WC160525SamReiher

TODAY

21o Frost then sunny

19o 17o 19o SAT

SUN

Weekend Edition

MON

Friday, May 16, 2025

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

$2.00 inc GST

Long dry boosts cattle sell-off Page 3

Anti-solar farm rally next week Page 4

TAKING FLIGHT Wangaratta ballerina Layla May is one of the hundreds of competitors who will take to the stage for the opening weekend of the Wangaratta Festival of Dance. Spectators are welcome to see all the dancers in action over five days of competition beginning on Friday, 16 May at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre. Story page 4 PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Pies, Rovers back in action Sport

Property tax turmoil to pass upper house Labor government gains enough crossbench support to pass controversial ESVF bill

A PROPERTY tax that’s expected to increase the fire services levy on Rural City of Wangaratta ratepayers by $3.2 million from 1 July, looked certain to pass the upper house on Thursday.

After the second reading of Fire Services Property

BY STEVE KELLY

skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Amendment (Emergency Services Volunteers Fund) Bill 2025, the vote was 22-18 in favour, with Labor MPs

and aligned members from the crossbench, including the Greens, Legalise Cannabis Party and Animal Justice Party members voting in favour of the controversial bill.

Liberal MP for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell

condemned the new tax which she said will collect $2.14 billion over three years.

She cited a study compiled

by Regional Cities Victoria showing Wangaratta city residents’ fire services levy will rise by 67 per cent

under the new tax.

Increases to other municipalities in the region would include Indigo 99pc, Benalla 81pc Mansfield 73pc, and Strathbogie 99pc.

Ms Lovell said it’s “money won’t come back into our communities to increase

capacity of firefighters or SES services”.

She described the tax as egregious and said it will impact the cost of living for all walks of life through higher costs for food production.

■ Continued page 2

Family owned and operated

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Getting together for wellbeing day

By SIMONE KERWIN WOMEN living with cancer are invited to attend a free wellbeing day in Wangaratta this month, to find support and spend time with others who understand their experiences.

The event will be held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Tuesday, 27 May from 10am.

Activities on the day will include a mindful movement session, a creative activity, and an information session.

The supplied morning tea and lunch will also give participants a chance to connect with other women affected by cancer.

Peechelba resident Naomi Mason, who has experienced breast cancer, said she was pleased to see this opportunity being arranged for local women with cancer.

“I will be attending to connect, share and support with other rural women living with or in remission from a cancer diagnosis,” she said.

Counterpart, a statewide SHARING EXPERIENCES: Northeast Health Wangaratta breast care nurse Erin Primmer, cancer survivors Naomi Pattie and service of Women’s Health Naomi Mason and NHW cancer and wellness service co-unit manager Sam Cooper are looking forward to the free wellbeing day for women with cancer, to be held in Wangaratta on 27 May. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling Victoria which supports and

Property tax turmoil to pass upper house

PROTEST: Emergency services volunteers and farmers alike showed up to the steps of Victorian Parliament on Tuesday to protest.

However, the state government was able to garner enough support from the upper house crossbench to get the new property tax over the line. PHOTO: Andy Wilson

■ From front page

“It will impact every Victorian right down to the poorest Victorian, it will drive up cost of living, the cost of food, and the cost of rents for the most vulnerable,” she told parliament.

Ms Lovell questioned the meagre amount to be spent on volunteer groups and said only $250 million of the $2.14 billion collected will be spent on volunteer organisations, with the rest to be spent on government operations.

She said money to be spent on the CFA and SES will include $70m on CFA fleet, a $62m increase VESEP (equipment) grant, $53m on VicEmergency and $30m on VICSES training and support.

“The ESVF will begin from 1 July, but the volunteer rebates don’t start

informs women with cancer to live well, has partnered with Northeast Health Wangaratta to organise this wellbeing day for women who are living with or have experienced cancer.

Counterpart manager Cindy Van Rooy said: “Counterpart provides peer support and information to women with cancer who live in Victoria.

“People often tell us that living in regional areas makes it harder to find support.

“We are so pleased to partner with Northeast Health Wangaratta to connect women living in the Rural City of Wangaratta with the support they need.

“We are grateful to the Victorian Government for funding this program.”

The Wangaratta wellbeing day is free for women who have had any type of cancer, and for their partners, family or friends. Bookings can be made online at counterpart.org.au/events or by calling Counterpart on 1300 781 500.

Registrations close at 12 noon on Tuesday, 20 May.

until 2026-27 – it’s sneaky and nasty,” she said.

Eastern Victoria and Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Jeff Bourman emphasised the impact on farmers at a time of drought and indicated the tax will end some of their businesses and impact some people’s mental health.

“I’ve been here 11 years and the Greens have talked about the cost of living, poor people and stand for

the people who are marginalised,” Mr Bourman said.

“This is going to hurt them so badly, the people who are trying to pay a mortgages, if they’re paying rental, that higher interest will be passed on.”

On Tuesday, about 400 volunteers or farmers rallied on the steps of parliament to protest the ESVF. Five fire trucks and other support vehicles blocked one lane of Spring Street as the crowd heard from

leaders of peak farming groups and opposition parliamentarians, with protesters chanting ‘scrap the tax’ between speeches.

VFF chair Brett Hosking said on Thursday that while the government has announced a 16 per cent reduction in the levy for farmers and a temporary pause for those in drought-declared areas, these concessions do little to ease the broader burden that will be felt across

regional and rural Victoria.

“The sheer reality is that this levy will create a crippling financial burden to farmers,” Mr Hosking said.

“This decision shows a clear disconnect between our state government and the day-to-day realities faced by those on the land.

“It almost feels like the worse this drought gets, the harder the government pushes to take more from farmers.”

f

yo

u r l o c a l co

m

S

SAUM VEMER R

6.00 12 MONTH FIXED TERM CONDITIONS APPLY.

%

y

A SUNNY

unit

A par

m

to

YOUR LOCAL

RADIO STATION

livestreaming

www.oakfm.com.au

Since 1990

LIVE & LOCAL BROADCAST

✆5721 5200 www.winsec.com.au

Wang Magpies v Nth Albury

43 Reid Street Wangaratta E: info@winsec.com.au

Sat 17th May 1pm

Important Notice: Win Securities Ltd, AFSL Licence No. 240901, Australian Credit Licence No. 240901. Win Securities Ltd offers investments in Winsec Notes and is not a Bank. All investments involve risk and investors risk losing some or all of their principal investment.

The risk of investment in Win Securities Ltd is set out in our current Prospectus lodged with ASIC and dated 27 November 2024 and should be read and understood before investing.

Investments in Winsec Notes may only be made by completing the application form that accompanies the Prospectus.

Copies of our Prospectus are available at our office situated at 43 Reid Street Wangaratta or on our website at www.winsec.com.au or by calling 5721 5200.

Effective 12 December 2024. Subject to change without notice. *Conditions apply.

104 Murdoch Rd Wangaratta

5722 1569

admin@oakfm.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 3

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Fortune favours the brave at sale About 3000 head offloaded due to dry conditions; water storages down; restrictions loom

BY STEVE KELLY

skelly@ nemedia.com.au

IT has been the driest start to the year in Wangaratta in six years with 119.4mm recorded, just 0.6mm more than that previous dry year to date in 2019.

Zero rain has been recorded at the Wangaratta Weather Station this month by the Bureau of Meteorology and only 3.2mm fell in April.

Whitfield in the south usually has a healthy rainfall but just 2.4mm has been recorded since the end of March.

It has impacted local cattle producers, with about 3000 head offloaded at Thursday’s May store cattle sale, with weights noticeably lower due to the poor conditions.

AWN livestock agent Ryan Hussey said people were banking on rain around ANZAC Day, but it never happened.

“There’s no growth, no grass and the last resort is to sell now,” he said.

“The cattle on offer are extremely well bred, plenty of frame, not so much with the weight, but they are the cattle you’d traditionally sell in August/September - that’s how far forward they are.”

Producers from southern NSW, Victoria and South Australia were selling, with stock predominantly heading to northern NSW and Queensland.

But it’s not all doom and gloom with an auctioneer announcing just before bidding that “fortune favours the brave”.

GOOD BUY: There was a healthy turnout for the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange May store cattle sale with most of the cattle heading to the northern states.

PHOTOS: Steve Kelly

YOUR CALL: AWN livestock agent Ryan Hussey said the cattle were extremely well bred with good frame but lighter in weight.

It’s a sentiment that Mr Hussey followed when speaking about the season last year which was similar to the current conditions.

“For those who spent a bit on fertilisers, they had as good a spring as they could have asked for,” he said.

For residential and commercial water users, North East Water this week called on Myrtleford residents to reduce their usage as ongoing dry conditions, low stream flows and reduced raw water storage levels point to possible water restrictions in the coming months.

But the authority said restrictions for residential and commercial customers in Wangaratta are not expected at this stage.

Environment, systems and op-

erations general manager John Day said with permanent water saving rules in place and by encouraging customers always to conserve water, there are no triggers for change to present conditions in Wangaratta.

“But it is dry and we need rain across the North East,” he said.

“We’re monitoring the situation closely.”

The low rainfall has impacted district storages with Lake Buffalo and Lake William Hovell dropping to concerning levels.

Lake Buffalo is just over half full at 53.31 per cent, while Lake William Hovell is at 44.18pc full.

Dartmouth Dam is 75.21pc full, compared to 94.16pc at the same time last year, and Lake Nillah-

cootie in the south is at 47.48pc compared to 78.40pc 12 months ago.

Region wide all storages are at 54.01pc capacity or 5.248ML below full.

A graph on the latter shows a sharp decline compared to the previous three years and unless there is rain soon restrictions could intensify for irrigators.

GMW Water delivery services general manager Mark Bailey said storage levels tend to reach their lowest point during autumn before increasing during the winter and into spring.

“Low rainfall and high irrigation demand have seen water levels at Lake Buffalo and Lake William Hovell steadily decrease throughout 2025,” he said.

“As irrigation demand is decreasing, water levels in these storages are likely to remain steady or increase if they receive inflows from rainfall.

“There are currently restrictions in place for diversion customers on some streams in the Ovens and King systems.

“Whether further restrictions are implemented will be dependent on rainfall and stream flows in the coming months.”

Alleged Wangaratta bandit wanted by police AN alleged serial Wangaratta thief who allegedly crashed a stolen vehicle, burgled a nearby business and left his passenger seriously injured is wanted by police.

A warrant was issued for the 28-yearold man at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday after failing to appear.

He is wanted on several charges of trespassing, theft and assault within the rural city over the past eight months.

The 28-year-old is alleged to be a driver of a stolen vehicle in Milawa on 13 September last year when he was charged with driving dangerously causing injury and avoiding police.

His vehicle allegedly became stuck in trees after he lost control driving along Snow Road around 7:30pm as he was exiting the Milawa township, with a 29-year-old female passenger trapped in the vehicle.

She was later airlifted to The Alfred Hospital with suspected head injuries while the man allegedly fled the scene without assisting the woman or reporting the incident.

He is alleged to have then broken into Milawa Bakery where he helped himself to an iced coffee and a block of cheese, as well as allegedly stealing $600 cash, a jumper and medical supplies valued at $1000.

The 28-year-old was charged with stealing the $10,000 Toyota Camry the same day, driving while disqualified and stealing number plates at Milawa.

The day prior he was charged with stealing petrol in Tallarook while driving disqualified on the Hume Freeway.

He has been charged with trespassing various other Wangaratta properties including an attempted theft of a trailer on 28 February this year, where he allegedly caused $300 worth of damage to a paddock gate and trailer jockey.

The 28-year-old allegedly stole a tattoo gun, beauty products and cash valued at $1200 while being charged with trespassing on 18 December.

On Christmas Day, he was charged with stealing tobacco, tobacco papers, tobacco filters, wallet with cards valued at $200 from a Wangaratta property and allegedly using the stolen card to purchase $136 of goods.

He was also charged with assault using a shock absorber the same day and assaulting a female on 25 March this year, damaging her phone.

On 5 November and 13 November last year, he is charged with breaking into separate Wangaratta properties and stealing food and drink from one and 4L of milk from the other.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Community to fire up Australia’s on Meadow Creek solar Biggest Morning

By STEVE KELLY

Tea next week

THE Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group will hold its Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and display at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street on Thursday, May 22.

The morning tea will run from 10am to 11.30am and entry is $10 with all proceeds going towards cancer research, support and education programs.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

TEMPERATURES: Friday

Max 21 Min 0 Frost then sunny

Saturday Max 19 Min 1 Frost then sunny Sunday

Max 17 Min 3 Mostly sunny

Monday

Max 19 Min 1 Frost then sunny

Tuesday

Max 19 Min 0 Frost then sunny

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

0.0 mm

0.0 mm

Lake Buffalo

0.4 mm

1.4 mm

Cheshunt

0.0 mm

0.0 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Thursday

NEWS TIPS Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Fax: 5721 9447

CONTACTS POSTAL ADDRESS: 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0101 DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0139 Fax: 5721 9447 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Website: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Find us on: 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.

Member

THE last rally against the Meadow Creek solar facility prior to objections closing will be held on Thursday, 22 May at 10am, meeting at the Oxley General Store.

Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group is calling on the local and regional community to unite against the proposed 566-hectare solar facility on agricultural land.

The group is holding a rally that will have Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy, One Nation MP for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrell, Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant, and Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton as guest speakers.

A convoy will then make its way from Oxley to the site of proposed facility and finishing at Bobinawarrah Hall.

The planning permit has already attracted 420 objections and submissions to the application that closes on 10 June.

A major factor in the uprising is the Victorian government’s scrapping of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) process for objectors on all renewable energy facility applications in Victoria.

This is a right that has historically been attached to planning issues.

However, if the government makes a decision to refuse the permit, group member and nearby landowner Jess Conroy said the proponents still have 28 days to appeal the decision via VCAT. “It’s a major disappointing thing that the proponents can actually go to VCAT, but if we lose we have to take the environment minister to the Supreme Court only on ground of policy and

NOT IN OUR BACKYARD: THE MEADOW CREEK AND EXPANDED COMMUNITY WILL AGAIN RALLY AT OXLEY AGAINST THE PROPOSED MEADOW CREEK SOLAR FACILITY NEXT THURSDAY.

procedures, it can’t be about the merit of the decision made,” Ms Conroy said.

“If we lose we have to go to the Supreme Court and pay all the costs as well, it’s so unfair.”

The application has been delayed as it triggered a controlled action under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act due to the endangered Sloane’s froglet, critically endangered Regent honeyeater, and the vulnerable Murry cod which habitat the area.

“The EPBC Act requirements were given to the proponent and they needed to resubmit the application as to how they’re going to mitigate the risks to these spe-

cies of significance,” Ms Conroy said.

“Ideally they should have, if they cared about the community, answered all of our concerns about flooding, traffic impact through Oxley, the intersections, and the roads. but they haven’t done any of that as it’s best practice, but they’re not required to.

“The group hasn’t heard from the proponents in eight months, they still won’t meet with us.”

The new environmental impacts document has been re-submitted and the group has members, who work in the field looking over the updated version before the new closing date for objections.

Mr McCurdy said the people

of Meadow Creek are fighting hard against “a rampant dictatorial Labor Government in Spring Street”.

“They are fighting for our environment and our farmers who can no longer afford to be steamrolled on the altar of Jacinta Allan’s inner city agenda,” he said.

“Renewable energy is important, but it needs to be done right.

“This community is not the right place, and I will be standing side by side with these hardworking locals protecting our most fertile farmland.”

For more information on the group’s campaign visit www. meadowcreeksolar.com.au or call John Conroy on 0427 273 892.

Step by step, dancers ready for Wangaratta Festival of Dance

By ANITA MCPHERSON ACROSS the region, soloists and dance troupes have been preparing for the Wangaratta Festival of Dance which begins on Friday, 16 May at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

Over five days of competition, hundreds of dancers from studios in Victoria and New South Wales will take their turn under lights on the Alpine MDF stage in a celebration of dance, showmanship and choreography.

Among those taking part will be Wangaratta dancer Layla May who is competing as a soloist in the genres of ballet and jazz.

Layla has been dancing with Danzworx studio in Wangaratta for about 10 years, and Danzworx owner director Michelle Parisi says she is among more than 60 young students from her Wangaratta and Yarrawonga studios who will take part in the festival this year.

She said they are aged from as young as six to their mid-teens and

DRESS REHEARSAL: Wangaratta’s Layla May from Danzworx will compete as a soloist in the genres of ballet and jazz at the Wangaratta Festival of Dance this weekend.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling are well prepared for this event as it is one of nine competitions they’ll compete in this year.

“They love to compete locally because they can perform in front of family and friends, and we also want to do well as representatives of Wangaratta,” she said.

“We also want to get the audience to come and see dance, to show everyone how great dance is, and how fantastic it is for kids

in so many different ways.”

Michelle said the festival gives young local dancers the opportunity to perform on a professional stage in front of a live audience as well as a judge who will critique their performance, not only building on their dance and performance skills, but also their confidence.

She said dancing through COVID, even when it meant rehears-

ing outdoors in Merriwa Park at times and competing by video, kept the students physically and mentally active and engaged during what was a difficult time for them.

“To be a really good dancer you have to be able to feel the music through your body and interpret it, and it’s a great skill to teach a child - to connect with those feelings,” she said.

“Layla is an example of someone who shines when she comes on stage - it’s her second year competing - and she is a beautiful soul and a very dedicated dancer.

“This festival gives young dancers like Layla the opportunity to feel like a prima ballerina and to have their hard work rewarded.”

The Wangaratta Festival of Dance will be held on Friday, 16 May from 4pm to 8.45pm, then on 16, 17, 18, 24 and 25 May from 9am each day, with more information available at wpacc.com. au or visit Wangaratta Festival of Dance on Facebook, with audience members welcome and entry free.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 5

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Major watermain break damages Rowan Street road

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN DRY clay soil below ground was suspected to have caused a major watermain break on Rowan Street on Wednesday, according to North East Water.

North East Water’s Wangaratta-based reticulation team

responded to the break near the Orwell Street intersection around 3pm and worked on repairs for more than six hours.

A North East Water spokesperson said the road surface in the area was affected due to the partial flooding and it had been temporarily

patched as it awaits full resurfacing next week.

North East Water’s environment, systems and operations general manager, John Day, said the movement of continued, drying clay soil affecting below-ground pipes is suspected to have caused the break.

LMCT 12188

EO DEALS ON PRE-LOVED VEHICLES TOO! FY

D R I V E A W A Y

D R I V E A W A Y

TOYOTA $112,499 2021 LANDCRUISER $112,999

GXL MANUAL 4X4 DOUBLE CAB KING OF WORK & 50,000km | Manual | 4.5LDiesel CCR598 PLAY!

2021 TOYOTA HIACE

Meeting the needs of growing families NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW), the health service has launched a fundraising appeal to raise $70,000 for two urgently needed Panda Neonatal Infant Resuscitation Units.

As the region continues to grow, so too does the demand for safe, high-quality maternity and newborn care.

The current neonatal cots, which have served the hospital for more than a decade, are now due for replacement.

The new Panda units are advanced resuscitation and warming systems designed to support newborns in their most critical first moments of life.

Jacqueline Webb, Nursing Unit Manager of NHW’s Maternity Unit, said the investment is crucial to supporting the local community.

“After a peak in January

NHW launches fundraising appeal for newborn care equipment

and February of this year we’re proud that so many families choose NHW to welcome their babies into the world,” Ms Webb said.

“But with that comes responsibility, to make sure we have the right equipment, ready to go, for any situation that arises in those precious first minutes after birth.

“These units allow us to stabilise newborns who may

need breathing support or temperature regulation immediately after delivery.

“They’re used frequently, this isn’t a ‘just in case’ piece of equipment.

“It’s something our team relies on, often multiple times a week.”

The Panda Resuscitation Units will be used in both delivery and theatre settings, ensuring every baby born at NHW has immediate access to life-saving care if needed.

NHW is calling on the community to get behind the appeal.

Donations can be made through the hospital’s official appeal page: nhw.org.au/appeal.

Your local news Anywhere, anytime Check out our digital editions! wangarattachronicle.com.au/digital-editions

VIN:JTFHB8CP206024180

$81,999

34,000km | Auto | 3.0LDiesel

2020 MERCEDES-BENZ

COMMUTER SUPER LWB

GIVE THEM THE BEST START: (From left) Jacqueline Webb, Nursing Unit Manager, mum Laura Shanahan and babies Montana and Banks who prove how important neonatal care is at NHW.

FORD $81,444 2023 EVEREST

GLC300 SPORTS AUTO

ULTIMATE PEOPLE MOVER

D R I V E A W A Y

STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE

BMR243 D R I V E A W A Y

PLATINUM AUTO 4WD LUXURY & MUSCLE

2CG9CL

2021 MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT GLS QF AUTO 4X4 MY21

READY FOR ANYTHING!

VIN:MMAGUKS10MH004895 D R I V E A W A Y

$71,990 $74,999

$62,999 $63,888

$41,888 $42,990

52,551km | Auto | 2.8LDiesel

36,336km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

86,068km | Auto | 2.4LDiesel

2021 TOYOTA RAV4

2022 LDV T60

GXL AUTO EFOUR

THE SMART SUV

2BW2UM

2023 TOYOTA COROLLA

MAX PRO 4X4 DUAL CAB

D R I V E A W A Y

VIN:LSFAM11C0NA162390

ASCENT SPORT HYBRID

JOBSITE TO CAMPSITE

D R I V E A W A Y

$39,999 $41,999

$30,999 $34,925

56,281km | Auto | 2.5LHybrid

28,784km | Auto | 2.0LDiesel

2020 HYUNDAI KONA ELITE AUTO AWD MY20

SMALL SUV WITH BIG ATTITUDE!

BIJ395

PREMIUM 5GEN AWD

ALL STYLE WITH 7 SEATS D R I V E A W A Y

$27,999

86,362km | Auto | 1.6LPetrol

60,031km | X-tronic Auto | 2.5LPetrol

D R I V E A W A Y

GL AUTO

SPACE, SMARTS, & STYLE

ABI015

146,204km | Auto | 2.0LDiesel

2022 SUZUKI SWIFT

ST-L T32 AUTO 2WD

SASSY, AND READY TO ZIP!

JSAAZC83S00415608

$23,999 $25,999

2014 NISSAN X-TRAIL

GL AUTO

RUGGED MEETS REFINED

2AN4XF D R I V E A W A Y

$28,888 $29,999 2023 SUZUKI SWIFT

$30,998 $30,999 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK

ST T32

D R I V E A W A Y

NEW WORLD ECONOMY

D R I V E A W A Y

53,811km | Auto | 1.8LHybrid

2022 NISSAN X-TRAIL

2CJ3RV

VIN: JTNKE3BE803508814

D R I V E A W A Y

BLUE BEAUTY

1NA5XO D R I V E A W A Y

$22,998 $22,999

$22,445 $22,999

$21,999 $23,499

53,804km | CVT | 1.2LPetrol

56,736km | Auto | 2.5LPetrol

25,518km | Auto | 1.2LPetrol

2018 NISSAN X-TRAIL

2011 MITSUBISHI ASX

2018 NISSAN QASHQAI N-TEC J11 SERIES 2 AUTO

READY TO GO!

1MF7LW D R I V E A W A Y

$19,998 $20,999

ST-L T32 AUTO 2WD

SMOOTH OPERATOR

1MT3AB D R I V E A W A Y

XA AUTO 2WD MY11

COMPACT SUV, BIG VALUE!

ZYT399 D R I V E A W A Y

$17,337 $17,999

$15,888

179,869km | Auto | 2.5LPetrol

153,441km | CVT | 2.0LPetrol

167,000km | Auto | 2.0LPetrol

*Conditions apply - See in store

WANGARATTA

M A Z DA

Dial-a-Deal 5721 5677

Scan QR code to view our entire range of Used Cars

Visit us at TEMPLETON STREET

MOVING YOU... ONE MILE AT A TIME

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Nostalgic trip down memory lane for time capsule

By SIMONE KERWIN FOND memories were rekindled on Saturday when the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta hosted the unearthing of a time capsule in Rotary Park.

Organised in the late 1970s as a fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Appin Park, the time capsule was originally buried in 1977 on the corner of Rowan and Baker streets, but was then relocated to the Evans Street side of Rotary Park when development took place on the original site.

It was sealed by then-City of Wangaratta Mayor Kevin Howard, with the subscribers’ envelopes inside scheduled to be returned to them in 2025.

The Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta held a barbecue to celebrate the unearthing on Saturday, and some of those subscribers were present in a gathering of about 60 people to see the time capsule emerge from the ground.

Among them was 92-yearold Dennis Edwards, who had almost forgotten that he and his late friend and Superior Joinery business partner Leo Jordon had both contributed to the fundraiser and deposited envelopes sched-

▲ DELIGHTFUL DISCOVERY: JOHN G BROWN WITH THE 1958 VINTAGE PORT WHICH HE BOTTLED AND HIS FATHER, JOHN C BROWN, CONTRIBUTED TO THE TIME CAPSULE COLLECTION.

HEAVE-HO: Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta members unearth the time capsule on Saturday.

MEMORIES: Original subscribers and their connections peruse the names on the envelopes ROLLING BACK THE YEARS: Dennis Edwards with his time capsule envelope and its contents, which he reclaimed at Saturday’s unearthing.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin revealed when the time capsule was unearthed. uled to be revealed in 2025.

“I had no idea what was in it,” he said.

Opening the slightly waterstained but still intact envelope, he discovered an invoice for cupboards built by Superior Joinery for former City of Wangaratta Mayor Doug Evans (who passed away last year), allowing

comparison of price changes in 48 years; an article clipped from The Chronicle about the business’s 20-year milestone; as well as photos of Dennis and Leo celebrating that anniversary, and of its original location on the corner of Reid and Chisholm streets and its second premises in Ashmore Street.

“It was a bit nostalgic, particularly as Leo passed away 40 years ago, it was a bit emotional; we had a 26-year partnership and we were best friends,” Dennis said.

The two schoolmates went into business on the site where they had completed their apprenticeships, which is now the Pinsent Hotel car-

park, and grew it to the point where they relocated to the Ashmore Street premises.

Dennis’ son later took over the business, and has since retired.

Dennis said he was glad he’d attended the opening of the time capsule on the weekend, where he saw several other people opening

contributions made by themselves or family members.

John G Brown was another delighted attendee at Saturday’s unearthing, where he was presented with a perfectly intact bottle of 1958 vintage port which he had bottled and his father, John C Brown, had contributed to the time capsule in 1977.

WDSS launches first Mini Woolies in Wangaratta

By GRACE FREDSBERG

WANGARATTA District Specialist School (WDSS) was the 101st site across Australia and New Zealand, and the first in Wangaratta, to open their very own Mini Woolies on Thursday, 8 May. Mini Woolies is a Woolworths Group initiative aimed at supporting young people with disability to acquire a broad range of realworld skills.

An interactive, simulated Woolworths environment is installed in schools, tertiary education facilities and disability service providers, complete with fresh produce and various supermarket products, a checkout and shopping baskets.

Hayley Nolan, one of three teachers who initiated the Mini Woolies project, said it weaved in perfectly with the school’s mission to set up students for success and opportunities once they’ve left school.

“We can have the students learn all about how to stock shelves, understanding how ‘best before’ and expiry dates work, organise ticketing and signage for products, learning how to operate the registers, working with money and so many communication skills that are required in a retail setting,” she said.

THE FRESH FOOD PEOPLE: Charlie Blake (left), Lily Whalley and Levi Jago show off the produce at the Mini Woolies site.

SHOPPING: Indi MP Helen Haines (far left) and Woolworths chief risk officer Carly Richards (far right) join WDSS students Levi Jago (left), Lily Whalley and Charlie Blake in the Mini Woolies initiative.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling Ms Nolan said the launch was a “terrific success” and students were excited to have Helen Haines and Woolworths staff attend the opening.

“The students showed off their skills by having some shoppers on the day and so they had to operate registers and help with the shelf stacking,” she said.

Students were also thrilled to take part in the initiative

and have found the experience beneficial.

“It is so much fun to work in the shop,” WDSS student Sam Villela said.

“The aprons and badges are cool.”

Lily Whalley said working on the cash register made her feel “more confident”, while Riley Coyne was “proud of the shop”.

The Mini Woolies site can also be used in a variety of

contexts outside of the simulated supermarket experience, and Ms Nolan said all year levels can get involved.

“Our younger students will have an opportunity to come and shop and get used to selecting products and handling cash,” she said.

“Our middle years and senior students will gain experience working in the store and shopping too.

AT YOUR ASSISTANCE: In this simulated supermarket experience, Lily Whalley takes on the role of a Woolworths staff member, complete with the uniform.

“We will use the store stock as part of our cooking program over the next few months.

“Students will also then assist in ordering new stock, stacking shelves and keeping the store clean.”

Sarah Corey, general manager of enterprise operations and Mini Woolies at Woolworths Group, said launching the Mini Woolies has been a great experience.

She was appreciative of the teamwork between local store team members in Wangaratta, the team at Fujitsu and the school community, and looks forward to what this space will offer.

“We hope this new space will provide a unique learning experience for the students, and we’re excited to see how it will help build confidence and achieve their goals,” Ms Corey said.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 7

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Property tax passes, but it’s on the nose THE state government was on track to push the Emergency Services Volunteers Fund through the upper house with the Greens, Legalise Cannabis and Animal Justice Party all voting in support.

It’s a bill that attracted a large amount of pushback, mainly from the people who stand to lose the most financially, the primary producers who own the land.

North East Media mastheads, including the Wangaratta Chronicle, have run several stories since it was introduced last December but stakeholders haven’t been saying anything positive about the new tax.

Local farmers, CFA firefighters, general business owners and local councils have all voiced their concerns with the tax, especially in difficult financial times.

Multiple MPs against the ESVF bill spoke about the extent of suffering, farmers are currently experiencing in Victoria.

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes told parliament on Thursday that she consulted with councils, volunteer groups and farmers after the bill was introduced in December and from this feedback she has dropped the levy amount on rural landholders from 83 cents per $1000 capital improved value to 71.8 cents.

The news of the reduction was met with groans in parliament.

Emergency service volunteers will be able to apply for an exemption on the levy for their primary place of residence, however, this is cold comfort for many volunteers who are also farmers with multiple parcels of land they use for primary production but they will be paying more under the ESVF. It’s worth noting that the Chronicle contacted all of the Northern Victorian MPs and all of them replied to our enquiries except the Animal Justice Party MP. It’s an interesting move by Labor with this tax considering it’s an election year in 2026.

CROSSWORD NATIONAL CROSSWORDPUZZLE 14395 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

9

8 10 12

11 14

13

15

16

17 20 22

23

18

24

25 26 NATIONAL CROSSWORD 27

1

8 35

12

13

19

21

2

3

32

33

28

429

5

9

34

10

36

11

37

14

1639

15

38

20

21

14395 630

17

40

731

18

19

ACROSS Abstract ACROSS 612 Choral work 2 Ballot 22 choice 13 Shady garden recesses 23 24 Sharp choice 715Goal 25Ballot Paradise 18 Abstract Wan 258 Flower 26 12 59Sharp Chink 19 Vendor garden 810Flower Web 21 Shady Ministers’ salaries31 27 28 29 13 30 Lobby 23recesses Pays attention 911 Chink 34 12 Exclude 32 33 24 Table-shaped hill 15 10 Web 14 Transmitted 26 Paradise Violently hot 36 35 16 Detached 29 Wan Of a city 18 11 Lobby 17 Copies 30 Liturgies 37 19 12 Excludeproperty 20 Landed 31 Vendor Out38of sorts 22 Nature spirit 33 Garble 21 Ministers’ salaries 14 Transmitted 40 39 25 Long pace 23 Pays attention 16 Detached 27 Throw 28 Come upon unawares ACROSS 12 24 Abstract Table-shaped hill 17 Copies 32 Lacerate 2 Ballot choice 13 Shady garden recesses 26Paradise Violently hot 20 Landed 34 Duck with property soft down 5 Sharp 15 35 Avarice 8 Flower 18 29Wan Of a city 22 Nature spirit 36 Curved 9 Chink 19 Vendor 30Ministers’ Liturgies 25 Long pace palm 37Web Low-growing 10 21 salaries Solution No.14395 38Lobby Exploits 11 23 attention 31 Pays Out of sorts 27 Throwof lyric poetry 39 Writer 12 Exclude 24 Table-shaped hill 33Violently Garble hot 28 Come upon 40Transmitted Headland 14 26 16 Detached 29 Of a city unawares DOWN 17 Copies 30 Liturgies 32 Lacerate 1Landed Melodies 20 property 31 Out of sorts 2Nature Essential 34 Duckspirit with soft down 33 Garble 22 3Long Performed surgery 25 pace 35 Efface Avarice 274Throw 5Come Prayer ending 36 Curved 28 upon unawares 6 Choral work 32 Lacerate 37 Low-growing palm 7 Goal 34 Duck with soft down 38Avarice Exploits 35 36 39Curved Writer of lyric poetry 37 Low-growing palm SOLUTION Solution No.14395 40Exploits Headland 38

T V O T E A C U T E R I M A A T U L I P N T E L A E N T R Y S E N T G D E B A R I S O L A T E D A P E S W T E S T A T E G E L E M E N T A L L E I L L S T R I D E S U R P R I S E T O S S R T E A R E I D E R B E N T E G R E E D I N I P A D E E D S N E S S Y O D I S T

DOWN

DOWN 1 Melodies 1 Melodies 22 Essential Essential 33 Performed Performedsurgery surgery 445 Efface Effaceending Prayer 56 Choral Prayerwork ending 7 Goal

T V O T E A C U T E R I M A A T U L I P N T E L A E N T R Y S E N T G D E B A R I S O L A T E D A P E S W T E S T A T E G E L E M E N T A L L E I L L S T R I D E S U R P R I S E T O S S R T E A R E I D E R B E N T E G R E E D I N I P A D E E D S N E S S Y O D I S T

39 Writer of lyric poetry 40 Headland

FACEBOOK users this week commented on an ugly vandalism attack at Paradise Falls.

Jade Hancock: They would be loving all this attention I bet. Sad Kevin Johns: I would love to see the people responsible for this atrocity put on display in the Main Street of Wangaratta and publicly shamed by the community, not to mention paying for the clean up of the area they have

• •

desecrated. This is just not on!

Takeshi Covac: The graffiti community is also outraged, I’ve posted in the relevant groups. Those responsible are likely to be given up to police Raymond Andison: This is a place of deep spiritual importance, and what’s happened here is not just disrespectful — “it’s a violation of culture.”

Luis F Simian: I hope Parks Victoria can Pressure

• • •

wash this off ASAP

•

Cathy van Gastelen: Luis

F Simian. I don’t know if it can be pressure washed. It isn’t on granite so the wall will be very hard to clean without more damage done.

Alli Baker: Cathy van Gastelen plus parks wouldn’t lug a petrol generator and pressure washer down there!!

Luis F Simian: Cathy van Gastelen in another 100 years it will return to its natural state anyway

• •

Post a •reward Yep let’s • just put it all over social William Magnus: Steven Cook:

media so the artist gets free advertising…

•Disgusting •Disgraceful •Disgusting! No-talent oxygen thieves!

I don’t • even know where this place Cheriel Devine: Greg Benton:

Linda Simpson:

Lyn Mckinley:

is

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

15,261

Rededication of Boer War Memorial A REDEDICATION of the South African Soldiers Memorial will take place on Sunday, 25 May at noon, at 31 Albert Road South Melbourne.

The memorial is part of the ANZAC Station Precinct.

The granite obelisk South African Soldiers Memorial was one of Victoria’s earliest war memorials and is adorned with bronze plaques and a wreath with four sandstone lions.

It was made possible through public subscription to honour the Australians who served and fell during the South African War. This memorial is the only one built in Victoria to commemorate all Australians in the war.

This significant occasion will commemorate the sacrifices made by 23,000 Australian’s soldiers and nurses and the sacrifice of 1000 Australian’s killed in action, died of wounds, in accidents, or from disease in the South African War (1899–1902).

This memorial reaffirms the enduring importance of this historical landmark.

Your presence would greatly enhance the event and highlight its importance to the community and the state of Victoria.

A march will be led by the 4th - 8th Light Horse Troop, the Historical Re-enactment Society of Australia in Boer War uniforms, with banners and flags.

Distinguished guests, descendants, local school students, Scouts, and Girl Guides will step off from the path south of the memorial at 11.45am.

The service will commence at noon at the memorial with the che ceremony due to conclude at 1pm.

Descendants of those who served in the war and the general public are encouraged to attend.

Peter Kemp, Boer War Association of Victoria

All praise for Klemm’s view of the world IN response to Keiran Klemm’s letter to the Chronicle, May 9.

Knowing you are a long time local farmer, I always read with interest your letters, full of knowledge and facts due to many years of your expertise in farming.

You have relentlessly pointed out unfactual letters to the Chronicle.

The ignorance of a small group does all our heads in.

We need more letter writers like you Keiran, you give many of us a reason to hold our heads high and keep pushing the truth.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Gemma Duursma, Esther Duursma and Belinda Field were among the crowd who spent their Saturday morning at Zac’s Place to build community and support the Wang Night Shelter with a suitcase market and breakfast fundraiser to support those sleeping rough and doing it tough.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

ness campaign.

We are outnumbered by a very unusual Laurie’s story and the 2023 campaign led to group that you and I will never understand. more than 25,000 bowel screening tests being Sadly, a lot of these people are in our age completed. group and should know better.

It is estimated this will help save an estimatPat Chick, Wangaratta ed 115 Victorians lives over the next 40 years.

There are many ways your story could encourage Victorians to prioritise bowel screening, including us sharing your story on our social channels or website or to your BOWEL cancer is the second biggest cause local media outlet.

If you have a bowel cancer story, we’d like of cancer death in Australia but if detected to hear it. early, more than 90 per cent of bowel canYour story could help raise awareness cers can be successfully treated. about the importance of doing bowel Bowel screening is one of the most effecscreening and encourage others to particitive ways to detect the early signs of bowel cancer, but unfortunately only 42.6 per cent pate through the National Bowel Cancer of eligible Victorians are participating in the Screening Program.

Do you want to make a difference and National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. help save lives? Head to cancervic.org.au/ Australians aged 45-74 are eligible to do screening-story for more information. a free bowel screening test every two years To learn more about bowel screening and through the National Bowel Cancer Screenthe National Bowel Cancer Screening Proing Program.

People aged 50-74 get the bowel screening gram, visit cancervic.org.au/bowel.

Kate Broun, Cancer Council Victoria kit in the mail every two years, while people aged 45-49 can request their first bowel screening kit through the National Cancer Screening Register.

Since 2017, Cancer Council Victoria has led statewide campaigns to encourage Victorians to participate in bowel screening.

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is Our research shows that having a real given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. person’s story at the heart of our campaigns Every letter must have your full name, address encourages others to do their bowel screening test and can start important conversations and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for between loved ones about the importance of reasons of space, content or legibility. screening.

That’s why we’re looking for individuals new Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au to share their bowel screening story in 2025.

Post Letters to the Editor, Bowel cancer survivor Laurie shared his 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677 cancer screening story with us in 2023 as part of a statewide bowel screening aware-

Help out by sharing your bowel screening story

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 9

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the ‘volunteer fund’ tax, which will be voted on in the Victorian upper house.

Cindy Knight: Yeap well that’s what happens when you vote Labor back in William Magnus: Disgraceful tax grab Helen Senior: William Magnus that’s Labor for you Kylie Lee: And people voted for the idiot..

Josie Hurley: Kylie Lee not everyone

• • • • •

•

Linda Simpson: This Tax will impact everyone. With a 109% increase for Farmers alone, food prices will rise even further. Absolutely irresponsible in a worsening Cost Of Living crisis!

Trevor Dawson: Greedy Government Facebook users this week commented on a possible fourbin waste and recycling system for households throughout Wangaratta.

Cindy Knight: How much will be added to our rates

• •

• •

Nathan Andrew: Cindy Knight equivalent to the yearly recycling charge as the yellow bin Ashley Clough: Cindy Knight I was told by a councilor that rates are capped and no extra charges are allowed for the bin. Apparently it’s not a council decision, but is forced on them by State Govt. Wait and see Melissa Poulton: Can we opt out?

Nathan Andrew: Melissa Poulton unlikely youl be able too I’d say

• •

•share 1 or 2? Could a small street • I think this would Sue CB:

Robbie Alexander Photography and Fishing:

have been a great idea 2 years ago, but now that my empty stubbies are worth 10c each I reckon it will take me 10 years to fill one purple bin. LOL I have very little glass waste.

Simon Kindred: Robbie Alexander Photography and Fishing no glass on the river. At all. Full stop Adam Martin: We got one it’s great I use it for all sort of stuff

• •

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

15,261

Tweet Ovens & Murray FNL @omfnl

X USERS this week commented on horse racing, the new platform which opened at Wangaratta Station in early April, and a fatal crash in Wangaratta South.

wangarattarovers Follow

Congratulations to Sam Comensoli on making his senior debut as the 812th player to play senior football for the Wangaratta Rovers Football and Netball Club. Sam was presented his guernsey by Toby Murray, along with current Rovers coach Sam Murray

Weeding Racing @craigweeding Following a little break, we’re back racing on our home deck today, with five chances on a good eight-race Wangaratta program. Good luck, Jake, Justin, Blaike, and connections.

Inland Rail @Inland_Rail ICYMI: The new Wangaratta Station platform opened in early April. A big thank you to the Wangaratta, Victoria, community for their patience during the upgrade works Victoria Police @VictoriaPolice Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Wangaratta South early hours this morning.

It’s understood that a vehicle left the road and crashed into trees on Warby Range Road about 12.30am.

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

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

The Reclaim Energy CO2 Heat Pump Hot Water System is the perfect hot water solution

$1K FOR MAY!

ENERGY EFFICIENT & MONEY SAVING

Dont miss our

BIGGEST

give away ever!

Get the ultimate pool heating package when you sign up a pool in May for just $1,000!

NORMALLY $9,899, ALL THIS IS YOURS FOR ONLY $1,000!* *Offer available to the first 10 customers only •

IT’S ROUND 6 IN THE SS&A OVENS & MURRAY FNL Join us for some exciting Round 6 action, as teams battle it out across Yarrawonga, Corowa, Wangaratta, Wodonga, and Myrtleford. Find the full fixture on our website.

BOOST FUNCTION FOR CONTINUOUS HOT WATER

6 STAR

SUPERB COLD WEATHER PERFORMANCE

ENERGY RATING

BUILT-IN FROST & LEGIONELLA CONTROL OPERATION

• OASIS HEAT PUMP 500 MICRON POOL BLANKET avaliable in 3 colours • STAINLESS STEEL POOL BLANKET ROLLER

+

=

$1,000

*Terms and Conditions apply

www.oipools.com (03) 5743 1060 oipools@outlook.com

5722 9896

www.obriensplumbing.com.au

17-19 Muntz St, Wangaratta

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

You’re fine working alone,

until you’re not.

Working alone is a contributing factor in the majority of farm workplace deaths.

No matter if it is a perfect day, or a storm is coming and you only have a short window to get the job done. Whatever it is, take a minute to think through what you’re doing.

For strategies to stay safe while working alone, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/working-alone-farms It’s never you, until it is.

Scan for farm safety support.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 11

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Connect and create at Wangaratta Art School

By GRACE FREDSBERG WANGARATTA Art School is more than a service – it’s a community of creativeminded people of all ages and abilities dedicated to nurturing a positive wellbeing space.

For Samantha Badrock, founder of the school, the mental health and wellbeing aspect of creating art is what the school prides itself on, and this aspect is a pillar of all their classes.

“We’re all about connection and connecting people into the art community, and the mental health benefits that art brings,” she said.

A variety of classes are on offer, including their standard term programs for adults, kids and teens, as well as a group for neurodivergent people.

Private art classes are also available, as are seasonal programs – such as ‘Hot Chocolate and Highlights’, a series of one-off winter workshops to enjoy with a hot chocolate on 5 June.

Coming up is the weekly ‘Reset, Rewind’ class, beginning 30 May, which is a gentle and guided workshop.

With the support of other organisations in the com-

s OCESS: Group classe COLLABORATIVE PR d an e lis cia so to are the perfect way Art School PHOTO: Wangaratta unwind.

GUIDED WORK: Art teacher Isobelle Cremin guides an afternoon group class through perspective painting. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg munity, such as the Rural City of Wangaratta and other local health services, these wellbeing-centered programs have been beneficial for clients according to Samantha.

Samantha has a strong commitment to fostering a positive work environment filled with like-minded people, which in turn creates positive classes for students.

“Anyone we hire believes in the purpose that we’re here for and believes in the type of ser-

vice we deliver,” she said.

Rebekah Fogg, an art teacher at the school, said she loves coming to work.

“I feel really lucky to be working here, and when it comes to my clients, it’s super rewarding to watch their work and how proud they are of themselves,” she said.

The positive workplace culture of the school also influences a similar culture of support and kindness among clients.

“I think that’s just so sa-

cred in this space,” Samantha said.

“We really embody that in everything we do.

“This is a place where you can belong… a place where you can let your guard down a bit and get creative without judgement.”

She said every artist she employs brings a new skill set and dynamic, further promoting the holistic approach the school pursues.

“For example, Rebekah is an Indigenous artist and

loves surrealism… then we have Sarah, a uni degree visual artist and fine arts major, and she goes for colour theory,” she said.

“Izzy is a high school teacher in arts and she brings that formal education…she really connects with the older community.”

She said they also have support worker Helen on site so people with a disability can feel safe and affirmed in the class.

“We focus on the students

and their outcomes,” Samantha said.

She said the relationships people form while there is something the school thrives and builds on.

“When we have our classes, I can always hear laughter echoing through the halls.

“I love that cohesion…it’s beautiful,” she said.

“I love seeing the kids make friendships with people they might have not ever met. “…they make friends through this common link, which is art, and that’s so beautiful.”

The kind of environment Samantha has built means clients like to drop in outside of their art classes to have a chat and a cuppa, or read a book.

“Our door is always open to our community,” she said.

For find out more on all that’s on offer at Wangaratta Art School visit https://www. wangarattaartschool.com/.

22 June 2025 | From 1pm

Join us and the community at the outdoor pool to support the cause!

DONATE HERE or visit wsac.vic.gov.au

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

of young Planned burn at Warbys Pair drivers skid into Kelly town, right nears as dry run continues in front of police A 846-HECTARE fuel reduction planned burn was ignited at Springhurst on West Triangle Road, located at 9km southeast of Springhurst, on Thursday.

Another fuel reduction burn, a 72ha burn in the Warby-Ovens National Park near Hoysteds Track, 3km southeast of Mount Bruno, is planned to be lit before 21 May. Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) crews are diligently monitoring conditions and conducting safety checks.

If the conditions are not conducive to safe burning, the operations may be postponed.

The agencies noted that some burns are conducted in stages, meaning crews may complete part of the burn and return later to finish the operation.

Further notifications will be issued if the burn occurs in stages.

Residents should be aware that planned burns can generate substantial smoke, which can drift long distances and settle in valleys and low-lying areas, particularly overnight.

The community is encouraged to consider the potential impact of smoke and take precautions to minimise exposure.

This includes avoiding physical activity during smoky conditions and remaining indoors where possible.

Closing windows and doors will help prevent smoke from entering buildings and vehicles.

Anyone experiencing smokerelated symptoms should seek medical advice or contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.

Motorists are advised that smoke may reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.

Fire crews will be using local roads to access the burn area.

And road signs may be implemented to manage traffic flow.

Drivers must obey all traffic signs and instructions from fire agency and traffic management personnel near the planned burn.

Real-time traffic information and roadwork updates can be found at traffic.vicroads.vic.gov. au.

The public is urged to be mindful of planned burns in their local area or areas they plan to visit.

Information on planned burns can be found at plannedburns. ffm.vic.gov.au.

Burn statuses can change rapidly, so individuals should be flexible and prepared to alter plans if necessary.

Access restrictions may be in place during burn preparations, active burning operations, in recently burnt areas, and during

post-burn safety checks.

These restrictions may affect roads, walking tracks, car parks, camping grounds, picnic areas and other recreational spaces.

Access will be reinstated once the area is declared safe.

Up-to-date information on burn statuses can be found at plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au.

To stay informed about this specific planned burn, visit plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au, call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226, or for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment, contact the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677.

Further information about planned burning on public land is available at ffm.vic.gov.au/ plannedburn, and for planned burns on private land, visit cfa. vic.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/ planned-burns.

Feel the rhythm, free drumming classes for people with vision loss

By JORDAN DUURSMA FOR the month of May, Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria are encouraging people with vision loss take advantage of a limited time offer for a community drumming class.

Join ‘In the Groove’ community drumming class every Wednesday from 6pm to 7:15pm.

Learn to drum West African rhythms in a fun, communityfocussed environment.

Drums are provided and no experience is necessary.

Make rhythm with others, enjoy the feel of the drums and lose yourself in the rhythm and beats.

In the Groove director and facilitator Brianna Slattery said they are excited for this collaboration with Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria and the opportunity to support people with vision loss in Wangaratta.

“We’re passionate about ensuring that our drumming sessions are inclusive to all, and welcome anyone to come along to

GET YOUR GROOVE ON: Join the ‘In The Groove’ drumming community and learn drum West African rhythms in a fun, community-focussed environment. a class and experience the power of West African rhythm,” she said.

Visit https://events.humanitix. com/wangaratta-communitydrumming-apr-may-25 and select the Blind Sports & Recretation Victoria

ticket to receive one free class and one extra class for half price.

Please note you will have to buy two separate tickets using the same code.

For further information

please contact Brianna on info@ inthegroove.education or 0429 862 277.

These subsidies are possible thanks to funding from Rural City of Wangaratta.

TWO young drivers caught performing skids just 100 metres from the Glenrowan Police Station avoided conviction and penalty to their licences.

The young men aged 18-years-old and 25-years-old fronted Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday to one charge each of driving while losing traction.

The court heard on 6 January this year, a convoy of four cars exited the Hume Freeway and were headed into the Glenrowan township via Glenrowan-Moyhu Road.

As they approached the Gladstone Street intersection in the rain, the 25-year-old, who was second in the convoy, “lost traction” for around two seconds as he turned left.

The 18-year-old P-plater also skidded from the intersection towards Glenrowan.

A policeman from the front porch of the Glenrowan Police Station observed the skids and heard the revving engines from around 100 metres away.

The officer later tracked down the convoy of one silver Falcon and three white Commodore utilities parked outside the Glenrowan Post Office.

The 18-year-old said his loss of traction at the intersection was accidental, putting his mistake down to the wet road and inexperience behind the wheel.

The 25-year-old admitted to purposefully skidding and was remorseful for his actions.

The pair told police they were driving back from Canberra-based car festival Summernats, known as the world’s largest horsepower party.

Defence counsel Lauren Tye said both young offenders had taken accountability for their “really stupid decisions”.

Magistrate Lance Martin placed both offenders on a 12-month good behaviour bond, with no convictions or penalties imposed on either driver’s licence.

They were both ordered to take part in a road trauma program.

“Youthful exuberance does take over from time-to-time, but it also kills many, many people,” Magistrate Martin said.

“When the roads are wet, you don’t drive as you do when it’s dry.

“You can do whatever you want at Summernats, but not on a public road.”

North East SES members bond at cluster training VICTORIA State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers in the North East are more prepared to respond to local emergencies, thanks to a regional training initiative aimed at building camaraderie and shared knowledge among local units.

Beginning in 2022 as an agreement between VICSES Wangaratta, Yarrawonga and Chiltern units to train collaboratively on a semi-regular basis to allow shared access to each unit’s specialist training personnel, the approach has since strengthened the capabilities of unit management and training teams.

By combining the training of several units, the initiative pro-

vides training coordinators the opportunity to facilitate largerscale mock emergency scenarios such as road crash rescue simulations, missing person searches and boat rescues, while compelling volunteers to work in inter-unit teams to build relationships among their neighbouring units.

The cluster model also allows members to gain exposure to additional skill disciplines and rescue proficiencies which units would ordinarily be unable to train on a weekly basis, and has served as the catalyst for volunteers to undertake further specialist training to expand their emergency capabilities.

Jess Zuber, VICSES Wanga-

ON THE ROPE: By sharing hosting duties, the initiative allows volunteers to build familiarity with how each of the five participating units operate.

PHOTO: VICSES ratta unit controller, said the cluster idea began as a chance for the unit to build a positive, collaborative environment with our neighbouring units to ensure volunteers are as well prepared as possible to support their communities in times of emergency.

“We know our neighbouring crews now, we know their

trucks and we know how they operate, so we’ll be prepared to seamlessly jump in beside them to lend a hand when required,” Ms Zuber said.

“It’s been fantastic to see the sharing of knowledge and the appetite for skill development grow throughout the cluster in recent years, and our members and communities have

certainly benefited as a result.”

Having seen the success of the initiative and the rapid skill development of the volunteers involved, VICSES Benalla and Rutherglen unit volunteers have since joined the fray, with cluster training sessions now hosted by each unit on a rotating basis on the third Tuesday of every month.

By sharing hosting duties, the initiative allows volunteers to build familiarity with how each of the five participating units operate, learn where equipment is stored and understand how operations for each unit is administered, ensuring members can seamlessly assist their neighbouring units in the

event of an emergency.

Partner agencies such as CFA, FRV and Victoria Police have also leant their expertise to the North East’s cluster training model, with personnel and resources in attendance at several mock rescue exercises to highlight the state’s ‘We Work as One’ approach.

So far in 2025, VICSES Hume region volunteers have been called to more than 1300 requests for assistance (RFAs) from their community, with more than 370 RFAs managed by units involved in the North East cluster training model.

To learn more about volunteering with VICSES, visit www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 13

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

TEAM GATHERING: Boys to the Bush head of people and culture Kristy Campbell, MENtor CHANGING LIVES: Boys to the Bush Wangaratta location manager Matt Dillon, and co-founder Brad Burgan, community partnerships officer Amanda Huggett, events administrator Narelle Rodgers, Wangaratta location manager Matt Dillon and MENtor Peter Rourke at the Drinks and chief executive officer Adam DeMamiel chat with Helen Haines (MLA, Ovens Valley) and and Yarns event.

Rob Duncan, Mark’s brother.

‘Dunc’s Shed’ officially opened

By SIMONE KERWIN MORE than 50 people attended the official opening and naming of the Wangaratta Boys to the Bush shed this month.

Combined with the organisation’s Drinks and Yarns event on Wednesday, 7 May, the opening saw the unveiling of a plaque naming the Browning Street shed in Mark Duncan’s name, as ‘Dunc’s Shed’.

The Wangaratta shed has been operating for three years, delivering life-changing programs and services

which have an impact on the lives of vulnerable boys, their families and the broader community.

Boys to the Bush is focused on prevention and early intervention strategies for vulnerable male youth, including 1:1 MENtoring programs, camps, school programs, education programs and community engagement days.

The organisation aims to provide an environment free from the distractions in these boys’ lives, allowing them to be surrounded by positive influences and giving them opportunities to

succeed - encouraging mateship, resilience and a sense of belonging.

Mark Duncan, who passed away last year, spent a significant portion of his adult life in Melbourne, but always considered his hometown of Wangaratta to be his true home.

Driven by his passion for supporting youth, Mark dedicated himself to establishing Boys to the Bush in Wangaratta.

Thanks to his determination and fundraising efforts, the community now benefits from the life-changing services offered by Boys to the

Bush, and Mark’s legacy continues through every young person supported by the program throughout the region.

The May 7 event celebrated the naming of the shed in Mark’s honour, and also offered a chance to invite community members to hear about some of the lifechanging stories taking place through Boys to the Bush, and to learn how they can become involved.

The Rapid Relief Team provided a free dinner, and it was a chance for staff to mingle and share some stories over drinks.

DUNC’S SHED: Rob Duncan, brother of Mark Duncan for whom the Wangaratta Boys to the Bush shed has been named, with Boys to the Bush co-founder and chief executive officer Adam DeMamiel at the unveiling of a plaque in Mark’s honour.

HELP US GIVE THEM A WARM WELCOME

HELP US REACH OUR $70,000 TARGET

YOUR DONATION WILL PROVIDE LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT FOR NEWBORNS. Northeast Health Wangaratta is fundraising to support our newborns and ensure they receive the warmest welcome into the world.

Funds will go to purchase two new neonatal resuscitation cots. These warmers provide critical care for newborns, ensuring they get the best start in life. Your donation will make a real difference!

FIND OUT MORE AND DONATE AT NHW.ORG.AU/APPEAL

supported by:

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 15

wangarattachronicle.com.au

18 unmarked graves discovered at Springhurst Cemetery

By JORDAN DUURSMA SPRINGHURST Cemetery Trust (Narimga Cemetery) discovered 18 unmarked graves on their grounds on Saturday, 10 May using a ground penetrating radar.

The project is running ahead of the cemetery trust’s plan to build new structures on the premises, including a toilet block and rotunda.

Springhurst Cemetery Trust secretary Jill Nash described the project as very successful.

“We can now proceed with our strategic plan and build facilities for the cemetery without any fear of cementing over unknown graves,” she said.

“We are marking our

unmarked graves with a plaque and can identify five but the other 13 will be marked with an unknown plaque.

“If anything gives us a lead in our records we could contact relatives if they are still living.”

Operator Callum Day travelled from Melbourne to operate the ground penetrating radar with curious community members coming along to witness the event.

Jill said a handful of other cemeteries came along to look at what they were doing as well.

“We also had a lot of other cemetery trust members here looking at what we were doing and we’re very impressed,” she said.

DISCOVERING HISTORY: Operator Callum Day using the ground penetrating radar to locate unmarked graves on the weekend.

How would you like health care delivered?

LOCAL communities and the health service workforce are being invited to share their experiences of healthcare through a state-wide survey to help shape how care is delivered within the upcoming Local Health Service Networks.

The voluntary survey, conducted by the Victorian Department of Health, is now open and will remain available until 8 June.

It is open to all health service staff, as well as members of the public.

“This is a unique opportunity for every community member to help shape the future of healthcare in Victoria,” Libby Fifis, chief executive officer of Northeast Health Wangaratta, said.

“Your voice will help guide how our Local Health Service Network delivers care that is accessible, high quality and tailored to community needs.”

Key points about the survey:  The survey is anonymous and confidential and takes about 10 minutes to complete.  It is open from 22 April to 8 June.  Survey results will be shared with health service CEOs and board chairs to inform the strategic priorities of each network.  A summary of overall survey findings will be published on Engage Victoria.  Complete the survey here: https://engage. vic.gov.au/your-health-experience.

The new Local Health Service Networks will be established across Victoria from July 2025.

Each network will bring together hospitals and health services within defined regions to better coordinate and deliver healthcare services for local communities.

Hospitals within these networks will be responsible for working collaboratively to ensure that care is integrated and responsive to the needs of their region.

To learn more about the networks, visit: health.vic.gov.au/local-health-servicenetworks.

Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

Learning on the job

By JORDAN DUURSMA

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Progress on aerodrome terminal lease

By SIMONE KERWIN

YOUNG entrepreneurs, sisters Annabelle (8) and Maddie Flood (11), have been exploring their creative side, making products to sell at their market stall ‘Stuff 4 Kids, By Kids’.

The pair ran their second ever market stall at the Glenrowan Warby Ranges Lions Club Community Market on Easter Monday which was a booming success.

Maddie said it was originally her idea to start the market stalls, and neighbour and long-time friend, Joy Williams, has been assisting the girls in their creative endeavours.

“Joy has been guiding us and I’ve been pretty much on the sewing machine the whole time,” she said.

“At the start I didn’t know how to sew or make anything, but now I can make things on my own.

“Now I’ve been making placemats and coasters for my family.

“I would encourage other kids our age to give it a go.”

The market stall endeavour has seen the girls equipped with practical skills and learn about sustainable practices, customer service, and money handling.

Annabelle said they have been learning lots of new skills.

“We have been selling decorations, handbags, plants, cookies, popcorn, memory games, bookmarks, coasters and jewellery that we have made,” she said.

“We have learnt to use the sewing machine, the scroll saw, the

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS: Annabelle (8) and Maddie Flood (11) have been learning practical life skills running a market stall.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling hand drill, and hammering in nails.”

Joy said she spends time with the girls out of love and is honoured they have let her be part of their lives.

“The girls and I have developed a relationship over several years, along the way they’ve shown interest in some of the ‘old fashioned’ stuff I do so I began teaching it to them,” she said.

“In a society where everything comes as a plastic wrapped, join the bits together kit that results in instant gratification, I love the

way the girls are happy to wait for their creations to be completed.

“The pride I see in their faces when they show off what they have made is priceless.

“Over time the girls have come to trust their own instinct and ability so that they will even have a go without instruction.

“With the market stalls I have had the pleasure of watching two shy young ladies blossom into confident, outgoing people.

“They now have a strong ‘can do’ attitude.”

Mum Kimberley Flood, said this

has been a great learning opportunity for her girls.

“I love the fact Joy is happy to volunteer and spend so much time with the kids,” she said.

“She has skills that neither my husband or I have so they are able to learn different things from her.

“It’s what community is all about, being able to learn off other people instead of keeping it in your family group.”

Both Maddie and Annabelle are excited to run their stall at future markets, so keep an eye out for ‘Stuff 4 Kids, By Kids’.

A CALL for submissions about council’s intention to lease the Wangaratta Aerodrome terminal building did not attract any public response, so the process will move to the next stage.

The Rural City of Wangaratta will now inform councillors, and finalise the lease agreement, after the prospective lessee responded to a mid-2024 call for expressions of interest in leasing the terminal located at the Brian Higgins Drive aerodrome.

In the past, the terminal building - comprising a 453 square metre display area, 101 square metre office space, toilets and shared foyer area - has been utilised as office space, a coach terminal interchange, and as a venue for aviation functions.

Council, which owns and operates the terminal, sought EOIs last year with the belief there could be potential to expand the use of the building on a more permanent basis.

Future developments for the precinct would complement the vision of the Aerodrome Master Plan adopted by council in 2018.

Meanwhile, discussions are continuing about the former Visitor Information Centre in Murphy Street.

A council spokesperson said discussions with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action regarding the future of the building were “ongoing and complex” and anticipated to take some time.

The building has been unoccupied since visitor information services moved to a kiosk at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre and the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub at Glenrowan.

FREE !

EVENT

A

DON’T BE SHY, GIVE NIKO’S A TRY

LL

OUTDO

SCAN FOR INFO

O

R

EXPO

2025

1 June 2025 | 10am-2pm Monday-Friday

6:00am - 18:00pm

Saturday

6:00am - 13:00pm

Sunday

6:00am - 12:00pm 2a Edwards St, Wangaratta

(03) 57 21 4361 Nikos_butchery@outlook.com |

Niko’s Butchery Wangaratta

WANGARATTA RACECOURSE TURF CLUB Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls offering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear, bicycles, fishing and hunting equipment, and more.

Great door prizes from Aussie Disposals, and live presentations from industry experts like Robbie Alexander and Paul Boag.

Proudly brought to you by CARAVAN AND CAMPERS PH: 1300 236 036

WWW.AUSTRALIANCAMPERS.COM.AU

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Swifties are back, but for how long?

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

as psyllids; sap-sucking insects which secrete a sugary covering called lerp, and manna; a sugary sap ONE of Australia’s rarest produced on small branches birds, the Swift Parrot, is a usually following damage by regular visitor to the North The latest studies estimate insects.

East Victorian region. there could be fewer than These food sources are So far this autumn, there 500 individual Swift Parrots affected by climate, so in years have been several sightings remaining in the wild. where there are insufficient in and around their usual Though there are resources in any given region, haunts, such as the Warby several different processes the fast-flying and wideRanges, Killawarra and threatening the existence ranging parrot seeks suitable Chiltern. of the Swift Parrot, the key conditions elsewhere.

Every autumn and winter, threat is unquestionably the Often, during dry times, the migratory parrot passes logging of native forests in Swift Parrots find the richest through en-route from eastern Tasmania – the only and most fertile parts of the its Tasmanian breeding landscape, such as gullies grounds, seeking food among place in the world where Swift Parrots breed. within forests and woodlands box-ironbark woodlands The fact that governments along creeks and rivers. of Victoria and New South are continuing to allow this A couple of years ago, a Wales. to occur is appalling, and small number of Swift Parrots In years when food is visited the Ovens River in scarce in these drier habitats, modelling suggests that at the current rate of decline Wangaratta where they much of the population the species could become primarily fed on lerps on the resorts to using coastal functionally extinct within the River Red Gums, occasionally forests of New South Wales using flowering trees in the and in some years, even as far next 10-15 years.

While overwintering nearby Barr Reserve. as Queensland. here on the mainland, the But how long will Swift distribution of Swift Parrots Parrots continue to visit? is driven largely by eucalypt FEEDING: A Swift Parrot In 2016, the species flowering, from which the reaches out to take lerp – one was up-listed to critically birds feed on nectar. of their favoured foods - from endangered due to a severe However, the species the foliage of a Spotted Gum. decline in their population, PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds which has plummeted by two is also partial to feeding on a range of insects such Bush and Beyond) thirds in the past decade.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 17

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Moyhu Lions May market

WHO DUNNIT

THE Moyhu Lions Club will hold its Autumn Vibes community market on Saturday, 17 May from 8am to 12pm at the Moyhu Lions Park.

There will be about 30 stalls showcasing local produce, plants, arts and crafts, clothing and giftware along with delicious food and more.

The Moyhu CFA will be holding this month’s raffle with money raised going towards their fundraising efforts towards a second tanker.

After a sensational opening weekend, the Beechworth Theatre Company looks forward to presenting its production of ‘Clue’, a murder-mystery farce based on the very well-known game and movie, at the Beechworth Servicemen’s Memorial Hall in Ford Street, Beechworth this weekend. Meet all the crazy characters including (from left) Wadsworth the butler, and in the doorway in search of the killer (top) Colonel Mustard, Miss Scarlet, Mr Plum, Mrs White, (bottom) Mr Green, Yvette the maid and Mrs Peacock.

Tickets are available now for shows on Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 4.30pm and Sunday at 2pm by visiting stickytickets.com.au.

PHOTO: Vanessa Lee

La Fiera Festival in Milawa THE La Fiera festival, a celebration of Myrtleford’s Italian heritage and culture, is being held in Myrtleford from Friday, 16 May to Sunday, 18 May. Enjoy food, wine and family fun throughout the town over the weekend, including Sunday’s Il Mercato, an Italian market with a twist, open house at the Old School Museum, and La Fiera Cup soccer matches.

Multiple venues will also be hosting Italian-themed lunches, dinner-dances and exhibitions, with more information by visiting lafiera.com.au.

Across the Arts retrospective exhibition

Wang Repair Café at the market THE Wang Repair Café will be at the Wangaratta Community Market in Mason Street on Sunday from 8am to 12pm.

The team of volunteers will be on site to help repair any broken items including tools, homewares, bicycles, toys and more and help keep them out of landfill, and they will have a selection of tagged and tested items for sale.

AN exhibition called Crystalline at the Wangaratta Art Gallery brings together existing and new bodies of work by Brisbane artist Elizabeth Willing exploring the interconnected qualities of alcohol and sugar.

Working across textiles, sculpture and installation, Willing’s works are performative and often participatory explorations of foods both concept and material.

Crystalline can be seen in Gallery 1 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery until 18 May.

Wangaratta Historical Society open weekends

Wangaratta community market

TRADING CLOTH A fascinating exhibition by artist and weaver Blake Griffiths which uses textiles to explore the introduction of particular European cultural practices to Australia, incongruent to our climate and ecology (such as heavy woollen cloth) is being held in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Gallery director Rachel Arndt (pictured) explained that during a 2023 residency at the Icelandic Textile Centre, Blake became fascinated with vaðmál (or wadmal) cloth – a specific type of cloth with both spiritual and economic currency - which he uses as the starting point for his investigations into uniquely Australian textile opportunities, including his experiments with native animal furs and feathers. See Trading Cloth in Gallery 2 until the end of May. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Sheds built and trusted by locals.

18 Murrell St, Wangaratta buffalobuilt.com.au 03 5721 2633

BUF250116_Wangaratta_Chronicle_Template.indd 1

THE annual Wangaratta Festival of Dance, which celebrates young dancers from across the region and beyond as they take centre stage to perform and compete, will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre over two big weekends.

Now in its 27th year, hundreds of competitors will take part in competition over 12 genres of dance styles including classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary hip hop, musical theatre, lyrical and improvisation.

It kicks off at 4pm on Friday, 16 May and will run on Saturday from 9am to 9.30pm, and on Sunday from 9am to 6pm, and entry to the auditorium to watch the performances is free to all.

Crystalline at Wangaratta Art Gallery

THE 2025 Across the Arts retrospective exhibition is being held in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library during May. The exhibition features 31 artworks by 18 Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) members in a wide variety of styles and mediums including ceramics, printmaking, painting, photography and textiles.

It can be seen throughout the month during library opening hours with an Across the Arts retrospective celebration to be held on Sunday, 25 May from 2pm to 4pm.

THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 1113 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.

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

Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.

Wangaratta Festival of Dance

5/5/2025 12:28 pm

TAKE a trip down memory lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street.

The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm and entry is free.

Anyone who has interesting items from Wangaratta’s past they think should be on display are welcome to bring them in or donate them to the museum, with more information via email to wangarattahistorialsociety@gmail.com.

16 - 22 MAY | 2025

Timeless elegance with river views and CBD convenience POSITIONED in one of Wangaratta’s most prestigious streets and offering uninterrupted river views, this remarkable residence is the ultimate blend of heritage charm and modern living.

Within easy walking distance to the CBD, this is a rare opportunity to secure a truly luxurious home in a tightly held location.

With its classic period facade, 12-foot ceilings, pressed metal hallway detailing, Jarrah timber floors and gas log fire, this home offers a warm sense of timeless character.

Thoughtfully extended and carefully renovated, it blends its Victorian heritage with modern comforts and quality

finishes throughout.

Inside, the expansive floorplan features a master bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite, two guest bedrooms with built-in robes, and a spacious family bathroom complete with double vanity, separate bath, and shower.

The heart of the home is the spectacular open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area-bathed in natural light from large windows and doors, and seamlessly flowing out to the outdoor entertaining area and pool.

Designed with both entertaining and everyday living in mind, the layout also includes a separate formal lounge with doors opening to a private spa retreat.

SWITCH SAVENOW SOONER

Outdoors, the lifestyle appeal continues with a superb entertaining area featuring a built-in barbecue, all overlooking the heated inground pool and 3 2 2 uninterrupted river views beyond.

Adding further versatility is a pool Agent | Garry Nash & Co house-ideal as a gym, additional living Phone | (03) 5722 2663 space, rumpus room, or private studioperfect for guests or extended family.

Price | $1,495,000 Set on a generous 3587m² block Location | 36 Templeton Street, with secure fencing and beautifully esWangaratta tablished gardens, the property is designed for comfort and convenience.

Only an inspection can do justice to the calibre, comfort and lifestyle this property provides. valled combination of luxury, functionalA true ‘forever home’ offering an unri- ity and CBD riverfront living.

$2,000 back to you when you refinance your home loan* APPLY ONLINE NOW

*Visit humebank.com.au/switchnow for T&Cs. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply. ABN 85 051 868 556. AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

ROOF REPAIRS ROOF PAINTING

Rooffix

H A L L A B O UT

P LUMBING for hall your plumbing and gas fitting needs

Fo r Ha l l yo u r P l u m b i n g and Gasfitting needs.

Covering Wangaratta and NE Victoria

9Roof repair and restoration 9All work guaranteed 9Fully qualified roof tiler 9Local, well known tradesman CALL DARREN ON

0428 218 271 www.rooffix.com.au

0409 473 220

0409 473 220 Licence no. 104114

Licence no. 104114

At Your Service Business Guide Advertise for as little as $ 5723 0100

25 PER W

EEK

sales@nemedia.com.au

If you’re not in the North East Property Guide, you’re not in the market.

The region’s best property guide located inside your local paper every week and online anytime.

Lifestyle living in Latrobe Court NESTLED within the sought-after Latrobe Court, this three bedroom delightful family home presents an exceptional lifestyle opportunity, providing ample room for a growing family to thrive and create lasting memories.

Enjoy the master bedroom with walk in robe and ensuite, the remaining bedrooms with built in robes and central bathroom.

Situated on a 657m2 approx. allotment, the property further benefits from convenient side access to the backyard, offering practicality and ease for various needs.

Enjoy the open-plan kitchen and dining area, offering effortless everyday living this central space ensures yearround comfort, equipped with reverse cycle heating and cooling, creating an inviting atmosphere for family meals and gatherings.

Extending the living space outdoors, an undercover alfresco area beckons for year-round entertaining.

Picture yourself hosting barbecues with friends, enjoying peaceful morning coffees, or simply relaxing in this versa-

Take the property market with you Search over 10 million properties Australia wide.

Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or researching, the View app has everything you need in one place.

See all properties with view.com.au

3 Agent

2

2

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| 03 5722 2663

Price

| $685,000

Location | 10 Latrobe Court, Wangaratta tile outdoor sanctuary, regardless of the weather.

The property benefits from a 6m x 8.6m (approx.) shed, featuring a built-in bar, a cozy wood fire for warmth in the cooler months, and evaporative cooling for summer comfort.

Whether you envision a dedicated workshop for your hobbies, a private retreat to unwind, or the ultimate space for entertaining, this shed offers endless possibilities to tailor it to your specific lifestyle needs.

Call the team today to book an inspection on 5722 2663

Milawa 185F Milawa-Bobinawarrah Road, Wangaratta 10 Dianella Street,

Wangaratta 14 Chisholm Street,

Waldara 113 Old School Road,

376sqm

1170sqm

5 Ac

2

1

670sqm

1

3

2

2

3

1

1

4

2

2

Low Maintenance and Style in Milawa

Modern Home in Creek View Estate

“Kingsview” CBD Location & River Views

For Sale $690,000 - $730,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L33638491 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Waldara Lifestyle Living with Development Opportunity

For Sale $495,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L33988123 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

AUCTION Friday 6th June 1pm - Onsite View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26690453 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,060,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19742379 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 8 Harper Sreet, 920 sqm

4

2

Myrrhee 1475 Benalla-Whitfield Road, 58 Ac

2

4

2

2

Oxley 15 Gibb Street,

Waldara 54 Wonga Park Drive,

2.5Ac

4145sqm

3

2

2

4

2

4

Fully Renovated in Highly Sought Central Location

Architecturally Built Home with Passive Solar Features

Style and Tranquillity with Development Opportunity

Magnificent Family Home in a Prestigious Location

For Sale $1,150,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190940 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,480,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19192688 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,550,000 - $1,700,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190732 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Contact agent View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L33002921 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid

SALES

Anthony D'Agostino Hugh Amery

Andrea Bowman Danial Siperki

Lori SamCurr Lyster

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Marni McKenzie

4444Ryley Wangaratta Ryley Street, Street, Wangaratta 03 035722 57229444 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Pathfinder heads off Trump trouble

■ IDEAL IN-BETWEEN: The new Pathfinder sits nicely between the Nissan X-Trail and Patrol, now offering room for up to eight occupants.

By DEREK OGDEN THERE I was doing a stint of push mower pilates (grass cutting) in the backyard when it struck me how clever the people at Nissan had been coming up with a cut-price large wagon at this time.

With large SUV prices pushing through six figures, the new ST-L Pathfinder has lopped more than $12,000 off the previous entry-level model.

It takes a trip down the road less travelled, and is all the more prescient at a time when tariff tyrant Donald Trump is upping the ante on the cost of motoring around the world.

In close to 40 years down under, the Pathfinder has never gone away but has instead taken a back seat to the smaller X-Trail and bigger Patrol.

Now, with room for eight occupants, the ST-L has squeezed in between the pair - available in two- or fourwheel drive.

It is joined by another returnee, the Ti 2WD. Although creating a new entry-level, ST-L is far from wanting; with seating for up to eight in three rows, generous equipment and safety systems, plus powerful and efficient V6 petrol engine.

The two ST-L models kick off at $59,670 for the twowheel drive version and rise to $64,170 for the 4WD.

erful direct-injection 3.5-litre petrol V6 petrol engine, putting out 202kW at 6400rpm and 340Nm at 4800rpm, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Ti then comes in at $67,990 for the 2WD, the range-topping Ti-L tips the scales at $82,490.

All prices are before government and dealer delivery charges are added.

All models are covered

by Nissan’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assist for the same period.

STYLING At a tad more than five metres in length, just under two metres wide and 1.8 metres high, the Pathfinder has every right to flex its muscle, but it doesn’t.

While the latest generation Pathfinder boasts a bold, truck-like grille with a squared-off profile like the original model, there’s nothing old school about it.

Take 18-inch alloy wheels, dusk-sensing LED headlights with High Beam Assist and daytime running lights, LED front fog lights, a powered tailgate and roof rails for the latest thinking.

INTERIOR Heated front seats and tri-zone air-conditioning ensure comfort in every seat, of which there are an eight-way power driver’s seat and a sixway manual passenger’s position.

The electric park brake works well, and an intelligent key has an in-built vehicle alarm system.

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP: Pathfinder ST-L FWD: $59,670 Pathfinder ST-L 4WD: $64,170 Pathfinder Ti FWD: $67,990 Pathfinder Ti 4WD: $72,490 Pathfinder Ti-L 4WD: $82,490 Note: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Nissan local dealer for drive-away prices.

Getting into the third row is made easy with wideopening rear doors and a system that allows a single button to fold the outboard seat and slide forward in a single movement.

Once in, leg room is limited without sliding the middle row forward, encroaching on leg room there.

With room out back for only a temporary spare, car-

go space is limited to 205 litres when all three row seatbacks are in place, 554 litres when the third row is folded, and up to 782 litres with the second and third rows folded.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS Like the rest of the Pathfinder range, the ST-L is equipped with Nissan’s pow-

SAFETY The Pathfinder gained a five-star ANCAP rating on 2022 testing.

With nine airbags, including new far-side position, plus extensive safety upgrades from Nissan Intelligent Mobility Safety Suite, there’s little reason this will have changed.

The latter includes predictive forward collision warning with junction assist and emergency braking, including for pedestrians and cyclists, driver attention alert, and blind spot warning and intervention.

Also on offer are lane departure warning and prevention, rear cross traffic alert and back-up collision intervention, intelligent cruise control with speed limiter, traffic sign recognition with overspeed prevention and rear seat alert.

DRIVING With almost two tonnes to cart around, the 3.5 litre V6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission have their work cut out and the Pathfinder is no twinkle toes.

Nissan puts the combined urban/highway fuel consumption at 14.7 litres per 100

kilometres.

The test vehicle topped 16 litres per 100 kilometres at one stage.

All Pathfinder grades can tow up to 750kg unbraked, or up to 2700kg braked, the latter more than some key rivals, with most large SUVs capped at 2500kg.

With a close to 12 metre turning circle, parking can take some care.

Driving capability in almost all conditions is assured with ground clearance of 317mm and Drive and Terrain Mode Selector shifting between Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow and Tow modes in 2WD models, while 4WD models add Mud and Sand modes.

SUMMARY Born almost a half century ago as a small SUV, the wellequipped Nissan Pathfinder has continued to grow to fit in between siblings, the neat Nissan X-Trail and big brother Patrol.

The bargain-basement ST-L only adds to the appeal.

RATINGS Looks: 8 Performance: 4 Safety: 6 Thirst: 7 Practicality: 7 Comfort: 5 Tech: 7 Value: 8 STANDARD WARRANTY Five years / unlimited kilometres

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 23

wangarattachronicle.com.au

ELEVENTH IN A SERIES: SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

Welcome home to a zero cost footprint

By RUSSELL SULLY, JOHN NAYLOR and ANN BRAIN for ELECTRIFY WANGARATTA AUSTRALIAN households account for 20-23 per cent of national greenhouse gas emissions - known as the carbon footprint.

This is the largest emissions sector in the Australia economy.

These greenhouse gases are heating our planet and adding to the severity of weather events.

The exhaust from our cars contributes to 12,000 premature deaths in Australia each year, according to Melbourne University research.

The fumes from our gas stoves contribute to 12 per cent of Australia’s childhood asthma.

Technological advances provide an opportunity to transition to an all-electric household while saving money.

Achieving a zero-household carbon footprint is a cost saver that pays for itself.

Vehicles dominate household energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

Vehicles contribute 69 per cent of household emissions, followed by space heating (11 per cent), water heating (eight per cent), other appliances (nine per cent), while cooking accounts for only one per cent.

The same does not apply for other sectors like agriculture where zero emissions are not within easy reach.

By electrifying everything with solar panels, a battery and electric vehicles, households become “welcome home to zero”.

The recent Intergovernmental

EMISSIONS COMPARISON: Gas and petrol homes versus all-electric home and vehicles.

Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report by the world’s most senior scientist states the earth could exceed 1.50C of warming as early as the 2030s.

This is considered the safe limit of temperature rise for

humanity as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Greenhouse gas emissions cause climate change, which has led to unprecedented heatwaves, extreme fires and increased risk of unprecedented flooding.

The heatwaves are a major cause of deaths.

Wangaratta is ranked in the top five most flood vulnerable cities in Australia.

Shepparton is the most flood vulnerable city in Australia.

The question now becomes “what will I do to combat climate change?” rather than “what will they do?”.

We must all play our part in reducing emissions.

Why electrify?

An all-electric home will spend $4100 less per year on average than a home with gas appliances and petrol vehicles.

The greenhouse gas emissions for an all-electric home drops from 9550kg CO2e per year to ZERO kg CO2e per year.

Rooftop solar and battery, heat pump (i.e., reverse cycle air conditioner) heating and cooling, heat pump hot water, induction cooking and electric cars will reduce the average household running cost to $1850 per year.

Looking forward over 15 years, a typical Australian household using gas heating, gas water heating, gas cooking and petrol vehicles will spend on average $9200 a year on energy bills (including petrol) compared with $1850 per year for the same household electrified.

The majority of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions come from energy used to power machines that burn fossil fuels.

These machines include everything from coal power plants generating electricity, to cars and gas water heaters.

Luckily in Australia we have access to the cheapest home energy in the world - our rooftop solar.

We are the sunburnt country after all.

Over its lifetime, rooftop solar costs about five cents per kWh, which is cheaper than any other source of delivered home energy.

Roof top solar power and batteries is a low-cost way to save money and reduce emissions.

Over time, zero emissions households pay for themselves.

HOME RENOVATORS EXPO Saturday 24th May 9am - 2pm & Sunday 25th May 10am - 2pm NEO 1.6 LE2 – IVORY

DEALS&

ALDERLEA T6 LE

BUILD YOUR STOVE pacificenergy.net/build-your-stove

DEMOS

Runout models still available.

BIOMASS TAX .S.

IED U

EDIT CR

EDIT CR

U

Reps on site for

QUAL IF

PACIFIC ENERGY, CHARNWOOD, YUNCA & ROOM SEALED FLUES

BIOMASS TAX .S.

ALDERLEA T6 LE

NEO 1.6 LE2 – METALLIC BLACK

From effortless transport in the 4-seater Crew model to tackling tough terrain with its 4WD and reliable diesel engine, the Kubota RTV-X is made to work. And with a hydraulic tipping tray, loading and unloading has never been easier.

Whatever the job, it’s all in a day’s work with Kubota’s new RTV-X

SHEPPARTON VIC 198-200 Numurkah Rd Ph: (03) 5821 3299 ALDERLEA T5 LE

BENALLA VIC 183 Bridge St Ph: (03) 5762 3633

NEO 2.5 LE – STAINLESS STEEL

ALBURY/WODONGA 520 Dallinger Rd Ph: (02) 6025 5390

161 Vincent Rd, Wangaratta (03) 5798 3489 www.mysliceoflife.com.au

ALL IN A DAYS WORK www.bertolis.com.au

Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

No limits for female CFA members at camp WOMEN of CFA from all over the state gathered at their respective regional Women’s Challenge Camps to break down barriers and push themselves out of their comfort zones.

Members gathered at the Ovens Valley Homestead recently to enjoy their inaugural Women’s Challenge Camp.

The camps are run over one weekend in each CFA region and provide the women in that area with the opportunity to face physical and mental challenges together while delving into personal development, leadership, team building and networking sessions.

Organiser and member of the Volunteer Sustainability Team in the region, Tanya Lumley, said it was important to create spaces like these for women within CFA so they can learn and feel supported.

“The goal is to have more people learn about themselves in a space where there are no barriers, real or perceived, where they can speak up and really step into themselves,” Ms Lumley said.

“The camp is a chance for women to be further supported and encouraged, where they can step into new spaces and new conversations with 50 other like-minded people around to catch them.”

Participants enjoyed a panel discussion from pioneering women within CFA who spoke about challenging stereotypes and building their own self-confidence and pushed their bodies to complete outdoor challenge activities.

The women also had the chance to ask questions of the Deputy Chief Officer and Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer from the area.

climbing tested the WALL CLIMB: Rock . ility of the members strength and flexib

ALL ABOARD: Rafting was one of the activities to test out teamwork among the CFA members.

FLY HIGH: Several CF A members get involved in the flying fox activity at Allambee in early Ma y.

Another ton up for Wilson Friday, 15 May, 2015

By SCOTT ANDERSON

working and when I’m playing.

“As far as the on-field banter goes, I generally get it from the blokes I know, and it’s quite funny really.

WHEN Jeremy Wilson re-signed “The stuff from over the fence for Moyhu over the off season, it I’ve always had to deal with – when caught more than a few Ovens and I was at the Chronicle it was about King football followers off guard.

After five successful years with the the paper, whereas now it’s about running the league.

Hoppers, winning a premiership, “But generally you’re that focused kicking 100 goals in a season and on what’s happening on the field taking home a couple of best and fairest awards, Wilson’s return to the that you don’t hear it – none of it affects me too much.”

Ovens and Murray was considered The Hoppers came into 2015 with a fait accompli after he took on the job as the O&K league manager with a view to rebuilding, and a lack of recruits had most people ruling the AFL NEB. side out of finals contention.

But the wiry midfielder said he But a 3-2 start, including a win was always keen to stay in the green over Tarrawingee and competitive and gold, regardless of any extra losses to Milawa and Whorouly, has flack he might cop as a result of his caused the doubters to sit up and job.

“I think the talk about me going to take notice.

“Everyone was writing us off at the the O&M was fairly external,” he said.

“There’s a direct link to Rovers start of the year, saying we hadn’t picked anyone up and that we were with [my brother] Dylan playing going to struggle,” Wilson said. there and my old man coaching “But there are a lot of proud guys the thirds. out there, and we’re showing how “There are challenges for competitive we can be. me, given my work, but most “We know that the top end of our people know that there is a playing group is as good as that of difference between when I’m

10 years ago

JUGGLING ACT: Moyhu star Jeremy Wilson at work at AFL NEB in his role as league operations manager. any other side.

“The thing we’ve tried to improve is our depth, and those bottom 6-8 players have really stepped up this year.

“You look at a bloke like Hamish Busk, who was a bit-part player last year between the twos and seniors – this year he’s held down centre half back and I don’t think he’s lost a contest.

“Along with a lot of other blokes, he has been fantastic, and a big part of the reason we are going alright.”

The Hoppers are at home against ladder leader Glenrowan tomorrow, and while they will again be considered an extreme long shot to upset the might of the reigning premiers, Wilson said they would back themselves in.

“It’s a huge game,” he said.

“They are obviously the best team in the competition, by some way I’d say.

“They have quality all over the field and they are well led by Nigel [Robinson], Rory [Cunningham] and Lachie [Cohen].

“The start is really important – if we can start well and stick with them then we will give ourselves a chance, just like any other game.

“No one gave us a chance against them last year, and we got within a goal, so we know we can do it – it’s just a matter of putting our best foot forward.”

There will be an extra bit of motivation for the Hoppers, with Wilson lining up for his 100th match for the club.

“It’s a nice feeling to be playing my 100th, but at the same time, once I get out on the field it will just be another match,” Wilson said.

“It’s something that I will look back on, because there are some great players with their names on the wall at Moyhu for having played 100 games.

“If we can get the win then it will definitely be one to celebrate.”

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 25

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Couple on a mission to speak in Wangaratta

WANGARATTA couple Ron and Kay Heyboer say they were called in 1995 by God, to move to the equator to build a town in the middle of the jungles of Borneo.

Their mission was to rescue a multitude of children and youth in crisis.

In 2002 they moved to the city of Sintang, where they bought a large plot of land further into the jungle where they established a place place for these neglected children to have a home.

Now set in the heart of the West Kalimantan Jungle, Living Waters Village has grown to be a family home for over 700 Dayak children with a vision to provide accommodation for 1000 neglected children and school for 2000.

They now have over 700-800 acres of land which is set amid the dense jungle.

Jill Knights, from ‘The Friends of Ronny and Kay’ in Wangaratta said the couple provide individual homes for girls and boys accommodating 10 - 35 children of all ages together with house parents in each home.

“They also accommodate local workers and teachers together

ON A MISSION: (Left) The Living Waters Village in Borneo. Above: Ron and Kay Heyboer. with a training centre, worship centre, medical clinic, bakery, administration building, a nursery for the babies, visitor’s quarters, radio station, sewing rooms, primary school, and a senior high school,” Jill said.

“Each child in Living Waters Village can grow, not only physically and educationally, but also be fed, and trained spiritually.

“They don’t just have children

here in Living Waters Village.

“They truly believe that here they have children which are growing to be future teachers, future pastors, future politicians, even future presidents.”

Ronny will be in Wangaratta on Sunday, 18 May 2025 at 7pm at Wesleyan Methodist Church corner Parfitt and Great Alpine Road, Wangaratta.

All are welcome to come and lis-

ten to Ronny share his work.

An offering for Ronny and Kay will be taken up to go towards the work at Living Waters Village.

If you cannot make it on the day, you can always visit their website at https://www.livingwatersvillage. com.

“Friends of Ronny and Kay would like to thank Wesleyan Methodist for allowing us to use their premises for our gathering,” Jill said.

SHARING HIS STORY: Mitch Tambo fostered meaningful conversations, drawing on his own story.

UNFORGETTABLE RENDITIONS: Mitch Tambo’s performance featured songs in the Gamilaraay language, as well as unforgettable didgeridoo renditions.

Mitch Tambo inspires Wangaratta students with music, culture and conversations AUSTRALIAN World Music artist Mitch Tambo visited Wangaratta High School (WHS) on Monday, 5 May as part of his ‘I Am Me’ tour.

Mitch shared a high-energy performance and a powerful workshop designed for both students and educators, to inspire, educate, and empower young people through the universal language of music and storytelling, drawing from his own personal experiences.

Wangaratta High School media, marketing and events coordinator Monique Taylor said the performance and workshop were fantastic.

“Mitch engaged with students from WHS, Wang West Primary School and Yarrunga Primary School sharing stories on his rise in the music industry, personal stories

MUSICAL SUPPORT: Country music star Colin Buchanan.

Uncovering stories of faith

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION: Mitch Tambo with Wangaratta students on Monday, 5 May.

By JORDAN DUURSMA

UNEARTHING STORIES OF FAITH: Christian communicator Karl Faase .

of tragedy and hardship and shared his amazing music,” she said.

“He sang originals and had the crowd up on their feet singing and dancing to the John Farnham classic ‘The Voice’ and Icehouse classic ‘Great Southern Land’.

“Both sung in a mix of Gamilaraay language and English.”

Fostering themes of a positive mindset, belonging, identity, healing, and cultural connection, Mitch facilitated crucial discussions, touching on the important issue of bullying.

“With tragic stories of students taking their own lives due to bullying, both in person and online, I believe it’s vital to open up these conversations and provide a safe space for children to feel heard,” Mitch said.

“Anyone can be subjected to bullying, no matter their age.

“I personally experience bully-

ing on social media, which can be upsetting, but I’ve acquired tools to cope.

“I think it’s important to share these experiences with students facing difficult times.”

Last year, Mitch’s inaugural tour of educational facilities - Walanbaa Youth Tour - was a nationwide success, with Mitch performing at over 100 dates across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, the ACT and Western Australia throughout a nine-month period.

“The response has been incredible, especially considering this is important work,” Mitch said.

“It’s inspiring to see schools embrace this initiative so enthusiastically.

“To create real change in future generations, we must challenge existing mindsets and promote cultural awareness from an early age.”

Mitch’s performance featured songs in the Gamilaraay language, as well as unforgettable didgeridoo renditions, encouraging active student participation and sparking interest in Aboriginal culture.

“The kids have an amazing time; they’re so excited to dance and sing along, creating a truly joyful atmosphere,” Mitch said.

Drawing from his background as a social worker, the proud Gamilaraay man ensured a safe space for open dialogue, sharing personal stories and guiding Yarning Circle sessions to foster meaningful conversations.

“I’m always open about the challenges I’ve faced and how I’ve gotten to where I am today – a music artist and a proud family man,” Mitch said.

“I always tell students that my visits are safe spaces for important discussions.”

COUNTRY music star Colin Buchanan along with Christian communicator Karl Faase will present a free event in Wangaratta in May aimed at uncovering stories of faith in the Australian context.

‘Unearthed’ will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, 29 May, as Olive Tree Media collaborates with churches from the Wangaratta region to host the free event.

Karl Faase and the Olive Tree Media team hit the roads of Australia, driving 18,000km in an iconic Holden ute, to unearth stories of faith from history and today for a documentary series called ‘Faith Runs Deep’.

Karl is the chief executive officer of Olive Tree Media, a Christian media company, host of ‘Jesus the Game Changer’ TV/ DVD series and presenter of the Daily Nudge radio spots.

He is in demand across Australia as a speaker, with a special interest in encouragement and motivation and communicating to those exploring faith.

The Wangaratta ‘Unearthed’ event will offer a sample of the content of that series, and invite people to watch six weeks of ‘Faith Runs Deep’, which will be hosted around the region in the weeks following the event.

‘Faith Runs Deep’ episodes look at diverse topics including First Nations people, politics, sport, the arts, the armed services, business, and the early years of European settlement of Australia.

Each episode is designed to give information and inspiration through academic thought and personal testimony which is engaging and thought-provoking for anybody, regardless of their faith journey.

Alongside Karl Faase at ‘Unearthed’, 10-time Golden Guitar winning singer-songwriter Colin Buchanan will perform several of his hit country songs, and rising music entertainer Jade Steg will perform.

There will also be an interview with champion bull and saddle bronc rider Tim Kelly, who is featured in the series. Tim won many national and international titles, taking out an international saddle bronc championship at the age of 19.

The ‘Unearthed’ event will be held on Thursday, May 29 from 7pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

For more information, contact one of the local churches involved, including Wangaratta Baptist Church, Wesleyan Methodist and Enjoy Church Wangaratta, visit the Olive Tree Media events page at www. olivetreemedia.com.au/events or email churches@olivetreemedia. com.au

Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Conserve your water warning for Myrtleford NORTH East Water (NEW) is calling on Myrtleford residents to reduce their water use as ongoing dry conditions, low stream flows and reduced raw water storage levels point to possible water restrictions in the coming months.

The town’s water supply, sourced from Buffalo Creek, is part of the unregulated Ovens and King rivers system, which heavily relies on natural rainfall and climate conditions.

NEW general manager environment, systems & operations, John Day, said Myrtleford was particularly vulnerable during dry periods.

“When flows in Buffalo Creek fall below 4.5 megalitres per day, we need to stop water extraction to protect the health of the river system”, Mr Day said.

“This threshold has been reached multiple times already this year, often for extended periods, highlighting the challenges of our current water source.”

Storage levels reflect not only the recent dry months, but also the impacts of a drier-thanaverage summer in 2023–24, followed by a winter period in which storages were not fully replenished. Further compounding the issue, water demand in Myrtleford rose above the five-year average from January to March this year.

“The Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecast suggests there is potential for continued dry periods in the coming months,” Mr Day said.

How can the community help?

To avoid restrictions for Myrtleford, North East Water is seeking the community’s help to reduce household water use.

“Specifically, we are aiming for

Challenge on, to raise $25,000 to support local communities THE challenge has been set to raise $25,000 from now until 30 June to support community-driven projects in the Myrtleford and surrounding communities.

Grow Myrtleford+, a sub-fund of Into Our Hands Community Foundation, has launched its 2025 End of Financial Year (EOFY) Challenge, aiming to raise the funds to strengthen and support local communities.

Chair of Grow Myrtleford+, Fiona Nicholls, said the EOFY Challenge is an opportunity for residents, local businesses and visitors to invest in the community’s future.

“We’ve seen firsthand the tangible difference these funds can make,” Ms Nicholls said.

“Over the past 12 months, Grow Myrtleford+ has helped bring a wide range of projects to life – from improving emergency response capacity through upgraded lighting for the local SES unit, to revitalising Barwidgee Creek with native flora and weed control.

“We’ve also supported much-loved community organisations like the Myrtleford Toy Library and bowls club, and funded essential repairs at the Ovens Valley Canine Club.

“One of our proudest achievements was hosting the Twilight Carols in the Myrtleford Piazza – an event that brought the whole community together in celebration and showcased just how powerful local giving can be.”

Ms Nicholls said the 2025 EOFY Challenge seeks to build on this momentum, providing more grants to grassroots initiatives that benefit all age groups and interests.

“We are a small community with big ideas, and Grow Myrtleford+ ensures those ideas get the backing they need,” she said.

“Donations large or small help us grow the kind of community we all want to be part of.”

Donations can be made online at https:// intoourhandsfoundation.com.au/growmyrtleford All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and every dollar raised stays local.

Grow Myrtleford+ is managed by local volunteers and supported by Into Our Hands Community Foundation, with all funds held in perpetuity for the benefit of the Myrtleford community.

WATER WATCH: Residents are asked to be mindful not to waste water, ahead of potential water restrictions as inflows to Buffalo Creek stall.. a 14 per cent reduction in town water use to 1,300,000 litres per day,” Mr Day said.

“To meet this target, residential usage needs to reduce to 505 litres per household per day.

“Currently average household water usage per day is 590 litres per household.

“If we see a strong community response to reducing demand, we may be able to avoid restrictions or delay their implementation.

“We know from experience that communities respond best when supported to make positive

changes, rather than being subject to restrictions.”

North East Water’s voluntary reduction period will run from now until mid-June 2025 to allow the community to respond to and sustain reduced water use.

“We’re encouraging everyone to continue following the Permanent Water Saving Rules which are in place across Victoria, and also explore additional ways to reduce water usage at home and in gardens,” Mr Day said.

“We know from experience that communities respond best when empowered to make posi-

WEEKLY DRAW TUESDAY 20TH MAY 2025 www.corcoranparker.com.au

1. ELD 2. NTR 3. AWN 4. CP

tive changes, rather than being subject to restrictions and we’re confident that Myrtleford will get behind this effort and prove that we can all take action to save water.”

For tips on how to save water and information about Permanent Water Saving Rules and what water restrictions could entail, visit North East Water’s dedicated water conservation website: https://www. newater.com.au/pwsr.

Customers can also view the town’s daily performance and weekly water use scorecard at www.waterwise.tips/myrtleford.

SUNDAYS First Sunday of the Month

1:30PM - 4:30PM

Live @ Live music and afternoon tea.

All members will receive 1 free wine, beer or soft drink with each ticket.

Pre-ordered lunch option available To be served from 12noon - 1:15pm.

Menu available 3 weeks prior to

JUNE 1ST JULY 6TH AUGUST 3RD Justin Keane: 0427 927 500 jkeane@corcoranparker.com.au Reiley Murtagh: 0455 550 625 rmurtagh@corcoranparker.com.au Henry Dundas: 0428 573 109 Harvey Benton: 0407 265 240

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

Brady Purcell: 0437 611 615 Laurie Purcell: 0458 577 201

“Experience and Reputation”

Harris Doodewaard: 0408 851 333 Dane Fountain 0436 442 306

SEPTEMBER 7TH OCTOBER 5TH

Bruce Poulter Glenn Starr Ray MacCartney TBC Joe Attana

NOVEMBER 2ND

Tom Routledge

DECEMBER 7TH

TBC

TICKETS

Members $20 Non-members $25 55 Pyles Lane, Laceby dvsc.wang@gmail.com @davincisocialclub Pip 0409 307 606

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 27

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SOLAR FACTORY

With VCAT appeal right taken from us...

This is our last chance to send a strong message to the GOVERNMENT that we will not be “BULLIED” and “WALKED OVER” as a community.

!

Help UFsight

Join the

RALLY FOR THE KING VALLEY YOUR LAST CHANCE TO BE HEARD Say

to Meadow Creek Solar Factory

to a SOLAR HUB of Panels and Batteries in your KING VALLEY

Say

The amended Meadow Creek Solar Farm documents lodged make a mockery of our community.

The Proponents have not answered a single community concern around: 1. Loss of strategic high-value agricultural land 2. Visual and environmental impact on the King Valley 3. Disruption to farming and rural community life 4. Thermal Run-off Risk into the King River and your drinking water 5. Traffic impact on the township of Oxley and it’s Primary School 6. Over 420 objections to date but we need more

JOIN THE RALLY

TAKE ACTION

www.meadowcreeksolar.com.au

DATE: Thursday, 22nd of May TIME: 10:00 am at Oxley General Store

followed by a CONVOY to the proposed site, finishing at the Bobinawarrah Hall

WANTED: Trucks, Tractors, Utes, Cars and Community Members with SIGNS

SOLAR FACTORY

Save Ovens & King Valley Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group

Authorised by Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group

Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Rural City Connection Friday 16 May 2025 Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta

Business Health Check Take the Business Health Check Survey via Connect Wangaratta.

Share what’s working and what’s not, so we can better support local businesses like yours. Survey closes 23 May. connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/business-health-check

Community Grants Open The annual Community Grants Program is now open! The Program seeks to empower organisations dedicated to making a positive impact within our community. Applications are due

by Thursday 5 June. To assist potential applicants, information sessions will be held throughout May. These provide an opportunity to ask questions directly of Council Officers. For more information: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/CommunityGrants .

All Outdoor Expo Your outdoor adventure starts here! Come along to a day of outdoor activities and local trade displays. Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls offering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear, and bicycles to fishing, hunting equipment, and more!

Sunday 1 June, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Wangaratta.vic.gov.au/ All-Outdoor-Expo-2025

Firewood Depots Open

National Sorry Day Workshop Join us on Monday 26 May for National Sorry Day • Free cultural inclusion workshop • Hosted by Anita Morgan (nee Cooper) and Kevin Cooper • Sydney Beach @ 10.30 -11.30am Traditional Owners Anita Morgan (nee Cooper) and Kevin Cooper will deliver a cultural inclusion workshop featuring a smoking ceremony, storytelling, and damper making. This workshop aims to deepen community understanding of Aboriginal history and the profound significance of Sorry Day.

Council’s firewood depots at Glenrowan and Eldorado are now open to residents of the Rural City of Wangaratta. Those planning to gather firewood need to purchase a permit from the Government Centre or the Glenrowan Post Office. Permits are not available to purchase from the Eldorado store this year. For more information search Firewood Collection on our website.

Wangaratta.vic.gov.au/firewood

Community Vision Provide feedback on our draft Community Vision via Connect connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/reviewing-our-community-vision, or at one of our upcoming drop-in sessions: • Monday, 26 May 9 - 11 am | Wangaratta Government Centre, Foyer 1 • Thursday, 29 May 4 – 6 pm | Wangaratta Library, Foyer

Expressions of Interest – Office Space Available

Community Engagement Report You can access the Community Engagement report for the Council Plan and Community Vision, here: https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/council-plan

Premium office spaces available on the ground floor of the Wangaratta Government Centre.

• Prime location with government services • Two areas available approx. 475m2 and 527m2.

Smaller spaces can be accommodated.

• Flexible office space options • Off-street parking Contact Garry Nash & Co. to discuss. www.garrynash.com.au

Tenders T17779 Theatre Asset Renewal Tenders close Wednesday 21 May 2025 at 12pm Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Council’s website

Positions Vacant Need Support Chat to our friendly Aged Care team each Thursday between 10 – 2pm at the Wangaratta Library. If you have questions about Home Care Packages, My Aged Care, or ways to stay safe and independent at home, we will guide you through your options. No appointment needed—just drop by. Prefer to chat on the phone?

Give us a call on 1300 982 662.

Role Aged & Community Coordinator Early Childhood Educator - Level 2 Finance Business Partner Supervisor - Waste & Organics - Organics Safety and Wellbeing Coordinator Customer Experience Team Leader

Abandoned Vehicle On 8 May 2025 Council Officers impounded an abandoned vehicle from the Snow Rd, Milawa. The vehicle is a white Toyota Landcruiser Prado with no number plates. Council requests the owner contact Customer Service to claim the vehicle.

Closing 19-May-25 19-May-25 19-May-25 19-May-25 19-May-25 26-May-25

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

Contact your Councillors Tania Maxwell

Appin Ward 0447824785 t.maxwell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

David Fuller

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

Harry Bussell

King River Ward 0429 475 863

h.bussell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harvey Benton

Deputy Mayor Ovens Ward 0429 542 928 h.benton@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Irene Grant

Mayor Warby Ward 0428 189 249 i.grant@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 4.30pm Closed - Public Holidays

Ashlee Fitzpatrick

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

Allison Winters

Yarrunga Ward 0437 181 228 a.winters@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

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

WHEN TO BOOK

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 29

Chronicle Classifieds 2pm business day prior to print North East Jobs 3pm Friday

SELLING A CAR

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

from $42

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

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 PUBLIC NOTICE

ON EXHBITION

Indigo Shire Council is inviting feedback on a number of key strategic documents that will shape our community’s future.

The following documents are now on public exhibition until 4 June: New Council Plan 2025-2029 - Our strategic priorities and actions for the next four years Revised 10 Year Community Vision - Your collective aspirations for Indigo Shire’s future Draft Budget 2025/26 - Our proposed financial allocations for the coming year Draft 10 Year Financial Plan - Our long-term financial sustainability roadmap Draft Revenue and Rating Plan - How Council funds essential services and infrastructure Draft Operating Income and Expense by Service Plan - Details of service costs and funding Draft Capital Works Commentary - Our capital program for the coming year

GARAGE SALE O L D WA R E S , collectables, records, home wares, rustic, glassware and furniture. Items must be vintage, pre 1980.

Call Rebecca 0400 327 696, or David 0418 665 420. No electrical, bedding or jewelery.

CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.

How to view the documents: Online: www.engage.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Need assistance? Contact our Customer Experience Team on 1300 365 003

CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, d r i ve wa y s, s h e d slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

Submissions close: 5pm Wednesday, 4 June 2025 All submissions will be considered at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday, 23 June 2025.

FRANKS DOG T R A I N I N G , b e h a v i o r a l solutions, qualified, experienced, affordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610

How to make a submission: Email: info@indigoshire.vic.gov.au (include the document name in your subject line) Post: Indigo Shire Council, PO Box 28, Beechworth 3747

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au

LEGAL John Eric Medved Late of 219 Goodwins Lane, Milawa, Victoria 3678, deceased.

CREDITORS, next of kin, and others having claims in respect of the estate of the above named deceased, who died on 24 February 2024 are required by the executors, Steven Walter Sartori and Marie Desiree Jessica Sartori, c/- 33 Ely Street, WANGARATTA VIC 3677, to send particulars of their claims to them by the 5th day of July 2025 after which date the executors may convey or distribute the assets [and distribute the estate], having regard only to the claims of which they then have notice. Probate was granted in Victoria on 16 December 2024.

Dated: 01 May 2025 SARTORI LEGAL SERVICES PTY LTD Sartori Legal Services 33 Ely Street WANGARATTA VIC 3677 PO Box 313 WANGARATTA VIC 3676 Ph: 03 5721 8500 Fax: 03 5721 9404 SWS:JS:241517 Contact Steven Walter Sartori

FOR SALE FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101

TYRES n ew an d secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, We d n e s d a y, 4 4 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

Emailyouradvert

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Kitchens ava i la bl e b efo re Christmas. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.

L A W N MOWING,pruning and rose pruning, quality work at a competitive price.

Phone Paul 0431 945 320 MARK’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.

W H E E L E R Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and sp rea d i n g , r u ra l work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.





To Visit

Visited

M OV I NG g a r a g e sale - books, DVDs, decorative plates, bowls and china, glasses, pendants, books, CDs, various tools, large chest of drawers, wardrobe, doilies, TV cabinets, nuts and bolts cabinet, ladders, computer cabinet, d e sk , p a i n t i n g s, Playstation 2 games, pot plants, clown ornaments, bar fridge, bookcase and much, much more!

8.30am Saturday, May 17, 7 Leishman Street, Wangaratta cash only.

HOLDEN VZ SS Thunder Ute, 2006 6 litre auto, Leather trim, RWC, 6 months re g ( 1 G O - 1 GA), 222,000kms, $24,950, ONO, Phone Peter on 0412 527 477.

NISSAN X-Trail STIL 2011, leather interior, good condition, towball, all wheel drive, 2ton capacity, reg (YOF136), $4200 firm. Ph 0403 431 390.

EMPLOYMENT

Teaching Opportunity at Jamieson Primary School.

EVERNEW 16ft pop-top caravan for sale, “Elite” model in immaculate condition, twin beds, new Dunlopillo mattresses, two new adult sleeping bags, new interior carpet, built in microwave oven; portable T.V. an d DV D playe r, plus T.V. aerial, two spare wheels, two gas bottles, towing hitch with support bars, jack for front and side lift, new caravan cover, pull out awning and separate annexe walls and poles, fly screens o n a l l w i n d o w s, extra equipment and accessories includes electric water jug, $9750. Ph 0419 348 033.

2022 15ft Signature Iridium S Offroad Hybrid van, great condition, $49,900, more details on Caravancampersales. com.au. Ph 0418 609 WINDSOR Seaview 877.

Caravan for sale, $23,500, dual axle, 2x 100 ltr water tanks, recently serviced and new awning installed, porta loo with privacy tent, full annex, 3 way ref r i ge ra t o r, single beds, FULLY EQUIPPED including a new 24” Smar t TV, 2 sets of linen, everything you need to pack up and go, immaculate Classifieds condition. Contact Brian on 0400 309 747, leave a message Phone: 03 5723 0101 if unavailable.

Phone:

(03)

5723 0101

EMPLOYMENT

If you don't use it...

Bangerang Aboriginal Corporation – Treaty Manager

Wangaratta/Shepparton Part - full time (0.8 - 1.0 FTE negotiable) 12 months fixed term to June 2026 Salary $83,277 plus super.

Bangerang are the People of the Tall Trees, Traditional Owners of northern and north-east Victoria and southern New South Wales.

The Treaty Manager is a new role supported by the Self Determination Fund through Phase 1 of the Equal Footing Funding Program.

The Treaty Manager will be responsible for delivering Treaty readiness activities, supporting Nation building activities and providing project, executive and administrative support to the Corporation.

Please contact admin@bacch.org.au for further information including a Position Description.

PRIVATE NURSING HOME

Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for

Classifieds

WORK!

Classifieds Work!

Position: F-Grade 2 Generalist Teacher Location: Jamieson Township Immediate Start Jamieson Primary School is on the lookout for a passionate and dedicated F-Grade 2 Generalist Teacher EFT 1.0 to join our small, close-knit school community.

This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the academic and social development of young learners in a charming and supportive environment.

Currently, Jamieson Primary School has an enrolment of 14 students, with 6 of those children in the prep to 2 room allowing you to work closely with each child.

We are focused on developing students’ academic and social skills, fostering positive attitudes, and nurturing strong values. Our goal is to empower students to grow into wellrounded, confident individuals who will thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

A historical, fully renovated schoolhouse is available for rent as per the departmental guidelines.

To apply go to Recruitment online https://www.vic.gov.au/school-jobs

Sell it!

Classifieds get results.

5723 0101

REGISTERED NURSES Aged Care experience required.

A variety of shifts available.

Email resumes to facilitymanagerw@meracare.com.au

Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

90TH BIRTHDAY

Myra Dolton

BENALLA RURAL CITY COUNCIL Project Manager – Community Development Fund Full-Time for 18 months

We are seeking a Project Manager with an Economic Development background that is qualified, experienced, and a natural collaborator.

The role will build on the opportunities identified in the Local Development Strategy (LDS) and the Regional Development Fund. The Project Manager will lead key projects identified in the LDS into proposals for development and investment under the Community Development Fund, and manage the outcomes required of these projects.

The incumbent will require a good understanding of the Benalla region and proven experience in collaboration, building relationships and project management preferably in an economic development setting. A relevant tertiary qualification or extensive experience is preferred.

For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Manager Economic Development and Sustainability, Courtney Naughton on 03 5761 2211.

Administrative and Customer Relations Officer Part-Time (0.8 EFT 30.4 hours per week) Work with us and make a difference.

We are making a difference in local government. We strive for excellence and are consistently finding better ways to create and deliver quality services to our community.

Benalla Rural City Council has an exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate Administrative and Customer Relations Officer to join our high performing and dynamic Customer Relations Team.

Are you a customer service professional with excellent communication skills? Do you enjoy delivering outstanding customer service across multiple contact channels?

Reporting to the Customer Relations Coordinator, you will demonstrate the ability to deliver responsive and seamless customer service using the latest customer contact technology and systems.

Your ability to work effectively within a vibrant fast paced team environment, using online customer information tools and corporate systems is essential.

Does this sound like you? If so, we look forward to receiving your application and welcome you to join us as we advance our customer service delivery across Council.

You will be required to undertake a police check before commencement.

For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Manager People and Performance Janine McMaster on 03 5760 2661.

Youth Development Officer Temporary Part-Time (0.5 EFT 19 hours per week) February 2027

Are you passionate about working with young people?

If so, we are currently looking for a Youth Development Officer to help create and run youth-led events and activities in our community.

The role will include working directly with young people to plan and deliver exciting initiatives and empower youth to connect with the community and develop new skills.

We are seeking an individual with a genuine interest in youth development and event coordination, and the ability to build strong, positive relationships with young people.

For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Youth Development Coordinator, Stephanie Brack on 03 5760 2611.

Download an Employment Information Pack for any of these positions at www.benalla.vic.gov.au or obtain a pack from Human Resources Coordinator Rhonda McDonald, telephone 03 5760 2662.

Applications addressing key selection should reach us by 5 pm Friday 23 May 2025.

Benalla Rural City Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Child Safe Organisation.

www.benalla.vic.gov.au EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Finance Officer

Truck Driver/Meat Lumper

Do you like numbers?

Is attention to detail a trait often attributed to you?

Do you have accounting software experience?

Does the flexibility of managing your own work hours (between 12 and 38 hours per week) align with your needs?

Do you have an enthusiasm to learn?

We are a growing organisation which manages Early Childhood services and looking for a suitable person to manage processes including payroll, payments, finance balancing and reporting.

Come and join our small but dynamic team with flexible work options considered.

For further information and a position description contact 0409 025 724 or manager@nerpsa.com.au.

Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

Applications close Friday 30th May.

5723 0101

Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person able to be a delivery driver to distribute carcass meat throughout Victoria and the Riverina to local butchers and supermarkets.

Early morning starts to allow delivery to butchers during the day and some heavy lifting is involved.

We are prepared to teach the suitable person lifting techniques to assist with carcass deliveries.

HEAVY RIGID LICENSE ESSENTIAL. This is an opportunity to build towards a long term position with our company.

Apply by return response to this advertisement, call Peter Booth on 5721 2349 or come in and see us at 53 Greta Road, Wangaratta.

CreditCard& Eftposfacilities

Classifieds

Turns 90 Celebrates with friends at Intermezzo.

She tells us she has 42 Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

Early Childhood Educators

We’re hiring passionate Educators for our Early Childhood Services in Moyhu, Whitfield, and Whorouly.

Incentives available for eligible applicants at these locations!

You will enjoy supportive teams, paid professional development aligned with your career goals, access to our EAP, family focused employment, and much more!

Children’s safety and wellbeing are central to our purpose, deeply ingrained in our daily practices and the nurturing environments where they feel safe, secure, valued, and empowered.

We are deeply committed to creating inclusive and diverse workplaces. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Your unique experiences and perspectives will enrich our teams and the lives of the children we educate.

The successful applicant will have: • Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care • Strong commitment to child safety You will have or be willing to obtain: • First Aid Training • Asthma and Anaphylaxis Training • Valid Working with Children Check (Employee) • Police Check • Mandatory Reporting Certification • Australian working rights – Visa/ Passport

To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your experience, and contact details for three referees, to hr@nerpsa.com.au.

Visit www.nerpsa.com.au for more information.

Applications close Friday 30th May.

CLASSIFIEDS WORK - 5723 0101

Board of Management Opportunity

• Would you like to make a difference?

• Can you spare a couple of hours a month?

• Would you like to meet other motivated people?

• Would you like to learn new skills?

The Board of NERPSA is inviting expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced members of the community to join us. NERPSA is a not-for-profit association whose vision is helping children reach their potential through excellence in early childhood education. We oversee the management of fourteen early childhood services (incorporating both Kindergarten and Long Day Care) in the local area and comprise both community and parent representatives.

If you have skills in human resources, education, law, finance, management, Board experience, risk management or OHS, or are just passionate about the future direction of early childhood education, please contact our Manager, Leigh, on 0409 025724 or manager@nerpsa.com.au for further information.

Emailyouradvert ______________classifieds@nemedia.com.au

18TH BIRTHDAY 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

18 AT LAST!

18

AVA SYDNEY HARRISON-RAKNES.

18

May 16, 2025 Happy 18th The day’s finally here. ~ Love from The Mothers, Grandparents and extended family.

18

18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

DEATH NOTICES DAVIES,

Thora Jean.

Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the grand old age of 93.

She lived a full and happy life, was dearly loved and will be sorely missed by her sons; Graham, Rob, Dave (dec), Tony, their partners and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Always in our hearts.

DAVIES, Thora.

Our beloved Mum, You were such a wonderful, loving and caring Mum and soulmate, always there for us, always compassionate, always doing the right thing.

Life seems dimmer without you.

But you touched so many people’s hearts and your memory will continue to live on in them.

Miss you deeply already. ~ All our love, Graham and Chris.

FINLAY,

Samuel John Patrick “Sam”.

8/6/1945 – 11/5/2025 Late of St Catherines Hostel Wangaratta.

Loved Brother of Andrew McBryde and brother-in-law of Elizabeth (Libby).

Loved and respected Uncle of Simon, James and Sarah and their families.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 31

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace DEATH NOTICES

KING, James (Jimmy, Jim).

13/2/1935 – 11/5/2025

FINLAY, Sam. The Committee of Management, Management, Staff and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Andrew, Libby and family on Sam’s passing.

DEATH NOTICES

HUDSON, Kendric Francis.

2/4/1938-14/5/2025 Beloved son of John Sydney Hudson and Mary Hannah Hudson (nee Comensoli) (both dec).

Loved brother to Alan (dec), Max and Ian and sisters-in-law Lyn and Kay. Devoted father to David and daughter-in-law Pina.

Grandfather to Leigh, Holly, Daniel and Nicole, and great-grandfather to Beau.

Your journey is now over, rest peacefully.

Forever more.

HUDSON, Kendric Francis.

2/4/1938 – 14/5/2025 To Dad, Although your journey has now tragically ended, I know you lived life your way.

I will cherish the memories and truly appreciate your support, guidance and adventures we had throughout our lives.

Until we meet again.

Please rest in peace.

Forever more. ~Your loving son David.

HUDSON, Kendric Francis.

2/4/1938 – 14/5/2025 A life well lived, along the bumpy road.

We will remember and cherish the good times.

Rest peacefully. ~ Love David, Pina, Leigh, Natasha and Beau, Holly and Adam, Daniel, Nicole and Brad.

Passed away peacefully at Myrtleford Lodge.

Loving husband of Lyn (dec).

Cherished Dad to Belinda (dec), Jamie and Jenny.

Beloved Poppy to Ebony and Luca.

Father-in-law to Maurice and Step Poppy to Jenna and Georgia.

Favourite son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle to the King family.

He built his life with steadfast might, A shining beacon, burning bright.

A father’s heart, a husband’s soul, A story told, making us whole.

We’ll carry on, with love and light, His memory will forever shine, so right.

Dad we can never thank you enough for the absolute, devotion, love and care you gave to Mum. May you rest easy now you are back with your adored Lyn and Belinda.

Special thanks to the team at the Myrtleford Lodge for their care and support to Dad over the years.

DEATH NOTICES LONGHURST, Ian Kelvin.

15/6/1951 – 10/5/2025 Passed away unexpectedly at home in Wangaratta.

Loved brother of Kathryn Perry and Robin Longhurst.

Brother-in-law of Lyall.

Uncle to Chelsea and Michael.

Loved and remembered always.

For funeral details please see later paper.

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

MILLS,

Angela Irene.

15/7/1929-10/5/2025 Late of Hansonville.

Aged 95 years.

Daughter of Richard and Eileen (both dec).

Loved wife of Brian “Dick” (dec).

Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Vinnie and Kerri.

Mother of Joseph.

Loving Nan to Simon, Jerome and Claire.

Loved great-grandmother of Chaise and Logan.

O’BRIEN (nee Langer),

LEITCH, Lesley Rae. 21/6/1937 – 13/5/2025 It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Lesley Rae Leitch on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Loving wife of Les of 69 years, cherished Mum of Judith (dec), Heather, Mervyn, Deanne, Steven, Glenn (dec) and partners.

Nanna, Nan and Super Nan to all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day”

Rosemarie.

25/9/1945 - 5/5/2025 Late of Edi. Passed away suddenly at Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Aged 79 years.

Loving wife of Mick (dec).

Loved sister of Else (dec), Mavis, Allison and Wilma.

“A guiding light to many”.

DEATH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES O’BRIEN, Rosie.

LEVESQUE, James.

13/8/1969 - 11/5/2025 Dearly loved son-in-law, brother-in-law and Uncle.

A gentle soul with a big heart, a quiet achiever.

His coaching and guidance of the nephews and nieces will be fondly remembered.

Jim gave so much to our family and will be sorely missed.

Many memories to cherish. ~ Bill and Helen, Brian and Ginette, Jen and Ben, Brett and Justine, Zac and Zali, Reggie, Darcy, Josh and Chloe, Kyan and Nell, and Tayah.

O’BRIEN, Rosemarie.

25/9/1945 – 5/5/2025 Greatly missing a dear friend and mentor.

Kevin and Diane Newton, Christine and Owen, Thomas and Joshua, and Kaitlin.

Greatly missed

by Suzie.

Special thank you to Ambulance Victoria.

A humble human – hardworking, talented, inspirational and independent.

You expanded many, many lives Rosie.

You will be sadly missed. ~ Chris Jamo, Riccy and Neri.

DEATH NOTICES

PACE (née Brewer),

Yvonne “Evie”.

24/4/1953 - 9/5/2025 Much loved daughter of Keith (dec) and Beryl Brewer.

Dearly Loved wife of Lucio.

Devoted mother and mother-in-law to Renato and Kira, Domenic (dec) and Lorenzo and Dom. Cherished and adored Nonna to Sienna, Levi, Mia and Xanthe.

Passed away suddenly and peacefully at home, leaving her family in deep sorrow at the loss of a loving and wonderful matriarch.

Evie will be sadly missed by all who knew her including her beloved cats, Chevy and Slinky.

Forever in our hearts, rest in peace.

REICH, Mandy.

The Committee of Management, Management, Staff and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Manfred, Simon, Henry, Wendy and family on Mandy’s passing.

SPENCER, Paul Edward.

5/4/1965 – 7/5/2025 My darling son, you left us to soon.

I am going to miss you so much.

My rock and taxi.

Whenever I needed you, there you were.

I’m sure you’re with Dad and Darren.

Love you forever Pauly. ~ Mum xxx.

SPENCER, Paul.

5/4/1965 – 7/5/2025 My brother Paul, We didn’t get to say goodbye, my heart is broken, you are now with Dad and Darren and you can finally breathe easy.

I love you and miss you so much.

Rest easy now Pauly. ~ Your loving Family Ellen, Stephen, Andrew, Vanessa, Bee, Sarah, David and their families. xxxx

SPENCER, Paul.

LEVESQUE, James.

The St. Bernard’s School community are saddened by the passing of past teacher and Deputy Principal, James Levesque.

James was a gentle teacher and Deputy Principal who was remembered fondly by those he worked with and the children he taught.

Our prayers and condolences are offered to Caz and family.

So hard to say goodbye to my best friend  I will miss you so much.

Thank you for always being there for me.

Love you always Pauly.

Sleep sweet. xxx Your Hilli xxx

Page 32 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace FUNERAL NOTICES

FUNERAL NOTICES

IN MEMORIAM TODAY

23o

Fog then sunny

DAVIES The funeral service to celebrate the life of Thora Davies will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, May 19, 2025 commencing at 10.30am Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Thora’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au FINLAY

The Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Samuel “Sam” Finlay will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street Wangaratta on Monday, May 26, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

A private cremation has been held.

Sam’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

KING

BRUMBY,

O’BRIEN

Darrel “Doc”.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Rosemarie O’Brien will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

A private cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to The Royal Flying Doctors Service in memory of Rosemarie would be appreciated.

Donations can be made at https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/donate/ Rosemarie’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark. com.au/live-streaming/

2 years since your passing Dad. Missed deeply from friends, colleagues, and family.

RIP

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

THU

FRI

SAT

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

$2.00 inc GST

wangarattachronicle.com.au

TION EDUCA2025 WEEK 19–23 May

Celebration

A piece of paradise scarred by graffiti

plus

tv

GUIDE

Page 9

Education in Focus

2025

of cultures

INSIDE

TRAGIC SCENE: WANGARATTA POLICE INVESTIGATED THE WRECKAGE SITE OF A FATAL WARBY RANGE ROAD CRASH WHICH OCCURRED IN THE EARLY HOURS OF TUESDAY MORNING, KILLING A 19-YEAR OLD WANGARATTA MAN. PHOTOS: BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

ROAD REPUTATION: The section of Warby Range Road near Shanley Street which was closed following the fatal crash.

NO REVS: The vehicle’s engine laid in the adjacent paddock to the sedan.

Another life lost “It’s a tragedy” - speed a likely factor in Wangaratta teen’s death

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

SKINNER, Keith Edward “Strop”.

SPEED was determined as a likely factor contributing to the death of a 19-year-old Wangaratta man following a crash in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Sergeant Shaun Hillier of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said around 12:30am, Tuesday police received numerous calls from neighbouring properties as a sedan travelling north on Warby Range Road made a “significant sound” crashing into nearby paddocks and trees on the

straight, narrow South Wangaratta road.

The sole occupant of the vehicle, a 19-year-old Wangaratta man, died at the scene.

“At this stage speed was a contributing factor,” Sgt Hillier said.

Officers continued to investigate the horrific scene throughout Tuesday morning, with the significantly damaged sedan situated in front of nearby homes and its engine in the adjacent paddock.

Vehicle wreckage and fallen tree branches were spread across the

road, as it was closed to the public for the morning.

Sgt Hillier said the loss of the young local driver would have a profound impact on the community.

“It’s a tragedy, particular in these small towns where everyone knows everyone,” he said.

“I’d like to extend my condolences to the family and we’ll continue to investigate the circumstances around the collision.”

The incident comes as police looked to crack down on speed with

a statewide speeding operation on Monday to commence National Road Safety Week.

There have been nine lives lost on Victorian roads since the road safety week began on Sunday, including four on regional roads There was also a fatal collision on a Western Victorian regional road on Saturday afternoon.

Sgt Hillier said the tragic South Wangaratta incident was an unfortunate reminder to change our driving behaviour and reduce our speed, especially on rural roads.

HELP US GIVE THEM A WARM WELCOME YOUR DONATION WILL PROVIDE LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT FOR NEWBORNS. Northeast Health Wangaratta is fundraising to support our newborns and ensure they receive the warmest welcome into the world.

Funds will go to purchase two new neonatal resuscitation cots. These warmers provide critical care for newborns, ensuring they get the best start in life. Your donation will make a real difference!

May 20, 2018.

Time passes, but memories remain. ~ Christine and family.

“I’d like to reinforce to our community that speed is a contributing factor to our collisions and unfortunately it does contribute to road trauma significantly in these areas,” he said.

Sgt Hillier said anyone with information in relation to the crash was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

So far this year 112 lives have been lost on Victorian roads, 10 more than this time last year.

HELP US REACH OUR $70,000 TARGET

FIND OUT MORE AND DONATE AT NHW.ORG.AU/APPEAL supported by:

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Local News.

PACE (nee Brewer) A celebration of Evie’s life will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road,Wangaratta at 11am on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, followed by a private cremation.

All who knew and loved Evie are warmly invited to attend.

The service can be viewed via livestream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au and also uploaded to the Tributes page.

Honouring the Journey

Mason Park Funerals

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021 wangarattachronicle.com.au

Charge up your engines

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

Wangaratta students compare admirably

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition.

New members are always welcome.

For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305.  INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Country stacks up in VCE

2021 - Page 5

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College

BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+.

3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice.

40+. figure.

Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria were Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Secondary of scores Across the region Goul- median they performed reasonably terparts 40+, Mount Scopus of 30 with 6pc of College had across the state. a median of 28, Memorial College burn Valley Grammar School scores well judging by the VCE study was next 40+.

Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved Clarendon College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

after a year like no other

Wang Repair Café returns

In lieu of flowers a donation to The Royal Children’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated.

 REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.

 HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm.

The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation.

Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

 FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.

A

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra.

“I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said.

“It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve.

“But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.”

Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.

“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said.

“Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

their university offers yesterday.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

offers

“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now.

“Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm.

A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor.

For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

W

O

N

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

LL

Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need.

Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

Teens look to the future with uni

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday.

The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities.

Kayla, 17, has been offered a

CA

The Celebration of Life for the late James (Jimmy, Jim) King will be held at the Myrtleford Golf Club on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 1pm.

All welcome.

21o 20o 20o

Live at home for longer

For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian

Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer.

aGardening and home cleaning aHome nursing services aCaring local staff aTransport for medical appointments a Personal care

Government, Melbourne

1800 242 696 or visit care.lchs.com.au

Latrobe Service

BEREAVEMENT THANKS LEITCH

The service to celebrate the life of Mrs Lesley Rae Leitch will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, May 23, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

MILLS Requiem mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Angela Mills will be offered in the St Patricks Catholic Church, Ford Street Wangaratta on Wednesday May 21, 2025, commencing at 1.30pm.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

Family owned and operated

03 5722 2525 www.northeastfunerals.com.au

O’KEEFFE, Gavan.

We sincerely thank family and friends for flowers, cards, food and support on the passing of Gavan O’Keeffe.

We especially thank Dr Brett Hamilton and staff at the Albury Cancer Centre for their outstanding dedication, care, compassion and support.

Thank you to Dr Andrew Hebbard and Dr Simon Brettig for Gavan’s care in Wangaratta.

Thank you to North East Funerals, Kat Watts, Darren Lamotte and the Gateway for their support and help in celebrating Gavan’s life.

Thank you to the Tarrawingee Football and Netball Club for the Guard of Honour and friendships.

Remember your loved one in a lasting way The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community.

Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

~ Kaye, Kellie, Nicole, Rory, Kaz and families.

PORTER,

Mervyn Raymond.

Passed away April 28, 2025.

Heather, Glen, Mark, Cheree and family wish to extend our sincere thanks for the condolences and support since the passing of Merv.

Your kindness has meant so much to our family during this difficult time.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.

To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5310 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Subscribe now at

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 33

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Ryan Avenue greens host North East croquet final

By TERRY WILSON ON Wednesday, 14 May the North Eastern Croquet Association Pennant Final was played at Wangaratta’s Ryan Avenue greens between Beechworth and Benalla in beautiful autumn sunshine.

At the halfway mark of the

ureen Freshwater.

Maria Harvey and Ma

Helen Malone, Paddy O’Brien, Christine Blay and Julia O’Brien.

day Beechworth were well in front, however, Benalla rallied to almost overtake them.

Eventually, Beechworth won, seven games and 67 hoops to Benalla, five games and sixty five hoops with the last game being the decider, going to Beechworth 7/6.

 Lyn Moulday lets one go from distance.

Sue Rue and Cheryle Beckle y.

d Dawn McQuilton.

Maureen O’Keefe an

SCOREBOARD JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

THURSDAY, 8 May Ladies’ 18 hole and 9 hole stableford Winner: Tamara O’Connor 34. 9 hole Winner: Joy Hester 16.

Ball Winners: Mary Jones 31. 9 Hole Ball: C Myles 15.

NTPs - 13th: Mary Jones .

Saturday, 10 May Ladies’ Stroke A Grade winner: Di Murphy +3. B Grade winner: Josie Fitzsimons +5.

Ball winners: Ros White +6, Kellie Roberts +7, Jackie O’Brien +8.

NTPs - 4th: L Carmody, 8th: J O’Brien, 13th: R White, 17th: Ali Comensoli.

Men’s Stroke, second round of championships A Grade: Mitchell Bush -1. Runner up: Tom Arnold E. B Grade: Glenn O’Connell -2. Runner up: Nic Bonwick +1.

C Grade: Mark Flack -3. Runner up: Bill O’Brien +2.

D Grade: Steve Deverell -2. Runner up: Daine Porter E. Ball Winners: John Johnstone +1, Robert Voss +1, Ben Waite +2, Greg Rigoni +2, Bill O’Brien +2, Matt Walker +3, Gary Dinsdale +3, Jaxon Osmotherly +3, Simon Groves +3, Bronte Bruce +3, Ben Honeychurch +3, Adrian Speziale +4, Bert Verway +4, Doug Ritchens +4, Brian Thomas +4, Steve Fisher +4, Mark Hall C/B +4.

NTPs - 4th: R Voss, 8th: M Bush, 13th: Matt Sanders, 17th: Dean Jones.

Sunday, 11 May Medley Stableford Winner: Tory Keast 44.

Ball winners: Andrew Keast 37,

Frank Bonacci from Beechworth plays his shot in the match against Benalla.

Jack Lloyd 36, Ian Mills 33.

NTPs - 8th: S Coghill.

Tuesday, 13 May Ladies’ Stroke A Grade winner: Judy Fogerty -2. B Grade winner: Joy Hester -3.

Ball winners: Wendy Hogan +2, Mary Jones +5, Robyn Grealy +5.

NTPs - 4th: Joy Hester, 8th: Jackie O’Brien, 13th: Jackie O’Brien, 17th: Wendy Hogan.

Wednesday, 14 May Men’s 18 Hole Stableford A Grade winner: Joshua Ormond 32. B Grade winner: Lawrence Miller37. C Grade winner: Stan Goldsworthy 33 C/B. Ball winners: Peter Geldens 35, Jim Moore 33C/B, Gordon Hines 33.

Men’s 9 hole stableford Winner: Greg Rigoni 21.

Ball winners: Matt Walker 19, Alan White 18, Mark Nolan 18, Paul Nolan 17.

NTPs - 4th: A White.

Ladies are definitely welcome to also join the members for a day’s golf.

It will be an 11.30am roll up for a 12pm hit-off.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee club with first year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees - this can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.

Tarra Ladies Last Tuesday the Tarra Ladies played the fourth round of the championships.

They also played for the May Monthly Medal.

The winner this month was Joan Quarrell on a countback from Di McLaughlin.

Joan also had excellent shots on the second and the fourth to pick up the NTP trophies on these holes.

Least putts for the day was Di McLaughlin.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

RESULTS for Monday the 12th of May are as follows: Wendy Waddington and Terry Wilson d Elise Downes and Maureen O’Keefe 7/4, Margaret Bennett and Gavan Kelly d Cheryle Beckley and Robyn Muller 7/5, Judy Amery and Nathan Reynolds d Joan Dyson and Jed Hart 7/1.

Andy Barbero finished seventh out of 42 entrants in the Croquet Australia Singles Championship held last week in Melbourne.

Beechworth played Benalla in the final of the NEDCA Pennant competition which was hosted by Wangaratta last Wednesday, with Beechworth prevailing seven games to five.

THE members played the second round of the club championships with the winner for the day being Ken Miller 80/18/ 62, and the runner up was Alex McMillan nett 64.

Nearest the pin on the fourth was Mark Nolan - there were no other NTPs for the day.

After the second round of the club championships the leader is Ken Miller 165, followed by Mark Nolan 186.

Golf to be played on Saturday, May 17 will be the third round of the club championships in conjunction with the President’s Trophy.

WANG CROQUET

Judy Amery from Benalla gest one close. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

En route along this track Michael pointed out a koala high up in a gum tree looking down at us.

Lunch was enjoyed at the top with excellent views to the Warbys.

Luis was the artist in our group and took to sketching the view before we headed back down to Kangaroo Track, continued to Mull Track and then followed the bush track to Reedy Creek.

We then followed the foot track through the various campsites along Reedy Creek, past Top Cut dam and WARBY WALKERS back to Eldorado.

Overall, our walk was a little longer SATURDAY, 10 May, Kangaroo Hill, than anticipated at 16km and took six Eldorado. hours, and like many other parts of We had 12 attendees on Saturthe North East it is very dry, particuday’s loop walk to Kangaroo Hill at Eldorado which included five casuals, larly for this time of the year.

Well done to Aakash, our youngest four walking with us for the first time walker on the day. and the other who has since joined Coming Events our club.

Tuesday, 20 May, Native Dog Peak, Starting at Gunhouse Park in EldoEldorado - Lesley, 0439 776 687. rado we wandered down to follow An easy/medium walk of approxiReid’s Walk, which passes through mately 11km mostly on relatively flat a reserve near Reedy Creek, and 4WD gravel track, with a short section crossed over the Swing Bridge. off track to the rocky lookout at NaReedy Creek is a creek bed with pools of water but no running stream tive Dog Peak.

Excellent views along the Woolshed at this time - last year this walk was cancelled due to it being way too full Valley.

Sunday, 25 May, Lake William for a creek crossing.

Hovell to Top Crossing Hut - Michael, We continued on a bush track to 0447 617 880.

Lonie’s Gap Road and ascending to A medium walk of approximately Ramsay Track.

15km on gravel road beside the After that climb, we kept ambling along Mull Track where Ingrid spotted shores of Lake William Hovell, and bush tracks, following the King River three kangaroos before reaching the to Top Crossing Hut, Wabonga. now dry waterfall for morning tea.

There is a couple of river crossings We continued on Mull Track to involved, so bring along spare shoes a bush track which led us towards and poles.

Kangaroo Hill.

Two weeks ago, Maureen O’Keefe won her division in the Twin City Social Day. Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.

Page 34 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Mixed results for Dragons DIVISION TWO MEN THE division two men played against top of the ladder Corowa United on Sunday morning.

Strong passing, quick movement and great defence meant by the end of the first quarter, no goals were scored.

In the second quarter, a lucky short corner gave Corowa the lead.

The Dragons, however, found an opportunity to move quickly through the Corowa defence and Matt Vogels scored.

The second half showed some great play from both sides - Cam Leatham and Shannon Beacom chanced many long balls to give opportunities.

Corowa also found opportunities WHAT A FEELING: Mat Vogels celebrates a goal.

PHOTOS: Wes Samson to score, scoring four extra goals. the first time this year still had However, Michael McMurrie on Saturday afternoon. smashed through the Corowa deWith a few key players out, a plenty to do, making many great fence to leave the final score as 5-2. couple of key inclusions meant the saves as well as surprising the opmen’s team put on a very good dis- position with his aggressive defensive style. play of teamwork.

DIVISION THREE WOMEN More training this week to reinTim Longman coming back into The division three women Dragons brought their A-game on Satur- the lineup after a couple of weeks force the team work the team has day in a thrilling match against the off, picked up right where he left been building on, as the men take on Wodonga in Wangaratta and try off.

Falcons in Wangaratta.

With some good running and to overturn the result from the last The match was competitive and closely contested early on, but the passing across the midfield, he time they met.

Dragons pulled ahead with con- combined well with Simon Lipshut, fident plays and solid coverage Michael Wheeler and Stuart Kerr in UNDER 16 GIRLS pressuring the Falcons defence. across the field.

The Wangaratta under 16 girls Stewart Kerr had an outstand- combined with Corowa Rutherglen Their efforts paid off with a deciing game controlling the ball into to outplay the Falcons on a very sive 5–0 victory.

A huge congratulations to Char- attack, combining well with Izaac brisk Friday evening. lotte Bongers and Louise Trenkner Cameron (in a two on one situaLily Radnor, Aimee Mclaurin and for scoring their first goals of the tion) with the Falcons goalie giving Amelia McAliece provided solid season, and to Lesley Forman, the assist to Izaac for the first goal support to the team in a fast-paced Emma Gall, and Kate Reilly for add- of the game. match.

Stewart’s form continued into the ing one each to the scoreboard.

The United team ran away with We’d like to extend a big thank second half with a well-timed run a very convincing victory over the you to everyone who contributed into the Falcons’ defensive circle, Falcons 2-0. on the day – from players and sup- to a goal and seal the win.

Alex Doig dropped back from the UNDER 16 BOYS port staff to fans – and to the Falcons for playing a fantastic and division two team this week and The under 16 boys faced another his experience showed, controlling challenging encounter this round, spirited game. the defensive line alongside Daniel going down 6–0 to a strong Magpies Warner, Wes Samson and Caleb Gil- side.

DIVISION THREE MEN Despite the final score, the team The SF Builders division three lies.

Michael McMurrie in goals for showed encouraging signs, with men took on Falcons in Wangaratta

ENTERTAINED: Oxley social table tennis members watch on as Debbie Brunken (left) and Peter Day go up against Greta Day and Sharene Gervasoni.

ATTACKING PLAY: Kate Reilly looks for a passing option wide. several promising passages of play and a consistent display of determination from start to finish.

Atticus Thomson was named the Wangaratta Dragons Player of the Match for his standout performance, showcasing excellent skill, composure, and creativity throughout the game.

Rory Gibb and Alistair Merritt were also key contributors, bringing their usual intensity and game awareness to support the team both in attack and defence.

In goals, Noah Fitzgerald put in a fantastic performance under pressure, successfully defending numerous shots and showing great resilience in a demanding role.

A special mention goes again to James Wheeler and Joseph Robinson, who once again stepped up from the under 14s.

Both players adapted impressively to the faster pace and physicality, displaying maturity well beyond their years.

previous victory against Wodonga, however, Scots proved to be a very difficult opponent.

The girls were on the back foot from the beginning as Scots scored two early goals and continued to attack.

Caitlyn Barnden worked tirelessly in goal to thwart many forward thrusts from Scots.

In the second quarter, Dragons fought back and when Maddie Shallue finished off some good work from Isabella Coghetto in the midfield, the margin was only one goal.

However, Scots went to another level in the second half and attacked relentlessly.

Greta Le and Claudia Kerr did their best to defend but were ultimately beaten 5-1.

The girls learnt a lot from this game and have identified a few areas that they need to work on in preparation for their game against Norths this weekend.

UNDER 14 BOYS CR United came out strongly, and outran and outplayed the Wangaratta boys for much of the match.

They set up and attacked regularly, placing our defence under a lot of pressure, and a few mistakes in defence were made resulting in easy goals.

Joseph Robertson played another strong game in goals, defending all game and saving many goals.

Alex Rymill played a great game in defence, making great passes and hit outs from defence.

James Wheeler ran all day, playing another great game.

Cooper Drage showed great resolve tackling a boy twice his size who was charging down the wing.

Leonidis Fidge and Miles Henderson contributed with some UNDER 14 GIRLS The under 14 Dragon girls went great plays also.

The final score was 6-0 to CR into their round three clash with Scots very confident after their United.

READY TO GO: Adam Bosley and Richard Morgan face Phoebe Morgan and William Bonwick.

HIGH-ENERGY MATCH: Sharene Gervasoni and Greta Day up against Peter Day and Debbie Brunken.

Winning performances across the board at Oxley social table tennis THOUGH outside temperatures were fresh and chilly, the atmosphere and energy were red hot at the Oxley Hall, when 20 players tore into the non-stop action at the Oxley social table tennis competition last Monday night.

After meeting and greeting everyone, the four tables were quickly manned and the show was on for young and old.

First up were ‘sleeveless’ Debbi Brunken and her ‘racing plated’ partner, Paul Lawrence, who took on the youthful exuberance of Harriet Day and ‘no stopping’ Adrian Brunken in a highpressure game.

Long, short, wide and nar-

row serves and ball placements ensured each pair ran a tight race to hold the upper hand.

However, all good things must come to an end, and from the jubilant bat waving, it appeared one pair won the thriller.

Getting off to a promising start, June Uebergang and Graham Stephens were in early good form when they faced up to Alison Stephens and Martin Butcher in a ‘mature age’ desperados game.

With each player throwing everything - including their bats - and literally ‘sending each other up the wall’ and almost through a window, it was not a game for the faint-

hearted.

Scores see-sawed throughout the game, and at one point, June and Graham appeared to have the win in their hands, only for Alison and Martin to serve a couple of unreturnables, taking the cake 21-19.

Returning to the scene, Phoebe Morgan was in top form when she and ‘livewire’ Greta Day threw out the challenge to ‘Dad and daughter’ Adam and Millie Bosky in a tight tussle of four different styles of action.

The tempo quickly lifted to great heights, with all players throwing caution to the wind, as they let fly with pace and determination.

With this renewed vitality, it was competition fought tooth and nail before all four players claimed victory.

A tough bout of huge proportions was on show when Peter Day teamed up with Manni Poulos to take on Gary Coad and Mick Gervasoni in a near Commonwealth Games standard game.

Long, low and blisteringpaced serving met with wellplaced returns ensured both pairs put their opponents under intense pressure from the first point.

So many ‘would’ve beens’ and ‘could’ve beens’ were nullified by amazing returns set up and dished out throughout the game.

And it would have taken a very brave person to make a prediction on which pair would trump the other.

But after a great game, Gary and Mick pinched a narrow victory.

Neil Brock was in good form when he and William Bonwick teamed up against Sharene Gervasoni and Richard Morgan in a duel of accurate placement, laced with ducking and diving for every ball that came their way.

With Neil’s swift serves and footwork, capitalised by William’s long, high and low drives, Sharene and Richard quickly worked out their line of attack.

Neither pair was prepared

to give way any chances of gaining the upper hand, and the game played out a frantic pace from go to whoa.

Scores not recorded, but both pairs gave a winning performance.

It was another enjoyable evening, where everyone played with or against everyone in the action, concluded with a cuppa and supper, and replays of games won and lost.

Adults and secondary students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley Hall every Monday at 7pm.

BYO bat, $2 entry and a plate to share.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 35

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Bats fly for Wangaratta Rangers RUB Hawks to WANGARATTA Rangers Black played Wodonga Warriors in all grades in round three of North East baseball at Targoora Park on Sunday.

In the A grade game, Ben Campbell started on the mound for Blacks, pitching to Damien French in what ended up being a pitcher/catcher game, when Warriors could only get a runner on base from being walked.

The next batter was their third out when this happened.

Although Blacks won by a big margin in the end, the most they scored in any one dig was three runs.

Blacks had six safe hits with Tanner Godenzi having two of them.

Rangers Black won 8-0.

The B grade game was a much closer game, even though Warriors had only three batters face the pitcher in their first innings, Rangers Black batted through their line-up to bring in three runs and left bases loaded when their third out was made.

Warriors started to get some safe hits in their second turn at bat and brought in three runs, then held Blacks to adding just one run in their batting dig.

The Warriors added another

two runs in their third inning, then a change of pitcher by them saw Blacks run rate come to an end.

Blacks had just five batters face the pitcher in each of their next two at bats and added no runs, while Warriors scored another three runs to steal the game 7-4.

Rangers had earlier played Warriors in the C grade game, Warriors had scored one run and their second batter came home after a fielding error by Rangers before losing their third out in the first innings.

Rangers scored one run in their first dig, neither side worried the scorers in the second dig and Warriors added two runs in their third turn at bat, both from fielding errors by Rangers.

Rangers scored two more runs in their turn at bat to trail by just one run at the start of the fourth inning.

Warriors’ first batter got on base from a safe hit, their second got on from a fielding error, then more errors

by Rangers saw them bring in four runs for the dig and lead by five runs, with Rangers yet to bat.

The Rangers had brought in

three runs when time and game was called by the umpire.

The score was reverted back to even innings, with Rangers losing 3-4.

The Black under 15 side played Warriors in their game and both teams had a good number of players.

Warriors had five batters face the pitcher to bring in one run, Rangers Black batted through seven players only losing two out and scoring four runs in the first inning.

Both teams got five runners’ home in the second dig and another one each in the last.

Jessie Hoare, Sophie Berry, Cheyse and Ashton Wayenberg each had a safe hit for Warriors while Kazu Anderson had two safe hits for Rangers to win ten runs to seven.

Both teams in the under 12s game played with only seven players and are looking for more to play the game.

Warriors batted through their line-up in their first inning to score six runs having only one out.

Rangers scored only two runs in their turn at bat, in the second dig the scores were the opposite, and the score was seven runs each at the top of the third inning.

Warriors broke this hold to bring home another five runs and held the Rangers to getting just one to run our, winning 139.

Rangers Orange played Albury Bears Gold in both the B grade and under 12 games.

Although Rangers won the game scoring at least five runs in each of the five innings, every player from both teams enjoyed the game and are hoping for more junior players to join them.

In the B grade game, Bears Gold got off to a good start when they brought in four runs in their first turn at bat, two of them unearned by Ranger’s fielding errors.

They got Rangers Orange out with only one run on the board.

Bears were hitting big to the outfield and finding the gaps to add another 11 runs in their next two innings, while Rangers found it had to get a safe hit at all, bringing in another unearned run to trail 2-15 at the top of the fourth.

Sean Wilson was best with the bat for the Bears with three safe hits and Jammy Keilor hit a home run, while Brenley Jones had two safe hits for Orange.

Bears defeated Rangers Orange 16-7.

stay in WDCA

A MOTION for Rovers United Bruck Cricket Club to defect from the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association has been voted down at the club’s recent special general meeting.

The club held the meeting on Wednesday, 14 May, to determine if they would leave the WDCA and join the neighbouring Cricket Albury Wodonga competition.

“Over the course of the past two years, Rovers United Bruck Cricket Club (RUBCC) received numerous requests from members to investigate a move to the Cricket Albury Wodonga (CAW) competition,” a club-issued statement said.

“At the conclusion of the 2024/25 cricket season, the committee met to discuss this topic and worked through proceedings to gather the necessary facts to understand what this move would mean to RUBCC members and their families.

“Through discussions with those in the club, putting this to a vote among club members received strong support from both senior and junior cricket.

“A vote was conducted at a Special General Meeting on Wednesday, 14 May, however, the votes received did not reach the required majority to pass the motion to apply to enter the CAW competition.

“Rovers United Bruck Cricket Club will at this time remain affiliated with the WDCA. “As always, we’re continually working to improve our great club and look forward to the upcoming season.”

The WDCA clubs will meet on Tuesday, 20 May for their annual delegates meeting.

Derby day for Devils

GOLDEN GLOVES: Gun goalie Angelica Pahina is back at WCFC to help lift the senior women’s side.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

IT’S one of the weekends first circled when the yearly fixture comes out, and for good reason – whenever Wangaratta City FC head up the Great Alpine Road to Savoy Park, expect fireworks.

The Devils and Myrtleford Savoy have a rich and interwoven rivalry, all of which manifests on the pitch.

Held every year during Myrtleford’s La Fiera Italian festival, the atmosphere at the ground is electric.

It will be a tough ask for Wangaratta’s senior men, who come up against arguably the best side in the competition.

Savoy won the league last year and are undefeated in the Sunday competition after nine rounds, but a recent defeat in the FA Cup final proves they aren’t unbeatable.

Senior men’s coach Vitaly Leschen, himself a former Savoy, said the clash for the La Fiera Cup was a highlight of both clubs’ seasons.

“Apart from finals and a couple of games, playing Myrt’s always the best game of the year,” he said.

“It’s always a bit of a fun one for me, good to see some

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

old friends – Dad’s a life member down there and he make sure he tells me which team he supports, so that’s always good.

“At the end of the day, I sit on the red side of the fence and want to see the boys get over the line.

“Realistically we’re probably coming in against a team that’s probably a couple stages ahead of us in terms of where they are as a group so it’s going to be a tough game.

“The boys are building, so they’ll take it to them and leave everything on the pitch.”

The showdown with Myrtleford also presents an opportunity for Wangaratta’s senior women, who will look to put up a strong contest off the back of securing the services of a returning gun keeper.

Angelica Pahina will be pulling on the gloves for the Lady Devils for the rest of the season in an effort to elevate the squad off the bottom of the ladder.

Pahina is goalkeeping royalty in the AWFA, having won the Tony Radcliffe award for best senior goalkeeper in 2016, the same year she was in the Lady Devil’s grand final winning side.

She has experience at a high level, having spent three years in Canberra NPL where she won the league and grand final three years in a row.

Women’s coach Raul Pahina, Angelica’s brother, said she was a high-calibre goalie.

“The women’s league hasn’t seen a keeper like Angelica since she was last here,” he said.

“She is brave, courageous and full of talent, she is able to pluck a ball out of a top corner, she throws her body at any opportunity she gets and has very clean hands.

“Teams will have to have some serious talent to score past us and no longer will get away with just shooting from outside the box.”

Wangaratta City FC takes on Myrtleford Savoy this Sunday at Savoy Park – the senior women take to the pitch from 11.20am while the senior men’s match begins at 3pm.

Page 36 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

ROUND

8

wangarattachronicle.com.au

MATCH PREVIEWS

Hawks and Bats unite against family violence

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

THERE comes a time where the scoreline isn’t the most important thing on gameday.

This weekend, North Wangaratta and Goorambat football netball clubs will stand united, arm in arm together, to take a stand against family violence in our community.

Organised by North Wangaratta senior football coach Steve Manning, in conjunction with the Centre Against Violence, the two clubs will send a symbolic message of solidarity and compassion.

The clubs will be raising funds for CAV and awareness on the scourge that is family violence in the community.

This is the second CAV match organised by Manning, after the Hawks came together with Milawa last season.

Manning said it was important to continue to work towards eliminating family violence in the community.

“We had our day last year with Milawa which was really good, we did that off a really short run-up, so to speak, so I’ve been really determined to make sure we follow that up this year and make sure it wasn’t just a one-off and make sure the community knows this is something we’re committed to longterm,” he said.

“After the reserves and be-

ARM IN ARM: North Wangaratta coach Steve Manning (right) and Goorambat coach Ben Wapling will present a united front alongside their two clubs in the fight agasitn family violence in our community.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling fore the senior game of football, both clubs are going to stand together, arm in arm with their opponents.

“We’ve got a number of community leaders who will be in attendance, they’ll stand with us as well.

“I think it’s just a really

good reminder that no matter what sporting club you’re from or what organisation you’re from, there’s something more that we all can be doing.

“We’re all here to win games of football and netball, basketball, soccer or

whatever, but the greater purpose is to be better people at the end of the day, and to encourage kindness and respect.

“There is something we can all do, we can come together like we are, and I encourage other clubs and

other organisations to do the same thing and at the very least have those conversations within your club and question your own values and beliefs.”

Goorambat senior coach Ben Wapling said when Manning reached out to him

about being part of the day, it was an immediate yes.

“We’re absolutely honoured to be involved this week and show our support and stand side by side with North Wangaratta,” he said.

“As leaders of clubs, it’s great that ‘Manno’ and I can lead by example and show our younger generation and all of the community that we will stand against family violence.

“It’s a major issue that’s getting worse, so hopefully we can have an impact and get people thinking and making better choices.

“I hope both clubs can keep partnering into the future for such a great cause.”

Even without the special significance of the day, the match itself would attract plenty of attention.

The two senior sides are sitting fourth and sixth on the ladder with just one win the difference, and with aspirations of playing finals, there’s a lot on the line.

“Despite what we have planned pre-game, the game itself is poised to be one of the games of the round,” Manning said.

“Both teams are very even, perhaps looking for that same position in the top six at the end of the year.

“They were too good for us last year on both occasions, but this year, with a few added to our list and competing reasonably well, we’re feeling confident we can put on a good performance, but it’s going to be tough.”

Bombers aiming for grand final repeat result

By NATHAN DE VRIES IT’S been almost 250 days since the 2024 Ovens and King A grade grand final, but the stage is set for a rematch on the court at Hansonville on Saturday.

Round eight of the O&K fixture pits last year’s runners up Greta at home to the reigning premiers of the league, Bonnie Doon.

After that world-beating team from last season suffered personnel changes through the off-season, some pundits had written the Bombers off from going back-to-back, but they have been tenacious.

The Bombers sit fifth overall with a 4-2 record and will head into the weekend favourites over the 1-5 Blues.

Bonnie Doon senior coach Michelle Tanner said a program-wide focus on structure and team play had seen the A grade squad maintain their form.

“Although they are new, we’ve still got our core players who have been there for a couple of years, so that’s always handy,” she said.

“The ones we are using, most of the

time are coming up from the B grade team.

“All of our structures are the same, it doesn’t matter what grade you’re in, so that’s good for us.

“It’s not really anything different, they all train together and know how each other plays.”

The Bombers turned heads last weekend after handing the previously-undefeated Tarrawingee their first loss 59-50, thanks to an electrifying first-quarter performance.

Bonnie Doon outscored the Bulldogs 18-9 in the opening term, a lightning salvo which Tanner said was a conscious effort.

“Last year that was definitely one of our weaknesses, we didn’t have the greatest starts, so it definitely is,” she said.

“We did the same thing against Whorouly in round one and lost because we didn’t keep up the momentum, so that’s probably more of a focus.”

While they haven’t had the greatest starts to a season, the Blues have a knack for finding avenues to victory, no matter who they take on.

“You never are going to underestimate them, especially at home, and I’m not someone who goes into it thinking it’s going to be easy, you don’t do that against any team,” Tanner said.

“Bec Watson’s come back, she’s a player we had in our 17s premiership in 2018, it’s nice for her to be back but she’s played with these girls before so it’s not unfamiliar.

“Chloe Cash, she’s one of our girls who has stepped up from our 17s she’s stepped into the spot that Mia [Tanner] used to play so there’s a lot of weight on her shoulders, but she’s been holding herself really well.

“We’ve just got to play well, and hopefully we do.”

In other matches, Tarrawingee will look to return to their best when they host a fired-up Whorouly squad.

It’s a top three showdown, with the Lions looking for their first win over the Bulldogs since round 20 in 2022.

Elsewhere, the Bats head to North Wangaratta, King Valley hosts Benalla All Blacks, and Moyhu are at home to Bright.

READY FOR REMATCH: Anneliese Byrnes and the Bombers will look to replicate their success from the 2024 grand final when they face up against Greta once again.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 37

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Brothers taste success in Ada River Rally

LOCAL brothers Matt and Luke Whitten successfully completed round two of the Victorian Rally Championship last weekend.

Driving a Ford Fiesta, the thirdgeneration rally competitors were part of a 71-car field in the Ada River Rally, based out of Noojee, east of Melbourne.

After eight tough stages

and over 140 kilometres of competitive driving, the brothers finished second in the 13001600cc engine class, and 24th outright against a high-quality field.

Other than a minor overheating issue with the engine, the Fiesta ran perfectly for the entire rally.

This was only Matt’s third rally

as a driver, having previously spent most of his rallying calling the corners for other drivers.

Buoyed by his success, the 23-year-old will now head to Bega, on the NSW coast, for the third round of the Victorian Rally Championship, to be held on the June long weekend.

Between now and then, the car

will be re-repaired in preparation for the two-day event.

Both Matt and Luke are members of the local North Eastern Car Club.

RALLY RACING: Brother Matt and Luke Whitten in action at the Victorian Rally Championship last weekend.

MATCH PREVIEWS

ROUND

6

Youth driving Magpies growth

By SHANE DOUTHIE

WANGARATTA Magpies, fresh from the bye, will be keen to secure the four points this Saturday in A grade netball, but have a massive challenge in front of them.

They face the undefeated North Albury, who have swept all before them so far this season.

The good news for the Magpies is they have a virtual full list to pick from with no injuries and talented young star Paige Zamperoni returning after being out for round four.

A grade skipper Hannah Grady said the team will be focusing on starting the game well and putting together a consistent four quarters.

“It’s not about key individual players, to get the four points we will need everyone to play their role with the team,” Grady said.

“That includes the young players who joined A grade this year who have really stepped into their roles and shown why they were given the opportunity.”

Teammate Leah Jenvey said the wave of young players coming through the ranks was proof positive the netball program at the Magpies was moving in the right direction.

“We have had heaps of young players taking a step up this year, either sitting on the bench and learning or taking the court in A grade, along with stepping up in other grades,” Jenvey said.

“It’s exciting to see and shows off the home grown talent.

“Many are generational players

A NEW LEVEL: Leah Jenvey gets airborne. coming through or have been with the club since development level and it’s something that we are very proud of.”

The Magpies will also be holding their always popular Ladies Day on Saturday commencing with courtside canapés from 1.30pm to watch the A grade clash before heading upstairs to be entertained by Lennon Paul.

There will be a grazing table featuring hot and cold, sweet and savory treats with plenty of great food and drinks at bar prices.

Jenvey said local businesses have generously donated a host of goods and services for a silent auction and raffle with money raised this year going to Centre Against Violence (CAV).

“Given the recent media exposure highlighting the increasing number of people experiencing violence, particularly women and children,

PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

we decided to support CAV this year as they support local families experiencing these challenges and help to educate the young people of our community,” she said.

“Often within the club, people are experiencing different life challenges and our aim is to show support as a club through the Ladies Day by raising money for a range of organisations over the years.

“It’s run by a wonderful team of netball players each year.

“We have a great focus on the health and wellbeing of our club members and this is a small part of our commitment to a healthy club on and off the court.”

Wangaratta Rovers also have a tough challenge ahead taking on Yarrawonga at the JC Lowe Oval courts but will be keen to push the perennial finalists all the way.

PRESSURE PLAYER: Katie Dean remains a pillar of strength in the Magpies defence.

Grand final rematch and top-tier clash on the cards for O&M senior footy ■ From back page

BACK IN ACTION: Hunter Gottschling and the Magpies resume their campaign at home to the Hoppers this weekend. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“We’re really excited about what this week brings, these are the games you want to play.”

It’s not only a massive weekend for the Magpies, as Wangaratta Rovers head up to Yarrawonga’s JC Lowe Oval for a rematch of the 2024 senior grand final against the Pigeons.

While they haven’t had the greatest start to the season, sitting seventh with a 2-3 record, the Pigeons TOUGH TASK: The Rovers take on don’t lose at home often. the Pigeons on the road in round six.

Rovers football operations manPHOTO: Marc Bongers ager Barry Sullivan said past re-

Best of luck all WRFNC teams playing Away at Yarrawonga Pigeons this weekend.

Join us on Socials

Go Rovers!!!

sults wouldn’t enter into it when the Pigeons come to play.

“At home, they rarely get beaten, so it’s going to still be a very big challenge for us,” he said.

“I think our midfield has been in good form, and unfortunately for their sake, Yarrawonga has been a bit depleted in the midfield, but they will field a strong team and everybody will be going at it tooth and nail.

“It [the weekend off] was a bit of a chance to regroup, and everyone’s freshened up a little bit and we’ve got a couple of guys who are

going to be available for selection after a bit of injury.

“One thing for sure, the season’s very tight this year, the top three teams are all sitting 4-1.

“We just need to keep winning to make sure we hold a good position come the end of the season.”

Wangaratta Magpies take on North Albury at Norm Minns Oval, while Rovers take on Yarrawonga at JC Lowe Oval.

Football action commences from 10am with the thirds, with reserves play from 12pm and seniors from 2pm.

vs North Albury (Home)

Wangaratta FNC Ladies Day Raising money for Centre Against Violence

Saturday 17th May

When: Time: 1.30pm courtside bubbles for A Grade Price: $50 a ticket includes a drink on arrival and nibbles Music by Lennon Paul until 9pm Raffle prizes throughout the day with great donations form local business. wangmagpiesfnc

Wangaratta Magpies Football & Netball Club

Footy2025 20

BUSINESS

Page 38 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

AFL

TIPPING

Round 10 THURSDAY MAY 15 Gold Coast vs. Hawthorn (TIO Stadium)

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

TIPSTER

Sydney vs. Carlton (S.C.G.)

SATURDAY MAY 17 Collingwood vs. Adelaide (M.C.G.)

GWS Giants vs. Fremantle (ENGIE Stadium)

SUNDAY MAY 18 Richmond vs. Nth Melbourne (M.C.G.)

Brisbane Lions vs. Melbourne (The Gabba)

TIPSTER

ROUND 09

Brisbane Lions .......................30 Collingwood ............................28 Hawthorn .................................28 Gold Coast ...............................24 Adelaide ....................................24 W Bulldogs ...............................20 Geelong .....................................20 GWS Giants .............................20 Essendon..................................20 Carlton....................................... 16 Fremantle ................................ 16 St Kilda ...................................... 16 Port Adelaide .......................... 16 Sydney ....................................... 12 Melbourne ............................... 12 Richmond................................. 12 Nth Melbourne..........................6 West Coast .................................0

TOTAL: 56

TIPSTER

www.websterselectricalvic.com.au/electrical

Last week: 6

Hawthorn Sydney Adelaide Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Scott Moss-Holland

TIPSTER

Mario Antonello

JCS INDUSTRIES PTY LTD

AFONSO BUILDING SOLUTIONS

(03) 5722 1569 104 Murdoch Rd

03 5721 5456 49 Rowan Street

03 5721 5330 74 Murphy St

Last week: 6

www.jcsindustries.com.au

TOTAL: 55

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

TIPSTER

www.afonso.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 54

Gold Coast Carlton Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Bailey Zimmermann

TIPSTER

Riley Grimshaw

FLYNN’S INLAND SURF CO

WANGARATTA CHRONICLE

WEST SIDE TAVERN

(03) 5722 1533 41 Murphy St

03 5723 0109 37 Rowan St

03 5721 3123 63-67 Appin St

www.flynnsinlandsurf.com.au

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 54

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs Richmond Brisbane Lions St Kilda

TIPSTER

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 54

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs Richmond Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Matthew Elliott

TIPSTER

Last week: 5

www.thewestside.com.au

TOTAL: 54

Hawthorn Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Ringo

TIPSTER

Chandan Kulkarni

AFL NORTH EAST BORDER

WANGARATTA CLUB

AFL NORTH EAST BORDER

03 5722 1993 Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta

5721 3711 4 Victoria Pde Laneway Bistro

03 57221992 Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta

www.aflneb.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 53

Hawthorn Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

www.wangarattaclub.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 52

Hawthorn Carlton Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs Richmond Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Hayden Murray

TIPSTER

MC GREGOR MACHINERY

www.mcgregor-machinery.com.au

TOTAL: 51

www.aflneb.com.au

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 51

Hawthorn Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Mystery Tipper

TIPSTER

Beth Watson PINSENT HOTEL

MYSTERY TIPPER

03 5722 9933 285 Tone Rd,

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 56

OAK FM 101.3

Mark Flynn

TIPSTER

www.helenhaines.org

Last week: 6 Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs Richmond Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Gold Coast Carlton Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

(Optus Stadium)

After

03 5722 1492 15 Norton St

TOTAL: 55

West Coast vs. St Kilda

LADDER

03 5721 7077 117 Murphy St

www.oakfm.com.au

Last week: 6

Max Webster

03 5722 1996 27 Baker Street

Neil Barassi

W Bulldogs vs. Essendon

TIPSTER

WEBSTERS ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING

Gold Coast Carlton Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

(Adelaide Oval)

Helen Haines MP HELEN HAINES MP

TOTAL: 57

TIPSTER

TIPSTER

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

KILARA GROUP

www.kilara.com.au

Last week: 6

Port Adelaide vs. Geelong

(Marvel Stadium)

Hawthorn Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Chris Doyle

FRIDAY MAY 16

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

03 5721 2183 20-22 Reid St

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 50

Last week: 7

www.pinsenthotel.com.au

TOTAL: 49

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Footy2025 20

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 39

BUSINESS

AFL

TIPPING Round Round Round 10 Round 10

10

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

TIPSTER

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs Richmond Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Luke Stanton

TIPSTER

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Brisbane Lions St Kilda

Kay Reid

TIPSTER

Elise Stewart

OLD GARAGE BARBER

TRAVEL & CRUISE NORTH EAST

JOHNSONSMME

0488 394 835 58 Norton St @oldgarage.barber

5722 9600 30 Ovens St

03 5721 6233 7 Chisholm St PO Box 182

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 48

Hawthorn Carlton Adelaide Fremantle Geelong Essendon North Melbourne Melbourne St Kilda

Last week: 6

www.travelcruise.com.au

TOTAL: 47

Gold Coast Sydney Collingwood Greater Western Sydney Geelong Western Bulldogs North Melbourne Melbourne St Kilda

TIPSTER

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

Shayne Gannon

TIPSTER

johnsonsmme.com.au

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 46

Hawthorn Carlton Adelaide Fremantle Geelong Essendon North Melbourne Melbourne St Kilda

Nathan de Vries

TIPSTER

Lillian & Nino

TOWN ‘N’ COUNTRY TAVERN

WANGARATTA CHRONICLE

WANGARATTA MAZDA

03 5722 1788 174-182 Greta Rd

03 5723 0116 37 Rowan St

03 5721 5677 10?14 Templeton St LMCT 121188

www.townandcountrytavern.com

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 45

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Last week: 4

TOTAL: 44

www.wangarattamazda.com.au

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 41

10 Round 10 LEADERBOARD

Chris Doyle ........................57 Helen Haines MP............ 56 Max Webster ................... 56 Neil Barassi ...................... 55 Scott Moss-Holland ..... 55 Mario Antonello ............. 54 Mark Flynn ....................... 54 Bailey Zimmermann ..... 54 Riley Grimshaw .............. 54 Matthew Elliott .............. 53 Ringo................................... 52 Chandan Kulkarni ........... 51 Hayden Murray ............... 51 Mystery Tipper ............... 50 Beth Watson ................... 49 Luke Stanton ................... 48 Kay Reid ..............................47 Elise Stewart ................... 46 Shayne Gannon .............. 45 Nathan de Vries ............. 44 Lillian & Nino ....................41

THE

FOOTY PULSE THE WEEKLY FOOTY WRAP UP

AFL NEB Volunteer Recognition Program

HIRING GAME DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS!

This week, as part of the AFL North East Border Volunteer Recognition Program in partnership with Apco Service Stations, we celebrated Stacey Nolan from Goorambat Football Netball Club. For more than 20 years, Stacey has been the heart of the Bats— leading football operations for the past decade and serving as the club’s go-to person for all things footy and netball. From managing game day logistics to supporting players and volunteers, Stacey’s dedication is the backbone of the club.

AFL Victoria is on the lookout for a Game Development Officer to help grow the game at the grassroots level across Wangaratta and Surrounds

Know a volunteer, coach, or club umpire making a difference at your club or Auskick Centre? Nominate them by scanning the QR code below. Weekly winners receive a $50 Apco voucher as a token of appreciation for their contribution to community footy.

2025 AFL NEB Volunteer Recognition Program

☑ Inspire the next generation of players ☑ Work in schools, clubs & the local community ☑ Casual role with flexible hours ☑ Be part of a supportive and fun team environment ☑ Make footy more accessible and inclusive for all Whether you’re a coach, mentor, or simply love the game – this is your chance to get involved in something bigger. Applications close 19th May 2025. Contact kris.mannix@afl.com.au to apply or for more information.

Applications Close: 19 May 2025

BIG FREEZE

COMMUNITY ROUND The 2025 Big Freeze Community Round will take place from May 26 to June 1, and we want your club to get involved! This is your chance to rally your team and community in the fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND) by hosting your very own Big Freeze event.

Whether it’s a themed match, a dunking challenge, or a fundraising BBQ—every initiative helps. Make sure to kit out your teams in official Big Freeze 11 socks and play your part in supporting vital MND research and care.

For more information or to register your event, contact: bigfreezecommunity@fightmnd.org.au or call 0417 136 328.

Page 40 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 16, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Hockey Dragons on fire

ªxHRKILCy872010z

Page 34

WE STAND TOGETHER

Centre Against Violence CEO Jamie Chubb (centre) and North Wangaratta and Goorambat members (from left) David Killen, Kate Nolan, Steve Manning, Ben Wapling, Tyena Massey-Chase, and Travers Nolan will stand united against family violence ahead of the senior football match on Saturday.

■

Story page 36 PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Blockbusters set

A TOP three showdown and a grand final rematch greet O&M footy fans this weekend, as Wangaratta’s sides return from a weekend off.

Since their round five derby fixture was moved up to open the season, Magpies and Rovers were afforded a Saturday to themselves, but this weekend has them returning to the fray for some of the best match-ups of the entire season.

At the Norm Minns Oval, Wangaratta Magpies welcome

Grand final rematch and top-tier clash on the cards for O&M senior footy

mustered strong results over Wodonga, Albury, Lavington and Raiders. ndevries@ nemedia.com.au Wangaratta coach Jason Heatley said it was shaping North Albury, who have up to be an incredible match positioned themselves as one against a quality team. of the legitimate premiership “North Albury are in really contenders in 2025. good form, only had the one hiccup - they’ll be certainly The Hoppers sit second overall with only a single loss to eyeing this one off as we their name, a 26-point defeat to are,” he said.

“They’ve got multiple the Rovers back in round one. avenues to goal, they’re Since then, they’ve

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

exciting in the way they chain the ball together and they can be very, very dangerous if you give them those opportunities.

“Clearly the game will be won or lost around the footy.

“I think both sides’ midfields are fairly strong, the clearance-stoppage work will be very important, I think we’ve both got avenues to goal which are dangerous.

“Time with the footy, I

think if someone can control the game, they’ll probably win the game.”

Heatly said the week off came at the right time for his squad, who had played five matches of high-intensity footy to start their season.

“Playing the game extra, we were probably at that stage and Rovers were probably the same where we certainly welcomed the break,” he said.

HELP US GIVE THEM A WARM WELCOME YOUR DONATION WILL PROVIDE LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT FOR NEWBORNS. Northeast Health Wangaratta is fundraising to support our newborns and ensure they receive the warmest welcome into the world.

Funds will go to purchase two new neonatal resuscitation cots. These warmers provide critical care for newborns, ensuring they get the best start in life. Your donation will make a real difference!

FIND OUT MORE AND DONATE AT NHW.ORG.AU/APPEAL supported by:

“It’s just a chance to freshen up, it’s the way the fixture falls so you take advantage of it.

“We let the guys make decisions around their intentions for the weekend, and we knew that weekend in particular was coming from a long way out so guys had planned some family time, guys had planned to get away, and it was Mother's Day. ■ Continued page 37

HELP US REACH OUR $70,000 TARGET