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FRIDAY, December 15, 2023

Council rejects 7-11 servo bid

Education tion & velopment Career Development

Fire emergency at Wangandary Page 3

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THE HEAVENS ERUPT: A storm cell which passed through the North East was clearly visible from North Wangaratta later on Wednesday evening. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

‘Eerie’ storm cell lashes rural city Emergency g y crews called to 30 jjobs as severe winds toppled pp trees,, hailstorms hit region g A SERIES of storm cells which swept through the rural city on Wednesday evening left a trail of destruction in their wake, and could see more trees fall in the coming weeks. Gusts of more than 90kph were recorded at Wangaratta Airport around 5pm, as heavy rain pummeled the region areas east of the Warby Range, while grass and tree fires at Tarrawingee, Dockers Plains and King Valley kept firefighters busy in trying conditions.

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

Isolated wind gusts of 135kph were recorded at Wangaratta North shortly after 7pm, as a second front brought torrential hail south through Wangaratta. Wangaratta SES unit controller Jess Zuber said Boorhaman, Wangaratta South and Glenrowan had borne the brunt of the storm front, while

Milawa, Tarrawingee and parts of the King Valley had also been heavily impacted. She said local SES members had responded to 28 requests for assistance related to downed trees on Wednesday night, many of which had concerned “stretches of multiple trees”. “The majority of these were over roads and railway lines – we did have a large number down on properties so impacting on sheds, fences and driveways, and I know there

are a lot of people in our area with similar circumstances this morning,” she said yesterday. “I think we’re going to be a little bit busy over the next few days – obviously with that heat and then that wind and rain, we’ve got a lot of trees now with the potential to fall or falling later post-storm. ■ Continued page 2 ■ Thousands of local homes powerless after storms - page 2 ■ Storms bring relief after hot, humid start to summer - page 10

CLEARING THE WAY: Arborists were hard at work across the rural city on Thursday morning, after a storm cell tore through the region and downed trees and powerlines throughout the region. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

TOGETHER WE BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY Our annual grants round is NOW OPEN. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for charitable organisations and projects. Applications close 26 th Februar y, 2024 . To apply or donate, please scan the QR code. 23 Baker St, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au |

THANK YOU to all our generous donors!

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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‘Eerie’ storm cell lashes rural city ■ From page 1

POWER STRIKE: Storms on Wednesday evening and wild weather earlier in the day disrupted power to thousands of homes in the Rural City of Wangaratta. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Power off at thousands of homes as storms hit By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN WEDNESDAY’S wild weather saw thousands of homes across the Rural City of Wangaratta without power. According to AusNet Services outage tracker more than 3000 houses were impacted from unplanned outages on Wednesday night across the rural city with heavy rain, hail and wind causing damage and fallen trees which impacted power lines. Areas most severely impacted were West Wangaratta and Wangandary and an outage at King Valley, leaving 1000 homes from Eldorado to Cheshunt without power.

Most homes had power restored throughout the late morning and early afternoon on Thursday, with close to 400 homes still without power as of Thursday, 2pm. AusNet reported that it expected power to be fully restored by Thursday evening. An AusNet spokesperson said a fallen tree on a high voltage line on Williams Road reported at 8:30pm on Wednesday night impacted 1200 homes alone. “We have two helicopters in the north today to make the patrols quicker; this patrolling is essential to ensure there are no fallen powerlines that may cause a fire when re-energised,”

the spokesperson said. “We have tree cutters enroute to make the site safe.” Northeast Health Wangaratta reported minimal impact from the outage, with backup generators switched on for clinical areas, theater and Illoura Residential Aged Care. Significant storm and lightning activity was the cause of an outage at around 12:20pm Wednesday afternoon which impacted close to 4000 homes in the rural city. AusNet had land crews and a helicopter patrolling and inspecting the network where the outage occurred near Boweya, with a bulk of those home restored by 4pm. Wednesday and all homes

restored power by 5:30pm. Customers can lodge a compensation claim for damaged property or food spoilage resulting from an unplanned power outage or power surge, depending on a range of factors. Outage claims can be completed via the AusNet link: https://www.ausnetservices.com. au/outages/claims. Customers may need to provide proof of loss or damage, including technical reports, photos, or receipts. For the most up to date information on restoration times visit: https://www.outagetracker.com.au/?incident=INCD113298-U.

“It was really bizarre – we were hit in so many areas from Yarrawonga Road to Shanley Street and Glenrowan – it’s really hard to pinpoint where (the storm) went or if it was just one of what they’re calling ‘micro-burst mini tornadoes.’” Eliza Green had one eye on the radar as she cared for horses at Shanley Street’s Kurrajong Park Equestrian Centre, before a storm unlike anything she had ever seen descended on the site. “It was sort of foggy and misty – it was really eerie when (the storm) came,” she said. “Then it just felt like it was a hurricane, there was stuff flying everywhere. “We’ve got a horse who’s just had surgery on his leg, and I was going to bring them into the stables, but I didn’t have time so I actually bunkered down in the shelters while it passed, and there were gum trees flying everywhere in the sky and I was getting pelted by rain – it wasn’t much fun at all. “I was in a mini tornado in Myrtleford many years ago and the sky went green, but it was more like it went white (on Wednesday) – it was really odd, it was very terrifying and the wind was just so strong.” Ms Zuber said with resources stretched across the region, some tree jobs had been passed on to local arborists, while council was charged with cleaning up roadways on Thursday morning. “We really want to applaud our community for their resilience, and particularly on our outskirt areas – so many farmers and so many locals came out to assist and help so the community spirit was really alive even though they were quite hairy conditions,” she said. “We are a group of volunteers from the local community – there are some jobs which are outside our scope unfortunately which we will have to refer to contractors, which can be frustrating and we acknowledge that, but we’re doing our best.” To stay up to date with local warnings, visit https://www. emergency.vic.gov.au/respond.

MAJOR CLEAN UP: Eliza Green said it felt like a hurricane had come through Kurrajong Park Equestrian Centre, with many trees felled. PHOTO: Libby Green YOUR LOCAL

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 3

No go for 7-Eleven servo Wangaratta g councillors vote 6-1 - against g p permit based on traffic,, environment and characterr PLANS to build a 7-Eleven service station at one of Wangaratta’s busiest intersections has been knocked back by Rural City of Wangaratta councillors, a decision that was welcomed with applause from the public. Councillors voted 6-1 to reject the permit for the 24hour, 7 day per week business to be established at the corner of Ryley and Perry streets following an alternative motion presented by Cr Irene Grant, in contrast to the previous recommendation by council officers to grant approval. Several residents against

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

the proposal attended the public gallery in the council chambers on Tuesday night following support of 62 submissions against the proposal. Cr Grant’s motion to refuse the permit weighs on the proposal’s lack of attention to nearby sensitive land uses, as it “would result in inappropriate built form and visual bulk that is inconsistent with the surrounding neighbourhood character,

particularly to Perry Street and Meldrum Street”. “The application does not represent compatible land use in proximity to an established residential area and has not provided a suitable design response that incorporates siting and setback objectives,” Cr Grant said. Traffic at the intersection was another major concern, as the motion cited its failure to “address the traffic safety risks associated with the existing road network and intersection of Ryley and Perry streets”. Cr Grant said the application has not demonstrated

that it will not have detrimental impacts on the environment, human health and the amenity of the area. An additional part to the motion was added just prior to the vote by Cr Jack Herry noting, “The application has not provided a suitable design response to ensure it does not detrimentally affect the amenity of the neighbourhood with particular affect to noise and vapour”. Both Mayor Dean Rees and Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton spoke mainly about the traffic issues and made reference to the problematic

crossover in the middle of Ryley Street for vehicles attempting to turn right from Perry Street or perform a southbound U-turn on Ryley Street. “This application doesn’t assess the traffic at an already dangerous intersection and a confusing one with U-turns permitted, access in and out of Perry Street, multiple directions, and trying to navigate across Ryley Street is just a nightmare and I’m surprised there haven’t been more accidents,” Cr Rees said. In reference to his view that the proposed location

was unsuitable, Cr Rees made note of a service station that was recently approved at 87-89 Tone Road, an application where council only had one or two objections compared to an eventual 62 with the one under review. Focus now turns to the likely application to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal by the applicants. “The applicants will take it to VCAT,” Cr Rees said. But even if proponents win approval of VCAT, Cr Rees said “council will fight that decision if it gets up”.

Greta Road fatal crash accused pleads guilty

TURN ON THE LIGHTS IT’S officially the time of year for the family of Shay-Lee Butler (left), Zoe Tatt, Crystal Lord and Isabella Butler to deck their Violet Court home in lights, inflatables and decorations as they invest in the family Christmas spirit. While not on the map of the Edge FM Christmas Lights Map, you can drive past the decorated home along with registered houses in the rural city via the map on pages 22 and 23 of today’s Chronicle. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

GUILTY pleas have been entered by a Wangaratta man charged with being behind the wheel during a crash which claimed the lives of his 16-year-old brother and 26-year-old cousin at Greta Road in Wangaratta earlier this year. The 23-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week, when he admitted to two counts of culpable driving causing death stemming from the April 9 crash, which immediately killed the 26-yearold and saw the accused’s brother hospitalised, before succumbing to his injuries six days later. Another cousin of the defendant, a 24-year-old Beaconsfield man, was hospitalised following the crash but later discharged. Defence counsel Amara Hughes said the charges had resolved and the matter would proceed to the County Court next year for a formal plea in the appropriate jurisdiction. Allegations the man returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.079 within three hours after the crash, and charges he travelled at speeds more than 45km above the 100km limit will also be transferred to the County Court. According to charge sheets, the accused is alleged to have reached 223kph in a 100kph zone between Pyles and Panes lanes on the same day, and had also allegedly reached 152kph in an 80kph zone on Clarkes Lane between Bodsworth Lane and Greta Road. The fatal crash is alleged to have occurred at around 7.15pm while the vehicle was travelling north near the Clarkes Lane intersection, with the vehicle said to have careened 160 metres into a paddock after crossing Greta Road’s centre line and clipping a tree. Magistrate Peter Dunn adjourned the matter to be heard before the Wangaratta County Court during a circuit commencing on July 26 next year. He extended the man’s bail, which requires the accused to surrender his passport, not leave Victoria unless for work, not to drink alcohol and not to drive a motor vehicle.

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

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ZERO TOLERANCE: Operation Roadwise will see police target North East holiday hotspots in an effort to curb drink driving behaviour over the Christmas and New Year period. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

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Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

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Police won’t take a merry approach on holiday roads LOCAL police are calling on residents to act responsibly when taking to the roads this festive season, as the high-risk Christmas period officially begins this week. Some 279 lives have already been lost on Victorian roads this year, surpassing the 241 lives cut short in crashes for all of 2022, and with low range drink driving readings (.05 to .069) increasing by four per cent on the typical monthly average, officers are urging residents not to risk driving alcohol-affected during the holiday season. Popular holiday hotspots across the North East will be targeted as part of police’s ‘Operation Roadwise’, an 18-day initiative which will extend into the New Year period to deter unsafe behaviours on roads across Victoria. The initiative officially commenced today, and will continue

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

until 11.59pm on January 1. As part of the operation, motorists are being urged to entirely separate drinking and driving, with the recent increase in low-level drink driving readings believed to suggest drivers are prepared to drink at end-of-year social functions before getting behind the wheel. ‘Low range’ drink driving offending carries a $577 fine and a six month driving ban for those under 26 years old, while those fully licenced and above 26 will be sidelined for three months. Road policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said those who choose to flout the road rules would be up for a costly Christmas, with penalties in the hundreds of dollars also

applicable for those speeding by more than 10kph, failing to wear a seatbelt, failing to obey traffic lights or using a mobile device while driving. “We’re urging everyone to make road safety a priority during the festive period – the last place you want to end up this Christmas is in a hospital, or worse, as a result of road trauma,” he said. “December is particularly highrisk on our roads – we tend to see an increase in social functions and events that increases the likelihood of impaired driving, as well as increased traffic as people head away to regional areas. “We will be focused heavily on impaired drivers, so expect to be tested, and be prepared to face the consequences if you’re caught over the limit – the penalties are significant, and we make no apologies for enforcing the rules – it could save someone’s life.

“It’s been a horror year on our roads and we will be doing all we can to stop this needless loss of life.” Wangaratta crime prevention officer, Leading Senior Constable Helen Parfett, said those attending Christmas parties in the region should make an effort to keep track of how much alcohol they consume, and never accept drinks you haven’t personally seen poured or opened. “Alcohol affects everybody so get to know your personal limits and stick to them,” she said. “Save yourself from regrets and remember that how much you drink is up to you. “Staying together and looking after one another is one of the best ways to stay safe – by looking out for each other and taking some simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable night out for you and your friends.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 5

Warby Range threatened in Wangandary blaze BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

A FIRE which threatened to spread into the Warby Range on Tuesday evening has come as a “wake up call” after ground and air forces were required to quell the blaze. More than 15 CFA tankers and multiple CFA-contracted helicopters were called to the grass and scrub fire on land between Wangandary Road and Sessions Road around 5pm, following a reported malfunction of an electric well pump in a nearby paddock. Forest Fire Management Victoria and Fire Rescue Victoria crews also attended. According to CFA District 23 commander Paul Scragg, the fire had threatened nearby houses and a number of sheds, before spotting up a nearby hill in the direction of the Warby Range. He said the fire had ignited in long, thick grass and travelled north west, before aerial assistance slowed the blaze’s progress towards Sessions Road. “It spotted up the hill, so once we saw that we diverted the helicopter off the paddock and onto the hill and that assisted in slowing it

LUCKY ESCAPE: The 10-acre fire threatened sheds and property in the Wangandary area, before spreading towards the Warby Ranges. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling down until the troops could get in there and put it out,” Mr Scragg said. “Because of the potential of that we did have more helicopters on the way but we cancelled them.” Approximately 10 acres of land was burnt before the fire was declared under control shortly after 6pm. All sheds and homes threatened by the fire were successfully protected. Firefighters remained on

scene blacking out the site into the night, and South Wangaratta members returned on Wednesday morning with thermal imaging cameras to ensure the fire was not smouldering underneath the rocky hill. Wangaratta South CFA incident controller Garry Nash said the fire had been a “wake-up call” to all residents in the Wangaratta region. Less than three kilome-

tres away from the fire as the crow flies, Wangandary resident Marcus Chick expressed his disappointment with mobile provider Telstra, after he was left unaware of ‘watch and act’ messaging issued by the CFA. He said Telstra had failed to address an ongoing mobile blackspot in the local area, which Mr Chick said had meant several of his neighbours had also been left oblivious to

the fire a short distance away. “The signal is so bad the message did not arrive until I plugged the phone into an antenna later in the evening,” Mr Chick said. “Both my computer and phone have the (VicEmergency) app, but you do not sit in front of the computer all day and the phones are useless without signal or being tethered to an antenna, which defeats the mobility

unless the antenna is on a hat. “The city-centric galahs that make these apps fail to consider that in order for them to work on a phone, that phone needs signal – here and in other rural areas that is the missing link.” Regional general manager for Telstra in Victoria, Jenny Gray, said Telstra did not have any current plans to install additional towers in the Wangandary area, and encouraged residents to use an external antenna or phone booster in their home or vehicles to improve connectivity if needed. “While Telstra generally has good 4G mobile coverage in and around Wangandary, we know there are a few small pockets where our coverage is limited or not available,” she said. “Mobile reception can be impacted by a range of factors such as the type of handset being used, distance from a tower, hills and valleys, tall trees and built infrastructure. “However, our infrastructure can also be impacted by disasters so keeping in touch via the radio or online news is also the best way to be aware of any impending danger and help keep you safe.”

Council backs local tourism events to generate $2.23m THREE events will share in $12,500 of Rural City of Wangaratta tourism funding per annum over the next three years and seven events will share in $17,500 to help with the staging of their events in 2024. According to council, all the events will value add an estimated economic value of $2.23m to the local economy. As part of council’s Events Sponsorship Program for 2024-2026, the Transmoto 8-Hour has secured $5000, La Dolce Vita was funded $5000 and King Valley Challenge was awarded $2500 - each year for the next three years.

This year’s Transmoto trailbike rally near Carboor attracted hundreds of particpants and saw $5200 donated to local suicide prevention initiatives; La Dolce Vita wine and food festival attracted thousands of visitors to King Valley wineries; and the King Valley Challenge saw more than 100 athletes compete in the run, ride and paddle endurance race around Lake William Hovell. Under the Tourism Events Program for 2024, events funded were All GM Day ($3000), King Valley Arts Show ($5000), Wangaratta Open Long Course Competition ($1000), Wangaratta Music Festival ($2000),

Dark Lake Origins ($2500), King River Sounds ($2000), Weekend Fit for a King ($2000). Grants were available up to $5000 for major and marquee events (events that attract over 500 visitors) and up to $2000 for minor events (events that attract less than 500 visitors). A council spokesperson said applications were assessed against the program criteria including the event’s ability to attract visitation to the region, their potential to develop into a key tourism or visitor attraction event in the foreseeable future, a marketing plan well researched and targeting

beyond the immediate municipality and other relevant criteria. This year the program had a few changes which include:  introduction of the threeyear sponsorship stream which is designed to assist longer standing events by providing essential funding while removing the administrative tasks of applying for this funding annually.  a greater emphasis on supporting new and upcoming events within the tourism grant stream; and  opening the funding program up to events occurring in a 12-month period.

RIKKIE-LEE

EYE CONTACT: Kingsley Morrison and Matt Kinsey appreciate one of the works at this year’s King Valley Art Show. The event secured $5000 from Rural City of Wangaratta for its 2024 exhibition.

TYRRELL

MLC

MEMBER FOR NORTHERN VICTORIA REGION

Together with my staff members Dani, Warren and Jason, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and safe and prosperous 2024. /RLTyrrellMLC

@Rikkie-LeeTyrrellMLC

RIKKIE-LEE TYRRELL MLC 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton Ph: (03) 4700 1787 rikkie-lee.tyrrell@parliament.vic.gov.au Authorised by Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MLC, 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 7

Green St detour map released Sisely Si ly A Avenue,, Phillipson Phillip and d Rowan R streets t t marked k d as detour d t route t when h bridge b idg closes l CONSTRUCTION works on Green Street’s new bridge, expected to take six months, will only force closure from the Tone Road intersection to Roy Street, according to a detour map now finalised. As part of the Inland Rail works that begin on January 8, the existing bridge on Green Street (known locally as Roy Street overpass) will be demolished and the rail line will be lowered 2.8 metres to provide height clearance for the 2.4m variance in the double stacked freight trains. Green Street access will still be viable from Rowan Street and mainstream traffic will be diverted along Sisely Avenue and Rowan Street to Green Street, which is marked in green on the map as ‘Traffic detour A’. Traffic detour B is shown in blue on the map, with main road traffic from the north instructed to take Ryley, Reid and Rowan streets to access Green Street. Other local roads will be open for access to key facilities on Green Street such as Northeast Health Wangaratta and medical specialists. Emergency vehicles will use the quickest route to the hospital and motorists should move to the side of the road or stop if necessary so emergency vehicles with flashing lights and/or siren can pass. Ambulance Victoria has been working with the ARTC Inland

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Rail to ensure they can continue to respond effectively to emergencies and serve the local community during road closures. AV does not expect the works will impact its operations and access to Northeast Health Wangaratta. While works on the bridge are taking place Inland Rail will take possession of the rail line and train services will be replaced by coaches. Inland Rail contractor McConnell Dowell conducted consultation with the public earlier this week, including conversations with pedestrians who were using the Green Street bridge. Ed Walker, ARTC Victoria and South Australian general manager projects, said construction activity will disrupt the local community and he thanked them for their patience and understanding as they deliver the project. Another information session will take place on the corner of Murphy and Reid streets to share the design, discuss the detours and answer questions on Wednesday, December 20 between 11am and 1pm. Residents who can’t make it to the information sessions can get in touch by calling 1800 732 761 or via email, victoriaprojects@ artc.com.au

MAIN DETOURS: The Green Street bridge detour map that will be active from January 8 while works on a new bridge are ongoing.

WALK THE TALK: Ben Smith from Inland Rail contractor McConnell Dowell talking to a pedestrian on the Green Street bridge on Tuesday. PHOTO: Inland Rail

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Santa

ǝ ‫! ى‬ƏȇƳǼƺɀً ǔȒȒƳً ƳȒǼȵ ۭ «ɖ ɀȒǔɎ‫ٮ‬ƳȸǣȇǸɀ ƏȇƳ ȸƏǔˢƺ ɎǣƬǸƺɎɀ ƏɮƏǣǼƏƫǼƺ ǔȒȸ ȵɖȸƬǝƏɀƺ Ȓȇ Ɏǝƺ ȇǣǕǝɎ ǔȸȒȅ ‫דגيה‬ȵȅ ‫¨ ى‬ȸȒɖƳǼɵ ɀɖȵȵȒȸɎƺƳ ƫɵ nƏȇƬƺȅȒȸƺ xǣǼƏɯƏً ³ȒɖȇƳƏǼǣɮƺ ¨ȸȒƳɖƬɎǣȒȇɀً zȒȸɎǝ 0ƏɀɎ ÁƺȅȵȒȸƏȸɵ IƺȇƬƺ Rǣȸƺً ÁȒɖƬǝɀɎȒȇƺ ¨ǣƏȇȒɀ ‫« ى‬ȒɎƏȸɵ !Ǽɖƫ Ȓǔ xǣǼƏɯƏ ɴǼƺɵ ‫ ٮ‬³ƏɖɀƏǕƺ ɀǣɿɿǼƺ IȒȸ ȅȒȸƺ ‫¨ ى‬ǣǕǕɵ‫ټ‬ɀ XƬƺ !ȸƺƏȅ ٫ (ȒǼǼɵ ƳƳǣƬɎǣȒȇ !Ȓǔǔƺƺ ǣȇǔȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇ ƬȒȇɎƏƬɎ ِçِ ƬǝƏǣȸɀ ƏȇƳ ȸɖǕɀ ¨ǝǣǼ ‫ټ‬kƺƺǔƺ ‫חגב בוא ז׎ג׎‬ Access to the Park via the Hall entrance

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Stay safe on roads this Christmas period ONLY 10 sleeps away from Christmas, the festive season is now in full swing, with local residents increasingly switching into holiday mode and eyeing off an extended break. Unfortunately, this period invariably coincides with an increase in road trauma across the state, with police pointing to an increase in risk-taking behaviours, particularly in relation to drink driving and speeding, as key factors behind the rise. As of yesterday, 279 people have died on Victorian roads, five of which have occurred in the rural city – including a double fatality linked to alleged alcohol use and speeding. Police continue to sink significant resource into apprehending offenders, particularly during long weekend and holiday periods, however, in many ways, it appears their messaging refuses to sink in with motorists. Recent messaging has focussed around the need to entirely separate drinking and driving, as end-of-year parties and festive celebrations ramp up. It’s damning that so far in December, low-range drink driving readings between .05 and .069 have increased by four per cent on the monthly average, exhibiting that many are prepared to run the gauntlet after drinking, with no consideration of other road users. Road tragedies hit twice as hard at this time of year, leaving much more than just an empty space at the Christmas table, and can easily be caused by a moment of inattention or one drink too many. Leaving 15 minutes earlier than you need to, or calling a taxi to get home after a night out, can give your loved ones the best present they could hope for this Christmas. Your presence.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 1 Thong 5 Sleeveless cloaks 10 She-fox 11 Alone 13 Waterway 14 Made little waves 15 Tribal symbol 16 Gem weight 18 Regions 21 Consumer 22 Hated intensely 25 Uttered wildly 26 Champions of popular rights 29 Principal 31 Minute particles 32 Deputised group 33 Jewish surplice 35 Ancient 37 Watery part of blood 38 Stained 39 Rescues 40 At no time 41 Den DOWN 2 Jewelled headornaments 3 Incarnation 4 Airman 5 Cover with wax 6 Gives life to

7 Catches sight of 8 Sun personified 9 Deity 12 Letting contract 16 Discourteously brief 17 Send money 19 Blushing 20 Book of maps 22 Ballet dancer 23 First woman 24 Low sand hill 25 Spirit 27 Wet, as weather 28 Large meteor 29 Unassuming 30 Put into circulation 32 Assumed attitudes 34 Fruit 35 Annex 36 Perfect score

SOLUTION S T R A P C A P E S G I V I X E N S O L O R I P P L E D C A N A L R T O T E M I A C A R A T A R E A S U S E R D E T E S T E D M R A V E D L U R M A I N T R I B U N E S A T O M S P O S S E I L E P H O D S A N T I Q U E S E R U M S A V E S E D Y E D D N E V E R S T U D Y

FACEBOOK users this week commented on our weekly poll which asked users: Will you utilise the Victorian Government’s Container Deposit Scheme and claim 10 cents back on your containers?

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Margaret McDiarmid: We are saving ours for our grandson to go towards getting him to Scout Jamboree 2025 Paul Crabb: I will donate to charities or sports groups Leslie Matthews: Yes and Yes

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•Facebook users also

Jill Lindquist: Will donate

has been years in the making. Ashley Sulman: We need another river crossing on the other side of town. The congestion in the cbd is ridiculous. Kevin Adams: Crazy. It’s too busy to close for any length of time. It will be chaos. Lisa Delahunty Peach: Won’t be so bad for locals that know, but visitors & outsiders are going to struggle. Tony Davidson: 6 months ? Are we building it from matchsticks?

• commented on the Inland Rail works to replace the Green Street bridge in January.

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Joanne Pane: OMG.... that will be a disaster, and so close to the hospital, hopefully it won’t effect emergency vehicles, but I’m sure it will. Sam Pitty: So much negativity towards improved infrastructure, work for locals and local businesses. This

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• • •

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Kylie Dowell: After reading the comments, and continuously shaking my head in disbelief, I feel the need to say something. This is 6 months of rerouting.... not permanent. It is not a freeway going through houses, it is not a raised railway line, it is not going to change our lives!! Ash Shearer: Imagine a world where people complained about poor infrastructure and appreciated something being done about it.

•

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14,489

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Visit our website to vote at www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Horrific violence in Gaza must end THE daily stream of footage and reporting on the atrocities being committed by the Israeli government on the people of Gaza are overwhelming, and leave me wondering how those trapped within Gaza - if they somehow survive being bombed and starved – will ever be able to rebuild something of a life. In that light, it is concerning that some commenters, like Barry McArthur from Wangaratta (Friday, December 6), are more concerned about an imagined violence of protestors than the very real violence being conducted by the Israeli government on the people of Gaza. A violence that experts, such as the UN Human Rights Commission, say is a genocide in the making. At least 17,000 people in Gaza have been killed since bombing by the Israeli government began in October, with an estimated 70 per cent of these deaths being women and children. The actions of the Israeli government go far beyond any common understanding of self defence in response to the attacks by Hamas militants in October. Each week 100,000s of people across the world rally in the streets with a simple slogan: Ceasefire. Now. Not a “humanitarian pause”, not a “call for restraint”. Ceasefire. Now. While bad faith interpretations can attempt to twist the motivations of those in the streets into something more sinister, what is plain for all to see is the horrific violence being inflicted on those within Gaza and the simple call to our political leaders: Ceasefire. Now. James Cameron, Wangaratta

Ukraine braces for another winter at war AUSTRALIANS are being encouraged to remember the people of Ukraine as winter starts to bite and attacks continue across the country. Staying warm is a matter of life and death in Ukraine as temperatures drop below freezing around the country. While the world has been focused on other crises, the people of Ukraine continue to suffer. They are facing winter in homes with holes in the walls and shattered windows, no heating, and no income. Many are only surviving with the help

Did the recent power outage prompt your household to look at installing your own home solar battery? TEMPEST ON TEMPLETON: Residents across the rural city could only watch as menacing storms passed through on Wednesday night, causing hail, gusts of wind as high as 90kph, torrential rain and grass and tree fires in parts of Tarrawingee and King Valley. Pictured is the view from Templeton Street before the storm hit and impacted around 2000 homes in west Wangaratta and Wangandary without power overnight. PHOTO: David Godkin of the UN Refugee Agency and other humanitarian organisations. The United Nations Refugee Agency is providing thermal blankets and winter clothing and helping to repair and insulate damaged homes. UNHCR is also distributing cash for basic items like food. UNHCR is hoping to reach an estimated 900,000 people with crucial support this winter, and we need all the support we can get. It’s been almost two years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Nearly 3.7 million people are internally displaced in Ukraine, while more than 6.2 million refugees from the country

have been recorded globally. The world’s focus has shifted to other emergencies around the globe in recent months, but we must not forget the people of Ukraine. There is no end to the war in sight and people still desperately need our help. I encourage Australians to support Ukrainians during the coldest and darkest months of the year. Please donate via: https://www.unrefugees.org.au/emergency-response/ukraineemergency/. Trudi Mitchell, Australia for UNHCR CEO

POLL RESULTS CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME

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

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THIS WEEK

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Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

Did the recent power outage prompt your household to look at installing your own home solar battery?

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 9 NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Facebook users this week commented on Wangaratta councillors being asked to approve a planning permit to build a 24-hour/7-day a week, 7-Eleven service station and food and drink store at the corner of Ryley and Perry streets.

• • •

Barbara Webster: What about getting permission getting an animal rescue build? Jacqui Crow: If it has Krispy Kreme donuts then it’s a yes from me. Gill Delaney: Please....a petrol station,plus convenience store, just

like Apco,in West End area. How hard is that for council to see. Patsy Haynes: it will likely bring competition to fuel prices, just like the Apco in Wodonga are contending with. At least that’s a positive to throw into the equation. Samantha McKenzie: Yarra road would really benefit from a 7/11. I’d be putting something else there like a youth centre, play centre, childcare centre or even free parking. We don’t need another petrol station in this location. Fraser Elliott: Darcy Keith Mitch Connor. Where was this 10

•

years ago? Jump the back fence into a box of Krispy Kremes instead of a box of used tyres. Bruce Neilson: I thought we are all ment to buy EV’s. It needs to be a charging station not a petrol station also l though it is a 7-11 not a 24-7. Matt Laurence: Ash Shearer Wangaratta don’t like Krispy Kreme donuts or something. Andrea Simmons: Need one out Yarrawonga road not another in the centre of town. Town is expanding that fast and you still have to drive to centre for fuel.

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Lisa Delahunty Peach: Wangaratta does not need another petrol station….or fast food joint. Especially 7/11!! Mickey Bonacci: Put one down yarrawonga way, already have 10 billion servos on that side of town. Sue Holland: This need to go on the other side of town they have nothing. Marianne Grinter: No....terrible location.Traffic coming out of Perry street is already a nightmare. And I certainly don’t envy the houses around this area......

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Tweet Lions Club of Wangaratta X USERS this week tweeted about crepe myrtle flowers in Wangaratta, the presentation of the book Too Many Dead and local horse racing.

sezandflicka

A weekend in the high country. We are finally back on the road and the 4wd tracks! The weather still didn’t go our way as we drove straight into a cloud on our way to Dargo. We ended up coming home, camping close to Bright and heading to Falls Creek instead!

Annie @anniethenigma In Wangaratta the council have planted them all through on the nature strips. It’s not only the flowers but the colours of the trunk/branches are beautiful too. AMPS - Australian Medical Professionals’ Society @ AMPS_RedUnion A massive thanks to @TopherField for speaking at our recent presentation for our book, Too Many Dead, in Wangaratta. Grenville Stud @grenvillestud With just the two runners this weekend Stratosphere continued to chalk up the winners siring a double across Tasmania and Victoria. Red Sphere won easily at Devonport on Friday making it 2 wins from just 4 starts and Legacy Rose bolted in at Wangaratta on Saturday.

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

@LionsWangaratta

Thanks to everyone that made last night’s Carols by Candlelight a success, including the Wangaratta Concert Band, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Wangaratta Council, Wangaratta Motor Group, Soundalive Productions,

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

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Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Start of our summer among the hottest, most humid in 50 years

THE constant rumbling of evaporative coolers atop roofs throughout Wangaratta day and night has punctuated the past fortnight as residents struggled through one of the city’s hottest and most humid starts to summer in 50 years. Nine of the first 13 days of December have seen the temperature exceed 30 degrees, with December’s mean temperature up until December 12 being 31.6 degrees, the hottest being 36.2 degrees on Tuesday this week. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) says Wangaratta’s mean minimum temperature for the first 12 days of December was 15.7 degrees, which is four degrees above the normal December mean. According to local retired CSIRO climatologist Peter Nelson, the mean minimum temperature is the highest since the first 12 days of December 1975, when it was 16.1 degrees. “Other very warm nights for the first 12 days of December happened before in 1942, 1954 and 1965 in Wangaratta,” he said. “All these past episodes were preceded by significant rainfalls back to November, but high temperatures and dry conditions did set from the third week of December to well into January. “ Mr Nelson said since November 17, the wind directions have

been from an easterly component nearly every day - not only in North East Victoria but across most of Victoria and even into South Australia. “This of course has led to the persistence of warmer than normal conditions with humidity above normal for this time of year,” he said. “In addition the sea surface temperatures have been well above normal the last two months just east of Bass Strait adding to the humidity. “Warm nights have been an uncomfortable feature since the last week of November. “Last Sunday night the minimum temperature of 23 degrees in Wangaratta was the third warmest for December since 1957, behind 25 degrees in December of 1972 and 25.3 degrees in December of 1994. “We certainly sweltered during the last week of December and the first week of January after these two abnormally warm nights. “Significant rain arrived during the second week of January in 1973 and 1995.” While today and tomorrow’s maximum temperatures in Wangaratta s are not to exceed 30 degrees, the BOM is forecasting maximums above 30 degrees on Sunday, Monday and potentially our hottest summer day so far of 37 degrees on Tuesday.

KEEPING HIS COOL: Sam Calvene is among a growing number of local residents who’ve sought relief from the summer heat in the Ovens River at Frank Garth Reserve this week. Wangaratta has been sweltering with above average temperatures and unusually stiffling humidity in what has been one of the city’s hottest starts to summer in 50 years. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

You can help protect your workmates.

If you work for a contractor picking, packing or planting fruit or vegetables, you’re probably a labour hire worker, and you’re protected under law. If you think you or your workmates are being treated unfairly, let us know. Visit labourhireauthority.vic.gov.au/hort-worker or call 1300 545 200. Translation services are available.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 11

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Christmas

Gift Ideas Surprise someone special this Christmas with tickets to a show or a gift voucher. There is something for everyone!

FEB

The Australian INXS Show

FRI 7.30pm

MAR FRI 7.30pm

APR SAT 7.30pm

27 JUL

SAT 7.30pm

10 FEB

Dan Sultan

SAT 7.30pm

Robertson Brothers 1960’s Variety TV Show

Creedence Clearwater Collective

Swan Lake – Victorian State Ballet

16 MAR

SAT 7.30pm

11 MAY

AUG

FEB

Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows

Get Rhythm – The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show

The Beach Boys Experience

25 MAR

Ballroom Blitz

MON 7.30pm

21 JUNE

FRI 8.00pm

Cnr Ford & Ovens Sts Wangaratta | 03 5722 8105 | wpacc.com.au

SEPT FRI 7.30pm

FEB

APR FRI 7.30pm

Echoes of Pink Floyd – Signs of Life

FRI 8.00pm

Choir Boys – Run to Paradise

Kate Miller-Heidke – Catching Diamonds

SUN 6.30pm

FRI 8.00pm

SAT 7.30pm

29 JUNE

The Roy Orbison Story

Arj Barker – the Mind Field

SAT 8.00pm

The Tap Pack

16 NOV

SAT 7.30pm

Music of the Night

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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All aboard for Christmas lights tour

• ATO Assistant Commissioner Jillian Kitto.

Clock is ticking on small business lodgment penalty amnesty

JOIN the th h Business B i Wangaratta W tt team for this year’s tour of Christmas lights and festive cheer across Wangaratta. With support from Brock at Fallons Bus Services and Tully Lyster at McDonalds Wangaratta, Business Wangaratta life member Patti Stafford has set up two nights of Christmas lights viewing, tonight and next Friday. Meet at St Patrick’s Hall for an 8pm sharp departure. From there you will take the lights tour including a pitstop at Maccas for a soft serve treat before continuing the tour. Seats are limited, and perfect for those who don’t wish to drive. Bookings via https://www. trybooking.com/CNPFJ follow the link to join us, and any questions please email businesswangarattainfo@gmail. com. SEE THE LIGHTS: Lucas Gilmore (left), Dave Fuller, Jenny Fuller and young Riley Gilmore are encouraging the community to jump on board the local Christmas lights bus tour tonight and next week, which will include a tasty soft serve pit stop at Maccas. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

NDIS review recommendations offer some positive steps forward for carers CARERS Victoria, the state-wide peak body for all unpaid carers, welcomes the recommendations of the NDIS Review that has recognised the need to better support carers of people with a disability “We were pleased to see the review recognise the need for navigation support, information, and capacity building for individuals, families, and communities,” Carers Victoria chief executive officer, Judith Abbott, said. “This reflects the significant role carers have in the lives of people with a disability, and as

part of the care economy.” Carers Victoria also supports in principle recommendations to implement sustainable arrangements for families and caregivers of children with developmental concerns and disability, and trials of new living arrangements at key life stages with priority given to people living with their ageing parents. Recommendations to improve planning and assessment processes have also been welcomed by Carers Victoria, as almost half of all carers involved in that system

report that the processes for accessing services are complex and time consuming. There are, however, some areas of the Review findings where Carers Victoria is keen to still see some further consideration. For example, it wants a role for key people in care relationships with participants to be embedded in the future system. “People in care relationships with people with disability are often integral to their ability to both access and participate in the NDIS,” Ms Abbott said.

“Into the future, NDIS arrangements for both planning and support, need to routinely include those carers for the broader system to be sustainable. “This is particularly important when more than 90 per cent of Victorians with disability live in family households not by themselves or in shared accommodation.” Carers Victoria looks forward to contributing to the implementation of these reforms which have the potential to make a real and practical difference to both people living with disability and their carers.

LATE lodgment penalties will be remitted under the amnesty which ends on December 31 2023 for small business income tax returns, fringe benefits tax (FBT) returns and business activity statements (BAS) originally due between December 1, 2019 and February 28, 2022. More than 14,000 small businesses have taken advantage of the amnesty since it kicked off on June 1 2023, with more than $48 million in failure to lodge (FTL) penalties remitted. Directors who bring their company lodgments up to date can also have FTL penalties remitted if they rely on company lodgments to finalise their own tax affairs. This applies to eligible lodgments made between June 1 and December 31 2023. ATO Assistant Commissioner, Jillian Kitto said this amnesty is the perfect opportunity for small businesses to re-engage with their tax affairs and get back on track with their lodgment obligations without penalties. “All you need to do to take advantage of this opportunity is lodge, and we will remit any failure to lodge penalty,” Ms Kitto said. “Having up-to-date lodgments is important, as it will give you a better understanding of your true financial position and ensure you can make informed decisions about your priorities and future planning.” If a small business has ceased trading, they need to advise their registered tax professional, or contact the ATO directly to seek assistance with finalising their tax obligations, which may include lodging overdue returns, cancelling their ABN and paying any amounts overdue. While penalties will be remitted under the amnesty, if a business finds themselves with a tax debt after their overdue forms are lodged, it’s important they pay in full to avoid further interest charges or check the ATO website to see if they are eligible for a payment plan.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 13

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Wrapping up the year with a concert

By CHLOE JAENICKE

A CONCERT is coming to Morrison’s in Glenrowan to celebrate underrated musicals and musicians while raising money for a good cause next Friday, December 22. Campbell Timms, one of the organisers and performers in the Wrapped Up concert, said there will be a range of songs from musical theatre as well as Christmas related songs with all money from ticket sale and donations going to Upper Murray Family Care (UMFC). The event initially started when he and and around 20 other students from local schools decided to put on the Australian musical Goddess, which follows a single mother of two struggling to juggle work and raising her children. The idea later evolved into a concert where Christmas songs and songs from underrated musicals, like Goddess, will be performed while giving back

to the local community. “We thought the concert would be a fun substitute for that initial concept so we wanted to take little parts of that initial idea into this current production,” Campbell said. “We’re still donating to UMFC because we think what they do is wonderful and definitely impacts the community.” Along with the performances from local students, there will also be plenty of other entertainment from games and raffles to food and wine accompanied by great views. “We do have some donations from local businesses but it will all be a surprise on the day, we will have a spinning wheel reveal what prizes each person wins,” he said. Campbell said he’s looking forward to celebrating something he loves with a group of students who share his interests while giving back to the community. “I’m really excited to have a group of people who I re-

ally care about performing with me,” he said. “I’m looking forward to watching these talented people who are all a bit younger than me come up as I did through the school’s art program and this town’s arts. “I really hope that there’s going to be something for everyone in the show.” Other performers in the concert include Edward Browne, Gracie York, Tess Goodman and Tully Frasca who will be performing musical numbers from Goddess, Schmigadoon, Only Murders in the Building and many more. Tickets can be found at http://wrappedup.info or can be purchased at the concert which will take place on December 22. MUSCIAL PERFORMANCE: Edward Browne, Gracie York (front), Tess Goodman, Campbell Timms and Tully Frasca are all excited to be performing in the Wrapped Up concert on December 22. PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

FREE Sum

m Even er ts!

23/24

Featuring

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NYE

Whether it’s the Lighting of the Christmas Tree, New Years Eve celebrations, an open air movie, or getting on the danceﬂoor at the Outdoor Ball. There are events for everyone in Wangaratta this summer! VISIT

wangaratta.vic.gov.au/sitp OR SCAN THE QR FOR ALL THE EVENTS!

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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2023 WANGARATTA YOUNG WRITERS AWARD

Mystery of the Masked Ball MANO Sangars (above) earned an honourable mention in the 2023 Wangaratta Young Writers Award year five/six story category with this piece. The competition was again jointly run by the Rotary Club of Wangaratta, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta, in conjunction with the Wangaratta Library.

he day was like any other, normal, but all terrible things happen on normal days. Days like this can change from a perfect day to a living nightmare in an instant. No-one knows that better than me because my life turned upside-down on a day like this. My name is Alyse, and this is my story. Piece 1: The Grand Hall’s Masked Ball Looking out of the window, it seemed that the weather matched my mood, grey, cloudy with some unpredictable rain and thunder. “Alyse,” Mia, my best friend called, “time to go.” “Already?” I called back. “If we don’t go now, we will be late.” I looked at my watch and it was 7:00pm, she was right. I ran upstairs and put on my best dress and make-up and ran to the car where Mia was waiting. Mia threw me the keys and told me to drive, I took the keys without any hesitation and drove to the venue. **** When we got to the party, it had already started. The party was for the most talented artists, poets etc. My invitation said that I was one of the talented young artists who had been chosen by Lady Ada Morgan herself. It also said that I could have a plus-one, that’s why Mia was allowed to come. Although Mia is an exceptional artist, she didn’t get an invitation. After the security measures, we went in. I got an instant headache from the gold inlaid in the walls, floors and chandeliers, and it looked like Mia got one too from the look on her face. After a few minutes the headache cleared and when I got a good look at the grand hall, I was speechless. The grand hall was everything you could imagine a grand hall to be, put together and made elegant. Piece 2: Betrayal The grand hall was breathtaking with the

MYSTERY WRITER: Mano Sangars won an honourable mention for her fictional story of a “living nightmare” in the grade five/six story section of the 2023 Wangaratta Young Writers Award. original Lady Ada Morgan paintings, sculptures and artworks of all kinds displayed in the hall. It was the best day in my life getting to witness these artworks in real life. I could go on for days about how amazing it was, but I have a story to tell. **** fter a few hours of staring at paintings and people I got a little bored. Then I noticed that Mia was missing, and I hadn’t seen her since she went to the drinks table and got me a raspberry and pineapple-flavoured drink. I started to get worried, and my mind was spinning into all the possibilities of what could have happened to her. Then suddenly a gong sounded, and everyone started to walk towards a balcony where Lady Ada Morgan herself was standing. I remembered that this was the speech she was going to give. It said so in the envelope that she was going to speak at 12:00pm on the dot. After the speech everything settled down and I started looking for Mia again. I searched everywhere, asked everyone, but Mia was nowhere, so I went to the restroom to freshen up to go home and look for her there. As I entered the restroom there was a scream loud enough to make your ears bleed, and the voice sounded familiar, it was Mia! I ran out of the restroom and ran towards the direction from where the scream came...it was lady Ada; she was dead and there was a knife lying near my feet. People started flooding in from every direction, whispering, calling the police saying I killed Lady

Ada. Soon enough the police came filtering in and they still put cuffs on me even when I said I didn’t kill her. Who would want to kill Lady Ada Morgan? Then through all the people I saw Mia and the evil smirk on her face, and I immediately knew what had happened, all the pieces were fitting together. Mia framed me, Mia killed Lady Ada, not me. Piece 3: The Lam I ran and ran and ran, I ran away from the police, Mia, Lady Ada’s dead body, from all the people. **** went straight home and started packing everything I needed. Food, money, passports, everything, and I knew exactly what I had to do, I had to fake my own death, then I could live on some remote island where there were not many people far, far from here. A place where I can settle down and live out the rest of my days but first, I must get to step one, fake my death in an unreliable newspaper. If I do this there is no turning back, I can never return to my normal life, to my art school, to my house, to my family. But I must do this, I have no choice: ‘She who hesitates is lost’. Bye, perfect, normal life, I won’t be coming back. And I went out the front door. Piece 4: The Visitor As I went out the front door, there was a person there dressed in a black coat and hat with a glittering silver and black mask. I almost screamed. “Stop,” the stranger said, “don’t draw attention to yourself. I’m not here to arrest you. I’m here to help. I believe that you didn’t kill her.” I stopped myself from

bolting away. The stranger said, “My name is Alex, I am a junior detective at the VIDA, and I know you didn’t do this.” “How do you know this?” I asked. “Because l’m a detective and I saw some girl with a wicked sharp dagger in her hand heading towards Lady Ada’s room at the masked ball, and that girl wasn’t you, I am sure of it.” “It was Mia, my friend, and I know why she killed Lady Ada and placed the blame on me,” I sighed. “Then tell me,” Alex said. “If you tell me, I can get this all sorted out and we can go to our normal lives.” “We?” I asked. “Yes, we. I might get fired if I don’t figure it out,” said Alex, “and you might have to spend the rest of your life in jail.” Piece 5: The Story “I don’t tell people this, but Mia and I grew up at the same orphanage in Bright. We were best friends, but I always saw jealousy in Mia’s eyes whenever I did better than her, and that’s why I kept her close. One day a family came and adopted me, and Mia was alone. A year later Mia got adopted too, and after a few years Mia and I found each other in a small coffee shop Mia and I used to sneak out to while the warden was sleeping. Later, I visited the orphanage and found out that after I got adopted, Mia had some problems. She was lying when she said she was adopted, she wasn’t adopted, she was sent to an asylum for a few years and we met when she was released. I decided to keep it quiet, so she didn’t run away, and I also decided to keep her close, so she didn’t hurt anyone.”

Piece 6: The Plan “So, you got a plan?” I asked Alex. “Yes, actually I do have a plan, so listen carefully,” Alex said. “We’re going to…” I can’t reveal the whole plan to you, it’s classified information. But what I can tell you is that the next day we rented two rooms in a remote inn where there was a newspaper strike. And after that it involved breaking into… and getting caught. Piece 7: The Grand Escape The police were chasing after us for so long. We have been on the lam for a week now, we’ve collected so much evidence that I didn’t kill Ada, but Mia covered almost all her tracks that suggested that she killed Ada. But I said almost all her tracks we snuck into the forensic department’s storage unit and found a strand of Mia’s black silky hair along with some photos of the dagger that was drenched in poison and blood, Lady Ada’s blood, which almost made me cry. She was my idol and now she was dead because of my best friend. Suddenly, blue and red lights came flashing from every direction with special forces flooding in. The only exit was an exit that led to the dam, and if we jumped in and swam for a long time, we could make it to the masked ball hall where all this started and would end. I signalled to Alex to go to the dam and swim to the masked ball hall. **** hen I got there Alex was just standing there and not taking the bungee jumping equipment and putting it on. I rushed to the equipment and threw some to Alex and asked him

what was wrong. “I’m afraid of heights,” he answered. I hadn’t thought of that - poor Alex. Jumping is his only escape from the cops. “I can do it,” he said. He put on the equipment, and I held his hand and we jumped into the water could be into the hands of the cops but at least we were safe, for now. Piece 8: Race Against Time We swam and swam, even with bullets shooting through the water, until we ran out of breath and then we went up to the surface and we made it. We made it to the masked ball hall, and everything there was reminiscent of the things that had happened with Mia and how she betrayed me, and she framed me. It happened so fast, with speed boats chasing after us and bullets being shot but not at us, at the special forces that were running towards us. The special forces weren’t shooting at us either, they were shooting at the speed boats, and we were caught in the middle of the gun fire. Piece 9: Not the Whole Puzzle I banged on the table shouting: “It’s not fair, we all want justice, we all have been wronged, why not get justice by cutting the head off the snake?” “Then 10 more heads will grow back,” Amire shouted back. Okay, you must be confused, who is this Amire, why are they shouting, where did the gun fire go? Well I can answer all your questions, so let me fill you in. This is what happened... We were in the middle of the gun fire, so Alex lay flat on the floor, and I followed him and did the same. Ten minutes later, all the special forces were dead, then the speed boats came and docked on the shore of the beach in front of the hall, they tied us up and put a black blindfold over our eyes and told us you better not shout if you want to be safe, and the rest is basically they all were framed, they formed a group, their leader was Amire, and they were recruiting us to help us get justice. Piece 10: The Camp We were in a tent with a table in the middle with a paper on it with a blueprint. The only people in the tent were Amire, Alex, and me, the plan we were formulating was classified. But I can tell you that it was massive, impressive, and explosive. But that’s all I can tell you, for now. If you want more, read Book 2 - Mia’s Mystery.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 15

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Sharing family journey to Pizzini Wines in Whitfield By ANITA MCPHERSON

ROBERTO and Rosetta Pizzini were among the nearly 200,000 Italians to head to Australia in the 1950s. They left their home in the Trentino region of northern Italy and settled in the Myrtleford area, where they worked together with Roberto’s brothers and their wives to build a new life. They began as sharefarmers in the booming Australian tobacco industry, trying to acclimatise in their new environment, working hard and enduring basic conditions. Eventually Roberto and Rosetta became known as Robert and Rose and keen to integrate, they learnt English and made friends in the community. By the 70s the tobacco industry was facing challenging restrictions, the farms were split up and Robert and Rose settled in Whitfield, at the site of Pizzini Wines today. Robert had always grown grapes as a hobby and one of the first things he did upon arriving in Whitfield was to plant a little vineyard and grow a grape variety from his homeland, making wine for family and friends. The couple’s sons Rinaldo and Alfredo (Fred) both got involved in the business and when Fred married Katrina they went on to establish the business we’re familiar with today. Natalie Pizzini shares the amazing story of her family heritage,

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SUMMER READING: Pizzini Wines Natalie Pizzini shares her amazing family story in the latest edition of North East Living magazine (inset), which is out now. PHOTO: Sandra Lee Photography how the business grew and its focus today, in the summer edition of North East Living, which features Natalie on the cover. We also find out what drew threetime ALF premiership player Steve Johnson back to North East Victoria, learn about how the Into Our

Hands Community Foundation is supporting important initiatives in the local community, and hear about how the Moyhu community is preparing to grow. We also tour through a compact but contemporary Beechworth home, have a rest and refresh at All

Saints Estate’s flagship restaurant KIN, and explore some High Country bushwalks. It’s all in the latest edition of North East Living magazine, available for $7.95 from local newsagencies or from the Wangaratta Chronicle office in Rowan Street.

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Community takes a stand across 16 days By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN WANGARATTA Centre Against Violence (CAV) were grateful of the increased community business and organisation support behind the local 16 days of activism efforts this year. The annual international movement against gender-based violence concluded on Sunday with CAV again leading the charge. This year CAV focused their awareness efforts through social media, starting their campaign with the representation of the 64 lives lost to gender-based violence in Australia last year through members of the community who gathered at King George Gardens. Through social media, CAV uploaded videos of staff and respected members of the community to speak on important topics and terms relating to gender-based violence including respect, gender equity and red flags. CAV chief executive officer, Jaime Chubb, said she found social media to be a collaborative and strong method of working with the community to pass on key messages around addressing gender-based violence responsibility, its prevalence in the community and the the breadth of organisations and support services available locally.

“We felt the engagement was really positive, we had lots of people reaching out and offering support and we had lots of partner agencies and organisations come and be a part of it as well,” she said. “Gender-based violence, and family violence is everyone’s responsibility, it’s not just about feminists, it’s not just about service organisations, it’s not just about those who have been impacted by it themselves, this is something that impacts everybody and we’re all responsible for changing. “I think we’re raising the message that it’s not people who are impacted by violence who should feel shame, reaching out for help is a courageous thing to do for yourself and your family. “We’re changing some of that narrative as a nation around what some of that help seeking can look like.” Recent Crime Statistics Victoria data for the 2022/23 financial year indicated a 2.1 per cent increase in the number of family incidents in the rural city, while 322 people were provided homelessness support by specialised family violence services in Wangaratta. Ms Chubb said it was important for those affected by family violence to recognise community strength and support towards them to enable people to be more willing and able to reach

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEEKEND BRIEFS

Wangaratta community market THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm. There is a wide range of stalls to browse and refreshments are available. Stalls are available for $25 each (no bookings required) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

Heartscape at Wangaratta Art Gallery

IN IT TOGETHER: Wangaratta Centre Against Violence observed an increased support behind their 16 days of activism campaigning this year. PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke out and access support services. “We’re a lovely little, connected community, we like to think we’re all safe and protected from it when the reality is far from that.” “I think we underestimate how incredible people who have survived family violence are, their capacity to keep themselves and their children safe, their capacity to live with the stress, they have enormous strength and resilience and I think we’re really starting to recognise and pay homage to that.” CAV will continue its messaging within the community with

a variety of planned events next year, including their Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Run team. “We’ve got lots planned over the next 12 months to continue that message, this isn’t just a 16 days thing,” Ms Chubb said If you or someone you know needs help due to family violence, contact CAV during business hours at The Orange Door on 1800 271 157. If you require immediate support outside of business hours, please call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.

AN exhibition by the members of Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) called Heartscape has opened at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Heartscape taps into the substance of our lives, the notional landscapes of the human heart and emotions, inhabited by people, animals, homes, art, music and the material world, which we have experienced with our senses. See a wide variety of artworks on display, created by local artists, in Gallery 2 until December 17.

Side by Side at Art Gallery on Ovens A GROUP exhibition by the resident artists at Art Gallery on Ovens is now open at the gallery, in the laneway off Murphy Street. Side by Side is an opportunity to see a diverse collection of local artworks showcasing the many different styles and interests of the participating artists who run the non-profit gallery. The exhibition is open from 10am to 4pm on Thursday, Friday and Monday and from 10am until 2pm on Saturday and Sunday until December 23, and entry is free.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 17

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WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Bush Boogie in Whorouly

Creatives of Wangaratta Christmas market

RURAL City of Wangaratta Youth Services will host a free Bush Boogie event for all ages at Remel in Whorouly tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Put on our dancing boots, dress “tacky wacky” and enjoy an unforgettable night of fun with a live DJ, exciting activities, junkyard beats, country dances, lawn games and free food. All ages are welcome to the youth event (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult) with free bus transport available and tickets at Humanitix.

THE next Creatives of Wangaratta and Surrounds (CoWS) market will be held on Sunday at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street from 9am to 1pm. There will be wide range of stalls showcasing handcrafted items made by creative in the local region, including candles, earrings, hair accessories, pet accessories, home décor, art, craft and much more, with entry free and all welcome.

Family movie night in Cheshunt PANGERANG Community Hub will host a family fun night at the Cheshunt Hall tonight. All are welcome to gather for an outdoor cinema screening of the movie “8-Bit Christmas” plus some fun activities for everyone to enjoy. The event starts at 5.30pm with the movie starting at dusk and entry is free.

Moyhu Lions Christmas market

Wangaratta Concert Band to perform CAPTIVATING LANDSCAPES: Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt welcomes visitors to see Beauty & Fear, which opens at the gallery on Saturday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Artists come together in Beauty & Fear at Wangaratta Art Gallery By ANITA MCPHERSON

THE Moyhu Lions Christmas country market will be held at the Moyhu Lions Park tomorrow morning from 8am until 12pm. Have breakfast, shop for Christmas goodies and enter the best-dressed Christmas-themed outfit competition, with prizes to be won for adults and children.

Museum exhibition in Bainz Gallery THE Wangaratta Historical Society invites the community to step back in time with their exhibition titled “Museum@Bainz” on display in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library. The exhibition includes reproduced prints taken from the valuable glass slides which are just a small part of the museum’s collection, offering a fascinating insight into Wangaratta’s past. It is open throughout December.

AN exhibition called Beauty & Fear bringing together recent work by artists Robert Hirschmann and Andy Pye - who share a profound connection with north east Victoria and its landscape - will open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery tomorrow. Together, the artists demonstrate their deep affinity for the natural world - the mountains, boulders, waterfalls, and birdlife captured in Andy Pye’s vibrant paintings on canvas and board, or the night sky lit and framed by an iridescent moon in Robert Hirschmann’s gestural paintings and drawings. Eldorado local Andy Pye is known for his expressive depictions of the Australian landscape, dense with trees and

capturing the sounds, life, and movement of the bush, often painted en plein air, within the landscape itself. Robert Hischmann’s work considers the landscape through expressive abstraction. He marks, rubs and reworks his large-scale paintings and works on paper, sometimes over years, repeatedly revisiting works to continue his exploration of subject. Both artists have exhibited extensively and are represented in private and corporate art collections across the country. Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt said the exhibition is sure to be a dynamic feast for the senses, with visitors bound to be captivated the striking use of colour and the scale of the works. “Both artists use a dramatic palette to convey the formidable

forces of nature that shape the landscape, or skyscape, and recognise the potential danger, or the dark, that lies therein,” she said. “Yet the exhibition will also capture the artists’ capacity to convey tranquil serenity, in luminous and delicious colour, alongside this power.” Robert Hirschmann and Andy Pye will join Rachel Arndt at the gallery tomorrow for a conversation about their work, starting at 2pm. An official opening will then be held at 2.30pm by Murray Art Museum Albury head of curatorial and collections, Michael Moran. Refreshments will be served and free tickets can be booked now at wangarattaartgallery. com.au/Programs/Beauty-FearIn-Conversation-OpeningReception.

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THE Wangaratta Concert Band will perform a lively mix of joyful Christmas music and traditional Christmas Carols for your enjoyment and participation on Sunday afternoon and evening. The two Christmas concerts will be held at St Patrick’s Church from 2.30pm to 3.30pm and at the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, with all welcome.

Milawa Carols in the Park THE always popular Milawa Carols in the Park will be held at the Milawa Hall grounds on Sunday. The singing program begins at 7.15pm and will feature Rodney Vincent, Lachlan McIntyre, Antonia Maher, Atty Carr, Trevor Hourigan, Charlotte Bongers and Denise O’Keefe. The Pulsate Academy Dancers will also perform, along with The Holy Trinity Cathedral Choristers and Sing Australia, with a special appearance by Santa and Rudolph. Candles, food, soft drinks and raffle tickets will be available to purchase on the night including from the Rotary Club barbecue from 6pm with all welcome (BYO chairs and rugs.)

WEEKLY MARKET BACK ON TUESDAY 9TH JANUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024 PREMIER FEATURE SALES

Tuesday 2nd: Angus Weaner & Grown Steers NVLX at 9.00am / Wangaratta at 2.00pm Thursday 4th: Hereford, Black Baldy, European & Other Breeds Weaner & Grown Steers NVLX at 9.00am / Wangaratta at 2.00pm Thursday 11th: Beef Bred & F1 Females NVLX at 9.00am Contact David Meehan 0418 628 945 or Justin Keane 0427 927 500 Justin Keane: 0427 927 500 Reiley Murtagh: 0455 550 625 Henry Dundas: 0428 573 109 Tim Donald: 0429 707 248

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Harvey Benton: 0407 265 240 Barry Sessions: 0429 928 220

Gordon Perkins: 0439 662 030 Shawn Spooner: 0427 652 439

"Experience and Reputation"

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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NORTH EAST NATURALLY

YELLOW THORNBILL LITTLE RAYS OF SUNSHINE By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS THE Yellow Thornbill is another species of little brown birds that bird observers often have difficulty identifying, although it is the most yellow of the thornbill group. They are typically found in pairs or small flocks and almost always among the foliage of trees where they feed among the leaves, twigs and small branches on insects and occasionally seeds. They emit harsh, scratchy twonote calls: ‘tzid-id’ or ‘tzid-id, tis-tis’. The cheeks and ear of the Yellow Thornbill are streaked with white, while above and below the tiny thorn-shaped bill the head, chin and throat have a buff-brown wash which fades into the yellow underparts. There is no obvious difference between males and females, however young thornbills are duller in colour. The yellow underparts and lack of markings on the head distinguish it from the other species of thornbill. Yellow Thornbills are found in the eastern states of Australia from the lower half of Queensland, through most of NSW, all of Victoria and extending into South Australia. They are found in open forests, woodlands and shrublands especially where there is a welldeveloped middle layer of shrubs or

small trees, and can often be seen in parks and gardens, preferring more established areas with welldeveloped shrubs and trees. Breeding pairs of Yellow Thornbills may sometimes have helpers to assist them with feeding the young. Females build a rounded domed nest, with a narrow, hooded entrance near the top, out of grasses, bark and other materials, lining it with a comfortable layer of feathers, fur or soft plants like mosses. The nest is usually in twigs suspended from the outer branches of trees. The female incubates the eggs alone, but both parents (and possibly helpers) feed the young. In our region, Yellow Thornbills are present year-round and are often encountered in parts of the Warby, Killawarra, Chiltern and Springhurst Hills where there are shrubby patches. These delightful little birds are also present in some of the larger urban parks and gardens in our towns where established shrubs are found.

ŨŞİƎíƢƪœíƢļŨŞƖ ƢŨ Ƣķė The College is delighted to congratulate Cathedral College Wangaratta’s Class of 2023 on their VCE results. We are proud of all our Year Twelve students, not only for their academic results but for all their achievements.

WE FLOCK TOGETHER: The tiny woodland Yellow Thornbill perched on a twig. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

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A Cathedral College education is about preparing students to be lifelong learners, with a well-rounded education, equipping them with the skills required to navigate the various career choices and pathways that lay before them. Whilst some may measure VCE success solely by ATAR scores, this does not tell the whole story of each individual’s journey. The diversity of pathways, including university, apprenticeships, employment and TAFE reflects the value Cathedral College Wangaratta places on providing a holistic education that focuses on the individual.

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344 Wangaratta-Whitfield Road PO Box 1086 Wangaratta VIC 3676 Telephone: 03 5722 2144

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 19

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YOUR NEXT WINE ADVENTURE AWAITS GIFT VOUCHERS the perfect gift for Christmas

From gourmet dining experiences to behind-the-scene tours, give the gift of a wine adventure at Brown Brothers. Redeemable at our Restaurant and Cellar Door, or for a winery tour, package or experience

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Proudly family owned and operated since 1889, Brown Brothers are taking 132 years of winemaking excellence and pairing it with seriously good food bringing fresh ﬂavour to the region.

Wine and Food Adventure Join the chefs in our Kitchen Garden, before taking a tour of the winery and tasting in Cellar Door. Your journey concludes with a specially designed lunch, using produce you helped pick that morning.

With an ethos of fresh produce and a focus on minimal waste and sustainability, Brown Brothers Restaurant is King Valley’s premier destination for good food and great wine. We invite you to indulge in one of our many winery experiences on oﬀer today.

Prosecco Lounge Enjoy exclusive use of our uniquely styled Prosecco Lounge for either Brunch or Lunch, both are all inclusive packages perfect for sharing with friends. Slow Lunch Relax, sit back, and join us in the slow lane for The Slow Lunch: a ‘feed-me’ style menu of our head chef’s favourite dishes, enjoyed with matched wines.

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Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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SOCIAL FOCUS

• Charles Haynes and Wally Batjens.

• Terry KIngston, Clara Farley and Sue Sedgwick.

• Ray Steadman and Mitch Sisley. • Mary Alle and Allen Archer.

• Henry and Heather Bimun.

• Dave Smith and Frank Trimble.

• Ian Land, John McCormack and Ian Cardwell.

• Ruth Martin and Colleen Davis.

RSL spreads Christmas joy to all THE Wangaratta RSL’s monthly veteran and family morning tea celebrated a Christmas theme on Tuesday with all those in attendance embracing the festive mood. The morning teas are held on the second Tuesday of each month. All ex-service personnel and families are welcome, for further information contact 0447 217 768.

• Bluey Bettles.

• Des Woods and Bernie McIntosh.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH 11:30 TO 2:30 December 25th for a full Christmas lunch, live music and friendship *CAN YOU HELP? Contact Jon: 0410669908

Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan St, Wangaratta 0410 669 908

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 21

O N UT O W

The ultimate guide for tourists and locals

TROTMAN

CAMBRIDGE

PHILLIPSON ST

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Addresses

Visited Ref.

10 Appin St

R F7

35 Irwin Ave

R F6

122 Appin St

R F4

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20 Batchelor Cres

R J12

1 Langlands St

R F6

8 Blake St

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10 Langlands St

R E6

7 Bowser Cres

R J8

14 Langtree Ave

R F6

33 Brodie St

R F5

18 Liddell Dr

R G12

34 Brodie St

R F5

87 Murdoch Rd

R K10

2 Burke St

R J9

1 O’Keeffe St

R J9

19 Burke St

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150 Orchard Dr

NOT ON MAP

2/115 Burke St

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39 Pin Oak Dr

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20 Corncob Blvd

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28 Red Gum Way

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90B Cribbes Rd

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26 Silver Wattle Dr R J13

67 Docker St

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63 Silver Wattle Dr R J13

13 Flanagan St

R J11

11/117-119 Swan St

R H5

8 Goodwin Ct

R E7

12 Thomson St

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81 Green St

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52 Trotman Dr

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95 Greta Rd

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20 Willow Dr

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12 Hallet Cres

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26 Woodland Grove R D2

13 Inchbold St

R K12

SWINBURNE DR

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AY MW

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Town Christmas Tree, Riverside Square

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O VE N S

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RE ID

Merriwa Park

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GRETA RD

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Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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REGIONAL NEWS

Riders deliver Christmas gifts

By BRODIE EVERIST

MOTORCYCLISTS from across the region donated over 200 gifts and more than $1000 to the Salvation Army in their annual toy run last Sunday, marking the 20th anniversary of the event. The riders gathered outside the Ovens Hotel at around 10am before a blessing by local Anglican priest Mother Moira Evers. Organiser David Hogg said they travelled along the Snow Road to Markwood, cut across to Wangaratta, rode to Tarrawingee and then to Beechworth. He said the hour-long ride got them to the Salvation Army hall in Beechworth a little early, where they enjoyed the airconditioning and the barbecue lunch. The event first started in Bright in 2003 and was later taken up by Mr Hogg and Trevor Botting. Mr Hogg said they even had two original members with them for the ride. “They’re quite rapt it’s going along and seems to be going strong again,” he said. “We want to push for a bigger and better one next year.” Before leaving on the journey Wangaratta rider Peter Gladstone told the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer the event embodied the spirit of Christmas. “This is what biking is all about,” he said. “Someone puts up their hand and says this will be a ride and everyone turns up.” Mr Gladstone was also embodying the spirit of Christmas by dressing as Santa Claus. He said he was “cooking” in the warm morning weather but was confident once he started riding the wind would cool him down.

A JOLLY JOURNEY: (From left) Wangaratta resident Peter Gladstone, and Corowa residents Reg and Mandy Clancy.

RIDIN’ TIME: Two riders taking off from Ovens.

South Wangaratta Medical Centre would like to wish everyone a

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RIDING FOR A CAUSE: (From left) Des Saunders, David Hogg, David Colyer, Trevor Isherwood and Blue Pagran.

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SEEYA: The riders left Ovens at around 10:30am on Sunday.

Community Bank Bright backs 50 local projects with $148k By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE COMMUNITY Bank Bright recently reflected on a generous year, with the local Bendigo Bank branch contributing $148,256 towards 50 projects, breaking their existing record of $110,231 for the 2020/21 financial year. The branch held its annual general meeting last month with manager Mark Ditcham thanking all involved for a successful year. Since opening in 2006, Community Bank Bright has returned over $780,000 to

the community, supporting local projects, groups and organisations. The bank has a giving model owned by local shareholders and overseen by a volunteer board who are committed to investing more than 80 per cent of profits back into the community. The AGM reflected on and celebrated the past 2022-23 financial year having seen the branch’s grants program contribute a record total of $148,256 towards 50 projects. Nash Thomas’ family was officially presented with the

2023 Stuart Hargreaves Youth development scholarship. Cooper Northy presented on the Alpine Cycling Club’s involvement with the SALT (Sport and Life Training) program on youth leadership and mental health, made possible through funding from the branch’s grants program. An upcoming project will see a partnership between Bright Rotary, TAFCO, Alpine Health, Alpine Shire, Community Bank Bright and local doctors, to deliver a mobile health bus facility initiative servicing local communities.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 25

REGIONAL NEWS

Wineries shine in challenge THE North East Victorian Wine Challenge was held at the Myrtleford Bowls Club last month after a four-year hiatus. The wine show celebrates the diversity of styles and varieties produced in the North East Victorian Wine Zone, which encompasses the Alpine Valleys, Beechworth, Glenrowan, King Valley and Rutherglen. According to event manager Alpine Valleys Vignerons, the wine challenge had a record 335 entries across 27 classes. Treasurer and secretary of Alpine Valleys Vignerons Bridget Phillips said support from each of the regional wine associations – Wines of the King Valley, Winemakers of Rutherglen, Glenrowan Vignerons and Beechworth Vignerons – and the collaboration between the regions, is integral to the show’s success. “There’s a lot of work that goes into the organisation of a wine show and the region’s wine producers have wholeheartedly supported this event, from entering their wines to attending committee meetings, rounding up sponsors and providing staff to help with stewarding, and the washing and polishing of glasses over the three days of judging,” she said.

WINE CONNOISSEURS: (From left) Brian Lewis of Greenacres Vineyard, who won TAFCO Viticulturist of the Year at the North East Victorian Wine Challenge, with Billy Button Wines’ chief winemaker and co-director Glenn James and senior winemaker Melissa Fettke, whose 2023 Pecorino won the TAFCO Wine of Show Trophy. PHOTO: Brodie Everist Wine writer, educator and presenter Jane Faulkner returned as chair of the judging panel. “I’ve witnessed this show not only grow, but flourish,” Ms Faulkner said. “The North East zones all have their strengths with an array of outstanding wines, and many have been on show this week.” Ms Faulkner said there were strong classes of tem-

the gold ones and ultimately the trophy winners.” The wine challenge culminated in a public tasting followed by the trophy presentation, where Billy Button Wines was awarded the TAFCO Wine of Show Trophy for their 2023 ‘Not the Cheese’ Pecorino. The wine also received the Best Wine of Region trophy, the Laffort Best White Table Wine Trophy and also Clas-

scene, including stewards and all the essential support staff, thank you. “You have ensured this little show has morphed into one of the best. “It is why it can attract the highest calibre of judges as it did this year. “Those outstanding judges were thoughtful, considered, thorough and worked diligently to seek out wines worthy of medals, especially

pranillo, chardonnay and shiraz amongst the record number of entries. “Each region is pushing boundaries with some producers creating different styles or interpretations of a particular variety or varieties, and all the while, the fine-tuning continues,” she said. “To all those who came on board from sponsors, exhibitors to those behind-the-

sic Oak Products Best Alternative White Wine Trophy. A Rodda Wines was awarded the Xcel Freight Wine of Provenance Trophy for their trio of tempranillo from the Aquilla Audax Vineyard. Other standout wines included the 2012 Cofield Provincial Black Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay and the 2021 Mayford Tempranillo. Brian Lewis of Greenacres Vineyard in Merriang South won TAFCO Viticulturist of the Year. The Alpine Valleys was awarded the Regional Shield, given to the wine region with the highest aggregate points. Alpine Valleys Vignerons president Stef Antonello said they appreciated the support received from local and wine industry sponsors. “We’re still in a rebuilding phase, getting this show back up and running after a few years off, and their support was absolutely essential for a successful event,” Mr Antonello said. “We’re really building on the momentum of the attention that this region has been receiving, not only within the wine community for the diverse and quality wines we are producing, but from the greater region as a vibrant year-round wine tourism destination.”

GREEN STREET BRIDGE DETOUR WANGARATTA DETOUR MAP Green Street bridge will close from 8 January 2024 for approximately six months until Inland Rail works are safely completed.

Pedestrian detour B

St Rowa

St Swan

o n St

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Gree

n St

Rowan

id St

en Ov

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SHOPFRONT CLOSURE Our shopfront is closed and will reopen on Thursday 18 January 2024

Get in touch or book an appointment by:

1800 732 761

l ey

rb Wa

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Norto

Greta R

Want more information or have questions, the team will be at the corner of Murphy and Reid streets on Wednesday 20 December 11am-1pm.

Traffic detour A

During construction detours will be in place for both vehicles and pedestrians. Vehicles will be detoured via SisHOy Avenue or Rowan Street, and pedestrians via One Mile Creek bike path or Docker Street footbridge.

Pedestrian detour A

Traffic detour B

Phillips

To enable the safe clearance of double-stacked freight trains, we’re replacing the existing bridge with a new bridge in the same location.

Road closed

Green Street bridge Northeast Health Wangaratta Sisely Avenue Level Crossing Wangaratta Station Wareena Park

victoriaprojects@artc.com.au

inlandrail.com.au/b2a

Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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REGIONAL NEWS

Wastewater treatment plant upgrade to support region A MAJOR $73 million upgrade to Wodonga’s wastewater treatment plant will start early next year, and will provide wastewater security for the City of Wodonga and surrounds beyond 2045. The project, expected to be completed by the end of 2025, will also produce biogas for energy, cut carbon emissions at the treatment plant by more than 50 per cent and lay the foundations for future circular economy opportunities with local industry near the site. North East Water chair, Stephen Brown, said he was pleased to announce the contract for construction had been awarded to commercial builders Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd, partnering with CCB Envico Pty Ltd and LC Water Pty Ltd, to deliver the project over the next two years. “Combined, all companies bring a strong track record in the successful delivery of large infrastructure and wastewater treatment projects in Victoria,” he said. “This project is absolutely essential for our region, specifically designed to address anticipated industrial and residential growth, leading to significant economic and environmental benefits. “The project demonstrates

our commitment to improving services to support housing development and industry growth supporting regional employment opportunities. “We estimate during the construction period, the project will directly support the equivalent of 16 fulltime jobs and require the sustained participation of over 50 local trades’ people and suppliers over the two-year project duration.” North East Water managing director Jo Murdoch said the exciting and innovative upgrade would transform the Corporation’s largest waste processing plant into a revitalised “resource recovery hub”. “The new infrastructure will redirect high strength industrial wastewater through a more energy and cost efficient, covered anaerobic treatment process, capturing biogas, freeing up capacity within the existing treatment facilities for residential growth,” she said. “The biogas will be turned into renewable energy to power the plant or contribute to the electricity grid, offsetting energy use at other North East Water sites. “With the improved efficiencies at the plant, it will lead to reduced energy and operational costs, ultimately

BUILDING UP: A major $73 million upgrade to Wodonga’s wastewater treatment plant is expected to provide wastewater security for Wodonga and the region. helping to keep our customers’ bills low. “The upgrade supports the future expansion plans of major commercial customers in Wodonga, ensuring the growth capability of some of the region’s largest employers.” The completed project will also complement North East

Water’s nearby solar farm, which provides renewable electricity to power the treatment plant, along with a planned $53.1 million renewable hydrogen facility constructed adjacent to the site by Australian Gas Infrastructure Group. Future circular economy synergies between the renewable hydrogen facility are

being explored including the provision of biogas, enriched oxygen and recycled water. The wastewater treatment upgrade will significantly contribute to North East Water’s commitment to be 100 per cent renewable by 2025 and net-zero carbon by 2035.

No position yet on Dederang BESS: Council By BRODIE EVERIST THE Alpine Shire Council has no formal position on the Dederang battery energy storage system (BESS) proposal, council chief executive officer Will Jeremy confirmed at their November meeting. The proposal, developed by renewable energy company Mint Renewables, is for a BESS with an indicative capacity of 400 megawatt hours (MWh) with a possible four-hectare footprint beside the Dederang Terminal Station. Mr Jeremy said councillors and council staff are still seeking information on the proposal. Councillors said they welcomed feedback they had received from the public on the battery proposal. Cr Forsyth acknowledged concerns raised over the location of the project. “We’re just waiting on more information, as Mr Jeremy said, with Mint and what they are proposing and whether or not we can strongly advocate to the minister at the state level regarding the siting of the BESS,” Cr Forsyth said. The project was the subject of a community meeting in Dederang last month attended by Cr Forsyth, Cr Kelli Prime and council’s director of assets Alan Rees.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 27

REGIONAL NEWS

Habitat revegetation for the mountain pygmy possum VAIL Resorts’ staff at Falls Creek have been busy this week planting native habitat to support the local population of endangered mountain pygmy possums. There are believed to be fewer than 2000 of the small native possums left in the wild. The tiny possum is Australia’s only hibernating marsupial, living among the rocks and boulders of the Bogong High Plains for up to seven months each year. As part of their efforts to support the roll out of Falls Creek Alpine Resort’s mountain pygmy possum habitat improvement project, Vail staff have been planting 500 small native plants around a historic quarry in the ski field, just below Pretty Valley Road. This location near Ruined Castle chairlift was selected by biologist, Dean Heinze, as an area of importance for maintaining

suitable habitat into the future. The possum population in this area and out at Mt McKay are surveyed each year by the same biologist to inform the long-term management of this threatened species. So far 3492 plants have been planted since the project commenced in 2021. The additional 500 plants going in the ground this week have been provided thanks to funding from Zoos Victoria’s Totes for Wildlife Program. The week’s habitat revegetation project is helping to infill the slow natural shrub growth at the historically damaged quarry site. This will improve connectivity for the mountain pygmy possum, provide valuable shelter from predators, and increase food resources to replace the now scarce Bogong Moth.

NATIVE MISSION: Vail Resorts’ staff at Falls Creek have been busy planting native plants to help restore habitat for the endangered mountain pygmy possum population. PHOTO: Vail Resorts

Easier access to alpine resorts

ALPINE Resorts Victoria (ARV) has secured a $550,000 grant through the Victorian Government’s Visitor Servicing Fund to develop a ‘onestop’ digital platform for visitors to Victoria’s six alpine resorts. According to ARV, the funding supports a $1 million project that will streamline resort entry sales, and provide real-time insights on weather,

roads and car parking conditions. From a single platform guests will be able to make travel plans based on live resort information and book online entry permits for the resort of their choice. “The new digital platform will offer an innovative technology driven solution that will make a real difference to trip planning for visitors,

resorts have experienced record winter visitation levels in recent years, with years of investment in new methods for managing ski fields ensuring visitors enjoy longer, more consistent seasons. The platform will improve the arrival experience of guests by assisting visitors in dispersing across the Victorian resorts and improve safety with the provision of

especially those new to the alpine experience,” ARV chief executive officer Amber Gardner said. “Through this project we are looking at how we can access real-time information about resort entry purchases and subsequent access and capacity, better enabling us to adapt operations to reflect current visitation levels.” According to ARV, alpine

Greta Dwyer 95.2

resort-specific safety information. “The benefit of the amalgamated resort system is that we can now help guests access the best of every resort and ensure a streamlined visitor experience from planning and research through to their arrival on the mountain,” Ms Gardner said. Member for Northern

Lauren McInnes 94.75

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Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced the grant under stream B of the Visitor Servicing Fund last month. “The fund will help to connect visitors to the alpine region’s attractions, local businesses and encourage them to spend more and stay longer by providing high-quality, personalised and timely information about what to see and do,” Ms Symes said.

Chiara Lestino 94.6

Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Ever reliable Cliff decides to give up the driver’s seat BY SHANE DOUTHIE

sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

IDDEN behind a steering wheel is a man who dedicates his free time to helping people with disabilities. Going the extra mile for the past 18 years, Cliff Wolstenholme has been transporting Merriwa employees to and from work safe and on time. Cliff has generously given up his time four days a week since 2005 travelling up to 800km per week. Chief executive officer Bart Crawley said Cliff had played a massive role at Merriwa in his almost two decades of service. “Without Cliff, Merriwa employees may not be able to work, which is important for their financial freedom, a sense of community, and independence,” he said. “Cliff is not only a friendly face, but also a person to be counted on. “We are enormously grateful for Cliff ’s hard work and dedication to Merriwa industries and wish him every success in his retirement.” Originally a sheet metal worker for Sinclair and Powell in Wangaratta and then Rota Industries when they took over the business, he was retrenched after 33 years. Cliff also had heart surgery and despite applying for countless jobs, his health history appeared to torpedo any permanent positions. “I applied for jobs but noone would ever get back to me,” he said. Cliff was then given the option to work as a volunteer and be able to collect social security benefits which led him to drive for Ovens and King

 HAPPY TRAILS: Cliﬀ Wolstenholme has been in the driver’s seat at Merriwa Wangaratta Wangar for 18 years year and is set to retire ret this Christmas. Chr

Cliff Wolstenholme set to retire after 18 years behind the wheel for Merriwa

  ALL ABOARD: Cliﬀ Wolstenholme (left) with regular passnegrs from Merriwa Lauran Vallender, Ellio McCallum and Tanya Berger.

Community Services. “We used to do a few trips back then for Merriwa but when that folded Ruth Belan asked a couple of us to do a few runs for Merriwa from Benalla and here I am still.” Cliﬀ said commitment was a major part of his role as a bus driver, a personality trait he has shown his entire working life. He does two trips a day, 7am to 8.30am and 3pm to 4.30pm four days a week. “That’s just the way it was, I had a family to raise

and stayed with the same job back then, not get a new one every year like they do now. “But I enjoy it at Merriwa, I love driving and I’ve met some really nice people and had a lot of laughs. “If I wrote a book they’d lock me up I reckon with all the fun we’ve had.” “I’d recommend this job to anyone, as long as you have the commitment and enjoy driving and meeting all types of people.” Cliﬀ said he will still have

plenty on his plate once he steps out of the driver’s seat including his role at OAKFM where he has been a volunteer for almost 30 years. “I do a lot of the production work there, and also the history segment which has to be researched and produced everyday. “And when the footy’s on it’s very busy on the production side of things. “I also do maintenance and just a general dog’s body around the place.”

You can catch Cliﬀ ’s history segment on OAKFM at 9.15am and 12.30pm Monday to Sunday. He still finds time to be a volunteer visitor at Rangeview where he spends about an hour a fortnight. “They match you up with someone of similar age or interests; a lot of blokes there don’t get many visitors so it’s good to go and have a chat with them,” Cliﬀ said. “I would recommend that to other people who have some time on their hands,

they can organise times to suit you and you can really make a difference in someone’s life.” Cliff said he has always been an active person and will continue to be in retirement which officially begins after his last day of work at Merriwa in December 21. “You’ve got to get out of bed for something,” he said. “Although it will be nice to stay in bed a bit longer now, especially during the winter.”

Merriwa is still on the hunt for Cliff’s replacement! Could it be you? What’s Involved? Daily pick up and drop off in Benalla, to and from Merriwa in Wangaratta. 7am - 8.30am & 3pm-4.30pm. Vehicle provided.

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Responsibility

Integrity

Diversity

Excellence

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 29

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Prosperity

Responsibility

Integrity

CEO Update When I think of Christmas what brings me joy and happiness is spending time with family and being grateful to have people in my life who love me. Unfortunately, the festive season has been hijacked by big business, with a focus on the giving of material gifts to drive sales and ˜ˡ˖˥˘˔˦˘ Ёˡ˔ˡ˖˜˔˟ ˥˘˧˨˥ˡ˦ ˧ˢ ˦˛˔˥˘˛ˢ˟˗˘˥˦ʡ Christmas is not about that, Christmas is about showing kindness, caring, and connecting with those who are important in our lives. This festive season this year is going to be particularly challenging with

time!! s a

Its Ch ris t

the increased cost of living impacting so many. I ask you to take the time to reach out to someone who you know is struggling, show a little kindness, and experience the joy of true giving. A special thanks to all our amazing team at Merriwa, it has been a busy and challenging year, and your hard work, dedication and commitment is inspiring. On behalf of the Board and Senior Leadership team, we wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas, take care, and see you in 2024.

Diversity

Excellence

Ian Promotes ‘Safety First’ to Merriwa New team member and rugby fan Ian Cartwright joins the Merriwa family as our new Safety Manager. Born in Sydney, Ian moved to the border in 2010 to escape the busy “rat race” of the city, settling on a property with a few acres at Tabletop in Albury. On his days off Ian likes to watch the V8 super cars, Rugby League and Rugby Union. Ian likes to cheer on his two favourite teams: West Tigers (League) and the Brumbies (Union). Ian’s role is to oversee all safety and compliance at Wangaratta and Wodonga sites to ensure Merriwa is a ‘Safety First’ environment. Ian was asked what he enjoys about working for Merriwa. “I enjoy working with the safety team across all the plants, I have two good

guys, Ben and Brad who report to me and both are supported employees. They’re fun to work with, take everything on board and are learning new skills from me. I’m mentoring them so one day they can take over from me”. Ian promotes having a good rapport with all staff, building trust and connections while getting to know everyone in each division. Building a strong foundation through workplace relationships helps Ian be approachable for staff to come to him with safety issues. “By being present and observing on the line you can gain an understanding of the work and injury prevention.”

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Work pla c

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The Freedom of Independent Living Matt and Philip

nd Indepe Prosperity

Responsibility

Diamond Dot At The Show Gleaming gems, delicate precision and a steady hand. Merriwa’s team member Alison Homles has patience and a keen eye, entering her Diamond Art or “Diamond Dot” as Alison affectionally calls it, in this year’s Wangaratta Show. Alison has created over forty pieces, that consist of a variety of animals ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ ˖ˢ˖˞˔˧˜˘˟˦ʟ ˨ˡ˜˖ˢ˥ˡ˦ʟ ˕˨˧˧˘˥Ђ˜˘˦ʟ parrots, cats, dogs and Disney favourites, Micky Mouse and Minnie Mouse. She works on her “Diamond Dot” for a few hours in the afternoon as an outlet to decompress after a long day. Other times she works on her craft outside enjoying the afternoon

d Do t n o am i D

Integrity

sun, with pieces taking several weeks to complete. Alison was asked how she feels about entering four pieces into this year’s ˊ˔ˡ˚˔˥˔˧˧˔ ˦˛ˢ˪ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘ Ё˥˦˧ ˧˜ˠ˘ʡ “I was very excited but also very ˔ˡ˫˜ˢ˨˦ ˕˨˧ ˛ˢˣ˜ˡ˚ ˙ˢ˥ ˔ Ё˥˦˧ʟ ˦˘˖ˢˡ˗ʟ or third prize. “I love to show people my Diamond Dot.” Diamond Art is a fantastic way to melt away stress and anxiety. Working on Diamond Art in a peaceful environment can be considered a mindfulnessbased art therapy to improve mood, boost creativity and build motor skills. Best of all it’s a craft for all skill levels.

orkplace R W t e

s ion at

comes with a feeling of excitement and independence, followed by the chance to learn new skills. Matt and Philip are currently learning life skills from their carers who come to the house six days a week. Life skills include cooking, laundry, cleaning, meal planning and weekly trips to buy groceries. Matt Whisson said: “We learned how to clean things like ˠˢˣˣ˜ˡ˚ Ђˢˢ˥˦ʟ ˨˦˘ ˧˛˘ ˖˟ˢ˧˛˘˦˟˜ˡ˘ʟ ˪˘ do cooking, put dishes away that kind of thing”. Before moving to Wangaratta, Matt and Philip both lived with their families and would catch a bus and a taxi to work. Exhausted after working a full shift, they had to use public transport to get home again, making for a long day travelling every week. We congratulate Matt and Philip on the achievement to live independently.

Creati

Merriwa’s own dynamic duo Matthew Whisson and Philip Neer aren’t just work mates but are roommates too. These Corowa guys are embracing independent living and have recently moved into their own place, a unit in Wangaratta. ˇ˛˘ ˙˥˜˘ˡ˗˦ Ё˥˦˧ ˠ˘˧ ˔˧ ˀ˘˥˥˜˪˔ ˔ˡ˗ ˤ˨˜˖˞˟ˬ became friends by having common interests such as the love for horror and comedy movies, as well as the love of a good alcoholic beverage. These friends are very involved with participating in their new community and can be found out and about at the local pub, Cinema Centre and more. Philip Neer said “Fridays when I’m not working, a carer comes and takes me bowling and Saturday I go to pottery. On Sundays no one’s there so me and Matt get Ё˦˛ ˔ˡ˗ ˖˛˜ˣ˦ ˢ˥ ˣ˜˭˭˔ϡʡ Like most people, moving in on their own

Diversity

Excellence

Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

$2m projects to see college consolidate Friday, December 13, 2013 By SIMONE KERWIN THREE major building projects worth a combined $2 million will be carried out next year, as Cathedral College’s Murdoch Road base is further primed to become the school’s sole campus from 2015. Principal Adrian Farrer said the school had received approval for a new $1.67 million arts centre, a $1 million middle school area, and $300,000 in car park works, which would be developed over the course of 2014. The school’s gradual movement towards Murdoch Road has also freed up 39 Ovens Street, part of the original campus in The Close, to become part of a new regional base for Anglicare and other compatible groups and agencies. Mr Farrer said the school would vacate 39 Ovens Street on the last day of the current school year. And Wangaratta diocese Vicar General John Davis said it was planned to use this building, along with the adjoining former tennis court area, to develop a $400,000 service delivery centre incorporating Anglicare, Loaves and Fishes Christians Caring, and groups including the North East Multilcultural Association. He said the project had been in the planning stage for a year, and pending council approval it was hoped work would start at the close of the school year, ready for a mid-May opening. “It’s very exciting; with Ovens and King Community Health at the other end of Ovens Street, and the Department of

10 years ago BRIGHT FUTURE: Cathedral College school council chairperson Mike Noble (left) and principal Adrian Farrer look over plans for building projects at the Murdoch Road campus. PHOTO: Luke Plummer Human Services and Centrelink within five minutes’ walk, it makes for a good service precinct,” he said. Meanwhile, Cathedral College will have four school buildings still operating at The Close campus in 2014. “We will still have a full VCE campus, but will be starting to skill up Murdoch Road so years 11 and 12 can move in,” Mr Farrer said. Mr Farrer said future plans for the Murdoch Road campus also included development of a football oval and, in 2015, a gym.

“For some years, we have been keen to make this happen, and now the growth of the school has allowed it to occur,” he said. Mr Farrer said the college’s links with the Anglican Schools Commission had been a key, enabling the school to take out low interest loans “so we can do works we wouldn’t otherwise be able to do”. And by 2015, Cathedral College’s increasing enrolment is expected to spill over 400 – a far cry from its first days at The Close 10 years ago. “We will definitely be sad to see

WE ARE HIRING!

The Close campus go, as it has been home to many, many students,” Mr Farrer said. “I have a lot of admiration for the people who built the school the way they did. “But in moving to one campus in Murdoch Road, we will get the benefits of knowing where our home is, and being part of long-term growth.” Mr Farrer said the school’s master plan mapped out the next 10 years of its development in state-of-the-art, purpose-built structures.

State grants for creative projects LOCAL artists and creatives are invited to apply to the Victorian Government’s Creative Projects Fund. The program supports independent artists and creative workers to build their skills and careers, develop new creative work and experiences, and take them to local, national or international audiences and markets. Grants of $5000 to $20,000 are available to Victorian professional artists, creative practitioners, collectives, groups and organisations working in all creative disciplines – from design to dance, fashion to film, theatre, augmented and virtual technologies, visual art, music, literature and more. In 2022, the first round of the program supported more than 100 creative projects statewide which have collectively employed 896 individuals – including providing an important boost to creative professionals in early stages of their careers. The fund includes dedicated streams for First Peoples and deaf and disabled applicants. Applications are now open and will close at 3pm on February 1 2024. For more information or to apply, visit creative.vic.gov. au/funding-opportunities.

ÂȉɷɆȉʟȉʰʰȉ ɫʹȥ ¢ʟȉȬɔɷɆ Eʁʹʟʦ

1ST YR PLUMBING APPRENTICE

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We are currently looking to hire a 1st Year Plumbing Apprentice. We are after an enthusiastic, punctual, and motivated candidate to join our growing team. Earn while you learn! Receive support, mentoring & on the job training! Work alongside trade-qualified staff while learning a trade. Gain a nationally recognised qualification. THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT WILL HAVE: Manual driver's license Willingness to complete the Apprenticeship. HOW TO APPLY To apply, please BRING your resume into our showroom at 17-19 Muntz Street, Wangaratta. Applications Close: 5pm Friday, 1st Dec 2023

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december 15 - 21 | 2023

Family home in Waldara with immaculate shedding LOCATED in Talgai Drive, Waldara, set on a 6365m2 allotment, this property boasts a newly renovated brick veneer home with immaculate new shedding. This four-bedroom home comprises a master bedroom featuring ensuite with separate shower and toilet along with BIR, and the three additional bedrooms are all fitted with BIR’s and ceiling fans. The kitchen has been newly renovated featuring new cabinetry, stone benchtops, walk in pantry, elec oven

and gas cooktop. The open plan kitchen living/dining space is a great size along with separate lounge/kids room, and the home also has new floor coverings, new painting and new electrical lights/ceiling fans. The main bathroom has separate shower and bath with second WC. Step outside and entertain your guests with an alfresco area all finished with concrete overlooking manicured lawns. The property is blessed with mature established trees and large lawn area,

perfect for someone needing the extra space, still within close proximity to Wangaratta’s CBD. Lawns are watered with in ground irrigation all fed from the property’s bore. If shedding is important to you then look no further, as this property has your storage needs covered with a double garage shed (6mx8.7m) and large workshop storage shed (12mx18m) perfect for the boat, caravan etc. The large shed is also fitted with an impressive fireplace/pizza oven.

Be part of making the festive season not just better, but brighter. By donating food or funds for our Festive Food Drive at our Reid Street, Wangaratta branch.

Hume Bank Limited ABN 85 051 868 556. AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

Supporting Albury Wodonga Regional FoodShare and Carevan Albury.

Agent

| Nutrien Harcourts

Phone

| 5722 9444

Price

| $1,135,000

Location | 17 Talgai Drive, Waldara

At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au IS YOUR ELECTRICAL TEST AND TAGGING CURRENTLY DUE?

WE ALSO OFFER FIRE MAINTENANCE SERVICES CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE Peter Benne 0400 357 722 peter.benne@thelocalguys.com.au www.thelocalguystestandtag.com.au

THIS unique Hamilton Park lifestyle property occupying an elevated position capturing uninterrupted mountain views could be yours.. It is perfectly set amongst established leafy garden surrounds and situated on a spacious 3422m2 allotment. This sizable brick veneer home offers a versatile ﬂoor plan ideal for many living options for any buyers looking for space. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living areas along with meals area and second dining offers room for all the family. The central kitchen has been updated with electric cooktop, dishwasher and a stainless wall oven. The primary bedroom offers a renovated ensuite and a walk in robe, whilst two further guestrooms are generous in size serviced by the central bathroom. Further enhancing the property is the fully self-contained unit, providing the

Building Design Interior Design Structural Engineering Soil Reports + Site Classification Surveys, Site Plans + Setouts Land Capability Assessments Bushfire Management Reports

PROJECT ENQUIRIES

Hamilton Park lifestyle

www.tayloreng.com.au enquiry@tayloreng.com.au 03 5753 6607 Mansfield, VIC 3722

Agent

| Nutrien Harcourts

Phone

| 5722 9444

Price

| $805,000

Location | 5 Kingﬁsher Lane, Glenrowan home with an additional living space, bedroom and ensuite. Maintaining the perfect climate inside is made easy with a wood burning heater, ducted heating/cooling, ceiling fans and a split system. The rear yard is an ideal size for entertaining, featuring an inground pool with no compromise on privacy and seclusion.

Join us at the top

Win Securities Ltd Ltd 43 Reid Street Street 37 Wangaratta Wangaratta 3677 223 ACN 007 346 223 240901 ACL No. 240901 info@winsec.com.au info@winsec.com.au www.wins ec.com.au www.winsec.com.au

Let your local accredited home loan broker Tony Ruvolo and his team help find the right loan for you!

5721 5200

Your trusted real estate agent 5722 1428 Level 1, 40 Reid St, Wangaratta apex@email.propertyme.com

VOLVO XC60, PLENTY TO SAY . . . MOSTLY GOOD

■ LUXURY ITEM: The refreshed Volvo XC60 continues to hold its place high in the mid-size premium SUV market

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring WHAT’S in a name? Plenty for Volvo, the SinoSwedish car maker with its new mid-size luxury SUV, the XC60, tagged with a string of descriptors to separate each model from one another. Take, for example our test vehicle, the Volvo XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright: phew! And that mouthful comes without mentioning vital specifications such as the powertrain – in this case two-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine, plus eight-speed automatic transmission and allwheel drive. ‘Ultimate’ relates to the trim level, B5 to the engine, a turbocharged petrol motor enhanced by a standard 48V mild hybrid system to achieve higher fuel economy and lower emissions, while ‘Bright’ (or ‘Dark’) refers to core design elements. While Volvo is now owned by Geely Automobile, a major automotive brand based in China, the XC60 exhibits sleek Scandinavian styling, efficient four-cylinder engines and quality cabin ambiance. Range-topping Ultimate trim gets matrix LED headlights, 20in alloy wheels, adaptive dampers, air suspension, a head-up display, a powered passenger’s seat, power-folding rear headrests and a panoramic roof. While Volvo was initially slow to catch up, a move to a longer five-year warranty and fixedprice servicing puts the XC60 on a par with the opposition.

STYLING Apart from the Volvo front grille and Thor’s Hammer headlamp display, the XC60 Ultimate is pretty much out of the standard premium SUV catalogue design-wise. For example, the vehicle shows off pleasing, if not striking, dimensions from all directions. The Bright theme of the test vehicle is standard, keeping the same exterior elements as the core model while the Dark theme, offered at no extra cost, gives new Volvo vehicles a sportier appearance inspired by the former R-Design model by replacing the chrome accents with black elements and making way for a more aggressive stance.

Verdict: tactile and easy to operate, it also works well in the Aussie sub-tropical environment.

INTERIOR With its ‘driftwood décor’ inlay inspired by the natural forces of water, wind and waves, the XC60 is a genuine ﬁveseater, with optional Nappa leather accented front seats including seat ventilation and optional ten-point massage. A panoramic sun roof allows natural light to ﬂood in, creating a feeling of space for everyone in the cabin. A word about the gearshift. Situated on the centre console it’s hard to ignore this genuine work of art. A product of Swedish crystal glass manufacturer Orrefors, according to Volvo, it’s all about capturing light to produce a warm feeling for the user more used to freezing weather conditions.

SAFETY Volvo has built its brand on being a leader in vehicle safety – it developed the three-point lap/sash seat belt and shared it around, for example - so it’s no surprise that XC60 safety is ﬁve stars. Features include assisted cruise control, auto braking and parking, lane assist, blind spot alert and rear parking camera. A head-up display delivers speed, turn-by-turn navigation, and more. The brightness of the display adapts automatically to light conditions and can be set to suit personal preferences.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS Since 2013, Volvo Cars petrol and diesel engines for most markets around the world have been made at their Skövde, Sweden, facility. Asian-market Volvo cars have had their engines produced at the Zhangjiakou, China, plant since 2016. The latter is the case for the XC60 in Australia with a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 183 kW of peak power at 5400 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1800 rpm via an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels.

DRIVING Settling in to any of the ﬁve seats on offer in the Volvo XC60 can be achieved with the

minimum of fuss, none requiring a tall step up as in some SUVs. Shoulder space and leg room also are up in class. Firing the engine requires a turn of a centre-console situated switch, and it’s the same process for shutting it down. It’s a repeat to shut off the motor. Typically, of a Volvo, the XC60 offers comfortable, quiet and smooth riding, from the stop / start city commute to motorway cruising. The mild hybrid system unnoticeably doing its bit for added performance. Expect the XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright MHEV to use close to 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres of premium unleaded petrol in the combined urban / highway cycle while putting out 174g of carbon dioxide. The car’s active chassis with air suspension constantly adjusts ride height and adapts the shock absorbers to enhance stability and deliver a dynamic and reﬁned ride with maximum energy efficiency at high speeds. And on demand, Off Road mode can increase ground clearance. Steering, especially, provided positive feedback, while braking – ventilated disc front and rear - chipped in with the beneﬁt of ‘B’ mode, harnessing engine braking to feed off kinetic energy produced when the foot is off the brake. Additionally, creep feature can help at low speed, for example in traffic queues or car parks.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE: VOLVO XC60 PLUS B5: $72,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE B5 BRIGHT: $79,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE B6 DARK: $86,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE T8 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID: $101,990 NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Volvo dealer for drive-away prices.

When active, the car moves slowly without use of the accelerator pedal. SUMMARY While the XC60 is well advanced with present-day automotive technology, it’s worth remembering that Volvo aims to go fully electric in Australia by 2026, four years before it does in the rest of the world. While the award-winning luxury mid-size SUV deserves a look now, it may be worth waiting to greet the new era. RATINGS Looks: 8/10 Performance: 6/10 Safety: 7/10 Thirst: 6/10 Practicality: 7/10 Comfort: 8/10 Tech: 7/10 Value: 7/10 SPECIFICATIONS (Volvo XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder petrol, 8sp automatic, AWD SUV)

ENGINE: Capacity: 1.969 litres Conﬁguration: Four cylinders inline Maximum Power: 183 kW @ 5400 rpm Maximum Torque: 350 Nm @ 1800 rpm Fuel Type: Premium unleaded petrol Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.6 L/100km Emissions CO2: 174 g/km DRIVELINE: Eight-speed automatic, allwheel drive DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES: Length: 4708 mm Wheelbase: 2865 mm Width: 1902 mm Height: 1653 mm Turning Circle: 11.4 metres Kerb Mass: 1830 kg Fuel Tank Capacity: 71 litres STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres

Page 34 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Rural City Connection Friday 15 December 2023

Public notices

Community Engagement Opportunities

Planning and Environment Act 1987 WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME Notice of Approval of Amendment Amendment C80wang The Minister for Planning has approved Amendment C80wang to the Wangaratta Planning Scheme. The Amendment comes into operation on the date this notice is published in the Victoria Government Gazette. The Amendment implements the Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the Wangaratta Central Activities Area (CAA), by amending Clause 11.031L in the Planning Policy Framework, replacing Schedule 1 to Clause 43.02 (Design and Development Overlay) and updating the Schedule to Clause 72.08 (Background Documents). A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the Department of Transport and Planning website at www.planning.vic. gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the Amendment. A copy of the Amendment can also be inspected, free of charge, during office hours, at the offices of the Wangaratta 3VSBM $JUZ $PVODJM (PWFSONFOU $FOUSF m 0WFOT Street, or at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Kerbside Bin Collection Over the Public Holidays

To have your say on the following policies please visit Connect Wangaratta www.connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au or visit our website.

There will be changes to kerbside bin collections over the Christmas period. If your general waste and/ or organics kerbside bin collection day is Monday 25 December (Christmas Day), please note the following changes: r (FOFSBM XBTUF SFE CJO 0SHBOJDT HSFFO CJO XJMM CF collected on Saturday 23 December. Council is asking residents to leave general waste and/or organics bins out for collection the evening prior on Friday 22 December. r 3FDZDMJOH ZFMMPX CJO DPMMFDUJPO EBZ JT .POEBZ (Christmas Day) this will be collected as normal on Monday. r *G ZPVS OPSNBM CJO DPMMFDUJPO EBZ GBMMT CFUXFFO Tuesday 26 December and Friday 29 December, please put your bin out as usual and leave it out until collected. r $PMMFDUJPOT XJMM SFTVNF BT OPSNBM GSPN .POEBZ TU January 2024. 7JTJU UIF 4FSWJDFT 8BTUF 3FDZDMJOH QBHF PG PVS XFCTJUF for more information.

Draft Gambling Policy and Gambling Action Plan The policy outlines Council’s future approach to protecting the Wangaratta community from gambling harm. The Policy also forms Council’s position on gambling and will guide Council’s roles and responsibilities in relation to all GPSNT PG HBNCMJOH XJUIJO UIF 3VSBM $JUZ PG 8BOHBSBUUB Submissions close 31 January 2024.

Stuart Menzies, Director, State Planning Services, Department of Transport and Planning

Christmas and New Year Hours Council will be closed between 3pm Friday 22 December and 8.30am Tuesday 2 January 2024.

Bush Boogie Put on your dancing boots and join us for an unforgettable night of fun. There will be a live DJ, Junkyard beats, country dances, a photobooth, lawn HBNFT BOE CFTU PG BMM '3&& GPPE 5IJT JT B :PVUI FWFOU CVU BMM BHFT XFMDPNF $IJMESFO VOEFS NVTU CF accompanied by an adult. Friday 15 December, 6 - 9 PM %SFTT $PEF &NCSBDF ZPVS 5BDLZ 8BDLZ TJEF m UIF XJMEFS UIF CFUUFS 3FNFM 8IPSPVMZ 3E 8IPSPVMZ 5IJT YACVIC funded event is drug, alcohol, vape, and smoke free. Ensuring a safe and fun environment for everyone.

Wangaratta Transfer Station will be closed Christmas Day, Monday 25 December, and will reopen at 10am Tuesday 26 December. Markwood and Eldorado Transfer Stations will be open Sunday 24 December. If your matter is urgent, please visit https://www. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Contact-us. For after-hours emergency assistance, including dangerous road conditions, trees over roads, livestock on roads or animals at large, call 03 5722 8102.

2024/2025 Budget – Have Your Say We’re seeking community input to help us shape the 2024/25 budget. Each year council prepares an annual budget which enables us to manage and deliver our 50 plus services as well as invest in works like roads, footpaths, community facilities and other infrastructure. What should we fund next financial year. Submissions close 25 January 2024.

For all other services including Children’s Services Centre, Library, Ned Kelly Discovery Hub, Wangaratta Art Gallery, WPACC, and WSAC, please visit our website.

Positions vacant

Chocolate Starﬁsh headline a New Year’s Eve event not to be missed! They will be supported by soul band That Gold Street Sound, local legends Scott & Amanda, and Asha Bright a rising star from Beechworth. You will find activities to keep the whole family entertained: fireworks, inflatables, laser tag, rock climbing, face painting, hair braiding, and more. This is set to be an EPIC experience for all attendees. Free, no tickets required. Smoke, vape & drug free, strictly no glass or BYO alcohol. Service animals only, no pets. Event starts 5:30pm 31 December 2023.

Recreation & Open Space Strategy 3FDSFBUJPO QMBZT B QBSU JO PVS MJWFT XIFUIFS JUT PSHBOJTFE sport, walking a pet, or swimming in Wangaratta’s beautiful rivers. As a part of Council’s commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to be active and connected through sport and recreation, we’ve developed a Draft 3FDSFBUJPO BOE 0QFO TQBDF 4USBUFHZ BOE XF E love your feedback. Submissions close 15 February 2024.

Gallery Ofﬁcer Child Care Educator Level 2 Child Care Educator Level 3 Child Care Educator Level 2 Childrens Services - Administration Team Leader Community Care Worker Domestic Care Worker Aquatic Education Instructor Aquatic Education Instructor - Schools Group Fitness Instructor Gym Instructor Personal Trainer Lifeguard PAC Theatre Technician Supervisor - Front of House Waste Services Operator Maternal Child Health Nurse Media & Communications Coordinator Marketing & Communications Lead Technician Production Traineeship For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers.

Contact your Councillors

Dean Rees

Mayor 0429 623 141 d.rees@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harvey Benton

Deputy Mayor 0429 542 928

h.benton@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Ashlee Fitzpatrick

City Ward 0448 384 600 a.fitzpatrick@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

David Fuller

City Ward 0429 545 907 d.fuller@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Irene Grant

Harry Bussell

Warby Ward 0428 189 249 i.grant@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

South Ward 0429 475 863 h.bussell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Council Contact Details 03 5722 0888 council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au Wangaratta Government Centre Cnr Ford & Ovens Streets Wangaratta 3677 PO Box 238, Wangaratta, VIC 3676. Open - Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm Closed - Public Holidays

Jack Herry

City Ward 0400 669 615 j.herry@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 35

IN PERSON BY PHONE BY EMAIL 37 Rowan Street, classifieds@ 5723 0101 Wangaratta nemedia.com.au 3677

WHEN TO BOOK

Chronicle Classifieds 2pm business day prior to print North East Jobs 3pm Friday OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

SELLING A CAR

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

from $42

BUY ONLINE

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au Employment: northeastjobs.com.au Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICES

Publications s and deadlines over the e Christmas s ear period! New Ye Publication date:

&ODVVL²HGV deadline:

Friday, December 22

Thursday, December 21, 2pm

Friday, December 29

Thursday, December 28, 2pm

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Tuesday, January 2, 2024, 2pm

Office Hours: Open: Weekdays 9am – 5pm Closed: Friday, Dec 22

Monday, Dec 25 Tuesday, Dec 26 Wednesday, Dec 27 Friday, Dec 29 Monday, Jan 1, 2024 We would like to wish all our advertisers and readers a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year!

6WLOO WLPH to DGYHUWLVH

sleeps ‘til Christmas!

Call your FODVVL²HGV consultant

NOW!...

To Visit

Visited

DECEASED estate, motorised scooter ‘Gladiator’, new batteries, serviced, $1600 ono, many quality disability aids, household goods, furniture, as new double bed, everything $1 unless price marked, all must go, cash only, 115 Appin Street, Saturday, December 16, 8.30am start, no early callers, thank you.

To Visit

Visited

GENERAL household, tools, bric-a-brac, records, assorted garden tools, prices from $1, all must go, 134 Wangandary Road, Wa l d a r a S a t u r d a y, December 16, 8am 2pm.

To Visit

Visited

M OW E R , w h i p p e r snipper, BBQ, outdoor timber setting, new single bed bamboo mattress, ornaments, artwork general house hold and much more, 9 Murilla Cres, Saturday and Sunday December 16 and 17, 8am - 11am.

CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free q u o t e p h o n e Tr e v Anderson on 0422 200 761. DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers, behavioural solutions, 0418 314 610. PLASTERER, no job too small. Ph 0424 911 161.

ANGEL! Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

5723 0101

EMPLOYMENT

CUSTOMER SERVICE/OFFICE ADMIN Premier Panels Wangaratta has a full-time position available for someone who has had previous experience in a customer service/office administration role. Responsibilities include: ғ ) '$)" +#*) Ѷ ( $' ) *1 - /# *0)/ - ),0$-$ . ғ / $)$)" ) 0+ /$)" 0./*( - $)!*-( /$*) $) '0 $)" . # 0'$)" 0./*( - - + $- **&$)". ғ ) - ' *Ȃ$ ($)$./- /$*) $) '0 $)" ..$./$)" 2$/# **&& +$)" ) . # 0'$)" *! ,0$+( )/ ( $)/ ) ) ѵ Skills and experience: ғ # .0 ..!0' ++'$ )/ 2$'' . '!Ҋ(*/$1 / 2$/# ) )/#0.$ ./$ Ѷ +-*! ..$*) ' ) ( /0- *0/'**& ) +*.. .. !-$ ) '4 *0/"*$)" ) /0ғ 0/./ ) $)" *((0)$ /$*) ) 0./*( - . -1$ .&$''. - .. )/$ ' ғ ' /* 2*-& $) 0.4 )1$-*)( )/ ) (0'/$Ҋ/ .& ғ /-*)" *(+0/ - ) /$( ( ) " ( )/ .&$''. ! 4*0 /#$)& 4*0 - .0$/ ' !*- /#$. +*.$/$*) ) 2*0' '$& /* %*$) *0- / (Ѷ +' . ( $' *1 -$)" ' // - ) - .0( 2$/# - ! - ) . /* andrea@premierpanels.com.au

REGISTERED & ENROLLED NURSES WANTED Join our Nursing team at Alpine Health! A great career move to a beautiful location in the heart of Alpine country. r Attractive remuneration packages with excellent benefits, including salary packaging, novated leasing and wellbeing programs r Supportive environment with a focus on employee development and learning r Make a difference to the lives of people in our community With plenty of career growth, a tight-knit community, and a great work-life balance, it’s time to make your dream job a reality. Apply now!

REGISTERED NURSE Location: Mt Beauty r Position Type: Full Time or Part Time r Application Details: www.alpinehealth.org.au/careers/jobs ENROLLED NURSES Location: Myrtleford r Position Type: Full Time or Part Time – multiple roles r Application Details: www.alpinehealth.org.au/careers/jobs

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CAR DETAILER Premier Panels Wangaratta has a part time position available for Car Detailer. Responsibilities include: ғ .#$)" ) ' )$)" 3/ -$*-ҝ$)/ -$*- *! 0./*( - 1 #$ ' . ғ ..$./$)" 2$/# (*1$)" *! 1 #$ ' . ғ ) - ' 2*-&.#*+ ' )$)" Skills and experience: ғ /-*)" 2*-& /#$ ) // )/$*) /* / $' ғ ** *((0)$ /$*) ) /$( ( ) " ( )/ .&$''. ғ ' /* 2*-& $) + ) )/'4 . 2 '' . + -/ *! / ( ғ *' 0-- )/ -$1 - '$ ) ! 4*0 /#$)& 4*0 - .0$/ ' !*- /#$. +*.$/$*) ) 2*0' '$& /* %*$) *0- / (Ѷ +' . ( $' *1 -$)" ' // - ) - .0( 2$/# - ! - ) . /* andrea@premierpanels.com.au

We have an excited opportunity for a talented Saturday Duty Manager to join our vibrant team at the sŝŶŶŝĞƐ tĂŶŐĂƌĂƩĂ ^ŚŽƉ͊ :ŽŝŶ sŝĐƚŽƌŝĂ͛Ɛ >ĞĂĚŝŶŐ EŽƚͲ&ŽƌͲWƌŽĮƚƐ͊ ŽŵƉĞƟƟǀĞ ^ĂůĂƌǇ н dĂǆ ZĞĚƵĐŝŶŐ ^ĂůĂƌǇ WĂĐŬĂŐĞ Permanent – Part Time ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂǇ ʹ ϴ͘ϰϱĂŵ ƚŽ ϱ͘ϭϱƉŵ zŽƵ ǁŝůů ůĞĂĚ Ă ƚĞĂŵ ŽĨ ĂŵĂǌŝŶŐ ƐƚĂī ĂŶĚ ǀŽůƵŶƚĞĞƌƐ ǁŚŽ are just as passionate at giving back to their community ĂƐ ǇŽƵ ǁŝůů ďĞ͊ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ůŽǀĞ ƚŚĞ ŝĚĞĂ ŽĨ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƟŶŐ ƚŽ ǇŽƵƌ local community by growing sales, coaching your budding retail heroes, and bringing in much needed funds to the ŽƌŐĂŶŝƐĂƟŽŶ͕ ƚŚĞŶ ǁĞ ǁŽƵůĚ ůŽǀĞ ƚŽ ŚĞĂƌ ĨƌŽŵ ǇŽƵ͊ To apply, please visit: ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬƐǀĚƉǀŝĐ͘ĂƉƉůǇŶŽǁ͘ŶĞƚ͘ĂƵͬũŽďƐͬ^s WϮϴϲϴϯϰ zŽƵ ĂůƐŽ ĐĂŶ ƐĞŶĚ ǇŽƵƌ ĂƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶ ƚŽ͗ ƌĞĐƌƵŝƚŵĞŶƚΛƐǀĚƉͲǀŝĐ͘ŽƌŐ͘ĂƵ

Page 36 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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CARAVANS & CAMPERS

JOBS AT INDIGO Management Accountant ϧ Yackandandah ϧ Full Time ϧ $85,020 - $92,858 p/a, plus super

Cultural Heritage and Museum Manager ϧ Beechworth ϧ Full Time ϧ $85,020 - $92,858 p/a, plus super

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JAYCO Sterling 2013, 22ft, (V71417) with sway control, immaculate condition, slide out queen bed, ensuite with washing machine, large dining area with leather seating, full annex and verandah, new tyres, and a new awning with led lighting, a full service one year ago and lots of extras, $45,300. Ph 0438 511 958.

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Applications close 4pm Sunday, 7January 2024 Visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/jobs to download the position’s recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply.

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Phone: 1300 365 003

OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

2005 Isuzu van (TOV227), 302,000km, manual diesel, reg til Aug 2024, serviced regularly by Robinsons Trucks, in good condition, $19,000 ono. Ph 0439 030 062.

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DINSDALE, Mark Andrew.

HIGH GROVE BERRY FARM Pick your own berries and cherries! Open daily 8am-4pm. Mt Stanley Rd, Stanley Ph (03) 5728 6526 EŽ ŌƉŽƐ ĨĂĐŝůŝƟĞƐ͘

Allied Health Assistant – Grade 3

2014 Jayco StarCraft (V91992), 16ft 6in pop top, 2 single beds, shower and separate toilet, solar power, 2 batteries, large fridge, diesel heater, $32,800. Ph (03) 5766 2657. CARAVAN Millard, great for getting away, $3000 or nearest offer, located in Glenrowan. Ph 0429 070 831.

4.6 Fibre Glass boat/ trailer, 70hp Yamaha, very little use, all safety gear, new seats, awning, paint and gel coat, totally refurbished, new transom, GPS, S o u n d e r, $ 11 , 9 0 0 . Ph 0407 161 665.

S T I N G R AY B o w TRAVELLER Australia Penthouse (Y32913), Rider 2006, 135hp VHPL R൵ URDG FDUDYDQ YHU\ OLWWOH XVH IXOO DQQH[ Volvo motor, seats VOLGH RXW :HEHU %%4 JDV ERWWOHV VOLGH RXW VWRUDJH 7 people, full boat ER[ VOLGHV RXW HLWKHU VLGH N: VRODU TXHHQ cover and binini, just VL]H EHG SRZHU RSHUDWHG OLIW XS VWRUDJH XQGHU EHG services and registered VWRYH DQG RYHQ ODUJH IULGJH IUHH 79 PLFURZDYH until August 2024, in UDGLR ZDVKLQJ PDFKLQH DQG FORWKHV GU\HU IXOO very good condition, ODUJH HQVXLWH DQG DLU FRQGLWLRQHU QHJ $18,000, ono. Call 3K Keith on 0408 103 957.

Find us on Facebook ĨŽƌ ƵƉĚĂƚĞƐ͘ HAY, pasture, 24 large rolls, $75 each, pick up only, near Wangaratta Golf Club. Ph 0422 687 804. JAM apricots, last market pickup for the year, jam apricots, p e a c h e s , p r e s e r ve s for hampers, Moores Swimming, Mason Street, Sunday 8 to 12pm. Orders Ph: 0447 257 303. P R E - L O V E D M O B I L I T Y SCOOTER, with sun canopy and large rear shopping bag, great condition, with warranty o n m o t o r a n d n ew batteries., first to see will purchase at $2700! Wang Mobility Scooters 0400 993 833 TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, M o n d a y, Tu e s d a y, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221. Adzam Tyres.

TOPSOIL SALES Garden, lawn, veggies “COMPOSTED HORSE MANURE” Pick up or delivery. Call, text or leave a message. Greg: 0418 573 836 Wangaratta Garden Supplies Racecourse Rd Near the tip.

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CHERRIES Christmas special Picked cherries from $12/kg $50/5kg carton Smiths Glenrowan Orchards Open Daily 8am – 5pm Closed Fridays Ph 0408 597 770

“Pee-Wee or Skeeta.” Mark peacefully passed away at home following a long battle with cancer on Monday, December 11, 2023 with his beloved partner Bev by his side. He was the loved father of Chelsea Louise. A loving son to Mavis and brother of Gary, Mal and Dianne. May the winds of love blow softly, And whisper for you to hear. That we will love and remember you, And forever keep you near. A private funeral for Mark will be held.

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HISKINS, James Patrick “Jim”. 21/11/1951 – 28/11/2023 Loving husband of Joan (dec). Privately cremated.

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CLASSIFIEDS 03 5723 0101

LAVALLE, John. The Wangaratta Central Combined Probus Club are deeply saddened by the passing of our esteemed member John. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Olive and her family, from all Club members on their sad loss. John will be sadly missed by all.

DEATH NOTICES

Personal Notices 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Cheers to 50 years!

LAVALLE, John Arthur. 23/12/1933 – 11/12/2023 Passed away on December 11, 2023. Loving and devoted husband of 57 years to Olive. Always loved and never forgotten. Family and friends are warmly invited to the celebration of John’s life to be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at the Evergreen Chapel, 359 Wantigong Street, North Albury, commencing at 1.30pm. A private cremation will take place. In lieu of ﬂowers, a donation to the Cancer Council will be greatly appreciated. give.cancercouncil.com.au

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5723 0101

Congratuations Judy and Ken Bevan. ~ Love Nathan, Donna, Rubin and Hayley.

Personal Notices may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication

classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 37

FUNERALS

3/6/1948 - 8/12/2023 Helen passed away peacefully with family by her side at St John’s Wangaratta. Beloved wife of Allan Miller. Loved stepmother of Leigh, Brad and Janelle. Mother-in-law to Kathryn. Adored grandmother to Caden, Leni, Marlie, Ellie, Harper, Bailey and Imogen. Cherished sister-in-law to Lyn and Jim, Lance and Priscilla, and Glenn (dec). Adored Aunt to Belinda (dec), Jamie and Jenny; Damien, Tui and Shayna. Loved daughter of Jack and Una Walsh. Much loved sister and sister-in-law to Mervyn and Wilma; Bernie and Merl; Margaret and Grant; Cathleen (dec) and Mary (dec). Now resting in peace with her beloved Dusty and Molly. You were such a supportive and loving wife and stepmother with a wicked sense of humour that will be missed by so many. A private cremation will be held.

STRUDWICK (Everitt), Marjorie Joan “Midge”.

6/6/1930 – 13/12/2023 Beloved wife of Antonio (dec). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Pat and Vivian, and Mario and Clevette. Nonna of Mark and Lisa. Passed away at Illoura Aged Care on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. Dearly loved, always remembered.

Another year goes by old mate. Will have a beer for you. Miss you mate. ~ George.

Possible shower

30o 33o 35o 36o SAT

TUE

Weekend Edition

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FRIDAY, December 8, 2023

Have your say on Optus outage

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Saddle up for Christmas races

Page 5

Sport

CAROLS AT THE CATHEDRAL

11/3/1957 - 14/12/2012

ALL is set for this year’s Wangaratta Lions Club Carols by Candlelight in the grounds of the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 6pm tomorrow night. The pre-show entertainment is scheduled to commence at 7pm with the carols starting at 7.30pm and continuing until approximately 9.00pm featuring a who’s who of local entertainers performing your favourite carols. The evening will be hosted by Trevor Wickham with an array of talented musicians and vocalists led by the Wangaratta Concert Band conducted by Laura Vincent, and the Community Carols Choir (Sing Australia Wangaratta) conducted by Sarah Holmes-Brown and assistant conductor Jeff Nye. Everyone is welcome, please bring your own rug and chairs. If rain is forecast the carols will still go ahead inside the Cathedral. Full Carols program lift-out on pages 21 - 28

Darling Jude, still in my thoughts, and very sadly missed by the family and all who knew you. Love always,

Mixing it with best FRESH from their whirlwind trip to Sydney for the opening of the Artful Art Show, Artmania Wangaratta director Shea O'keefe and studio artist Ryan Mullavey are still buzzing from the experience. Ryan, runner-up in the mixed media section of the National Artful Art Prize, was a guest at Achieve Australia's Igniting Inclusion event held in Parramatta, the pair flown up to attend the gala and

Daryl

Artmania’s Ryan Mullavey runner-up in National Artful Art Prize abilities, with hundreds of entries received from across Australia in six categories including drawing, painting mixed media, three dimensional, photography and textiles. Ryan was the runner up in the mixed media category for his large scale collage called "Celebrity, Google, Image." He says he made the

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

opening, held to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. The National Artful Art Prize is an online art prize open to artists of all ages and

Ph: 5721 8488

it and asked me about it," he said. "Going to Sydney was a really good experience - it's different from Melbourne. "The highlight of the trip was the art exhibition at CommBank stadium and talking to (special guest) Tim Ferguson about his art - he uses paint pens." ■ Continued page 2

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and the glitter." Ryan said he felt very honoured to be recognised in the mixed media category, to be chosen from artists from all over the country, and he was thrilled to share his work at the gala event. "I was very happy to talk to other people about my artwork - lots of people liked

collage because mixed media is his favourite type of art to make, the intricate work taking around six months during his once-a-week art sessions. "I like googly eyes and glitter and it makes it look interesting," he said. "It took a long time to create the effect with the faces and the googly eyes

BUY

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THOMSON A requiem mass for 0DUFHOOD 7KRPVRQ ZLOO EH R൵HUHG LQ St Patrick’s Catholic Church, )RUG 6WUHHW :DQJDUDWWD RQ 7XHVGD\ 'HFHPEHU DW DP Interment will follow at the :DQJDUDWWD /DZQ FHPHWHU\ 0DUFHOOD¶V IXQHUDO ZLOO EH OLYH VWUHDPHG DW QRUWKHDVWIXQHUDOV FRP DX OLYH VWUHDP

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Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Rosina Tomaino will be held in St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1 Ford Street, Wangaratta, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, commencing at 10am. Burial will follow in the Wangaratta General Cemetery, Vault section.

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ENGLISH, Rachel Elizabeth (Rosser). 24/12/1932 – 17/12/2022 Wife of Richard. Quietly you left us a year ago, no goodbyes. Have missed you so, our last laugh when parting I miss most of all. Your climbing red rose is a picture, reminding me of you this year. Rest peacefully my dear sister, till we meet again. Clorinda keeps in touch. ~ Love Margaret; David, Jan and all the family. XOXO.

Local News. Anytime, Anywhe ere e, Anyhow w. Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December

8, 2023

Housing accelerator scope Local housing network looks to tap

into $500 million social housing

fund

BY STEVE KELLY

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Woman stable after Boweya crash

ritories to undertake the By RYAN MALCOLM reforms necessary to reach the 1.2 million well located homes target. A WOMAN in her 20s was hospitalised with Federal Housing Minister NORTH East social housupper body injuries on Julie Collins said the new ing providers are now able Wednesday evening, funding will mean more Victo access a share of $500 following a road crash torians have a safe and afmillion to build 769 homes near Boweya. fordable place to call home. across Victoria under the Emergency crews “The Social Housing Ac$2 billion Federal Governwere called to Boweyacelerator is just one part of ment’s Social Housing AccelSt James Road around our ambitious housing reerator. 7.15pm, after reports form agenda,” Ms Collins The funding for these of said. a vehicle incident homes must be committed HOUSING HOPE: Social housing networks are looking to make the most of a near the Leitch Road “This agenda is already $500 million by Victoria by June 30, 2025 housing accelerator fund for Victoria, but the question will be how much of intersection. this will come to making a real difference - in and this is on top of the $10 Wangaratta. SES, CFA, Fire Rescue PHOTO: Kurt Hickling Victoria and right across the billion Housing Australia Fu- projects under the Social ply remains Victoria, country.” police and ture Fund and agreement by Housing steadfast, and in the future.” Accelerator pro- we see this ambulance crews all Victorian Minister for as a progressive National Cabinet to deliver gram BeyondHousing is cur- Housing are subject to a busi- move towards attended the scene. Harriet Shing said the most significant housing ness our long-term rently building 220 homes their collaboration case. According to a CFA goals. and partreforms in a generation. across the region and it aims nership BeyondHousing CEO Celia spokesperson, a Bowwith the Albanese “The collaboration be- to construct A State Government Adams welcomed 70 more in 2024. Government eya CFA unit attended to all invest- tween federal and state is creating spokesperson govconfirmed ments in social and The national agreement more discover one passenger afford- ernments and organisations homes for Victorians that across Wangaratta, able includes a new national tar- who housing. inside a vehicle. need and deserve the like BeyondHousing, is vital. get $58.5 million has been into build 1.2 million new dignity “The announcement of The woman had been and safety of a place “While the $500 million in- well-located vested under the Allan Labor 769 homes, the to call home. new homes under the vestment freed from the vehicle in Victoria Government’s Big Housing Social Housing Accelerator nificant contribution,is a sig- National Planning Reform by the time SES crews “Across Victoria our reBuild and other social hous- is we are Blueprint, and A Better an important step, and we mindful Deal cord funding has already arrived. of the ongoing chal- for Renters. ing programs, to build 167 recognise the continuous ef- lenges in the delivered thousands of new An Ambulance Victonew homes already complet- forts housing sector. At National Cabinet, the homes, needed in this sector,” ria spokesperson said but there is more “We remain dedicated to Albanese ed or underway for people Ms Government also work to do,” Ms Adams said. the 20 year old woman our cause, ensuring that eve- invested Shing said. who need them most. a further $3 billion “Our commitment to in- ry Victorian was transported “This Commonwealth to has access to the to the New Homes The spokesperson said creasing Bonus to support will help our work social housing sup- housing they Wangaratta hospital in a to need, now and incentivise states and ter- go even further.” stable condition. skelly@ nemedia.com.au

VANDERMEER, Peter. December 15, 1988. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. ~ Love Mum and Dad.

VANDERMEER, Peter. December 15, 1988. Missing you so much at the moment Pete. ~ Love Julie, Mark and girls.

wangarattachronicle.com.au THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December

Alleged ‘Peppa Pig’ ecstasy pills land Reservoir man in custody

TWO men allegedly an imprint of the popular found in possession of an television character ‘Peppa estimated $100,000 in tablets Pig’, and each bag had ‘500’ believed to be ecstasy in scrawled on the outside. Wangaratta earlier this The alleged passenger week will remain in police faced Wangaratta custody. Magistrates Court on Officers allegedly Wednesday afternoon, intercepted a vehicle in where his application Dixon Street around 4.30am for bail was denied amid on Tuesday morning, with concerns he could be a a subsequent search of the flight risk and could commit vehicle’s back seat reportedly further offending in the locating 10 ziploc bags community. containing an estimated 500 The court heard the man pink tablets each. was living in the vehicle The tablets allegedly bore intercepted by police, but

had ties to Melbourne’s two different people were northern suburb of allegedly found in the Reservoir. accused’s wallet. Senior Constable Kobi Additional phones were Stratford said officers first found in the vehicle’s cabin. noticed the vehicle travelling The accused gave a no on Green Street, before comment interview, and did intercepting the vehicle as it not provide the passcode to allegedly parked out the front his phone, which Sen Const of a home belonging to a Stratford said the man had known local drug trafficker. been holding at the time of He said two phones the search. were allegedly found in He said police had the boot of the car, as were intercepted people with a set of scales, while an similar pills in recent weeks, identification card and a and understood the pink bank card belonging to tablets to have a street value

8, 2023 - Page 3

of between $20 and $30 each. client had loaned his car to Defence counsel Ennes the co-accused in the matter, Marcellus noted a Coles bag and had been “picked up” by containing the alleged drugs the other man to visit friends had been found behind the in Wangaratta, denying driver’s seat of the car, and knowledge of the contents of said his client was confident the Coles bag. his DNA would not be found Magistrate Ian Watkins on the bag. noted the accused had He said following a relevant but limited prior two month prison term convictions, but expressed earlier this year, his client concern the man may had engaged well with continue to offend if corrections, and said the released on bail. matter “comes out of the He remanded the man in blue” for everyone involved. custody to reappear before Mr Marcellus alleged his the court in March.

Mixing it with the best ■ From page 1 "Ryan's artwork really in Reid Street and Shea The National Artful has to be seen in person says it has continued to Art Prize had just over to experience both the evolve since it began. 600 entries from all size and the amount "I am incredibly proud over the Australia and of work that went into of the creative journey of five studio artists from creating it. each and every one of our Artmania submitted "He has a very unique resident studio artists and entries and were featured style to his work and also am honoured to be able in the online gallery of his approach to it - there to hold space for a diverse submissions. are hundreds of faces (cut range of people," she said. Shea O'keefe said the from magazines) in the "It is important that work involved in the piece, some being only our studio artists have exhibition was excellent, 5mm in size. opportunities outside of and very diverse. "People recognise the the studio to present their "A lot of the pieces celebrities' faces through work as well as within the were emotionally charged the distortion of the safety of Artmania. and reflected the artist's added googly eyes. "The Artmania experiences as people "People find a sense of community has grown in living with disability," she playfulness and humour the past four years and I said. when engaging with the hope it will continue to "It was such a fantastic work." do so, building strength opportunity for creative It is the four year and recognition for the people to come together THE EYES HAVE IT: Artmania studio anniversary of the artist Ryan Mullavey and Artmania amazing outsider artists through their practice." director Shea O'keefe are pictured with Ryan's Artmania Creativity Hub artwork Celebrity, Google, Image, of our region." which was the runner-up in the mixed media section of the National Artful Art Prize.

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TOMAINO, Rosina.

24/2/1960-17/12/2018

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THOMSON, Marcella Therese. 17/9/1930 - 8/12/2023 Loved wife of Albert (dec). Mother of Helen Maree, Anne, Margaret, Peter, Jeanette and Stephen. Mother-in-law and cherished friend of Michael, Peta and Bev. Sister of Frank, Jack (dec) and Margaret (dec). Grandmother of 10, great-grandmother of 9. In the garden of beautiful memories, Where leaves fall like dew, There’s a rose that blooms forever, In memory of you.

TODAY

DIFFEY, Judith Anne (Jude).

Passed away peacefully December 11, 2023. Wife of Barry (dec). Daughter of Gordon and Phyllis Everitt (both dec). Loving sister of Jean, Nancy, Kathleen (all dec), Alan and Patricia. Loved and remembered always. Funeral to be held, Monday, December 18, 2023, at Mason Park Chapel commencing at 10.30am.

The graveside funeral service to honour the life of Mrs Anne Butterworth will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn cemetery on Wednesday December 20, 2023, commencing at 10.30am.

DENT, Phil.

MILLER (nee Walsh), Helen.

BUTTERWORTH

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DECK THE HALL: Geoff Dinning, Daniel Peacock (Wangaratta Club), Chris Simen (RSL Wangaratta), Jonathan Sanders and Mel Seymour (La Bella Rocca) will be lending a hand for the Community Christmas Lunch open to all in the community for a festive Christmas Day. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

It’s starting to taste like Christmas

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

for anybody to enjoy, especially those craving the additional Christmas spirit. PREPARATIONS are heating up for WangaIt will be held at Wangaratta Uniting ratta’s Community Christmas Day lunch with Church in Rowan Street on Christmas local businesses offering their support. Day from 11.30am, with lunch to be served RSL Wangaratta, Wangaratta Club and at 1pm and festivities concluding at 2.30pm. La Bella Rocca will be donating their fine Event organiser Jonathan Sanders Christmas cuisine which will include said turkey, he has received plenty of interest for volunpavlova and salads. teers on the day and was open to anyone The Uniting Church and Rural City of willing to donate gifts or sweets to Wangaratta council have also offered enjoy at a cash Christmas. donation for the community lunch. Anyone interested in volunteering The lunch is an open community event can contact Mr Sanders on 0410 669 908.

FREE PARKING: Now’s the time to make the most of free parking by shopping locally. Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton (left) and Mayor Dean Rees encourage everyone in the community to support local businesses this Christmas and throughout the year. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Parking is free until January 1

COUNCIL is spreading the ment that fosters community Christmas spirit with the return connections and bolsters the of free parking in Wangaratta’s economic wellbeing of WanCentral Business District during garatta. the festive season from Friday “We understand the signifiuntil Monday, January 1. cance of supporting our local Residents and visitors alike businesses, especially during are invited to take advantage the festive season,” he said. of complimentary parking, but “Offering free parking is a time limits still apply. small but impactful way to Mayor Dean Rees expressed encourage residents to shop his enthusiasm for this annual locally and contribute to the tradition, highlighting its role in vibrancy of our community. encouraging residents to priori“Local businesses have tise local businesses during the weathered some difficult times holiday season. over the past few years. He said that by providing “Small businesses are the free parking, the council aims backbone of our economy, and to create a welcoming environwe want to do what we can to

support them,” he said. “We are so lucky to have a strong and dynamic business community in the Rural City of Wangaratta, I will certainly be buying local this Christmas and I hope you are able to put some presents under your tree from our local shops.” Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to run a Shop Local campaign and thanks local businesses for the quality products and services provided to our community. For information on the Shop Local campaign visit at www. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/shoplocal.

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REGIONAL NEWS

Youth resilience taking flight on moth’s delicate wings By BRODIE EVERIST YOUNG people from across Victoria were in Bright last Thursday for a collaborative art project aiming to develop skills and increase cooperation across Eastern Victoria for members of a youth-based resilience program. Youth workers and peer workers were at the Pavilion in Pioneer Park painting a collection of canvases to be placed together to depict a Bogong Moth – the logo of the Future Proof program, which is funded by a Black Summer bushfire recovery grant to drive youthled disaster risk reduction outcomes for fire-affected young people and communities. Supervisor Lee Paul, from the Art Bar Bright, said the artwork was a collaborative project where each painter had to consult with others to ensure their part of the artwork would align with surrounding canvases and match corresponding parts of the symmetrical Bogong Moth. The work is also highly symbolic, with the moth’s endangered status representing imbalance, but also the value of returning to stability and resilience.

The wings of the moth depict imagery of the Great Dividing Range, symbolic to the geographic locations of the project partners. Ms Paul also said aboriginal groups would meet in summer to feast on the plentiful moths, meaning the flying insect also represents community and connectedness. “I thought it was important to recreate the logo that shows the story of resilience,” she said. “The sun is new life, the circle is storytelling - all about their journey in the project, and the moth represents them and the significance of what they’ve done.” According to Ms Paul, the group met at around 9:30am, starting with a workshop before they began painting at 10am. “They’ve worked really well together - it’s been very chill,” she said. She said the painting was to be hung at the Melbourne head office of the Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic), the coordinating partner of the Future Proof program. The Future Proof program brings together a range of partners, including eight local

councils, Victoria University and two local learning employment networks. YACVic disaster resilience coalition principal Carla Hall said the group was made up of youth workers and peer workers engaged in local government, NGOs, and Aboriginalcontrolled organisations, who are working with young people to form disaster resilience recovery groups or youth advisory groups, as well as deliver community projects. “They’re getting trained up as youth workers in their community,” she said. “This was based off consultations that were done with young people affected by the Black Summer fires, and they said they needed greater connection with community and youth workers. “So this program is ensuring that the youth work capacity across regional Victoria is increased.” This was the seventh event where the workers met to share knowledge, skills and do training, and it was expected to be the last, but the Federal Government has announced an extension of the black summer program for another 12 months, she said.

HANDS ON: YACVic young peer facilitator Harmony Carmichael and youth worker Adele Miles placing handprints around the sun on the collaborative artwork. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Shire All-weather campaign rolls Alpine counting cost on with greens testing of vandalism By BRODIE EVERIST SOIL samples of the green have been taken at the Myrtleford Bowls Club, the next step in the club’s long-term push for a synthetic surface and a canopy. A geotechnical engineer was onsite last Wednesday drilling with a hand auger, obtaining the samples that will inform the selection of the synthetic surface and provide important data for the installation of a canopy. Club president Lance Symons said samples were to be drilled from the centre and the four corners of both greens. “This is a precursor to the big project as a requirement to establish the true soil profile down as far as a metre and a half beneath the playing surface,” he said. According to Mr Symons, the geotechnical testing will cost around $14,000, but the club has also received a $5000 grant from the Grow Myrtleford+ sub fund towards the testing. He thanked the sub-fund, and the Myrtleford Men’s Shed as the auspicing body for the grant. He said the club has the funds to convert one of the greens to synthetic, but the conversion of both simultaneously would save money, so they are hoping they can receive funding through an Alpine Shire grant to fund some of the second green. Club vice president Greg Robbins said converting both greens at once would cost around $530,000, plus GST, with a saving of around $70-80,000 compared to converting one at a time.

By BRODIE EVERIST

EARTH ASSESSMENT: (From left) Myrtleford Men’s Shed president Clive Walker, geotechnical engineer Hasan Sumer, Myrtleford Bowls Club president Lance Symons and Grow Myrtleford+ committee member Jim van Geet at one of the drill sites at the bowls club. PHOTO: Brodie Everist Mr Symons said the combined greens and canopy project, with an estimated cost of around $3-4 million, would deliver greens that could be used year-round, resulting in more usage by schools, the community and bowlers from across the North East. He cited the example of the Karingal Bowls Club, which he

said quadrupled their barefoot bowls sessions, increased dual membership and established night pennant after they installed a canopy. “It opened up an extraordinary amount of additional hours, twelve months of the year, to organise functions or bowls, whether it be tournaments, whether it be pennant,

whether it be social,” he said. He also said the greens and canopy would make the club a perfect site for finals competitions in the Ovens and Murray League due to the club’s central location. “It would showcase Myrtleford, there would be tourism associated with people coming as well for the experience,” he said.

MORE than $20,000 has been spent this financial year addressing vandalism of public amenities, according to the Alpine Shire Council’s director of assets Alan Rees. Responding to a question on notice at last month’s council meeting, Mr Rees said they have been working with Victoria Police, schools and community groups, but they are struggling to reduce vandalism of amenities. He said their buildings coordinator is responsible for repairing all non-graffiti damage to these amenities, including smashed or blocked toilets, stolen taps, damaged doors, locks that have been glued, and even “toilets that have been removed from their location and placed on park benches”. He encouraged residents to report graffiti as soon as possible. “This will enable us to get those jobs allocated through our customer service team to the appropriate outdoors teams to mobilise and remove the graffiti,” he said. “If there are buildings not owned by council or managed by council our customer service team is more than happy to place those requests with the appropriate agencies. “We have an open spaces team that have a dedicated graffiti removal trailer which has high pressure washers and is used throughout the shire. “The team aims to respond to all service requests within a week, however, due to higher workloads this is not always possible. “In our financial year to date it’s cost council ratepayers funds more than $20,000 dollars to address vandalism and graffiti. “Some of these repairs take longer than what we would like to be able to respond, but under the circumstances we are doing the best that we can.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 39

SCOREBOARD

ANNE DODD

GOOD ROLL: Clive Jones enjoys some croquet at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club on the pristine Merriwa Park greens. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

ANNETTE FILIPEK

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB SATURDAY, December 9 Stableford Winner: Kellie Roberts 37. Ball Winners: Vicki Moorhead (2) 37, Josie Fitzsimons 36, Val Ellis 35. Secret 5 Winner: Val Ellis 13. NTP: 4th Di Murphy, 13th Marilyn Pane, 17th Di Murphy. Saturday, December 9 Stableford A Grade Winner: Daniel McPhee 37. B Grade Winner: Matt Walker 41. C Grade Winner: Steve Smith 38. D Grade Winner: Noel Holmes 39. Ball Winners Alan White (2) 38, Alex Jones 38, John Porter 38, Chris Palmer 37, Gary Butler 37, Bronte Bruce 37, Ben Honeychurch 37, Andy Senkic 36, Steve Fisher 36, Bill O’Brien 36, Martin Van Rhee 35, Jeff Elliott 35, Garth Fullerton 35, Glenn O’Connell 34. Secret 5 Winner: Barry Adams 14. Super Nine

Club Shirt: Garth Fullerton 23. Aroma Deli: Sam Bayles 23. 2 Balls: Ben Honeychurch 22.NTP: 4th Alex Jones, 8th Jeff Elliott, 13th Glenn O’Connell, 17th Glenn Hunt. Sunday, December 10 Stableford A Grade: Phillip Densten 39. B Grade: Kim Arnold 43. Ball Winners: Kevin Hill (2) 40, Matt Saunders 40, Garth Fullerton 38, Ben Honeychurch 38. NTP: 4th Garth Fulleton, 8th Glenn Ryan, 13th Leigh Symons. Tuesday, December 12 Stroke Winner: Wendy Hogan 74. Ball Winners: Joy Hester 77. NTP: 8th Di Murphy, 13th Judy Fogarty. Wednesday, December 13 Stableford A Grade Winner: Mike Monro 38. B Grade Winner: Garth Fullerton 40. C Grade Winner: Danny Potter 39. Ball Winners: Gary Butler (2) 39,

BARBARA TROWER

Noel Holmes 38, Alex Gibbs 37, Eon Scott 37, Kelvin Archer 37, Nigel Cooper W36, Steve Fisher 36, Michael Baillie 36, Pat Ernst 36. NTP: 4th Kelvin Archer, 8th Kelvin Archer, 13th Ian Dinsdale, 17th Dave RIchards. Wednesday, December 13 9 Hole Stableford A Grade Winner: Andy Senkic 19. Runner Up: Glenn Hunt 18. B Grade Winner: Rod Canny 22. Runner Up: Val Ellis 20. NTP: 13th Andy Senkic, 17th Andy Senkic.

TARRA GOLF CLUB TARRAWINGEE Golf Club results Saturday, December 9 The winners of the Doubles K.O. final were Leo McCoy and Glenn Simmons 4/3. Those players not involved in the KO final played a stroke event with the winner being Pete Nolan nett 73, runner up Lindsay Steer nett 75.

NTP: 4th Ken Miller, 8th Angelo Garraffo. Golf to be played on Saturday, December 16 is for the Secretary’s Trophy. Due to the warmer weather hit off times will be 8:30am for a 9:00am start. The members are to be advised that the A.G.M will be held after golf on December 16 at approximately 1:30pm with the election of the office bearers and other relevant positions to be held at that meeting, all members welcome. Members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428122590 or by contacting a member of the club.

WANG CROQUET RESULTS for Monday, December 11 are as follows: Joan Dyson and Gabi Heywood d Janet Kelly and Cheryle Beckley

LORRAINE JOHNSTONE

7/3, Andy Barbero and Terry Wilson d Margaret Bennett and Christine Ireland 7/3, Elise Downes and Gavan Kelly d Peggy Ritchie and Nathan Reynolds 5/4 in a timed out game. Last Saturday eleven people attended as part of Wangaratta Council’s “Summer in the Parks” program. The last “Summer in the Parks” session will be Saturday, December 16 after which the club is closing until Monday, January 8 when we return to normal as listed below. On Wednesday evening several members enjoyed some games, finishing just before the hail storm hit. Yesterday, 25 members and partners enjoyed a Christmas lunch at the Wangaratta Club. The Wangaratta Croquet Club wishes everyone a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year. For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

Page 40 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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SPORT

Naish drops VFL to sign at ‘Pies

EXCITING TIMES: Patrick Naish will play at Wangaratta full-time in 2024. PHOTO: AFL Photos

THE Naish name is returning to Norm Minns Oval after Patrick signed with the club full-time. The former Richmond and West Coast Eagles midfielder enjoyed 20 games at the top level and at 24-yearsold still has his best footy in front of him. Naish arrives at Wangaratta following in the footsteps of his dad Chris who grew up at the Magpies before going on to play 161 games for Richmond and Port Adelaide. Naish said he always planned to play at Wangaratta post his AFL career. “I always wanted to play at Wangaratta at some stage but obviously not knowing

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

when my AFL journey would end it was hard to say when they would be,” Naish said. “But that time has come now and I’m really excited to join the club alongside one of my best mates in Alex Federico. “My young brother Charlie who’s with Footscray in the VFL is also going to sign with Wangaratta as his home club so I’m over the moon to have him there as well.” Naish signed with Carlton’s VFL side in mid-November with the hopes of finding his

way back onto an AFL list through the SSP (supplemental selection period). But Carlton filled their list spots up at the draft which saw Naish elect to play for the Magpies instead of VFL football. “Originally I was going to play VFL with Carlton with the potential of getting back on a list but unfortunately that fell over,” Naish said. “I’m now working at Kookaburra in a head sales role for Victoria and Tasmania and still wanted to play as high a level of footy I could and I feel that O&M is the perfect fit. “Playing VFL wasn’t going to be sustainable for me so

I’m looking forward to playing in the O&M.” While Naish’s knowledge would be impeccable for a 24-year-old having played at Richmond through their premiership era, he said he just wants to enjoy his football. “I definitely feel that I have got some knowledge to give but at the same time I don’t want to come into the club and rock the boat,” Naish said. “Maggies have got a strong culture and some quality players who know a lot so for me I just want to come in and enjoy my footy. “Hopefully I can get to know the boys as quickly as possible which will be hard

because I’m living in Melbourne but I’ll get to Wangaratta when I can and our preseason camp will be a good opportunity to do that.” Naish will no doubt be one of the best midfielders going around the O&M but his ability to play half-forward or half-back will help the Magpies when needed. “I definitely do see myself as a midfielder but versatility’s a strength of mine,” Naish said. “With ‘Fed’ (Federico) and ‘Squid’ (Melville) joining we’ve got a stacked midfield this year so there will be plenty of moving parts and I’m happy to play forward or back if needed.”

FAST START: Callum Bott ran first for the gold medalist Victorian under 16 mixed 4x400m relay team.

GOLD CLASS: Callum Bott (left) and the mixed 400m under 16 national champion Matthew Milias, Jazmin Firth and Honour Tobin.

Bott dashes to national gold ■ From back page

GOLD STAR: WCFC president Kristy Mellor an and the club are pleased to have been awarded their first star from the Club Changer program. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Gold star acknowledgment for Wangaratta City FC By NATHAN DE VRIES WANGARATTA City FC has been awarded a gold star from Football Australia’s Club Changer club development program. Split into three levels, the Club Changer program provides a clear framework for clubs to develop themselves, and requires the completion of various modules across areas such as infrastructure and safeguarding. To earn the first gold star, clubs must complete a series of modules surrounding women and girls in the sport, and formulate and discuss an action plan with a state football representative. WCFC president Kristy Mellor said the program was a great help

in guiding clubs through their development. “To be honest, clubs were very much on their own for a long time,” she said. “It very much depended on the individual clubs, but this is a good structure to work within. “One of the modules is women and girls in sport, one is safeguarding, one is infrastructure, one is community development, so there are a range of skills. “Football Australia have realised clubs need to have a framework to work in, and this is the way they’re going to support us to do that.” Clubs are incentivised to make the most of their star rating, enabling access to prize draws, grants and support programs to further

strengthen their offerings and capabilities. Mellor said the club’s strong participation from women and girls meant they were well placed to earn their first star. “We’ve completed the women and girls (module) successfully, we’re actually really strong in this area and have been for a long time,” she said. “In comparison to other clubs that we play against, we field a full complement of female teams, junior and senior, we’ve got a massive load of MiniRoos – out of 250 MiniRoos, we’ve got at least 100 girls playing. “We’ve got about 50 per cent women on our committee and we’ve also got a female president,

so we’ve actually done really well in that space to encourage women and girls to feel happy and supported and play football.” With three total stars on offer, Mellor said the club would be working hard to complete all they had to do in order to improve on the established structure. “As a result of being a one-star club, we’re actually applying for a $5000 grant through Football Australia to run a MiniRoos for girls program, so that girls can come in and exclusively play against girls,” she said. “We’re hoping to bring that in next year, so we’re applying for a grant for that.” Currently, more than 500 football clubs across Australia have achieved one star status.

Starting in lane five as the seventh fastest qualifier from the heats, Callum fought hard to keep in touch of the high speed field, crossing the line in sixth. The field was blown away by Queenslander Seth Kennedy, who fell half a second short of breaking the Australian under 16 400m record of 47.99sec. The Galen Catholic College student completed the lap in 50.43sec, just two and a half tenths off his personal best time at the end of last season of 50.17sec. Callum said the pressure of the individual final was much more intense to his relay run later in the day, which he felt was his better run. “I was pretty happy with my individual final, I didn’t perform as well as I have previously but it was a good way to start of my season coming so close to my PB,” he said. The 15-year-old won silver in April at the Australian Junior Track and Field Championships in the 400m, backing up previous medal finishes of silver and bronze in the two nationals prior. Callum said he will be ramping his training over the holidays, with an eye on competing for a fourth straight medal finish and a sub 50 second time at junior nationals next April.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 41

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Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

PREVIEWS: Saturday, December 16

Magpies and RUB face off in final round of the year FIERCE rivals squaring off in the final round of cricket in 2023 – the script could not have been better written. The always-fiery clash between Rovers United Bruck and their cross-road foes Wangaratta Magpies on Saturday will be the last time the two sides will meet this year, with the WDCA set for their Christmas break until mid-January. The rivals have not met in white ball cricket since last season’s Rod Newton Shield final, which the ‘Pies won by 37 runs. With neither team the obvious favourite based on middling performances this season, RUB skipper Paddy McNamara said it was time to let the cricket do the talking. “It’s a huge game, both sides really need to win, and obviously it’s always a great contest when we play ‘Maggies’, so we’re really looking forward to the battle,” he said. “We were pretty disappointed last weekend - going into the game we were sitting on top of the one day ladder and then we dropped to fifth after a loss. “We were just throwing away our wickets, and not

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

really building partnerships, and we haven’t had too many people go on and make a big score this year. “We’re counting on our leaders this weekend, someone to stand up and make that big score, and a few people to hang around and build a few partnerships.” McNamara said the first XI was not fully settled, and with a strong A reserve squad waiting in the wings, some players would need to stand up and perform if they wanted to keep their spot. “It’s good when the A res boys go well, there’s a bit of pressure on the batters and bowlers in the A grade to do their job,” he said. “We’ll get Harry Jones back from boarding school which will be a real positive sign - he’s a quality bowler and he’s been enjoying his time down there in Melbourne but it’s always great to have him back. “We’re (RUB and Magpies) both in similar positions on the ladder, and we both really need to win, so it’s going

to be even better.” The ‘Pies are coming off a solid 45 run win with the white ball over Delatite, but they still sit towards the lower end of the ladder. Magpies’ skipper Jack Davies said his side wouldn’t let the chance for victory slip through their fingers, as they have done before. “They’re a quality side, and we know that, we’ve got to be on our game,” he said. “The last time we played them, we had the opportunity to win the game but weren’t able to get it done, so it could have been a different story, same with City Colts, we were in a good position. “We’ve had opportunities in most games to win and we haven’t capitalised, so we need to make sure we’re on our game this weekend and go into the Christmas break with four and four.” Wangaratta Magpies host Rovers United Bruck this Saturday at Norm Minns Oval, with play to commence from 1pm. SMASHING CONTEST: Nick Pell and the Magpies face up against rivals Rovers United Bruck this Saturday. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Golden chance to end 2023 on a high for Colts

ROUND EIGHT: Mitch Giggins’ City Colts meet Delatite at Barr Reserve on Saturday.

CITY Colts’ strong start to the season can be capped off with a win over Delatite at Barr Reserve on Saturday. The rising Colts sit in third position with just a one-day clash with Delatite remaining before the Christmas break that will see the competition on hold until January 6. City Colts fell to Yarrawonga Mulwala last weekend and are keen to finish 2023 on a high. “Last weekend was obviously a bit disappointing but we get a few boys back in which will bolster us a bit,” Giggins said. “Jessie (Smith) and Kent (Braden) will come back in but we’ll still be missing Justin Solimo and Hayden Murray. “Hopefully we can finish with a good win going into the break.” It’s a polar opposite affair for City Colts after facing competition leaders Yarrawonga Mulwala last weekend before now coming up against the last placed Delatite. But Giggins said no game is easy in this year’s competition. “You can’t take anyone lightly,” he said. “Anyone can knock off anyone on their day so we’ll just be backing our senior guys in to get the job done and make a big impact. “It’s important that we bat

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

our 40 overs and get some form with the bat going into the Christmas break.” In other games, Ovens Valley United head up to Baarmutha Park in Beechworth to take on the Wanderers in a one-day top of the table clash. “We know their top four are absolutely critical to their runs, we’ve got to make inroads,” Tigers skipper Dylan Bursill said. “If we can get two or three early wickets and get into the middle order I think we’re every chance but, in saying that, we know we’ve got to be patient because they are classy players. “They have the Surrey boys (Brenton and Kayde), we’ve seen how good Clancy Ellett is, and not taking anything away from Campbell Fendyk, he’s just as good.” Meanwhile, ladder leaders Yarrawonga Mulwala hosts the seventh placed Benalla Bushrangers who have lost some form after a positive start to the season. The Lakers are the in-form side of the competition and can finish on top of the ladder going into the break with victory over the Bushrangers.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023 - Page 43

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SPORT

REPRESENT: WDCA representative player Jobe Fraser in action during last season’s Country Week. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Junior rep cricket wrapped for 2023

SUPER COACH: Noel Halton (front row, far right) and Victoria’s Marie Little Shield winning team.

Halton named netball Coach of the Year FORMER Wangaratta Rovers coach Noel Halton was named Netball Victoria’s Coach of the Year at the 2023 Netball Victoria Community Awards, held virtually last Thursday. Halton was recognised for his dedication to developing athletes at all levels at the game, including the Corowa and District Netball Association, North East Blaze in the VNL and State Development Talent Academy. He was part of the coaching team which led Victoria’s team to victory over New South Wales in the Marie Little Shield, a netball competition which provides female athletes with an intellectual disability the chance to represent their state at a national level.

His commitment is demonstrated by the countless hours spent commuting – over six hours a fortnight – to the team’s training sessions. In accepting the award, Halton said he was honoured to be recognised for his efforts. “I’m actually quite humbled by the whole thing,” he said. “It’s been a busy 12 months, but like every coach out there, we don’t do it for these awards, we do it to try and make netball a better game for everyone. “I do really have to thank my family because they’ve been such a great support – if you’ve got the support of your family behind you, it make all this sort of stuff worthwhile and achievable.”

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Halton said his work with the Marie Little Shield team was a major highlight in his more than 10 year long coaching career. “I’ve got to be honest, it’s probably the greatest achievement in my netball coaching (career) so far to be involved and to have the success we had this year,” hear said. “The group of people we work with, Netball Victoria staff and Naomi (Linossier, head coach) who was also nominated, working alongside her has been fantastic. “The playing group is such a special group, no egos whatsoever, they just play for the love of the game. “It was just so exciting to work with them and I’m looking forward to doing so in the future.”

TOP HONOUR: Noel Halton took out Coach of the Year at the Netball Victoria Community Awards. PHOTOS: Netball Victoria Facebook

LAST weekend’s clash with Murray Valley Cricket Association marked the final representative outing for the year for Wangaratta and District junior cricketers. Local squads from all junior age groups played across Yarrawonga-Mulwala and Cobram, coming home with the goods in all grades. WDCA junior representative cricket liaison Wayne Cooper said besides a minor technical issue with the new PlayHQ system, the matches went off without a hitch. “Murray Valley couldn’t get their players up, they couldn’t set it up for some reason,” he said. “All of the games were there (Yarrawonga), and one in Cobram because Yarrawonga didn’t have enough grounds to host. “It went really well, and as far as I’m aware Wangaratta won all of them, which is what we’d expect. “It was really well hosted as well, and all the kids got their new uniforms, so they looked pretty good.” The Murray Valley Challenge is the final junior representative fixture before it culminates at Junior Country Week, slated to begin on January 7, 2024. WDCA juniors will face up against other leagues in North East Region 6, namely Cricket Albury Wodonga and Cricket Wagga Wagga.

Page 44 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Naish drops VFL for Magpies

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Page 40

WDCA DERBY WANGARATTA Magpies’ Cooper Matheson returns from a week off to take on rivals Rovers United Bruck at Norm Minns Oval tomorrow.

 WDCA previews: Page 42 PHOTO: Melissa Beatie

Bott dashes to gold Teenager g shines in champion p Victorian mixed 4x400m relayy team at national titles CALLUM Bott has made a flying start to his 2023/24 athletics season after taking home Australian All Schools Athletics Championships gold with the Victorian mixed 4x400m relay team. Running in his first 400m relay in Perth last weekend, the 15-year-old ran first for the Victorian mixed team

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

starting from the outside in lane eight. After a steady start Callum hit the start/finish straight in second behind West Australia in lane nine, before reeling in

the tiring runner with a strong finish to reach the changeover first in just under 52sec. The team was in fifth going into the last handover before final runner Matthew Milias reigned in the frontrunners, overtaking Queensland down the final straight to win by a second.

Callum said his first time experience in Perth was plenty of fun, and was rapt with his performance in the relay to come home with gold. “I hadn’t ran a 4x400m relay before so it was a bit different, but being the first runner helped, it wasn’t so different to running a normal 400m,” he said.

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“I took training easy on the lead up to the weekend, the travel up to Perth and the three hour time difference was pretty exhausting, but overall it didn’t seem to affect my performance too much. “Overall the weekend was a great experience.” Before the relay, Callum made a strong first

impression in his individual 400m event in the under 16s, qualifying as the fastest Victorian runner in the state championships a month prior. In his heat on Saturday, Callum placed second and earned an automatic qualification into the final on Sunday morning. ■ Continued page 40

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Education & Career Development

Kickstart your career #ûñāŅʇŔÊńå¿õÊʇõÊ¨ěûåûÝ #ńĘ¨ûÆʇŅāīěʇóûāĿõÊÆÝÊ

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Education & Career Development

Edition 4

Wangaratta Art Supporting regional Gallery holiday fun students to study and stay locally

WANGARATTA Art Gallery is excited to once again present the very popular National Gallery of Victoria Kids on Tour 2024 program these summer holidays. Two free workshops will be oﬀered on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 and Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 10am to 12pm each day at Wangaratta Art Gallery. Eight contemporary artists and collectives worked with the NGV to design creative activities specifically for this program that will be facilitated by educators David Godkin and Glenis Rice. Each workshop will engage, delight and inspire children, teens and parents who attend with a variety of themes and art making techniques. For more details and to book your place, please visit www.wangarattaartgallery. com.au The gallery is committed to life-long learning and growing the art community locally through our extensive exhibitions across three spaces and the related public programs and workshops. There is a free bus service available to all local schools. Contact us on 03 5722 0865 for more information and to book your excursion today. In 2024, Wangaratta Art Gallery will be collaborating with internationally renowned Japanese-Australian artist Hiromi Tango to deliver Healing Garden Wangaratta. This site-responsive project created with, for and by the Wangaratta and regional

HEALING GARDEN: Wangaratta Art Gallery will be creating a similar Healing Garden to the one at the Wollongong Art Gallery (pictured) with the help of artist Hiromi Tnago. PHOTO: Bernie Fischer

North East Victorian community will draw on the healing properties of plants and flowers in the local environment. Schools, children and families, community and craft groups will be invited to participate in a series of workshops throughout the year to co-create a garden installation at Wangaratta Art Gallery. By focussing on colour, materiality and meditative action, participants will experience the positive cerebral impact of art making, while strengthening social connections through shared experience. Workshops will create space for people, young and old, to slow down, reflect, and engage in positive activity. For announcements on workshop times visit www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au or our Facebook or Instagram sites. To register your interest for a free Healing Garden workshop for your groups please call us on 03 5722 0865.

COUNTRY Universities Centre (CUC) - Ovens Murray continues to support local students’ university and higher education journeys. Isabelle Cottrell has been using the CUC while completing her Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science through Charles Sturt University. The CUC is a free service for any student currently studying a degree or higher education course. “When I heard of the CUC, I was excited to have a place to go and get out of the house and complete university work,” Isabelle said “Having access to dual monitors, Wi-Fi, printing and stationery was a game changer. “I have used the CUC for all aspects of university, from streaming lectures, completing assignments, and sitting exams.” After the completion of her third-year studies,

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES: Country Universities Centre helps students through their higher education studies.

Isabelle started a nine month medical imaging placement in Wangaratta. “I used the Wangaratta CUC Centre before and after work to complete my assessments and portfolio,” Isabelle said. “This centre was a space for me to go after work, relax and get lots of work done. “Some days it felt like a second home.” Isabelle has successfully

completed her degree and has secured work here in Wangaratta for next year. “The CUC is a great option for people who want to study and upskill, but stay in their local community,” Mark van Bergen, centre manager at CUC Ovens Murray, said. For more information or to register for this free service, visit www. cucovensmurray.edu.au.

ˊ˛ˬ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥ ˪˜˧˛ ʶˈʶ ˂˩˘ˡ˦ ˀ˨˥˥˔ˬ ʛˊ˔ˡ˚˔˥˔˧˧˔ʜʲ ʼ˧ʚ˦ ʹ˅ʸʸ ˧ˢ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥ ˔ˡ˗ ˨˦˘ʭ Dedicated study spaces Dual screen computers Fast, reliable internet Printing facilities ʴcademic support We are a safe, secure study facility open from ʨam to midnight,

Wangaratta Art Gallery

is excited to once again present the very popular National Gallery of Victoria Kids on Tour 2024. Eight contemporary artists and collectives worked with the NGV to create activities specially for this program. Two free workshops are offered on Wednesday 10 January & Thursday 11 January 2024 from 10am -12pm

7 days a week ˙ˢ˥ ʻ˜˚˛˘˥ ʸ˗˨˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˦˧˨˗˘ˡ˧˦ʡ Find us in Building F - GOTAFE Docker St Campus, Wangaratta.

For more details and to book your place, please visit www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au or 03 5722 0865

NGV Kids on Tour is an initiative of the National Gallery of Victoria. NGV Kids extends sincerest thanks to Event Partner, Officeworks, for their generous support of NGV Kids exhibitions and programs

Discover more or register at cucovensmurray.edu.au

The CUC provided me a place to study in the evenings and weekends that was away from the interruptions at home. Kate ʻˢ˪˔˥˗ Master of Speech Pathology University of Canberra

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Education & Career Development

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Dreaming of a university education - but unsure where to begin? CHARLES Sturt University’s enabling courses are perfect for you. They bridge gaps in your knowledge and teach you important foundational skills – all before you start uni. They’re particularly helpful if you haven’t studied for a while, don’t have the exact prerequisites needed for a particular course, or want to update your academic skills before starting uni. Get set for success with the Access Charles Sturt Entry program This enabling course will get you up to speed with the skills you need to succeed, like academic writing, foundational maths and critical thinking. It’s ideal if you didn’t do year 12, have a TAFE Certificate II or it’s a few years since you did any formal learning. It’s also a great way to build your confidence. Plus, on completion you’ll get entry into the Undergraduate Certificate in University Preparation – which gives you guaranteed entry into a range of degrees. You can choose to study the Access Charles Sturt Entry program:

FLEXIBLE LEARNING: Enabling courses at Charles Sturt University can help you update your academic skills before starting uni.

• on Charles Sturt’s AlburyWodonga, Bathurst, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga or Dubbo campuses • right here in North East Victoria – at the Wangaratta Regional Study Centre • online.

Study with Australia’s most experienced online university Everyone learns diﬀerently. Whether you love to read quickly or take your time, work at the crack of dawn or burn the midnight oil as a night owl – online study works around you.

All you need to do is meet your course’s key deadlines. When you study online with Charles Sturt, you’ll experience real flexibility. The kind of flexibility that allows you to study while living your life.

Get ready for university Want to go to university – but don’t know where to start? Have you got a TAFE Certiﬁcate II or it’s been a few years since you did formal study? Good news: the Access Charles Sturt Entry Course is perfect for you. It preps you for uni, and opens doors to further study. Our Wangaratta Regional Study Centre can help you stay connected while you learn, with the resources, support services, facilities and industry networks to get you ahead.

That means you choose how, when and where you learn. Everything is there for you at the click of a mouse. Lectures, tutorials, assessments, resources and community spaces. Plus, an extensive digital library is available 24/7, with plenty of online resources and how-to guides to help you find what you need. Be supported from start to finish at our Wangaratta Regional Study Centre Prefer to study on campus? No problem. Charles Sturt understands what it’s like to live in regional Australia – and the importance of fostering a connected community. That’s why you’re always welcome on campus – like the Wangaratta Regional Study Centre, where you’ll get personalised health, wellbeing, study and career support. Plus, access state-of-the-art learning and teaching facilities, seminar and meeting rooms, videoconferencing, science and computer labs, and quiet study spaces. Ready to get started? Learn more about Charles Sturt enabling courses – and the degrees they open doors to by visiting study.csu.edu.au/enabling-courses.

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Education & Career Development

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Start building your career with the CVGT Employment team THE Wangaratta CVGT Employment team provide a range of services to help young people on their career path. Their team of employment specialists oﬀer a supportive environment to develop your skills, build your confidence and help you choose a career you’ll love. They oﬀer the Transition to Work program, for those weighing up their future after school or struggling to choose where they fit in the workforce. Transition to Work helps young people aged 15 to 24 finish education and make a start in their career. When you join the program, you get practical support, guidance and work experience opportunities to prepare you to launch a career. “Our youth mentors can connect you with a range of services and provide you with support to make it easier for you to stay in work or training,” CVGT employment transition to work manager, Debra Remlein, said. A great example of the success that can be achieved through accessing a Transition to Work youth mentor is Khyara.

CAREER BUILDING: Khyara is all smiles at her new job.

Khyara is 19 and her story will be familiar to many young people who are starting work for the first time. In March 2023, she volunteered for the CVGT Employment Transition to Work program looking for support and guidance. Youth employment mentor Helene found the perfect way to address Khyara’s anxiety

about working for the first time, enrolling her in confidence building workshops. “We had open and honest conversations about learning pathways and career options,” Helen said. “As it is with all our participants, I wanted Khyara to find something she enjoys.” After exploring her options,

Meaningful work tailored to your needs is available ơʮώʾʢώǧơȥʅώ̊ɢʾώ̺ɄƚώʮǧơώʅơʊǐơƓʮώ̺ʮ CVGT Employment harnesses your abilities to create meaningful and sustainable work with an employer who understands you.

ɢɄʮĬƓʮώʾʢώʮɢώʢʮĬʊʮώ ̊ɢʾʊώȗɢʾʊɄơ̊ώʮɢ̄Ĭʊƚʢώ Ĭώȗɢƒώ̊ɢʾώ̄Ƕȥȥώȥɢ̃ơ·

TRANSITION TO WORK: Youth mentor Helene visits a very happy Khyara at work.

Khyara made the decision to pursue employment in retail. Mentor Helene accessed funding to purchase her work clothing and employment training. In November, with Helene’s support, Khyara started full time employment at Godfrey’s Wangaratta as a retail assistant. “It’s great, I’m loving it” Khyara says.

If you’re young and experiencing challenges with mental health, education, social support and employment you too can access a CVGT employment youth mentor by calling 132 848 or visit cvgt. com.au If you’d like to speak to someone in person you can find their friendly team at 8-10 Ford St, Wangaratta

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Education & Career Development

Education & Career Development, 2023 - Page 5

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Unveiling career opportunities for growth in Benalla and Mulwala THALES Australia oﬀers diverse, progressive and dynamic careers. In October, the Australian Government announced an investment of $220 million to introduce new technologies and improve manufacturing across sites in Benalla and Mulwala. To cater for this, Thales is further investing in a diverse and skilled workforce for the region. Ross: A homegrown talent leading project supervision Here, we spotlight the journey of Ross, whose career path encapsulates dedication and skilful expertise. His progression from an apprentice carpenter to a project supervisor at Thales is not just a professional advancement; it’s a narrative interwoven within Thales’s fabric, reflecting a solid bond with the Yarrawonga community. From carpentry apprentice to project supervisor: Ross’s journey Ross’s story is deeply ingrained in the Yarrawonga region. Growing up there, he began his career as an apprentice carpenter, demonstrating

a knack for leadership and management early on. His journey to Melbourne and various site management roles have culminated in his recent appointment as a project supervisor at Thales. Today, Ross is instrumental in managing key projects, including enhancing amenities and constructing new facilities at our Mulwala site. A partnership in professional and personal life Ross’s narrative intertwines with his partner, Kara, who has been with Thales for over a decade. Kara began her career at Thales as a health, safety and environment (HSE) advisor, and now, as the national HSE manager, she leads the HSE team at both Benalla and Mulwala sites. Ensuring that we keep our employees and the local community as a top priority. Community engagement and lifestyle Returning to the Yarrawonga region to be closer to family, Ross and Kara are avid enthusiasts of the local lifestyle, enjoying skiing, camping, and

SUCCESS STORIES: Kara and Ross have both enhanced their careers at Thales.

community based activities. Ross’s involvement with the Mulwala Football and Netball

Club further showcases his commitment to the community, echoing Thales’s ethos of being

Scan to check out our current job vacancies!

more than just a workplace but a community supporter. A testament to Thales’s commitment to growth Ross’s career growth from a local apprentice to running new construction projects displays his passion to grow and develop. Now at Thales as a Project Supervisor, Thales mirrors his commitment to providing avenues for professional growth. His journey, alongside Kara’s impressive career progression, highlights the diversity of opportunities Thales oﬀers – not just in terms of career choices, but also in fostering a healthy balance between professional aspirations and personal passions. Embark on your journey with Thales Let Ross and Kara’s stories inspire those contemplating a career path or a change. Thales Australia is not just about providing jobs; it’s about oﬀering a journey of growth, learning, and community involvement in the heart of Benalla and Mulwala. Join the Thales team and be a part of our thriving community where your career aspirations can turn into reality.

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Education & Career Development

Edition 4

Make the most of your gap year with Connex CONNEX oﬀers a wide range of gap year and cadetship opportunities for students with an interest in visual communications, mathematics, engineering, project management or fabrication. Currently Connex has three students undertaking a cadetship, Liam Hill and Ben Sgarioto, who are in the detailing team, and Angus Lewis, who works on drafting and structural design on AutoCAD for residential houses. Ben said his typical day starts with a meeting with his team, who he said are his favourite part of the job. “My average working day at Connex would start with the team meeting via video call to discuss the priority of jobs we need to work on, then from that I go through my list and start chipping away on the drawings,” he said. “My favourite part about working at Connex is the approachable nature of all my co-workers if I am in any need of help or assistance.” According to Ben, he chose the Connex cadetship as it allowed him to have a smooth transition from school to

GREAT TEAM: Ben Sgarioto said he loves working alongside other team members including senior detail drafter/team leader Andrew Higgins. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

the work force and aligned with his interests and he encourages others to do the same. “Transitioning from school to the cadetship has been smooth since there are similarities to that of attending school since my role involves following

many deadlines that I need to meet,” he said. “My advice to give to someone willing to partake or is interested in a similar cadetship is to always have an open mind when working on a project since anything can happen.” Ben said in the future

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DESIGN & CERTIFICATION STRUCTURAL STEEL DETAILING | PRECAST DETAILING

Our Gap Year Program is suited to students who have completed year 12 and have an interest in this industry. In this position you will: ƍ ƍ ƍ ƍ

produce 2D construction drawings and gain exposure to 3D modelling. learn basic structural engineering drafting and principles. spend time in our fabrication and site erection businesses. work alongside our project managers.

HOW TO APPLY

CADETSHIP: This year’s cadets at Connex were Liam Hill, Angus Lewis and Ben Sgarioto.

he hopes to continue his career in this field while continuing to learn about engineering and construction. Connex are also welcoming new cadets, Brodie Fisher, who started recently and Tully Dwyer, who will start in the new

year, from Wangaratta High School as part of their 2024 program. Both of the new cadets will be joining the detailing team as their main position throughout the year. They still have availability to take on other cadets in other positions for 2024.

Those interested can apply through their website, https://connexgroup.com. au/ careers-gap-yearcadetship/ or through contacting their HR director Amanda either over the phone, 0439 751 209 or email, amanda@ cgandcgroup.com.au.

KICKSTART YOUR CAREER IN THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Gap Year & Cadetship Program We at Connex Group are eager to employ local young people who have a passion for the construction industry and an eagerness to learn. We have always grown with our people, starting them from entry level and giving them all the opportunities to grow with us.

The BENEFITS for Cadets Local employment for local young people. Fulfill Gap year locally with full time work.

Complete the Application Form on our website: https://connexgroup.com.au/careers-gap-year-cadetship/

Exposure in the construction industry.

Help cadet decide direction of study and career.

Send your resume to: amanda@cgandcgroup.com.au If you would like to have an informal chat about the program please call our HR Manager, Amanda on 0439751209.

Receive structured learning in line with TAFE institutes. Ongoing part-time and full-time work during study and post cadetship completion. Post study completion career opportunities.

Phone: Email:

(03) 5721 8673 admin@connexgroup.com.au

Address: Suite 2, Level 1, 90-100 Ovens St, Wangaratta, Vic 3677 Website: www.connexgroup.com.au

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Education & Career Development, 2023 - Page 7

Education & Career Development

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Get the qualifications you need at 1 Stop WITH campuses in Wangaratta, Bundalong and Barmah, 1 Stop Driving School is centrally placed to deliver high quality training. They take pride in oﬀering and delivering training and assessment in the fields of civil construction plant operations and driving operations, and as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #40729) 1 Stop has earnt a reputation as a leader in the provision of flexible and innovative services. These courses, among others, are currently running and can help get you where you want to be. Truck Licences There is a range of truck driving licence courses from multi combination to light ridged. Whether you need a licence to drive a smaller truck or a truck with additional trailers, 1 Stop has got you covered. Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck Learn all the outcomes required for the operation of a powered industrial truck equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage to which is attached a pair of fork arms or other attachment, for licensing purposes. Topics covered in this course include workplace health and safety legislation and operating procedures, hazard identification

DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS: Build your career with a range of courses at 1 Stop.

and risk assessment, pre and post operational checks, determining weight loads and more to equip you with all the skills required

to obtain a High-Risk Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck. Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations

Build your career as a trade qualified plant operator with this nationally accredited course. Learn how to safely operate

plant equipment such as excavators, backhoe, loaders, skid steers and rollers, as well as working on exciting civil infrastructure projects, White Card and First Aid topics and more in a booming industry. Traffic Management and Traffic Control This is a nationally recognised two day course made up of two units; RIIWHS302E Implement traffic management plan and RIIWHS205E Control traffic with stop- slow bat that aims to give students the skills in planning and preparing, setting out; monitoring and closing down traffic guidance schemes coordinating traffic; operating radios; and cleaning up. The Certificate training courses are delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth funding. 1 Stop’s goal is to provide students with a safe, fair and supported environment to participate in their training and assessment, and to ensure they are confident and job ready. If you are currently employed in, or want to enter sectors such as civil construction (plant operations), forestry or timber, road transport, driver training and licence endorsement, materials handling, industrial licensing or maritime, 1 Stop Driving School can help you get the qualifications you need to succeed.

ENROL NOW for the new year RII30820 Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations

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Page 8 - Education & Career Development, 2023

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Education & Career Development

Edition 4

Free training for Victorians continues in 2024 under new deal THE Albanese and Allan Labor Governments will deliver up to 62,800 extra Fee-Free TAFE places in Victoria, ensuring more Victorians get the skills they need, for the jobs they want. Premier Jacinta Allan, Federal minister for skills and training Brendan O’Connor and Victorian minister for training and skills Gayle Tierney recently announced Commonwealth funding of almost $107 million to give tens of thousands more people access to education and training in sectors needing workers. Fee-Free TAFE supports training in areas of high demand, provides access to priority cohorts - including the most vulnerable and helps students by removing financial barriers to study. In Victoria, 143 unique occupations are in high demand, with careers in construction, health services and early childhood care among the most in-

demand priority sectors. The training push of 2024 will target sectors facing workforce challenges, with Fee-Free TAFE having already attracted a record 33,600 Victorian enrolments since the start of 2023. So far Free TAFE enrolments in Victoria have supported: • More than 13,600 enrolments in Care sector courses. • More than 4,200 enrolments in Construction sector courses. • More than 2,800 enrolments in Technology and Digital sector courses. • More than 7,700 enrolments in other areas of national and state priority. Victoria’s most enrolled Free TAFE courses include: • Diploma of Nursing with 4,833 enrolments. • Certificate IV in Training and Assessment with 2,426 enrolments. • Diploma of Community Services with 2,300 enrolments.

FREE TAFE: More Fee-Free TAFE places will be available in Victoria in 2024.

• Certificate IV in Cyber Security with 2,220 enrolments. • Certificate IV in Accounting and

Bookkeeping with 2,104 enrolments. Free TAFE has been a game-changer across Victoria, with more than

152,000 students saving more than $384 million in tuition fees since the program began in 2019. Students in a Diploma of

Nursing could save around $15,400, students studying a Diploma of Community Services could save around $7,800, and those looking to build a career pathway through a Certificate IV in Cyber Security could save around $3,800. The funding for FeeFree TAFE is in addition to federal funding through the National Skills Agreement (NSA) of up to $3.1 billion for Victoria. Set to begin in January 2024, the landmark five-year National Skills Agreement (NSA) was developed under principles agreed by National Cabinet to embed nationwide cooperation and strategic investment across Australia’s TAFE and training sector. For the first time in history, a new National Stewardship Model will make sure students are getting the skills they need in areas of national priority – and industry is getting a pipeline of the skilled workers it needs most.

Looking for the next exciting challenge in your career? Then you are looking in the right place! Burder AgAttachments offers a career opportunity and not just a job. You will be given plenty of opportunities to grow with our company and there will be continual training to ensure your success. Burder AgAttachments has more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing agricultural equipment with more than 600 dealers across Australia. Burder Industries is always on the lookout for passionate and like-minded professionals to jump on board with us. As a market leader in agricultural manufacturing industry, you can be certain that there will be no dull days and there will be plenty of fun challenges.

Steel Parts Team Member

Apprenticeships

Laser Parts sales and nesting

ғ Work as part of our external contract team am ғ Sorting, working and packing parts for supply upply ғ Ability to work to schedules and read from d drawings i ғ Suits a well organised person who takes pride in their work ғ On the job training provided

ғ Contracting, quoting and selling steel cut laser parts ғ Computerised nesting of parts for cutting ғ Managing production and delivery ғ Invoicing goods ғ Extensive training provided

ғ Cert III Engineering - Fabrication Trade ғ Cert III Engineering - Mechanical Trade ғ Immediate Start ғ Adult Applicants welcome

Product Assembler/Installer

ғ Final assembly and installation role ғ Installation of products to tractors and vehicles ғ Ability to work from drawings ғ Mechanical Aptitude ғ Training program to assist in transition into role

Industrial Spray Painter

ғ Preparation and painting of agricultural parts ғ On the job training provided ғ Potential for a traineeship ғ Part of the finishing team

burder.com.au/careers Burder AgAttachments, a family owned engineering company, seeking enthusiastic people to join our team.

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Careers @