Wangaratta Chronicle 190723

CATHEDRAL RESTORATION IS COMPLETE

MORE TREES AXED

Council to remove another dozen gum trees posing public danger in Merriwa Park gpgpg

A SERIES of falling tree events in Wangaratta’s Merriwa Park has triggered the planned removal of up to a dozen “high to extreme risk” gum trees from the area.

Four large gum trees have fallen in the park since September last year with flooding in the park last month prompting its closure until problem trees are removed and the area is classified as safe.

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Merriwa Park was previously closed and then reopened last December after an arborist’s report deemed the tree risk as “Broadly Acceptable” (<1 in 1,000,000).

However, since then,

persistent rainfall has contributed to the park’s high ground water table, which affects the stability of the trees’ root systems, with a large gum falling on July 5.

Council has undertaken and commissioned several internal and external risk assessments leading to the recommendation to remove up to 12 red gum trees within the boundary of the park,

and habitat pruning several others.

A tree is considered high risk if it contains a defect that will likely result in failure and, if it is in line of a potential target, such as people, infrastructure, or property, likely to be harmed in the case of failure.

Wangaratta Landcare & Sustainability (WLS) president Russell Sully said the

organisation holds Merriwa Park and Kaluna Island in very high regard and although they are concerned, they agree that some of the old red gums pose a risk to people’s safety.

“The Urban Landcare Care group who are now an important part of WLS have conducted rehabilitation and revegetation of Kaluna Park for over 25 years and

we highly value the whole Merriwa Park reserve,” Mr Sully said.

“We are concerned but accept that some of the old red gums need to be removed to minimise the risks to people using the park.

“We see these large red gums as important character defining trees within Wangaratta that are hard to replace.

■ Continued page 2

JAMES McAuley from Cathedral Stone yesterday completed the prolonged replacement of five crosses atop St Patrick’s Catholic Church, which were damaged in the 2021 earthquake.

Full story page 2

PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

A star on A on the rise

Premier pulls pin on Games

THE Victorian Government has pulled the pin on hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2026.

Premier Daniel Andrews made the shock announcement yesterday blaming a blowout in the cost to Victorian taxpayers to more than $6 billion – more than twice the estimated economic benefit the Games would bring to the state.

“When the Commonwealth Games needed a host city to step in at the last minute, we were willing to help – but not at any price, and not without a big lasting

benefit for regional Victoria,” Mr Andrews said in a statement.

“The government has advised the CGF and Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) that the state will be terminating the Host Agreement.

“It is our aim to reach a rapid and amicable resolution of all contractual matters, including a reasonable settlement of costs incurred, to allow the CGF the opportunity to seek an alternative host city for 2026.”

Premier Andrews said this decision not to proceed

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

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came before any major building and supply contracts have been signed, meaning costs incurred to date have been relatively contained and promised those costs will be publicly disclosed once negotiations are complete.

The State Government had spruiked the Games as a positive investment as it would deliver “lasting benefits in housing, tourism and sporting infrastructure for regional Victoria”.

Premier Andrews said the government would stick to its commitment to deliver

a $2 billion package to ensure regional Victoria still receives all the benefits that would have been facilitated by the games.

He also announced a new $1 billion Regional Housing Fund to deliver more than 1300 new homes across regional Victoria, a mix of social and affordable housing - which was welcomed by Rural Councils Victoria.

There will be a new $150 million Regional Tourism and Events Fund and Premier Andrews said all the permanent new and

upgraded sporting infrastructure projects planned as part of the Games will still proceed and be completed as planned.

There will also be a new $60 million Regional Community Sport Development Fund to deliver new projects – including aquatic centres, indoor stadiums, lighting upgrades and walking and cycling paths, and $40 million for an All Abilities Sport Fund to remove the barriers of entry for people with a disability to get involved in sports through grants, scholarships and mentoring.

Further detail of the $2 billion regional package will be revealed after consultation with sporting codes, councils, tourism bodies and the community.

Commonwealth Games Australia chief executive officer, Craig Phillips AM, said the government’s “beyond disappointing” decision came without any advanced notice, disputing the cost over runs as a “gross exaggeration”, and suggesting the decision “jeopardised Melbourne and Victoria’s standing as a sporting capital of the world”.

Cathedral cross restoration complete

By SIMONE KERWIN

FIVE stone crosses damaged during 2021’s earthquake have now been replaced atop Wangaratta’s St Patrick’s Catholic Church.

The Ford Street church, which in May was the centre of celebrations to mark the 160th anniversary of establishment of a Catholic parish in Wangaratta, was the rural city’s most visibly-affected structure in the wake of the 5.9 magnitude earthquake that rattled Victoria in September, 2021.

Three of the damaged crosses were replaced in early May by Melbourne firm Cathedral Stone, which had initially been engaged to restore four crosses and discovered while replacing the first three that a fifth was in need of attention.

It has also carried out work on the church’s pinnacles.

James McAuley from Cathedral Stone said the company had engaged a geologist to help match the Warby Range granite originally used on the church, as this was no longer accessible from the national park.

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He said another type of granite had been employed to complete the crosses.

Council to remove another dozen gum trees in Merriwa Park

■ From page 1 “They are many hundred years old and provide important shade, shelter and native habitat.

“A number of trees in the urban green spaces also provide important cultural heritage links to our first nations people, in particular the Bpangerang community.”

Acting Mayor Harry Bussell said he understands that the gum trees are much loved during the summer for their provision of shade, but urges those divided on the issue to consider the potential risk.

‘’Over the past 12 months, we have seen four large gum trees fall in Merriwa Park,” he said.

“Luckily these have fallen without any impact to people walking in the park, or to local infrastructure.

“We have also had to relocate events from the park including the ball.

“Some of the existing trees pose a continued risk to the community that is unacceptable, which cannot reasonably be minimised to a tolerable level, and therefore their

removal is warranted.

“This is not something we wanted to do but an operational decision was made by officers based on council adopted policies and risk.

“The change in risk rating is due mainly due to extended periods of high-water table in Merriwa Park and is it clear now from the arborist’s assessments that some trees now should be removed.”

A long-term strategic plan is being developed to continue replacing the mature trees, as opportunity presents, due to the role that the trees play as habitat for local wildlife and in the environment for open lawn picnic areas.

Community input will be sought on the plan’s development.

Marcus Goonan, director community and infrastructure, said as council removes mature trees, the surrounding ground will be affected.

“Remaining trees will be further exposed to elements and environmental factors that previ-

ously they may not have been exposed to, wind being the biggest influence,” he said.

‘’This may cause instability and may impact the retention of the remaining trees; these impacts may not be seen for many years.

‘’There are many tree species, exotic and native, that are better suited for a wetter environment.

“Merriwa Park having a highwater table makes plant selection important as no amount of engineering will eliminate the water table, so species selection should focus on trees that can thrive in a flooded environment’.”

Council said it welcomes the opportunity to work with the community on the potential uses of the hardwood of the removed trees.

A community engagement project will be ignited relating to this topic, in due course, and Cr Bussell encourages everyone to have their say.

“The potential is endless for the use of the harvested wood, floorboards, park benches, or even art-

work,” Cr Bussell said.

“It would be great to see the wood get used in a place where future generations could enjoy it’.”

Works will commence on the removal of affected tress in the coming weeks and residents in the surrounding area will be informed of potential noise.

The WLS met with Mr Goonan and manager infrastructure planning and delivery Marsha McMonigle last week to discuss the tree management in Merriwa Park and progress with redesigning the levee bank upgrade.

“WLS looks forward to participating in ongoing discussion about the tree replacement plans with the city so that a long term satisfactory outcome can be reached that balances utilisation of the park with management of the natural ecosystem,” Mr Sully said.

“We support the council retaining the timber from the trees which need to be removed so they can create a long term cultural benefit to the community.”

SCALING THE HEIGHTS: Scaffolding was erected to enable the completion of restoration works atop St Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Funding cut to North East road safety body

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

A FUNDING cut to the North East’s peak road safety body is expected to reduce its community activities over the next 12 months.

Road Safe North East will receive approximately $75,000 to fund its community road safety programs in the 2023/24 financial year, down from around $88,000 the previous year.

The funding for the notfor-profit organisation was announced by Minister for Roads and Roads Safety Melissa Horne last Friday, as one of 90 recipients across the state to share in $1.5 million through the State Government’s Community Road Safety Grants Program.

Road Safe North East executive officer John Weinert said this was the first time the body’s funding had been cut, and it will have an impact.

“It’s disappointing, as this is the majority of our funding...most years it’s our only funding, although occasionally we may get some funding from the TAC or Department of Justice,” he said.

“We understand there has been around a 20 per cent cut across the board, so

we’re not the only ones affected.

“What concerns us though is that with the rising road toll, why would you be looking at cutting funding to road safety?

“We’ve seen a rise in dangerous behaviour on the roads post-COVID, and given the state of some of our roads, more rather than less, needs to be done.

“For us, less funding means we’ll have to cut back and do less of some of the things we usually do.”

Road Safe North East’s programs with professional presenters include bike safety education in primary schools, road and dirt bike training, learner driver and young driver sessions and public awareness campaigns on driver distraction.

Mr Weinert said bike safety education, which was delivered in 35 primary schools in 2022/23, wouldn’t be cut.

“We will keep all our programs, such as the ‘Looking After Your Mates’ learner/ young driver program in secondary schools, but the frequency may be reduced,” he said.

“Certainly we’ll have less

money to support other organised public events.”

Minister Horne said this year’s grants program supported more than 250 initiatives to deliver targeted education programs to tackle road safety issues, in support of the state’s aim to halve roads deaths and reduce serious injuries by 2030 and eliminate road deaths by 2050.

By RYAN MALCOLM

FIREFIGHTERS have deemed a house fire in Wangaratta suspicious, after an Oliver Court home caught fire in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said firefighters were called to the residential address around 4.30am, and found the home “involved” in fire.

The home’s four occupants were able to evacuate the address and were not injured.

CFA crews and police officers were also in attendance, with the blaze brought under control in little more than 10 minutes.

The scene was deemed suspicious and handed over to police for further investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has information or footage of the blaze, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or lodge an anonymous report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

Hole in maintenance funding: “pothole epidemic”

By RYAN MALCOLM

NORTH East politicians have called for additional funding to address a “pothole epidemic” impacting major roads throughout the region in the wake of recent wet weather.

Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy recently pointed to a road maintenance budget which has been “slashed” by 45 per cent since 2020, while Benambra MP Bill Tilley called on VicRoads to lower its threshold for compensation to motorists whose vehi-

cles were damaged on major roads.

Regional Roads Victoria crews undertook repair works on potholes in Rowan Street last week, as part of a “repair blitz” expected to take place across the region in the coming weeks.

Department of Transport and Planning Hume regional director Steve Bowmaker said crews had repaired a large number of potholes across Northern Victoria in recent months, while undertaking significant road patching and resurfacing works in the region.

“Safety is always our first priority, which is why our crews regularly monitor and inspect roads across our entire network,” he said.

“Several potholes along Rowan Street, Wangaratta have been repaired by our crews in recent days, with plans for more repairs also underway.”

Mr McCurdy said it appeared potholes were appearing across the North East “faster than ever before”, and urged locals to contact the State Government to shine a light on the quality of roads in the region in an effort to in-

crease maintenance funding.

Some $2.8b was pledged to road maintenance and renewal across Victoria as part of the 2023/24 state budget to be implemented over the next decade, a figure Mr McCurdy said was falling behind the current demand.

“I encourage locals to stay vigilant on the roads, make sure to drive to the conditions of the road, as not doing so can cost more than just money,” Mr McCurdy said.

“We have seen the road death toll skyrocket this year, which we need to remember is not just a statistic, but peo-

ple and their families being impacted.”

VicRoads’ current threshold for property damage caused by its roads sits at $1580, a figure which Mr Tilley believes needs to be reduced, even temporarily, to address the damages incurred by North East motorists.

“Highways and major arterials under the guardianship of the state are failing- potholes are literally everywhere,” he said.

“The damage to vehicles has been extensive, I think these circumstances demand the threshold be reviewed,

perhaps even dropped for the time being.

“People are calling, emailing, sending photos – one spent $2800 on repairs, a pensioner had a $561 bill and of course didn’t get to the threshold for compensation, another person had to hire a car after theirs was left undriveable.

“We all live here, we all know it’s been wet but that’s no excuse, it’s been wet before.

“Motorists are suffering blowouts travelling at 100kph, they’re crossing lines to avoid potholes on the crest of a hill – I genuinely fear a serious accident unless we get action.”

Oliver Court blaze deemed suspicious, police are investigating

FUNDING CUT: Road Safe North East executive officer John Weinert says less funding will mean less activities.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Celebrating our native cultures

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

BY ANITA McPHERSON

FAMILIES, friends and members of the local Indigenous community turned out for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) celebrations, held at GOTAFE in Docker Street on Saturday.

The annual event hosted by the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network in partnership with the Rural City of Wangaratta featured over 14 exhibitors this year, showcasing a wide range of service providers to the indigenous community, along with cultural experiences, demonstrations and entertainment.

Department of Planning and Community Development indigenous community development broker, Darren Moffitt, said the three hour event was jam-packed with activities which captivated the crowd.

“The two screenings of a Short film telling the story of elder Aunty Betty, a member of the stolen generation, was by far the most popular, with more than 70 people watching” said Mr Moffitt.

“The crowd surged in around lunchtime too with the smell of food wafting around the place, when

Uncle Wally started cooking emu, kangaroo and crocodile.”

Four elders from the local indigenous community attended the event, which also featured a display of local indigenous history by Rhonda Diffey, an artifact display and interactive workshop by the North East Catchment Management Authority, and live music by the band, True Country.

While Mr Moffitt said the event had once again attracted a diverse mix of community members, he hoped more members of the local

Have your say in state education inquiry

PUBLIC submissions are now open to a parliamentary inquiry reviewing Victoria’s state education system.

Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley state MP, Tim McCurdy, is urging everyone to have their say.

“As legislators, as elected members of parliament, it has been a long time – in fact almost 20 years – since there was a deep dive into the education system in Victoria,” Mr McCurdy said.

indigenous community would participate in the celebration, and organisers would consider what they could do to make the event more accessible for them.

“We’d like to see more people from the indigenous community of Wangaratta and surrounding regions get interested, engaged and involved in Naidoc celebrations,” Mr Moffitt said.

“It only comes around once a year, and it is all about celebrating our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.”

Your place to feel good.

“The breadth of this inquiry really focuses on student learning outcomes – let us put Victorian students at the centre of this inquiry – and student wellbeing, mental health, and engagement.

“Also, very importantly, let us look at the state of teaching in Victoria – the teacher workforce, the professional development and teacher retention.

“It is important to unpack the issues in terms of listening to people in the field – to teachers and educators, to principals and school leaders, to school coun-

cils and, importantly, to parents and past and present students.”

Public submissions to the inquiry close on Friday, October 13.

A report to parliament with findings and recommendations for government is due by June 25, 2024.

To make a submission go to https://new.parliament.vic. gov.au/get-involved/inquiries/ stateeducationinquiry/submissions/

HAVE YOU SAY: Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy is encouraging locals to make a submission in the latest parliamentary inquiry.

CELEBRATE: Aboriginal health care worker (left) Kim Moffitt, from Ovens and King Health, with (right) Chris Thorne. PHOTOS: Luke Plummer

Celebration of the

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

FROM bushwalks, courthouses and hill climbs, civil marriage celebrants have experienced it all in order to pronounce a wedding.

Before July 19, 1973, marriages were the domain of the Christian churches or the state registry offices, until Attorney General Lionel Murphy agreed with the activists and consequently secularised Marriage Law in Australia, giving way to the first appointment of civil celebrants.

Today marks a celebration of the celebrant, with the 50th anniversary of civil marriage celebrants in Australia.

At the beginning of the program only three per cent of weddings were civil; now according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, celebrants perform more than 80 per cent of all marriages.

North East celebrant and Eldarado local, Roxanne Bodsworth, has been wedding locals for the past nine years, after performing funerals and naming ceremonies.

“I had been doing funerals for people for a long time and that’s work that’s really special to me, but there were families that I had developed connections with through

the funerals who were then having weddings and naming ceremonies within the family,” she said.

“I had that connection with them as their celebrant so it was nice to be able to share those occasions with them.

“It gives people more control of what they actually want to include in it, they can still include religious content

if they want but they can also do it however they want.”

While Dr Bodsworth was made to wait three years after completing her certificate of civil ceremonies to perform weddings due to appointment per capita requirements, there is now more freedom in applying as a celebrant.

There are now 10,000 registered civil celebrants in

Australia, which Dr Bodsworth said has created a greater extent of freedom in marriage celebration.

“You can be very creative, I do bare bone ceremonies that can just be what has to be done and then it’s about the celebration afterwards for them,” she said.

“With the same sex marriages now they really do mean a great deal to the cou-

ples and have it recognised in that way.

“There’s so much variety in it, you have different cultures coming together and that always gets really interesting for how this works and making sure everybody feels included in a way.”

Through COVID-19 was made to be even more flexible with her profession than usual, including an experi-

ence with a local couple who were forced to change venues and dates four times to get married, including a very last minute cancellation at Apex Park.

Dr Bodsworth said wineries, family properties, bushwalks and breathtaking views have been just some of her most memorable experiences while in the unique profession.

“I had a memorable one in the Beechworth courthouse where the couple and the bridal party stood up behind the judges table; the family were all in the jury box and the rest of the guests were in the gallery so that was a lot of fun,” she said.

“There was a very special one in Yackandandah where the ceremony took place on four different spots on the property, it was a real journey through it and each time we moved to the next spot it was a different part of the ceremony and encompass their whole life together.

“You get to meet a really diverse range of people and everybody has a completely different story of how they got together and it’s always really lovely to hear that.”

Dr Bodsworth said she would gather with a close knit community of celebrants in the region to celebrate the anniversary, a well earned toast to the toastmakers.

JOYOUS WEDDINGS: Roxanne Bodsworth (above right) marries Jess and Todd Matthews at their medieval wedding ceremony at Porepunkah, the day before Jess gave birth to her baby boy; marrying Joe and Liarna Useini (right) in the Woolshed Valley; and officiating at Erin and James Huddle’s wedding at a cricket ground in Strath Creek.

Scrapping of games the responsible call

THE Commonwealth Games will not take place in Victoria and the pub test regionally is leaning towards that it’s the right decision by the State Government, albeit embarrassing.

Like with everything else in the current economic climate a cost blowout was likely, by up to an estimated $4.4 billion, according to Premier Daniel Andrews.

The State Government was noble in wanting to include some regional areas in its plan to have the whole state involved, however, the cost to do this appears part of the reason for the surge in expense.

The government indicates that the decision to scrap the Games was also prior to any major supply and building contracts being signed. We’ll see.

The debt levels for the state are at record levels following the pandemic and this aspect was on many people’s minds when Victoria as the Games host was announced in April last year.

It’s been well documented that the Commonwealth and Olympic games have in the past cost state and countries financially and aside from new infrastructure, the tourism benefits have often fallen short compared to realised economic returns.

There are people and organisations upset about the announcement, especially those connected to the sports which compete at the international event, however, there are more pressing issues in our society such as housing affordability and roads, where the money would be better spent.

A $2 billion package will remain for regional Victoria, including a $1b Regional Housing Fund to deliver more than 1300 new homes across the regions.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Australian QuizNo.33

1 In 2022, who had a hit with the song, First Class?

(a) Jack Harlow

(b) Harry Styles

(c) Justin Bieber

(d) The Kid Laroi

2 Traditionally, pewter consists mainly of which chemical element?

(a) Antimony

(b) Lead

(c) Zinc

(d) Tin

3 In 2022, Errol Spence Jr. became a three-title unified world champion in which boxing weight division?

(a) Super featherweight

(b) Lightweight

(c) Welterweight

(d) Middleweight

4 Who co-starred with Edward Furlong in the 1998 movie, American History X?

(a) Bradley Cooper

(b) Ben Affleck

(c) Leonardo DiCaprio

(d) Edward Norton

5 The Thar Desert is also known as the what?

(a) Aussie Dust Bowl

(b) Great Omani Desert

(c) Great Indian Desert

(d) China Divide

Safety paramount for region’s farmers

IT’S National Farm Safety Week, which is the perfect time for local primary producers to prioritise their health and wellbeing.

Having owned and run a dairy farm I understand the multiple safety risks faced by primary producers and the vigilance needed to maintain health and wellbeing of farmers, their families, employees, contractors and visitors.

Our agriculture workers face many physical and mental pressures each and every day.

Farms are often among Australia’s most dangerous workplaces, with 55 people losing their lives on farms in 2022.

Farm machinery accidents involving tractors and quad bikes dominate the statistic, making up 40 per cent of all farm fatalities.

Given the importance of the work farmers do, promoting safety, assessing risk, identifying, and talking about the dangers of farm work is an important conversation worth having.

Tim McCurdy, MP for Ovens Valley

Many Australians with a rich ancestry

THE interesting letter by Jane Baker (Wangaratta Chronicle, July 14) in response to my letter needs some fact checking.

Firstly, First Nations people gained the right to vote by Commonwealth legislation in 1962, hence were eligible to vote in 1967. Our migration to Australia was more or less by invitation.

We were stateless refugees in an Austrian refugee camp where a representative of Australia signed us up.

As far as I can determine my great, great grandfather Stecher met my great, great grandmother, Anna Tábor, a Hungarian, whilst plying his trade up and down the Danube. Their descendants were Hungarian speaking Hungarians.

Of course the German name was passed down the male side.

Doing a bit of family research revealed that we are a typical cocktail of middle Europe, a mixture of Hungarian, German, Slav, Turkish and probably a dash of North East Asian. As for the 300,000 year culture it started when our common Homo Sapience ancestors emerged from the Rift Valley of Africa and spread, populated and fought their way through Africa, Europe and Asia mixing far and wide and inevitably spread-

6 In HTML, what colour is represented by the hex triplet, #000000?

(a) Black

(b) White

(c) Red

(d) Blue

7 Tom Rockliff played over 150 games for which AFL team during his career?

(a) Sydney Swans

(b) Port Adelaide Power

(c) Collingwood Magpies

(d) Brisbane Lions

8 Kobe, one of Japan’s largest cities, is located on which island?

(a) Honshu

(b) Kyushu

(c) Shikoku

(d) Hokkaido

9 The Terminal Man is one of the best-known novels by which author?

(a) Stephen King

(b) Ray Bradbury

(c) Robert A. Heinlein

(d) Michael Crichton

10

What was the wellknown nickname of the first prime minister of Australia?

(a) Black Jack

(b) Toby Tosspot

(c) The Little Digger

(d) Pig Iron Bob

SAFE CROSSING: A sturdy new railing is now in place over Jessie’s Creek at Gentle Annie Lane in Whitfield. Commissioned by the Rural City of Wangaratta and completed last week, it replaces a damaged timber railing and hazard tape which has been in place since the 2010/11 floods.

ing human culture.

It was around the 250,000 year mark that the First Nations people headed south and found themselves, unchallenged, in a new continent.

And finally the 11 First Nations parliamentarians should represent all their constituents, true, however this should not stop them from using their first-hand knowledge of their peoples’ plight and speak on their behalf as well.

They have the protection of parliament, the ear of the press and the ear of parliament, and as demonstrated in 1967, the good will of the majority of Australians.

Gabriel Stecher, Devenish

Sorry state of roads a statewide problem

AFTER just returning from a trip to Port Fairy, we found the roads absolutely disgusting, with very dangerous potholes.

We travelled from Lorne to Port Fairy via the coast road, and it took us six hours.

The speed limits were on average, 40kph, and if not, that was the maximum speed one can take.

The only good thing about that was, fuel

consumption was down to eight litres per one hundred kms.

The return trip was on the Princess Freeway, which was better, however, there were many large potholes along there too.

Cars had to swerve away from the road damage, which caused many near accidents.

Our State Government spends large amounts on many projects, but surely it is time to try and save lives by repairing the most important form of our travel that we all take, our roads.

David Lawson, Wangaratta

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(d) Michael Crichton

(b) Toby Tosspot

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

Developing our local leaders

BY SIMONE KERWIN

FOUR locals have been chosen for the new round of a program aimed at encouraging women to develop their leadership potential ahead of next year’s local government elections.

Rural City of Wangarattabased Jennifer Garrett, Celine Forster, Rebecca Shenfield and Allison Winters are among 65 women participating in the second wave of the Women Leading Locally program, which forms part of Victoria’s focus on achieving gender equality in local government.

The 65 people selected are drawn from across the state, with a focus on regions where women are underrepresented on council.

Those selected also represent other historically under-represented groups, including Aboriginal women, young women, culturally and linguistically diverse women, women living with a disability, and women who identify as LGBTQI+

They follow 60 participants, including two from the local area, who took part in the program’s first year and will graduate next month.

As well as developing leadership skills, Women Leading Locally is designed to provide ongoing connections, mentoring, and motivation for participants to campaign in the 2024 local government elections.

On completion of the program, which is being delivered by the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA) in partnership with Women for Election, participants will be eligible to receive a Certificate in Community Leadership and Governance (Local Government).

Rebecca Shenfield said she intended to stand in the 2024 Rural City of Wangaratta elections.

With a town planning and emergency management background, and experience working in both local and

state government, she feels she could use her knowledge and skills to advocate for her community.

Rebecca moved to the North East with her husband and two young daughters pre-COVID, bringing forward a long-held intention to retire here due to the family’s love of the region.

She has enjoyed slotting into the community, and is enjoying the chance to further hone her skills through Women Leading Locally.

“I think it’s very important to encourage women to develop their leadership skills,” she said.

“When I look back on the reasons I haven’t stood for council previously, it’s always been because of jug-

gling family and career.

“This program gives us an opportunity to see that you can have it all, and it doesn’t have to be at the cost of something else.

“It’s breaking down some of those barriers.

“I’m hoping this program will encourage other people from diverse groups, such as people of colour and those from the LGBTIQ+ community, to stand for council.”

Allison Winters has also decided to stand for election in 2024, and is looking forward to the challenge.

“I was asked if I would stand at the 2020 elections, but I said no because I felt at the time that I was still getting to know the community,” Allison said.

“Now, with LINE (LGBTIQ+ in the North East) Wangaratta and all the different roles I have had, I feel I can provide a diverse voice in decision-making.

“I feel really glad to be included in the program, and I look forward to developing a more diverse network over coming months, and meeting lots of different people in the community.

“I’m looking forward to being challenged and having some great conversations.

“This is such a great group of people, and they are all really supportive.”

Jennifer Garrett, who stood for Rural City of Wangaratta council in 2020, said she would again consider standing at the 2024 elec-

tions, and was looking forward to building her confidence and skills through Women Leading Locally.

She said she was impressed by the range of topics covered by the program, with the first two sessions looking at values and governance, and upcoming discussions set to include a focus on the use of social media.

Jennifer has also enjoyed the chance to be exposed to the stories of other women in leadership, including Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp, and said she had found their experiences inspirational.

Over the course of the program, she said she would decide whether to again put

her hand up for council.

“The reason I stood in 2020 was that I felt I had something to offer, and that someone needs to stand up,” she said.

“I bring a different perspective.

“I brought a lot from my earlier life (as a journalist) to raising my children, and I think there is a lot from raising my children that I could bring to council.

“It would also be a chance to give a voice to rural small business owners.

“I don’t pretend to be an expert, but I can listen, and I think I could offer my communication skills.”

Like Rebecca and Allison, Celine Forster has already made the decision to stand for council in 2024, and is looking forward to using what she gathers from the Women Leading Locally course not only in her campaign, but in her role as a teacher.

“I’ve got a really broad range of experience across the community sector,” she said.

“My passion is community growth, and communities being led by mindfulness and doing our best to work collaboratively.

“I have had little bits to do on a volunteer basis in the Rural City of Wangaratta and now, coming out of COVID and as my children are a little bit older, I can take on more of a role.”

Celine said she was enjoying the chance to spend time with other women who are passionate and driven to support their communities, and to be part of the supportive environment provided by the program.

Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne said the Women Leading Locally program was “equipping fantastic women with the skills and resources they need to best put their case for election to their local council”.

“It is important that councils are representative of the communities they serve. Gender equality is an essential part of achieving this aim,” Minister Horne said.

skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

ALLISON WINTERS

CELINE FORSTER

REBECCA SHENFIELD

JENNIFER GARRETT

UNDERCOVER: Taking shelter in a hut at camp were students Mark Henschke, Maddie Newman, Marley Higham, Hayden Boyle, Ryan VanDerPoel, Dare Williams, Zara Cagas and Lewis Jones.

Camp adventure

Wangaratta Primary School

STUDENTS in year 5/6 kicked off the last week of term two with a school camp to Upper Plenty Conference Centre near Whittlesea.

Students, staff and parent helpers had blast of a time and although cold, the rain held off as students enjoyed an array of activities from horse riding, laser tag in the bush, tube sliding, camp cooking, rock climbing, geocaching, team building challenges and archery.

CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT: Students

Play and learn

Carraragarmungee Primary School

STUDENTS have been enjoying play-based learning. They were exploring patterns, shape and developing social skills, such as sharing, help-seeking and friendshipbuilding. We are very proud of their creations and development of social norms.

Earn and learn

Appin Park Primary School

YEAR 5/6 students are learning about the real world, undertaking an Earn and Learn quest.

ACTIVE LEARNING: Students Millie Norden, Bryce Howard and Judd Solimo enjoy a hopscotch created using skip counting.

All adding up

Wangaratta West Primary School

AFTER a two week school holiday break, grade one students were excited to get back to learning in their classroom.

They are currently learning how to skip count in maths.

The students applied their skip counting knowledge to create hopscotches, counting by 2s, 5s or 10s.

DOWN TO BUSINESS: Students Lilly Hayward, Logan Fraser and Imogen Rocchiccioli worked hard on their application letters as part of the Earn and Learn quest.

Students must write application letters to apply for either government jobs, such as deputy mayor or treasurer, or bank manager, bank teller or resources minister; or to have the opportunity to run their own business, such as a sport stores, hardware, electrical and toy stores, a pet shop, a cinema and clothing and jewellery stores. Students will participate in interview settings and rent space in the room (and pay for that privilege).

Some students have paid a higher rental price for a well sought after location, but will they have enough to pay for insurances, or will they risk a catastrophe happening?

Income and deductions will be a focus for all students and keeping a record of their own bank account.

The challenge is for the students to understand what is ahead of them, how to manage their own money, spending wisely and saving what they can.

There are potentially some young entrepreneurs in the making.

1

True or false? Hippopotamuses have a special, red coloured sweat that acts as a sunscreen.

2What is a rain shadow? Is it a) the darkness when storm-clouds pass across the Sun, b) an area of dry land downwind of a mountain or c) a secondary rain shower triggered by an earlier heavy storm?

What kind of scientist would study a gluon?

3

4

Which of the following is a bromeliad? Is it a) a bat, b) a pineapple, c) a butterfly or d) a piece of coal?

selves around and to produce ‘mussel glue’, which helps keep the mussel to stay in the one spot.

tain. For example, the Gobi Desert is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. 3. Physicists study gluons. Gluons are tiny particles that are part of the protons and neutrons inside atoms. 4. b) Pineapples are bromeliads. The bromeliads are a family of flowering plants native to the Americas. 5. Mussels have one foot. They use their single foot to push them-

ANSWERS: 1. True! Scientists collected and analysed a red secretion from hippopotamus skin and found the ‘sweat’ may act as a sunscreen, as well as an antibiotic. 2. b) A rain shadow is an area of dry land downwind of a moun-

QUIZ

For more CSIRO

Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or call 02 6276 6643.

5

How many feet does a mussel have?

George Wilson, Adrian Williams-Seymour, Jarrah Waldhart, Jimmy Niklaus, Mason Webbers and Archy Nottingham are learning important skills through play.

Preserving wetlands diversity

AUSTRALIANS need to appreciate the importance of wetlands having both wet and dry periods to provide healthy habitat for different species, the Winton Wetlands Science Forum 2023 was told last month.

Much of the diversity of wildlife on Australian wetlands and other parts of the country were a result of the extreme variations provided by natural rainfall and weather cycles, attendees were told.

Dr Max Finlayson, a wetland scientist and chair of Winton Wetlands’ environmental advisory panel, told guests that a deeper understanding of wet and dry cycles

could bring benefits to land managers of all kinds.

“There are large opportunities [for wetland scientists] to work with private landholders to manage wetlands and conserve their biodiversity and ensure they benefit from the many ecosystem services they provide for humans,” he said.

Another speaker, Professor Peter Gell of Federation University, told the forum there was a wide variety of ‘natural’ conditions for Australian wetlands, and this often made them quite different to many of their counterparts in other countries.

“Not only do we need to relish

the times when they are wet and waterbirds and fish are breeding, we also need to appreciate that healthy wetlands are sometimes shallow or even dry, and this is part of the natural pattern of variability,” he said.

Forum organiser Lance Lloyd, an aquatic ecologist, said the international ‘Ramsar’ agreement on protection of important wetlands was significant, not just as a way to get international listing but as a tool to promote the importance of protecting wetlands and making wise use of them.

The Winton Wetlands committee of management was pressing

on with its own efforts to achieve a Ramsar listing for Winton Wetlands, as other Australian wetlands including Kakadu had done already.

Other speakers at the science forum talked about further aspects of the work currently under way to help Australian wetlands achieve more international recognition.

The Winton Wetlands committee of management has hosted the annual forum for the past eight years - with COVID interruptions - to share its deepening hands-on experience, and to help create effective professional networks for knowledge sharing and cooperation.

Benefiting from online health platform

REGIONAL and remote Australians will benefit from an upgraded online platform connecting people to medical services through a simple search engine, helping those outside metro areas access and navigate the complex health care system.

The Healthdirect Service Finder helps almost 800,000 people a month find and book care providers, with information on more than 300,000 health services including 8000 Covid-19 vaccine and 7900 flu vaccination clinics.

The refreshed digital tool is now available in 16 languages and incorporates the retired ‘Vaccine Clinic Finder’ which was used more than 52 million times in 18 months.

Funded by state and federal governments, the free healthcare advisory service has also broadened its geographical coverage, making it easier for those living outside major cities to find healthcare options, giving 50 providers for any healthcare service - from dentists to orthopaedic surgeons - in order of proximity to a suburb or postcode.

Healthdirect Digital Portfolio director Vanessa Halter said the upgraded platform aimed to improve the health literacy of all Australians by giving equal access to reliable information.

Celebrating the people who help make a difference

NOW is the time to think about someone amazing who you would like to thank for their tireless work in the community with nominations open for the 2023 Community Achievement Awards for Victoria.

Every town has that inspiring individual or community group that helps everyone and everything,.

The awards celebrate those people who have contributed to their community, no matter how big or small.

These nominees will be the selfless unsung heroes that dedicate their time to helping the lives of others within their community.

All nominees will receive a letter

of congratulations and a certificate of encouragement for their nomination.

Nominations close Friday, September 1, with judging to take place throughout October.

Winners will be announced on Friday, December 1 at the 2023 Community Achievement Awards

Gala Presentation Dinner. For full details of category descriptions and conditions or to fill in a nomination form, visit awardsaustralia.com/Viccaa.

Alternatively, you can also call 1300 055 096 or email vic@ awardsaustralia.com with the nominees details.

“No matter where you live, the Service Finder simplifies the process of locating providers through a userfriendly search engine that lists the options by geographical location,” she said.

“This is particularly helpful for those living in regional, rural and remote Australia who may not be familiar with the services outside their local area.”

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION: Nominations are now open for the Community Achievement Awards.

Alex McKenzie’s debut exhibition

By CHLOE JAENICKE

ALEX McKenzie had his first ever solo art exhibition on Saturday, July 15 at the Artmania Creativity Hub and Gallery on Reid Street in Wangaratta.

The exhibition was titled ‘My love of the sea’ and featured many water colour paintings of Werribee beach huts and beyond that Mr McKenzie has been working on for around three and half years. Many came to support and buy the art from Artmania resident Mr McKenzie.

FAMILY SUPPORT: Alex McKenzie with family members, Dot, Don, Chantelle and Sharon McKenzie celebrating his first solo art exhibition.

WORKING TOGETHER:

APPRECIATING ART: Cecily Clarke had a great time viewing all the paintings that were on display.

SEASIDE PAINTINGS: Alex McKenzie’s

2 X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS EACH)

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre

Wednesday 26 July 8pm

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

‘WERK IT’ by Circus Trick Tease is an all-new, late-night, highenergy, acrobatic comedy romp. Celebrating spandex, high-vis, vitality and vigour – ‘WERK IT’ received nightly standing ovations in it’s debut season. Combining never seen before acrobatic feats and jaw dropping skill, this show is the buzz of the town.

Featuring outrageous circus by Australia’s hottest acrobats, including award-winning Vincent van Berkel (Can’t Face), hula hoop sensation Lisa Lottie (Neon), manipulation idol Richard Sullivan (Jugg Life), real life strong woman Cassia Jamieson

your details and post or deliver to our Wangaratta Chronicle “Werk It” competition

37 Rowan Street

Wangaratta VIC 3677

Full Name: Address:

Email Address: Entries Close: 5pm Monday July 24

WATERCOLOUR

LOVE OF THE SEA: The art display featured Alex McKenzie’s first watercolour painting of the Werribee beach huts which inspired the theme for the exhibition.

art exhibiton featured many unique paintings of beach huts and beach landscapes.

ART: Naomi, Tom and Paula Stewart enjoyed all the art on display at the ‘My love of the sea’ exhibition.

UNIQUE PAINTINGS: Vibka Wallder and Jacquie Coupe appreciating the artwork featured at the exhibition.

SUPPORTING ARTISTS: Shea O’Keefe and Naylan McDonell have supported Alex McKenzie throughout his time at Artmania.

Artmania Shea O’Keefe enjoyed Alex McKenzie’s first solo exhibition.

PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

Pinsent Hotel to celebrate 100 years

ENJOY an evening of good food, drink and 1920s style music and dance courtesy of Gatsby Swing when the Pinsent Hotel celebrates its 100th birthday this Saturday night from 6pm.

Tickets include a three course meal and complimentary drink on arrival, with prizes for best dressed in Great Gatsby - style, available at pinsenthotel.eventbrite.com.

National Tree Day planting event

CONNECT with nature and the community during a celebration of National Tree Day with a planting event, planting indigenous native plant along the rail trail near Tarrawingee Station.

Presented by the Rural City of Wangaratta, learn more about our local flora and fauna and help to improve habitat for local wildlife, with a free barbecue lunch provided.

It will be held on Sunday from 10am to 1pm and RSVP is required online, or by contacting environment@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call 5722 0888.

Morning tea to celebrate volunteers

THE Rural City of Wangaratta will recognise volunteers from across the region at a morning tea being held in their honour at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Monday, July 24.

Volunteers from across our community are invited to attend, with the morning tea being held from 10am to 11am in the Memorial Hall, with RSVP to wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Residents/Whats-

On or email recreation@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

Cathedral College presents Singin’ in the Rain

CATHEDRAL College

Wangaratta will present Singin’ in the Rain JR, based on the classic movie musical, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on August 11 and 12.

The entertaining show features plenty of comedy, snappy dialogue and a hitparade score of Hollywood standards, performed by a cast of middle and senior school students.

Enjoy the tinsel town favourite for all ages with tickets available at wpacc. com.au.

GANEAA exhibition at Art Gallery on Ovens

ARTISTS from the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance will present an exhibition called Home at the Art Gallery on Ovens from July 19 to July 31, in the laneway off Murphy Street. Members have contributed to a diverse collection of artworks inspired by the concept of “Home”, whether it’s a residence, a locality, a country, or a place where they feel comfortable and belong.

An official opening event will be held today from 4pm to 6pm featuring guest speaker Margaret Pullen on the North Wangaratta Sculpture Trail, with local Irish band Inisheer to play from 5pm.

The Gruffalo’s Child on stage tomorrow

A MUSICAL adaption of the much-loved picture book, The Gruffalo’s Child, is coming to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tomorrow.

The engaging family experience brings together physical theatre, music and puppetry to deliver songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged three plus and their adults.

Presented by CDP Kids Tall Stories, seats are still available for Thursday’s show at 5pm with tickets at wpacc.com.au.

yourstars

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You enter a more positive period, both personally and professionally, but trouble spots can appear. Avoid them by keeping lines of communication open.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Don’t fret about the competition. Since Taurus rules the throat, you could have the advantage of conveying your ideas in tones that are sure to please your listeners.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Of course, as a Gemini, you love to talk. But watch your words very carefully this week. What you say could come back to cause you some unpleasant moments.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The Grabby-Crabby side of you dominates. You want it all. But try to temper that urge to splurge so that you can take advantage of an upcoming investment opportunity.

Crime author Chris Hammer to speak at next literary lunch

ONE of Australia’s best known authors of crime fiction, Chris Hammer, will be the guest speaker at Wangaratta Arts Council’s 2023 Literary Lunch, being held in August.

A leader in his genre, Chris Hammer’s first book Scrublands, was an instant bestseller when it was published in 2018.

It won the prestigious UK Crime Writers Association John Creasy Award for a debut crime novel in 2019, and was shortlisted for various awards in Australia and the USA.

Scrublands has been sold into translation in several foreign languages and is being developed for television.

His follow up books - Silver (2019), Trust (2020) and Treasure and Dirt (2021) - are also bestsellers and all have been shortlisted for major literary prizes.

Before turning to fiction, Chris was a journalist for more

than 30 years, dividing his career between covering Australian federal politics and international affairs.

He reported from more than 30 countries on six continents with SBS TV, while in Canberra, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin, senior writer for The Age and online political editor for Fairfax.

Chris has also written two non-fiction books, The River (2010) and The Coast (2012), and he has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Charles Sturt University as well as a master’s degree in international relations from the Australian National University.

Chris Hammer’s latest book is The Tilt, which was published in late 2022 to great acclaim, with critics describing the mystery as ‘ominous, pacey and intricately plotted’, ‘a rich, complex thriller, packed with detail and in-

trigue’ and ‘Hammer’s best yet’.

Now much in demand as a speaker, Chris comes to Wangaratta following speaking engagements in the United Kingdom, and will attend the literary lunch at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Saturday, August 12.

It will be held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway from 11.30am for a start at 12 noon, with guests seated at tables of 10.

Following the meal, Chris will talk and answer questions, with copies of his books available for purchase.

Bookings for the Literary Lunch are available at Edgars Books and News, 55 Murphy Street, Wangaratta or by calling 5721 3758, with tickets for Wangaratta Arts Council members and those with a seniors/pension/concession card at $58 per person (or $63 for a full price ticket).

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Spread that natural sunshine all you loving Leos and Leonas radiate, and brighten up those gloomy hearts around you. Also, expect a visit from someone from your past.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You like things neat and tidy. That’s fine for your closets and desktops, but you need to be more flexible in your relationships. Give a little, and you’ll get a lot back.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Your financial aspects continue to dominate. There still might be problems to work out from past business decisions before you can make plans for the future.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)

Travel plans might be up in the air -- literally -- now that your spouse or partner would rather fly than drive. A thorny workplace issue is close to being resolved.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Use your natural leadership qualities to guide a troublesome workplace project through to completion. Meanwhile, a personal relationship is smooth sailing.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Aspects for moving to a new location appear to be increasingly favorable. Meanwhile, your loyalty to a friend soon pays off in ways you never expected.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your ability to be flexible helps get you through changes you hadn’t expected, either on the job or at home. Remember to take things one step at a time.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

Your creative talents are put to the test, as you attempt to deal with a suddenly changed situation. It will be up to you to devise a way to work it out successfully.

CRIME FICTION: Best-selling author and speaker Chris Hammer will be the guest at the Wangaratta Arts Council’s 2023 Literary Lunch on August 12.

KING VALLEY NEWS

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

Greta students’ pie drive aids Wangaratta Carevan

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

STUDENTS at Greta Valley

Primary School have experienced the joy of giving, donating over $1500 to Wangaratta Carevan from this year’s pie fundraiser.

Kids in grade 5/6 are involved in the fundraiser every year, learning valuable life skills and concepts of social responsibility from the process, while also applying what they have learnt in academic subjects such as Mathematics and English.

Principal Howard Gibson said the students do all the groundwork for the campaign, including contacting bakeries and compiling the order forms which are distributed among family and friends - even sorting the ordered product and packing them ready for pickup.

Speaking on behalf of their classmates, grade five student Shannon Orr and grade six student Murphy Flanigan explained students work in teams to undertake the variety of tasks involved, including calling the bakeries and finding out what products they sell.

This year’s product list included mushroom and plain pies, pasties and sausage rolls and also apple and apricot pies, which all went down well with the families and friends who ordered them.

“We work out how much it will cost and what it will add up to,” said Shannon.

“One group had the job of

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

The club will host indoor carpet bowls from 12 noon tomorrow (Thursday), cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

Next Wednesday, the club will host a social gathering at its clubrooms from 1.30pm.

WANGARATTA Family History

Society will host a Family Tree Maker workshop tomorrow 20 at the Wangaratta Library from 10am to 1pm.

Cost to attend is $5 for Wangaratta Family History Society members, and $10 for non-members. Morning tea will be provided.

For further details, phone 0474 443 626 or email info@wfhs.org.au

THE Wangaratta Artists are under new management, and welcome budding artists to come along, and established artists to exhibit in the studio at Batchelor’s Green.

The group meets at the studio on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 noon.

For more information, phone Clare on 0419 365 149.

THE Australian Plant Society will not hold its usual fourth Thursday

Moyhu community meal this week

THE next Moyhu community meal will be held tomorrow from 12pm at the Moyhu Hotel (as a new floor is currently being installed in the Moyhu hall).

RSVP is essential, one week before meal date, to Neil Jarrott on 5727 9464 or email neil.jarrott@ bigpond.com.

Grants information session in Moyhu

THE Rural City of Wangaratta will host a community grants information session at Ineeta Café in Moyhu tomorrow from 1pm to 3pm.

Anyone with an idea for a project is encouraged to come and discuss it with a council officer at the community drop-in sessions, who can help get an application underway and submitted.

Another session runs from 5pm tomorrow at the Wangaratta Library.

Trash ‘n’ Treasure in Whitfield

THE Trash ‘n’ Treasure outlet at the King Valley Community Memorial Hall in the main street of Whitfield will be closed for the month of July.

It will reopen again in August, with more information is available by calling Angie on 5729 8487.

calling the bakeries - I like doing the fundraiser because you get to talk to people - and it’s good because Wangaratta Carevan makes meals for people.”

Murphy said Mr Gibson puts the students into groups, and all grade five and six students take part.

“Some do publicity, like putting it in the newsletter,” he said.

“There are people who work out the finances and people who do the order sheets, and we all get

night meeting in July, but will hold a garden visit on the following Sunday, July 23.

For details, phone John van Riet on 5725 7207.

The society has an art display in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library during July, displaying artwork by some of its members featuring Australian plants and flowers.

WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held in St Patrick’s Supper Room on Friday, July 28 from 2pm to 4pm.

The dance is held on the fourth Friday of each month, with entry beside St Patrick’s Church in Ford Street. Music will be provided by the Rustic Ramblers, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, admission $5 (non-members $7), which includes afternoon tea.

For further information, phone Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie Davey on 0408 032 451.

COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am.

Beginners welcome.

Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.

WANGARATTA Cake Decorators meet every third Saturday of the month at Galen College in Phillipson Street from 10.30am.

Phone Jeanie on 0439 087 630 for more information.

to vote on where the money goes.

“We like it because we learn stuff too.”

This week Wangaratta Carevan received over $1500 in their bank account, and treasurer Ross Johnston expressed the organisation’s gratitude for the generous donation.

“Your young philanthropists have made a significant impact on the Carevan, enabling us to reach out to more people in need with

SOCIAL CALENDAR

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. For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.

All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480, Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062 or Marlene O‘Keefe on 0417 454 126.

WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street.

New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.

GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.

The competition runs until 3.30pm–4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea.

nutritious meals,” he said.

“I am personally really touched by the compassion and dedication displayed by the students.

“Their efforts are a shining example of the positive change young minds can create, and they should be very proud of themselves.”

Mr Johnston said Wangaratta Carevan would use the contribution responsibly ensuring it has a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.

COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 12.30pm.

Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

For more details phone president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of the month for a relaxed day of sit, sew and chat, from 10am to 3pm at the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club, off the river end of College Street. Contact Colleen on 0427 221 138.

A NEW croquet club has started at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park.

The group plays on Sunday afternoons, Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings, equipment supplied. For more information, contact Anne on 0490 173 169.

WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue.

New string and wind players are welcome to come along to rehearsals to try out.

For more information, email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail.com or call Chloe on 0413 775 027.

King Valley United ladies day

THE King Valley United Football Netball Club is hosting a ladies day on Saturday, July 29 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve. There will be live entertainment, finger food and a glass of sparkling on arrival with tickets $25 per person and more information available by vising the club on Facebook.

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.

For more information, contact Bevan on 0437 196 118 or Les on 0412 250 674.

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 are welcome to join this enthusiastic and welcoming group of singers. For more information, contact Helen on 0457 269278.

LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. Lifeball is a non–contact game of netball, designed by a doctor and physio for the safety of mature players, with no running, walking backwards or throwing high balls, but enjoying fun and friendship.

For more information, phone 0418 574 404.

• TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au

TEAM EFFORT: Speaking on behalf of their fellow students, Shannon Orr and Murphy Flanigan said the school was pleased their annual fundraiser would help provide meals to others in the community.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs. Commercial, industrial renovations.

Phone Julian 0412 597 482.

Full-Time Ongoing Administration

Position Available – Beechworth

Our organisation works in collaboration with program areas and communities to deliver services that are efficient, effective, and integrated.

The Administration team provides accurate and timely administration and delivery services to clients and stakeholders based at Beechworth Correctional Centre.

As our ideal candidate you will possess:

For more information and to apply for this role, go to www.careers.vic.gov.au and type in Job ID: VG-3899JULY23 or contact Kate Downie at Kathrine.Downie@ justice.vic.gov.au. Applications should include a resume, and cover letter that details your motivation for applying and includes the skills and attributes you would bring to this role.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre-employment checks which prison based and will require prisoner contact.

Applications close on Sunday 23rd July 2023

MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN

VICTORIA POLICE, HUMAN RESOURCES COMMAND LOCATED AT EITHER WANGARATTA OR WODONGA REFERENCE: VG/JE20043914C

Victoria Police has an exciting opportunity for one (1) Mental Health Clinician to join the newly established Health, Safety and Wellbeing Taskforce (the Taskforce). The Taskforce is the single most significant investment in the health, safety and wellbeing of Victoria Police employees. The Taskforce has been established to improve prevention and respond to work related injuries.

The Mental Health Clinician will provide preventative and proactive mental health services to Victoria Police employees.

The position will work closely and collaboratively with local managers and employees to improve help seeking and early engagement with appropriate mental health services. Through a relational and integrated approach, this position will engage with employees through wellbeing conversations, brief interventions, care co-ordination and reflective practice to create pathways for employees to seek the most appropriate support they need.

As an employee of Victoria Police, you will have access to a range of benefits.

For further information, please contact: Liz Tsang on (03) 8335 7814 or elizabeth.tsang@police.vic.gov.au.

For the position description and details on how to apply refer to Victorian Government careers website (https://careers.vic.gov.au/).

R40049

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

Advertising Account Manager (Full-Time)

Wangaratta Chronicle is looking for a driven and committed individual to join the advertising team at our office in Wangaratta.

If you can always see an opportunity and enjoy the idea of helping businesses grow, then we want to talk to you. To be successful in this role you will be able to demonstrate

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Taking over an established client list, you will be selling advertising and digital marketing opportunities to existing clients while looking to drive new business opportunities. An ability to develop and maintaining business relationships will be the key to your success in this role.

An attractive remuneration package is offered including a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.

North East Media is an independent media group publishing award winning publications in print and online across North East Victoria and beyond.

Please forward your application and covering letter to Ian Pople Sales Manager at the Wangaratta Chronicle, ipople@nemedia.com.au

EMPLOYMENT

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OUT IN FRONT: Lane Sloan leads the pack and puts boot to ball.

MATCHRESULTS

UNDER PRESSURE: Lukas Cannata manages to get the ball out of the contest.

TALL TAP: Josh Montgomery soars in the ruck contest.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

CLEARANCE: Isaac Parkinson boots the ball downfield.

HEAD TO HEAD: Benalla’s Ben Wells and Junior Magpie Lane Sloan battle it out for possession.

UNDER17SCOREBOARDUNDER14SCOREBOARDUNDER12SCOREBOARD

BEST: COLLEGE: Charlie Lugg, Noah Thomas Scholte, Angus Kennedy, Hudson Lloyd, Fraser Burgan, Max McKenzie. BRIGHT: Stefan Barnard, Zac Bradley, Henry Lindner, Bailey Brady, Cade McGregor. GOALS: COLLEGE: Charlie Lugg 7, Noah Thomas Scholte 2, Fraser Burgan 1, Selby Doyle 1, Rory Harvey 1, Angus Kennedy 1, Hudson Lloyd 1, Jonah Massey-Chase 1, Jack Parrott 1, Ayden Peebles 1, Tom Rebbechi 1.

BRIGHT: Tyson Brierty 2, Stefan Barnard 1, Lee Robinson 1. Junior Magpies

Benalla Bulldogs

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Callum Bott, Will Phillips, Lukas Allan, Corey Petersen, Riley Burrows, William Petersen. BENALLA BULLDOGS: Sam Gates, Lucas Ham, Blake Calvert, Private player, Daniel Farley, Hunter Carter. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Will Phillips 9, Callum Bott 6, Lukas Allan 3, Cooper Allan 1, Riley Burrows 1, Jackson Hewitt 1, Jack James 1, Henry Scalzo 1, Mark John White 1. BENALLA BULLDOGS: Oscar Beaton 1, Connor Breheny 1.

BEST: BENALLA GIANTS: Xavier Wapling, Logan Hyland, Ryder Levy, Max Smyth, James Ferguson, Owain Boyle. CENTRALS: Cody Johnson, Cooper Boman, Charlie Kerwin, Samuel Shepherd, Patrick Ford, Hunter

Fraser. GOALS: BENALLA GIANTS: Owain Boyle 1, Bryce Cooney 1, Ryder Levy 1, Max Smyth 1. CENTRALS: Charlie Eames 5, Charlie Kerwin

5, Cooper Boman 3, Bailey Paul 2, Hunter Barry 1, Charlie Curr 1, Angus Jayet 1, Cody Johnson 1, Seth Johnson 1, Samuel Shepherd 1.

Kangaroos

7.6 11.10 13.11.89

Mansfield 3.1 6.1 7.3 10.4.64

BEST: KANGAROOS: Corey Marjanovic, Jaxon Coleman, Mario Sacco, Zac O’Shannessy, Curtis Hines, Bay Pellegrino. MANSFIELD: Jack Marks, Harry Craddock, Samuel Guppy, Trent Berry, Adam Storer, Hayden

Desmond. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Corey Marjanovic 3, Bay Pellegrino 3, Sonny McCormack 2, Zac O’Shannessy 2, Edward Clayton 1, Will Graham

1, Cope Swinburne 1. MANSFIELD: Adam Storer 5, Harry Craddock 2, Trent Berry 1, Hayden Desmond 1, Samuel Guppy 1. Myrtleford 2.1 4.4 6.8 9.11.65

Imperials 2.3 2.3 2.3 3.5.23

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Jake Skahill, Cooper Howden, Samuel Crisp, Tai Miller, Thomas Morgan, Jock Pascoe. IMPERIALS: Noah Hall, Will

Prebble, Jed Marek, Parker Stamp, Luke Griffiths. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Jock Pascoe 4, Liam McManus 2, Thomas Morgan 1, Jake Skahill 1, Ryley Skahill 1. IMPERIALS: Luke Griffiths 1, Harrison O’Brien 1, Declan

O’Sullivan 1.

BEST: TIGERS: Mitchell Benton, Xavier Dodgshun, William Farrington, Zachariah Akers, Thomas Jones, Jaxon Wickham. MANSFIELD YELLOW: Andrew Friday, Samuel Kain, Felix Smith, Archie Dunn, Judd Turner, Josh Taylor. GOALS: TIGERS: Jaxon Wickham 2. MANSFIELD YELLOW: Xavier Maroney 3, Josh Taylor 2, Rory Christopher 1, Judd Turner

BEST: COLLEGE: Lenny Sims, Sam Reid, Harrison Bowman, Zeke Peebles, Liam Bigham-Wallis, Harvey Allan. BRIGHT: Cash Garratt, Harry West, Otis Dalbosco, Stefan Murdzevski, Matthew McCann, Noah White. GOALS: COLLEGE: Harvey Allan 2, Lenny Sims 1, Kyle Tonkin 1. BRIGHT: Cash Garratt 3, Hamish Johnston 3, Alex Tanaskovic 2, Brock Buckland 1, Josh Caloutas 1, Oscar Lewis 1, Matthew McCann 1, Noah White 1.

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Sam McIntosh, Zach Bott, Kalti Ross, Will James, Alexander Scholes, Jack Holmes. BENALLA BULLDOGS: Ryder Robertson, Nate Nicholas, Billy Dyer, Jackson Fry, Kobi Thwaites, Angus Richardson. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Cooper Cassidy 2, Sam McIntosh 2, Leo Sammon 2, Jack Holmes 1, Archie Johnson 1, Jimi Pell 1.

BULLDOGS: Mason Butterworth 1, Ryder Robertson 1. Benalla Giants 0.1 0.1 0.4 2.4.16 Centrals 3.4 7.7 9.9 12.10.82

BEST: BENALLA GIANTS: Josh Hart, Josh Mathieson, Harrison Skelton, Kai Dervish, Mason Willett, David Vanderleeuw. CENTRALS: Kaiden Wohlers, Ryan Parsons, Beau Johns, Connor Ormond, Solomon Steer, Dean Balfour. GOALS: BENALLA GIANTS: Josh Hart 1, Mason Willett 1. CENTRALS: Ryan Parsons 8, Henry Burke 1, Reid McNamara 1, Noah Paul 1, Kaiden Wohlers 1.

Blue

BEST: KANGAROOS: Alasdair Brett, Ollie Reynolds, Henry Ackerly, Brady O’Keefe, Jack McCarthy, Billy Hiskins. MANSFIELD BLUE: Liam Smith, James Wellborne, Cruz Purday, Toby Gerrans, Tia-Tane Paraone, Orlando Miller. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Alasdair Brett 10, Jamie Scheier 2, Archie Symons 2, Oscar Edwards 1, Tyler Hunter 1, Kade Jackson 1, Jack McCarthy 1, Eamon Mullins 1, Ollie Reynolds 1. MANSFIELD BLUE: Mitch Storer 3, Liam Smith 1.

JUNIOR MAGPIES: Sam Briggs, Samuel Girolami, Ollie Parr, Charlie Allen, Baxter McLeod, Jacob Nesbitt. BENALLA BULLDOGS: Joshua Montgomery, Ben Wells, Hugh Ross, Nicholas White, Thomas Lewis, Riley Hilton. GOALS: BENALLA BULLDOGS: Joshua Bamford 1, Oliver Parker 1, Hugh Ross 1.

BEST: BENALLA GIANTS: Jack Hart, Xavier De Fazio, Samuel Mount, Cash Nolen, Edward Spinks, Jake Holland. CENTRALS: Angus Fraser, Samuel Elkington, Sonny Gales, Archie Knobel, Charlie Richards, Zeke Harding. GOALS: BENALLA GIANTS: Thomas Mount 1, Lucas Webster 1. CENTRALS: Archie Knobel 1, Harvey Muraca 1.

BEST: KANGAROOS: Luca Solimo, Charlie Kelly, Urban Holt, Levi Canning, Jayden Foster, Cooper Borschmann. MYRTLEFORD – RED: Gemma Corcoran, Milla Corcoran, William Koers, Jake Jennings, Claye Corcoran, Orlando Hunkin. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Harry Edwards 1, Urban Holt 1, Bodi Jackson 1, Charlie Kelly 1, Jack Pople 1, Luca Solimo 1.

MYRTLEFORD – RED: Koby Prott 1, Cooper Roman 1.

BEST: MYRTLEFORD – BLACK: Billy McMahon, Xavier Millar, Ella

McMasters, Jaxon Clark, Hunter Szaraszek, Lachlan McDonald.

IMPERIALS: Ryley Davies, Finn Hughes, Jack Smerdon, Sidney Smerdon, Ames Rea. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD – BLACK: Xavier Millar 3, Ella

McMasters 1. IMPERIALS: Judd Campbell 1, Gus Marek 1, Ames Rea 1, Wally Startin 1.

UNDER17LADDERUNDER14LADDERUNDER12LADDER

Devils’ fight their way out of jail

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City fought out a 3-3 draw against Melrose at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday.

Melrose found the first goal in the opening minutes of the clash putting Wangaratta City on the back foot from the get go.

Wangaratta found the response they needed in the 12th minute as James Pursell found his first of two for the game to level the scores.

Astonishingly though, both the Devils (Pursell) and Melrose scored in the 39th minute evening the leger at half-time

Melrose’s Adam McLennan scored straight after the break to give Melrose a 3-2 buffer early in the second half.

Unlike the first half, the ball found the back of the net on just one occasion and that would be through Stoycho Ivanov (89th) as he got his side out of jail in the dying minutes to hang on for a draw.

Wangaratta City coach Raff Molinaro was pleased with the result.

“It was an entertaining game for a neutral to watch,” Molinaro said.

“I’m glad we were able to respond to the 4-0 loss we had to Melrose earlier in the season even though it was a draw.

“We came back at the death and managed to find the equalizer in the last minute so it definitely like a good draw unlike

the one we had to St Pats a few weeks ago where we felt like we should’ve won.”

Pursell scored his first senior goal for the Devils against Albury Hotspurs just last week but doubled that with two in the draw to Melrose.

“It’s great to see James Pursell pick some form up because he’s been in and out of the senior squad all season,” Molinaro said.

“We tried him at left wing last week and he managed to score, quite often when you find your first the next ones seem to follow pretty quickly and that was the case for him.

“He was a lot more clinical this weekend and made the most of his chances.

“He’s a player that turns up to training every week and puts in everything he can to make himself better so it was well deserved.”

Molinaro was happy with his side’s hunger to find the equalizer.

“It was great to see the fight from all of the boys to find that last goal,” he said.

“We had a younger side on in the first half because I wanted to give them an opportunity and then I gave some senior players a go in the second half and they all lifted.

“We just need to try and gain some momentum now ahead of finals.”

Wangaratta City faces Myrtleford at South Wangaratta Reserve this weekend.

CONTROL:

Lady Devils miss chances against Melrose, lose 2-1

By NATHAN de VRIES

DESPITE having the majority of play and plenty of shots on goal, Wangaratta’s senior women came up short against Melrose at home, downed 2-1.

The Lady Devils had no difficulty applying pressure early in the game, with several chances in the opening 10 minutes, but

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Melrose hit the scoreboard first.

Melrose’s Alicia Torcaso got on the end of a pass, drew goalkeeper Claire Christison out of the box and popped it over into an empty

net to give the visitors a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute.

More chances to equalise the match went begging until a terrific one-two play from Sarah Morris and Hannah Swindley in the 35th got the Lady Devils on the board.

With scores even at half-time, Wangaratta kept pressing the offensive but were unable to capitalise,

while Melrose’s Torcaso found the back of the net in the 47th to make it 2-1.

Wangaratta kept trying to find a goal back, but Melrose’s defence held firm until the final whistle.

Coach Dan Kelly said executing on chances was a slight fault from the game.

“We probably had seven easy chances, the girls just didn’t finish and it came

back to bite us,” he said.

“We were the better team, created the more chances but just couldn’t finish.

“They just broke through the back line and got through the back line too easy, and they ran to the keeper and were able to pop it in the open net.”

After several back-toback matches against

strong opposition Albury Hotspurs, Kelly said his side had to adjust to a different foe’s game style.

The Lady Devils will be bolstered by some returning players for this weekend’s match with Albury United.

It was a goal frenzy in the division two match, with Wangaratta falling to Melrose 2-5.

BATTLE: Isabella Antonello goes one-on-one with her Melrose opponent.

Ruby Snowdon collects the ball in Wangaratta’s defensive half.

PHOTOS: Kat De Naps Photography

CONTROL: Alex Pitt takes possession of the ball in Wangaratta City’s 3-3 draw with Melrose.

PHOTOS: Kat de Naps Photography

A star on the rise: Newton selected for u15 schoolboys

BLAKE Newton will be competing with some of the best young footballers in the country at the under 15s School Sports National Football Championships this week.

The Cathedral College student made the final squad of the Victorian white team, one of two state teams chosen from 600 players up for selection.

The under15s carnival will be held from July 22 until July 29, with teams scheduled to play five games in a seven-day festival of football across Ballarat, hosting some of the next AFL and AFLW stars.

Newton said it was an awesome feeling to be chosen to represent his state, after many trial matches and nervous waits until his name was read out in the final squad.

“It was a goal of mine at the start of the year to make the team… every kid was a really good player but I played well and made it through,” he said.

The selection process included three stages of trial games starting in April, with players advancing to each stage based on ability.

After selection, players and coaches went on a three day training camp during the school holidays at the Western Jets Football Club in Altona, which included training, game plan learning, fitness testing, special guest presentations and two practice matches against the Coates League Western Jets under 16 squad.

Newton said a highlight of the camp was being presented with his Victorian playing jumper by former Norm Smith medalist Brian Lake and current Western Bulldog Ryan Gardner.

“I didn’t know any of the other boys much but made friends with everyone over the three days,” he said.

“We did a lot of other training and team building activities as well, like a tackling session, a leadership session, a game plan learning session, and a fitness/combine testing session.”

Newton has been playing in the Wangaratta Magpies thirds this season, despite being three years younger than the top aged players in the grade.

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”

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

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.

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

He said while it’s been challenging coming up against bigger bodies, he has fully embraced it and enjoyed the season so far.

“The coaches have worked on a lot of things with me to improve my game, and have given me the confidence to play against the older boys,” he said.

Coach of the Victoria white team and representing Galen Catholic College, Aron Lombardi, said it was an amazing effort to see Blake come through in the final squad.

“He is a powerful athlete and is able to make an impact both in the midfield and forward line, he is also a strong mark and a good set shot at goal,” he said.

“The camp was an amazing three days of football and Blake handled himself well, he rotated between the midfield and forward line in the practice matches and did well in both roles.

“We are hoping it goes well for both Victorian teams, supporting each other and hopefully we can meet the Vic blue team in the grand final.

“All teams will be filled with amazing talent and every game will be a massive challenge.”

Fellow Cathedral College student Sam Lupo was also selected to represent the state in the under 12s carnival in August at Albury, while coach Lombardi and selected umpire Maison Ring will be representing Galen Catholic College in the non-player roles.

The Victorian white team will play ACT on Sunday, Queensland on Monday and Western Australia on Wednesday in their round robin games, before playing two finals matches for seeding.

Newton said he hoped he could bring out his best footy for the week and help his team come away with the gold medal.

ROUND RESULTS:

U14 Boys 1 59 def Korumburra 1 33

(Top Scorers: Keoni Anderson 16, Sam Lupo 12, Connah Hart 10)

U14 Boys 2 46 def Westgate 3 35

(Top Scorers: Brock Buckland 26, Michael Moylan 5, Blake Manning 5)

U14 Girls 1 32 def by Korumburra 1 38

(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 19, Minnie Humphry 6, Layla Graham 4)

U14 Girls 2 30 drew Wallan 30

(Top Scorers: Maria Hanley 12, Kaity Ford 4, Paige Ely 3)

U16 Boys 1 39 def Nunawading 2 36

(Top Scorers: Blake Newton 9, Dashiell Smith 7, Cooper Clark 6)

U16 Boys 2 49 def Darebin 1 38

(Top Scorers: Sam Kain 13, Mateo Hanley 10, Lenny Lonergan 7)

U16 Girls 1 48 def by McKinnon 1 57

(Top Scorers: Molly Moylan 15, Lily-Anne McClure 11, Mekenzie Wood 7)

U16 Girls 2 32 def Darebin 1 19

(Top Scorers: Sophia Kotzur 7, Amelia Frazer 6, Scarlett Mullavey 5)

U18 Boys 1 70 def Eltham 1 49

(Top Scorers: Lochie Harvey 15, Frank Oguche 13, Jobe Shanahan 12)

U18 Boys 2 54 def by Melton 1 56

(Top Scorers: Cam Cooper 17, Nic Watson 11, Jac Green 9)

U18 Girls 40 def by Dandenong 2 56

(Top Scorers: Holly Humphry 10, Jess Freeman 9, Niamh Moylan 8)

YLM 50 def by Albury/Wodonga 103

(Top Scorers: Jesse King 14, Dylan Hoare 10, Isaac Plummer 8)

Prince Of Helena wins Narrandera Cup

■ From back page

“He’s now in the paddock and will have a couple of weeks off before coming back into work.

“I’d like to think he’ll be a real chance in either the Big or Little Dance – the Little Dance is a great consolation given it’s still worth $750,000.”

That wasn’t the only winner for Weeding at Narrandera with Choice Harvest winning the race prior (BM58 over 1400M) by a nose.

The eight-year-old gelding isn’t slowing down making it back-to-back wins after saluting at Corowa on July 3.

The victory takes Choice Harvest to 11 wins and over $245,000 in prizemoney in an outstanding career to date.

“I love him,” Weeding said.

“He’s now was his 11th race and is looking like he still has more to give, he’s sound and enjoys his racing so there’s no reason to retire him at the moment.

“He’s usually a very easy watch, he chooses where to go which is why he’s a horse that seems to suit apprentices.

“I reckon he’ll now go to Leeton this weekend in a benchmark 58.”

U16 BOYS 2 TEAM: BACK ROW: Aiden Button, Josh Vearing Sam Kain, Lenny Lonergan, Aaron Hamill, Riley Robinson, Brayden Lincoln, Ian Pople (Coach). FRONT ROW: Sam Gebauer (Assistant Coach), Seth Graham, Mateo Hanley, Jackson Walker, Harry Pople, Ethan Pigdon.

WINNER: Prince Of Helena took out the Narrandera Cup on Sunday.

PHOTO: Racing Photos

CLASSY HANDS: Blake Newton is ready to take on some of the nations best footballers in his age group as the Wangaratta Magpie represents Cathedral College at the School Sports National Football Championships this week.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Grady, Newton win in 200th games

By WILLSON MACK

ROUND 15

By NATHAN de VRIES

BRIGHT’S A grade netball squad picked up their first win of the season with a 48-44 win at home to Benalla All Blacks, a terrific reward for a challenging season to date.

The squad has been improving week on week, and after a one goal loss to the Panthers back in round four, a sense of excitement and optimism hung in the air as the match got underway.

Bright seized the moment, sinking 16 goals to 10 in the opening stanza before Benalla started to trim the margin down through the second quarter.

Only up by five goals at the half-time break, young gun shooter Maddy Tomasoni came on to goal attack and revitalised the entire squad, as she worked in tandem with Jess Carnes to put 17 goals on through the third quarter to open up an 11 goal margin in favour of the home side.

With all players feeling the effects of a hard-

WANGARATTA

A grade netballers gave Hannah Grady and Issy Newton the result they deserved in their 200th club games.

It wasn’t all Wangaratta’s way though with the Hoppers staying in touch for the majority of the match as the Magpies grabbed a 43-35 win at Bunton Park.

Magpies’ recruit Brooke Pryse starred in defence and is proving to be an outstanding pick up, while Newton was at her usual best in game 200. Wangaratta co-coach Grady said North Albury was a challenge.

“North really capitalised on our errors this week,” Grady said.

“Em Browne was amazing, she read the ball well and picks off anything that’s loose and flying so she makes a huge difference to their side.”

Grady was happy to grab the victory although she admitted there’s plenty to work on.

“There were certain aspects we were happy with,” she said.

“We gave Amanda (Umanski) and Amy (Byrne) a go together in the goal circle, which is a combination we haven’t tried yet, so it was nice to get that under our belts.

“There’s definitely a few things we need to work on though, I think we need to reduce our errors.”

Pryse is showing the O&M that she’s one of the best defenders

NETBALLREVIEWS

when at her best and she’s certainly moving towards that form at the right time of the year.

“Brooke’s been a great get for us,” Grady said.

“She’s gelling back into the side after a few weeks away but she’s such a presence for us on the court.

“She can defend in the goal circle but can also get up the court a bit as well.”

Grady and Newton have been standouts for Wangaratta over their 200 game careers, winning A grade premierships in 2018 and 2019, while also representing the O&M on multiple occasions.

“It was nice to share the 200 games with Issy,” Grady said.

“A lot of commitment has gone into reaching 200 games for both Issy and myself so it was great to reach the milestone.

“Issy was great on the weekend through the mid court, she feeds the ball into the girls so well.”

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers were no match for Myrtleford, going down by 38-goals at WJ Findlay Oval.

A 23-goal final term for Myrtleford put the icing on the cake in the 46-84 affair.

For Rovers, Sami Kreltszheim and Molly Murray toiled hard all day, while for the Saints usual defender Sophie Hanrahan shot a whopping 67-goals in a beston-court display as she played at the other end of the court.

Bright netballers are on the board for 2023 season

fought and tiring match so far, the Panthers made their move late, but Bright had enough on the board to weather the storm, victorious by four goals.

A/B grade coach Marlene Steiner said the team was over the moon to take out their first win for the season.

“They were all stoked, lots of cheers and everything,” she said.

“There were a lot of footballers watching it, the word had got around that the A graders had potential to win, so they were up there which was lovely to see – Gerard Gray, our president, came over and gave us all hugs all round and congrats as well.

“We were quietly confident going in because we only lost by one to them in the fourth round, and we had a very different line up.

“After the first quarter we were 16-10 our way, and we were excited about that, and in the second quarter I just said we need to win every one of our centre passes – that

was the mentality we went through each quarter after that.”

Steiner said Tomasoni and fellow B reserve shooter Taykea Boogaard really helped take the A grade squad to the next level.

“I think the obvious difference this time around was we did have the advantage of bringing up our two gun goalers from B reserve to help us out in the A grade,” she said.

“I think that gave us that edge, when Taykea was goaling Jess (Carnes) got that confidence and goaled very well for the day.

“Maddy Tomasoni came on in goal attack, she gave us a bit more energy - she fed Jess and they teamed up really well, she was the shining light in that third quarter.”

In other round 15 matches, Milawa comfortably defended their home court against Tarrawingee 59-38, Bonnie Doon defeated Goorambat by 15, King Valley got home by a narrow margin 43-40, and Greta smashed North Wangaratta 80-17.

REBOUNDING: Tahlia Matthews-Vincent moves the ball out of Milawa’s defensive end in their solid win over Tarrawingee.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

OVER HERE: Taykea Boogaard calls for the ball from Alecia Kelly in the A graders’ first win for the season.

PHOTO: Charlotte Kilner

ALL SMILES: Amy Byrne and Hannah Grady share a laugh.

GREAT TAKE: Hannah Grady in action in her 200th game.

GUN: Brooke Pryse was one of Wangaratta’s best in their win over North Albury

200 GAMER: Issy Newton sends a pass off in her 200th game. PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

SHARP SHOOTER: Kaylee Allan lines her shot up.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Junior netballers firing up in winter comp

ROUND 10 of Wangaratta Netball Association’s junior netball competition was played at Barr Reserve on Saturday.

Premier A: Magpies White 17 (Pippa O’Connor) def by Magpies Black 26 (Lexie Looby).

Tarra Blue 13 (Emily Bevan) def by Rovers Brown 37 (Tara Mcmonigle).

Greta Blue 18 (Mia Younger) def Rovers Gold 15 (Georgie Hill).

Premier B: Myrtleford Black 24 (Tiahna Patten) def Yfnc 17 (Ella Lewis).

Milawa Red 20 (Ellouise Jones) def Rovers Navy 14 (Ava Saunders).

Greta White 16 (Tarni White) def by Rovers Pink 17 (Jasmine Smith).

Section 1: Milawa Blue 6 (Emelia Landers) def by Milawa White

ROUND

13

30 (Millie Johnson).

Rovers Yellow 10 (Tirandi Abeyawardana) def by Bright 12 (Michaela Nightingale).

Whorouly Cubs 22 (Jasmine Uebergang) def Tarra Red 10 (Isla Keller).

Rovers Black 11 (Mia Gambrell) def by Maltesers 22 (Isla Busk).

Section 2: Jellybeans 15 (Vivienne Giglio) def Redbacks 7.

The Strikers 20 (Sammy Bell) def Wolf Pack 18 (Polly Oats).

Myrtleford Red 24 (Isobel Richter) def Alpha Wolves 6 (Ava Penney).

Section 3: Dream Team 9 (Skye Kirpensteyn) def by The Diamonds 27 (Lyla Porter).

Fantales 26 (Alexis Butera) def Westy Warriors 7 (Ella Smith).

Sharks 12 (Audrey Wadley) def Wild West 4 (Layla May).

MATCHREVIEWS

Senior Hawks down Dogs at home

IT was a postcard-perfect day at WJ Findlay Oval on Sunday, as Wangaratta Rovers hosted Thurgoona Bulldogs in round 13 of North East Border Female Football League competition.

The club celebrated founding player, inaugural coach and club champion Celia Piesse, as she played her 50th game for the Hawks’ open women’s side.

The Rovers brought the heat early, kicking the first two goals of the game and controlling much of the play.

The Doggies were able to rally and hit back late in the quarter, kicking two goals of their own and cutting Rovers’ lead to just four points.

In the second quarter, the Hawks were able to maintain control and shut Thurgoona out of the game, scoring 2.1 (13) to nil and taking a handy lead into the halftime break.

The third quarter was a real arm-wrestle. Thurgoona threw everything it had at the Hawks, and was able to win the quarter 1.2 (8) to Rovers’ solitary point, reducing the margin to just 10 points.

It was the Hawks who came out firing.

Rovers piled on the pressure, dominating possession and making it count on the scoreboard.

There were winners all over the ground for Rovers. Faith Bentley, Amy Fuller and Ally Ballard dominated down back, and the ruck

combination of Helen Collins and Amy Collins barely lost a hit-out all day.

Kelsie Powles kicked two goals, and singles were scored by Amy Collins, Emma Gosbell, Jess Whitehead, Chloe Kungl, Helen Collins and - celebrating her 50th in style - Celia Piesse.

Final score: Wangaratta Rovers 8.9 (57) defeated Thurgoona Bulldogs 5.2 (32).

Best: Celia Piesse, Emma Gosbell, Jess Whitehead, Ash Foubister, Lili Fan, Helen Collins.

The under 14s kicked off the day also recording a win against the Bulldogs.

They were enthusiastically led by captain-for-the-day Hannah Carroll, who told the playing group to bring confidence and go into the game believing they could win each contest.

The first quarter began with Rovers competing strongly. Zierra Melbourne was confidently winning ruck taps, and mids Tessa Koop, Inanay Gilson and Molly Thomas all worked hard.

Players at the defensive end did an excellent job of keeping the ball in the forward half for almost the whole quarter. Several shots on goal meant the Rovers had an eight to nil scoreline when the siren ended the quarter.

The second quarter was a much closer contest, with Thurgoona registering their first goal.

The Rovers kept working hard, with Lily Currie Fraser moving into the midfield and having an immediate impact.

Lara Maples continued the good work in ruck, with Amy Lowe and Trinity Hassgall anchoring the team strongly at both ends of the ground.

The Rovers registered another four points for the quarter.

At the half-time break, the challenge was put to the playing group to lift its marking game, to get better possession and usage of the ball moving forward, and the team delivered perfectly, with superb run-andcarry from mids and wings including Zara Mccrae, Mia Simpson, Paige-Lee Dummett and Matilda Davies.

Chloe Mizzi, Zarah Blundell and Madison Boulton all worked hard to get to

contests and apply lots of great pressure on their opponents.

Up forward, Lilias Coonan put in some excellent shepherds and handballs to allow Ruby Newton plenty of opportunities to get the ball deep forward, and Erin Collins provided some excellent defensive efforts across the middle of the ground to stop Thurgoona’s attack.

The last quarter was the Rovers’ best, with confidence at an all-time high and the team eager to continue winning the football forward right up until the final siren.

Amy Lowe and Lizzy Heally registered their first goals for the Rovers this season, with Lizzy’s goal sailing through with just 12 seconds remaining in the quarter.

There were lots of highlights from the game, but

a particularly memorable one was seeing Zierra Melbourne win the football, run into the forward line, take a bounce, continue to run and then kick long.

It was a fantastic fourquarter effort from the under 14s, with some excellent individual and team efforts to register the win.

Final score: Wangaratta Rovers 5.10 (40) defeated Thurgoona Bulldogs 1.0 (6).

Goals: Ruby Newton 2, Lily Currie Fraser, Amy Lowe, Lizzy Healy.

Awards: Zierra Melbourne, Lizzy Healy, Chloe Mizzi, Matilda Davies.

Eighteen girls pulled on the brown and gold in the under 17s.

The first quarter started with a bang, the girls working hard out of the centre to get the ball towards the forward line before the Hawks scored their first major.

Milla Armstrong’s first ever goal got the girls going, and for the rest of the quarter, the Hawks dominated play.

Milla managed another goal, and the Bulldogs only managed one for the quarter.

The second term saw the Bulldogs come out with a bit more vigour, but Rovers were up for the challenge.

Their onballers and centre line were still working well, along with the stable back line. Special mention to back pocket Alanna McKenna, who played her best game for the season, taking some of the weight off the

Bulldogs managed to score again, but so did Armstrong, and the Hawks finished the quarter in front.

The third quarter was an arm wrestle, and a kick from a pack saw the Bulldogs score first to put them in the lead for the first time.

This seemed to spur the girls on; Ammy Thompson got a great clearance from the centre, and the wingers and half forwards got the ball down to the full forward line where Armstrong put her fourth goal on the board.

Unfortunately, Bulldogs managed two more goals before the quarter ended, putting them nine points up at the break.

Starting the final quarter well, mids Charlotte Tilbrook, Trinny Preer, Gemma Couch Trinder and Thompson continued working hard. Taylah Cryer and Clare Collins were also working all around the ground.

However, Bulldogs were able to score again. The Hawks kept them at bay for a little while longer, but with six or seven minutes to go, the home side ran out of legs which allowed Bulldogs to score a few more goals to finish off the quarter.

Final score: Wangaratta Rovers 4.4 (28) lost to Thurgoona 9.4 (58).

Best: Alana McKenna, Mila Armstrong, Taylah Cryer, Amelie Thompson, Lucy Kiely, Charlotte Tilbrook.

LOBBED: Whorouly Cubs’ Allie Mckenzie lobs a pass over her opponent.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

GREAT CONTEST: Holly Podubinski (Whorouly Cubs) and Crystal Copeland (Tarrawingee Red) go head-tohead for the ball.

Lucy Mansfield, Lucy Keily, Makenzie Clarke and Ruby Bihun.

MILESTONE: Celia Piesse runs through her banner before Sunday's match.

Grady, Newton win in 200th

VICTORIAN

Super six for locals

Wangaratta horse trainers grab six winners throughout weekend with Weeding winning cup gggggp

THE weekend produced a whopping six winners for local horse trainers.

Craig Weeding, Andrew Dale and Ben Brisbourne all had successful weekends at Wagga, Narrandera, Corowa and Echuca.

Weeding’s Prince Of Helena ($6.50) was the highlight though, taking out race seven, the $50,000 Narrandera Cup (1600m) on Sunday.

The six-year-old gelding

BY WILLSON MACK

and apprentice jockey Holly Durnan settled at the back of the field before finding a run up the inside, chasing down Dan McCarthy’s Riddlero.

Weeding said

“We weren’t took keen on getting involved with the

early speed and we knew he’d be strong late so we went to the back,” Weeding said.

“Holly was clever and rode for a bit of luck up the inside and the luck came so it was a beautiful ride in the end.”

Prince Of Helena was handed a huge weight of 66kg but races at 63kg after engaging a 3kg apprentice claim.

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“We were never worried about his ability to carry the weight,” Weeding said.

“He’s carried big weights before so we knew he could do it, he’s a big strong horse.

“The concern was if a real light weight got out in front and whether we’d be able to chase it down.”

The victory qualifies Prince Of Helena for the $3 million Big Dance and $750,000 Little Dance at

Randwick on Melbourne Cup Day.

Racing NSW added the two races to the calendar in 2022 with the Little Dance for horses who are eligible for the Big Dance but couldn’t gain a start.

This year 28 country cups from across various regions of NSW will be used as qualifying races for the race, with the final field for the Big Dance drawn from the

winners and second-placed horses of these designated country cups.

“The only reason we wanted to run at Narrandera was because of the Big Dance,” Weeding said.

“We probably would’ve looked elsewhere for him because of the weight but his whole prep has been geared towards the Big Dance so we decided to run.

■ Continued page 17

REP

WANGARATTA footballer Blake Newton has been selected for the u15 Victoria Schoolboys team to play at the national championships at Ballarat from July 22-29

■ Story: Page 17

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling