THE poor treatment of community members objecting to a proposed renewable energy facility currently seeking government approval to proceed in the King Valley has been raised with a letter by Wangaratta city Mayor Irene Grant with the Victorian Premier. Cr Grant, who has served multiple terms as a councillor, administrator and mayor, also highlighted a dra VicGrid
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
document currently out for consultation that does not include the North East as a renewable energy zone.
Her letter to Premier Jacinta Allan, Treasurer and Northern Victoria MP Jaclyn Symes,
Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny, and Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio expressed her “extreme concern” over the impact the solar facility application has had on the community.
“The community has now been subjected to almost three years of uncertainty and emotional anguish which only heightened at a meeting in Bobinawarrah on 5 June,” she wrote.
“In the guise of community consultation, the meeting attendees were both insulted and patronised by the application presenters (Urbis) with information that was inappropriately researched, incorrect, fabricated in parts and of course did not address the concerns of the audience – it was simply a ‘box-ticking exercise’ labelled as consultation.
■ Continued page 2
PLEASE HEAR US: Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant (main photo) has written to Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes (le ) and Premier Jacinta Allan (right), as well as Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny (below le ) and Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio (below right).
We want to opt out of emergency services tax collection: council
WANGARATTA council has told the Victorian government it doesn’t want to be burdened with the job of collecting the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) tax as it fears it will be le out of pocket.
While acknowledging the need to fund emergency services, council argues the current model unfairly impacts rural ratepayers, and also puts councils in a di cult nancial and administrative bind.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant said they
support emergency services wholeheartedly.
“But this tax, in its current form, is inequitable and unsustainable,” Cr Grant said.
“It shi s the burden onto those who already give the most - our volunteers, our farmers, and our rural communities”.
The ESVF will replace the Fire Services Property Levy from 1 July, and appear on rates notices and is to be collected by councils. However, if landholders opt
If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Chronicle itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930. Find
to pay council rates but not the tax, the State Revenue O ce will collect it proportionally from the rates paid.
This exposes councils tonancial risk and could force them to chase unpaid money from ratepayers.
“Council is not a tax collector for the state,” Cr Grant said.
“We are advocating for the State Revenue O ce to take over administration and collection of the ESVF to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability”.
Widespread community opposition has seen thousands of CFA volunteers and farmers rally at Parliament House, with some CFA volunteers in the rural city hanging their yellow overalls on fences in protest.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria CEO Adam Barnett said the ESVF “isn’t a tax on the rich, it’s a tax on everyday Victorians”.
“And it’s being levied on those who already volunteer their time and risk their lives,” he said.
The council has joined forces
with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), the Regional Cities group, and local MPs to push for urgent reform.
A petition signed by the council was recently tabled in parliament by Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy.
During council’s May meeting a notice of motion was passed expressing strong opposition to the ESVF due to a lack of consultation.
It cited the collection methodology, and the negative community impact.
The council is also worried about broader economic owon e ects.
It is arguing that the cost will be passed onto renters, through local businesses, impacting all residents.
The council is urging the government to reconsider the ESVF’s structure and impact on rural and regional communities, seeking it transfer collection to the State Revenue O ce, and to guarantee transparent allocation of funds to frontline services.
IMPORTANT FACTOR: The North East has been excluded from the Dra Renewable Energy Zones in a dra document released by VicGrid. Mayor Irene Grant has called on the state government to give this factor serious weight in its pending decision on the Meadow Creek Solar Farm application.
Mayor writes to Premier, Treasurer, Ministers: Solar proposal is not good for our community
■ from page 1
“It was painful to watch farming families, many of whom have successfully farmed land for over 100 years, being told that their land was only ‘marginal’ or that sheep could graze in high rainfall pastures, agriculture did not matter –never mind the cutesy comments about this project being ‘good for the local community’ despite more than 420 submissions to the contrary and of course the Rural City of Wangaratta rejection on strong planning grounds.”
Cr Grant explained to the premier that council considered and rejected this application on strong planning grounds and made this clear in its submission to the application process in October 2024.
She told the premier that grounds included the impact on a signi cant water catchment, the loss of prime agricultural land, the environmental impacts on fauna and ora, the unsuitability of unsealed local roads, as well as considerable negative social impacts on the local community.
“The Victorian government has invested millions of dollars in the King Valley to support agriculture, viticulture and of
Meadow Creek Solar Farm still being assessed by department
THE proposed Meadow Creek Solar Farm, 27km south-east of Wangaratta, and 28km east of Glenrowan will generate up to 332MW of renewable energy - enough to power 110,000 homes and help Victoria to meet its 95 per cent renewable energy target by 2030.
The proposal also includes a 250MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to ensure reliable power during peak demand when people need it most.
The project is being assessed under the Department of Transport and Planning’s Development Facilitation Program, prioritising projects with significant economic value.
After its assessment, the planning permit will be considered by the Victorian Minister for Planning as the responsible minister.
course tourism...to allow an industrial development of more than 550 hectares to go ahead would damage this beautiful part of the state forever,” she wrote.
“We also note the work undertaken on the government’s behalf by VicGrid does not identify this area, or region as being suitable for any of the proposed Renewable Energy Zones (REZ’s), for future renewables projects.”
The dra plan sets out seven dra proposed renewable energy zones: South West, Central Highlands, Grampians Wimmera, Wimmera Southern Mallee, North West, Central North
The project has also been referred to the Commonwealth Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act).
Proponents of the project say, if approved, it will provide economic benefit to the region, with local employment opportunities during construction and ongoing operations, as well as engaging local businesses wherever possible.
They say it will help reduce energy costs and keeping energy affordable, contribute to a more reliable power supply, enable agricultural activities to continue alongside the solar farm, offer biodiversity protection by enhancing wildlife corridors with new wildlife-friendly fencing, and providing significant landscaping and buffers to protect waterways.
and Gippsland, but the North East is excluded.
These are the areas identi ed as most suitable to host new renewable energy generation, such as wind turbines and solar farms, and battery storage.
“We assume that had this application been muted, or made a er the nalisation of this important state led work, that the application would have been discouraged, and had a harder road in front of it to be approved?” Cr Grant asked the premier.
“We argue that given this work is well advanced it should be given serious weight in the cur-
rent determination process by government.”
Council has already invited Minister Kilkenny to visit the site which she declined, and Mayor Grant sent a fresh invite to the premier in her letter.
“Please consider the King Valley as a signi cant water catchment, land that produces food, land with strong environmental values and an important part of the social and economic fabric of Victoria,” Cr Grant wrote.
“This is not a plea of ‘not in my backyard’ but rather a statement about a special part of this country.”
“We’re not a rubbish tip”: Op shop volunteers’ plea
BY GRACE FREDSBERG gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au
YOU might have noticed bags of donations spilled across the front of various op shops around Wangaratta – and op shop volunteers are paying the price both physically and nancially.
Helen James, a volunteer from Uniting Church Op Shop, said she’s seen some awful scenes a er donations have been made at their storefront.
“One weekend, there was stu right down the street; so obviously people had either pulled it out of the bin or gone through it out the front… which was very disheartening and took a long time for (volunteers) to clean it up,” she said.
According to Helen and fellow volunteer Ian York, sorting through donations can take up to eight hours out of their day.
“We send up to a tonne and a half of clothing and shoes and handbags that we can’t handle here to Melbourne every week,” Ian said.
“We’ve had a 50 per cent price cut in what we get pulled out because of the world situation… so the amount that we get for that is just a pittance to the labour that goes into sorting it.”
Despite the toll this kind of labour takes on volunteers, the op shop is committed to sustainable practices where appropriate.
“We’re very conscious of land ll and we take every opportunity… we recycle everything we can,” Ian said.
“Donations go o to other organisations further a eld that might need it, tiny baby clothes go to neonatal care, some go to Zac’s Place,” Helen added.
Ian said every fortnight, a trailer full of unsalvageable goods are taken to the tip by volunteers, deducting about $300 per load from their council grant.
“The bottom line is we’re
not a rubbish tip,” he said.
“We know that we’re an opportunity shop and therefore we don’t exist without donations.
“But there’s donations of materials suitable for an op shop and there’s donations of materials that should have gone straight to the tip.”
While they appreciate the sentiment attached with giving back to the community, the volunteers are asking that community members pay attention to what they
do and don’t accept at their op shop, as well as how donations should be made.
These included tying your donations into a tight, neat bag, rather than loosely scattered throughout the bin which can decrease its value; all donations should be clean; making donations during opening hours if possible; clothing is folded and the right side out.
The Uniting Church Op Shop also does not accept electrical goods or furniture
due to space concerns.
The amount of work put in by the management committee and volunteers is indelible, as is the support from the community.
“It just couldn’t operate without that commitment,” Ian said.
“And every one of our volunteers is dedicated to doing the best they can in their area.
“We appreciate and are extremely grateful for all the good quality donations.”
Concern for motorcyclist missing after serious crash with vehicle
WANGARATTA police are appealing for information after a motorcycle rider left the scene of a serious collision in South Wangaratta around 6.30pm on Friday night.
Officers are concerned for the rider’s welfare as it is believed they could be seriously injured after being involved in a collision with a car on the Hume Freeway, near the southbound on ramp.
The rider, who was thrown from their bike as a result of the collision, could not be found when police arrived.
The driver of the car remained on scene and has spoken with police however only a bike and debris of the other party remained.
A significant ground search uncovered a pair of gloves and helmet in a paddock between the Hume Freeway and Glenrowan Road, however there were no other signs of the rider. Patrols of the area and a line search by police with assistance of Country Fire Authority personnel, a door knock, checks with local hospitals and a search of housing yards nearby also proved fruitless. The Air Wing also attended and checked the surrounding area without success.
Enquiries about the bike, which didn’t have registration plates, didn’t identify the rider. Police are appealing for the rider to come forward and to anyone with information to make contact with police in Wangaratta (5723 0888) or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Help at hand with transition from parking meters to app paid parking in CBD
By JORDAN DUURSMA
WANGARATTA’S transition away from parking meters to app-only paid parking in the city’s CBD saw council and EasyPark representatives at the community kiosk on Reid Street last Thursday and Friday from 10am to 2pm to assist members of the public. And they’ll be back again on the same days and times this week and next week, o er-
ing help to download the app, create an account, and learn how to start and stop a parking session to ensure you’re only charged for the time parked.
Council has also created a webpage with detailed instructions on using the EasyPark app, together with a map of where free car parking is available in the CBD.
As previously reported in the Wangaratta Chronicle, all 72 parking meters in the CBD are
being removed and motorists have to use the EasyPark App for all paid parking spaces, as part of a move that is expected to save council $221,000 over eight years.
Council director of sustainability and culture, Stephen Swart, said while many residents and visitors have adapted well to the new system, council acknowledged that some have experienced challenges.
“To support those who may
be less comfortable with digital technology, we’ve put in place dedicated assistance to support the use of the app, as well as providing an alternative payment method through the CBD Parking Voucher (monthly or annually),” he said.
“Our team is committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for everyone.
“Wangaratta continues to o er a range of free parking
timed and all-day options.
“We encourage residents and visitors to explore these alternatives by visiting the ‘Free Parking’ page on our website, where a detailed map is available.”
At present, paid parking operates Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm in the CBD and parking is free on weekends.
All CBD parking must be paid for via the EasyPark app.
However, for those unable
to access the app, monthly or yearly CBD parking vouchers, linked to a single vehicle registration, are available from council’s planning and building counter. These vouchers apply to timed CBD parking areas, but not the Co-store carpark. While EasyPark can be used in the Co-Store carpark, the vouchers cannot, as it’s operated independently from council-managed parking.
COMBINED EFFORT: Volunteers from Uniting Church Op Shop, including (from le ) Wendy Groves, Roslyn Bevan, Ian York and Helen James, are asking the community to show consideration when making donations. PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg
Councils’ rate cap easing financial burden on homeowners, says ESC
MOST Victorian councils remain in good nancial health and ratepayers continue to bene t from council rate caps, according to the Essential Services Commission’s newly released 2025 Local Government Outcomes Report.
Rate capping limits the amount Victorian councils can increase their average rates by each year, with the maximum rise for 2025-26 set at three per cent.
The Minister for Local Government sets the rate cap,
which applies to all councils. The commission reports on the outcomes of the rate capping system every two years to identify any emerging trends across the local government sector and any other impacts of the caps on the sector.
Over the past four years, the Minister for Local Government set the cap between 1.5 per cent and 3.5 per cent – well below the six per cent average rate increases seen before the introduction of rate capping.
Trees to help boost farm productivity
A FREE forum in Wangaratta next week will seek to help farmers and landowners with factual information regarding the opportunities for trees on privately owned land, based on federally funded research outcomes.
The event will feature a range of topics presented by leading specialists and presents an opportunity to explore practical strategies for integrating trees into farming practices and boost both productivity and environmental sustainability.
The event runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 27 June.
For details go the North East Catchment Management Authority website.
All 79 local councils kept their rates within these rate caps during the period covered by the report, however two higher rate cap applications from Indigo Shire (7.54 per cent) and Hepburn Shire (10 per cent) councils were approved for the 2025-26nancial year - Wangaratta has a three per cent rise.
The report shows an increase in the proportion of overdue rates as a percentage of total rates and charges – from 5.7 per cent in 2018-19 to 10.7 per cent in 2024-25.
Focus on farm biosecurity
THE Ovens Landcare Network has another Sunday session organised for this month, focused on farm biosecurity.
The free event will be held at the Milawa Hall from 10am on Sunday, 29 June, with guest speaker Greg Ferrier from Agriculture Victoria.
To register go to https://events.humanitix.com/ farm-biosecurity-event-milawa
Farmers gathered in Oxley
AROUND 20 local landholders attended a recent free Seasonal Check-In at Oxley, focused on practical support for managing livestock, farm businesses and personal wellbeing during dry times.
The event covered livestock health and nutrition, farm water quality and dam management, personal and business support, and local resilience projects.
North East CMA, Ovens Landcare Network, Agriculture Victoria and AgBiz Assist all collaborated to deliver the event.
It also provides information about councils’ service, infrastructure and nancial outcomes.
Overall, the sector is reporting a tighter nancial position than it was during the early years of rate capping, however, low levels of debt and reasonable cash reserves suggest most councils remain nancially sound.
Spending on waste management is the fastest growing service area, re ecting changes in the waste market, including the rollout of a
four-bin system and increases in the waste levy.
User fees and statutory nes have increased, following a sharp decline in 2019-20 and 2020-21 during the coronavirus pandemic.
However, they have not yet returned to 2018-19 levels.
ESC chairperson and commissioner Gerard Brody said rate capping is keeping rate increases lower than they have been in the past, which would be a relief for homeowners grappling other costof-living pressures.
“The increase in the proportion of overdue rates highlights the importance of councils developing e ective nancial hardship policies,” he said.
“I’d encourage people struggling to pay their rates to reach out to their council to see what support is available.
“It’s encouraging to see councils delivering important services while keeping within the rate cap and maintaining their nancial health.”
Running for fun, and remote school
Monday, 15 June, 2015
By ANITA McPHERSON
STUDENTS at Galen Catholic College are getting active when it comes to fundraising, with the entire year nine level taking part in the Adidas School Fun Run on 24 June.
The event - which involves students seeking sponsorship from family and friends to take part in a four kilometre run by the riverside - is designed to be a healthy take on more traditional fundraising activities like chocolate drives.
Physical education teacher
Tom Anson said the students will be raising money for Santa Teresa, a remote Aboriginal community about an hour out of Alice Springs where both students and teachers at the school have taken part in immersion experiences.
“We’ll find out what they need and send them some money or gift vouchers so they can use it the way they
would like to, whether its resources for the school or materials for the art centre there,” he said.
“For the students it’s about participation and a chance for them to get involved and to raise some money in a different kind of way.”
Student Jack Gerrish said he was looking forward to the run and was pleased to know the money raised was going to a worthy cause.
“It’s helping other kids who don’t have as many opportunities as us to get an education, and that’s a good thing,” he said.
FIT AND FUNDRAISING: More than 200 year nine students including Maddy O’Keefe and Jack Gerrish will be getting active while raising money for a good cause, as part of the Adidas School Fun Run on 24 June.
PHOTO: Luke Plummer
New support roles to boost services at CAV
WANGARATTA Centre Against Violence (CAV) has welcomed new funding that will allow four new support workers to join its team, strengthening the services to help people impacted by family violence and sexual assault.
The funding comes through the National Partnership on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses - 500 Worker Initiative; an important collaboration between the federal and state governments designed to grow the specialist workforce and ease pressure on frontline services.
CAV CEO Jaime Chubb said the funding couldn’t have come at a better time.
“Our team works incredibly hard to support people in crisis, and this extra help means we can do more, reach more people, and give our practitioners the backup they need,” she said.
“I’m so proud of the care, skill, and quiet determination our staff bring every day.
“They work incredibly hard, and knowing we can help them better
means everything.”
Ms Chubb said this funding acknowledges the value of their work and assists specialist staff to focus on providing trauma-informed, personcentred care, while support staff take care of the important everyday tasks that keep everything
running smoothly.
“We wish we didn’t need to grow, but we do,” she said.
“The demand is real, and we are incredibly grateful to Family Safety Victoria for hearing our call for help and responding with genuine support.”
The four new roles - two
Monday-Friday
Welcome rainfall over the King’s Birthday long weekend
THE general wet conditions during the King’s Birthday long weekend brought much needed rainfall over much of Victoria.
The heaviest rains were in the Western District of Victoria where Terang, Cobden, Camperdown, Mortlake and Colac all recorded over 75mms - above the June average.
The Otway Ranges at Mt Sabine recorded 180mms in six days, which was the wettest for June for three years.
North East Victorian towns recorded varying totals from 7-9 June, with Wangaratta 35.6mms, Cheshunt 57.8mm, Whitlands 74.8mms, Carboor 59.4mms, Greta South 42.2mms, Yarrawonga 15.6mms, Rutherglen 31.6mms, Lake Buffalo 63.2mms, Mt Buffalo 45.4mms, Bright 44.8mms and Albury 28.6mms.
During Tuesday, 10 June conditions cleared over most of Victoria except for further showers in Gippsland and snow showers at some alpine resorts.
On Tuesday afternoon an isolated heavy thunderstorm with hail brought 25mms to Charlton in less than two hours.
WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
A long line of cumulus clouds with cirriform tops could be seen at a long distance away in the mid afternoon.
Maximum temperatures at Shepparton also reached 15 degrees with no fog during the day.
Conditions became overcast overnight and on 11 June maximum temperatures were all well below the June normal in Northern Victoria, as the cloud deck stayed all day.
A spell of cold days and cold nights with fogs and frosts look set to continue for the next week with no significant rainfall. ton in less than two hours.
This suddenly followed the driest January to May period with only 37mms at Charlton since 1912.
in family violence services and two in sexual assault support - will focus on practical, behind-thescenes tasks that make a big difference.
To find out more about the roles or to apply, head to CAV’s website. www. centreagainstviolence.org. au/work-with-us/
This suddenly followed the driest January to May period with only 37mms at Charlton since 1912.
In North Victoria maximum temperatures at Wangaratta, Rutherglen and Albury were all around eight degrees with fog all day, but at Benalla the maximum temperature reached 15.5 degrees with clear skies all day.
In North Victoria maximum temperatures at Wangaratta, Rutherglen and Albury were all around eight degrees with fog all day, but at Benalla the maximum temperature reached 15.5 degrees with clear skies all day.
A long line of cumulus clouds with cirriform tops could be seen at a long distance away in the mid afternoon.
A spell of cold days and cold nights with fogs and frosts look set to continue for the next week with no significant rainfall.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: CAV team members (from left) Rebecca Watson, Louise Saric, Bonn Gillies, Darcy Fyffe, Ann Gardner, Rebecca Jones and Kasi Burge are thankful for the additional support the new roles will help facilitate.
PHOTO: Kelly Timms
NOTE:
Appreciate the efforts of our volunteers
OP shops are a concept our community are well aware of, and “thrifting” is becoming increasingly popular among younger people.
And while we might not approach donating to the op shop with ill intentions, this widely regarded good deed could unintentionally be perpetuating the cycle of material waste.
Op shop dumping refers to the illegal disposal of unwanted and oftentimes unusable items at donation sites, generally outside of opening hours.
This practice has been an ongoing issue for years and has imposed a huge financial and physical burden on volunteers across multiple districts.
Clothing that is dirty, ridden with holes and tears, stained by paint or grease, or anything that would reasonably be considered unclean or unsanitary should not be left for these valued members of the community to deal with.
There have been reports of op shops receiving household rubbish - including used nappies - making it clearer than ever that this also poses a health and safety risk to workers.
Another issue becoming increasingly apparent is people coming to the storefront outside of opening hours and scavenging through donated items.
When volunteers return next, they are faced with a mess of goods dispersed everywhere but the bins, taking hours out of their day to clean up.
Not only that, much of what has been exposed to weather or passersby loses its value and is unlikely to be resold in store, only further contributing to landfill.
With this in mind, we must take greater appreciation for the work of our volunteers and in doing so, help to prevent this sort of behaviour from happening; because its volunteers who are taking the damage.
The Quiz No.139
1. By what name is the Australian Crane best known?
2. Which female tennis player did Bobby Riggs defeat on 13 May 1973?
3. The Gaza Strip lies on the coast of which sea?
4. Which board game contains ‘valuable paintings’ and ‘forgeries’?
5. Who is the lead singer of The Pretenders?
6. An ornithopter is a machine that is used for what sort of travel?
7. The Khmer Empire was based in which modern-day country?
8. Who wrote the 2001 novel, Dreamcatcher?
9. Which Central American country comes first on an alphabetical list?
10. The Vardon Trophy is awarded in which sport?
11. In March 2017, who became the Leader of the Opposition in Western Australia?
12. What type of leaf is on the Canadian flag?
13. The sitcom, Family Ties, initially aired during which decade?
14. Which mountain range forms a natural border between France and Spain?
15. Parmesan cheese is made from the milk of which animal?
16. What were the first names of famous composers, Rodgers and Hammerstein?
17. The martial art called Pankration originated in which country?
18. What is the singular form of the word, graffiti?
19. In 1979, Scott Abbott and Chris Haney created which popular board game?
20. Which country is sometimes referred to as The Land of the Long White Cloud?
FACEBOOK users this week commented on John and Jennefer Houghton being included on this year’s King’s Birthday honours list.
Lorraine Perry: Congratulations Jennefer and John
Jenny Bell: Congratulations
Di Crockett: Congratulations Jennifer & John a great achievement.
Evan Gale: Very well
deserved Jennefer and John!
Julie Ballard: Congratulations
FACEBOOK users also commented on the AEIC encouraging voices to be heard as discussions on the Meadow Creek Solar Farm continue.
Leslie Matthews: Nimby’s
Eric Douthie: Leslie Matthews get them to put it in your back yard. No animals allowed near them or cannot
sell them if they do. Large fire risk and full of products no one wants in their water.
Julie Braden: They will listen and nod........but not much else - a bit like politicians. Change my mind!
Cassie Hurley: “ purely an industrial facility on agricultural land” as Councilor Irene Grant stated.
Leslie Matthews: Cassie Hurley so are open cut coal mines Linda Simpson: Sadly
Government has no diplomacy with Hamas
THIS year it is 110 years ago that the Armenian genocide took place in which hundreds of thousands were killed, or death-marched into desert country, in what was then the Ottoman Empire.
This happened while WWI had just begun.
The rest of the world didn’t hear much about it and TV wasn’t there to show the horror to us.
Now we have the Palestinian genocide happening (check out Amnesty International’s report “You feel like you are subhuman. Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza”) with worldwide coverage by reporters and terrible scenes on our TV screens.
Yet protests by the international community have been mute, though they are becoming louder.
While I agree with some of John Moore’s letter (Wangaratta Chronicle, 4 June), our government has no diplomatic contact with Hamas through which it could appeal.
the voices are being ignored! The so-called “Experts” couldn’t/wouldn’t answer ANY questions. They couldn’t even answer why they’d falsely called a dirt road a major highway! Just box ticking to say they “consulted”!
MCSF have ZERO Social Licence to Operate within the Communities of Oxley, Bobinawarrah, Meadow Creek and Docker - ALL of which will be adversely impacted by this ludicrous proposal!
walk and cycle trail in
Helen Haines (MHR, Indi) therefore focused on what our government can do in relation to Israel.
It was good news to hear of our government’s sanctions against two hardliners in the Israeli government about what Israel has been doing in the occupied West Bank.
However, I believe that our government hasn’t been strong enough in its condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza, actions that are part of Israel’s genocidal intent towards the Palestinian people.
By taking their land in the West Bank and now their land in Gaza, killing hundreds and thousands of people in the process, there will be no land le for a Palestinian State.
John Van Riet, Wangaratta South
Our mayor is a leader with dignity, integrity
WE would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant for her unwavering support in objecting to the proposed Meadow Creek Solar Farm development in the King Valley.
Mayor Grant has demonstrated leadership - with dignity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the people and community she represents.
Her willingness to stand alongside her community, listen to our concerns, and advocate on our behalf has been both inspiring and deeply appreciated.
In a time when strong, principled leadership matters most, Mayor Grant has shown what it
means to lead with both strength and compassion.
Her stance reinforces the importance of preserving the unique character of our region within the Rural City of Wangaratta.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank former Mayor Dean Rees for his leadership and contributions during his term, as well as current Deputy Mayor Harvey Benton for his ongoing support.
Their dedication to representing the interests of our region and community has helped strengthen our voice and we are truly grateful for their continued support and advocacy.
Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group
Emergency services betrayed by budget cuts
REGIONAL communities will bear the brunt of the Victorian government’s decision to redistribute emergency services funding under the new $1.55 billion Emergency Services Levy.
According to published budget gures, CFA’s funding will drop by $42 million compared to the 2023–24 budget.
VicSES is set to lose $8.4 million, and Fire Rescue Victoria faces a massive $115 million cut.
These aren’t just numbers on a page - they represent fewer trucks, delayed station upgrades, and reduced support for the dedicated
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volunteers and personnel who put their lives on the line to protect us.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria have already raised the alarm, warning that planning has been thrown into chaos, with decisions on new equipment and infrastructure now in limbo.
It’s deeply concerning that the government is denying the reality shown in its own documents.
Communities across the Ovens Valley and beyond deserve transparency and trust, not spin and confusion.
The Nationals will continue to ght for genuine investment in emergency services and demand that the Allan Labor Government come clean on its funding priorities.
Tim McCurdy, Ovens Valley MP
WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
WALK THIS WAY: Construction of a shared
Whitfield continues, with works now extending to the east side of the Wangaratta-Whitfield Road where the path will connect to Gentle Annie Lane. The Rural City of Wangaratta says weather permitting, the 2.5m wide trail should be completed in early July.
PHOTO: Anita McPherson
Local author shares secret to feeling good in your own skin
LOCAL author Chi Chi Wang invites the community to come together for an open and compassionate conversation about body image, mental wellbeing and the pressures people face in a visually driven culture, when she holds a free author talk at the Wangaratta Library on Thursday, 10 July.
The Cheshunt resident has released a new book called ‘From Ugly to Beautiful Without Surgery’, which offers a timely and thoughtful response to the widespread and often silent struggle with body image affecting people of all ages.
She says this is reflected in a national survey by the Butterfly Foundation, which revealed 73 per cent of Australians wished they could change the way they look.
In From Ugly to Beautiful Without Surgery, Chi Chi blends personal
experience with gentle reflection to speak directly to the emotional toll unrealistic beauty standards can take, while encouraging readers to rebuild self-worth and confidence without altering their appearance.
She explores how appearancebased judgement can limit choices, influence identity and impact relationships.
“Research shows that both young people and adults often avoid social events, professional opportunities, or public speaking - not because they lack ability - but because they feel ashamed of how they look,” she said.
“While bullying in schools and online is often associated with body image concerns, many adults also carry these struggles into later life.
“Some avoid being in photos, decline dating, or step back from leadership roles due to lingering
self-doubt, and these unspoken beliefs can quietly shape a person’s path for years.”
The author shares her own experiences of growing up feeling inadequate because of her looks.
After moving to Australia alone at the age of 19, Chi Chi recognised that concerns about appearance are a global issue affecting people everywhere.
In response, she launched a growing movement to help individuals cultivate self-acceptance and regain confidence without changing their appearance.
She began a long journey that combined personal development, inner reflection, and the study of psychological human behaviour.
Over the years, this path helped her challenge the beauty beliefs she had once accepted as truth
and led her to a new understanding of self-worth.
Chi Chi says in a world increasingly shaped by social media, where filtered and curated images dominate, many people feel pressure to meet unattainable ideals.
Her message is that true confidence begins not with changing the body but with changing the way we view ourselves.
“You do not need to change your face to change your life,”
Chi Chi says.
“You need to change the way you see yourself.”
Chi Chi Wang will speak at Wangaratta Library on Thursday, 10 July from 6.30pm to 8pm.
It is free to attend by seats are limited and bookings can be made by visiting www.ccwithin. com or call 0421 492 026.
Joyous celebration of blues music
COMING to Wangaratta for the first time with a huge line-up of some of the best musicians in the scene is the Blues Guitar Roadshow.
The ensemble is set to perform at the Wanga ratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 20 September, featuring Lloyd Spiegel, Geoff Achison, Wilbur Wilde, The McNaMarr Project (Andrea Marr and John McNamara), Corey Legge, Dale Alison and Shane Gilbert.â€
John McNamara said the audience can expect an unforgettable night of feel-good music, performed by some of the country’s best musicians.
“It plays out like an old school variety show and al ways ends with everybody up on their feet,” he said.
“The vibe is electric with these shows and the musicians are having just as much fun as the audience.
“I believe that’s the reason the show has been selling out venues and getting standing ovations.
“There is a real connection and joy shared both on and off the stage.”
A guitar played during the show and signed by ensemble members will be given away after the interval, adding to the unique performance.
“The audience get to experience one-off magical moments on stage as the acts jam and collaborate,” John said.
“We also like to bring up some surprise guests and make some opportunities for young players when in each town.
“Basically, we will be throwing the kitchen sink in, we want to give people the best possible value
for money show possible and in doing so continue to make the Blues Guitar Roadshow the hottest ticket around.”
For more information or to secure your seat, visit https://www.wpacc. com.au/Whats-On/BluesGuitar-Roadshow.
ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE: Don’t miss out on the hottest ticket in the Australian blues scene when the Blues Guitar Roadshow comes to Wangaratta in September.
PHOTO: Debkloedenphotography
Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025
THE Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 exhibition is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
The 2025 finalists, selected from over 430 entries Australia-wide, are contemporary artists who not only demonstrate a mastery of technique in a broad textile medium, but innovation and excellence alongside a rigorous and robust conceptual practice.
See the work of the 10 finalists including Helvi Apted, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Hannah Cooper, Charlotte Haywood, Cara Johnson, Charles Levi, Emily Simek, Jacqueline Stojanovic, Sera Waters, and $40,000 award winner Jemima Wyman, on display until 17 August.
Two vibrant exhibitions land in the Benalla Art Gallery
TWO new exhibitions “Lemon Myrtle” by George Aristovoulou and “Mosaiced Memories” by Lisa Brand are now open at the Benalla Art Gallery.
The exhibitions run until 31 August and 30 June respectively.
Aristovoulou, an emerging artist, employs pencil, ink, and gouache on paper in an abstract style.
He meticulously divides the canvas into broad linear strips, weaving in figurative and botanical elements and his blended colours create a dreamlike quality.
Aristovoulou has worked at Arts
Project Australia since 2011 and he has participated in numerous group exhibitions.
He debuted his first solo virtual exhibition, “Fervent Response,” in 2020 and his works grace private collections across Australia.
“Lemon Myrtle” is presented in partnership with Arts Project Australia.
It is a leading international visual arts organisation supporting neurodivergent artists and artists with intellectual disability.
Arts Project empowers artists through studio programs, exhibi-
tions and professional development. In “Mosaiced Memories,” Lisa Brand reflects on a personal journey through fragments of glass, life and self.
Before mosaics, Brand’s diverse career included restaurant and food bus ownership, administration and naturopathic studies. She is also a mother of three and a grandmother. Brand’s creative journey began over 20 years ago, exploring crafts from dried flower arrangements to handmade frames.
Mosaics, discovered during a time of personal upheaval, evolved into a sanctuary and a lifeline.
Over the past five years, Brand has shared her work publicly. All works in the gallery shop are available for purchase.
For more information about the gallery and upcoming exhibitions, contact Benalla Art Gallery on the same number and email or visit benallaartgallery.com.au.
The gallery, located in the Botanical Gardens on Bridge Street, Benalla, is open from 10am to 4.30pm (March to August).
Aristovoulou’s work (above) and Lisa Brand’s work (right) is on show.
SCREAMINGLY FUNNY: present David Walliams’ best-seller Ratburger
(pictured) brings the hilarious story of Zoe and
com.au, with three shows scheduled on the day.
PHOTO: Peter Wallis
ACROSS
4 Name a high ranking army officer (7)
8 What is someone who is guilty of treason (7)
9 To carry out, is to do what (7)
10 What might we call a hermit (7)
11 What are delicate serous membranes (7)
12 Name an edifice dedicated to the service or worship of a deity (6)
14 What are machines for making cylindrical holes (6)
18 Name the point, that determines who wins a match (7)
21 To be ungainly, is to be what (7)
22 Which language is spoken in Lhasa (7)
23 Which racehorse won the 1890 Melbourne Cup (7)
24 To supervise, is to do what (7) DOWN
1 Who receives publicity as a potential main female actor (7)
2 Name a timepiece (5)
3 Name a very thin filled pastry (7)
4 Which term implies that something is eerie (6)
6 To be neither positive nor negative, is to be what (7)
7 Alan Jay Lerner’s collaborator, Frederick … (5)
13 To be gruesome or horrible, is to be what (7)
15 Which garden features rocks and plants (7)
16 What are bicycle seats called (7)
E-QUATIONS 7
17 To swagger, is to do what (6)
19 What are appointments (5)
20 Name a Hindu religious ascetic (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 HISTOLOGY
(a) The science concerned with organic tissues
(b) Historical authenticity
(c) Acting
2 INTESTATE
(a) Closely personal
5 Who is a lord, entitled to allegiance and service (5)
Letters have a number value
18 The aforesaid is known as what (5)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
(b) Not tolerating contrary opinions (c) Dying without having made a will
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Air Traffic Control (3)
Arthropod claw (5)
Chinese meal: yum _ _ _ (3)
Contraction: that is (5)
Number (3)
Of Attica (5)
Oily liquid fatty acid (5)
Secondary (abb) (3)
Snow lodges (7)
Suffer oppressive heat (7
Specialty varieties help King Valley weather wine trends
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
Growing recognition of King Valley’s specialty wine varieties, and the continuing popularity of prosecco, are helping local producers deal with a global decline in wine consumption, and the trend of younger people turning away from more traditional red wine styles.
The latest global consumption data from IWSR reveals ongoing change in the world of wine, with wine consumption volumes declining by three per cent in 2024, continuing a longer-term trend.
An ongoing oversupply of red wine in Australia, exacerbated by China’s imposition of high tariffs on Australian wine in 2020 (lifted in 2024), has led to large-scale growers, particularly in the Riverina, having to make some tough decisions.
Last week De Bortoli Wines revealed it was removing vineyards at Bilbul in the Riverina, along with shiraz vineyards in Rutherglen, responding to a downturn in demand for the traditional variety.
Meanwhile its sales of rose and King Valley prosecco were on the rise.
While the changing trends, particularly from a more healthconscious under-30 demographic, are being felt in the King Valley, producers there are managing to maintain and develop an existing customer base while also finding ways to broaden their appeal.
Pizzini Wines’ Louise Way said while their own demographic of consumer has always skewed a little older, there is a consistent, younger contingent also present, who want to try something new.
“We have noticed the younger wine drinkers we see through cellar door are really interested and knowledgeable about wines – and that our more unusual Italian varieties, which are typically a little lighter, more savoury and very food-friendly, are of particular interest,” she said
“We also notice that at the offsite events we attend, such as The Big Design Market, Little Food Market and North East Wine and Food Festival, there is a good proportion of younger people interested in trying our wines.
“Again, I think the opportunity to try new varieties - or being introduced to different ways to enjoy the wines, such as in a brachetto cocktail or limoncello spritz - help to generate interest too.”
La Cantina King Valley’s Rueben Corsini agreed visitors to their cellar door were tending to move away from more traditional red varieties and towards Italian varietals including sangiovese, nebbiolo and barbera, but that applied to visitors across the board rather than in any particular age demographic.
He said the rising cost of living was still having an impact on the sale of luxury or discretionary products like wine, and that was generally the case across the sector.
BROAD
RANGE AND INNOVATION REMAINS KEY, TOGETHER WITH PROTECTING PROSECCO NAME
about wine and interested in
“The red wine market at the moment is a challenging one, but there’s no doubt there is a better understanding and attraction towards Italian varietals,” he said.
“Offering preservative-free and vegan-friendly wines is a really nice niche for us - being veganfriendly in particular is growing in significance and it’s helpful - but it doesn’t make us immune from the overall trends.”
Wines of the King Valley president Dean CleaveSmith said demand for the region’s broad portfolio of red and white table wines, including medium bodied red varieties like sangiovese, nebbiolo, pinot noir and gamay, continues to rise.
“They are wines the red wine audience (and a younger audience) are looking for,” he said.
“We employ a huge number of people in the King Valley and across the wine region more broadly, and the minister needs to keep that in mind when making decisions around matters such as naming rights, including prosecco.”
- WINES OF THE KING VALLEY PRESIDENT DEAN CLEAVE-SMITH
now (without being aged).
“It has been an industry reckoning, but one that for the most part, the King Valley has already gone through, because our transition from traditional varieties to Italian styles has already occurred.”
Mr Cleave-Smith said while the soaring growth in demand for prosecco continues and is a real success story for the region, they were conscious of not being pigeon-holed as only having one wine variety.
He said their broader range of specialty wine styles which appealed to a more contemporary wine palate, held them in good stead for the next decade.
“They are more approachable, they are generally lower in alcohol, and more suitable for drinking
Some King Valley producers are also exploring and investing in no and low alcohol wine products, as well as alternative packaging such as single serve cans, bottles and pouches, in response to growing demand from a more health-conscious wine consumer.
official grape crush figures from the 2025 vintage for the King Valley are yet to be released by Wine Australia, figures from 2024 provide a valuable insight into what is being produced in the valley. The 2024 crush was 16,404 tonnes (13,282 tonnes white varieties/3122 tonnes red varieties) which was eight per cent up on 2023; and the total value was $21,653,009 (white $17,043,707/red $4,609,302) which was 20 per cent up on 2023.
Mr Cleave-Smith said the organisation is currently turning its attention to the speed at which Australia and the European Union (EU) are wanting to resume negotiations on a free trade agreement.
He said there had been media comment the EU was intending to visit Australia in late August/early September to make an announcement, which indicated talks will move “very, very quickly”.
“We know there were three key areas left unresolved last time, and prosecco was one of them,” he said.
“We remain very committed to our previous position that prosecco is the name of a grape variety, and it was imported to Australia as such, so we have a right to call it prosecco.”
Mr Cleave-Smith said while he’s confident Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell understood the economic impact
of any concession to naming rights on prosecco, he feared with global trade uncertainty and Australia’s need to find alternative markets for products like beef, may alter the dynamic of the negotiations.
“We will keep reminding all stakeholders that the growth trajectory for prosecco remains double digit, and there are no signs of that ceasing,” he said.
“The wine industry is a very complex, sophisticated, vertically integrated and regionally-oriented business, so any decisions around this has regional implications for jobs.
“We employ a huge number of people in the King Valley and across the wine region more broadly, and the minister needs to keep that in mind when making decisions around matters such as naming rights, including prosecco.
“We have the right to call it prosecco and we’re not wavering on that.”
CHANGING TASTES: King Valley grape growers including Pizzini Wines are finding their younger demographic of wine consumers are knowledgeable
trying more unusual Italian varieties.
PHOTO: Cara Dosser
TO the lady who came to Australia, aged 6, from Derbyshire U.K. Please phone 5722 3758.
CLEAN CUT: Here is an opportunity to expand your lawn mowing business or if you’re just starting out, Clean Cut has a number of accounts with an excellent wellestablished clientele who have been with Clean Cut for a long time. Please allow us to discuss this opportunity with you by contacting Chris at 0427 523 293.
CARPENTER / BUILDER, taking jobs and quotes, no job too small or too big, versatile tradesman happy to meet on site and liaise with customers. Ph 0498 168 787.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
MARK ’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any rubbish and furniture removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
TOYOTA Corolla Ultima model 2003, auto, remote locking, front airbags, 268,000km, new brake pads, one owner, RWC, (1AV4AP), $3800, located Porepunkah. Ph 0428 575 225.
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MITSUBISHI Tray Top Ute, 2WD 410,00km, motor rebuilt, 5 month rego (CU57VL), $2800. Ph 0439 766 211.
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DESIGNER van, built 2013, double axle, new tyres and brakes, toilet and shower combined, aircon, single beds, double water tanks, 90L fridge, excellent condition, $44,000 ONO. Ph 0460 582 811.
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10FT 6 Boat, on a new trailer, 9hp motor, $900. Ph 0439 766 211.
BOX trailer, well built, $350. Ph 0439 766 211.
Medical Receptionist – Part Time
Dr Peter Hebbard is looking for a motivated, mature person to be one of the faces of his practice in Wangaratta.
The position is Part-Time, initially 3 days per week with some working from home. Remuneration includes above award wages and bonuses for the right person. Please contact (03) 7023 7800 for more information.
Passed away at Rangeview Private Nursing Home, Wangaratta on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Aged 86 years.
Dearly loved husband of Dot. Loved father of Mark, Kerri and Wayne. Adored Pa of all his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Peacefully sleeping.
MCDOUGALL, Gordon Neville.
Gordon passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Wodonga Hospital.
Aged 86 years.
He was the dearly loved husband of Pat and much-loved father and father-in-law of Andrew and Vicki, Kerryn and Andrew, Shirlene and Allan, and Catherine and Ben. Poppy to Maverick, Kianna, Brook, Kristy, Samantha and Nikki. Great Poppy to Reign, Archer, Aston, and Tommy.
In God’s Garden.
The funeral service for the late Mr Gordon McDougall will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Ray Snell Centre, Westmont Aged Care, Baranduda Boulevard, Baranduda at 11am.
The committal service at the Old Myrtleford Pioneer Cemetery, Mummery Road, Myrtleford will follow at 2pm. For livestreaming go to tobinbrothers.com.au
DARCY
The service to celebrate the life of Mr John Alfred Darcy will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 2pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. John’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
DIRECTORS
A funeral experience... not just a funeral service
Mason Park Funerals
P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au 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 owers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.
The bereaved family will be noti ed of your memorial gi according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation.
To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact -
Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5310 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.
DARCY, John Alfred.
WOODS
POINT’S
TONY RUGYS WARNS WILD DOGS AND
POLICIES ARE PUTTING THE TOWN AT RISK
I’ve been out stalking a deer along some old sneaking track and wild dogs have been
walking in
parallel with me through the bush, just snarling and stalking me as I stalk the deer.
- TONY RUGYS
Howls in the hills
By MIKE SMITH
WITH the recent closure of the Morning Star, a mining operation located on the spur at the junction between Morning Star Creek and the Goulburn River, the faint echo of Woods Point’s gold rush heyday has grown quieter.
The mine was one of the last remaining links to a time when the remote High Country settlement rivalled Mans eld in population.
Now, just the brick hearths and chimneys remain, scattered among thick bushland.
But Woods Point is not a ghost town.
Locals say to abandon it to unmanaged wilderness would be a disservice to the dozens of permanent residents who still call it home - and to the part-timers who visit for shing, hunting, hiking or the solitude at the end of a long drive on a notoriously troublesome road.
Among those residents is Tony Rugys, a former maintenance tter at the Morning Star and a captain of the Woods Point CFA, who has lived in the area for more than 50 years.
He believes the ongoing drought has temporarily slowed a bigger threat - one that howls in the hills.
“The Goulburn River, just six kilometres from its source, runs across the Mans eld-Woods Point Road from my house,” said Mr Rugys.
“And it runs at a trickle.
“I believe that is why the deer haven’t come down from the hills this year.
“And that means that the wild dogs have largely stayed up on the tops with them.
“But before the drought, the situation with wild dogs was as bad as it has been in my ve decades in Woods Point.”
Mr Rugys has been living “behind enemy lines” in the tangled bushland of the Great Dividing Range, dealing with wild dogs since the 1980s.
“When I rst moved to Woods Point in the eighties, there were a lot of gold dredgers around and a lot of them were scared of walking two or three kilometres through the bush to their dredge with the dogs following them,” he said.
“So I used to keep the wild dog population down for them with a trap at the tip.
“I used to get six or seven a year, it might not sound like a lot but if those six dogs per year mate and rear litters, there’s exponentially more dogs out here.
“DEECA used to encourage us to get rid of them, not anymore.
“I can still walk for kilometres through the bush, even at my age, even with a smashed up hip with titanium parts.
“But if I go for a walk or a ride up the back, nowadays, I carry a 12 inch knife on my hip.
“Their instinct for the hunt, for the kill is so strong that they can sense weakness in people.
“I’m older now and when you’re older, they know you’ve got a weakness.
“If they’re hungry and they’re in a pack, they will pull you down.”
According to Mr Rugys, dingoes are not the problem, and there’s a distinction between them and the wild dogs.
“The dingoes don’t worry me, I’ve never seen them do anything up here so I leave them alone and
they leave me alone,” he said.
“But the wild dogs, when you get two to three of them screaming in the dark, I’ll tell you what, it sends a chill down your spine.
“There’s wild dogs just running up and down Mans eld-Woods Point road down here, they’ve had dogs on the street in Woods Point, I’ve seen them.
“I’ve been out stalking a deer along some old sneaking track and wild dogs have been walking in parallel with me through the bush, just snarling and stalking me as I stalk the deer.
“I’ve had dogs here at my house numerous times when I’ve come back from shopping and stu like that, they’ve crossed the river and walked into the driveway thinking the place is empty.
“They tried to attack the neighbour’s dog not too long ago.”
For Mr Rugys, the sounds are o en worse than the sightings.
“They howl every night of the full moon, they come screaming past my place chasing deer,” he said.
“It’s a hideous noise.
“The campers howl back at them when they’re drunk, it antagonises them, and it invites them to come down onto the campsite.
“You should not invite them down into the campsite.
“I have woken up to dogs’ voices out in front of my bedroom window at three in the morning.
“You hear a possum screaming and then you go out in the morning and there’s just torn up fur everywhere.
“They’ll eat anything living in the bush, they’ll eat until they wipe an area out and then they’ll move on.
“I just saw the rst wallaby
I’ve seen in nearly a year and I haven’t seen a wombat for eighteen months to two years.
“But the deer numbers remain strong, so the dog numbers remain strong.”
Fuel reduction burns are having an e ect, but they come with challenges.
“They’ve done a lot of burns up here and that’s going to create a drama for the dogs.
“The DEECA blokes who did the burn o s in German Spur last year, they told me that while they were burning o , all they could hear was the dog’s howling in the gullies,” he said.
“The dogs weren’t real happy.
“A wild dog has to be able to hide in the bush so it can stalk from a distance and sort of slowly creep through, but once an area is burned it’s totally exposed and it can’t hunt, so it can’t survive there.”
Mr Rugys is not alone in believing that sensible land management - with hunters, trappers, and locals playing a role - is key to controlling invasive species.
His concerns echo recent statements from Mans eld Shire Mayor Steve Rabie, who has also called for more practical and community-informed approaches to bush management.
But Mr Rugys fears that further restrictions, particularly the proposed expansion of National Parks, will shut locals out.
“I reckon, with the election out of the way, they’ll tell us the National Parks are going ahead,” he said.
“This town doesn’t survive if it’s surrounded by National Park.
MOUNTAIN TOWN: Once a booming gold settlement, Woods Point is now home to a small but resilient community facing the twin pressures of invasive species and land management changes as debate continues over National Park expansion.
“You won’t be allowed to sh.
“You won’t be allowed to hunt.
“You won’t be allowed to gather rewood.
“And if you can’t do these things, all these places will close and everyone associated with them will go away.
“And no one will be managing invasive species.
“And that’s when we really lose control of the dogs.”
He is also critical of aerial deer culling, calling it expensive and ine ective compared to experienced ground-based control.
“What you’ve got now is a lot of no man’s land lled with deer and dogs,” he said.
“Send in a thousand helicopters and they might shoot three or four if they’re lucky because they won’t even see them.
“Hunters and trappers can catch six deer a day and they cost an awful lot less than helicopters.
“We can take control of the situation but they have to let us trap and shoot in the areas where it’s needed, only in the areas where it’s needed.”
Mr Rugys said the Aboriginal people of the High Country used to call the area around Woods Point ‘Devils’ Country’ on account of the snowy weather that made it di cult to inhabit.
While the snow has been absent in recent years, it appears that some devils remain.
STEADY HAND: Woods Point’s Tony Rugys has lived behind “enemy lines” in the High Country bush for more than 50 years. He says wild dogs are bolder than ever, and fears restrictions on hunting and bush access will leave locals exposed.
GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: W. Christie 5, N. Cooper 2, D. Wilson 1, N. Scholte 1, B. Filo 1, C. Thompson 1. WODONGA: T. O’Sullivan 3, A. Jorgensen 3, N. Spiteri 1, R. Bourke 1, K. Winter-Irving 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: L. O’Brien, J. Smith, W. Christie, N. Scholte, E. Dayman, X. Allison. WODONGA: T. O’Sullivan, M. Wilson, A. Jorgensen, J. Yelland, N. Bradshaw, T. Johnson.
NORTH ALBURY 2.5 4.5 7.7
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: J. Murphy 4, J. Minogue 3, J. Penny 1, L. Taylor 1, C. Winter 1. MYRTLEFORD: N. Turner 2, J. Muraca 2, S. Curtis 1, H. McKerral 1, R. Calvene 1, T. Cossor 1, J. Hazeldine 1, B. Ricardi 1. BEST: North Albury: J. Minogue, J. Hayes, J. Mooney, J. Weidemann, C. McIntosh, J. Murphy. MYRTLEFORD: S. Curtis, A. Wickes, J. East, D. Harrington, M. Dalbosco, R. Calvene.
NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS
A GRADE
North Albury 50 def Myrtleford 45
Wang Rovers 47 def by Wodonga 52 Wodonga Raiders 42 def Yarrawonga 41 Albury 41 def by Wangaratta 45
Lavington 31 def by Corowa Rutherglen 37
B GRADE: North Albury 36 def Myrtleford 27 Wang Rovers 52 def Wodonga 51 Wodonga Raiders 40 def Yarrawonga 39 Albury 18 def by Wangaratta 59
Lavington 38 def by Corowa Rutherglen 50
C GRADE: North Albury 42 def Myrtleford 40 Wang Rovers 51 def Wodonga 34 Wodonga Raiders 49 def Yarrawonga 37 Albury 26 def by Wangaratta 81
GOALS: ALBURY: E. Wallgate 1, R. Brown 1. WANGARATTA: H. Barry
3, R. Schultz 2, W. Prebble 1, C. Petersen 1, C. Kerwin 1, C. Donald 1, E. Clayton 1.
BEST: ALBURY: N. Prentice, B. Moore, N. Morrison, R. O’Sullivan, I. Conlan, R. Tinworth. WANGARATTA N. Kjar, L. Griffiths, E. Lodge, A. Jayet, H. Barry, O. Boyle.
Wang Rovers 9.9 (63) def Wodonga 5.3 (33)
GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Breheny 4, J. Correll 3, H. Mullane
1, C. Maher 1. WODONGA: B. Parkin 2, C. Brookes 1, F. Kosmina 1, M. Collins 1.
BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Lugg, H. Dodgshun, C. Boman, E. Saunders, C. Miller, R. Harvey. WODONGA: K. Venturoni, J. Hymus, C. Collins, M. Prenter, W. McCoy, B. Nicklin.
North Albury 10.13 (73) def Myrtleford 4.8 (32)
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: T. Wiesner-Milham 3, H. Westmoreland 2, Z. Graham 2, C. Spencer 1, N. Pigdon 1, W. Harrington 1. MYRTLEFORD: H. Stripeikis 2, L. McManus 1, T. Cooper 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Z. Graham, T. Mcintosh, H. Westmoreland, O. Ackerly, N. Pigdon, J. Eckhardt. MYRTLEFORD: J. Novak, H. Stripeikis, Z. Carroll, C. Piazza, L. McManus, R. Skahill.
GOALS: LAVINGTON: N. Newton 2, T. Oosterhoff 2, A. Swinnerton 1, H. Barber 1, N. Sedgwick 1, J. Glanvill 1, J. Costello 1, S. Driscoll 1, A. Cook 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: K. Bradtke 3, L. McCarthy 3, D. Clancy 1, F. Parker 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Costello, J. Spina, C. Annett, E. Perryman, J. Hart, N. Newton. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: R. Irvin, C. Schutt, L. Mccarthy, J. Longmire, B. Morton, D. Melksham.
WOD. RAIDERS
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: E. Boxall 2, M. Way 1, C. Howells 1, H. O’Neill 1. YARRAWONGA: B. Coghill 2, J. Hargreaves 2, M. McCabe 2, N. Fothergill 2, M. Casey 1, C. Wilson 1. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: A. Scammell, N. Bracher, E. Boxall, C. St John, W. Fordham, N. Bowey. YARRAWONGA: C. Wilson, M. Gibbons, N. Pendergast, M. Findlay, N. Fothergill, B. Coghill.
ALBURY 3.2 5.6
GOALS: ALBURY: M. Walker 5, J. Pitt 3, K. Heiner-Hennessy 2, H. Cameron 1, M. Duncan 1, G. Flanagan 1, F. Carroll 1, M. Bender 1, T. Quade 1. WANGARATTA: X. Laverty 3, J. Craven 1, J. Clarke 1, A. Tilley 1, C. Knowles 1, W. Tua 1, B. Marjanovic 1, W. O’keefe 1.
BEST: ALBURY: M. Walker, R. Garthwaite, I. Muller, F. Carroll, K. Heiner-Hennessy, J. Pitt. WANGARATTA: W. Tua, J. Clarke, T. Norton, A. Federico, C. Knowles.
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
Goormabat 39 def Bright 25; King Valley 25 def by North Wangaratta 34; Moyhu 40 drew Greta 40; Benalla All Blacks 49 drew Bonnie Doon 49; Milawa 59 def Tarrawingee 42.
B GRADE:
Goormabat 38 def Bright 36; King Valley 33 def by North Wangaratta 45; Moyhu 49 def Greta 48; Benalla All Blacks 24 def by Bonnie Doon 82; Milawa 45 def Tarrawingee 29.
B RESERVE:
Goormabat 22 def by Bright 41; King Valley 20 def by North Wangaratta 41; Moyhu 45 def Greta 33; Benalla All Blacks 30 def by Bonnie Doon 50; Milawa 33 def by Tarrawingee 42.
C GRADE:
Goormabat 18 def by Bright 62; King Valley 57 def North Wangaratta 17; Moyhu 27 def by Greta 55; Benalla All Blacks 14 def by Bonnie Doon 92; Milawa 32 def Tarrawingee 31. 15 & UNDER:
Goormabat 4 def by Bright 92; King Valley 58 def North Wangaratta 16; Moyhu 20 def by Greta 35; Benalla All Blacks 28 def by Bonnie Doon 60; Milawa 48 def Tarrawingee 42.
No
scores available at time of print
ROUND 12
SAT, JUNE 21
GRETA vs GOORAMBAT
MOYHU vs BONNIE DOON
WHOROULY vs MILAWA
TARRAWINGEE vs NTH WANGARATTA
BRIGHT vs KING VALLEY
BENALLA ALL BLACKS - BYE
GOALS: GOORAMBAT: D. Haebich 2, D. Beavis 1, B. Stepien 1, Z. Amarant 1, A. Blackburn 1, C. Hunter 1. BRIGHT: C. Banks 6, D. Chellew 2, P. Bren 2, H. Jamieson 1, J. Love 1, R. Bacon 1, L. Quirk 1, C. Thomason 1, J. Crawley 1, W. Wales 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: J. Dunne, S. Gladstone, D. Beavis, C. Anker, Z. Amarant, J. House. BRIGHT: C. Banks, J. Love, M. Elliott, J. Gray, H. Jamieson, P. Bren.
KING VALLEY - - - 9.9.63 NTH WANGARATTA - - - 15.13.103
GOALS: KING VALLEY & NORTH WANGARATTA: no goal scorers submitted. BEST: KING VALLEY & NORTH WANGARATTA: no best players submitted.
MOYHU 3.1 4.2 5.6 8.9.57 GRETA 4.4 11.5 14.10 17.13.115
GOALS: MOYHU: D. West 2, J. Hansted 2, A. Thrum 1, M. Thrum 1, P. McNamara 1, B. Zimmermann 1. GRETA: J. McClounan 4, F. Judd 3, O. Ramage 3, T. Baker 2, J. Kelly 1, L. Kennett 1, B. Whinray 1, B. Newbold 1, B. Pearson 1.
BEST: MOYHU: P. McNamara, N. Gamble, H. Bell, N. Stewart, M. Thrum, J. Hansted. GRETA: J. McClounan, L. Kennett, J. Kelly, T. Baker, T. Rosser, T. Arrowsmith.
BENALLA 1.2 2.5 2.8 4.8.32 BONNIE
GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: K. Glass 1, J. Walker 1, C. Orchard 1, K. Linke 1. BONNIE
DOON: J. Octigan 10, J. Sanford 4, J. Law 3, S. Campitelli 1, D. Carswell 1, Z. Tanner 1, K. Longstaff 1, E. Ivill 1, G. Murray 1, C. Houghton 1, C. Azzopardi 1.
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: J. Walker, K. Linke, d. nero, D. Button, R. Nedeljkovic, B. Marlborough. BONNIE DOON: J. Octigan, J. Sanford, J. Law, P. Cairns, J. Fox, P. Revell.
GOALS: MILAWA: J. Radovanovic
Wang Rovers �������� 21�16 (142) Wodonga 5 5 (35) BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: H. McMonigle, s. rourke, T. Vincent, S. Comensoli, S. Allen, P. Coleman. WODONGA: C. Williamson, B. Fox, R. Thompson, B. Russell, J. Gilbee, B. Oates. North Albury 9 10 (64) Myrtleford 5 10 (40)
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: A. Crelley, J. Spurr, C. Summers, D. Clancy, C. Iannelli, M. Norman. MYRTLEFORD: R. Bouker, C. Crisp, W. Graham, K. Michelini, L. Corcoran, N. Ferguson. Albury 14 8 (92) Wangaratta 1 3 (9)
BEST: ALBURY: L. Dattoli, B. Hodgson, B. McCloskey, H. Quinn, G. Favero, H. Just. WANGARATTA: H. Laverty, C. Hughes, K. Driscoll, C. Hines, T. Berry, N. O’Kane. Lavington 16 15 (111) Corowa Rutherglen: 3 4 (22)
BEST: LAVINGTON: C. Thompson, J. Weidemann, P. Ryan, K. Holman, D. Beavan, J. Beavan. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: E. Amery, L. Heagney, B. Minogue, M. Scott, D. Yates, J. Richardson. Wodonga Raiders 10 14 (74) Yarrawonga 9 8 (62)
BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS C. Taylor, B. Hernan, T. Scott, B. Knights, W. Knights, D. Ramage. YARRAWONGA: D. Flanagan, A. Dickins, B. Schofield, R. Mulquiney, J. James, H. Frauenfelder.
ROUND 10
SATURDAY, JUNE 21
WANG ROVERS vs NORTH ALBURY
WODONGA vs LAVINGTON MYRTLEFORD vs RAIDERS COROWA RUTHERGLEN vs WANGARATTA YARRAWONGA vs ALBURY
Milawa 23 15 (153)
Tarrawingee 4 4 (28)
BEST: MILAWA: D. Farley, B. Fitzpatrick, J.
Bodsworth,
Dellar, B. Marlborough,
Lepenik, A. Clark. BONNIE DOON: L. Berriman,
Turner, M. Tait, L. Pinder, K. Mulcahy, L. Jenkins.
C. Chamberlain 1.
BEST: MILAWA: J. Radovanovic, H. Allan, B. Kearns, T. Dunn, J. Lea, B. Bartlett. TARRAWINGEE: H. Amery, T. Heywood, N. Redley, S. Thompson,
MATCH REVIEWS
ROVED: Jalees Khan swoops on the loose ball after it spills from Tyler Dunn and Angus Beck in Milawa’s 70-point win over Tarrawingee.
O&K footy makes explosive return
By NATHAN DE VRIES
AFTER a break for the King’s Birthday long weekend, Saturday’s resumption of the Ovens and King season saw the forwards dine out around the grounds.
There were substantial results coming in from the five matches played of senior football, and with an average winning margin of 75.80 points, it was a tough weekend to be a defender.
Milawa continued their stellar form with a convincing 70 points win over Tarrawingee, 20.8 (128) to 8.10 (58). It was close early, with the Demons only leading by 13 points at quarter time, but Milawa soon worked into the match.
The Demons would kick
away through the middle quarters with incredible efficiency, adding 7.2 and 6.1 to lead by 77 points with a quarter to play.
Tarrawingee threw some punches of their own, winning the fourth quarter but the deficit was far too great to overcome.
Brady Bartlett and Joel Radovanovic kicked six each for Milawa, while Tarrawingee stalwarts Hugh Amery and Tom Salmon fought hard through the middle and across the back line.
Milawa coach Matt Graham said it was a pleasing result coming back from the week off.
“It was a nice start to the second half of the season for us,” he said. “We trained pretty hard
all week for the way we wanted to deliver into our forward line, to our talls and our smalls, and where we wanted to have our shots on goal from.
“By three quarter time we only had five behinds on the board.
“As Tarrawingee are as a club, they never give up, they play a very contested brand of football – I think they might’ve out-scored us in the last, so that’s something we need to switch on for and understand the game’s not over until the final siren goes.”
In other round 11 matches, ladder leaders Bright continued their dominance of the league with a 69 points destruction of fellow finals contender Goorambat.
The Mountain Men kicked seven goals to two through the first quarter and only built from there, the final scores reading 17.18 (120) to 7.9 (51).
League goal kicking leader Cooper Thomason only managed the single goal, but Cy Banks got off the chain to boot six in a best on ground performance.
The Bats’ key ball movers all performed well, with Jamie Dunne, Sam Gladstone and Dylan Beavis working hard all day, but Bright’s midfield and defensive structure were too strong.
Bonnie Doon was at their best against Benalla All Blacks, recording a 142 point annihilation.
The Bombers had essentially put the game to bet by
half-time, heading into the long break up by 52 points.
James Octigan led the Bombers in front of goals, finishing with a massive haul of 10 goals.
Joel Sanford (four goals) and James Law (three) were the other multiple goal kickers for Bonnie Doon, while Jessie Walker, Kieren Linke and David Button were among the best for the Panthers.
Reigning premiers Greta continued their stellar season with a 58 point win over Moyhu.
A scorching second quarter from the Blues knocked the Hoppers out of the contest, with Greta leading by 45 points at the long break from their nine-point quarter time lead.
James McClounan, Fraz -
er Judd and Osbert Ramage were all impactful on the scoreboard, while Moyhu’s Paddy McNamara and Nathan Gamble found plenty of the footy.
Elsewhere, North Wangaratta kept their September dreams alive with a dominant 40 point win over King Valley at Whitfield, 15.13 (103) to 9.9 (63).
The Hawks now sit sixth overall on the ladder with four wins, behind Bonnie Doon and Goorambat (seven wins each), Milawa and Greta (eight each), and Bright (nine).
Whorouly will re-enter the season after the bye with four wins, ahead of King Valley and Tarrawingee (three wins each), Moyhu (one) and Benalla All Blacks (yet to win).
TOO STRONG: Dan Witham shakes a tackle.
ENTRY: Kyle Collison sends the Demons inside 50.
SLICK MOVES: Braydon Kearns steps around Tom Salmon.
GOT HIS KICK: Ashley Cook goes down the line.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
MATCH REVIEWS
Wangaratta Rovers come from five goals behind to ruin Wodonga Bulldogs’ day with a stunning victory
■ From back page
The Rovers surged in the third, with Christie standing tall in the contest and slamming on the goals, bringing the brown and gold ever closer back into the contest.
Behind by just seven points heading into the final chapter, Dylan Wilson snapped the first of the quarter before Will Christie found his fifth to give the Rovers the lead for the first time.
The Bulldogs refused to lay down, fighting tooth and nail across the ground, while the Rovers couldn’t land the killing blow.
Rovers would put themselves two goals up midway through the fourth through a stunning kick from Filo, which would prove the difference in the contest.
Once the Hawks held the lead, they fought to slow the game down, with stoppage after stoppage running the clock down until the siren sounded.
Coach Sam Murray said his side dramatically improved after half-time.
“I think the boys were pretty fresh and primed for a big opportunity, but we were a little fumbly, we gave the ball up at contest a little too much which played into the way they like to play - they’re really aggressive with their spread from contest and handball game,” he said.
“How we were playing early definitely gave them the opportunity to be able to score on us.
“When we were able to connect again at half-time and make some positional changes, but also refresh the mindset of the players, we were able to get the game back on our terms, how we initially planned.
“It took a little grit and determination to be able to slowly drag that score back, but we knew if we gave ourselves enough opportunities down forward, we’d find some goals, and lucky enough it only amounted to 30 points – it probably could’ve been a bit worse if we’re being honest.
“We felt it was manageable if we slowly chipped away at it, and it was good to be able to get the win.”
Will Christie was among the best for the Rovers, while Lochie O’Brien, Ed Dayman and Noah Scholte put together amazing games, with Xavier Allison operating as the general in the back line.
“We put Will Christie a bit deeper which seemed to be a really big difference for us in our ability to find some score through him, who kicked four in the second half,” Murray said.
“We got Lochie O’Brien to go away from a bit of a team role he was playing to try and generate his run and carry in the second half, it turned out to be a really big part of us being able to get back in the contest.
“I thought Xavier had a really good game, one of his better ones for the season.
“Some not-as-big-name players such as Joel Smith, Jace McQuade, Charles Ledger, these guys who are just ultra consistent down back did really great jobs.”
Elsewhere, it was a major upset at the Albury Sports Ground, where Wangaratta Magpies fell to the Tigers 10.10 (70) to 16.10 (106).
The match was an arm-wrestle early, with just a point in it at half-time.
The Magpies were generating enough chances in the third but failed to convert, with Albury pulling ahead by 11 points at three quarter time.
It was a disastrous final term for the ‘Pies – while they managed to find three goals, Albury went to another level, booting seven fourth-term majors to lock in the six-goal result.
The once-close ladder is beginning to separate, with Rovers and North Albury leading the pack, Lavington and Wangaratta a game behind them, and Myrtleford, Wodonga and Albury another four points back.
KICKED CLEAR: Ed Dayman launches the ball form a stoppage.
THE GENERAL: Xavier Allison led the backline well all day.
PINNED: Lockey McCarthy lays a massive tackle, with Brodie Filo in support.
BOOMING LEFT BOOT: Sam Murray sends the Rovers inside forward 50.
TALL TARGET: Will Christie’s four second-half goals, and five for the match, helped the Rovers get over the line against a classy Wodonga.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
TACKLED
MILAWA’S Daniel Bihun wraps up Scott Thompson in the Demons’ 70-point win over Tarrawingee.
Milawa sits second on the ladder a er round 11.
■ O&K match reviews page 14.
Melissa Beattie
IT was uncharacteristically ugly early on, but Wangaratta Rovers’ senior footballers fired when it mattered to complete a 31-point turnaround to take the win against Wodonga Bulldogs at W J Findlay
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
Oval on Saturday. After a dismal first half which saw fumbles, poor decision-making and lacklustre discipline, the Rovers managed to fight back to take the points 11.8 (74) to 10.9 (69).
simple skills, while Wodonga moved the ball cleanly and hit the scoreboard to put the pressure on the home team.
ter, only managing two goals through the first half, while the Bulldogs kicked away to a 31-point lead at the half.
The first half was one to forget for the defending premiers, failing to execute
Rovers looked flatfooted and not up for the fight through the second quar-
The game was far from over, but the Rovers needed to lift.
They started the second half on the right foot, with Tom Boyd, Lochie O’Brien and Brodie Filo combining to hit Will Christie inside forward 50, starting the fightback.
