MEMBER of the audience Amelia turns the barrel ahead of the ballot draw. Any attendee at the draw was invited to have a go. Incumbent Helen Haines’ assigned number ‘7’ was drawn out first by a blindfolded AEC employee. PHOTO: Steve Kelly
INDEPENDENT incumbent
federal MP Helen Haines has taken out the much sought a er number one spot on the Indi electorate ballot paper following a bingo style barrel draw on Friday.
Staged at The Centre on Wangaratta’s Chisholm Street, about 30 people showed up, with many wearing orange, to witness the o cial draw.
A number was drawn by a blindfolded AEC employee and allocated to each of the nine candidates appearing on a list in order of their nomination.
Under the Act the blindfolded person to draw out the balls has to be an employee of the Commonwealth, or a state, or an authority of the Commonwealth or a state.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
Then the balls were returned to the barrel and the rst number drawn was lucky number 7 which was previously assigned to Helen Haines (Ind).
The rest of the ballot order was:
2. Mitch Bridges (Labor), 3. James Trenery (Liberal), 4. Athol Thomas (One Nation), 5. Alysia Regan (The Greens), 6. Tim Quilty (Libertarian), 7. Michael White (Family First), 8. Ben Howman (Legalise Cannabis), 9. Mark McFarlane (Independent).
Dr Haines said a er the draw that she was very grateful to the AEC and the work they do to make it a public event with lots of people coming
down and seeing how democracy operates.
“It is literally the luck of the draw of where you go on the ballot paper, so number one, I wouldn’t have any complaints about that,” she quipped.
“The independent movement in Indi has been run on volunteers and there were lots of them turning up today.
“It was terri c to meet the other candidates in this important race and their families and friends who were supporting them.
“We’ve got some important candidate forums coming up which is a real opportunity to have questions and answers with the general public.
“Then pre-poll starts and a lot of people in Indi do their voting in the
two weeks leading up to election day.”
Liberal candidate James Trenery attended the draw and said he was happy with number three, but noted there will be a percentage of people who vote from 1 to 9 down the ballot, but others who vote from 9 to 1.
“The latter is something I might be promoting,” he said with a chuckle.
“It’s going to come down to a lot more than the ballot draw and there are quite a few issues starting to rear their head now, which is good.”
The only other candidate to attend the draw was Independent Mark McFarlane, who nominated rst, however was assigned number nine on the ballot.
■ Continued page 3
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.
RILEY was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, 7 April at 11:02am and weighed 2.99kg (6lb 6oz). Bianca was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, 7 April at 11:05am and weighed 2.22kg (4lb 9oz). They are siblings of Matthew and Skylar and the children of Byrony Watson and Alan Scelly.
Jackson Mark Van Berlo April at 10:28am and weighed 2.5kg (5lb 6oz). Skye Francesca was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, 3 April at 10:30am and weighed 2.15kg (4lb 7oz). They are daughters of Emily and Beau Moriarty of Wangaratta.
JACKSON was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Tuesday, 25 March at 11.29am and weighed 4.17kg (9lb 2oz). He is the son of Rowie Van Berlo and Dylan Van Berlo of Peechelba.
BOORHAMAN will be alive with its traditional spirit of generosity this Good Friday, as the township hosts its annual fundraiser for the Royal Children’s Hospital appeal.
The Boorhaman Hotel and a team of dedicated committee members will host the April 18 event, with local volunteers working alongside the hotel’s owners to encourage residents and visitors to give to a cause which is close to the heart of all Victorians.
Emma McInnes, a member of the organising committee, said the Boorhaman Hotel Good Friday event last year raised $41,818.35 for the appeal, bringing the total amount raised by the Boorhaman community to $49,344.39 - an achievement which earned the community a Small Town Big Heart Award.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
She said organisers were aiming to make the day just as successful in 2025, with residents sure to jump on board, and many visitors enjoying the region over the Easter break also expected to sample local hospitality and support the event.
“It’s really taken o in the last couple of years as the Boorhaman community has built up again,” Emma said.
“It’s always been a great community and it’s going from strength to strength; the pub owners (Katie and Nick Batchelor) support the community, and we support them.
“There are so many young kids in the area and lots of people have used the Royal Children’s Hospital in one way or another, so there is plenty of work happening in the background community-wide to make the day a success.
“It’s a really good community feeling.”
Boorhaman’s Good Friday activities start early in the day, with local re trucks visiting homes and volunteers rattling tins, encouraging everyone to contribute to the cause.
The event at the hotel will begin at 2pm, with a major highlight again set to be the Ducky Drop fundraiser, where 200 rubber ducks will be dropped from a helicopter at 4pm.
Prizes are awarded for the duck that lands closest to the
pin, as well as for the duck that lands the furthest from it.
Other popular activities at the event include yabby races, ra es, lucky dips, and facepainting for the kids, ensuring fun for all ages.
In the evening, the auction will kick o at 5pm, led by local auctioneers who generously donate their time each year to direct the action from a truck trailer provided by a local family, making the event even more unique and communitydriven.
The auction will feature a wide range of goods and services generously donated by local businesses and individuals, with all proceeds going directly to the RCH.
For more information, contact the Boorhaman Hotel on 5726 9335.
THE Moyhu Bowling Club will have a major windfall if the Liberal party is elected to government in the 2025 Federal Election to the tune of $550,000.
Liberal candidate for Indi James Trenery made the party commitment to the club if the Liberal party wins o ce on 3 May.
He said the $550,000 investment will replace the club’s ageing synthetic turf with a high-quality surface that improves safety, longevity, and playability.
Mr Trenery heard about the club’s need for a new bowling green when he was at the Wangaratta Show last year and a member of the club told him about it.
“I said honestly I have 15 minutes between leaving here and my next event so I went out there and the committee came out and showed me,” he said.
“It’s so important that these clubs have community function areas and groups who look a er the town.
“If we get up and win, it will be great for the town and the people who are in it.
“The Moyhu Bowling Club has been a vital part of our community for 25 years.
“It’s more than just a place to play bowls – it’s a meeting place, a hub for friendships, and a space where people of all ages, especially our older community members, can stay active and socially engaged.
“This upgrade is about ensuring that the club remains a welcoming and accessible venue for everyone, safeguarding its future as a cornerstone of our town.”
Club president, Ian Ritchie, told the Wangaratta Chronicle members were surprised and excited when they were told about the funding amount.
It will cost at least $260,000 just for the green and with the le over funds they can look at renovations to the toilets, kitchen and clubrooms.
The weekend pennant team are fresh from winning the grand nal and the club has a midweek pennant, and over 60s.
Residents from Moyhu, Wangaratta and from the valley travel to play as they enjoy the small club, rural town atmosphere.
The club prides itself on its community focus running a number of highly successful community activities and hires out club facilities at cost.
They also run an annual Barefoot Bowling program over six weeks on a Friday evening attracting more than 50 participants from 16 local clubs each session.
“Our facilities have been gradually deteriorating over recent years and without outside nancial help it is inevitable that our green will be
Six candidates locked in for Indi forum Monday
By STEVE KELLY
SIX of the nine candidates for Indi have confirmed their attendance at Monday night’s election forum at North Wangaratta Football Netball Club rooms..
Helen Haines, James Trenery, Tim Quilty, Mark McFarlane, Mitch Bridges, and Michael White have confirmed their attendance with hosts, the Victorian Farmers Federation Wangaratta and district branch.
Each candidate will be given brief period at the beginning of the forum to introduce themselves and the issues they stand for.
All 2025 Federal Election related topics will be allowed via a Q&A session between audience members and candidates. Energy will be a key issue bound to be covered, and VFF state president Brett Hosking, who will moderate the forum, said it has been a topic on the VFF’s radar for some time.
“We’re hearing out of the Wangaratta area a lot of discussions around renewables and where they fit in with modern day farming, so that these projects are done in a way that complement agriculture rather than detract from it,” Mr Hosking told the Wangaratta Chronicle.
“From what I’m hearing that’s going to be a pretty important conversation and our members are really keen to hear from the candidates on that issue in particular.
“I would imagine that cost of living is impacting everyone, everywhere and we’d do pretty well if nobody mentions
“Part of that is the energy transition and what does our future look like and it feels like we’re being forced to choose between two distinct policies whether it’s nuclear or
“The average person is just saying they actually don’t mind but they want it to be efficient, be able to afford it, and they want it to work.
“From a farming point of view we want it to complement what we’re doing on the land.”
Wangaratta is the first cab off the rank for the VFF around the state and Mr Hosking urges everyone from the local community to come along.
He said the forum will have a farming, agriculture and small rural community flavour to it.
Mr Hosking said it was important there’s plenty of time for the audience to hear the answers of the forum so questions should be succinct.
“The people elected will be making decisions for the next few years and they may even be part of a government so it’s really important that the local community gets a look at who their representative is and ask ‘will this person achieve the best outcomes for our community’.
The forum will start at 7pm.
■ From page 1
Now candidates will be busy nalising their preference deals with fellow candidates ahead of the printing of the how to vote cards.
The elections has certainly had an injection of energy and this will continue on Monday night with the Victorian Farmers Federation Wangaratta and district branch election candidates forum.
The event will have VFF
state president Brett Hocking as the convenor and no relevant questions will be barred.
All candidates have been invited to attend the forum.
Early voting polling places open on Tuesday, 22 April with Wareena Park Hall the local venue.
Opening hours will include 22-24 April (8.30am-5.30pm), 26 April (9am-4pm), 28 April to 1 May (8.30-5.30pm), and 2 May (8.30am-6pm). Polling places on Election
Day voting, 3 May, will be open from 8am to 6pm. In the Rural City of Wangaratta they include: Fr James Byrne Memorial Hall, White Street; Purbrik Hall-Holy Trinity Cathedral; St Bernards Primary School Hall; Tarrawingee Community Hall; Glenrowan Primary School; Milawa Public Hall; Eldorado Memorial Hall; Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall; Springhurst Primary School; and Whorouly Library Hall.
VICTORIA’S peak CFA members lobby group has lashed out at the state government over its proposed rework of the re services levy as the fallout will be a he y tax on landholders.
The proposed Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) is marked to triple property taxes for primary producers, and double them for industrial, commercial and residential property owners.
The government’s bill passed the Legislative Assembly last month but failed to reach a vote from members in the Legislative Council until at least the next sitting date from 13 May.
Victorian Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) District 23 president and Wangaratta businessman, Garry Nash, said only a fraction of the money would come back to volunteers in the regions.
“It is really disgraceful and despicable that the state government plays rhetoric to re service and SES volunteers and tries to put a tax through under the guise of a volunteer fund,” Mr Nash said.
“The rhetoric is wonderful when we’re out there doing the job for saving assets, looking a er our communities and doing all those wonderful things… but that’s where it ends.
“We want to see some support, some physical support with looking a er our members, with replacing our 35-year-old tankers, replacing
re stations, and giving an opportunity for a diverse group of re ghters to be able to change.”
Mr Nash met with Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy last week and referred to a failure to vote on the new ESVF legislation in the upper house as “a major win” for regional communities, however, the matter will be brought back for debate on 13 May.
“The Allan Labor Government only knows how to do two things, and that’s spend money and tax Victorians,” Mr McCurdy said.
“This latest tax that they’re trying to get through the Parliament of Victoria is an absolute disgrace.
“It’s going to hurt regional communities - it’s going to hurt all Victorians, but regional communities are going to be hurt the most.”
“This is a tax on country Victoria to clean up Melbourne’s mess.
“CFA brigades, SES units, and Coast Guard volunteers are still holding ra es for basic gear, while Labor is funnelling billions into city bureaucracies that should already be funded.”
Mr McCurdy said Labor is refusing to reveal where the $2.1 billion would go and called for the government to scrap the tax completely and provide levy exemptions for emergency service volunteers.
“This was never about better funding for volunteers - it’s about propping up a budget black hole,” he said.
THE Rural City of Wangaratta has notified the Whitfield community about upcoming works to extend the shared walking and cycling trail from Whitty Lane to Gentle Annie Lane along Wangaratta-Whitfield Road in Whitfield.
A letter sent to residents and landowners on 9 April by council director community and
infrastructure Marcus Goonan said the works, scheduled to commence on Monday, 5 May, will be carried out by North East Civil Construction Pty Ltd.
The trail extension is the final section of a shared path developed as part of the township enhancement and revitalisation initiatives under the Prosecco Road Project.
The project was made possible through $4 million in funding received from the State Government’s Tourism Infrastructure Program, and included township enhancements in Cheshunt and Whitfield, a playground and visitor hub in Whitfield, and a gateway artwork in Oxley. After community consulta-
tion and discussions with landowners, council said this section of the trail will be constructed on the alignment of the former Wangaratta to Whitfield Railway line (western side of the road), crossing the road near Newton Lane, to ensure safety to trail users. It is expected to be completed by the end of June.
INCUMBENT Indi independent Helen Haines said she will ght for funding to help councils x potholes and repair damaged roads.
Dr Haines’ plan to reboot the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program would provide $500 million a year in untied grants to local councils.
She said a funding shortfall was contributing to the decline of regional roads and called on the Commonwealth to boost roads funding, which has dropped in recent decades.
“More than 75 per cent of Australia’s road network is owned or maintained by local governments, but regional areas struggle to fund the ongoing maintenance of local roads,” Dr Haines said.
“This is one of the biggest issues people talk to me about across Indi – as drivers we need to make sure our cars are roadworthy, and we need more funding to make sure our roads are carworthy.
“Federal Government support has declined as a proportion of government revenue, which means councils must compete for routine maintenance through competitive grant programs.
“Regional communities battle a number of hurdles in upkeeping local roads, including small ratepayer bases, increasing cost of repairs and materials, scarcity of workforce and limited funding opportunities.”
Since Dr Haines’ election, more than $155 million in roads funding has been allocated to roads across Indi.
Dr Haines’ proposal has been costed by the Parliamentary Budget O ce, which has calculated Indi would receive
an additional $36.3 million over four years, to be shared between the councils: Alpine Shire: $2.75 million; Indigo Shire: $4.36 million; Mans eld Shire: $2.44 million; Strathbogie Shire: $5.69 million, Wangaratta Rural City: $6.17 million.
“This funding would enable local government to undertake the day-to-day work of xing potholes and road erosion, while they plan for longer-term funding priorities,” Dr Haines said.
Dr Haines is also pushing for transparency and fairness in roads funding across the nation, recently signing up for the Australian Automobile Association’s My Safety Counts campaign, which calls for state governments to be required to provide safety ratings for individual sections of roads when applying for fed-
eral road funding.
Dr Haines said her policy would help improve the condition of regional roads across Indi and if she is re-elected she would push both major parties to adopt her policy.
Liberals candidate James Trenery said the policy was just another unfunded announcement from Dr Haines.
“This funding is not budgeted and is not real, it’s fake funding,” Mr Trenery said.
“Under Helen Haines, more roads funding has been pulled out of Indi than put in, the Rutherglen Heavy Vehicle Alternative Route funding and McKoy Street Overpass just to name two major projects, where since the funding has been pulled, there have been serious crashes which have resulted in serious injury and in one case, death.
“Our roads are crumbling
and are dangerous – it’s time for change to get the investment we deserve.”
Family First candidate Michael White said Family First wants to prioritise government spending to where it helps families most.
“We all know that road repairs in the North East happen at a glacial pace,” he said.
“Diversions can be dangerous and time consuming.
“We can’t just call for more money - that is too easy.
“We need to look at what government bureaucracy we can cut to give more to the services that matter. We need expenditure to go to the worker on the shovel or behind the digger.
“People from outside the bureaucratic swamp - I’m a selfemployed gardener - have the common sense to make sure our money is best spent.”
SNACK TIME: The council food systems survey aims to identify the community’s needs and priorities related to food access.
THE Rural City of Wangaratta is inviting community participation in a survey about local food systems to improve access to nutritious and a ordable food for all people in the municipality.
The survey can be accessed on Connect Wangaratta until 12 May.
The survey aims to identify the community’s needs and priorities related to food access.
Local food systems refer to the aspects of the food system that occur within a region, such as locally produced or processed food.
It also includes services, programs, initiatives or assets that impact how people interact with, access or consume food locally.
Examples include community gardens, community kitchens, farmers markets, food swaps, gardening groups or education programs.
Survey results will inform the development of an action plan by the Rural City of Wangaratta Sustainable Food Alliance to address local food issues.
Council have engaged Sustain: The Australian
Food Network and collaborated with health services, community groups, schools, and individual community members to form the Rural City of Wangaratta Sustainable Food Alliance, a group focused on understanding and addressing the challenges of our local food system.
Funded by the VicHealth Local Government Partnership program, this work is part of council’s commitment to achieving the module ‘Building Better Food Systems for Healthier Communities’.
“To address food security in our community, we rst need to understand the local food system,” Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant said.
“Before implementing any new programs, we need to assess current initiatives, their focus, and their e ectiveness in improving food security in our community.”
To participate in the survey go to Connect Wangaratta https://connect. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/. Paper copies are available on request from council customer service.
POLITICS is a prominent part of the lives of many people in Australian society and with only three weeks to go until the 3 May election there has certainly been a greater spotlight on the people looking to represent their constituents.
The Indi electorate has nine candidates to choose from, with several who have put their name forth before and others new to the arena.
A ballot draw was held on Friday to determine the order each candidate will be placed on the voting ballot paper.
This is always a pre-election highlight as candidates vie for that coveted number one spot.
With a candidates forum at the North Wangaratta Football Netball Club rooms from 7pm on Monday night, it’s a good time for people, who have not made up their mind on who they will vote for, to attend and ask candidates a question.
The majority of candidates will be attending and they will tell the audience what they stand for.
Hopefully they will also be able to explain how they will make life better for people living and/or operating businesses in Indi.
Measures to lower the cost of living through various policies will be central to achieving relief for taxpayers across the nation.
How will policy on energy supply shape the way forward for Australia will also be a question on people’s minds.
One thing that shines through is clear explanation about how Australia will progress into the future rather than regurgitated political dialogue.
1. Who is the man featured on the Australian one hundred-dollar note?
2. Which state is the easternmost state on mainland USA?
3. Which chef was the host of the TV series, The Chopping Block?
4. How many medals did Australia win at the 1896 Athens Olympics?
5. Which iconic Australian building was formally opened on 20 October 1973?
6. What is the office of the Pope called?
7. Which country shares Burundi’s northernmost border?
8. The arcade video game, Pong, was most popular during which decade?
9. What do you call a person who creates objects from iron or steel by forging the metal?
10. Which country is the largest country by area in South America?
11. 30 Odd Foot of Grunts was the rock band of which famous actor?
12. In which part of the human body are the ossicles located?
13. Who was the first African-American to play Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar?
14. How many different words are used in the book, Green Eggs and Ham?
15. As at May 2017, who is the Head of State of New Zealand?
16. What is the capital city of Cuba?
17. The Potato Eaters is one of the best-known works of which Post-Impressionist painter?
18. In 1958, who replaced Ian Craig as the Australian Test Cricket captain?
19. Which African country has coastlines on both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans?
20. John Travolta played the role of Edna Turnblad in which movie?
FACEBOOK users this week commented on local lawyer’s plea to see Noah Balta, attacker of his client, given a second chance.
• Lisa Delahunty Peach: Why???? The next person he does this to might not be so lucky!!!!
• Shez Mitchell: Whats that going to teach them? Don’t hit as hard next time?
• Georgina Rea: Does beg the question of why ? Sounds a tad dodgy Facebook users this week
commented on Labor’s $1 billion pledge for mental health services if reelected.
• Kim M Pond: Believe it when it’s seen! Facebook users this week commented on the Coalition’s announcement of $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund.
• Leslie Matthews: Is it on a spreadsheet?
• Tim Bright: Leslie Matthews colour coded by margin?
HOPING to become a member of a Dutton government this year, James Trenery has chosen the slogan “Time for change”.
Three out of the last four Prime Ministers were Liberal, so he might more aptly say “Time to regress”.
Of these Liberal PMs, the one Dutton resembles the most is Peter Abbott.
Abbott and Dutton both like to pose as the tough guy; both have glass jaws when it comes to journalists.
In fact Dutton has shirked serious questions from interviewers who aren’t working for his cheer squad.
Abbott was happy to subvert and undermine carbon emission reduction schemes, and Dutton’s doing the same with the aid of an immense nuclear red herring.
Most signi cantly, like Abbott, Dutton seeks to appeal to our fears, our prejudices and our resentments.
Migrants and visa-holders, some of whom wish you harm, are the cause of your problems.
Albanese, for his part, has at least tried to appeal to our better instincts, such as the Voice referendum.
He is just not very good at it.
We live in a Trumpian world of oligarchs spouting outrageous falsehoods.
In Australia, we have Gina Reinhard and Dutton is her candidate.
Culture warriors who would divide the nation for their own ends, who demonise sectors of our society, ought not to be rewarded.
Independents of the Haines type; those who aren’t ratbags, who are honest advocates resistant to the worst e orts of hardright zealots are one means to ameliorate the worst that Dutton can do.
Rob Watson, Myrrhee
THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling on the Victorian Government to immediately abandon its proposed expanded tax for emergency services and instead focus on urgently reforming the existing Fire Services Property Levy to ensure it is fair, transparent and sustainable for all Victorians.
It comes a er widespread community backlash to the government’s new tax proposal, which would see families, farmers, and businesses slugged with massive bills, without any guarantee of improved ser-
• Wangaratta lawyer John Suta.
MESSAGES FROM THE PAST: Greg Vonarx shows Kay Iskov his amazing collection of WWI postcards sent home by his grandfather, as they prepare for this evening’s gathering at the Wangaratta North CFA Brigade Fire Station. The event will feature the unveiling of the WWI honour board from North Wangaratta State School, which has been relocated to the Wangaratta North CFA Brigade by RSL Victoria. The board will be unveiled by Thelma Adair, the daughter of Stan Grossman, who is named on the board. Other descendants of local people named on the board will also attend, including Mr Vonarx, whose grandfather Frank Vonarx attended the North Wangaratta State School. Today’s event will begin at 7pm at the fire station at 350 Carraragarmungee Estate Road, Byawatha. Descendants are invited to bring along some memorabilia and share family stories over supper following the unveiling. For more information or to RSVP, contact Craig Iskov on 0428 737 788.
vices.
Victorians are already doing their fair share and this latest tax grab is unjusti ed and deeply out of touch.
Farmers don’t support it, re ghters don’t, nor do businesses and local governments.
Instead of piling on a new tax, the government should be xing the broken levy system we already have.
The VFF is urging the government to commit to meaningful reform, including:
• A cap on levy increases: Introduce a legislated cap so the Fire Services Property Levy cannot increase by more than the consumer price index year-on-year, similar to the rate cap applied to local councils.
• Protection against levy shock: Implement an individual capping mechanism to prevent property owners from facing levy spikes due to extreme land value revaluations.
• Fairer classi cation and rate setting: Conduct a full review of current land use classi cations and rate structures to ensure they are equitable, particularly considering di ering service levels between metropolitan and regional communities.
• Implement the rebate for CFA volun-
teers: The government should keep its plan to provide a levy rebate to CFA volunteers to the existing re services levy.
Our CFA volunteers, so many of them being farmers, are disproportionately giving of their time and their funds to serve the community.
It is only right that we look at providing a rebate against their re services levy bill.
Scrapping this expanded tax and committing to genuine levy reform would be a win for transparency, equity and trust.
Brett Hosking, VFF president
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 Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
A PRODUCTION of John Misto’s The Show Horn Sonata presented by local theatre troupe Limelight Touring Company, will open a month of diverse and high quality professional performances at the Benalla Art Gallery spanning April and May.
The gallery said it is dedicated to providing a meeting point for community and artists alike, with this series of performance events an opportunity to welcome new and old audiences to the gallery.
It says this series showcases some of the region’s local talent, whilst providing access to performances from artists with national and international significance.
The Shoe Horn Sonata is being presented on April 25 (Anzac Day) at 2.30pm to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War 2 and is proudly supported by Veteran’s Remembers and State Government Victoria.
The play is a story of friendship, survival, enduring hope and sadness, as two women reunite and share their stories as war camp survivors.
Limelight Touring Company is an independent theatre company based in Yarrawonga and Wangaratta with a focus on shining the limelight on local talent and women in theatre, and this production of The Shoe Horn Sonata does just that. The next weekend features Vince Jones, who needs little introduction to
music lovers and jazz enthusiasts.
Renowned for the beauty of his voice and the eloquence of his trumpet playing, an evening with Vince on May 4 is set to be a night of musical indulgence, seductive memories and emotions.
Celebrating 50 years in the business, the maverick artist has left an indelible mark on the Australian music landscape and the Benalla Art Gallery said it is a rare opportunity to welcome an artist as prolific as Vince Jones.
Tickets are on sale now and seats will go fast.
To complete the series of truly diverse performances is internationally acclaimed string ensemble, Affinity Quartet.
With a deep commitment to the string quartet genre, Affinity Quartet brings their lauded chamber music series to Benalla Art Gallery on 18 May, with special guest Aidan Filshie from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Renowned both at home and abroad for their captivating playing, Affinity’s artistry is synonymous with excellence in chamber music.
Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said it is a very exciting month for the gallery.
“Our spaces will be brought to life with performances by an array of special guests who will stimulate the senses and soothe the soul,” he said.
Tickets are on sale now at benallartgallery.com.au.
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
THE first week of April in Victoria and NSW has been slightly cooler than normal with little or no rain except at Mt Baw Baw which had nearly 20mms with snowfalls on 5 April.
In Wangaratta, 1.7 degrees was recorded early on Sunday, 6 April, which is our coldest minimum for early April since 1.3 degrees in 1998.
On the same morning Benalla had a minimum of 1.5 degrees - the coldest for early April since 0.2 degrees in 1995; and Rutherglen had 0.6 degrees, which was the coldest for early April since 2015.
Further north into NSW, Young recorded minus 1.5 degrees, its coldest morning for early April since minus 2.1 degrees in 1997.
Coonabarabran recorded 3.8 degrees on Sunday, 6 April, the coldest for early April since 2.8 degrees in 2003 after which very heavy rain and thunderstorms arrived a week later.
The low minimum temperatures recorded at major centres in North East Victoria all saw heavy rain later in April and again during May and June.
Birdsville, which had a very dry January and February this year, has been inundated with floods with 139.6mms in March and a further 48mms during early April.
There was a very similar rainfall pattern in 1926, with no rain in both January and February and then 92mms in March and 48.7mms in early April of 1926.
Monday, 13 April, 2015
The records show we had significant rain from about 21 March, 1926 right through to August 1926, with the winter being milder than normal.
By STEVE KELLY
WANGARATTA Farmers’ Market is going from strength to strength with more than 30 stall holders showcasing goods from the region on Saturday.
Set among the gum trees at the picturesque Apex Park, hundreds of shoppers mark it in their diaries every month to snap up some bargain produce, which is grown and made within a 100km radius of Wangaratta.
Market committee member Glenn Morrison said the local market is winning favour over some of the other markets of its kind.
“People have a preference to try and get to this one now because of the quality, the feel and diversity that we’ve got here,” he said.
“It’s also nice to know that producers want to come and they’re contacting us wanting to set up stalls.”
Only six markets have been held to date but it has the scope to grow more.
The committee still contacts the producers each month to manage what types of products
will be on sale so there is a diverse range for buyers.
It’s based on the Willunga Farmers’ Market in South Australia which has been very successful in the past by making sure there is not too much of any one product.
An example of a local producer is the Northey family from Myrrhee who operate Myrrhee Premium Boer Goats.
Connie Northey and her two children Alice and Ben were offering tastings of their products from their 450 goat farm.
They have four flavours of sausages and hamburger mince as well.
Capretto, a milk-fed goat, is their main type of stock and they also sell to restaurants and cafes.
“Goat meat is the most widely eaten meat in the world, but it is still yet to take on in Australia,” she said.
Adelaide has had its third driest October to March in 185 years of records with 64mms of rainfall.
The two drier October to March periods were 46mms in 1897-98 , and 54.7mms in 1915-16.
Three other very dry such periods were in 1885-86, 1925-26 and 1988-89.
We certainly copped a very wet winter out of all these episodes.
ACROSS
1 What is worn around the neck (6)
7 Name the male wedding partners (8)
8 Name another term for a weasel (6)
9 To be hard-hearted, is to be what (8)
10 What term means opinions, principles or doctrines (6)
11 When something roars, it does what (8)
14 Which term describes that which is made up of what is selected from diverse sources (8)
18 What are mothers’ brothers (6)
19 What might we call a skilled manager (8)
21 Name another word for a boarder (6)
22 To injure or disfigure, is to do what (8)
23 To be respectable, is to be what (6)
DOWN
1 What is an animal, as distinct from a human being (8)
2 To linger idly, is to do what (6)
3 What is a variable electrical resistor (8)
5 What is detestation also known as (6)
6 Who helps run a newspaper (6)
12 To not be in ringlets, is to be what (8)
13 Name an extinct Indic language (8)
17 To be sour or bitter, is to be what (6)
20 Which word is an abbreviation of an examination (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 PERTINACIOUS
(a) Obstinate (b) Impertinent
(c) Clear-sighted
2 TRATTORIA
(a) Turkish manna
(b) An Italian restaurant
4 To be second-hand, is to be what (4)
15 Which official is appointed to a sovereign state (6)
Letters have a number value
16 What is a cure-all (6)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
(c) An earthy volcanic tuff used as a hydraulic cement
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:
Cartoon exclamation: fear (3)
Colourful garden annuals (7)
Common small lizard (5)
Contraction: had not (5)
Formula: lithium hydride (3)
Latin: veins (5)
Looping river course (7)
Seeps out (5)
Vapour Extraction System (3)
Was seated (3)
VETERANS from the Wangaratta area gathered for their monthly morning tea at the Wangaratta RSL on Tuesday. In the lead-up to ANZAC Day, veterans were invited
to bring along mementoes from their service days. The event is held on the second Tuesday of each month from 10am to 11.30am, with the next function set for May 13.
All current and ex-service personnel and families are welcome to attend, and further information or transport details can be obtained by phoning 0447 217 768.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2025
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Tuesday, April 15, 2025
THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Wednesday, April 16, 2025
GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 2025 NO PAPER
EASTER MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2025 NO PAPER
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2025
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Please note our office will be closed GOOD FRIDAY and EASTER MONDAY and will re-open as usual Tuesday, April 22 at 9am
Wishing all our advertisers and readers a safe Easter Break
BATHROOM renovations, carpentry and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Kitchens available before Christmas. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
JAYCO Journey 19 pop top caravan, excellent condition inside and out, reg AUG 25, island seating, double bed, separate toilet and shower, oven, 3 phase fridge, tv, extras added, $34,990. Ph 0419 591 422.
GALAXY Odyssey Special Edition 2011 16ft 6 poptop, a beautiful van packed with features, including: fold-up a-frame chassis, single axle, queen size pillow top island bed, slim line venetians, colour TV with Wynguard aerial, rear camera with audio, water filter, $27,500. Ph 0407 053 349.
BayHunter runabout, 4.4 metre aluminium V-hull, 90s model, with canopy and side window panels, trailer and 40HP Mercury engine, life jackets, reg to Sep 25, $11,000 ono. Ph 0419 870 472.
STACER 3.62m aluminium boat, fully carpeted, all safety gear, bucket seats, nav. lights, large esky, electric bilge pump, Lowrance sh finder, Mercury 15 hp, EFI electic start outboard motor on electric trim and tilt, easy ow boat trailer, $6500 rm. Ph 0418 872 389.
RICHMOND ’S pubs 1842-1990’s map, 99 pubs/hotels listed, open to offers. Ph 03 5721 3948.
REQUIRE Gardener to prune 12 standard roses, located Wangaratta. Phone John 0428 574 287.
URGENT sale 2018
Retreat Fraser 210C caravan, 21 ft van with semi offroad suspension, has travelled approximately 40,000kms and only been bitumen, many extras and extremely clean van, $72,000 negotiable. Call 0427 597 618 for more details.
OLD pub mirror, 50+ years, Coca-Cola and Southern Comfort wording on mirror, open to offers. Ph 03 5721 3948.
Award winning newspaper publisher, North East Media, has a vacancy for an apprentice printer to work at our state-of-the-art press facility in Wangaratta, where the Wangaratta Chronicle and more than 20 other regional newspapers are printed.
The successful applicant will be committed to completing the four years of training,during which they will be taught all facets of newspaper printing. Applicants must be self motivated, reliable and be able to work in a close team environment.
This is a full-time position of 38 hours per week, but some flexibility will be required.
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment with a long standing publisher, we would encourage you to forward your covering letter and CV (including three referees) to:
Danny Fogarty, Print Manager, North East Media 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677 dfogarty@nemedia.com.au
All applications are regarded as private and confidential. Award wages apply.
MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST
Part-time position: 4 days per week (Mon-Thurs) plus rotational Sundays.
Please contact Teresa McMahon for further information or to apply. (03) 9989 4717 teresamcmahon.negp@gmail.com
STUDENT SERVICES AND ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Part-time (FTE 0.6, hrs neg).
Location: Wangaratta
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• An individual who is dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic about creating opportunities for regional and remote students.
• Strong collaborative skills with ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders and work within a team.
Good public speaker, presenter, and ability to coordinate activities and events.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent organisation and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media knowledge.
Email degrees@cucovensmurray.edu.au or Call 0490 022 028 to request a copy of the Position Description.
Applications close Friday, May 9 at 5pm.
CONSTABLE, Howard. Passed away April 8, 2025.
Loved brother and brother-in-law of Malcolm (dec) and Heather.
Loved Uncle of Evan and Emma, Megan and Chock and their families. Our thoughts go out to Sheree, Sharna, Travis, Taryn and their families. Lots of fun and laughs over the years of our family get togethers. Gone but not forgotten.
FITZGERALD, Allan William.
16/4/1962 - 9/4/2025 (Late of Wangaratta)
Passed away at Royal Melbourne Hospital after a brave battle Aged 62 years.
Loved and loving husband of Gen. Much loved and treasured father and father-in-law of Allan, John, Michael, Emily and Myles.
Loved and adored Poppy to Sadie, Skyler and Zeke. Special friend of Jen.
“Forever loved by us all”
In memory of FITZGERALD, Allan.
Allan was a long-standing and respected trainer of the Wangaratta Turf Club. His dedication to the industry, his horses, and the people around him left a lasting impression, and he will be remembered with great fondness and admiration.
We extend our sincere condolences to Gen and the Fitzgerald family during this difficult time. Please know that our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with you as we collectively mourn the loss of a much-loved member of our club and community.
~ Wangaratta Turf Club & Committee of Management
GRAINGER (nee Carson), Merle Ellen.
Passed away at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Friday, April 11, 2025.
Loved wife of Wallace ‘Wal’ (dec). Much loved mother of Suzanne (dec), Lynn (dec), Ian and Glenn. Mother-in-law of Naomi. Precious Grandma to Knakita, Alexsia, Mikylle.
As per Merles’ wishes, a private cremation will take place.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FITZGERALD
Funeral prayers for
Mr Allan William Fitzgerald will be offered at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1A Ford Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 commencing at 11am.
A recording of the service will be available on the N J Todd website from 4pm on Wednesday. Private cremation.
N.J. TODD
Member AFDA BENALLA (03) 5762 2461 EUROA 1800 352 425
A funeral experience... not just a funeral service
Mason Park Funerals P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
Remember your loved one in a
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 owers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.
The bereaved family will be noti ed of your memorial gi according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.
To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact -
Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5310 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.
NORTH ALBURY 2.2 3.4 4.5 6.9.45 WANG ROVERS 3.3 5.5 8.7 10.100.71
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: J. Murphy 2, T. Broomhead 2, J. Penny 1, J. Minogue 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: N. Cooper 3, W. Christie 2, C. Thompson 2, S. Booth 1, L. McCartney 1, S. Cattapan 1.
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Jackson Weidemann, Jack Penny, Flynn Gardiner, Ben Rigoni.
WANGARATTA ROVERS: Kieren Parnell, Xavier Allison, Charlie Thompson, Samuel Cattapan, Lochie O’Brien, Brodie Paul.
WODONGA RAIDERS 2.0 4.2 5.3 7.6.48
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: M. Way 3, B. Hernan 2, E. Boxall 1, N. Bracher 1. MYRTLEFORD: T. Cappellari 3, J. East 3, B. Ricardi 3, L. Murphy-Dale 2, K. Agosta 2, R. Sharp 2, R. Bouker 1, M. Munro 1, D. Harrington 1. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: Alex Pocock, Indhi Kotzur, Will McCarty, Beau O’Neill, Sebastian Quirk, Angus Sinclair. MYRTLEFORD: Jaxon East, Thomas Cappellari, Nicholas Ferguson, Simon Curtis, Bowen Calogero, Matthew Munro.
A GRADE
Wodonga Raiders 65 def Myrtleford 48 North Albury 66 def Wangaratta Rovers 35 Albury 17 def by Yarrawonga 59 Lavington 48 drew with Wodonga 48 Wangaratta 42 def by Cor-Ruth 43
B GRADE
Albury 19 def by Yarrawonga 57; Lavington 45 def Wodonga 31; Wodonga Raiders 47 def Myrtleford 27; North Albury 42 drew with Wangaratta Rovers 42; Wangaratta 58 def Corowa Rutherglen 34. C GRADE Albury 18 def by Yarrawonga 72; North Albury 35 def by Wangaratta Rovers 45; Wodonga Raiders 28 def by Myrtleford 29; Lavington 37 def by Wodonga 40; Wangaratta 38 def Corowa Rutherglen 37. 17 & UNDER
Wodonga Raiders 51 def Myrtleford 34; Albury 28 def by Yarrawonga 48; North Albury 29 def by Wangaratta Rovers 70; Lavington 47 def Wodonga 30; Wangaratta 67 def Corowa Rutherglen 35 15 & UNDER North Albury 57 def Wangaratta Rovers 32; Lavington 31 def Wodonga 24; Wodonga Raiders 52 def Myrtleford 31; Albury 17 def by Yarrawonga 35; Wangaratta 58 def Corowa Rutherglen 34
Lavington 7.9 (51) def Wodonga 7.5 (47)
BEST: LAVINGTON: M. Plunkett, Z. Klemke, C. Hall, A. Russell, R. Costello, F. Scott. WODONGA: M. Hack, B. Parkin, J. Hymus, J. Hodgkin, J. Packer, M. Prenter.
Wod. Raiders 12.10 (82) def Myrtleford 6.8 (44)
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS B. Sheridan 4, A. Everett 2, N. Andrews 2, B. Wilson 1, H. Gray 1, R. Finnimore 1, B. Saunders 1. MYRTLEFORD T. Cooper 2, J. Hazeldine 1, L. Masin 1, W. Graham 1, N. Nannipieri 1, BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS A. Alatalo, A. Everett, R. Frazer, B. Sheridan, B. Wilson, C. McFarland. MYRTLEFORD H. Stripeikis, T. Cooper, J. Hazeldine, J. Novak, M. White, S. Colson. Wangaratta 9.13 (67) def Cor-Ruth 3.8 (26)
GOALS: WANGARATTA C. Kerwin 3, C. Petersen 3, J. Blake 2. Corowa
Rutherglen C. Duryea 1, J. Massey-chase 1, A. Wynne 1. BEST: WANGARATTA C. Donald, O. Boyle, C. Bott, C. Haring, J. Blake, C. Kerwin. COROWA RUTHERGLEN A. Coghill, t. longmire, J. Forge, C. Duryea, H. Hall, J. Lavis. Nth Albury 4.2 (26) def by Wang Rovers 17.20 (122)
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: T. Wiesner-Milham 3, H. Westmoreland 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Johnson 4, J. Correll 2, Z. O’Shannessy
2, J. Comensoli 2, C. Boman 1, C. Lugg 1, M. Semmens 1, T. Ford 1, E. Saunders 1, J. Wohlers 1, C. Maher 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Z. Graham, T. Wiesner-Milham, T. Frazer, W. Harrington, C. Spencer, C. O’Rourke. WANGARATTA ROVERS: M. Semmens, C. Boman, C. Johnson, E. Saunders, J. Wohlers, J. Allan.
Albury 10.8 (68) def Yarrawonga 5.7 (37)
GOALS: ALBURY: J. Carey 3, J. Whiting 2, L. Reid 2, T. Delahunty 1, B. Hilton 1, K. Piltz 1. YARRAWONGA: S. Trembath 2, M. Smith 1, I. Hutchison 1, B. Johnson 1.
ALBURY 3.2 7.5 10.8 13.12.90 YARRAWONGA 1.4 5.7 11.10
GOALS: ALBURY: R. Garthwaite 3, M. Walker 3, K. Heiner-Hennessy 2, F. Carroll 1, J. Gaynor 1, J. Pitt 1, J. Kelly 1, T. Quade 1. YARRAWONGA: L. Williams 5, N. Fothergill 3, M. McCabe 1, J. Urquhart 1, B. Coghill 1, W. Wheeler 1. BEST: ALBURY: Jake Gaynor, Ryan Garthwaite, Isaac Muller, Mat Walker, Kolby HeinerHennessy, Max Byrne. YARRAWONGA: Harrison Wheeler, Daniel Howe, Ben Coghill, William Wheeler, Leigh Williams, Cameron Wilson.
GOALS: WANGARATTA: Parker Heatley 4; Bradley Melville 3; Fraser Ellis 2; Alex Federico 1; Xavier Laverty 1 . COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Patrick Lavis 2; Kaelan Bradtke 1; Liam Mccarthy 1; Finn Osborne 1; Tyler Roos 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: Fraser Ellis, Tyler Norton, Parker Heatley, Alex Federico, Aidan Tilley, Bradley Melville. COROWA-RUTHERGLEN: Cody Schutt, Liam Mccarthy, Mitchell Scott, Riley Irvin, Jedd Longmire, Patrick Lavis.
GOALS: LAVINGTON: C. Sanson 2, T. Oosterhoff 2, E. Perryman 2, A. Swinnerton 2, J. Glanvill 1, M. Sheather 1, N. Newton 1. WODONGA: O. Willding 2, J. Cassidy 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: Alex Swinnerton, Jesse Hart, Nicholas Newton, Jack Driscoll, Jack Costello, Alex Bennett WODONGA: Reuben Bourke, Charlie Morrison, Matthew Soroczynski, Tom Miller, Tom O’Sullivan, Gabriel Crothers.
A. Dickins, M. Grinter, C. deOleveira, J. Eales, R. Mulquiney, B. Symes. North Albury 85 (53) Wangaratta Rovers 15 9 (99)
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: O. Bruce, C. McIntosh, A. Crelley, C. Summers, K. Duncan. WANGARATTA ROVERS: H. Nolan, O. Clelland, S. Nolan, S. Comensoli, J. Cook, R. Gorman. Lavington 18 12 (120) Wodonga 43 (27) BEST: LAVINGTON: A. Cook, J. Weidemann, P. Ryan, C. Robertson, L. Gaffney, J. Hockley. WODONGA: Z. Nugent, B. Russell, L. Nugent, J. Bradshaw, G. McKimmie, J. O’Neill. Wangaratta 10 8 (68) Corowa Rutherglen 12 3 (75)
BEST: WANGARATTA: O. Roberts, C. Newton, N. Sampson, P. Wright, H. Burgan, A. Simmonds. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: F. Parker, D. Clancy, H. Canning, T. Smith, J. Johnstone, B. Pirnag.
ROUND 2
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
WODONGA vs NTH ALBURY WANG ROVERS vs ALBURY
SATURDAY, APRIL 19 COROWA RUTHERGLEN vs WODONGA RAIDERS SUNDAY, APRIL 20 MYRTLEFORD vs LAVINGTON YARRAWONGA vs WANGARATTA
BONNIE DOON
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
Bonnie Doon 59 def Moyhu 43 Tarrawingee 45 def Milawa 43
Benalla All Blacks 36 def Nth Wangaratta 26
Bonnie Doon 59 def Moyhu 43
B GRADE: Bonnie Doon 50 def Moyhu 33; Tarrawingee 20 def by Milawa 29; Benalla 30 def by Nth Wangaratta 42; Bonnie Doon 50 def Moyhu 33
B RESERVE: Bonnie Doon 59 def Moyhu 32; Tarrawingee 26 def Milawa 23; Benalla 50 def Nth Wangaratta 19; Bonnie Doon 59 def Moyhu 32
C GRADE: Bonnie Doon 55 def Moyhu 35; Tarrawingee 11 def by Milawa 29 Benalla All Blacks 27 def Nth Wang 25; Bonnie Doon 55 def Moyhu 35
15 & U: Bonnie Doon 63 def Moyhu 15; Tarrawingee 37 def Milawa 22; Bonnie Doon 63 def Moyhu 15
No other scores available at time of print
FRI, APRIL 18
GRETA vs MOYHU
BONNIE DOON vs BENALLA ALL BLACKS
SAT, APRIL 19
BRIGHT vs TARRAWINGEE
KING VALLEY vs MILAWA
Goorambat, North Wangaratta, Whorouly - BYE
GOALS: BONNIE DOON: Joel Sanford 3; Joe Magro 2; Tim Berenyi 1; Joel Coombs 1; Charlie Houghton 1; Edward Ivill 1. MOYHU: David McDonald 2; Charlie Gibson 1; Harrison Grant 1; Jordan Hansted 1; George Hearn 1; Aaron Thrum 1; Darby West 1. BEST: BONNIE DOON: Peter Cairns, Joshua Smart, Joel Sanford, Zac Tanner, Thomas Snooks, Tim Berenyi. MOYHU: Jordan Hansted, Matthew Thrum, David McDonald, Bailey Zimmermann, Harry Verdon, Jaxon Osmotherlt. GOORAMBAT 3.0 4.2 5.4 6.7.43 GRETA 7.1 13.5 22.9 31.15.201
GOALS: GOORAMBAT: Rhys Goodley 2; Jamie Dunne 1; Duane Haebich 1; Matthew Ryan 1; Brayden Stepien 1. GRETA: Frazer Judd 13; Cody Crawford 9; James McClounan 2; Brodie Pearson 2; Joshua Bell 1; Lachie Kennett 1; Xavier Wales 1; Bradley Whinray 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: Kobe Black, Benjamin Reaburn, Jamie Dunne, Brayden Wapling, Charlie Briggs, Victor Butler. GRETA: Lachie Kennett, Frazer Judd, James McClounan, Bradley Whinray, Daniel Cassidy. WHOROULY
GOALS: WHOROULY: Matthew Robinson 5; Jon Pethybridge 2; Jessie Smith 2; Lachie Barbour 1; Daniel Boyle 1; Oliver Dixon 1; Glenn White 1; Cameron Wood 1; Edward. Woolford 1. KING VALLEY: Beau Wheeler 7; Jacob Finger 2; Tristan Mears 2; Sam Evans 1; Hayden Sims 1. BEST: WHOROULY: Jessie Smith, Matthew Robinson, Daniel Boyle, Edward Woolford, Cameron Wood, Corey Southern. KING VALLEY: Charlie Davies, Sam Evans, Scott Jansen, Jacob Finger, Beau Wheeler, Robbie Wood.
GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Michael Ryan 2; Dylan Sinclair 2; Sam Cox 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: Corey Smith 11; Baxter Lane-Gee 3; Ruari Adamo 2; Damien Bradley 2; Jhye Devine 2; Josh Nanson 1; Tyler Nanson 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Sam Cox, Campbell Drury, Flynn Weeks, Kieran Linke, Jesse Walker, Brady Linke. NORTH WANGARATTA: Corey Smith, Billy Raggett, Matthew Curtis, Coby Arbuckle, Kyle McQuade, Damien Bradley.
Ned
2;
By NATHAN DE VRIES
ROUND three of the 2025 Ovens and King competition saw massive margins and close clashes in the senior footy as the mercury soared.
Over at Goorambat, reigning premiers Greta absolutely mauled the Bats to the tune of 158 points.
A total of 31 goals were kicked for the Blues, with the final scoreboard making for brutal reading, 31.15 (201) to Goorambat’s 6.7 (43).
Blues forward Frazer Judd was immense inside forward 50, finishing with a haul of 13 goals for the day.
Judd’s partner in crime in front of the posts Cody Crawford kicked nine.
The Blues were in control for the entire match, but it was the third quarter when the damage was done.
From a 13.5 to 4.2 lead at the major break, Greta exploded, kicking nine majors to one to lead by 107 points ahead of the last term.
Kobe Black and Ben Reaburn fought hard for the Bats, but they couldn’t compete with Greta’s midfield dominant and execution up forward.
It was a closer contest down at Bonnie Doon where the Bombers only managed to take the win over Moyhu by less than two goals, 9.9 (63) to 8.4 (52).
The Hoppers led at each break, but couldn’t hold on in the final quarter.
Moyhu was up by 12 points heading into the fourth, but conditions had taken their toll on the young
Hoppers side and the Bombers piled on four unanswered goals to pinch the match.
Peter Cairns and Joel Sanford led the way for the triumphant Bombers, while Jordan Hansted, Bailey Zimmermann and Harry Verdon almost hauled their side over the line.
Elsewhere, Whorouly returned to the winners list with a comprehensive victory over King Valley.
The Lions took the win 15.17 (107) to the Roos’ 13.9 (87), but the margin could’ve been even greater if Whorouly was more efficient going inside their forward 50.
After a balanced first quarter, the Lions worked hard to structure up across the middle of the ground, not allowing any counterattack from the Valley.
Whorouly would kick three goals to two in the second term, but 10 behinds and missed shots kept the Roos in the match.
Despite this, the Lions ran out 20-point winners, with Jessie Smith and Matt Robinson among the best for Whorouly, and Charlie Davies and Sam Evans impactful for King Valley.
North Wangaratta picked up their first win for the season at Friendlies Oval, defeating the Panthers 22.22 (154) to 5.5 (35).
The Hawks were in control for the duration of the match, and co-coach Corey Smith was immense with a haul of 11 goals for the match earning him best on ground honours, while for Benalla All Blacks, Sam Cox and Kieran Linke were impressive.
■ From back page Milawa coach Matt Graham said while the result went their way, there was plenty to work on through the year.
“Our forward line efficiency hasn’t been our greatest weapon so far this season,” he said.
“We probably left six or seven goals on the board against Greta which in the end cost us the game, and on the weekend we probably did the same if not more.
“We’ve got a new group of players, a whole new midfield this season, so it’s about them learning how each other play and learning how we get the best out of them.
“It’s going to be a week by week process, but that midfield’s had about five hours of football together, so we’re looking forward to hopefully another few weeks of football and we should be hitting our straps by the middle of the season.
“It’s all a learning curve, and football’s a long season, so we’ve still got 15 games to go this season with hopefully another finals campaign.”
While the forwards were inconsistent, Graham said his backline stood tall and never gave a hint of weakness.
“It’s been a strength of ours,” he said.
“When I took over coaching a few years ago, it was build from the back first, and if we can, utilise our half back line as an attacking weapon.
“We’ve got another season where we’ve got the likes of Mick Batey, Josh Owen, Rick Petts who are all experienced footballers as well as being leaders and coaches in their own right in the past.
“It’s nice to have that foundation already built at the back there to allow everybody else to have the freedom to play their game of football.”
The Demons head up to Whitfield to take on King Valley this weekend.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IT was far from the onesided affair many had predicted, but Wangaratta still banked the points over a new-look Corowa Rutherglen outfit at the Showgrounds.
Under lights, the Magpies looked solid across the ground on their way to a 11.13 (79) to 6.12 (48) win.
The Roos squandered their early chances in front of goal, put under pressure by a strong Wangaratta defensive line.
Second-gamer Parker
Heatley opened the scoring for the Magpies after four minutes of gameplay, but it wasn’t until the second quarter where the game started to crack apart.
The ‘Pies dominated across half back and through the middle of the ground, allowing their forwards to hit the scoreboard in a major way.
A five goal second term saw the Magpies lead by 33 points heading into the long break, and Wangaratta were able to maintain this margin through the second half.
Coach Jason Heatley said
it was a strong performance against a largely changed opponent.
“‘Unknown’ is right, we tried to do as much homework as we possibly could, but they certainly presented some challenges,” he said.
“They didn’t hit the scoreboard early in the game, they had a fair portion of the play there but once we got our method working we were able to score which was nice, a bit of separation on the scoreboard.
“I thought we defended well all night - in fairness, their shots on goal were
high, but I think we were able to penetrate on the scoreboard from deeper inside the forward 50, that’s always an advantage.”
Parker Heatley led the scoring, finishing with four goals to his name, while Brad Melville (three) and Fraser Ellis (two) were the other multiple goal kickers.
“We were the same as them, towards the back half of the third quarter we were right on top, and we probably left three or four goals out where which probably could’ve iced the game,” coach Heatley said.
“The challenges of the dewy ball made it tough for anyone, and the closer you could impact at goal from, the more efficient we were.
“[Aiden] Tilley was exceptional across half back, [Brad] Melville was terrific around the footy, we had even spread with [Alex] Federico, [Fraser] Ellis was running as hard at the end of the game as he was at the start.
“We had a few really good competitors throughout the night, and for us, it’s about role playing.”
The Magpies head to Yarrawonga this weekend to
take on the Pigeons. In other matches, Wangaratta Rovers picked up their first win of the year in style, defeating North Albury 10.11 (71) to 6.9 (45). The Rovers improved as the match wore on, but errant kicking inside forward 50 meant the margin was not as substantial is it might’ve been.
Kieran Parnell and Xavier Allison were impressive, while Nathan Cooper (three goals), Will Christie and Charlie Thompson (two each) were strong up forward.
HANG TIME
JOSH Tweedale takes an absolute screamer under lights against Corowa Rutherglen.
■ Story page 15.
Milawa’s forwards fire as the Demons hand Tarrawingee a 96-point hiding in scorching weather
MILAWA proved they have one of the have one of the most damaging forward lines in the competition a er dispatching Tarrawingee by 96 points.
The Demons weren’t as clean inside their forward 50 as they could’ve been, but still overwhelmed the Bulldogs
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
19.19 (133) to 5.7 (37).
Milawa ran riot from the starting siren, kicking ve goals and seven behinds in the
rst quarter alone while holding Tarrawingee goalless.
Shots would y wide of the big sticks, but Milawa’s defensive pressure was elite, never allowing the ball to head into Tarrawingee’s forward half before mopping it up and sending it back the other way.
The Bulldogs would enter the rooms at half-time with just the four behinds, while the Demons sat at 9.14 (68).
The one-sided contest continued through the second half, and while the Bulldogs would nd their rst three goals through the third quar-
ter, they were too far behind to catch Milawa.
A six goal to two nal quarter put the result beyond any doubt.
New signing Cameron Chamberlain impressed for the Bulldogs, alongside established players Hugh Amery and Seth Coonan. For the Dees, Brandon Fitzpatrick and Braydon Kearns were dominant, while Brady Bartlett ( ve goals), Harry Allan and Joel Radovanovic (four each) were damaging up forward.
■ Continued page 14
