Armenian genocide and its connections to Australia.
ERIN Schloss says it’s challenging playing an older, motherly-type character in the Wangaratta Players Youth Group (Youthies) production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.
“My character, Mrs Beaver, is very motherly and caring, she is a positive thinker and very hopeful and being that she is a lot more motherly than me, it has been a challenge,” Erin said.
Erin has been involved with Youthies for about 12 months and said she loves the drama games they play, spending time with her friends and working with (program directors) Bec and Lexi.
“Some of the best parts of Youthies, and the production itself, have been learning more about acting and the other behind the scenes things that go on.
The sentiment is echoed by fellow 12-month member Charlotte, who has taken on the role of Aslan the lion.
“I love everything about Youthies from the drama
games to the amazing teachers and the enthusiasm of the other students.”
Based on the classic story by C. S. Lewis, this performance of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe has been dramatised by Joseph Robinette for a younger audience and runs for approximately 80 minutes.
This version faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of the great lion Aslan; his struggle with the White Witch, and the adventures
of the four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting land of Narnia.
“Audiences are going to love the character of Aslan the best I think,” Erin said.
While Charlotte agreed, she hoped that audience members would be simply ‘transported to another world once they entered the foyer section of the Stage Door’.
“Aslan is a symbol of victory over evil, he is the kindest, most forgiving being in all of
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Narnia and is not an ordinary lion,” Charlotte added.
“He takes care of other animals and doesn’t hunt them.”
Charlotte said that she identifies with her character of Aslan on some level but he is not her entirely.
“Part of acting is that you find the parts of your character you can identify with and use that to help you play that role,” she explained.
“I do think it is good to play a character you don’t fully identify with because it gives you the opportunity to learn.”
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe will be held during the school holidays on Saturday, September 23 at 7pm and matinee performances on Sunday, September 24, Tuesday, September 26, Wednesday, September 27, Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30 at 2pm at the Stage Door at 4D Evans Street Wangaratta.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 15 years and under.
To book, visit https://www. trybooking.com/CLCTY.
The book took her nine years to publish as Ms Kalagian Blunt found the transition from being a reader to a writer.
“I did a lot of research, I interviewed 140 people across three continents to write that first book,” she said.
“But what I discovered was even though I was a passionate reader, I didn’t know how to actually write so, becoming a writer is a long process of learning the industry and how to put a story on the page.”
Since then, she has published two more books, ‘How to be Australian’, a memoir about her transition from living in Canada to living in Australia and her latest novel, ‘Dark Mode’, which was released this year.
Dark Mode explores the horrifying reality of the dark web as it follows Reagan Carsen, who has kept her life offline with no internet presence until she stumbles across a shocking murder where the victim looks just like her.
As there are more murders, Reagan is drawn out of hiding to confront her greatest fear of being found.
Ms Kalagian Blunt’s passion for writing thrillers comes from her interest in learning what drives people to commit crime, how
2 X FAMILY PASSES (4 TICKETS EACH)
crime is investigated and how it affects people’s lives and said she enjoyed writing Dark Mode.
“I really wanted to give readers a book that would hook them from the first page and pull them through the story at a fast pace,” she said.
“I love that feeling when a book has its own momentum, Dark Mode was a lot of fun to write.”
Ms Kalagian Blunt said she is looking forward to being a featured writer at the Mount Beauty Writers Festival as she knows of many of the featured authors and because of her love for small town writers festivals.
“Small town writers festivals are the best writers festivals, there’s just this lovely atmosphere and just a great vibe and I know some of the writers on the program, so I know its going to be an interesting day,” she said.
She is also looking forward to exploring regional Victoria while she is here.
“I’m very appreciative for the opportunity to come to a small town I might otherwise never get to and connect with readers,” she said.
“I’ve never been to that part of regional Victoria, so I am very excited.”
For more information on the Mount Beauty Writers Festival visit https://www. mountbeautywritersfestival. com/.
Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre
Tuesday 19 September 11am
For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au
BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics, drumming and more, the international smash hit returns!
LIVE MUSIC BY LOCALS promoting positive mental health twilight market & food stalls in a family friendly atmosphere. Gates open at 3pm!
Wangaratta rodeo grounds or ScanQRcode
A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation, 360 ALLSTARS connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus. Boasting a stellar cast of World Champion and World Record holding artists and athletes, 360 ALLSTARS is a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture. Add to this a stunning live soundtrack delivered by award winning musicians, coupled with spectacular video projections, 360 ALLSTARS is as aurally exciting as it is visually astounding. that has reinvented the circus, 360 ALLSTARS is a revolutionary production that will leave you dizzy with excitement!
your details and post or deliver to our
Wangaratta Chronicle 360 ALLSTARS competition 37 Rowan Street
Wangaratta VIC 3677
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Friday September 15
STUDENTS in grades three to six really enjoyed their three day camp at Alexandra Adventure Camp in August.
They participated in a range of exciting activities inducing rock climbing, giant swing, flying fox over a lake and the ever-so-thrilling high ropes course.
It was an opportunity for students to tackle their fears with the support of staff, parent helpers and their friends.
MAKING FRIENDS: Student Lachie Osborne caught up with resident Joyce Barry during their visit to St John’s Respect.
STUDENTS have been enjoying their weekly visits to St John’s Respect as part of the unique “buddy” program with residents. Accompanied by teacher Joseph Chatwin, the buddies have made friends, got to know each other and taken part in activities including singing and dancing, art projects, STEAM activities and trivia sessions. There has been lots of laughter and fun along the way; with both generations learning and gaining a better understanding of each other from the experience.
GO TEAM: Students, staff and parents cheered on competitors from the sidelines during Athletics Day.
YEAR eight outdoor education students enjoyed a three-day hiking experience through the snow at Mount Stirling as part of their Snowshoe Camp.
The trip involved a six kilometre hike on the first day, with snowshoes required along the way, before arriving at a cabin and campsite where tents were set up and dinner was made. The next night was spent in a rotunda where everyone warmed up around a fire.
Students had fun in the snow during the camp, including enjoying a snowball fight and building a snowman, also taking the opportunity to explore the beautiful alpine environment.
WINTER TREK: Year eight outdoor education students Claire Letica, Ella Montgomery, Aniston Holt and Lilly Noble were well equipped for the Snowshoe three-day hike.
1Which melts at a higher temperature: lead or copper?
2On a weather map, do isobars connect points of equal temperature, atmospheric pressure or wind speed?
STUDENTS in grades three to six made the most of the sunshine as they took the track at Appin Park Oval during their annual Athletics Day celebration. There was great camaraderie shown by spectators during the event, as everyone encouraged each other to do their very best in a variety of athletics disciplines.
CREATIVE COSTUMES: Best friends Lucas Doig and Logan Fraser represented Diary of a Wimpy Kid best friends, Greg and Rowley.
STUDENTS embraced Book Week this year, enjoying a stroll in the morning sunshine, sharing favourite characters, and bringing books alive.
Students and staff showed a lot of imagination as they brought to life characters from their favourite books for the book parade.
Along with sporting characters, princesses, fairy tale and Minecraft characters. Marvel personalities, well organised families created papier mâché and box constructions, which added to the variety of characters present for the parade in front of the school community.
3How many faces does a triangular pyramid have?
4In what year were the Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria?
5How many legs does a retro slider have?
For more CSIRO Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or call 02 6276 6643. QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. Copper has a higher melting point than lead. 2. Isobars connect points of equal atmospheric pressure on a weather map. 3. A triangular pyramid has four faces – three sides and one on the bottom. 4. The Black Saturday bushfires occurred in 2009. 5. A retro slider is a species of lizard with only two legs.
THE Resilience Project is tackling children’s mental health with a high-energy kids show tour across Victoria this September, arriving at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, September 21.
Through music, storytelling and plenty of laughs, The Resilience Project’s most engaging and entertaining presenter, Martin Heppell, will teach children aged five to 12 and their parents “3 Happy Tricks” - and it couldn’t come at a more crucial time.
New research has revealed that one in four primary students are experiencing
symptoms of depression an almost one in three are experiencing symptoms of anxiety.
“Kids have so many different challenges to navigate in today’s world and combine this with the difficulties of the last couple of years, it’s no wonder we are seeing such confronting statistics about our children’s mental health,” said Hugh van Cuylenburg, The Resilience Project’s founder and bestselling author.
“Martin is unbelievable, there is no-one like him - I couldn’t think of anyone better to help kids and their parents understand how much
THE Wangaratta Repair Café will have a pop-up stall at the Wangaratta Sunday Market at Moore Than Swimming in Mason Street on Sunday, September, 17 from 8am to 1pm.
The off-grid trailer will be set up with volunteers and fixing tools on hand to “give it a go” in an attempt to fix repairable items and keep them out of landfill.
The team can fix textile items, sharpen tools, look at electronic problems and whatever else people bring along (but not 240V electrical items) with more information on the Facebook page.
ALBURY Wodonga Theatre Company will present its production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Albury Entertainment Centre from October 20 to 22.
Take a journey “Under the Sea” to the enchanting world of Ariel, a spirited young mermaid with dreams as big as the ocean itself. With a cast of unforgettable characters by her side, Ariel’s story unfolds in a breath-taking spectacle which will transport you to a world of wonder.
Tickets are available now at alburyentertainmentcentre.com.au with discounts for families and groups.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A little “wool gathering” for the usually productive Lamb is all right if it helps you unwind. But be careful, as too much daydreaming can put you behind schedule in your work.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A work problem is close to being resolved. Now you can go ahead and celebrate the week, accepting invitations from friends who enjoy your company.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Getting your new plan accepted won’t be a major hassle if you have the facts to back it up. Your supporters are also prepared to help you make your case. Good luck.
fun they can have looking after their mental health.”
More than one million Australians have heard Hugh’s message of practicing gratitude, empathy and mindfulness (affectionately known as GEM) through his two books, chart-topping podcast The Imperfects, and thousands of talks across Australia - including schools, workplaces, sporting clubs.
These shows are a great opportunity for families across the state to learn how to incorporate GEM into their daily routine and help children improve their wellbeing.
REGISTER now for a range of fun activities being held for kids during the school holidays at the Wangaratta Library.
There will be the opportunity make colourful wind chimes on Wednesday, September 20 from 10.30am to 11.30am, or to create sand art masterpieces on Friday, September 22 from 10.30 am to 11.30am.
An origami session will be held on Monday, September 25 from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, or enjoy magic, with Winni Wizard to host an energetic, high energy show on Wednesday, September 27 from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.
Programs are designed for primary school ages and bookings are essential by calling 5721 2366 or email library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.
EXPERIENCE the true west coast sound of the Eagles live on stage when five members of The Eagles Story play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, October 28.
Complete with amazing harmonies, memorable melody lines and the incredible guitar duels that became trade mark for the band, Melbourne musicians Pete McCarthy, Gary Young, Paul Gales, Norm McNaughton and Steve Wells present hit after hit in a salute to the legendary band.
Tickets are available now at wpacc. com.au or from the box office.
A father of three, Martin Heppell is a former assistant principal and AFL player who has delivered more than 1000 presentations for The Resilience Project.
Having grown up in a tribe in Borneo in South East Asia, Martin’s boundless energy, incredible sense of humour, and compassion for people of all walks of life make him the perfect person to help kids work through difficult feelings and take steps towards better mental health.
The show will be held on Thursday, September 21 at 11am and tickets are available now at wpacc.com.au.
SEE BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics, drumming and more when the international smash hit 360 ALLSTARS comes to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on September 18 and 19.
A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation, 360 ALLSTARS connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus featuring a cast of world champion and world record holding artists and athletes.
Delivered with a live soundtrack and coupled with spectacular video projections, book tickets now for this visual feast at wpacc.com.au, with workshops also being held in conjunction with the show.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Dealing with a pesky job problem might be time-consuming, but necessary. The sooner you get this situation settled, the sooner you can move on to other matters.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Career advancement is favored, thanks to your impressive work record. On a more personal side, you should soon hear some good news about an ailing family member.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) There might be mixed signals from a certain someone who doesn’t seem all that certain about his or her intentions. Best to sort it all out now before it becomes more confusing.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Get all the facts about that investment “opportunity” before you put as little as $1 into it. Hidden problems might arise that could prove to be costly.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)
Compromising on a matter you feel strongly about not only ends the impasse, but can be a win-win deal for all. Remember, Scorpios do well with change.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) With all the demands you currently have to deal with, accepting the help of family and friends could be the wisest course to take at this time.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Recent upsetting incidents might have left you with a big gap in your self-assurance. Refill it by spending time with those who know how worthy you really are.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A dispute about money needs to be resolved quickly before it festers into something more serious. Consider asking an impartial colleague to mediate the matter.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A soft approach could be more effective than making a loud demand for the information you need. You might even find yourself with more data than you expected.
FOLLOWING a break over winter, the Moyhu Community Market will make its return for spring this Saturday from 8am until 12pm at the Moyhu Lions Park.
An antiques and collectables display will be open with members of the community encouraged to bring along their own items and add them to the display.
There will also be a wide variety of stalls to browse, delicious food including egg and bacon rolls and freshly brewed coffee.
THE Pangerang mobile community hub will visit Cheshunt on Friday to delivery art classes for children from 4.30pm and adults from 6.30pm.
Whether you are a beginner or more experienced, come along and learn the art of drawing using a number of materials and techniques including pastels, with all material supplied.
Bookings are essential at https:// www.socialplanet. com.au/activity/ view?id=15813, visit Pangerang Community Hub on Facebook, or call 5721 3813.
THE next meeting of the King Valley Residents Association will be held tonight from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve.
All are welcome to have their say, including representatives of the many groups in the King Valley, with topics to be discussed including community action planning, emergency planning, the King River and more.
A COMMUNITY program which brought together students from Greta Valley Primary School with residents at St John’s Respect has been declared a success, with both parties reaping the benefits.
Children in grades three to six have been making weekly visits to the facility where they get to know a resident ‘buddy’ and engage in a variety of activities, as part of an initiative inspired by similar intergenerational experiments broadcast on the ABC.
They’ve had trivia days, dancing and singing, art projects and STEAM activities, each designed to be both cognitively and physically challenging for both generations.
Program coordinator, teacher Joseph Chatwin, said seeing the relationships develop between buddies has been wonderful to watch, with all looking forward to the next visit.
WANGARATTA Prostate Cancer Support Group meets at the North Eastern Hotel in Spearing Street today from 7pm to 8pm.
Members and prospective members are welcome to come along earlier at 6pm for dinner prior to the meeting.
Partners most welcome.
For more information, phone Bill on 0408 552 768, Neil on 0427 214 856 or Frank on 0448 313 506.
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host bingo today from 1.30pm at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street.
The club will hold indoor carpet bowls tomorrow (Thursday) from 12 noon; Golden Oldies bowls competition on Friday from 10am; cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
Next Wednesday, September 20, the club will host lunch at the Wangaratta Club from 12 noon.
THE newly-formed Oxley Garden Group will hold its first gathering on Thursday, September 14 from 10am at June Uebergang’s garden, 114 OxleyMeadow Creek Road, Oxley.
The group meets on the second Thursday of each month.
Bring along a cup, a chair, and a small plate to share; tea, coffee, etc provided.
Feel free to bring along cuttings, bulbs, etc to share, along with your
knowledge of how to get the best results for your garden.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.auHe said the children have developed social skills and some have had to learn how to initiate engaging conversation.
“The students have also had to learn how to teach their resident buddies new skills such as robotics or how to use an iPad,” he said.
“The best skills they have developed through this program are compassion and understanding for the residents.
“They have found ways to encourage each resident to do activities that they are not confident in completing.”
Mr Chatwin said they have also received positive feedback from residents and staff at St John’s, with residents asking questions; keen to make
For more information, contact June (text only) on 0497 860 785.
PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am.
Those who are able can also meet at the main entrance from 9.30am for a 30 minute river walk prior to coffee.
For more information, contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.
WANGARATTA Cake Decorators meet every third Saturday of the month at Galen College in Phillipson Street from 10.30am, with the next meeting scheduled for September 16.
Those attending the next meeting will make rice paper flowers with Johanne Holt from Queensland.
BYO lunch and mug, $15 for members, $20 non-members.
Phone Lee Johnson on 0419 513 735 for more information or to book.
SPRINGHURST Old Time Dance will be held on Saturday, September 16 at Springhurst Hall from 7.30pm to 11pm.
Music will be provided by Spring Rhythm, entry is $10 per person, and those attending are encouraged to bring a plate of supper to share.
For more information, phone 5726 5241.
THE Australian Plant Society (Wangaratta) will hold its next
gathering on Thursday, September 28 from 7pm at the Masonic Hall in Appin Street.
The main focus will be on the Grand Spring Flowers Display, so bring along flowers from your garden.
The following Sunday, October 1, will see the group enjoy waratahs, and many other beautiful plants, on a member’s property at Eurobin.
For details, phone 5725 7207. All welcome.
WANGARATTA Family History Society will host two events at the Wangaratta Library during Senior’s Month in October.
The first will be held on Thursday, October 5 from 10am, on using your computer and technology to research your ancestry, and the second, on Thursday, October 19 from 10am, will focus on troubleshooting with family tree software.
Although there is no cost, bookings are essential, and can be made by emailing wangfamhs@ gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.
WANGARATTA Table Tennis Association is hosting a new social daytime group at the Wangaratta Showgrounds pavilion on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon.
People of all ages, from beginners to more experienced players, are
sure their young friends will be coming back next week.
He said family members of the residents have also been enthusiastic with several reaching out to thank the school for bringing some excitement into the residents’ lives.
The current program was supported by a $1000 Rural City of Wangaratta Pitcher This! community grant, which helped cover costs, and the school hopes another may run again in the future.
In the meantime, while some of the relationships created may continue in the future, it’s hoped the young people have gained a greater understanding of the world around them.
“We’re hoping each of the students take away a greater empathy for other people in the community and an awareness for the elderly, finding ways to bring joy into their lives,” Mr Chatwin said.
encouraged to play singles and doubles in a relaxed, friendly environment, with coaching for beginners.
For more information, phone Maxine on 0403 209 857 or Julie on 0422 321 456.
THE Wangaratta Artists are under new management, and welcome budding artists to come along, and established artists to exhibit in the studio at Batchelor’s Green.
The group meets at the studio on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 noon.
For more information, phone Clare on 0419 365 149.
COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am. Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
Play begins at 8am.
New players welcome.
Morning tea provided – please bring your own cup.
For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.
All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
MOYHU Primary School will be bringing back the 80s at their end of term disco being held on Friday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
All school aged children are welcome and encouraged to dress in their best 80s gear and hit the dance floor, with a DJ and photo booth.
Supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, there will be finger food and cordial with entry by gold coin donation.
THE King Valley United Football and Netball Club will celebrate the end of the season with a Presentation Ball on Saturday night the Wangaratta Turf Club.
The event will start from 5pm, with Hannah Hogan performing live music throughout the evening, and tickets available at Trybooking.com or visit the club on Facebook.
WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street. New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.
GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.
The competition runs until 3.30pm–4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.
COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 12.30pm.
Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For further information, phone club president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.
ELDORADO Senior Citizens Club hosts indoor carpet bowls at the hall every Thursday from 12.45pm.
SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of the month for a relaxed day of sit, sew and chat, from 10am to 3pm at the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club, off the river end of College Street.
Contact Colleen on 0427 221 138.
• TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au
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Wangaratta City
Football Club
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Thursday, September 14, 7pm.
To be held at Wangaratta Club 4 Victoria Pde. Nominations for all positions invited. All members welcome. Enquiries and nominations to secretary@ wangarattacityfc.com.au
CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers, behavioural solutions, 0418 314 610.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs. Commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482.
Phone: 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
2015 Holden Cruze SRi-V, (1OK9GX), great first car, 1.6L turbo, auto. Top of the range including heated seats, Bluetooth, Sat.nav, 6 air bags. Registered to Nov. 2023. RW certificate. $10,600. Couple minor scrapes on passenge r side. Contact Brad 0488 095 109.
2020 Toyota Hilux (1SO2UL), 2.8L ute, diesel, 28,000km. $62,000. Phone Brian 0427 595 561.
BLACK Holden Cruze CDX 2010 (XWT095), 173,400klm. $3500 neg. Contact Andrew 0428 410 341.
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& CAMPERS
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FUNERAL DIRECTORS
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KOKODA Endure II Platinum, semi off-road, 18ft 6in, $50,000. Phone Brian 0427 595 561.
THE rules for the games of table tennis were first published in 1927 by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
There were several rule changes made after the 2000 Sydney Olympics, hoping to make table tennis a televised spectator sport.
These included increased ball size to slow down the game, and changing the point system from the 21 to 11 point system.
The idea was to make the game faster paced and more exciting.
New balls were introduced with a new poly material.
A British table tennis enthusiast discovered novelty celluloid balls on a trip to the United States in 1901.
This was the official material used in table tennis balls and was changed to plastic balls in 2014.
The first table tennis ball was actually a champagne cork.
In a rally, a plastic ball bounces higher than a celluloid ball and flies faster but is more difficult to produce spin than with a celluloid ball.
A Grade: Boralma Berkshire (John Maletta, Mark Comensoli, Kim Brown) def N.E. Agricultural & Industrial (Steve Picken, Marcus Angehrn, Tom Brown) six rubbers to two.
Singles matches won: J Maletta 1, M Comensoli 2, K Brown 1, T Brown 2. Both doubles matches were won by Boralma Berkshire to make it a decisive win and put Boralma into the grand final.
B Grade:
Somerset Communications (Andrew Higgins, Phil Fitzgerald) def Boralma Berkshire (Frank Harris, Peter Mulrooney) three rubbers to two. Singles matches won: A Higgins 1, P Fitzgerald 1, P Mulrooney 2. Andrew and Phil claimed the doubles decider progressing Somerset to the grand final.
C Grade: Blue Raven (Matt Curran, Jesse Hughes, Campbell Hobbs) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Dave Hudson, Peter Mullins,
Chloe Butterworth) six rubbers to five.
Singles matches won: M Curran 2, J Hughes 2, C Hobbs 2, D Hudson 3, both doubles matches won by NVC.
A very happy Blue Raven team made it into the final event of the season.
This season’s winter competition grand finalists are: A Grade: Plum Digital Hub (A Lindner, A Lindner, J Loughnan) vs Boralma Berkshire (J Maletta, M Comensoli, K Brown).
B Grade: Plum Digital Hub (K Kazenwadel, A Plum) vs Somerset Comms (A Higgins, P Fitzgerald).
C Grade: Plum Digital Hub (R Kanaskar, S Algar, P Hughes) vs Blue Raven (M Curran, C Hobbs, A Koop).
The table tennis pavilion will be open Wednesday at 6pm and finals play will commence at 7pm.
Juniors are welcome from 6pm to 7pm for coaching.
Enquiries: Tom (club president) 0429 809 927, John (juniors) 0400 182 553.
The ball started as a 38cm ball as standard till 2000 Olympics when it was replaced by a 40cm ball.
Celluloid was fast becoming an obsolete material, as Europe was running out of this material and was becoming expensive to make.
It was extremely flammable material and difficult to transport.
Plastic materials in their widespread use made it an easy transition from celluloid to plastic.
The only difference is plastic has more speed and less spin.
Our Keenagers group on Monday and Thursday mornings (8am to 10am) are probably not aware of all the finer intricacies behind table tennis history, it is just fun to pick up a bat and ball and have a hit, no pressure and go with the flow.
So if you’re interested, you’re very welcome just come down to the Wangaratta Showgrounds and have some fun.
NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”
Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.
One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.
Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.
Korumburra 1
(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 11, Maisy Moscrop 7, Lily Purss 6)
TOTAL Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
KORUMBURRA 8 10 0 13
BUSHRANGERS 2 5 9 11
U14
Girls at the North East Bushrangers end of season awards nightUNDER 17 PREMIERS - TIGERS
PHOTO: PAUL AND LAUREN McCULLY
Back row: Malachy Allan, Angus McClen, Will Simpson, Josh Knight, Drew Winter, Dave Simpson (coach), Simon McKay (assistant coach), Deacon Cleal, Will Carmody, Jack Preston, Sam Allan, Kayden McKelvie, Eden White. Middle row: Dane Fountain, Jock Correll, Zack Carroll, Jayden Whitehouse, Jake Wall, Ryan McKay, Lucas Alexander Front row: Harvey Dodgshun, Ben Hogan, Harry Mullane, Lucas Webb, Billy McClen, Hugh Carroll.
UNDER 12 PREMIERS - TIGERS
PHOTO: PAUL AND LAUREN McCULLY
UNDER 14 PREMIERS - KANGAROOS
PHOTO: JEFF ZEUSCHNER
Back row: Jack Crotty, Kade Jackson (VC), Henry Ackerly, George Everard, Andrew Edwards (Coach), Jamie Scheier, Billy Hiskins (C), Brady O’Keefe, Ollie Reynolds (VC), Lenny Harding, Eamon Mullins, Leigh Symons (Coach). Front row: Lachlan Downing, Tyler Hunter, Hudson Wallace, Dael Johnson, Oscar Edwards, Harry Chandler, Alasdair Brett, Mitchell Murphy, Archie O’Brien, Archie Symons, Jack McCarthy, Thomas Burke, Kieran White (missing from photo).
Back row: Spencer Murray, Sam Gibb, Claire Benton (trainer), Paige-Lee Dummett, Austin Whitehead, Luke O’Keefe (coach), Patrick Edwards, Lachie Farrington, Ollie Fisher, Thomas McCully, Russell Edwards (team manager), Zac Williamson, Michael Flanigan, Murphy Flanigan, Jez Ackroyd (runner). Front row: Josh Robinson, Quinn O’Keefe, Hugh Sharp, Logan Benton, Tom O’Keefe (team mascot), Harvey Togolo-Hill, Vaughn Godenzi, Blake Kantor, Kobe Ackroyd, Jobe Dummett, Jack Conroy, Eva Morris, Mia Simpson, Lewis Jones.
SUNDAY’S Wangaratta and District Junior Football League grand finals were a fantastic way to round out the junior footy season, with three cracking matches played in perfect conditions at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
The day kicked off with the under 12 decider between the Tigers and College, which saw a contested and low-scoring game
won by minor premiers Tigers, 3.2 (20) to 2.4.(16).
The under 14 match between Kangaroos and Centrals was nerve-wracking for fans of the blue and white, as the Roos squandered a 32 point lead at halftime to limp over the line 9.9 (63) to Centrals’ 9.6 (60).
Centrals’ co-captains Reid McNamara and Kaiden Wohlers were titanic in the second half,
finishing with six goals between them for the match, while Alasdair Brett (four goals) and Mitchell Murphy worked hard to get the Roos the flag.
The under 17 clash between Junior Magpies and Tigers rounded out the day’s fixtures, with the Tigers coming home strong with a 5.10 (40) to 2.6 (18) win.
The Tigers had the majority of the momentum for the day,
with the exception of the third term which only saw three minor scores recorded.
With her club taking home two of the three flags, Tigers secretary Kathy Dodgshun said everyone was over the moon.
“It was fantastic, it’s been a long time since we’ve been in the final,” she said.
“We came off last season, which was a really tough season for the
under 12s and 17s, so to come from last season to taking out two premierships this year was just fantastic for all the players, families and supporters.
“We saw lots of past Tigers come down and support the day and support us through the finals, it’s been lovely
“The weather was fantastic, we couldn’t have asked for better footy weather.”
BEST: KANGAROOS: Mitchell Murphy, Archie Symons, Oscar Edwards, Alasdair Brett, George Everard, Kade Jackson. CENTRALS: Dean Balfour, Reid McNamara, Kaiden Wohlers, Connor Ormond, Ryan Parsons, Henry Burke. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Alasdair Brett 4, Eamon Mullins 2, Billy Hiskins 1, Ollie Reynolds 1, Jamie Scheier 1. CENTRALS: Reid McNamara 4, Kaiden Wohlers 2, Dean Balfour 1, Aiden Castle 1, Ryan Parsons
BEST: TIGERS: Logan Benton, Blake Kantor, Mia Simpson, Hugh Sharp, Kobe Ackroyd, Murphy Flanigan. COLLEGE: Cooper Bowman, Tate Llewellyn, Charlie O’Brien, William Pickett, Luke O’Brien, Tom Hill.
GOALS: TIGERS: Kobe Ackroyd 1, Lachie Farrington 1, Austin Whitehead 1. COLLEGE: Zachary Tamme 1, Jack Tonkin 1.
BEN Brisbourne returned from the Wodonga Racecourse on Monday with a double.
Grey Whisper ($11.50) grabbed a smart 1.5L win in race six (BM64) with new acquisition Princess Nefertiti ($2.20) making it a double in the eighth (BM58) with her first win for the stable.
It caps off a solid weekend for Brisbourne which saw Nordic Pride finish second by a nose in race three at Rosehill on Saturday, Pachino ran third in race three’s benchmark 70 at Moonee Valley and Pure Platinum was also runner-up in the second at Gundagai on Sunday.
Brisbourne was pleased with the result.
“It was nice to finish off the day well after a few ordinary runs early on,” Brisbourne said.
“Both horses have been building towards a win so it was nice to tick them off.”
Grey Whisper returned to the winners’ circle more than 12 months later after picking up an injury last year that saw her sidelined for a lengthy period.
“It was 550 days between wins for Grey Whisper,” Brisbourne said.
“She picked up a nasty injury that took around 13 months to come good so it’s been great to see her back racing.
“She’s been a mare that we’ve had a bit of an opinion of so the natural progression from that 64 graded race would be to go to a (metropolitan) mid-weeker.”
Princess Nefertiti has been
knocking the door down in her first two starts for the Brisbourne camp finishing second on both occasions.
The galloper arrived from Ciaron Maher’s stable after five starts, one win and four placings..
“She’s been building towards this win,” Brisbourne said.
“She’s been super consistent in all of her starts (never unplaced) but had only won her maiden so it was good to see her win a handicap.
“She’s showing more ability
than a benchmark 58 so hopefully she’ll gain some confidence, get through the grades and maybe win a mid-week race.”
The five-year-old mare was purchased by Quatta Quatta Thoroughbreds for $11,000 before being sent to Brisbourne, a long way from her $200,000 yearling price tag at the 2020 Gold Coast Yearling Sale.
“She was sent to the breeding barn after being with Ciaron Maher but she didn’t get in foal,” Brisbourne said.
“She ended up on an online sale and a client of ours bought her with the view of racing on or breeding but she’s been showing enough to keep racing for another year or so.”
Brisbourne was stoked with Nordic Pride’s run at Rosehill (BM78).
“He’s a horse that runs on confidence,” he said.
“After a couple of kills (wins) at Wagga he acquitted himself well up in Sydney, we’re really proud of him.
“Hopefully he can knock off one of those races soon so we’re now working on where to go next.”
Unfortunately for the stable, Pachino tore a tendon in his third place finish at Moonee Valley (BM70).
“Pachino ran super but picked up an injury,” Brisbourne said.
“He’s torn a tendon so he’ll be out for 12 months which is unfortunate because he’s been going really well.”
EAGER cricketers have been given their first look at what the A grade Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season will look like for the 2023/24 season.
Revealed by the association on Monday afternoon, A grade teams will play a 14 round season, featuring seven one day matches and seven two-day fixtures.
A block of three one-day matches will get the season underway from Saturday, October 7, followed by three two-dayers, before two further one day matches will lead into the Christmas and New Year break, with the last day of play in 2023 set for December 16.
The season will resume
on Saturday, January 6 in 2024, with the last round before finals to be played across March 2 and March 9.
All eight of last year’s teams will again feature in A grade.
Round one sees Yarrawonga Mulwala host Wangaratta Magpies at Stan Hargreaves Oval, Benalla Bushrangers take on last year’s premiers Rovers United Bruck at Gardens Oval, Delatite play Beechworth Wanderers at Lords Reserve in Mansfield, at City Colts go up against Ovens Valley United at Bill O’Callaghan Oval.
Fixtures for the rest of the senior and junior competitions will be released in the coming weeks.
By WILLSON MACK
WANGARATTA A grade netballers have bowed out of the finals race in straight sets.
After falling to Lavington in the first final, the Magpies needed a win against Wodonga Raiders but that wasn’t to be in the 33-37 affair at Bunton Park.
Wangaratta slumped to a five goal deficit at the half-time break but fought back in the third to trail by just two goals going into the last term.
However, Raiders rallied to produce an 11-goal to nine final quarter to book themselves a spot in the preliminary final against Yarrawonga.
Wangaratta coach Lou Byrne was disappointed with the result.
“It’s very disappointing for not just the girls but everyone at the club,” Byrne said.
“Raiders came out hard at us and we didn’t respond the way we wanted to.
“I’m not sure if we went into the game a little bit down but our accountability wasn’t good and we definitely weren’t at our best.
“Raiders were defensively really strong which also made it hard for us as well.”
Raiders’ goal attack Emily Stewart fought hard all game shooting 15 goals, combining well with Mia Lavis (14 goals) and Taylor Donelan (8 goals).
Wangaratta’s Kellie Keen continued a strong patch of form providing a great option in the offensive end, while Issy Newton was prominent in the midcourt.
Byrne can’t help but feel that her side underachieved in season 2023.
“When you look at our team on paper I think it was one of
the best we’ve ever had so I definitely think we underachieved,” she said.
“The girls are all feeling pretty down and feel like they’ve let themselves down.
“We were beaten by the better team though and wiith the quality of the competition this year I feel like any of the top five teams can win on their day.”
Lavington are the first team to book a spot in the A grade grand final after a two-goal win over Yarrawonga on the weekend.
“The last couple of weeks are going to be very interesting,” Byrne said.
“Lavington are probably the team to beat I think.
“Raiders could put Yarrawonga out this weekend, they played hard and tough against us so you never know.”
Meanwhile, Wangaratta’s u17s got the job done against Wangaratta Rovers on Sunday.
The Magpies led at every break to score a comprehensive 62-39 victory at Bunton Park which sees them advance to Sunday’s preliminary final against Wodonga Raiders at Birallee Park.
For the Magpies, McKinleigh Lappin shot an impressive 35 goals, while Rose Henry was also excellent with 26 of her own.
Rovers’ star Kyia Wohlers led her side’s tally with 21.
Wangaratta’s B and C grade teams were also knocked out of finals.
The B grade went down to Wodonga by seven goals, while C grade lost to Myrtleford in extra time after the game was locked up at 37 apiece at the final whistle of regular time.
FINALS
■ From back page “We had some poor decision-making which resulted in turnovers, but our ability to hold strong and to apply enough defensive pressure to win the ball is pleasing going into a grand final.”
Tarrawingee coach Jackie Everitt said it was a disappointing way to bow out of a promising season.
“The girls played brilliantly, I thought it was a great game, I couldn’t be more proud of what they did and how they went about things, but it was very disappointing to lose by that one goal,” she said.
“We had the intensity all the way there, but we probably didn’t capitalise when we needed to capitalise, I think that was the biggest thing, and we let them back into the match.
“They came back at us, we thought we were there competing against it – it was just that one goal we couldn’t peg back.
“A couple of things didn’t go our way, and it was just hard to fight back from that even though the girls put all their effort in.”
Milawa will face old foes and reigning premiers Greta in Saturday’s decider.
In other preliminary final results, Bonnie Doon (B grade), Milawa (B reserve), and Greta (C grade, 15 and under) all won through to the last match of the season.
Page 16
BROOK Pryse gets a pass away in Wangaratta’s 33-37 loss to Wodonga Raiders at Bunton Park on Sunday. Wodonga Raiders now face Yarrawonga in Sunday’s preliminary final at Birallee Park.
Story: Page 19
THE Ovens and King A grade appears to be stuck in a time loop, after Saturday’s preliminary final at Tarrawingee saw Milawa best the Bulldogs to book a match against Greta in the grand final, just like last year.
However, the scoreline was much closer this time around, with the Demons
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
only managing to get the job done by a single goal, 46-45.
The match was evenly contested early, with Milawa only up by a goal at quarter time, before the Bulldogs
started to create more turnovers in their defensive end, with Kaylee Allan making the Demons pay in the shooting ring.
Milawa fought their way back from a five goal deficit at half-time to have the scores even heading into the last quarter, with Micaela Larkings moving the ball seamlessly through the
midcourt and the Demons’ defensive end applying some great pressure.
As time ticked away, neither team could break out to a significant lead, with Milawa holding onto the lead as the final siren sounded.
Demons coach Kerrie Gray said her side took a while to get into the game, but fought
hard until the end.
“We didn’t settle very quickly, we had a good first quarter, it was evenly matched in the first quarter but we just couldn’t find our rhythm, to their (Tarrawingee’s) credit,” she said.
“We had patches where we played some really good netball and then we’d see-
saw back into struggletown a bit, struggling to move the ball freely.
“To the girls’ credit, I think we were seven down at one point in the third quarter and you’ve got to be proud of chipping that back, it’d be easy to lay down and have Tarra run over the top of us.
■ Continued page 19