Chronicle Wednesday 190624

MARGARET Hurd and Ron Webb are encouraging the community to come along to enjoy the Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts.

FULL STORY PAGE 2

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma COME HEAR OUR CITY ORCHESTRA

A LACK of detail in the 2024-25 Victorian Budget concerning how much of a $186 million increase in the re services property levy will be distributed to the Country Fire Authority (CFA) has been criticised by CFA District 23 president Garry Nash.

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Ratepayers will see the increase in the levy on their municipal rates notice from

budget to be spent on the CFA that services rural and regional Victoria.

“It seems to be city centric when there is $186m in taxes the government will reap from ratepayers that will go towards the Fire Rescue Victoria service that pretty much looks a er city services,” he said.

LOOK AFTER CFA

supporting the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program recommitting $15m and it is allocating $18.58m over the next three years to replace 15 CFA pumpers, however, Mr Nash said this doesn’t go far enough.

they estimate there’s at least $30m each year that needs to be spent to stop the eet from going backwards.

rural brigades are still tin

rural brigades are still tin sheds with no toilet facilities for female re ghters or anywhere to change,” he said.

But Mr Nash, who has decades of volunteer service with Wangaratta South CFA, said none of the funding has been detailed in the state

The government is

He cited the Myrrhee and Cheshunt CFA units and their lack of toilet and change room facilities, and said there was a lag on equipment and safety apparel renewal.

■ Continued page 3 District

He said there are about 700 cab tankers in Victoria that need to be replaced and

“In the local area there are ageing tankers, and many

“It’s so archaic and we know the government is cash strapped to not provide us with a new tanker every 20 years, but if they don’t keep up with some of the replacement, we’ll never get there.

Let the orchestra transport you to the sea

By JORDAN DUURSMA

DON’T miss out on the opportunity to hear the Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra (WSO) perform live in concert this month.

The WSO is performing ‘The Symphony of the Seas’ at Beechworth Memorial Hall at 2pm this Sunday, June 23, and at Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre at on Thursday, June 27, from 7.30pm.

WSO secretary Wendie Wilkes said even though Wangaratta is a long way from the sea you can be transported there in your mind at the WSO’s next concert.

“[The concert will feature] a diverse range of music, mostly relat-

ed to the theme of water and will take you to many places,” she said It opens with The Hebrides, a concert overture that was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1830.

“The piece was inspired by one of Mendelssohn’s trips to the British Isles, speci cally to the tiny Scottish island of Sta a,” said Wendie.

“The music will help you hear the swell of the ocean and the echoing of the waves as they crash into the island cave and on the rocks.”

The concert program also includes Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky, Beethoven’s 6th Symphony, Mozart’s well known Horn Con-

Max 12 Min -2 Fog then sunny

RAINFALL:

itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

certo no. 4, Blue Danube Waltz by Johann Strauss, Moon River by Henry Mancini with words by Johnny Mercer, the traditional Sailors Hornpipe, Sheherezade by Rimsky-Korsakov, a medley from Showboat written by Jerome Kern and ending with a beautiful symphonic poem called The Moldau, composed in 1888 by Smetana.

“We look forward to sharing this experience of water with you,” said Wendie.

Pricing for WSO concert at Beechworth is $25 for general admission and children under 16 are free - book at https://events. humanitix.com/symphony-ofthe-seas.

Tickets will also be available at the door.

Pricing for WSO concert at Wangaratta is $35 for general admission and $10 for children U16. Book your tickets at https:// www.wpacc.com.au/Whats-On/ Wangaratta-Symphony-Orchestra-Symphony-of-the-Seas.

For more information contact the WSO via email at wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail.com.

FACE THE MUSIC: Margaret Hurd will be taking to the stage this weekend, showcasing her talents as a violinist in the Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts.

Drug drive P-Plater was

“lucky” to survive crash

A P-PLATER has been dealt a six-month licence suspension for drug driving a er crashing into a tree at Tarrawingee last year.

Wangaratta Magistrates court heard this week that the defendant was seen driving along the Great Alpine Road through Tarrawingee at a “high rate of speed” when he lost control and hit a tree at around 11:06am on November 18.

Witnesses helped him out of his ute before emergency service

He was taken to hospital with minor injuries, where a blood sample analysed by police later found methamphetamine and gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) present in his bloodstream.

While searching the vehicle at the scene of the crash, police found a bag lled with medication scripts, a tazer, and a bottle of GHB.

The man was arrested in January and said he couldn’t remem-

the people who had helped him out the vehicle.

Defence counsel Geo Clancy said his client had struggled since having his licence suspended and had turned a corner since the crash, moving away from a “negative social group” in Wangaratta to live in Melbourne with his family, who had rallied around him.

Magistrate Ian Watkins told the 19-year-old he was lucky to escape the crash without harming

nity and imposed a $1000 ne and six-month licence suspension.

“It’s a busy stretch on that road, especially at that time of day,” he said.

“You get pretty close to death on that [GHB], you’ve got better things to do than be on that rubbish.

“You’ve got a lot going for you so take advantage of it.”

Magistrate Watkins also ordered seizure of the tazer and drugs found in the vehicle.

Bill honoured with life, after 25 years of service

By JORDAN DUURSMA

BILL Bellis has been honoured with life membership of the Wangaratta Men’s Probus Club a er a commendable commitment of serving 25 years. Club president Laurence Neal bestowed the honour in a touching ceremony at the Wangaratta Club yesterday.

Wangaratta Men’s Probus Club members applauded and congratulated Bill on his signi cant achievement and long term commitment to the club.

He joined the Probus Club of Wangaratta on March 16, 1999 and was appointed secretary in March the following year, a position he served in until 2004.

He had a break for one year and was appointed secretary again at the AGM in 2006 and served until 2010.

Bill was responsible for activities in 2004 and 2005 and again between 2007 and 2011.

He served as president in 2011 and 2012, and had a break as secretary until 2021 when he was appointed again.

Bill held the position as secretary until April 2023 when he su ered a stroke that forced him to step down.

He also kept the membership register between 2014 and 2020 and again in 2021 until he su ered his stroke.

Bill said it was great to be back with the Wangaratta Men’s Probus Club a er his break.

“I hope I will be able to continue on from today onwards,” he said.

Bill is now a permanent resident in Illoura Residential Aged Care with his wife Beryl.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

HONOURING BILL’S SERVICE: Laurence Neal presented Bill Bellis with his life membership yesterday, recognising 25 years of service to the Wangaratta Men’s Probus Club. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

Blitz on Hume Fwy speed

POLICE have been out in force over the past 48 hours as a major road policing operation on the Hume Freeway continues.

Wangaratta Highway Patrol o cers have been involved in Operation Hamilton, which is running in conjunction with New South Wales Police’s Operation Furious in an e ort to reduce road trauma on one of the state’s major roads.

Interstate police crackdown to reduce road trauma

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

The joint operations

Airlifted to hospital after sustaining serious injuries from fallen tree

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A MAN in his 60s was airli ed to hospital a er being pinned by a fallen tree near Greta on Tuesday morning.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said paramedics were called to the incident at Upper Lurg at around 9:45am.

An SES Victoria spokesperson said Benalla SES crew assisted paramedics in accessing the rural site with the unit’s four-wheel drive.

The man was safely extracted from the scene in a stretcher and placed into an air ambulance, which transported him to the Alfred Public Hospital.

The patient was treated for upper and lower body injuries.

cover nearly 900km of road from Melbourne to Sydney, with police focusing on behaviours that contribute to road trauma, in particular speeding.

The road policing blitz began on Monday and will end on Thursday.

Drivers have already been caught out with the increased police presence, including a truck driver returning a positive preliminary breath test and receiving an infringement notice for failing to record information in a work di-

ary near Benalla on Monday.

The operation comes as the Wangaratta and Wodonga region experienced a signi cant increase in road trauma in 2023 with 25 fatal collisions - 10 higher than the previous year, and 187 serious injury collisions, a 10 per cent increase on the previous year.

Of these, around 20 per cent occurred on or close to the Hume Freeway.

Last time Operation Hamilton was conducted on the Hume Freeway over a fourday period, highway patrol intercepted 200 vehicles and detected 35 speeding offences, seven unregistered vehicles, three unlicenced drivers, impounded two ve-

hicles and issued seven defect notices.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir, said police are warning motorists to take extra care when travelling on the Hume Freeway, which is a major route in Victoria carrying high volumes of trafc.

There will also be a focus on heavy vehicles, with truck drivers to be subjected to compliance checks.

District 23 president

Garry Nash calls for more funding to support CFA volunteer brigades

■ From page 1

“We do put our priorities in from a regional basis and it gets squashed further up the chain.

“People have to come to the table and be more receptive to what brigades, groups and districts need.”

Mr Nash said another beef that members had was a dra proposal that Victorian Treasury would be the keeper of fundraising monies that would require brigades to apply to obtain funds for a social occasion or an awards night event.

“That created a very big push back from brigades throughout the state,” he said.

Mr Nash said the contribution volunteers make to society is undervalued, but in lateral economics their e orts are worth about $2.5 billion to Victoria every year.

“I’m not isolating this to the CFA, it can be said for SES, or St John’s Ambulance - if you took it away, we wouldn’t have anywhere near the type of service we currently have,” he said.

“I think the government is missing a very, very big point here - they’re clawing and grappling for money and they should be looking a er volunteers because what we provide is 24/7.

“People get called out at 10 o’clock at night or three o’clock in the morning, they save people’s lives or assets and go back and go to work.

“They do this over and over again, and they go to training and governments should be looking a er this a lot better because this is a massive cost saving on expense.”

■ EDITORIAL PAGE 6

Man trafficking drugs to fund own addiction jailed for three months

A MAN caught with large quantities of heroin and methamphetamine has been jailed for three months.

Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court heard on Monday that the man was intercepted by police and arrested on June 6, a er returning from his

sister’s residence in Torquay.

He was caught with 16.17 grams of heroin and 3.12 grams of methamphetamine and placed in custody.

Appearing via video from custody, the court heard the man had pleaded guilty to tra cking the rec-

reational drugs to fund his own drug addiction.

Defence counsel Geo Clancy said his client had intentions to seek help and get straight with his drug use and sought a short term of imprisonment with an early guilty plea.

Magistrate Ian Watkins said the defendant’s extensive criminal history, long standing addiction to drugs and endangering of the community through repeated trafcking o ences warranted a jail term.

Magistrate Watkins also im-

posed a 12-month community corrections order upon the man’s release, which would involve treatment for drug addiction.

“Embrace the opportunity you have with the community corrections order upon your release,” he said.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Starting the conversation for World Continence Week

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WORLD Continence Week, which ends this Sunday, is calling for more open and honest conversations with friends, family and health professionals about bladder and bowel control.

The Continence Foundation of Australia (CFoA) said a consumer survey of 2000 people last year saw 74 per cent believe that community awareness around bladder and bowel health is lacking.

Concerningly, 46 per cent of those who have or had incontinence have not discussed it with their friends or family, increasing from the year before, and more than 39 per cent of those respondents stated it was due to embarrassment.

Wangaratta-based continence nurse advisor at Gateway Health, Nicci Malcolm, said it can be embarrassing to talk about continence issues because it involves bladders and bowels.

“But if you speak to your healthcare provider, they can direct you to the care that’s right for you,” she said.

“With the right support, like the Bladder Health Program at Gateway Health, incontinence can be managed and treated.”

National continence helpline manager Janie Thompson said many people who experience incontinence are afraid to leave their home to do everyday activities often taken for granted.

“Whether it’s shopping, going for walks or catching up with friends, people with symptoms of incontinence may avoid going out into public all together due to a fear of having an accident, which can have a detrimental impact on their mental health,” she said.

“Given that over five million Australian’s experience incontinence, fostering greater conversations about the condition is crucial for reducing public stigma and building confidence for those affected.

“While sharing incontinence experiences may be uncomfortable at first, overcoming this barrier allows for greater understanding and support from loved ones.

“As evidenced by those surveyed, talking with their friends and family about incontinence can have a significant impact in improving lives of the one in four Australians with incontinence.”

Call the CFoA’s National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free, confidential advice from nurse continence specialists, Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.

To find out more about incontinence and how to support those experiencing it, please visit https://www.continence.org.au/.

Guns stolen from an improper safe

A WANGARATTA man has avoided conviction after firearms stolen from his home earlier this year, were found to have been improperly stored.

Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday heard the defendant’s hardwood gun safe which was bolted into his shed, storing his firearms, had been broken into on February 3 this year.

The man immediately reported the theft to police, who attend-

ed and found the wooden gun safe did not meet requirements. Due to regulation changes from August 2022, all firearms were to be stored in a purposebuilt steel storage receptacle.

When asked by police about the regulations, the man said he had only found out about the steel safe requirements around three months prior to the break in via Facebook and regrettably didn’t get around to changing his safe.

The man’s firearm’s licence was suspended.

Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client now knows why the regulations had been changed, but he couldn’t be charged because of someone else breaking into his place and stealing his firearms.

Mr Clancy said police had been able to seize five of the weapons that were stolen from the safe because of his client’s

fast and appropriate response with officers.

Magistrate Ian Watkins gave no convictions and adjourned the matter to a later date for behavioural assessment of the defendant.

“Essentially you’re here because of the wrongdoing of others,” he said.

“It was a good safe, it just didn’t comply with the regulations.”

YOU’RE INVITED TO A CWA INFORMATION DAY

THOONA Country Women’s Association (CWA) is inviting like-minded women to come along to an information day to learn more about joining.

The information day will be held this Sunday, June 23 at 2pm in the Thoona hall.

It is open to all ages and a great chance to see how you can play a part for social connections and community service.

No baking or knitting experience is required.

Local member Jan James said CWA cares about the community by reaching out to people who are lonely, caring for vulnerable women, children and families and supporting disaster recovery teams.

“We also empower by providing support to those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, we challenge decision

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makers to drive social change, offer programs that provide opportunities to learn, and connect women from all walks of life,” she said,

“And we contribute by advocating on behalf of our communities, raise and distribute funds for disaster relief efforts and organisations that support vulnerable women, children and families, plus volunteer and step

up to do the work in local communities.”

CWA is an opportunity to create friendships, learn and share new skills, volunteer to assist those most vulnerable and in need, be involved in understanding issues impacting your community and advocate for change.

Learn more abut the what the CWA is at https://cwaofvic. org.au/about/.

Hoping to avoid conviction to improve job bid

A WANGARATTA woman is looking to avoid a community corrections order conviction for drug possession charges to gain better chances of employment.

The 34-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to being caught in possession of small quantities of methamphetamine, cannabis, heroin and valium.

The court heard on February 16, police searched a home in the Rangeview estate where the drugs were found and two people, including the defendant, were arrested.

Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client had experienced issues with drugs for some time but had entered drug counselling since being caught with the “non-trafficable” amount of drugs.

Mr Clancy said his client was applying for employment and was seeking an adjournment to further demonstrate her prospects of rehabilitation.

The matter will return on August 28.

A CHANCE TO CONNECT: Thoona CWA members Robyn Goudie, Ellen Hooper, Maree Semple, Heather Soyer, Karen Smith, Pauline Macey and Faye Glover welcome women of all ages to come along to their information day this Sunday.

Cyclists encouraged to light up and be seen this winter

LOCAL road safety advocacy group, RoadSafe North East (RSNE), is urging road cyclists to ensure they are highly visible during the day and night, especially over the darker winter months.

Bike riders need to use front and rear lights when riding in low visibility conditions or at night, so they are visible to other road users.

Australian road rules state that cyclists must display a front white light and rear red light visible from at least 200 metres away.

RSNE spokesperson John Weinert said that a simple on-off flashing sequence makes bike lights

noticeable to other road users, and helps them understand there is someone riding a bike up ahead.

He said the best spots to attach lights are on handlebars and seat post, which sets the lights at a height most visible to other road users.

“Lights attached to bags or clothing often end up facing the wrong direction, while lights on helmets are less visible to drivers and can also be a menace to other bike riders,” Mr Weinert said.

Recent findings from a Bicycle Network study revealed that fluorescent clothing and in particular, leggings were very effec-

tive in increasing a rider’s visibility, due to the pedalling motion.

The report confirmed the powerful visibility impact of fluorescent and/ or reflective ankle bands fitted to bike riders.

The study is one of a number to report that drivers recognise bike riders with the leggings much earlier and at further distances than other visibility aids.

Bicycle Network has long recommended reflective ankle bands as a powerful visibility enhancement at night, and now there is convincing evidence that they are also effective during daylight.

Thief’s ‘lock up’ warning

A THIEF has been warned to change his ways a er narrowly avoiding a term of imprisonment.

Appearing at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, the 34-year-old man pleaded guilty to stealing smart lights, a PlayStation 5, supermarket cosmetic items and assaulting a supermarket shopper in his e orts to pay o a drug debt.

On February 23, the defendant was spotted on CCTV entering a Wangaratta supermarket where he was caught stealing seven items from the cosmetics aisle and placing them in a bag.

The store manager noticed the man and asked to have his bag checked before exiting the store.

The defendant refused and attempted to ee, before be-

Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard told the court the man had admitted to police he was stealing items to sell o and fuel his drug habit.

ing stopped by a witness, who was verbally abused, grabbed by the neck and pushed away by the defendant as he le the store.

Police later arrested the thief who said he had felt threatened by the victim and store manager and he “couldn’t remember” what he had stolen.

A day a er the supermarket the , the man was caught on CCTV breaking into the glass cabinet of the electronics section of Big W and steal-

ing a PlayStation 5 valued at $329.

When asked by police to return the PlayStation, the defendant said he had already sold o the gaming console.

The defendant old also ignored requests of a Bunnings Warehouse store manager to have his bags checked a er CCTV caught him stealing two smart lights valued at $103 on February 5.

Defence counsel Nancy Battiato said her client lives with a disability and had re-

cently re-engaged with a disability support worker, TAFE studies and social sport, which he said had helped his recent good record.

“He is trying to improve himself, there’s some positives in his life,” she said.

Ms Battiato said her client had previously engaged in treatment at a rehabilitation centre, but was discharged late last year due to poor behaviour.

Magistrate Ian Watkins imposed a $700 ne and told the

defendant he was “creeping closer to custody” following repeated court appearances.

“If you don’t change your ways the court will have no choice but to lock you up,” he said.

“Stop taking drugs and stop stealing.”

The defendant said he wouldn’t o end again.

“From 7am to 6pm I’ll be out of the house and keeping busy,” he said.

“I’ve got to treat people with respect.”

use lights and fluorescent clothing to ensure they can be seen by other road users, especially in the darker winter months.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

CFA pleas can’t go unanswered

LOCAL CFA brigades deserve to see more clear and definite financial support from the State Government.

CFA District 23 president Garry Nash has rightly questioned why more rural brigades are seemingly not getting their fair share of a $186 million increase in the fire services property levy - which was introduced on the premises of helping to fund fire services, especially CFA country brigades.

Many in our community would no doubt share Mr Nash’s view that government supporting the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program recommitting $15m and allocating $18.58m over the next three years to replace 15 CFA pumpers, hardly goes far enough.

He cited the Myrrhee and Cheshunt CFA units and their lack of toilet and changeroom facilities, and said there was a lag on equipment and safety apparel renewal.

Local brigades are also once again be without a home, as their long-term plea for assistance in forming a permanent base and Incident Control Centre within the rural city remain unanswered.

With local authorities working together to try and find a solution, State Government support – be it financial or otherwise – needs to remain forthcoming.

Mr Nash’s plea come at the height of ongoing CFA brigade disputes with the State Government, with at least 24 CFA brigades going on strike in Western Victorian, demanding a halt to the State Government’s renewables rollout.

The Wangaratta Group’s 16 brigades are a formidable force, but they and other regional and rural CFA brigade centres need and deserve the necessary support to function at their full capabilities to maximise a response during emergencies – otherwise it is the community which ultimately suffers.

The Australian Quiz

1

Rubella is more commonly known by what name?

(a) German measles

(b) Chicken pox

(c) Glandular fever

(d) Whooping cough

2

The 1943 novel, The Fountainhead, was the first major literary success for which author?

(a) J. R. R. Tolkien

(b) Ayn Rand

(c) Agatha Christie (d) George Orwell

3

Iguazu Falls is located on the border of which two countries?

Banderas

(a) Brazil and Bolivia

(b) Brazil and Uruguay

(c) Brazil and Peru

(d) Brazil and Argentina

4 Which team won the 2022 Indian Premier League?

(a) Rajasthan Royals

(b) Royal Challengers Bangalore

(c) Gujarat Titans

(d) Kolkata Knight Riders

5 In 1979, who had a hit with the song, Hot Stuff?

(a) Anne Murray

(b) Gloria Gaynor

(c) Dolly Parton

(d) Donna Summer

We can all be part of reconciliation

LAST week my wife and I attended a performance of “The Sunshine Club” at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

What a magnificent show!

Music and dance beautifully choreographed, magnificent individual performances, both acting and singing, and an important message to us all: “If not now, when?”

Thanks to the producer, Wesley Enoch, and to the WPACC for having it performed here.

Last year’s referendum wasn’t the last word on reconciliation.

The show reminded us that we all have an ongoing role to play in the process of reconciliation.

The message of The Sunshine Club was to not give up but to be inspired by the resilience and tenacity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

We were encouraged to engage, and join their efforts to bring urgent change through justice, truth-telling, treaty and genuine relationship.

6

The chemical element, uranium, is classified as a what?

(a) Halogen

(b) Actinide

(c) Lanthanide

(d) Noble gas

7 How many red stars appear on the flag of Panama?

(a) Zero

(b) One (c) Two (d) Four

8

Who provided the voice of Puss in Boots in the Shrek movie series?

(a) Antonio Banderas

(b) Mike Myers

(c) John Lithgow

(d) Eddie Murphy

9 Rachel and Natalie Grinham are best known for their involvement in which sport?

(a) Tennis (b) Cricket (c) Netball

(d) Squash

10 Which Prime Minister of Thailand was deposed in a military coup in 2006?

(a) Samak Sundaravej

(b) Surayud Chulanont

(c) Thaksin Shinawatra

(d) Somchai Wongsawat

Non-Indigenous Australians can support by showing up, by listening, learning and amplifying First Nations voices - this is how we add logs to the fire, with the theme for NAIDOC Week next month being “Keep the Fire Burning: Blak, Loud and Proud”.

John van Riet, Wangaratta South

Majority of hunters obey the rules

FIELD and Game Australia (FGA) is pleased to report that once again the vast majority of hunters displayed exemplary behaviour during the 2024 Victorian duck hunting season.

Overall, hunters contributed to a safe and regulated hunting environment, demonstrating that hunters are reasonable, responsible people.

Throughout the season, the Victorian Game Management Authority (GMA) conducted an extensive compliance operation, with 511 patrols across Victoria’s waterways and wetlands.

These efforts were supported by Victoria Police, DEECA, Safe Transport

Victoria, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, and Parks Victoria.

Authorised officers checked more than 1550 game licences and inspected more than 1200 hunter bags.

Only 26 hunting-related offences were detected.

While these breaches are concerning and must be addressed, notably compliance with bag limits was 100 per cent.

The offences detected included invalid game licences, possession of toxic shot, and failure to leave a wing attached.

The GMA is addressing these violations with 22 infringement notices and 32 ongoing investigations.

Lucas Cooke, FGA CEO

Petition is a childish political game

THE member for Ovens Valley is encouraging people to sign a petition to strip former Premier Dan Andrews of his King’s Birthday award because it is for work that was paid rather than unpaid.

Can the member for Ovens Valley

confirm that he will also be seeking the stripping of awards to former Coalition Premiers, such as Jeff Kennett.

There are many issues facing people in the regions, such as mobile phone coverage, funding for roads, schools and hospitals etc.

Maybe the time of our state member might be better spent focusing on these rather than playing childish political games.

Viviane King, Milawa

A WINTER REFLECTION: Valerie Kennedy captured this tranquil image of the old railway bridge reflecting in the Ovens River over the weekend. It’s a subtle reminder of the riverine environment on our doorstep.

Clubhouse Artist Impression

KING VALLEY NEWS

Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas

Stephen Hall supper show is coming to Edi Upper hall

THE second show in the King Valley Arts Presents series of four performances being held at local halls, will visit the Edi Upper Hall on Friday, July 19.

Stephen Hall, of Mad As Hell fame, will bring his brand new one-man show, Letters From My Heroes, to the King Valley as part of a tour of regional Victoria.

The show debuted at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival to great acclaim and Stephen has since revisited the premise, revealing how he has been writing to his heroes – the stars of stage and screen – asking for advice.

Those who come along will nd out how they all might have responded if they’d ever actually bothered to reply, as Stephen shares some hilarious celebrity impressions.

Audiences will recognise their own heroes (and perhaps some

Greta Craft Group’s High Tea for cancer

MEMBERS of the Greta Craft Group held a Cancer Council Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event on May 22 at the Old Greta School.

The theme was High Tea and everyone dressed accordingly, enjoying a variety of interesting, tasty, dainty nibbles which made up their lunch.

Nola Jones said $220 was raised with donations and they each bought a small present, paid $5, then shared a gift with each other.

She said the usual quizzes and jokes made for a fun, sharing day.

Also, it was goodbye to long time members, Anita Lia, who has moved to Rosebud, and condolences go to the family of Joy Barr, another busy quilter with the group.

For enquiries about the Greta Craft Group contact Nola Jones on 5727 9295.

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host lunch at the Wangaratta Club today from 12 noon.

The club will also host indoor carpet bowls on Thursday from 12 noon, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the group’s clubrooms or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

WANGARATTA Royal Children’s Hospital Ladies Auxiliary will hold a street stall on Thursday, June 20 in the council kiosk in Reid Street to raise funds for the RCH.

The usual array of cakes, preserves, knitwear and other items will be available for sale from 8.30am, as well as freshly-made lamingtons.

RSL Women’s Auxiliary will hold a hoy day on Thursday, June 20 from 2pm.

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

villains) as he expertly brings them to life on stage, but it also digs a little deeper, as he reveals some of the personal reasons behind his need for heroes and how he eventually recognised the true hero of his family and his life.

The King Valley Arts live performance program is supported by a Creative Victoria Small Regional Presenters Grant, bringing the four live performances from Regional Arts Victoria’s Connecting Places program to halls in the King Valley, in partnership with local community groups and schools.

King Valley Arts president Anita Laurence said the rst show in the series - Damon Smith’s Piano Palooza - was held at the Cheshunt Hall in May and was thoroughly

and dancing,” she said.

“We like to share the shows among the di erent halls and at this one, a lovely supper was provided by Sustainable King Valley during interval.

“There was a good mix of people, including a number who hadn’t been to one of King Valley Arts Presents series of performances before, and it was great to see them come along.”

Moyhu Tennis Club meeting

MOYHU Tennis Club will hold its annual general meeting (AGM) tonight at the Moyhu Hotel ‘Ole Bank’ for a 6.30pm start.

All interested are welcome to attend, with RSVP to Jacqui on 0429 020 177.

Rick’s farewell barbecue in Moyhu

on Friday, July 19 from 7pm.

enjoyed by all who went along.

She said it was also a great opportunity to get the hall’s old piano tuned in readiness for Damon’s arrival, and it is now playable again for anyone who wants to use it.

“It was a great event, with Damon even getting a few people up

Stephen Hall’s Letters From My Heroes will be hosted by the Edi Upper Hall committee with the $30 ticket price including supper, which will be served a er the 50 minute show.

Doors open at 6.30pm (with drinks available at bar prices) and the show will start at 7pm.

Get your tickets at Humanitix or visit kingvalleyarts.com.au and following the links, with the last comedy show at the Edi Upper hall drawing a full house.

Admission is $10 per person and includes afternoon tea.

Book through the RSL on 5721 2501, where transportation to the event can also be arranged.

THE Australian Plants Society (Wangaratta) will hold its next meeting on Thursday, June 27 from 7pm, at the Masonic Hall on the corner of Esmond and Appin Streets.

Presenter will be Isabel Young, speaking on ‘Dyeing materials using native plants’.

There is a follow-up on Saturday, June 29 from 9.30am to 12.30pm in a workshop at 475 Shanley Street, Wangaratta South - all welcome.

WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held on Friday, June 28 from 2pm to 4pm in St Patrick’s supper room in Ford Street, with music by Rustic Ramblers.

The dance is held on the fourth

SOCIAL CALENDAR

Friday of each month, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm.

Admission is $5 (non-members $7), which includes afternoon tea.

For details, phone Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral. All welcome. For details, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.

WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present).

The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7pm to 8.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. Contact Bevan on 0437 196 118.

WANGARATTA Keenagers Table

Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome.

Morning tea provided – please bring your own cup. Contact Maureen O’Keefe on 0409 215 881.

WANGARATTA Orchid Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6.30pm in St Patrick’s supper room, off Ford Street. Meetings include flower shows and talks, and everyone is welcome. Phone Hans on 0428 119 737.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of each month from

A BARBECUE to farewell principal Rick Martin as he embarks on retirement, will be held at Moyhu Primary School on Friday, June 21 at 5.30pm.

Current and past school families are encouraged to attend and celebrate Rick’s career and contribution to the school, with a barbecue dinner and dessert provided (byo drinks).

RSVP to the school on 5727 9298.

Fishing club competition in Glenrowan

KING River and District Fishing Club will hold a Future’s Fishing Comp at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve on Sunday, June 30. Registration is from 10am (with a prize for registering) and there will be raffle, with a free sausage sizzle at 12.30pm, the raffle drawn at 2pm and all welcome.

Whitfield Rec Reserve special meeting

THE Rural City of Wangaratta invites the Whitfield community to a special general meeting to appoint a new Community Asset Committee. The committee plays an integral role and ensures the important venue and service for the Whitfield and King Valley community is maintained.

The meeting will be held at the AC Swinburne Pavilion on Wednesday, July 3 at 5.30pm.

For more information on becoming a committee member and to register to attend email recreation@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call council on 5722 0888.

9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street. Beginner and experienced members welcome. Contact Frances on 0417 158 220.

OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta.

New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.

OXLEY table tennis weekly social competition is held on Mondays from 7pm at the Oxley Hall. Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in.

Bring your own bat, $2 entry fee, and small plate to share. Contact June Uebergang on 0497 860 785 (text only).

FUN AND GAMES: Mad as Hell’s Stephen Hall will present Letters from my heroes (if they’d actually bothered to write back) at the Edi Upper Hall

FUNDRAISING IN STYLE: Supporting the Greta Cra Group’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event were (from le ) Janine Crawford, Toni Moore, Lyn Finger, Robyn Desmier, Shirley Godfrey, Julie White, Heather Burton, Chris Lay, Gladys Rees, Beatrice Anderson, Helen Bird and Nola Jones.

Mao’s Last Dancer.

Come experience the courageous true story of The Peasant Prince

AN award-winning production of The Peasant Prince, by Monkey Baa Theatre Company, will be presented at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in July for the enjoyment of local families.

The children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, The Peasant Prince is the remarkable true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene.

Li, a 10-year-old peasant boy

Ostinato performs songs of protest and hope

WANGARATTA-based community choir Ostinato will perform two concerts featuring songs inspired by “Protest, Passion and Hope” at the Oxley Shire Hall this weekend.

Including both traditional and modern music, the choir will be led by director, Ruth HillNoble and accompanied by Sandra Williams.

Performances will be held at 2pm on both Saturday and Sunday, with tickets $20 (adults, under 16 gold coin at the door) available from trybooking.com/CRQHJ.

is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city.

He leaves everything and everyone he loves, including his family.

Over years of gruelling training, this boy transforms from an impoverished peasant to a giant of the international dance scene.

Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations

All outdoor expo at Wangaratta Racecourse

THE Rural City of Wangaratta in collaboration with 3NE/Edge FM will present the All Outdoor Expo on Sunday, June 30 at Wangaratta Racecourse.

The event will feature a variety of indoor and outdoor stalls showcasing 4WD vehicles, camping gear, bicycles, fishing and hunting equipment, specialty goods, energy providers and much more.

There will also be something for young people with a jumping castle, mermaid braids and facepainting.

It will run from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, June 30 and entry is free.

to be the best person we can be. Audiences will be captivated by this very personal story, truly a 20th century fairy tale.

Monkey Baa is an Australian theatre company empowering young people to shape their lives through inspiring, imaginative theatre and creative experiences.

It creates, presents and tours performances powered by imagination, bringing eye-opening ideas and boundless fun.

Monkey Baa’s extraordinary production of The Peasant

Echoes of Pink Floyd in Wangaratta

AUSTRALIA’s own Echoes of Pink Floyd brings a painstakingly crafted homage to the English powerhouse rockers live performances, in the amazing concert experience, Signs of Life.

Signs of Life will celebrate the heady years of the late eighties, with the best songs from the Delicate Sound of Thunder tour thoughtfully reproduced for Pink Floyd fans of all ages and backgrounds.

It arrives at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre this Friday night at 8pm, with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.

The Long Road continues

FOLLOWING its successful opening last week, don’t miss the opportunity to see The Long Road at the Stage Door Theatre in Evans Street this weekend.

It tells the story of what happens after 18-year-old Danny is fatally stabbed in a random attack, and how his family struggles to find meaning and forgiveness after their unimaginable loss.

A topical and powerful play, see it on Friday and Saturday at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 2pm, with tickets at https:// www.trybooking.com/CRRUA.

Landscape exhibition at community gallery

AN exhibition by emerging artist Margaret Bennett called Rainbow Ridge, named after the sheep farm which inspires much of her work, opens at the Art Gallery on Ovens tomorrow.

Margaret’s landscapes are realistic in approach, while her abstract work reflects an inner landscape, captured in oils, acrylic paint, charcoal, conte crayon and oil pastel on board and canvas.

See them from Thursday to Monday, with a ‘meet the artist’ event being held at the gallery in the laneway off Murphy Street this Saturday from 12pm to 2pm and all welcome.

won Best Production at The Glugs and The Sydney Theatre Awards and a Drover’s Award for the Best Tour in 2016.

The production is based on the book by Li Cunxin, illustrated by Anne Spudvilas, and adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry and it is designed to suit children aged seven to 12 years and their grown-ups.

See it on Thursday, July 25 at 6pm and on Friday, July 26 at 10am with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.

Symphony of the Seas by WSO

THE Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra will present a Symphony of the Seas, celebrating all kinds of water, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, June 27 at 7.30pm.

The WSO will play music including The Hebrides overture by Felix Mendelssohn, the theme from Swan Lake, Beethoven’s 6th Symphony (also known as the Pastoral symphony), and Mozart’s well known Horn Concerto featuring the orchestra’s talented horn player, Bronwyn McGorlick.

With many more water-themed classics to enjoy, get your tickets now at wpacc.com.au.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Be careful about doing someone a favor when you don’t know the full story behind the request. Don’t rely on someone’s unsubstantiated assurances. Insist on all the facts before you act.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) That workplace problem still needs your attention before you can finally close the book on it. Meanwhile, a long-anticipated reunion gets closer to becoming a happy reality.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You might be demanding more from others than they can give. Best advice: Have a long and frank talk to determine what the facts are. Tensions should abate as the week winds down.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Aspects are favorable throughout this week for making contacts that could be important to your career plans. Meanwhile, an old friend offers the advice you’re seeking.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s time to stop licking your wounds from past mistakes. Get up and get going toward your future. Loyal friends will be there to help the Lion get back into riproaring shape.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Take time out to go over what’s expected of you before you begin your new project. Otherwise, you run the risk of pushing yourself harder than you need to.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) An unusual request could put you in an awkward position. Best advice: Deal with it immediately. The longer you delay, the more difficult it will be to get out of it.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You should feel recharged and ready for whatever your workaday world holds for you. The same positive energy spills over into your personal relationships.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A prospect might be less than it appears to be. Like the Archer in your sign, you always aim for the truth. And this is no time to settle for less than full disclosure.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Start doing some serious thinking about a career move that could entail more than just changing job sites. Some lifestyle changes might also be involved.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) With tensions easing at the workplace, a more positive environment once again encourages the free flow of ideas that are so typical of the always-innovative Aquarian.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Show some of that usually hidden steel-strong Piscean backbone and stand up for yourself if you hope to make a case for that promotion you know you deserve.

INSPIRING STORY: Award-winning theatrical production The Peasant Prince is the children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography,

PHOTO: Heidrun Lohr (2016 production)

Prince

17th - 22nd June, 8am – 3pm

25% off all stock, 50% off selected stock Oddments and Seconds from $1

Explore a huge range of yarns from Australia’s largest Woollen Mills.

Home of Paton’s, Heirloom, Cleckheaton, Panda and many more!

In Store Shopping Only 18 Textile Avenue, Wangaratta

& LIVESTOCK

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.

PLASTERER, no job too small. Ph 0424 911 161.

whatever your need is in

JACK Russell tricolour pups, 2 male, 1

TOY Moodle puppies for sale, 2 beautiful male Toy Moodle puppies ready to go to their forever homes, both vaccinated, C5, microchipped, wormed and checked by the vet, DOB 16/3/2024 from very healthy parents, they make the perfect pet for families with children and seniors, located in Wangaratta, $2500 per puppy. Source ID: MB249823, microchip numbers:

RED Pajero “Activ”, 2010 model, 3.2 L turbo diesel, automatic transmission, LED light bar, factory bullbar, excellent condition, complete history, serviced by the book. BF Goodrich tyres, new Kenwood Radio with Apple/Android CarPlay, (1VL7RA) 246,000 km, $17,000 with roadworthy. Tel 0428 736 630.

2022 GLX Prado, local car, full warranty, as new, 59,000kms, reg (1WQ9ZO), bull bar, driving lights, roof racks, Anderson, Redarc, electrics, $69,000. Ph 0415 665 327.

YELLOW Hyundai sedan, 2000, (1YM9QQ), 218,242km, great car for new drivers, 5 speed manual, $4500 ono, located Mansfield. Ph 0439 719 529

PACKAGE Deal, for genuine sale 2004 Ford F250, 7.3hr Diesel, 291. 685km, has near new bravo a/t Maxxis 980 tyres, plus 2 spares on back, rear camera, rear airbag suspension, 274ltr fuel capacity plus 100ltr tank under rear canopy, rear slide on picnic table, central locking system, Hayman Rees tow ball, top winch to help load the boat, plus 5000 pound bull bar winch, lots storage includes 2x60ltr fridge slides, plus boat motor slide, 2 large draws in canopy, lots storage above canopy and below 3x120 Uni solar panels, has pro star solar controls wired ready to go, 4 glass matt batteries, plus built in charger, built in compressor. Side steps and bull bar all aluminum, driving lights CB radio, electric brake system to suit caravan, fully services and will sell with road worthy.

ADMINISTRATION SUPPORT

CREATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Entry level position. Come join our Creative Services team!

The creative services department provides graphic design services, pre-press services, IT troubleshooting and editorial pagination support for over 25 newspapers and magazines across North East Victoria and Southern NSW.

Skills and Experience

• Basic/Intermediate computer skills

• Willingness to learn

• An eye for detail

If you are looking for a challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

Applications should be forwarded to: Kelly Lovell

Creative Services Manager North East Media Pty Ltd klovell@nemedia.com.au

TOYOTA RAV4 2020 GXL, immac, white, reg (764ZEH), 75,000km with books, serviced by Toyota, extra 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, tow ball pack, mud flaps, wireless phone charging, $36,000. Ring Anne 0417 774 074.

Outback

3.6R 6 cyl station wagon with sunroof, 99,500km, one owner, full service history, reg (ATIB). Contact George

FORD Ranger XLT (1KK1ST), automatic 2017, 146,000km, diesel, long range tank, Red Arc electric brakes, dual batteries, just had service, transmission serviced every 50,000km, $35,500. Ph 0427 273 796.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

2014 Jayco Starcraft V91992 16ft 6in, PopTop, 2 single beds, shower-toilet, solar power, diesel heater, $31,800 neg. Ph 03 5766 2657.

Caravan, 2004 Kedron Cross Country, made in Brisbane, 20ft inside, electric brakes, pullout awning, has matching wheels as the F250, dual axle plus 2 spares. 2 x jerry can, holders at rear, in front bin has 4 x glass matt batteries, pro star solar controls invertor, has 4x120 Uni solar panels on roof, tv antenna, fold up side cooking table built on side, steps that gold up on the door, single beds with inner spring mattresses, wired for CPAP machines x 2, lots storage cupboards, built with Tasmanian oak, 4 burner stove with grill and oven, 240ltr Vitri Frigo, full sink, wired for TV, reverse cycle air con, Island bench table with storage under seats, storage under beds, brand new elec and gas hot water service (never used), water filters and hoses, electric legs, A-Trail Jack plus ockie wheel, 2 wind stiffeners pegs and mat (outside 8x4m) original tyres and rims for caravan, out door shower, 5 water tanks, one tank for drinking only, carpet or vinyl flooring, wired for 12 volt or 240 volt, full annex plus extra plus sun shade, never used, new wheel bearings (never used), 2 gas bottles, front bin and generator compartment, very clean and neat, has lots of extra’s as well. $139,900 ono package deal, will consider splitting, but they do compliment one another. Boat not included. Ph 0427 936 630.

CARAVANS AND CAMPERS

FOR SALE $50 OR UNDER

FIREWOOD for sale, good dry hardwood, cut your own to size, ute load plus trailer load for $300. Call 0428 970 591.

WHEELIE Walker as new, neat clean, red, $50. Ph 0427 549 021.

FIREWOOD redgum, boxed and mixed, bulk loads, garden sleepers and fencing timber. Ph 0448 933 999.

DEATH NOTICES

ELWARD, Gweneth May “Gwen”.

Passed away quietly at St. John’s Aged Care Home Wangaratta on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the age of 85.

Much loved wife of John for 63 years, mother to Joanne, Anthony, and Steven. Grandma to Bailey, Hollie, Luke, Beau, Riley, James and Danielle. Great grandma to Heidi.

Gone from us that smiling face, The cheerful pleasant ways, The heart that won so many friends, In bygone, happy days.

A life made beautiful by kindly deeds, A helping hand for others' needs.

To a beautiful life, Comes a peaceful end, She died as she lived, Everyone's friend.

GRAMSON, Peter John. 3/8/1959 – 11/6/2024

Loved husband of Tracey.

Adored Dad of Michael and Hayley and Step-Dad to Kane and Jake. Cherished Poppy of Jarrod, Jye, Vera and Heidi. Friend to many.

A life dedicated to providing for his family. We were so lucky to have you and will miss you for the rest of our lives. Now at rest with his beloved Zoe and Harley.

FUNERALS

ELWARD

A service to celebrate the life of Gweneth “Gwen” Elward is to be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, June 21, 2024 at 10.30am. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to join Gwen's family for the service.

Burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery will follow the service. Light refreshments will be served in the Memories Room at Mason Park following the burial.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

FUNERALS

GRAMSON

A memorial service for Mr Peter John Gramson will be held at the Shepparton Greyhounds Function Room, 7580 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 11am. This service will be livestreamed via our website. www.clivecoventry.com.au

Shepparton 5831 3922

IN MEMORIAM

ADAMS (nee Clyde), Robyn Frances. 28/2/1954 – 18/6/2023

One year has passed since your warmth, generosity, love and laughter was taken from us.

Missed every day and in every way. Loving wife to Steve, Mother of Matthew and Katherine, Mother-in-law of Kim and David, Nanna to Angus and Tilly, Kasey and Audrey.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Two wins for Wangaratta Knights

BOTH the Wangaratta Knights senior men’s and ladies league tag teams celebrated a win on Saturday, June 15.

The Multicultural Round was hosted by the Wodonga Wombats at home ground Baranduda Recreation Reserve.

The Knights ladies game against the Wombats started o strong with Tia Tahana-Phelan scoring a try within the rst few minutes.

Though there were no players available for the Knights bench, the energy carried through the rst half with Nicola Melville, and Ella Harris making her scoring debut by securing two tries.

Firing up on the second half the Knights brought home the win, with Nicola Melville, Chloe Darcy, coach Sal Kaiwai scoring one try each, and captain Fredericka Allan scoring two.

One successful conversion was kicked by Cathy De Villiers.

The nal score was 38-0 Knights’ way.

Wangaratta’s senior men followed suit, Jimi Jo Larson scoring the rst Try within ve minutes of game commencement.

Defence was strong on both teams part, Ned Blackley scoring a try, and Samuela Rogoiruwai scoring two tries before the half-time siren.

Spirits were high during the break, with encouraging words from coach Mathew Ferguson.

Though the Wodonga Wombats had managed to score 12 points in the rst half, the Knights had no issue maintaining the lead - Luke Ferguson scoring two tries, Ratul Saunikaya, Mathew Flewin, and Stephen Smith contributing one try each.

Dean Simmons converted four times, and Jacob Roberts Converting once in the nal minute of the game.

The match concluded with the Knights victorious, in a 46-12 score.

This coming Sunday, June 23, Wangaratta Knights will host the Hayden McIntosh Round against The Wolfpack at their home ground of Glenrowan Recreation Reserve.

Gates open at 9am.

NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Ten NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

Our Club offers specialist Basketball Clinics, as well as pathways through Senior Big V Competitions.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

George suffers another ACL injury

By WILLSON MACK

FORMER Wangaratta Rovers and luckless North Melbourne player Brayden George has su ered yet another injury setback.

ROUND RESULTS:

U14 Boys 1 41 def by Korumburra 1 88

(Top Scorers: O. Pigdon 14, C. Hueston 8, T. Thorp 8)

U14 Boys 2 55 def Keilor 6 45

(Top Scorers: N. Caccianiga 15, J. Kynnersley 14, X. Phillips 12)

U14 Girls 1 39 def by Korumburra 1 54

(Top Scorers: E. Hudgson 12, M. Hanley 8, M. Moscrop 8)

U14 Girls 2 25 def Diamond Valley 4 21

(Top Scorers: L. Nedelkovski 7, M. Tomkins 5, R. Pickles 5)

U16 Boys 1 62 def Frankston 1 41

(Top Scorers: S. Kain 19, L. Cashman 10, E. Ockenden 9)

U16 Boys 2 32 def by Collingwood 2 51

(Top Scorers: J. Kelly 10, A. KIpping 6, R, Casanova 6)

U16 Boys 3 76 def Geelong 7 28

(Top Scorers: I. Lacey 23, E. Damon 13, A. Richardson 12)

U16 Girls 1 48 def Western Port 1 41

(Top Scorers: E. Mercieca 17, M. Evans 8, E. Napier 7)

U16 Girls 2 40 def Broadmeadows 2 36

(Top Scorers: M. Watson 14, C. Campbell 7, P. Male 7)

U18 Boys 36 def by Melbourne 5 38

(Top Scorers: H. Pople 5, A. Button 5, R. Robinson 5)

The 20-year-old su ered the injury against Collingwood’s reserves at the AIA Centre on Sunday, with subsequent scans later in the day con rming the club’s George was dra ed to North Melbourne in 2022 and was in the midst of recovering from an ACL injury he sustained with the Murray Bushrangers in that

He then missed the majority of the last pre-season a er he dislocated his elbow in a freak gym accident and was forced to undergo

However, George was building nicely in 2024 having played six VFL games and was eyeing an AFL

But the former number 26 pick will now miss another 12 months as he recovers from a knee reconstruction on the same knee he injured

LUCKLESS: Former Wangaratta Rover Brayden George ruptured his ACL in North Melbourne’s VFL clash against Collingwood on Sunday.

Kangaroos

BEST: KANGAROOS: Ollie Reynolds, Kade Jackson, ollie kent, Sonny McCormack, Jamie Scheier, Eli Beach. IMPERIALS: Charlie Flynn, Harry Allen, Ryley Canning, Declan O’Sullivan, Archer Direen, Max Startin. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Edward Clayton 1. IMPERIALS: Declan O’Sullivan 4, Will Prebble 4, Kai McPhan 3, Archer Direen 2, Luke Griffiths 2, Marshall Semmens 2, Seth Ismale 1, Max Marek 1. Benalla

College 2.2 7.4 8.7 9.10.64

BEST: BENALLA: Logan Hyland, Ryder Levy, Xavier Rhodes, Josh Hart, Christian Squires, Josh Mathieson. COLLEGE: Harrison Bowman, Fraser Burgan, Christian Ashworth, Ryan Dillon, Lachlan Pensak, Harry Cook. GOALS: BENALLA: Josh Hart 2, Lucas Ham 1. COLLEGE: Christian Ashworth 2, Fraser Burgan 1, Ryan Dillon 1, Selby Doyle 1, Thomas Fieldew 1, Charlie Fitzgerald 1, Ayden Peebles 1, Sam Reid 1. Tigers 3.1 4.2 5.3 8.5.53 Centrals 5.2 8.4 13.8 15.10.100

Kangaroos

Imperials

BEST: KANGAROOS: Maddox Coleman, Mason Skermer, Hudson Wallace, Michael Sacco, Dael Johnston, Noah Gigliotti. IMPERIALS: Lomond Cumming, Wally Startin, Riley Mckay, Lenny Campbell, Luke Welch, Stanley South. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Isaac Chilcott 4, Archie Symons 4, Earnest Byrne 2, Noah Gigliotti 2, Jack Pople 2, Mason Skermer 2, Urban Holt 1, Dael Johnston 1, Mitchell Murphy 1. IMPERIALS: Wally Startin 1.

Benalla Red

College

BEST: BENALLA RED: Xavier De Fazio, Lucas Webster, Noah Hogan, Jack Pollard, Thomas Mount, Riley McCarthy. COLLEGE: Lenny Sims, Dominic Ciccone, Charlie OBrien, Cooper Bowman, Reegan Monk, Tom Hill. GOALS: COLLEGE: Lenny Sims 7, Dominic Ciccone 4, Luke OBrien 4, Cooper Bowman 1, Luke Dillon 1, Tom Hill 1, Reegan Monk 1, Charlie OBrien 1.

BEST: TIGERS: Xavier Sheldon, Marlon Togolo, Thomas Jones, Kobe Ackroyd, Blake Kantor, Zachariah Akers. CENTRALS: Nicholas Jones, Archie Knobel, Andrew Fraser, Noah Paul, Samuel Elkington, Beau Johns. GOALS: TIGERS: Kobe Ackroyd 1, Riley Webb 1, Austin Whitehead 1. CENTRALS: Liam Bennett 2, Seth Webster Mizzi 2, Ethan Cryer 1, Archie Knobel 1, Milla Wallace 1.

Benalla Black

6.1 8.3 9.3.57

BEST: TIGERS: Harvey Dodgshun, Oliver Mullane, Drew Winter, Lucas Webb, Jack Preston, Jacob Wickham. CENTRALS: Cooper Boman, Kaiden Wohlers, Connor Ormond, Hunter Barry, Hunter Fraser, Charlie Curr. GOALS: TIGERS: Mitchell Benton 2, Zack Carroll 1, Harvey Dodgshun 1, Archie Turner 1, Jake Wall 1, Lucas Webb 1, Drew Winter 1. CENTRALS: Charlie Curr 5, Ryan Parsons 2, Hunter Barry 1, Cooper Boman 1, Connor Breheny 1, Cohen Hazell 1, Jack Lewis 1, Reid McNamara 1, Solomon Steer 1, Kaiden Wohlers 1. Junior Magpies

Mansfield 2.3 6.3 6.4 10.8.68

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Lachlan Suffield, Charlie Miller, Lucas Sexton, Joel Comensoli, John Wohlers, Callum Bott. MANSFIELD: Noah Whittall, Liam Smith, Hayden Desmond, Andrew Friday, Jaxon McCormack, Edwin Morphett. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Joel Comensoli 3, Callum Bott 2, Cooper Allan 1, Riley Burrows 1, Mac Correll 1, Charlie Miller 1. MANSFIELD: Harry Craddock 3, Astin Browning 2, James Benton 1, Hayden Desmond 1, Samuel Kain 1, Edwin Morphett 1, Liam Smith 1. Bright

Myrtleford 0.0 1.1

BEST: BRIGHT: Ewan Lodge, Aidan Hargreaves, Otis Dalbosco, Aiden Toy, Harper Wilson, Lee Robinson. MYRTLEFORD: Jordyn Notarianni, Taj Cooper, Benjamin McMasters, Hudson Durling, Liam McManus, Zeke Menz. GOALS: BRIGHT: Ewan Lodge 4, Stefan Barnard 1, Bailey Brady 1, Tyson Brierty 1, Aidan Hargreaves 1, Hamish Johnston 1, Ryan Logan 1, Lee Robinson 1, Jack Thomson 1, Ethan White 1. MYRTLEFORD: Adam Morgan

Junior Magpies

BEST: BENALLA BLACK: Hugh Ross, Tom Osborne, Joshua Montgomery, Kobi Thwaites, Ryan White, Charlie Bell. JUNIOR MAGPIES: Jimi Pell, Lane Sloan, Maxwell James, Baxter McLeod, Dodge Lawrey, Lukas Cannata. GOALS: BENALLA BLACK: Joshua Byers 3, Ryder Humphries 2, Kobi Thwaites 1, Oliver Wardill 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: Sam McIntosh 3, Jimi Pell 3, Will James 2, Lane Sloan 2, Patrick Alker-Jones 1, Harry Allan 1, Archie Johnson 1. Mansfield Yellow

Mansfield Blue

BEST: MANSFIELD YELLOW: Toby Gerrans, Cooper Martin, Noah De Santis, William Benton, Macc Watson, Isaac Crowe. MANSFIELD BLUE: Jay Kynnersley, Archie Dunn, Gus Robinson, Noah Langlands, Reeve Purday, Billy Turner. GOALS: MANSFIELD YELLOW: Mitch Rossiter 1, Mitch Storer 1. MANSFIELD BLUE: Archie Dunn 3, Taj Kynnersley 3, Billy Turner 2, Bodhi Killeen 1, Gus Robinson 1. Bright vs Myrtleford - pending

LEG SPEED: Harvey Muraca tries to speed from the pack.

PRESSURE FOOTY: Angus Hines tries to lay a tackle on

Nine race card on show

By WILLSON MACK

THE Wangaratta Turf Club will stage a bumper nine race card tomorrow.

In what shapes as a cracking day of racing, the card features four maidens, two benchmark 58s and three benchmark 64s with plenty of gallopers ocking to the course.

Local trainers Andrew Dale, Ledger Racing, Ben Brisbourne, Dan McCarthy, Allen Fitzgerald and Chris Davis will all have runners in action.

Free entry will also be on o er with the Grand Oaks Room open as well.

Wangaratta Turf Club chief executive o cer Sean Barrett said

“It’s a good quality day of racing and a strong nine race card,” Barrett said.

“It’s been good to see plen-

ty of trainers support the race day and in particular we had strong nominations for the 1300m benchmark 58 so we split that race into two and created a ninth race..

“Overall nominations were probably a little bit down on what we’ve had previously but there’s still plenty of quality in the elds.”

A er a delayed start to the 2023/24 season due to upgrading the drainage of the track, the club were given three meetings in January and another four between May and July.

“The delayed start to the season meant we had a busy January and a busy end of season through winter,” Barrett said.

“Next season the schedule will go back to normal but we’re just grateful that the works didn’t impact the

LOCAL RACES: The Wangaratta Turf Club will host a nine race card tomorrow.

number of race days we got this season.

“We’ve got two race days to go before kicking next season o with our Mason Park Members Race Day.”

Along with a busy win-

ter of racing, the turf club has also held o cial trials which Barett said has subsequently a ected the track.

“The track has a little bit of wear from the busy few months, we’ve had trials as

MATCH REVIEWS

well as race days,” he said.

“But the track team has done a terri c job in getting the track to where it is now and it should race really well on Thursday.

“There’s a bit of rain fore-

casted for late Thursday so it’ll be really bene cial if the race day misses that.”

The Wangaratta Turf Club’s 2023/24 season will conclude with the Community Race Day on Saturday July 6.

The club will join forces with the Into Our Hands Foundation through a series of fundraising initiatives and donations from ticket sales to a cocktail-style event headlined by special guest and champion jockey Damien

“We’re looking forward to partnering with the Into Our Hands Foundation and hosting Damien Oliver for our last meeting of the season, he’s one of the greatest to ever sit in a saddle,” Barrett said.

“Hopefully we can get a good crowd there and send the season o in style.”

Bright making push for finals berth in O&K netball

By NATHAN DE VRIES

AFTER a strong run of form in re-

cent weeks, Bright’s A grade netball squad sits just one win out from the top six following their 49-36 win over Goorambat on Saturday.

Bright has been the biggest improver in the A grade standings from last year, having won just once in 2023.

Their improvement was on display at the Bat Cave on the weekend, when they took a seven-goal lead at quarter time which Goorambat pulled back to just ve by the half.

Bright showed their class in the third term, conceding just three goals and shooting 14 of their own to put the result beyond doubt.

“A really consistent four quarters was our main focus this week, and proved to be the biggest contributor to our win,” Bright co-coach Kate Buckley said.

“Bringing the ball down the court and transitioning into goals were our de nite strong points ,while the pressure across the entire court and rebounds in the ring also played a

huge role in securing the win.

“Ash Grimes and myself connected beautifully with Georgie Matters and Monique Martin feeding the ball into the ring really well.

“Defenders Molly Whitty and Ash Farmer fought hard all game and, with their strength and determination with rebounding, they were able to turn the ball over and bring it back down the court.”

Elsewhere, Greta belted the Hoppers 58-27 to push their undefeated streak in 2024 to 10 matches.

The reigning premiers looked in ne form in the second term when they only let four goals through their strong defensive end, while shooters Maddie Hill, Bridgette Lewis and Taylah Larkings ran riot under the post for the match.

Moyhu fought valiantly as the margin grew and grew through the third, but couldn’t match Greta’s pressure, class, and execution.

In other round 11 A grade matches, Milawa smashed Benalla 70-30, Tarrawingee held o a spirited King Valley 45-38, and Whorouly handed North Wangaratta a 61-28 drubbing.

Hit the winning run or just had a great day. Get a permanent reminder with

ON TOP: Loren McClounan and the Blue sit atop the A grade ladder with an unblemished 10-0 record.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Perpetual Tennis Challenge Cup was a hit with WDSS students

STUDENTS from Wangaratta District Specialist School and Wodonga Belvoir Specialist School took to the Wangaratta Hardcourts on Thursday, May 30 to test their skills and challenge each other in the pursuit of the perpetual Tennis Challenge Cup.

A er receiving funding from the Movement Disorder Foundation (MDF) to deliver tennis in both of their schools, the concept was developed in partnership with Tennis Victoria to create a fun tennis day for students from the schools to participate.

PE teacher from WDSS Catherine Lack said they had

17 students from their middle year participating with 15 students from Belvoir and the team from Tennis Victoria delivered two streams of tennis.

“(The model was) was fantastic as it was exible and adaptive for all of our students to participate,” she said.

“There was a red ball competition (singles and doubles) and fun activities on the other courts for those wanting to learn skills and not play competition.

“We had such a great day and can’t wait for next year to challenge Belvoir again for the tennis cup” Committee member of the

Wangaratta Hardcourts Maria Pulvirenti, was thrilled to have their club host the day.

“It was a pleasure to host the schools at our club for this great initiative, it was so much fun and we’re doing a lot of work as a club towards building an inclusive tennis community for everyone to be involved,” she said.

A er a great day of tennis, it was WDSS who came out on top, winning the day by just 53 points and proudly took the perpetual trophy back to their school.

In 2025, the Tennis Challenge Cup will be held in Wodonga for the schools to battle it out on the court.

Boomers blast Lady Devils

By NATHAN DE VRIES

WANGARATTA’S senior women’ side su ered a harrowing defeat at the hands of Boomers at home on Sunday in a highscoring contest 3-7.

The Lady Devils were eager to improve on their last encounter with Boomers, a 3-3 deadlock, but the top three side had other ideas.

Boomers carved through Wangaratta’s defensive structure and while not all of the chances made it past the goalie, enough did to secure the result.

It wasn’t all one way tra c, with Eleisha Baker, Charlotte Brundell and Georgia Mahoney nding the back of the net to give supporters something to cheer about.

The Lady Devils will need to bounce back quick and bring their best into their next match, a Thursday night showdown with top two side and league championship favourites Albury Hotspurs.

Undefeated from nine matches, Hotspurs are yet to have a goal scored on them in the 2024 league season, and will present a challenge for Wangaratta.

Thursday night’s match between Wangaratta City and Albury Hotspurs, making up their round nine xture, takes place at South Wangaratta from 6.45pm. It was a completely di erent result in the division two wom-

en’s match between the Lady Devils and Boomers Red, with the home side running out winners 5-0.

Katarina De Napoli and Sibel

Primerano were proli c up top, nishing with two goals apiece, while Samantha Scott pitched in to seal the result. The win sees the Lady Devils

close the gap on the top three in the division two women’s competition, trailing third placed Wodonga Diamonds White by six points.

Ivanov the match saver

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“We have a lot of core players out at the moment so we’ve had to ask some young guys to step up,” Molinaro said.

“Liam Cooper’s a 17-year-old that played well on the weekend and Kade Mitchell was also strong.

“Kade started the season as a goalkeeper but he played at right back on the weekend and showed a bit so it’s great to see young players trying to prove themselves.”

Even though the Devils languish at secondlast on the table, nals is still a possibility as they’re just three points o eighth place.

“We’ve just got to try and make nals and then go from there,” Molinaro said.

“If we can get there I have con dence we can push a few teams and give them a run for theirDevils money.

“So we just need to grind some results out on the back half of the season.”

The Devils now make the trip to Cobram on Sunday.

WANGARATTA ROVERS vs WODONGA RAIDERS

FANCY FOOTWORK: Ruby O’Kane maintains possession under pressure in Wangaratta’s 3-7 loss to Boomers.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

COMPETITIVE FUN: Students from Wangaratta District Specialist School and Wodonga Belvoir Specialist School battled it out on the court under Tennis Victoria’s supervision.

MATCH SAVER: Stoycho Ivanov scored in the dying seconds to give Wangaratta a 3-3 draw to Boomers.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

COUNTER ATTACK

AMY Holmes moves the ball from the Hoppers’ defensive end in Moyhu’s loss to Greta.

■ Story page 14

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Late Stoycho Ivanov goal sees Wangaratta City

WANGARATTA City fought back from 1-3 down to play out a 3-3 draw against the highly touted Boomers at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday.

A Stoycho Ivanov equaliser in the nal 10 seconds of the game saw the Devils take a point against the third-placed Boomers.

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

A er a poor 1-5 loss to Albury United in their previous encounter, the Devils sparked up against the third-placed Boomers with Mason Taylor and Raul Pahina also scoring.

Wangaratta City coach Ra Molinaro was happy with the result.

“It was good to come back late, it showed some character,” Molinaro said.

“We were 2-0 down and then we went to 3-1 down so it was a big e ort to come back and speaking to the boys a er the game it felt like a win.

“A er a few tough losses this season we’ll take a result like that, especially against a strong team like Boomers.”

While the Devils have won just the two games this season, they’ve shown they can push top sides with close losses to the top three sides in Myrtleford, Albury United and now Boomers.

“It’s easy to look at the table and results and think that we’re struggling but we’ve tested most sides we’ve played,” Molinaro said.

“I know the type of side we can be but we just don’t see games out for di erent reasons but we de nitely believe we can compete with top teams.

“It takes character and belief to push the sides we’ve been pushing so it’s great to see our players still cracking in.”

Wangaratta was without a number of key players with Tom Humphries, Alex Pitt, Elijah Royal and Joel McGenniskan all missing on the weekend.

■ Continued page 15