ROLL up, roll up to the wonderful Great Moscow Circus which opened its Wangaratta season last night at the old rodeo grounds at the rear of the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
Armenian clown Girgak, along with dancers Valeria, Kasey, vocalist and ringmaster Elly, Tamika and Tianni, along with other world renowned performers are all set to wow audiences over the next week.
Story page 2 PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
23 redundancies at Merriwa Industries as cost of living pressure bites gp
WANGARATTA’S Merriwa Industries is looking to bounce back after having 23 full-time positions become redundant in recent months, off the back of a reduction in consumer demand due to high cost of living pressures.
Merriwa announced 13 redundant positions across its timbers and packaging divisions, due to a drop in sales, the result of a downturn in the economy.
There have also been two finance positions made redundant
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
as a result of the changes to these two divisions.
Prior to these redundancies in May, Merriwa had 10 people take up an offer of voluntary redundancy, including one team member living with a disability.
In total, across both phases of the process, were the equivalent
of 23 full-time positions affected.
Merriwa is one of the larger employers in Wangaratta, employing about 270 staff in an ‘integrating employment’ setting.
Around 150 staff members are people living with a disability.
All other divisions – Park Lane Nursery, contract services, Merriwa community services, and packaging divisions in Wodonga - have had no changes to their workforce numbers.
Merriwa CEO Bart Crawley cited the lack of new homes being
built as one of the major contributors to the reduction in demand for structural beams produced at the Greta Road site.
“This is the fifth consecutive year we will be making a loss and we just can’t keep holding on, hoping that the industry will pick up,” Mr Crawley said.
“Latest industry predictions are that it won’t be until 2026 that we will see a return to growth of any significance.”
■ Continued page 3
Remembering Jack with a smile
OBITUARY:
John (Jack) Dillon
8.1.1931 - 14.7.2024
By SIMONE KERWIN
IT speaks volumes for the way Jack Dillon lived his life that he’s being remembered with a smile by many fellow Wangaratta residents this week.
The renowned raconteur, patriarch and long-time local, who was the last surviving member of the Wangaratta Rovers’ inaugural Ov-
ens and Murray side, passed away on Sunday morning aged 93. Husband of Peta for 67 years, Jack was a father of 10 (Jackie, Peta-Lynne, Bernie, Sue, Gay, Clare, Monica, Carmel, Sally and Matt), grandfather of 30 and greatgrandfather of 26.
He was truly a ‘jack-of-alltrades’, having found work during his life as a welder, barman, and a driver of semi-trailers, petrol tankers, graders, interstate transports and school buses, as well as operating a petroleum depot
for several years while Peta ran her well-known hair and beauty salons, Bimbadeen and Top T Toe Grooming.
But it was Jack’s ready smile and his ability as an entertainer and storyteller - never afraid to add a little mayonnaise to a tale for best effectthat most endeared him to so many.
Jack told local historian Kevin Hill, for a story on his KB On Reflection blog, that his showman persona emerged when he was “only a little tacker”.
“I was about 10… we were at a
concert and one of the acts, an Irish tenor, didn’t turn up. The old man piped up and said: ‘That kid of mine’ll fill in… I’ll get him up’. I think I sang ‘Yellow Rose of Texas’, and it went over okay,” he said.
Those who have sung, laughed and danced through his performances over the years will always be grateful for that initial push onto centre stage, and will hold the memories he created close to their hearts.
Jack Dillon will be farewelled at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ford Street at 10am next Friday, July 26.
MUCH-LOVED: Jack Dillon passed away on Sunday morning, aged 93.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
DAREDEVIL motorbike
rider, Cruz Weber, has already been wowing the Wangaratta crowds at just 10 years of age.
The Weber family’s legacy in the circus industry goes back seven generations and the spirt of circus is alive and well in the 10- year-old with performing in his DNA.
Cruz rides his motorbike in the Globe of Death with The Great Moscow Circus as part of their all new extreme show, which commenced in Wangaratta last night at the old rodeo grounds and runs through until July 28.
Cruz has been performing under the Big Top nearly his whole life.
“I got my first motorbike for my third birthday and started riding the same day,” he said.
“I’ve been performing in The Great Moscow Circus since I was three, but only started in the globe when I was eight.
“It can be a little scary riding in the cage, but I’m used to it.”
Cruz was the youngest rider in the world to enter the death defying cage at
the age of eight.
“I feel proud to be the world’s youngest globe cage rider and I think it’s a really cool achievement,” he said.
With his parents Kathy and Jeff Weber managing the circus’ show tours, and performing alongside his older sisters, Cruz is well and truly part of the family business.
“My favourite thing about being in the circus is getting to practise in the globe and performing in front of new crowds every week,” Cruz said.
He manages being in school and being in the circus just like his older sisters did growing up with The Great Moscow Circus.
“I have a fulltime onsite
school teacher and school room, we do distance education so I go to school from 8am to 2pm and then I have the afternoon off and practice after the shows,” he said.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see Cruz perform his daredevil acts at The Great Moscow Circus in an all new extreme show,
featuring some of Australia’s top BMX and scooter riders, exciting trampoline, Russian Swing, the world’s best daredevil motorcycle cage riders, breath-taking aerial performances and much, much more.
For more information and to book your tickets, go to https://greatmoscowcircus. com.au/.
Train station carpark to close next week as work rolls on
By STEVE KELLY
THE Wangaratta Railway Station carpark will close to pedestrians and vehicles next Tuesday until Friday to make way for Inland Rail works. These changes are required while works are undertaken to relocate fire hydrant services, located under the carpark surface.
An Inland Rail spokesperson said between July 23-26, the station carpark will be closed to vehicles.
“Pedestrians will access the station from the Norton Street entrance and pathways within the carpark will be closed,” he said.
“Temporary bus dropoff and pick-up locations will be in place in Norton Street.
“V/Line staff will be onsite to direct passengers during this time and trains will continue as per the V/Line timetable.”
The carpark will reopen on July 27 with a reduced number of car parks available, and these temporary changes will continue until August 16.
“Access to the bike shed will be unavailable while these works are carried out,” the spokesperson said.
WILD WEBER: Watch Cruz Weber, the world’s youngest cage rider in the Globe of Death at The Great Moscow Circus in Wangaratta.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
NBL teams to play at our revamped stadium
■ From page 1
WANGARATTA’S $12.9 million basketball facility renovation will play centre stage for a match between South East Melbourne Phoenix and Brisbane Bullets in a pre-season clash ahead of the Hungry Jack’s NBL25 season, set for Thursday, August 29.
Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC) recently had its basketball stadium redeveloped in a $12.9 million collaboration between the State Government and the Rural City of Wangaratta.
Mayor, Dean Rees, is thrilled that this game will be part of the official stadium opening.
“Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre is proud to unveil our new premium show court to our local community and host this NBL preseason game,” Cr Rees said.
“Basketball continues to grow in popularity in the region, and this game will contribute to its growth.”
Wangaratta Basketball Inc president Adam Maher said the community has been waiting for the facility upgrade and more benefits that are going to drive basketball in the area.
“This has been a fantastic relationship to build between Phoenix and Wangaratta Basketball which has eventuated in the organisation of this event,” he said.
“It’s a great way to open the stadium up to showcase what it can offer at multiple levels from domestic, representative, Basketball Victoria events, and National Basketball League games.
“It’s a really big thing and it has been a while since something of this nature and this calibre has been in country Victoria.
“There are many athletes that come out of regional and country areas so this is a great way to show the kids that there is a big light at the end of the tunnel if they work hard and get all the way to this level.”
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
“This game will showcase our award-winning facilities and bring the community together,” Mr McGrath said.
“This is an exciting way to open the courts.
“This game will raise Wangaratta’s profile in the basketball community, and we believe this will be the first of many featured sporting games across multiple codes using the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s new stadium.”
The match is expected to attract people from across the region and will save people the three-hour trip down the freeway.
Some 900 local residents will be treated to the matchup between two of the most rejuvenated rosters in the competition, with this fixture the first time the likes of Derrick Walton Jr, Joe Wieskamp, Next Star Malique Lewis and a host of other recruits first feature for the Phoenix.
It will also be the first time Nathan Sobey faces his former team, after a long and storied career with the Bullets ended with his trade to the Phoenix in the off-season.
South East Melbourne CEO Tommy Greer said the game would be another opportunity for the Phoenix to get in front of a regional audience and showcase the game across Victoria.
“We’ve had great success heading regionally out to Traralgon, and this is another brilliant chance to get in front of a crowd that may not have the opportunity to watch elite sport regularly,” Greer said.
“This game also forms a huge part of our pre-season preparations so expect a highly-competitive, highly-entertaining bout.”
Rural city CEO Brendan McGrath said it was exciting for Wangaratta to host another high-profile sporting event in our region.
Tickets for the game between South East Melbourne Phoenix and Brisbane Bullets will go on sale via Ticketek on August 1.
The packaging division in Wangaratta is also experiencing a slowing of demand, as consumers tighten their spending and customer orders reduce in volume.
However, Mr Crawley said there is hope on the horizon as new business opportunities are coming on board.
“We are optimistic about opportunities we are working on for the packaging division and we anticipate being able to go back to actively recruit in the local labour market in around 12 months when we have recovered from the current challenges we face,” he said.
“We would welcome anyone whose position has been made redundant to apply at this time.”
Mr Crawley said Merriwa offered a comprehensive employee assistance program to support their staff who have been made redundant.
“Our care for employees is our first priority,” he said.
“We have provided counselling, career advice and jobseeking assistance by professional, external providers.
“This was a difficult time for all team members, so we took care to move through the process in an open and respectful way.”
Shop-theft: police looking to ‘ID’ man
to
and speak with a man
may be able to assist with an investigation into a shoptheft in the rural
If you have any information, please contact Wangaratta Police on 03 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Reference Number: 240269765.
current and potential families of Year 10 and 11 2025 are invited!
Thursday 25th July
Register via the QR code or on our website
NBL TEAMS TO PLAY IN CITY: South East Phoenix will play at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre next month against Brisbane Bullets. It’s a major coup for the city that will showcase the newly revamped facilities. Pictured is Phoenix guard Ben Ayre with the ball.
PHOTO: Kadek Thatcher/Phoenix Media
WANGARATTA police are seeking
identify
(pictured above) who
city.
Intersection accidents prompt police plea to give way
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
DRIVERS are being urged to show caution around a busy Wangaratta intersection after a weekend of minor collisions.
On Friday, July 5 at around 5pm and on Monday, July 8 at around 7pm, minor two-vehicle collisions were recorded at the Warby Street and Ryley Street intersection, with emergency services called.
Sergeant Shaun Hillier of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said there had been a number of collisons at the intersection, with most, if not all, appearing to be because of
REMAIN CALM: Police and Department of Transport and Planning representatives have urged drivers to show more calm when turning at the Warby Street and Ryley Street intersection.
driver error and failure to obey traffic signals.
“If a driver has already entered the intersection
when the traffic control signal turns yellow or red, a driver must exit the intersection as soon as safe to do so,”
he said.
“It appears some motorists are panicking to exit the intersection and fail to
give way to oncoming traffic that may have a green traffic control signal.”
A Department of Planning and Transportation spokesperson said in the five years up to June 2024, there were five recorded crashes at the intersection.
“The majority of these crashes have been caused by failure to obey traffic signals,” the spokesperson said.
“If a driver has already entered the intersection when the traffic light turns amber or red, a driver must exit the intersection as soon as safe to do so.
“We encourage all drivers who find themselves in this
position to remain calm, make a full assessment of the risks and proceed to exit the intersection when safe to do so.”
Sgt Hillier reiterated drivers to remain calm when giving way to oncoming traffic while at the intersection and exit when safe to do so.
“It certainly doesn’t mean you need to take unnecessary risks and turn in front of oncoming traffic,” he said.
Both Wangaratta police and the Department of Planning and Transport advised drivers to be wary of the conditions of the road, particularly during winter.
Rally to take a stand against family violence
THE Wangaratta and district community will be asked to unite and take a stand against family violence at a rally being organised in King George Gardens this month.
Newly formed local community group ‘Firey Lou’ has teamed up with national movement, What Were You Wearing, to put together the ‘No More’ rally against family violence at 10am on July 27.
Firey Lou founder, Shantelle van der Leeuw, said she was inspired to organise the rally after seeing similar rallies held nationwide earlier this year uniting more than 100,000 people.
“There was not one held in the North East region and many people from Wangaratta travelled to attend them,” she said.
“Being a regional area, conservative views are stopping us from progressing as well as city areas in regards to gender equality and community attitudes to prevention of violence.”
Ms van der Leeuw said this will be the organisation’s first event,
BY CHLOE
and she had been contemplating creating easily accessible content for young adults and teenagers on gender-based violence due to her background working as a prevention practitioner in a similar field.
“After creating the Facebook page, I connected with other professionals in the field who are so passionate they wanted to donate their personal time also which is how it turned into a community group,” she said.
“Connecting and meeting socially and being able to talk about what we are passionate about has filled a void we were all feeling, working in the space you always feel that we are not doing ‘enough’, this has helped fill that space and enjoy it working on projects we all are passionate about together.”
Ms van der Leeuw decided to partner with What Were You Wearing, an Indigenous not-forprofit with the aim of ending sex-
ual violence, as they aligned with many of Firey Lou’s core values.
“Their work in education, advocacy, and providing resources for survivors makes them an invaluable ally in our fight against violence,” she said.
“By collaborating with them, we amplify our impact, drawing on their expertise and national reach to foster a more informed and compassionate community.”
Through the rally, Ms van der Leeuw hopes to raise awareness for the impacts of domestic violence in our community, especially towards marginalised communities.
She also hopes this can act as an urgent call to action to the government to implement mandatory trauma informed training for first responders across Australia and increase funding for grassroots organisations in the domestic, family, sexual violence sector, including men’s behaviour change programs and women’s refuges.
The July 27 rally at King George Gardens will include a march and guest speakers including former
state MP Tania Maxwell, executive officer of LINE Wangaratta Allison Winters, Sophia Redjeb from What Were You Wearing, and family violence survivors who will share their stories.
The second part of the day will include the opening of the ‘What Were You Wearing’ exhibition, at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, which will display the clothes people were wearing when they were assaulted alongside their stories.
“The exhibition aims to spread awareness that sexual assault can happen to anyone, anywhere – no matter what they’re wearing,” Ms van der Leeuw said.
“It aims to take away that assumption that what you’re wearing can provoke abuse and to challenge community attitudes.”
Everyone is welcome to join the rally and Ms van der Leeuw said she is hoping more local organisations, services and politicians can get involved.
For more information visit the Firey Lou Facebook page or contact fireylou@gmail.com.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
NO MORE: Danielle Rondinella, Annika Stewart, Shantelle van der Leeuw, Melissa Harris, Jasmine Adams are encouraging people to stand with them against family violence.
PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke
Take two for Tarra Blues
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
A SMORGASBORD of live music will be available to locals and visitors to the district this pre-Melbourne Cup weekend, with the second annual Tarra Blues Festival extending to two days.
The festival, to be held in the grounds of the historic Plough Inn at Tarrawingee on November 2 and 3, complements the offering from the rejuvenated Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, which will run from November 1 to 4.
Tarra Blues 2 follows the success of last year’s one-day festival, which was staged on the Sunday of the traditional jazz festival weekend.
“We tried to cram too much into one day last year, so we’ve decided to run over two days this year,” Plough Inn licencee Phil Lithgow said.
Mr Lithgow said based on the response to last year’s event, and prior to a new board’s decision to continue with the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues for 2024, the Plough Inn had decided to “bite the bullet” and begin planning for its two-day event.
“There was really good
feedback that this was a nice, relaxing space,” he said.
“Most of the people who came here last year came from out of town, and they
were saying they were planning to book back into their accommodation for the following year.
“We see our event as sepa-
rate, but complementary to the jazz festival.
“We talked to (current Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues board chair) An-
drew Nunn before Christmas so the (new board was) aware of what we were doing.
“We are rapt that the jazz
festival is going again, because even before we had moved back to the region, we had heard all about the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.”
Performances at Tarra Blues 2 will run from 4pm to 10.30am on the Saturday and from 11am to 4.30pm on the Sunday, all in the relaxed grounds of the Tarrawingee hotel.
“All the artists from last year wanted to be part of it, so we have Fiona Boyes coming back, as a trio this time, with Blues Roulette back in a different form (‘The Commitments Show’), Rambal, a young band of talented performers from Melbourne, and local band Soli’s Blues performing,” Mr Lithgow said.
The line-up also includes the Sammy Owen Blues Band, Daryl Roberts, Charlie Bedford and Blue Sunday. There are 250 tickets on offer for Tarra Blues 2.
To book your spot, visit https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1226013
Meanwhile, as mentioned in Wednesday’s edition of the Wangaratta Chronicle, tickets are now on sale for the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
To check out the program and book your tickets for this event, visit www.wangjazzblues.com.au
RIGHT AT HOME: Fiona Boyes on stage in the grounds of the Plough Inn (inset) during last year’s Tarra Blues Festival. The veteran artist will return for the second annual event this November.
PHOTO: Sean Clohesy
Local businesswoman laps up two more award nominations
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
RACHEL York and her
small local home decor
business Amour De La Maison has been named finalists for two more Australian Small Business Champion category awards.
Following a finalist placing in the overall awards earlier in the year, she was nominated for two of the award’s sub category awards nights to be held on August 23 and 24.
The business was nominated as a finalist in both the women’s and trades national small business champion awards in the sole operator and home and garden improvement categories respectively.
Her finalist placings this year also follow a finalist finish in last year’s Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards.
Through all her success, Ms York has persevered through ongoing battles
with ovarian cancer in the past two years, while father and business partner John McCormack has also gone through his own cancer battles.
The predominantly online business operating out of a small studio in Kerr Street has continued to sell its furniture, décor and vintage prints to all parts of Australia including Darwin, Rockhampton, Alice Springs and all across the North East.
Nurturing inclusive, accessible workplaces a win for everyone
By JORDAN DUURSMA
LOCAL disability support group at Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW), the ‘Tidy Team’ is a peer support group run by employees for employees.
The purpose of the group is to provide a weekly catch up to touch base on workforce support, discussing what is and isn’t going well at work.
NHW disability support officer Tracey McGeehan, who facilitates the group,
said the Tidy Team is a group open to all NHW’s workforce with a disability.
“It’s a very organic and social group, it was developed because there were employees here with disabilities who didn’t have a group to belong to,” she said.
“It is also a time where Tidy Team members can help each other build on their advocacy skills and problem solving.
“Members support each other.
“There is a bit of a stigma
involved, that the support group is only open to employees with intellectual disabilities, but that’s not the case.
“I want the Tidy Team to be open to all different kinds of disabilities, we meet on a Monday for half an hour.”
In 2022, the Tidy Team was awarded highly commended runner up for Employment Outcomes from Victorian State Disability Awards.
“A couple of years ago my boss encouraged me to nominate the Tidy Team for the Victorian State Disability
Awards,” Ms McGeehan said.
“Funnily enough, out of Victoria, there were only two nominations for the Employment Outcomes category, and both were from Wangaratta.
“Where’s My Coffee came first, and the Tidy Team received a special consideration, it wasn’t about winning but it was validating for the employees to know they contribute.
Ms McGeehan said her passion is about equity, not equality.
“Equality means everyone has the same thing, but equity means each person has what they need to do their job,” she said.
“It’s about being open minded, there are different ways of doing things.
“In workplaces, equity is important in ensuring people with disability are given supports to achieve meaningful employment, which thus creates better mental health.
Small acts
Keep food scraps and garden clippings out of landfill. Using your green bin correctly means your organics can be turned into mulch and compost. This reduces the amount of waste going to landfill, keeps our soils healthy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
“Inclusive and accessible employment is a win win for both parties.”
The Tidy Team is just one part of the NHW’s Disability Action Plan for 2022-2025. Nominations for the Victorian State Disability Awards close today.
For any last minute nominations visit dffh.vic. gov.au/victorian-disabilityawards.
The awards ceremony to be held on Tuesday, December 3 will recognise individuals, groups and organisations that promote the rights and inclusion of people with disability.
BUILDING BLOCKS: Rachel York (left) and father and business partner John McCormack have lifted small home decor business Amour De La Maison to another two national award finalists placings.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Looking to slam brakes on Oxley hoon drivers
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
POLICE are looking to halt a spate of dangerous hoon driving behaviour at the Oxley Recreation Reserve over the past year.
The latest alleged offender was caught on Sunday, July 14, with the 19-year-old Wangaratta man having his vehicle impounded after doing burnouts at the reserve.
Local police supported by highway patrol officers located the man in Milawa and he will face court at a later date.
Sergeant Shaun Hillier of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said local police were continuing to work with the Oxley Recreation Reserve to bring a stop to repetitive dangerous driving behaviors.
“I would like to remind all motorists that there are serious consequences for engaging in these dangerous driving behaviours and we will not tolerate them,” he said.
“I would also like to encourage members of our community to report any dangerous driving behaviours they witness to Crime Stoppers.”
Oxley Recreation Reserve committee member, Tim Hart, said hoon driving at the reserve has been an ongoing issue for around 12 to 18 months, forc-
IMPOUNDED: This ute was impounded on Sunday after Wangaratta police tracked down a 19-year-old man who allegedly performed burnouts at the Oxley Recreation Reserve.
ing the committee to install security cameras and contact police to address the “frustrating” string of offending tearing up local grounds.
“The committee is disappointed the community is being targeted in this way,” he said.
“The reserve is licenced to a committee of management which is made up of volunteers who give up their time to ensure we have an outstanding community asset like the reserve to host community functions and allow camping.
“The committee attends to keep the grounds in beautiful condition, but we have sadly had hoon drivers tear up the grounds.”
The unique reserve backing onto the King River is used for equestrian activities and has a full-size cross-country course and horse yards.
It also has an oval where cricket is played, tennis courts and a fully fenced playground.
Mr Hart said repairs have been difficult to maintain, with the reserve reliant on limited funding and community donations to keep the 159-year-old reserve intact.
“We recently received flood grant money to repair one of the roads nearby and it’s just been torn to shreds by a fourwheel-drive,” he said.
“It’s frustrating because you may not hear anything for a couple of weeks, or a month, and then you get two incidents in a row.
“Hoon drivers have disturbed the grounds and disturbed the serenity for campers.”
Wangaratta police recently carried out an operation targeting hoon drivers across the rural city in late June, which included the impoundment of a car caught doing 170km/h along Tone Road.
Any witnesses to hoon driving locally can contact local police on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Driver flees after near-miss collision
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POLICE are investigating a near-miss collision in Yackandandah on Thursday morning, with one driver on the loose. Emergency services were called to a utility left on the side of Wodonga-Yackandandah Road at about 9am. Police
with a canopy on the rear, drove onto the wrong side of Wodonga-Yackandandah Road, narrowly missing two oncoming hatch-back cars.
The ute is believed to have hit an embankment before the driver fled on foot, leaving the car behind.
Neither vehicle occupants of the hatchbacks were injured. Anyone who witnessed
the incident or with dashcam or CCTV footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The incident follows a fatal two-vehicle collision on the same road near Allans Flat on Wednesday, July 10, which claimed the life of an 18-yearold Wodonga man and left two others seriously injured.
TORN UP: The Oxley Recreation Reserve has been the scene of multiple instances of hoon driving in recent months.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
WSAC upgrades are
paying off
THE big picture with any investment in infrastructure is difficult to see at the time planning for a project begins.
Millions of dollars has been pumped into the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre through federal and state governments grant money and also the hard-earned dollars from ratepayers.
The vision was to build a sporting mecca that is second to none in regional Victoria that is up to specifications to cater for national standard events.
With this week’s announcement that the National Basketball League (NBL) will be playing a pre-season match on the newly refurbished basketball court, the investment and the ‘big picture’ is manifesting in real terms.
The match will be the basketball equivalent of the AFL pre-season games that have been staged at the Norm Minns Oval over the years.
It’s expected that 900 people will be able to attend the NBL match between Phoenix and Brisbane Bullets on Thursday, August 29.
The new facilities are part of a $12.9 million renovation at WSAC, making them the most up to date in regional Victoria.
Like the adjoining aquatics facilities that are of FINA standard, the new basketball facilities have the ability to attract top level games to the region.
With this comes a whole suite of benefits and the planned basketball event is expected to be a substantial boost to the local economy.
Wangaratta has a strong basketball fraternity and no doubt they will make up the core of the audience on game day.
The event also offers others in the community who don’t get a chance to see basketball games in Melbourne to purchase tickets to this rare local event.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
FACEBOOK users commented on a proposed 10-unit development costing $3.5million at Garnet Avenue’s former Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps site that was given the green light by council.
• Shaun Oneil: Jay Ely looks like your house value is about to drop.
• VaL Am-Me: Awesome!! More housing is needed.
• VaL Am-Me: Ashleigh Cooper there are homeless
in ALL towns. Every town needs more low income housing.
• Mitch Giggins: Tamara Giggins har har enjoy traffic.
• Pam Gregory: Mitch Giggins Tamara Giggins according to the Council technical unit who addressed my concern of this ...there won’t be any difference in traffic to that of when the church operated.
• Dianne Topsahalidis: Pam Gregory two cars and a mini bus on a Sunday.
Information centre to boost tourism
RURAL City of Wangaratta’s draft Economic Development & Tourism Strategy 2024-2029 is now on public display for consultation (until August 2).
This is the strategy or ‘plan’ if you like, to improve economic development in our municipality and specifically looks at how tourism fits into that plan.
The strategy promotes among other things increased tourism marketing and awareness, improving the length of visitor stays in the region and advocating our rural city as a premier, year-round destination.
While there are many worthy aspirations, it seems council is having trouble seeing the forest for the trees when it comes to tourism.
The best way to promote tourism, and achieve many of those aspirations, would be to have a dedicated tourist information centre in the Wangaratta township – a facility anyone visiting our region would expect.
We don’t, however, have such a facility.
We have a few brochures available under the stairwell at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, on the wall at the Ned Kelly Discover Hub in Glenrowan and in some township satellite stands, but we do not have a dedicated, highly visible, proactive and knowledgeable one-stop-shop in our major urban area.
Beechworth, Yackandandah, Rutherglen, Myrtleford and Bright etc all have very active and vibrant centres promoting their local regions, providing expert local advice, and selling local produce and souvenirs.
Wangaratta does not.
The reason we do not is because, according to council’s Visitor Service Strategy (June 2021), the cost of operating the former tourist information centre in Murphy Street ($275,459 in 2019/20) outweighed the benefits.
The same strategy states most (83 per cent of visitors to the King Valley region) use their smartphone to access information, it also states that visitors sought information from tourism centres (16 per cent), through brochures (15 per cent), word of mouth (27 per cent), maps (13 per cent) and tourism publications (9 per cent).
That is a total of 80 per cent that could be accommodated through a well-resourced tourist information centre.
It must also be noted that the study covered the King Valley region specifically, so visitors had already decided on their destination rather than, as is the function of a pro-active tourist information centre, letting visitors know what else is available in the area, and promoting unexpected attractions and activities.
It is worth mentioning that, according
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
• Jon Steele: That’ll be 40 bins. On a curve.
• Leslie Matthews: Excellent result......cue the ‘but what about me’ comments.
• Dianne Topsahalidis: Overcrowded.
• Georgina Rea: G ood job everyone.
• Shirley Cormack: The area will go downhill now. Over crowding no parking on a bad bend at the best of times. Garbage collection will be a nightmare imagine an
extra 20 bins on that bend.
Facebook users also commented on Whorouly dairy farmer John Pethybridge saying opening milk prices from most processors has fallen well short of expectations and continues to put an unfair squeeze on farmers.
• Kay Schneider: Poor calves.
• William Magnus: Screwed by big business. Shame that co ops not operative
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
14,910
to the Visitor Services Strategy, the fastest growing demographic of visitors to our region is the “older couple” (35 per cent), who are perhaps not as likely to rely on smartphone information as having a yarn with someone local.
Come on council, before you start the costly process of “rebranding” and developing more strategies, how about you get back to basics and get serious about promoting our region and enhancing the visitor experience.
After all, one of council’s self-declared five core functions relating to economic and tourism development is “advocate” – in other words, publicly support and recommend. That sounds a lot like a tourist information centre to me,
Jennifer Garrett, Whorouly
WPAC funding is money well spent
IT pleased me to learn the 2024/25 budget, endorsed recently by Wangaratta Council, included funding for technology and equipment upgrades to the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.
I consider this money well spent.
We are only mid way through the 2024 Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre program but already I feel congratulations are due to venue manager Tanya Camplin and her staff for their
work and vision for Wangaratta.
In particular, champagne and bouquets to you all for such an innovative Black Box program over 10 jam-packed days in June.
It felt like a mini arts festival where you look at the program and wish you could attend everything.
I enjoyed three of these shows, each one contemporary, Australian and completely original.
I very much hope planning is underway to offer a 2025 Black Box program, in the same historic space, Gallery 2.
It was very satisfying to be given the chance to see innovative theatre and high quality music productions in this historic community space.
Cassandra Pollock, Wangaratta
is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility. Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Post Letters
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: St Michael’s Craft Group generously donated $100 to the Wangaratta SES Unit. Pictured at the donation handover are (from left) Peter Moncrieff, Jess Zuber, Lyn Johnston, Carol Stemp, Vincent McKenzie and Damian French.
FACEBOOK users this week commented on local Auskick president, Ben Watts, being nominated for two AFL awards.
• Hayley Currie: Awesome Ben!
• Ashlee Simon: Fantastic Ben Watts!
• Garry Mckenzie: Congratulations on your nomination Ben
• Jacqueline Hobbs: Awesome Ben Watts!!
• Karli Vincent: Congrats Ben! Well deserved recognition for your efforts
• Kat Burke: The best
• Paul Mitchell: Well done Ben Watts
• Tom Mullane-Grant: Excellent stuff Ben Watts, worthy nominee
• David Thayer: Legend
• Wangaratta Magpies Football & Netball Club: Well deserved nominations Ben Watts Facebook users also commented on the Monaro Nationals being held in Wangaratta.
• Steve Cant: Awesome work
• Luke ‘stano’ Stanton: Modelling career? Greg Wheeler Facebook users this week
also commented on a local vet urging pet owners to desex their companion animals.
• Bonnie Wilson: Would be good if everyone desexed their cats so many living on streets because irresponsible people don’t desex their cats and its the mummas and babies who pay the sad price
• Melissa Brown: Monica is great Facebook users this week also commented on a ute being stolen from the Woolworths car park.
• Connie Adamo: Never leave keys in car that just saying take me
• William Magnus: Connie Adamo and it may well leave you subject to a fine ……it’s an offence
• Bobby Boss: All the publicity. All the education. And you still leave the keys in the car Facebook users this week also commented on local NAIDOC Week celebrations.
• Linda Simpson: Great to see.
• Nathan Andrew: Acknowledgement of local country
X USERS this week tweeted on a business workshop being held in Wangaratta, the sad passing of local footy legend Jim Sandral and the Wangaratta’s homeless shelter.
Business Victoria @businessvic
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
14,917
Tweet
Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.
Wondering what a good online presence looks like in 2024? Join us in #Wangaratta for our ‘Taking Your Business Online’ #workshop! Learn the essentials of a strong online presence, set up quickly and costeffectively, no matter your tech skills. Wangaratta RoversFNC @wangrovers Condolences to the Sandral family. Jim was certainly a local legend of the @omfnl and Coreen FNL. Equanimity500 @equanimity500
I hope this catches on across Australia ... “Wangaratta churches offer solution to homelessness during freezing winter”
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
BENALLA TREE CLEARANCE
The Craig Weeding-trained Prince Of Helena has gone back-to-back to win the $60,000 Narrandera Cup. A terrific ride by Jason Lyon, the Wangaratta galloper triumphed.
NSW Country and Picnic Racing @picnic_racing
We hope our Wangaratta mob had a great day at VACCA’s NAIDOC community gathering yesterday! Thank you to everyone who came out to spend the day with community and help our children and young people celebrate NAIDOC Week.
Gateway Health marks 10-year anniversary
By JORDAN DUURSMA
GATEWAY Health has marked 10 years as the region’s leading community health service.
This month marks the anniversary of the merger of Gateway Community Health, formerly known as Upper Hume Community Health, and Ovens and King Community Health.
Gateway Health services a catchment of more than 170,000 rural and regional people across 12 local government areas and employs more than 400 staff across multiple sites, providing more than 87,000 hours of health and wellbeing services.
Gateway Health chief executive officer Trent Dean said the organisation’s strength is in its staff and deep connections to the communities it serves.
“Our people are our greatest asset and our ability
to adapt to changing environments, to changes in technology and to meet the needs of the community holds us in good stead as we consider the next decade to come and beyond,” he said.
“One of our longest-serving team members has been with the service for 29 years and has been instrumental in the changing technology around health information and ensuring that our decisions are informed by the regional data.
“Within the region, as a community health organisation we have been here for many decades, the 10 year milestone is the coming together of these two entities, which is what we are celebrating under the banner of Gateway Health.
“We are continuing to meet the needs in what is a very challenging environment, both from the socioeconomic needs in our community and the fund-
ing deficits and shortfalls to ensure our programs are sustainable going into the future.
“Hearing from our board members, too, of their admiration for our staff and what they do in the community every day, tells me that the organisation will continue to make a real difference.”
The service marked the milestone with a refresh of its six-year Strategic Plan.
“With our new strategic plan, we are looking to reduce the health inequity in our community and supporting those priority populations which need the services most, those at the greatest risk of the poorest health outcomes,” Mr Dean said.
“A refresh of the strategic plan, in consultation with our board and senior staff, means we have a solid blueprint to guide our growth and development.
“We need to continually
improve our services and diversify our offerings to ensure we are sustainable and able to meet the needs of those at highest risk of poor health outcomes.”
The anniversary was celebrated with a cake-cutting
ceremony to launch the new Strategic Plan which is now available on the organisation’s website.
While Gateway Health receives government funding to support the work it does, it is open to donations and
sponsorship to help it continue the vital work it does for those experiencing diverse health and wellbeing needs.
To make a donation visit
gatewayhealth.org.au/getinvolved/donations/.
$33m Co-Store development to open August 14
FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2014.
BY SIMONE KERWIN
SEVEN years’ work will come to fruition next month when the completed Co-Store complex opens its doors to the public.
The $33 million development, which includes Wangaratta’s new Target store and a three level car park, has been on the cards since mid-2007.
Much work went into developing the project, with plans finally announced in 2012, and construction getting under way in April last year.
And for James Scremin, director of Prudential Commercial Investments Pty Ltd which owns the Co-Store, yesterday’s handover of the completed building works from Joss Construction was a satisfying milestone.
tenants were new businesses, one local and one national.
vibrancy as a town.
“But to me, the job’s not finished until the centre is fully open and vibrant,” Mr Scremin said.
10 years ago 10 years ago
The new section of the Co-Store, developed over 15 months by 525 construction workers, features seven other shop spaces leading to the Target store.
Only one of these will be filled when Target opens on August 14, with The Reject Shop to relocate from its current position close to the Co-Store’s original entrance, to the shop next to Target.
However, Mr Scremin said negotiations were continuing with local and national traders interested in filling the remaining spaces, and some of these could be announced early next week.
He said two of these prospective
Mr Scremin anticipated it would take another six months to fill the new shop spaces, which include other shops to the right of Target, as well as a number of vacant shops in the original section of the complex.
A second Wangaratta Subway store has been confirmed as one of the tenants moving into the original area, where it will take over the former Pavion Fashions space.
Mr Scremin said there could be up to 75 staff employed across the specialty shops in the complex once they are filled, in addition to 30 staff at Target.
He said development of the centre showed PCI’s confidence in Wangaratta’s retail future.
“There haven’t been too many shopping centres developed in the last few years, especially not in regional areas,” he said.
“To me, Wangaratta has a lot of
“It’s a nice place to shop, walk around and visit, and we were very mindful that the project enhance that, and not detract from it.
“There are a lot of other cities where town planning has detracted from the vibrancy of a city, but that’s not the case here.
“If people disperse, it affects the atmosphere, but here everything is close together and easily accessible, so that’s definitely an opportunity Wangaratta has, that when you walk around there are people in cafes and in business, and it’s busy.”
Mr Scremin said the car park, which will be accessed from Victoria Parade, was designed to be in an elevated position where it could be effective, while not detracting from the amenity of the area.
The car park will also open on August 14, with roadworks and streetscaping in Victoria Parade continuing on track.
IT’S ALL YOURS: Site manager Scott McLeod of Joss Construction hands over the completed CoStore redevelopment to Prudential Commercial Investments Pty Ltd director James Scremin, and PCI’s Ben Frazer. PHOTO: Luke Plummer
10 YEAR MILESTONE: Gateway Health’s chief executive officer Trent Dean and executive director Jacki Eckart cutting a cake to mark the occasion.
Volunteers called to get planting in Oxley Sunday
By ANITA MCPHERSON
LOCAL residents and anyone interested in helping restore the habitat of the beautiful King River in Oxley, are invited to join a community planting event being held this Sunday morning from 10am.
The Milawa, Markwood, Oxley Landcare Group, together with Oxley Residents Association, will be planting local native species along a section of river they recently cleared.
The event also celebrates Planet Ark’s National Tree Day; a call to action for all Australians to get their hands dirty, give back to their community and take care of their environment.
Resident Sally Day said a group of locals who walk the site regularly noticed how overrun it had become with weeds and initiated a project to clean it up earlier this year.
Ms Day said weed species, many of which had escaped from gardens including Broad-leaved Privet, Apple, Cottoneaster, Desert Ash, Box Elder and Ivy, had become so prolific they blocked the view of the river.
“We had several working bees in April to clean up the site, supported by Landcare and a Landmate crew from the Beechworth Correctional Centre,” she said.
“We lopped all the woody weeds and they were dragged up
WELL PREPARED: Residents and local Landcare members from the Oxley region and surrounds have removed trailer loads of invasive weeds in preparation for planting, which will take place on Sunday.
and loaded into trailers - we really couldn’t have done it without them.”
Ms Day said the tired workers enjoyed a well-deserved break and refreshments together, sitting outside at the King River Café - something the Landmate crew members were thrilled to be able to do.
She said the area was raked and cleared, and the Rural City of Wan-
garatta also assisted by spraying out the blackberry and ivy.
“It was a really lovely community project,” she said.
On Sunday it’s hoped around 220 local native species will be planted along the site including River Bottlebrush, Sweet Bursaria, Golden Wattle, Gold-dust Wattle, Rough-barked Honey Myrtle, Tree Violet, River Tea Tree and Ovens Wattle, to complement the
magnificent River Red Gums.
The planting session will be held on Sunday, July 21 from 10am until 12pm with all welcome, morning tea provided and RSVP appreciated for catering purposes to landcare.kerrie@ gmail.com.
Meet near the Oxley Memorial Park and bring your own gardening gloves, a shovel (if possible) and sturdy shoes.
Clean Up Wangaratta encourage reporting of trolleys
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
CLEAN Up Wangaratta (CUW) are encouraging the community to report the littering of shopping trolleys across the city.
Coinciding with their Plastic Free July efforts, CUW are looking to spread awareness of the available resources to return trolleys off the local streets and waterways, which has been identified as a relevant issue in recent years.
According to Rural City of Wangaratta Council’s website, shopping trolleys not returned to their owners are considered litter and can be a hazard to pedestrians, have an environmental impact on drains and waterways and make for an uneasy sight in our parks and reserves.
CUW and council recommended the use of the Snap, Send, Solve app, which enables anyone to report an abandoned trolley by taking a photo and sending it to the relevant authority, or council.
The app does not require a phone call or email.
If calling in a trolley is still your preferred method, call Trolley Tracker on 1800 641 497 - it can take reports of abandoned trolleys belonging to Woolworths, Big W, and Dan Murphy’s.
For all other retailers, council recommends getting in touch with them directly.
CUW has executed focused clean ups on trolleys in our waterways in recent years, cleaning trolleys out of One Mile Creek.
ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH
WANGARATTA
The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.
Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.
Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.
THEO Mills
THEO Mills was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Tuesday, July 2 at 4:57pm and weighed 3.7kg (8lb 2oz). He is the brother of Elijah and the son of Hayley Durnford and Cody Mills of Corowa.
ANDREW Jacob
ANDREW Jacob was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, July 11 at 9:59am and weighed 3.73kg (8lb 3oz). He is the brother of Anton, Andrea and Angela Jacob and the son of Jisha Cyriac and Anto Jacob of Wangaratta.
Second consecutive small vintage in 2024
THE Australian wine grape crush increased year-on-year by nine per cent in 2024 to an estimated 1.43 million tonnes according to the national vintage report 2024 released by Wine Australia.
Vintage 2024 follows a 23year low crush in 2023 and, despite the growth, this year’s crush is still well below the 10year average of 1.73m tonnes.
Wine Australia manager, market insights, Peter Bailey, said there had been a declining trend in the Australian wine grape crush over the past few years.
“This is the third vintage in the past five that has been below the 10-year average,” he said.
“As a result, we’ve seen the five-year average decrease by over 100,000 tonnes in the past two years.
“However, the reduction in the crush doesn’t necessarily reflect a decrease in the underlying supply base.
“There is no indication that the vineyard area has declined significantly, so the potential for a large crop still exists without active management of yields.”
The overall year-on-year increase in the crush was 112,000 tonnes.
This was driven entirely by white wine grape varieties, which increased by 117,000 tonnes (19 per cent) to 722,000 tonnes. Despite the 19 per cent in-
crease, the white varieties crush was still 10 per cent below the 10-year average and the second smallest in 17 years.
The crush of red grapes declined by just under 5000 tonnes (one per cent) to 705,000 tonnes, the smallest since the drought-affected 2007 vintage, and 40 per cent below its peak of 1.2 million tonnes in 2021.
The white wine grape share of the crush increased to 51 per cent – the first time since 2014 that the white crush has been higher than the red crush.
“The overall reduction in
the red crush is entirely driven by Shiraz, which decreased by nearly 48,000 tonnes while most other red varieties increased,” Mr Bailey said.
“This decrease was not just from the inland regions, with the Barossa and Clare Valleys accounting for one-third of the reduction.
“Seasonal factors have contributed to 2024 being another small vintage.
“However, the significant further reduction in the red crush can be largely attributed to decisions made by grape
growers and wine businesses to reduce production.
“These decisions are being driven by low grape prices, significant red wine stock overhangs and reduced global demand for wine.”
The grape crush value of the 2024 vintage is estimated to be $1.01 billion, a two per cent increase over the previous year.
This was a result of the nine per cent increase in the tonnage being offset by an overall decrease in the average value from $642 per tonne to $613 per tonne.
DELILAH Audrey McWilliams Enter
to
DELILAH Audrey McWilliams was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, July 15 at 1:49pm and weighed 3.77kg (8lb 4oz). She is the sister of Oscar and Benji and the son of Rebekah and Michael McWilliams of Wodonga.
your own
of a galloping history of humanity and horses
FROM New York Times bestselling author Timothy C. Winegard comes a fascinating story of ‘The Horse’ and how it has shaped human history.
The Horse is an epic history that begins more than 5500 years ago on the windswept grasslands of the Eurasian Steppe when the first horse was tamed and an unbreakable bond with humans was forged, a bond that transformed the future of humanity.
In the book, Winegard explores the relationship between human and horse throughout history, exploring how the horse has carried the fate of civilisations on its powerful back.
Combining analysis with anecdote, he chronicles how across the ages horses were the primary mode of transport, an essential farming machine, a
steadfast companion and a formidable weapon of war. The horse has influenced so many facets of human life and widened the scope of human ambition and achievement - from the thundering cavalry charges of Alexander the Great to the streets of New York during the Great Manure Crisis of 1894 and beyond, horses have been integral to both the grand arc of history and people’s everyday lives.
The Horse will be available at local bookstores, Edgars Books & News and BookTique from Tuesday, July 30. For the chance to win one of three copies of the book, visit https://www. wangarattachronicle. com.au/competition to enter giveaway, competition closes on Tuesday, July 30.
Moyhu Hotel: Country pub at heart of community
with MELISSA & GLEN
JUST a short drive from Wangaraa, Moyhu is not a large township, but its community spirit and pride are unmistakable.
The Moyhu Hotel is a classic old-style country pub and loved meeting spot for locals and visitors alike.
Melissa and her husband Glen, the heart and soul of the establishment, have turned a spontaneous idea into a thriving hub of the town.
“When I came home from work about nine years ago, my husband told me he had made an oer on the Moyhu Hotel,” Melissa recalled.
“At first, I was shocked, then I saw the potential it had to become something special for our community.”
The hotel and pub had been closed for several months, the purchase provided an opportunity to revive the local establishment and create a welcoming space for everyone.
With a background in hospitality and a passion for local produce, Melissa and Glen embarked on a journey to bring the pub back to life.
“The pub was initially derelict, and we undertook a 3.5-week renovation to reopen it,” she explained.
The doors of the Moyhu Hotel oicially reopened on November 6, 2016.
Today, the Moyhu Hotel
is known for its welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and its role as a local gathering place.
The establishment features eight rooms with a bustling kitchen designed by Glen.
“He worked in the kitchen for the first two years, developing our menu and serving the community,” Melissa said.
“Since reopening we’ve had 100% local staff and have employed many local kids as soon as they were of legal working age. It’s amazing to see their development and the impact we’ve had on their lives.” Melissa
Their dedication to quality and local produce has earned them a loyal customer base, especially among the locals who frequent the hotel for its famed Parma nights on Wednesdays.
However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges.
From the devastating bushfires to the COVID-19 pandemic, Melissa and her team have faced significant hurdles.
“The bushfires nearly ended us. Trade completely halted, and it was
established the Moyhu Hotel as a classic old-style country pub and loved meeting spot
a very scary time,” Melissa said.
Just as they began to recover, the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“We adapted quickly, oering takeaway meals, and maintaining strict safety protocols. This resilience helped us build a stronger customer base post-pandemic,” she said.
Melissa and Glen take great pride in employing local children and watching them grow.
“Since reopening we’ve had 100 per cent local sta and have employed many local kids as soon as they were of legal working age,” Melissa said.
“It’s amazing to see their development and the impact we’ve had on their lives.”
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This commitment to the community extends beyond the hotel and pub and contributes to the positive growth of Moyhu.
Looking forward, Melissa is excited about expanding their oerings and hosting more events.
“We plan to utilise our outdoor space more as the weather warms up and look forward to hosting intimate music festivals and themed nights,” she said.
The community’s support has been vital, Melissa and Glen are eager to continue providing a welcoming space for both locals and visitors.
Melissa’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is candid and cautionary: “Don’t do it,” she said
with a laugh, before expanding.
“It’s certainly been one of the most challenging things we’ve done, but also the most rewarding.
“It’s a steep learning curve. The biggest thing is to trust yourself and not listen to all the feedback you get, whether it’s negative or positive.
“You’ve got to be able to look forward and pave your own path.”
The Moyhu Hotel remains a cornerstone of local heritage and community spirit, thanks to Melissa and Glen’s dedication and passion. Their journey of transformation and resilience continues to inspire others to embrace opportunities and contribute positively to their communities.
HEART OF MOYHU: Melissa, Glen and son Teddy have
for locals and visitors alike.
The Moyhu Hotel
Faces of Small Business
The Dunners out to have fun in next Battle of the Bands
By SIMONE KERWIN
FRESH from two successive wins at Wangaratta’s Battle of the Bands, The Dunners are preparing for another tilt at the title this October.
The group, comprising four mates who are year 11 and 12 students at Wangaratta High School, advanced to last January’s grand final of the North East Battle of the Bands series following their performance at The Vine in late 2023.
In 2022, they were the winners of the Wangaratta battle’s band category, earning them the chance to warm the stage for Mollyrocket and Suzi at the Beats Fest all ages gig held in the rural city.
Drummer Edan van Bergen said he and bandmates Josh Robertson (bass), Xav
Zachariou (keys) and Ollie Chambers (guitar/vocals) were looking forward to another chance to perform in the competition, to be held on October 20 at The Vine.
“It’s always fun to perform...we’re probably a bit more relaxed this time,” he said.
“In the first one, we went in super stressed and had practised heaps, and had scripted everything we were going to say between songs.
“We’ve won it twice, and we’d love to win it again, but now we just go out and have lots of fun.”
Edan said the Battle of the Bands final held in Benalla in January had been a great opportunity to connect with other bands who suited their “vibe”.
“We had a show with one of them in Melbourne,” he said.
“Until the grand final, we didn’t know many bands with a similar vibe to us in our area, other than solo acoustic artists, so it was great to get to know others.”
Having performed over recent months in Benalla, Melbourne, Euroa and Wandiligong, The Dunners
have also released three singles on Spotify, with a fourth unveiled late last week.
They will follow this with an EP out soon.
After two years of performing together, Edan said the band felt much more comfortable with its main set.
“Now we’ve got a full set of originals, but we also like to do some covers which are really fun to play - a few Sticky Fingers songs, and some from Beddy Rays and Great Gable,” he said.
“It’s still hard to define our music - we’re not sticking to any particular genre.
“A lot of bands have one song that takes off and then they release an album where every song has the same sound, but we just like to play what sounds good.”
A good number of artists have already signed up for the October 20 Wangaratta Battle of the Bands.
Entry to the competition is free, and open to local solo musicians, duos and bands of all genres aged between 12 and 25.
Artists must perform two or three songs per act, or for a maximum of 15 minutes,
Explore death, grief and loss at
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THERE’S still time to ask the questions you are dying to know and explore grief and loss at local ‘GOOD2GO’ festival events.
Events presented by North East Funerals, Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW), Hume Region Palliative Care Consortium, Clydes on Murdoch, End Stage Matters, Mason Park Funerals and supported by funding from Murray PHN through the Australian Government’s PHN Program range from film screenings, death cafes,
information sessions and a gala event as the grand finale.
Rose Sexton co-founder of End Stage Matters and member of NHW’s Community Palliative Care Team said it’s time to bring death out of the shadows.
“By bringing it out of the shadows and sharing our experiences, we become more empowered to care for each other,” she said.
Death Cafes will be held on Friday, July 19 at the Beechworth Library at 10am, Friday, June 26 at Chiltern Community Hub at 10am and
www.corcoranparker.com.au
Monday, August 5 at Clydes on Murdoch at 10am.
Information sessions will be held on Thursday, July 25 at The Centre at 10am discussing ‘caring at home’ and Thursday, August 1 at The Centre at 10am discussing ‘what happens after’.
Film Screenings of ‘Live The Life You Please’ will be held on Thursday, July 25 at The Lodge of St John in Beechworth at 6:30pm and Tuesday, August 6 at Respect St John at 2pm. Expo on ‘Dying To Know Day’ will be held on Thursday, August 8 at Wangaratta
Masonic Hall from 10am to 3pm, it will be a safe place to ask questions you’ve been dying to have answered by professionals.
A gala event will be held at Swanpool Cinema on Wednesday, August 7 from 6pm to 9pm, the event includes screening of ‘Live The Life You Please’, champagne and nibbles followed by a discussion panel with special guest Dr Mark Boughey, with a cost of $15.
For more information visit https://endstagematters. com/clone-of-home/goodto-go/.
at the event, and performances must be appropriate for viewing by a young audience.
Songs do not have to be original, but a bonus point will be awarded for each original song.
Performers from the Rural City of Wangaratta, Mansfield, Benalla, Alpine, Indigo, Moira, Strathbogie, Towong and Albury shires are eligible to enter the competition, and other events which form part of the North East Battle of the Bands series.
Once a performer has won one of the events in the series, they cannot participate in others, as they will have already advanced to the final.
To sign up for the Wangaratta Battle of the Bands, visit https://forms.office.com/r/ QqTG6A8mgn
FUN TO PERFORM: The Dunners - Xav Zachariou, Ollie Chambers, Edan van Bergen and Josh Robertson - will again compete in the Wangaratta Battle of the Bands.
Stephen Hall comes to Edi Upper hall
SEE Mad As Hell star Stephen Hall perform his hit one-man show at the Edi Upper hall in the King Valley tonight.
Stephen Hall will present Letters From My Heroes (if they’d actually bothered to write back), weaving together impressions of some of his favourite stars of the stage and screen.
Presented by King Valley Arts Presents, tickets are $30 which includes a delicious supper courtesy of the hall committee (drinks available at bar prices) with doors open at 6.30pm and the show starting at 7pm, available at Humanitix, or visit kingvalleyarts.com.au/stephen-halls-lettersfrom-my-heroes/.
Art exhibition by Georgina Wills
AN exhibition of collage artworks by Georgina Wills is open at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street this weekend.
Cut ‘n’ Paste is the first solo exhibition by the resident artist, featuring a selection of smallscale works of collage in an illustrative style which reflect observations and tiny details within a scene.
It is open today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm and entry is free.
Amy Winehouse show at The Vine
SINGER Laura Davidson and a full band will perform Amy Winehouse’s classic album ‘Back to Black’ track for track, plus other gems, at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta this weekend.
The show “Amy, Amy Amy!” celebrates the brief yet powerful career of Amy Winehouse, paying tribute to the artist’s edgy songwriting and unforgettable voice.
Friday night’s show has sold out but reserve seating tickets are still available for Saturday night’s show at thevinehotel.net.au.
Wang Repair Café at market this Sunday
THE Wang Repair Café will be at the Wangaratta Community Market, located at Moore Than Swimming on Mason Street, this Sunday from 8am to 12pm.
Volunteers will be on hand to repair mechanical items, electronics, tools, furniture, clothing and more, to help keep them out of landfill.
GREAT FAMILY FUN UNDER THE BIG TOP:
Under the banner of the Great Moscow Circus, deathdefying acts from around the globe are touring Victoria for the first time since 2021 including an extended season in Wangaratta running until Sunday, July 28. This touring company features carefully chosen superstars from Armenia, Ukraine, Brazil, Columbia, Greece, New Zealand and Australia and continues to entertain millions throughout Australia and New Zealand.
This new ‘extreme’ show features daredevil BMX and Pro Scooter riders, hair-raising multi-motorcycle cage riders and a world record acclaimed pole act.
Their Armenian clown Gagik has been revered as ‘the funniest in the world’, the Wheel of Death, electrifying high tricks on the trampoline (pictured), aerial acts and a mind-blowing trapeze act will also thrill the crowd.
The Big Top will be set up at the rear of the Showgrounds Entertainment Precinct (the old rodeo ground) with entry via Golf Links Lane.
For more information and to book your tickets go to www.thegreatmoscowcircus.com.au, visit them on Facebook or call 0497 MOSCOW (667 269).
Chiltern jam session this weekend
CHILTERN will come alive this weekend with jam sessions, open mics and poetry readings at multiple venues on Saturday and Sunday, including the Ironbark Tavern, Telegraph Hotel and Lulu and Didge Café, with entry free.
Musicians of all standards are welcome to come and jam at the drop in sessions or perform at the open mics, while moving between venues. There will also be a record, CD and collectables fair at the Senior Citizens Hall from 9am until 5pm
both days, with more information including sessions times on the Chiltern Jam Weekend Facebook page.
The Good exhibition at Wangaratta Art Gallery
THE Good, a major new solo exhibition by artist Anna Louise Richardson, is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
Working primarily in charcoal and graphite, Richardson’s work explores ideas of intergenerational exchange, parenthood and identity based on her experiences of living and working on a multigeneration beef cattle farm in rural Australia. It explores the complex relationships between humans and the natural world, tinged by grief and the competing demands of nurturing new life, and will run until August 11.
Fearless tapestry weavings at gallery
FEARLESS is an exhibition of tapestry weavings by Flossie Peitsch which is open in Gallery 2
MOTORING HISTORY:
Meet mechanic, trailblazer and entrepreneur Alice Anderson, the driving force behind Melbourne’s first all-female mechanical garage, when the Garage Girls arrive at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Sunday.
After earning her stripes as a qualified mechanic, ‘Miss Anderson’s Motor Service’ opened in 1919 in Cotham Road, Kew when Alice Anderson was just 22 years old, selling fuel and repairing motor vehicles. Garage Girls is a theatrical production inspired by Ms Anderson’s famous workshop and part history, part farce, part who-done-it, it shines a light on one remarkable young woman’s short but eventful life.
See the show on Sunday at 2pm, with tickets $25, available at wpacc.com.au.
at the Wangaratta Art Gallery until August 4. The artist’s textile practice is informed by the history of women’s craft work, particularly the quilting traditions passed down through the matrilineal generations of her family.
Fearless brings together a body of work created over the past seven years, informed by her experiences as an educator in very remote Indigenous communities and her close familial relationships, as one of four sisters.
Wangaratta community market on sunday
THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.
Stalls are available for $20 each (a winter special, no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page.
PHOTO: Darren Hill
The elusive Feathertailed Glider
By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS
UNBEKNOWN to many of us, a tiny, nocturnal and highly secretive marsupial exists in our local forests and woodlands.
Even to experienced observers, sightings of Feathertailed Gliders are very rare in the North East, or indeed anywhere throughout their range.
Normally, nocturnal animals such as possums and gliders can be relatively easily seen at night whilst spotlighting – their eyes giving reflective shine.
Feather-tailed Gliders, however, with their tiny eyes and habit of moving along the upper surfaces of tree limbs rarely give any sort of eye shine, making them extremely difficult to detect.
In addition, their agility and small size enables them to move swiftly and almost silently through the treetops.
more than 20m between trees.
The Feather-tailed Glider is the smallest gliding mammal in the world with an average weight of only 12g – about the weight of a chocolate freddo frog!
Like the more familiar Squirrel Glider and Krefft’s (Sugar) Glider, Feather-tails are equipped with a membrane of skin extending from their elbows to their knees, allowing the animal to glide
As their name suggests, they have a feather-like tail fringed with long stiff hairs which acts as a rudder in ‘flight’. Their toe pads are serrated which help them cling to smooth and slippery bark surfaces.
Recently, the Feathertailed Glider has been ‘split’ into two recognisable species – the Broad-toed and the Narrow-toed, both of which
occur in Victoria and most likely overlap in range in the north-east region.
Like other nocturnal arboreal mammals, Feathertailed Gliders are dependent on large old hollow bearing trees.
Hollows are used as daytime den sites – Feathertailed Gliders preferring cavi-
ties with tiny entrances that they squeeze into.
Colonies of between two and six gliders build spherical nests of overlapping green eucalypt leaves within these tree hollows.
Though they are strictly arboreal, feeding on insects among foliage, eucalypt nectar and sap, and manna,
If
At times they have been observed spiraling to ground, like a falling leaf, presumably in order to traverse their home range and perhaps where trees are too far apart for them to glide between.
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honeydew and acacia gum, Feather-tailed Gliders are sometimes found on the ground.
HOW CUTE AM I? A Feather-tailed Glider prepares to launch itself into the nighttime sky. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros
Family, friends help David Evans mark 90th birthday
By SIMONE KERWIN
FORMER Victorian politician, Oxley Shire and Wangaratta councillor, cattle farmer and passionate local community member David Evans recently celebrated his 90th birthday with friends and family.
In a message sent to the gathering, Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) said Mr Evans was “widely respected around the region due to his passion for community service”.
He served as president of the Ovens and King Football League from 1975 to ‘82, well into his time as a Victorian MP, nine years as secretary and treasurer of Moyhu Football Club (1954’62), then a further two years as president; he was recognised with life memberships of Moyhu in 1976 and the O&K in 2014.
Mr Evans served for nine years on Oxley Shire council and 20 years in Victorian Parliament as Member for
North Eastern Province, was commissioner for the Shire of Campaspe based in Echuca in 1996-’97, and spent a further two years as a Wangaratta councillor.
“A celebration of David’s 90th birthday would not be complete without mentioning his many, many years of service to the National Party of Victoria,” Mr McCurdy said.
“There has surely never been a man more dedicated to the party than David.
“He spent more than 60 years as the Moyhu branch president and secretary, attended every state conference for the last 60 years, bar this year, and has also served tirelessly in other various roles, from party councillor to a short stint as president and party treasurer.
“I have never known anyone to work as tirelessly as David, from pre-poll to polling day, when come rain, hail or shine, he was there handing out and mak-
ing sure the booths were manned, particularly Moyhu where he knows every voter by name.
“Even still David will call up and make sure the ship is sailing smoothly, make sure we are aware of the latest rising political issue, or provide an update on what is happening in Moyhu or out on his beloved farm.
“David is always making sure we are having meetings, following the procedure, and first and foremost,
serving the community.” Mr McCurdy’s message finished with a quote from Mr Evans’ first speech to Parliament, which reflects his grounding in local government and understanding of the need for a flourishing local community: “Local government should not be allowed to starve…(it) needs a little extra nourishment (which) would allow it to grow and prosper and… take a fuller and better part in the way Victoria develops”.
• David Evans with Marion Evans and Brian Sheppard, and other attendees at his 90th birthday celebrations.
• David Evans with his grandchildren.
• David Evans with children Elinor, Julie and Evan.
• David Evans with his Cemetery Trust certificate of appreciation, recognising his 54 years of voluntary service with Whitefield Cemetery Trust.
• David Evans and John Brown in conversation.
PHOTOS: Glen Miller
Quiet achiever who did it his way
AS they mark the first anniversary of his passing, Ian Walsh’s family has taken time to reflect on the life of the late Wangaratta resident.
At home in the outdoors, active and agile, Ian loved animals and motorbikes, and created magical Christmas light displays which lit the hearts of local residents.
He was born in Swan Hill in 1950 to parents James and Mary Walsh, who resided at Tooleybuc, NSW.
Soon after his arrival, the family relocated to Merrijig near Mansfield, then to nearby Tolmie.
In 1955, Mary Walsh was appointed post mistress at Peechelba, which brought the family to the Wangaratta district.
Ian was the second youngest of six children: James, Mary, Jean, Frank, Ian and Lillian.
Sadly, his mother lost a battle with cancer in 1957, when Ian was only six years old.
His father continued to manage the post office, and the older children helped out with the care of their younger siblings until his father remarried.
Upon leaving school, Ian went to work alongside his brother Frank, and the two had an enduring connection; both were good athletes, and Ian tried his hand at football, cricket and tennis.
On the family property ‘Fairhaven’ at Glenrowan West, working alongside his father, Ian took pride in contributing to the family farm, and reaped the many benefits of country life.
He showed ability and versatility
Ian
James
Walsh
4/12/1950 - 13/07/2023
in various work settings including the timber, hop and tobacco industries, pool and shed construction, and at the Wangaratta Woollen Mills and Bruck Textiles.
Ian took on various workplace roles, obtained certificates and licences demonstrating skills in the operation of industrial equipment and machinery, and became wellversed in facets of textile manufacture.
He completed courses in textile chemistry, textile technology and dyehouse practices, workplace leadership, management skills, assessment and workplace training.
He also held supervisory positions and was respected in the workplace for his experience, industry knowledge and personal qualities.
Initiated by Victoria Police, Ian received a letter of commendation in 2001 for actions taken in first aid duties when attending a serious workplace accident, referencing sensitive and caring assistance, excellent teamwork and appropriate procedures under difficult circumstances.
He went on to become the OH&S workplace representative and completed a Certificate in Public Safety (Fire Fighting & Emergency Procedures).
Ian believed in union principles, supported co-workers and would
speak up for others if he felt this was needed.
A valued member of the organisation at all levels, he was in his 40th year with the firm when he finished work at Bruck Textiles.
He dabbled in property investment, and become adept at building and renovation as well as property management.
First married to Helene Hochfeld, the couple lived at Glenrowan for a time, then settled in Wangaratta.
They had five children together, Elisa, Kristy, Kylie and twins Shelley and Lincoln.
Ian later married May Matthews and became stepfather to Robert, Wendy, Gary, Cathy and Russell.
As time went by, he took on carer responsibilities.
A devoted family man with grandchildren and great grandchildren, Ian was young at heart, in actions and outlook.
A considerate, giving person, humble and unassuming, he also knew his worth, and could turn his hand to anything.
He is remembered as gentle, loving, sincere, genuine and treasured.
Ian’s eldest sister Mary said: “I watched you grow to a schoolboy, to a handsome man, become a father, pop and poppy.
“You were a wonderful person, always willing to help people. You were my everything.”
A struggle with cancer highlighted Ian’s courage, spirit and determination, and he has been sadly missed since his passing.
LOVED AND REMEMBERED: Ian Walsh is remembered as gentle, loving, sincere, genuine and treasured.
Cancer centre trust thanks Lions for $12,000 donation
By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE
THE Whorouly Football Netball Club’s generosity has not gone unnoticed, after local senior player Will Allen last month shaved off his decade-old dreadlocks to raise $10,000 for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.
Will was joined by a number of his teammates who also shaved their hair in support, with all funds totalling $12,000 donated to the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund (AWRCCTF).
Last Thursday Will presented the cheque to Brad Robertson, director of AWRCCTF, who thanked the club for its thoughtfulness during a speech on the night.
“Your donation has reinforced for me the wonderful regional community we live in,” he said.
“My family has moved 14 times around this country; this community is our home and I could not be happier.
“The trust fund is focused on four key areas we call ‘Pillars’; The wellbeing centre, hospital equipment, staff training and cancer research.
“The wellbeing centre is focused on individualised support to patients and their families and provides services at the centre to lessen the impacts of isolation and disengagement caused by an individual’s cancer journey.
“The trust works with cancer specialists to identify equipment needed to improve or enhance the services provided at the centre.
“The trust works with the centre to identify training required to enhance cancer services and improve outcomes for patients and their families.
“We also focus on researching regional specific impacts to improve services by informing foundation advocacy.
“That is what we do as the trust, so hopefully that reassures you that your very generous donation will support those pillars.
“These services would not be possible without donations like yours.
“I wish to thank all of the organisers, coordinators and participants in Pink Day, raffles and other fundraising activities organised by your club.
“I loved seeing the videos and
pictures especially the story of the gentlemen who sacrificed his dreadlocks for our cause.
“The amount of money you raised in such a short period of time is commendable.
“This is especially significant given the hardships faced within the community due to the increases in cost of living.
“We promise to use this money in accordance with our constitution for the four pillars of the trust.”
Council
spot
checks for unregistered cats, dogs
ALPINE Shire local laws team members are about to commence spot checks for unregistered cats and dogs across the Alpine Shire.
Pet owners are being reminded that under the Domestic Animals Act, all dogs and cats over three months of age living in the shire must be legally registered with council, or pet owners risk an on-the-spot fine of $395.
A council spokesperson said the local laws team receive two to three phone calls a week about missing cats and dogs, and pet registration makes it easier for lost pets to be reunited with their owners.
“Trying to locate owners of unregistered pets takes considerable time and impacts resources, detracting the local laws team from other issues,” the spokesperson said.
“When these pets are registered, it is a quick and easy process to ensure they get home safely.”
It costs a maximum of $55 to register a desexed cat or dog and a maximum of $110 to register a non-desexed cat or dog.
Pet owners with non-desexed cats and dogs are encouraged to take advantage of National Desex Your Pet month in July and get a discount on desexing.
For more information visit alpineshire.vic.gov.au/community/news/ residents-eligible-discount-duringnational-desex-your-pet-month.
Residents can register their pets online through council’s website or in person at the council office in Bright or the libraries in Mount Beauty and Myrtleford.
For more information about pet registration, visit alpineshire.vic.gov.au/ residents/pets-and-animals/registermy-pet.
New-look Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club officially reopened
ALPINE Shire Council and Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club proudly celebrated the official reopening of their newly refurbished facility last week.
The completion of the modernised clubrooms mark a significant milestone for the club and the local community.
Around 40 people braved the cold to witness the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and enjoy a tour of the upgraded facilities.
The refurbishment project, valued at $1.9M, was made possible through the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.
The extensive upgrades were carried out between September 2023
and May 2024, during the off-season, to ensure minimal disruption to the club’s activities.
Council, acting on behalf of the Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club, provided project management and grant administration services.
The renovations included remodeling the change rooms, expanding the kitchen, establishing a first aid room, relocating the umpires’ room, and upgrading the public toilets, building access, and car parking to ensure accessibility for all.
The new facilities are now more energy-efficient, featuring LED sensor lights, reverse cycle air conditioning, and energy-efficient appliances.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr John For-
syth, said the Savoy Soccer Club has always been a cornerstone of not only Myrtleford, but Alpine Shire communities.
“The upgrades were necessary to meet the growing needs of our community, especially with the increasing number of junior and female soccer players,” he said.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the soccer club committee volunteers who made themselves available for design reviews, countless site meetings, and working bees to fix site drainage issues, install turf, and clear the site for construction.
“Your dedication and hard work have been instrumental in bringing this project to life.”
MCGREGOR MACHINERY
GENEROUS DONATION: Brad Robertson (left) from Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund gladly accepted a cheque for $12,000 from Whorouly Football Netball Club senior player Will Allen last week.
PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
WELCOME: Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club president Anthony Zanghellini, with Alpine Shire mayor Cr John Forsyth and Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club’s Peter Sacco, opening the new club facilities.
Social enterprise
Cathedral College Wangaratta
YEAR one students Holly Shenfield and Isla McPhail were excited to show everyone their purchases at last term’s year nine social enterprise markets. The markets are a chance for the year nine students to create, promote and sell items to raise money for their chosen charity or cause.
HAPPY SHOPPERS: Year one students Holly Shenfield and Isla McPhail were among those shopping at the year nine social enterprise markets.
Council visit
Wangaratta Primary School
YEAR 5/6 students had the opportunity to visit Wangaratta Council Chambers as part of their unit learning about government and democracy.
Students had the opportunity to speak to Mayor Dean Rees and ask questions about his role and responsibilities.
ROUND TABLE: Year 5/6 students from Wangaratta Primary School were pleased to meet and talk with Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees during their visit.
School holiday fun
Wangaratta Art Gallery
KIDS enjoyed the opportunity to take part in pet accessory making workshops held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery during the school holidays.
Guided by educator Inga Hanover, they used a variety of materials to make colourful bandanas, headbands and rope toys for their furry friends, achieving some amazing results. It was great to see the enthusiasm and creativity shown by all those who took part.
SHOW AND TELL: Addison Tilley was among the participants in the pet accessory workshops held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery during the holidays.
enjoyed playing in the sandpit with puppy, Fen.
Making friends
Carraragarmungee Primary School
STUDENTS have given their new therapy-dog-in-training, Fenella, a warm welcome.
Archy Nottingham and Oscar Newman enjoyed some sandpit exploration time with Fen.
A border collie puppy, Fen is progressing well and the kids are absolutely smitten with her.
QUALITY TIME: Karl Christie (prep) and his buddy Brax Mawson (grade five) enjoy spending time together reading.
Good buddies
Wangaratta West Primary School
PREP student Karl Christie and his grade five buddy Brax Mawson enjoyed spending time together during Buddy Time.
Once a week buddies get time together to connect, grow and learn from each other. They often spend their time adventuring on the playground, digging in the sandpit and reading to each other.
The preps admire the grade five students’ kindness and patience whilst the grade fives often eagerly wait for their next buddy time.
DIGGING AWAY: Carra students Archy Nottingham and Oscar Newman
Long way round for Santa Fe
■ SPACIOUS & STYLISH: Santa Fe sevenseater with front-wheel drive, which kicks off the pricing at $55,500, plus on-road costs.
By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring
MILLENNIALS and GenXers are not noted for being fans of the great outdoors, or so I thought, but according to research neither is averse to channelling a touch of Tarzan of the Jungle.
With this in mind, Hyundai has come up with the ‘Open to More’ concept of expanding customers’ experiences by connecting inside with the outside.
Enter the fifth-generation Santa Fe, a spacious and wellequipped SUV with fuel-saving hybrid technology.
A triple-trim line-up is out to appeal to the young tech-savvy Tarzan or Jane with curved panoramic instrument display, frontrow relaxation seating, two-way accessible centre console and UV-C sterilisation tray.
The Big Fella can call on Hyundai’s Bluelink Connected Car Services, stay up to date with Over-The-Air software capability or rest easy with SmartSense safety.
The new Santa Fe is powered by a 1.6 litre petrol engine helped out by a 44.2kW electric motor fed by a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and frontor all-wheel drive.
The hybrids will be joined later in the year by a muscular 2.5T-GDi power plant.
On test was the entrylevel Santa Fe seven-seater with front-wheel drive, which kicks off the pricing at
$55,500, plus on-road costs.
All-wheel drive adds $3000 to the price.
Next on the list is the Elite seven-seat all-wheel drive only, at $65,000, with the range topping Calligraphy AWD kicking in at $65,000.
For a further $500 the Calligraphy can be kitted out with a pair of second-row captain’s chairs.
Premium paint options are available for up to $1000 across the board.
The Santa Fe Hybrid is covered by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and eight-year 160,000km high voltage battery.
A lifetime service plan is complemented by a Premium Roadside Support Plan and Sat Nav update Plan while the vehicle is serviced by the maker.
STYLING
At almost five metres long, the new Santa Fe ‘pulls a serious face’ with a high-set level bonnet, H-shaped headlamps and lower front valance that draw cues from the new squashed Hyundai ‘H’ logo.
A chiselled profile features clean sculpting and flat roofline, robust wheel arches’ a short front overhang and arty 2-incjh alloy wheels.
From the rear a wide-opening tailgate speaks to stability, while H-shaped taillamps ape the front of the vehicle.
The Santa Fe is available in 10 exterior colours, including standard Creamy White mica and Terracotta Orange.
mica colours include Magnetic Force (grey) as ‘worn’ by the test vehicle.
INTERIOR
At almost five metres long, close to three metres wheelbase, the new Santa Fe gains are substantial in occupant and cargo space, the latter also winning out with a 145mm wider tailgate opening than its predecessor.
The power tailgate is smart too, opening to different heights at varying speeds remotely by using the key or by simply standing close to the tailgate for a few seconds.
An already generous luggage area (628 litres) with all seatbacks up swells to 1949 litres with the back two rows folded flat.
Once again, an H-shape motif is predominant on the instrument panel and air vents, with a curved panoramic display incorporating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment layout.
Eco-friendly materials are put to good use on many of the cabin’s soft surfaces, such as the head-liner, seat backs, instrument panel, door trim and seat coverings.
And storage deserves a special mention with two-level centre console with twin-hinged lid making a large cubby equally accessible to the first and second row occupants.
Also on hand are intuitive 6.6-inch climate control display and high-speed dual wireless smartphone charging.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The 1.6 litre petrol engine is matched with a 44.2kW electric motor fed by a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
Hooked up to a six-speed automatic transmission, and in the case of the test car, frontwheel drive.
The petrol / electric hybrid powertrain develops a combined 172kW of power and 367Nm of torque.
SAFETY
Hyundai SmartSense is an extensive system of occupant protection via a standard suite of advanced driver assistance, including forward collision avoidance, steering assist, driver attention warning, smart cruise control, blind spot monitor and surround view monitor.
The Santa Fe has been subjected to increased body rigidity measures and the inclusion of ten air-bags – driver and passenger airbags, first and second-row side thorax and pelvis airbags, driver knee airbag, an advanced front centre side airbag and curtain airbags.
DRIVING
Hyundai says the all-new Santa Fe Hybrid is designed with the idea of engaging the driver more, while at the same time maximising the fuel efficiency of the petrol / electric powertrain.
A dedicated hybrid information display features a charge / power gauge, battery charge level indicator and regenera-
NOTE: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Hyundai local dealer for drive-away prices.
tive braking information, while the multimedia unit chips in with fuel economy and electric motor graphs.
Regen braking can be adjusted in three steps via steering column-mounted paddles.
The driver is given greater braking control and the opportunity to improve fuel efficiency in varied driving conditions.
After a week’s work the test vehicle recorded average petrol consumption of 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres.
Handling, stability and general driving control are optimised by e-Motion Drive, a new electric dynamic torque vectoring control system, by easing instability that can be caused by loss of traction of an inner wheel during cornering.
This was particularly efficient in keeping the long (close to 5m) Santa Fe Hybrid on an even keel on fast bends and tight corners.
The long wheelbase and local suspension tuning turned rough road into its level best. Only tyre noise got through to the cabin.
Occupants had little to complain about with head, leg and shoulder room to spare, even with a full load.
Parking provided some angst among drivers, especially in crowded shopping centres.
SUMMARY
Social studies and hybrid technology have resulted in Hyundai approaching Santa Fe from a new direction.
Premium
Unique development sites. Prime Ryley Street position
LOCATED in the heart of Wangaratta, these prime pieces of land offer endless possibilities for development.
The high exposure blocks are conveniently located on Wangaratta’s main arterial within 400m to the Wangaratta CBD, offering an opportunity not to be missed in a Commercial 1 Zone with all services available
Wangaratta branch
76 Reid Street
Open weekdays
The three sites are:
• 46 Ryley Street: Lot 1 PS840424H, a three bedroom red brick home and commercial land at the corner of Ryley and Warby street, 1263 m2;
• 40-42 Ryley Street: Lot 1 with old shedding/office 1138 m2 fronting Ryley Street; and
• 22 Moore Street: Lot 2. Vacant Commercial Land 1245 m2..
9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)
1300 004 863 humebank.com.au
The Rural City of Wangaratta - with a population of over 30,000 people and the gateway to the Victorian High Country - makes the commercial sites a unique opportunity for development.
Expressions of Interest are now being accepted for these properties.
Contact Joe McKenzie on 0423 655 179 to learn more. JULY 19 - 25 | 2024
Rural City Connection
Customer Service Hours to Change
Councils Customer Service opening hours are changing to
better meet the needs of our community. From 1 August 2024, office hours will change to 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday to Friday.
Wangaratta Art Gallery
Upcoming Workshop
Stone soup with Amandhi da Silva
Join this special workshop and help create a communal soup with chef Amandhi da Silva, share stories and partake in its delicious offerings. Saturday 27 July 11am - 2pm, tickets $30$35. Soup, bread, and complimentary glass of bubbles included. For more information and to book, visit the Gallery website.
Notice of Public Consultation
Location 84 Parfitt Road Wangaratta
Proposal A land exchange is proposed to provide access to a Lot created by a subdivision at 84 Parfitt Road Wangaratta. The proposal arises out of a subdivision granted under planning permit - PlnApp22/243. The proposal can be viewed on our website www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Your-Council/Public-Notices. Any person who may be affected by the proposal may object or a make a submission (in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Submissions close 16 August 2024
Tenders
South Road Reconstruction Tenders close at 2pm on Wednesday 24 July 2024. Further details may be obtained by visiting Council’s website.
Have your say on the following policies via the Connect Wangaratta portal:
Draft Economic Development & Tourism Strategy
Community members are encouraged to participate in shaping the future of our local economy and provide feedback which will be incorporated into the final Economic Development & Tourism Strategy. Comments and suggestions can be submitted until Submissions close Friday 2 August.
Draft Inclusive Wangaratta Plan
Feedback is welcome on the Draft Inclusive Wangaratta Plan which will ensure everyone in our municipality has the opportunity to engage, to prosper, to be supported, and to grow. Comments and suggestions can be submitted until Submissions close Friday 26 July.
Wangaratta Library Upcoming Author Events
Wednesday 24 July 2.30pm ..................Stephen Whiteside
Thursday 1 August 6.30pm ......................................Joe Matera
Tuesday 13 August 6.30pm .........................Margaret Hickey Wednesday 21 August 2.30pm ...............................Ryan Butta Bookings are essential https://shorturl.at/Lx6zq
Local Shop Hop
Each month we are showcasing the cool, quirky, and unique shopping spots across our region. Until November 2024, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore our charming townships for a chance to win some awesome prizes. Make a purchase at participating businesses, scan the QR code at point of purchase, and you’re in! This month we are highlighting Mohyu. More info here: https://bit.ly/3IZq8Xy
Planning Applications
Application No PlnApp24/100
Location 113 Cruse Street Wangaratta
Proposal Use and development of the land for eight display homes, reduction in car parking requirements and display of signage.
These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Submissions close 30 July 2024.
Application No PlnApp24/079
Location 180-184 Tone Road Wangaratta VIC 3677 and 2-8 Browning Street Wangaratta VIC 3677
Proposal Use and development of the land for restricted retail premises and warehouses and alteration of access to a Transport Zone 2
These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Submissions close Friday 2 August 2024.
Positions Vacant
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta
North East Support and Action for Youth Inc. is a not for profit association, which is incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Vic), Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulation 2013.
The Board of Governance is seeking expressions of interest from qualified person/ firms to carry out the following services: - Audit of the Chart of Accounts, Financial transactions, and related policy/procedures - Program specific acquittals
An information package is available by contacting NESAY 0357 202201 or email info@nesay.com.au
Closing date for tenders is 16 August 2024.
GARAGE SALE
ANTIQUES and collectables. Sunday, July 21, 9am-3pm, 31 Roy Street, East Wangaratta.
CLOTHING, kitchen utensils, appliances, furniture, roller skates and protective gear and toys, something for everyone, 44 Hardisty Street, Wangaratta, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21, 8am-4pm, no early callers.
PROPERTY sold all sundries must go, vintage dressing table and wardrobe, TV unit, bedheads, old tools, camping equipment, assorted tiles, books, household items. 24 Irwin Avenue, Wangaratta, Saturday, July 20, 8.30am-1pm.
Have your tax return professionally prepared After hours and weekend appointments available Convenient location in Wangaratta Competitive rates
CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
FRANKS Dog Training, behavioural solutions. Ph 0418 314 610.
MARK’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
Tax Agent 71175008 or email deirdre.hart@bigpond.com for an appointment
Ring Deirdre Hart 0407 542 820
Req. in Exmouth WA from 29th July to 30th August 2024. Return flights, accommodation and car provided. Contact Tony on 0417 034421 or email resume to tonyadamo@bigpond.com
ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANT
Permanent position based in Milawa
About us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking and market leading innovation. We are a proud and passionate business who are strong on values and culture.
Role Snapshot: Reporting to the Cost Accountant, this role involves the day-to-day preparation and control of the company’s accounts with focus on cash, product costing, inventory controls and reviewing work orders.
Key Accountabilities:
• Reconcile inventory control accounts
• Prepare product costs and review cost variances
• Maintain the Group’s fixed asset register
• Maintain capital lease records and reconciliations
• Complete bank and other reconciliations
About you: Ideally you will have the following skills, experience and qualities:
• Qualifications in Accounting or substantial relevant experience
• Already studying towards being a Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practising Accountant (CPA)
• Power BI experience (preferred but not essential)
• Appetite to grow the role over time and develop your skills within the organisation
• Very high attention to detail
• Strong Excel skills
What’s on offer: For the successful candidate we offer a great work culture, career development and a competitive salary plus generous employee benefits including discounts on all products.
More Information: Further information and a position description can be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or call Allyce on (03) 5720 5500.
Apply Now by scanning the QR code
We are seeking a passionate individual to join our Wangaratta Beds R Us Sales Team • Full Time – Above Award Wages • Exceptional customer service skills are highly regarded • Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings
To apply for this role send your current CV to wangaratta@bedsrus.com.au Applications close Wednesday 24th July 2024
GRAPE SUPPLY & SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER Full-Time
About us: Brown Family Wine Group, an innovative familyowned multi brand wine business, is one of Australia’s most loved and trusted wine companies. We have evolved from a single brand to a family of brands that now includes Brown Brothers, Devil’s Corner, Pirie, Tamar Ridge and Innocent Bystander. We are a proud and passionate business who are strong on values and culture. Most recently we have been certified as “A Great Place to Work” and are committed to honouring this recognition throughout all aspects of the business.
About the Role: This full-time role provides a diverse range of administrative support for the Viticulture, Winery and Sustainability teams. In addition to general admin duties key tasks for the role include:
• Coordinate, schedule and manage the grape and juice intake from internal and external growers during vintage
• Responsible for maintaining grower records, completion of industry surveys, supplier contracts and payment through various software applications
• Assist the business in achieving its sustainability goals through accurate and regular recording of both sustainability and emissions-related data
• Provide a range of administrative support and co-ordination for the Viticulture, Winery and Sustainability teams as requested
What’s Required: This role is suited to someone who can work unsupervised with a high attention to detail, excellent communication skills and strong computer literacy across all platforms.
What’s on Offer:
• An opportunity to develop personally and professionally
• Work with one of Australia’s leading wine companies
• Be part of a fun, passionate and dedicated team
• Generous employee benefits including amazing discounts on products
Your pro-active and flexible approach to your work and the capacity to work in a busy team environment will be rewarded.
More Information: Further information and a position description can be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or by calling Allyce on (03) 5720 5500.
EMPLOYMENT
TAXI DRIVER
Taxi driver wanted for Saturday night shifts in Albury. Training and uniform provided. Incentive scheme for the successful applicant. Ph 0409 937 419.
SUBARU Impreza sedan 2006 model, 70,000km, 1 owner, runs well, good condition, RWC, registered till January 2025 (TZA175), $8500. Ph 0400 927 274.
HOLDEN Commodore sedan 2000, Olympic model, reliable, body needs work, (QAO524), $1000, located in Wangaratta. Ph 0402 184 262.
LANDCRUISER 2014, Dual Cab V8, Diesel, 100ltr extra fuel tank supported b y new springs, raised centre console, electric winch, cruise control, camper annex attached, low km’s 116,500km, immaculate condition, rego to February 2025 (1CF 1XR), $100,000 ono. Ph 0428 367 743 or 0428 212 051.
SADLY I must part w ith my 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee (too many cars), only one previous owner, and in immaculate condition, all up to date service books, always garaged, only been off-road twice, all hwy kms, 3 litre diesel motor, 3.5 tonne towing capacity, Redarc electric brakes, RWC provided, 166,400km, reg (WAG541), $10,950 ono, IMMACULATE. Ph 0407 050 979.
2020 Toyota Hilux SR5 Auto 4x4 Double Cab, SR5+ premium interior, with Nebula Blue op tional paint, black leather accented interior trim and standard Apple/Android car play, features include: side steps, 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked towing capacity, heavy duty suspension, trailer sway control, satellite navigation (GPS), bought new from dealer, comes with full dealer service history, only one owner, currently registered and will come with roadworthy certificate (BKS063), 94,400km, $49,990 excluding govt charges. Ph 0418 361 935.
SPRINTER Van, diesel, reg till April 2025, roadworthy April 2024, 160,000km, camper/work van / weekend relax plus 12volt system, excellent condition, no rust, $18,000, VIN: WDF90366228908307. Ph 0459 899 884.
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer ES CJ, Auto Odo 182,013km, 4cyl 2.0L petrol, 6 speed constantly variable transmission, Reg (YTT860), expir y December, 2024, $7,500. Ph 0490 388 939.
TIPPER FARM UTE, 1998 Ford Courier (unreg) petrol / gas, 4WD, manual, straight single cab, steel tray, drop side tray, tow bar, could be re-reg, runs well, VIN: JCOAAASGHCVB78825, $4,500 firm. Ph 5729 3669.
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $30 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
GARDEN SLEEPERS post and rail fencing, decking, pallet timber and onsite milling. Ph 0448 933 999.
Merl Hoysted July 18, 1924. Happy 100th Birthday! Thanks for being our Mum. ~ Love from Deane, Robyn and Pam, and families.
BRIGGS, Suzanne Patricia “Sue”.
The family of Sue Briggs is saddened to announce her passing on July 15, 2024. Aged 70 years.
Dearly loved wife of Graeme (dec) and devoted mother to Tim, Erin and Hannah; mother-in-law to Aysha and Steve. Cherished sister to John, Janne (dec), Mandy, Brendan, Robyn, Andrea and Paul.
Beloved Grandma to Hugo, Archie, Maggie, Penelope and Annie.
“To the world you were but one, to us you were the world”
Mum, Strong, brave, generous, funny and loving. You will always be loved, remembered and deeply missed. ~ Love Tim, Aysha, Hugo and Penelope.
Mum, Grandma,
As we look up into the night sky, we will be searching for another big, beautiful bright star that will be forever looking over us and will be forever in our hearts. We love you and miss you immensely, ~ Erin, Steve, Archie, Maggie and Annie
Mum,
You were my best friend, my rock and my strength. You were the most loving, caring, giving person I know.
You will always be in my heart and now reunited with Dad. I love you and miss you so much, ~ Hannah.
BRIGGS, Sue. The Tarrawingee Football and Netball Club extends sympathy to Hannah and the Briggs family on the recent passing of their mother Sue. Rest in peace Sue.
BRIGGS, Sue.
Lovely Sue had a golden heart and everyone who had the privilege to know her are blessed indeed. Our love to all the family, what a wonderful legacy she has left behind.
~ With heartfelt sympathy, Pam, Bryan and family.
TOYOTA Corolla 2009, excellent condition, well looked after, metallic black, 150,000km, (XHG700), $8500. Ph 0412 718 068.
TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.
CRAWFORD, Robert Anthony. 20/2/1942 – 13/7/2024
Peace at last after battling illness.
Husband to Penelope Anna (dec).
Father to David, Peter and Robert. ‘Pa’ to his beloved 7 grandchildren. Now together on a golf course somewhere.
DILLON, John “Jack”. 8/1/1931 – 14/7/2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of John “Jack” Dillon who passed away at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Much loved and loving husband of Jessie “Peta” Dillon for 67 years. Cherished father and father-in-law of Jackie and Trevor, Peta-Lynne, Bernadette and John, Susan and Greg, Gay and Rob, Clare and Mark, Monica and Shane, Carmel and Garry, Sally and Cameron and Matthew and Shoko.
Adored grandfather of 30 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
DILLON, John “Jack”. 8/1/1931- 14/7/2024
Our beloved Dad and Poppy Jack. Loved father of Jackie and father in-law of Trevor, grandfather of Adam and Brooke, Rebekka and Scott, Hannah and Patrick, Madelaine and Tom, and Jacob, and great-grandfather of Kaylee, Nora, Lucy, Parker, Robbie, Beau, Jack and Pippa.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.”
DILLON, John “Jack”.
Dearly loved father of Bernadette and John Sirianni. Loved grandfather to Laura, Isobelle and Trent, Eleanor and Fraser, Millicent and Edward, Jonathon and Taryn. Great-Grandfather to Lewis, Sebastian, Charlotte, Marcus, Franky, Elsie and Felix.
Dear Dad, Pop and Poppy Jack. Your legacy remains a blessing and will always be treasured. We will never forget your warm hugs, words of wisdom, special handshakes, songs and jokes.
You will always be loved. Now in God’s care in the arms of Angels.
DILLON, John Joseph.
Better known as Jack, Dad, Pop and Poppy Jack.
Although our hearts are broken with the loss of our dear Dad, father-in-law and Pop, he will remain forever treasured in our hearts and within our greatest and most precious memories.
We will miss dropping in at any time of the day, knowing there would always be a warm hug, a catchy song to be heard, or a witty joke or two to be told, that would often leave us in fits of laughter.
We will miss those life debates around the kitchen table that were often interesting and at times chaotic, but left us always feeling loved, heard and supported. You were always our biggest champion, our forever larrikin and a true family man in every sense of the word.
Close to our hearts you will always stay. Loved and remembered every day.
~ Sue and Greg.
Georgia, Daniel, Hudson and Ari. Alexandria and Andy. Fraser, Milly and Reuben.
DILLON, John “Jack”.
Dad, your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure, You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure.
~ Gabrielle and Robert, Emma, James, Spencer and Everly McIney, Xavier, Hannah, Oscar and Fergus Waters.
DILLON, John “Jack”. Beloved father, Pop, and friend. Forever in our hearts. Loved and remembered always. Thanks for the laughs, the music, and the good times.
~ Clare, Mark, Darcy, Kate, Eliza, Lewis, Mitch, and Sophie.
DILLON, John “Jack”.
Dad, Pop
We will miss the twinkle in your eyes so full of mischief, The smile always so ready on your lips. Your ability to break into song when prompted or inspired.
The lilt of laughter that you had, the gift of evoking from many. The pearls of wisdom you always wanted to give.
Rest in peace now Dad, we will listen for you in the music.
~ Mon and Shane.
Jessie and Shane G, great-grandson Locky. Patrick, Ethan and Michelle.
DILLON, John “Jack”.
To our beloved Poppy Jack, we will miss your cheekiness and your witty humor.
We will miss you always being the biggest entertainment within any room you entered. We are so grateful for the beautiful memories you have given us.
Enjoy a joke up there with your mates who have been waiting for you.
~ Love always Amy, Bethany and Liam.
DILLON, Jack. Deepest sympathy from all at the Rovers on the passing of Jack, a much loved member of the Club.
Listed No.8 amongst the 805 Hawks who have played senior O&M football. Jack will be sadly missed.
GARVEY (Grant), Jodie Maree.
Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family.
Loved partner of Brett. Loved daughter of Joe and Glenda (both dec). Loving mother of Teghan and BJ. Adored sister of Darryn and Helen. Much loved niece and cousin of the Grant family. Forever in our hearts.
McANANLY, James Francis “Jim”. Late of Beechworth. Passed away peacefully at Beechworth Health Service on Friday, July 12, 2024. Private burial.
EVANS (nee Skinner), Lorna Isobel.
Passed away peacefully at Estia Health Benalla on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Aged 93 years.
Daughter of Albert and Florence Skinner (both dec).
Sister to Dorothy (dec), Alma (dec), Albert (dec), Roma (dec), Gwen (dec), Leila and Nettie.
Loved wife of Peter (dec).
Loving Mum of Doug and Maureen (both dec), Judy and Dale (dec).
Cherished Nan of Melanie, Sheena, Mark, Morgan and Ainslee.
Double Nan of Darren, Riley, Matilda, Diesel, Edie, Dalaigh and Hadley. Loved and remembered always.
FLETCHER,
Arthur John. 12/2/1935 – 16/7/2024
The family of Arthur Fletcher is saddened to announce his passing on July 16, 2024. Aged 89 years.
Passed away peacefully.
Much loved husband of Dot. Husband of Dorothy (dec). Father and father-in-law of Sonya, Mavis (Mab) and Mal.
Loved Poppa of James, Laura, and Adam. Great-Poppa of Flynn.
Stepdad to Christopher and Christina, Rodney, Phillip and Kellie and their children Rebekah and Jayden.
POVSE, Milan.
Passed away at Violet Town Bush Nursing Home on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Aged 96 years.
Loved husband of Rose (dec). Stepfather of Fiona and Grahame. Gone but not forgotten.
POVSE, Emil Milan. 17/8/1927–14/7/2024. Gone but not forgotten. Remembered in our hearts forever.
BRIGGS
POVES, Milan. Brother-in-law to Heather, Jim, Margaret and Doug. May you rest in peace, reunited with your wife Rose.
Funeral Prayers will be offered for Mrs Sue Briggs at St Patricks Catholic Church, 1 Ford Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, July 25, 2024 commencing at 1.30pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. Sue’s service will be available to watch via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/ Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FUNERAL NOTICES
CRAWFORD,
Robert Anthony. 20/2/1942 – 13/7/2024
Peace at last after battling illness.
Husband to Penelope Anna (dec). Father to David, Peter and Robert. ‘Pa’ to his beloved 7 grandchildren. Now together on a golf course somewhere.
DILLON
Funeral prayers to honour the life of John “Jack” Dillon will be held at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1 Ford Street, Wangaratta commencing at 10am on Friday, July 26, 2024 followed by interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
EVANS
The funeral service for Mrs Lorna Isobel Evans will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at 10.30am.
A private cremation will follow.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FLETCHER
The funeral service for Mr Arthur Fletcher will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 commencing at 2pm.
A private cremation will follow this service.
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
POVSE
The funeral service for Mr Milan Povse will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 10am. Burial will follow at the Eldorado General Cemetery.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
BIANCO, John T.
I thought of you today, but that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too.
I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.
All I have are memories, and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is a keepsake, from which I’ll never part.
God has you in His arms, I have you in my heart.
3 years.
- Love always, Vicki.
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB
Saturday, July 13
Men’s 18 Hole Par
A Grade: Ken Beitzel -1.
B Grade: Michael Baillie -1.
C Grade: Mark Flack-2.
Ball Winners: Stephen McNaughton -1, Andrew Walker -2, Martin VanRhee -3, Gordon Paterson -3, Alan Sands -3, Bernie Grealy -3, Ian Harbourd -3, Allen Bastin -4, Mike Fitzsimons -4, Gary Dinsdale -4.
NTP: 4th Chris Palmer, 8th Alan White, 13th Mike Fitzsimons, 17th Maurie Braden.
Ball Winners: Rog Henderson 2 Balls 34, Andrew Skewes 32, Glen O’Connell 32, Laurie Miller 31, David Woodstock 31, Peter Ford 31, Doug Richens 31.
NTP: 4th Trevor Nippress, 8th Steve Fisher, 13th Andrew Skewes, 17th Angus Williams.
Wednesday, July 17
Men’s 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Mark Dean 17.
Ball Winners: Alan Sands 16. NTP: 4th Matt Walker, 8th Joe Marjanovic.
WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending July 14
Wednesday, July 10
Men’s Competition
18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Michael Webster 35 points.
Runner Up: Ashley Clayton 33 points.
NTP: 4th Michael Webster, 7th
Michael Webster, 9th Michael Webster,13th Geoff Webster, 16th
Ashley Clayton.
Winner: Rodney Godde 15 points C/B.
Runner Up: Bob Haynes. Thursday, July 11
Women’s
18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Barbara Thomas 30 points.
Runner Up: Karen Smith 25 points.
NTP: 9th Barbara Thomas.
Saturday, July 13
Men’s Competition
18 Hole Stableford Event
A Grade Winner: Trevor Clark 34 points.
Runner Up: Robert Holloway 31 points.
B Grade Winner: Daymn Hoffard 37 points.
Runner Up: Somasundrin Naidoo 35 points.
Ball Winners: Russell Wallace, Robert Murray, Brenton O’Brien, Julian Bau, Marcus Angehrn, Dan Madden, Steve Bismire.
NTP: 4th Trevor Clark, 7th Michael Webster, 9th David Woodstock, 13th Robert Holloway, 16th Jake Burns.
Birdies: McDonalds birdie - Steve Bismire.
Secret 6: Julian Bau.
Raffle Winner: Ash Clayton. Sunday, July 14
18 Hole Medley Stableford
Winner: Ray Diramacca 38 points.
Runner Up: David O’Brien 34 points.
TARRA GOLF CLUB
Tarrawingee Golf Club results Saturday, July 13, The members played the Foursomes Championships with the Scratch division being decided after a play off which was won by Manny Tanirau and Ken Miller, the handicap section was won by Mark Nolan and Angelo Garraffo.
There were no nearest the pins on the day.
The final of the doubles KO will be played on Saturday, July 20 with golf to be organised for the players not involved in the KO on the day.
There will also be an event for the Ladies on the day.
Starting times are 11:30am registration for a 12:00 noon start, ladies welcome.
New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.
Tarra Ladies
A small group braved the bitter wintry conditions to compete in a stableford event last Tuesday.
The winner was Di Mclaughlin and the runner-up was Carole O’Sullivan.
With better conditions we are hoping for a better roll up next week.
WANG CROQUET CLUB
Results for Monday, July 15 are as follows:
Christine Ireland and Elise Downes d Joan Dyson and Robyn Muller 7/5, Nathan Reynolds and Terry Wilson d Dawn Wind and Margaret Bennet 7/2.
Last Saturday, Maureen O’Keefe was “on fire”, running hoops from some very difficult angles, while on Monday, Margaret Bennett was placing her ball in the hoop from a considerable distance.
On Wednesday, Wendy Waddington played very well, even running hoops from the boundary.
Play is on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1.00pm.
Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.
Late arrivals will be included in the next game.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.
WANGARATTA CLAY TARGET CLUB
IT was a pretty good turn up for this time of year at the Wangaratta Clay Target Club as 27 shooters came to see what Ian Auranaune, John Gibb, Brett and Emma Jory had set up for them to have a shot at.
There were no 25s this month but at least one 24 was shot.
Bruce Henshall did a great job in the kitchen as usual.
Alison Harwood tended the office, which had a bit of an internet hiccup to start with, but with that fixed all was ready.
The following took home meat trays from Londrigan Finer Foods and the butcher on Vincent, with the exception of John Gibb, who won himself a voucher to the Eldorado Pub.
AA grade: Marty Seymour 94/100, 2nd: Adam Shale 91/100.
A grade: Charlie Bonnitcha, 2nd: Andrew Harrington 81/100.
B grade: John Gibb 71/100, 2nd: Barry Ellis 59/100.
C grade: Ben Lardner. Juniors: George Papachristoforos 73/100. Ladies: Demi Shale 70/100. Veterans: Mark Reynolds 86/100.
Next shoot is set for August 11, 10am start with nominations from 9.30am.
Business as normal for North East Baseball after rep’ weekend
NORTH East Baseball returned to normal home and away games at the weekend with all games (except the Rangers U15s having to forfeit their game due to seven of their players and their coach away with the U16s representative team in Morwell) being played at Targoora Park, Wangaratta Wangaratta Benalla United played Panthers in the U15s game.
With the seven-batter rule in juniors, Panthers scored five runs in their first dig, then United went one better losing one out to score six runs. Panthers added another five in their second and seven in the last while United’s batting fell off scoring two then one in their last two digs.
Panthers won 17 to United nine.
In the U12s game, Panthers played United in a very close game with United scoring six runs in each of their four digs and Panthers doing likewise in all but the last turn at bat when they lost two out and scored five runs to go down 23 runs to United 24.
In the C Grade, Panthers left bases loaded when they lost their third out in their first turn at bat to score only two runs.
Rangers batted through 11 players to score six runs in their first dig.
Neither side scored in the second innings, Panthers added two runs in the third innings while Rangers brought in one.
With limited time to play, the fourth dig was not com-
pleted, and scores reverted back to even digs.
Rangers won seven runs to Panthers four.
In the Rangers Grey versus Panthers A Grade game, Rangers Grey batted first and brought in four runs, one of them a home run by Bryan Wilson.
Then with Jason Jonker on the mound for Rangers, they completely shut down Panthers with their first three batters being all struck-out. Their next three, one caught out on a fly ball and two struck-out.
Then in their third innings they got their first runner on base, but he was left there when they lost their third out. In the second and third innings, Rangers Grey had their own problems when they did not get a runner on base in either dig to
lead five runs to nil at the top of the fourth innings.
Panthers first two batters got on base but only one could be brought in before they lost their third out.
Grey added five runs in their turn at bat, then Panthers scored four runs in their last dig, three on them from forced fielding errors by Grey. Rangers Grey finished of the game by scoring another five runs to win Rangers 15 to Panthers five.
In their other two games, Rangers Black A Grade and Rangers Orange B Grade both played Bears.
Bears batted first in the B Grade and after losing their first two batters (both struckout) they brought in two runs in the first then stopped Rangers Orange from scoring. The second dig saw
Bears not scoring while Orange started to score, bringing in seven runs for the dig.
Neither team could get a break in the next three turns at bat, Rangers added another five runs, while Bears could only bring in one.
Final score Rangers Orange 15 to Bears five.
Rangers Black started the game bringing in one run in the first innings and stopping Bears from scoring.
That was it for Rangers as far as scoring went although they kept Bears down to a maximum of three runs in any of their turn at bat.
They could not get another run for the rest of the game.
Bears Gold won eight runs to Rangers Black one.
North East Baseball will be sending an U12s representative team to Werribee
this weekend, we wish them all the best.
This weekend round 11 fixture:
A Grade: Rangers Black v Rangers Grey at Targoora Park, Wangaratta. Wodonga Warriors v Porepunkah Panthers at Gayview Park, Wodonga. Bears Green v Bears Gold at Springdale Heights, Lavington.
B Grade: Rangers v Benalla Bandits at Targoora Park. Warriors v Panthers at Gayview Park, Wodonga. Bears have the bye.
C Grade: Bears vs Rangers Orange at Targoora Park. Warriors v Panthers at Gayview Park.
Juniors: Rangers v United at Targoora Park. Warriors v Panthers at Gayview Park. Bears have the bye.
TEXTBOOK: Maurie Braden hits his tee shot at the Wangaratta Golf Club.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Rally stars ready to fire up Moyhu roads
By PETER WHITTEN
SOME of Australia’s best rally drivers will converge on the region this weekend for the Xeno North Eastern Rallysprint.
Based at the Moyhu Recreation Reserve on Saturday, July 20, the event will pit drivers from far and wide against one another on the challenging terrain of the Moyhu Forest.
Teams will use the ‘sprint’ event to test their skill and vehicles before their regular championships resume in August.
Fresh from a fourth outright placing at Rally Queensland, the most recent round of the Australian Rally Championship, Jamie Luff will travel from Yass to campaign his impressive all-black Toyota GR Yaris AP4.
The 2021 Victorian Rally Champion, Adrian Stratford, will campaign a four-wheel drive, turbocharged Ford Fiesta, while Tasmanian speedster Aidan Peterson will make the trip across Bass Strait to drive his Subaru Impreza WRX.
Local drivers from the North Eastern Car Club will also be part of the event.
Father and son duo Jason and Ryder Lennane (14) will compete in a Honda Civic Type R, the latter prepared and ready for his first time in the navigator’s seat.
Matt Whitten will debut his re-
weekend’s North Eastern Rallysprint.
cently finished Ford Fiesta in the event, with experienced Queensland co-driver Holly Kilbride calling the corners.
The field also includes former Australian Rally Championship
event winners Glen Raymond and Steve Glenney.
In all, 30 drivers and their support crews will be in the area from Friday.
Spectator guides are available
online, giving fans detailed information on where catch the action.
For more information, visit the event’s website www.northeasterncarclub.con.au/north-easternrally
Young talent time at local rallysprint
THE next generation of rally competitors will be in action in tomorrow’s Xeno North Eastern Rallysprint in the Moyhu Forest.
Many of the 30 entrants in the event are the third generation from their family to compete in one of the most exciting forms of motorsport.
The youngest will be 14-year-old Ryder Lennane, from Myrtleford.
The talented motorbike rider is switching to four wheels for this
event, co-driving for his father, Jason, in a Honda Civic.
Albury brothers Tom (20) and Jack (18) West are following in the wheel tracks of their father David and grandfather Bob, who both had impressive rally careers.
Matt Whitten (22) was born into a rallying family and will be making his driving debut in a Ford Fiesta, having spent the past three seasons sitting on the other side of the car.
Like Matt Whitten, Jackson Long’s father and grandfather were successful rally competitors, and the 17-year-old already has big plans aboard his Subaru Impreza RS.
Long will travel from north of Sydney, while other competitors in the rallysprint will come from as far as Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia.
The Xeno North Eastern Rallysprint has attracted a wide
Merriwa Magpies ready to impress in all-abilities carnival
ON Sunday, July 21 it’s the Merriwa Magpies’ turn to host the allabilities football carnival at the Wang Showgrounds.
Part of the statewide operation, Football Integration Development Association (FIDA), the Merriwa Magpies is one of six Northern Victoria teams participating in six carnivals throughout the year.
The competition includes teams from Wangaratta, Wodonga, North Albury, Benalla, Shepparton, and Echuca.
Team manager of the Merriwa Magpies, John Mullins said the carnival is a great opportunity to see the abilities these players have, to support the tournament, and to get involved in the community.
“It’s a great day out for someone looking for something to do on Sunday away from mainstream footy,” said Mullins.
The carnival provides a crucial pathway for people with a disability to get involved with clubs and sports in a capacity that is suited to them.
“FIDA aims to make sure the opportunities are the same for a disabled person or child who has a sporting aspiration - there are avenues [through] which they can come and join a team like ours,” he said.
“It’s an activity for all ability kids and adults, guys who want to play football - some of them play in mainstream football, but it doesn’t suit their needs as well as the modified program does.
“[The players] all have their favourite teams and players, they get support from local sponsors, they have their own uniforms, they see themselves as a team and they live for it through the winter.
“Some have aspirations to represent their zone or state, and we’ve had some guys go play in national carnivals.”
Starting with just two teams, Wangaratta and Wodonga, the competition began as an annual match and has since grown to six teams who participate in organised carnivals.
“Historically we played a game every year with the Wodonga group, and in the Ovens and Murray grand final at half-time as a feature game,” Mullins said.
“It involves people who have a disability who may have attended a special school or part of the NDIS program, some have been in the program for 10, 15 years.”
Now the players have the opportunity to train every Thursday and play a season of football.
Affiliated with the Wangaratta Magpies Football Club, the Merriwa Magpies have enabled people of all abilities to become involved in local football clubs, which play a central role in the local community.
Mullins said the program has been greatly supported by Maggie’s players and coaches and created an inclusive club environment.
range of competitors and cars, from Australian Rally Championship winners and the latest spec rally cars to complete novices.
The short, 60-kilometre route is seen as the perfect training or testing event ahead of the second half of a busy rally season.
Spectators can watch the action in the Moyhu Forest on Saturday, with full details available at www. northeasterncarclub.con.au/ north-eastern-rally
“[the all-abilities players] were keen to be seen as part of a real football team, they are a real football team now,” he said.
“It’s great to see the abilities these guys have which lends them to becoming part of the community in lots of ways.”
For more information about the competition, visit the FIDA website: https://www.aaaplay.org.au/ activity/fida-wangaratta-merriwamagpies.
FAMILY CONNECTION: Fourteen-year-old Ryder Lennane will co-drive for his dad, Jason, in a Honda Civic this weekend.
STAR VISITOR: Australian Rally Championship competitor Jamie Luff will drive his Toyota GR Yaris in this
PHOTO: Matt Whitten
Ben’s a two-time Olympian
Myrtleford’s Ben Buckingham is off to Paris for his second Olympic Games ygyp
By NATHAN DE VRIES
MYRTLEFORD product
Ben Buckingham has been named in Australia’s athletics squad for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, his second trip to the biggest stage on Earth.
Buckingham, 32, was selected in the 75-member athletics squad as one of two Aussie men set to contest the 3000m steeplechase.
After running a 8:20.95 at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, a personal best at the time and fourth-fasted in Australian history, Buckingham narrowly missed out on a finals berth, coming 22nd overall.
It’s been a long road back to the sports’ heights, with a series of injuries hampering progress since his last Olympics.
Buckingham missed nationals with a femur stress reaction and a knee injury over the summer of 202122, but rebounded to post his current PB of 8:19.79 in Europe, before solid runs at the world championships (ninth) and Birmingham Commonwealth Games (fifth).
After claiming his first national title in 2023, injuries again reared up, with osteitis pubis symptoms and later bone stress issues, but Buckingham bounced back with second place at the Oceania Championships in June 2024 with a time of 8:44, followed by an 8:21.34 just two weeks later in Finland.
Buckingham said it was rewarding to be chosen for his second Olympics appearance after the setbacks he’s overcome.
“It was a great sense of relief, because I’ve been really up against it this year,” he said.
“I had osteitis pubis last year and I missed the world champs because of it, and I had a very long recovery, it took me a long time to get going again.
ning and hoped to perform well come Paris.
“The body’s good, I ran a second-and-a-half off my PB in England in mid-June, and I’m getting fitter since then - I’ll be at the equivalent to the best shape I’ve ever been in, so that’s really exciting,” he said.
“There are no fastest qualifiers, it’s simply three heats of 12, top five across the line make it, no exceptions.
“As a spectator, it makes it really clear cut, which I’m looking forward to – you’re either in the top five or you’re not, there’s no grey area.
“I get a chance to line up with those guys and see where I stand.
“It’s ruthless but I’m also looking forward to it, because you only get two or three chances in your life to line up against the best guys in the world, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Buckingham said he was just grateful for the chance to represent his country and show to the world he has what it takes.
“I didn’t think I’d still be going at 32, I’m 33 in November,” he said.
“I’ve seen a lot of guys get really old really quickly in this sport, so to still be close to the best at this age is just really special and exciting.
“I’ve seen guys decline very quickly, you never know when’s your last season, so I’m just trying to enjoy this year at the moment.
“I owe a lot of this year to my new sponsor and coach Craig Mottram, we’ve probably had two-and-a-half years together now.
“I didn’t really get running again until January, and with an Olympics in August and qualifications ending in June meant I was on quite a tight timeframe.
mi Games in Turku which is about two hours outside of Helsinki, I did that on June 18.
“You’re incredibly lucky if you get to one, and I’m very lucky I get to go to two.
“I was OK domestically but I had to have a really big run in Europe which I managed to do at the Paavo Nur-
“The funny thing was everyone was saying ‘that’ll get you in, you’ll qualify’ but it’s not actually really until you get the call.
“It’s a real testament to all the years of work and everyone who’s supported me along the way, that’s really exciting.”
Qualifications for the
3000m steeplechase final at the Olympics has changed since Tokyo, from based purely on the fastest times overall through the heats, to the first five across the line in each heats.
Buckingham said he was feeling good about his run-
“I was a big fan of his growing up so to have him coaching me to a second Olympics just personally is very special.
“I’m looking forward to finishing off the journey.”
Ben Buckingham takes to the track in the Men’s 3000m Steeplechase at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, with the first round of heats starting on Monday, August 5.
GO FOR GOLD: Ben Buckingham in Turku, Finland, after qualifying for the 2024 Olympics. PHOTO: James Rhodes
PUTTING IN THE WORK: Ben Buckingham in the depths of training in London ahead of his second Olympics. PHOTO: Nate Rawsthorne
BEN’S OFF TO PARIS: Myrtleford runner Ben Buckingham is off to his second Olympics, picked to represent Australia in the 3000m Steeplechase at the Paris 2024 Games. PHOTO: pinja.a.photography
Future of footy on display
By NATHAN DE VRIES
NORTH East residents have the chance to get a sneak preview of the next generation of AFL and AFLW superstars this Saturday, when Wangaratta Showgrounds plays host to the Murray Bushrangers.
Both the Bushrangers boys and girls squads will take to the ground in their Coates Talent League round 13 clash with the Northern Knights.
Bushrangers talent manager Mick Wilson said having a match in home territory would save on travel times for a lot of the players and their families.
“It is good to have a home game, we don’t have many in the modern day format with the way the program is fixtured now,” he said.
“Even though it is a home game, some kids still travel up to two hours to get to a game – we cover a bit from a geographical perspective.
“For a lot of these kids, they’re doing Year 12 at the same time – it’s pretty exhausting for them, so it’s nice to not have to head into Melbourne.”
To add to the excitement of the day, between the end of the boys’ match and the start of the girls’, Wangaratta Auskickers will head onto the ground for a bit of a kick.
“Wangaratta Auskick reached out to see if they could jump in, and we’re really supportive of it,” Wilson said.
“Hopefully the kids get to see where they might hope to play at some stage in the
future, which would be really good.
“Hopefully they’ll all aspire to play for the Bushrangers some day.”
Wangaratta Magpies’ Joe Berry will be one to watch, having recently been awarded the Vic Country Richard Embleton Award for Most Valuable Player throughout the 2024 Marsh National Under 18 Championships.
Berry was also named in the tournament’s All
Australian side.
Wilson said there would be high-calibre footy on display, with the Bushrangers up against strong Knights teams.
“They’ll both be pretty tough games, the Knights are pretty strong in the girls and boys (programs),” he said.
“In the boys, hopefully we’ll have a relatively full-strength team - with national and academy games finished now, it means players we’ve had playing for the Allies and Vic
Country come back into the team.
“With the girls, we’ve had four girls playing with the Allies and Vic Country, so they’ll come back into the team.
“We’re looking forward to having two reasonable teams this week.”
The Murray Bushrangers will play at Wangaratta Showgrounds this Saturday, with the boys’ match to begin from 11.45am while the girls take to the field at 2.30pm.
PROMOTING SAFETY: Jesse Walkerden, Dusty Hogarth and Liam Bennett from the Centrals Junior Football Club will be playing this weekend to promote road safety.
Teaching young footy players about road safety
By CHLOE JAENICKE
THIS weekend the Centrals Junior Football Club will be ‘talking up slowing down’ as part of the TAC Road Safety Round against College Juniors Football Club.
Many clubs across the North East Border region will be part of the round to spread and amplify the message of road safety, with the Centrals JFC the only junior club participating this year.
Centrals JFC president, Dan Hogarth, said they decided to take part in the round as he believes it’s club’s responsibility to provide both fun and education for the players.
“As a junior footy club, we have a bit of a responsibility to not only provide the kids with a good game of footy but also to educate them about lots of different things in the community,” he said.
“TAC’s really good at promoting to young people about safe habits and we want to educate the kids about those kinds of things.”
Alongside the TAC Road Safety Round, the club will also be providing road safety programs for their Under 12s, Under 14s and Under 17s teams.
“These young people are not too far away from getting in the car and getting behind the wheel,” Mr Hogarth said.
“Some of them are a year or two away or already onto their Ls working towards their Ps.”
During the game, Centrals JFC players will be wearing blue TAC armbands to honour the lives lost on the road and to serve as a reminder to always drive safely.
The round will take place from July 19 to July 21 with Centrals JFC facing off against College JFC on Sunday, July 21.
The first game will be the Under 12s game at 8.50am, followed by the Under 14s and 17s later in the morning at the North Wangaratta Sports Reserve.
Dragons don pink sock for breast cancer support
THE Wangaratta Dragons played Albury Magpies last weekend and, as has become the tradition, wore pink socks to show the club’s support for breast cancer.
The socks are also a great contrast with the black socks of the Magpies, making a dreary day a bit more colourful.
The division three ladies played on their home ground against Magpies and took the win 2-0.
Imogen Mallinson played her first game of hockey for the Dragons and found herself on the post scoring her first goal.
Jamielee Sexton scored the second goal from a short corner pushed in by Brianna Cooper.
The team has become strong in their attacking and defence since the beginning of the season as a new team.
This weekend they play against the top team Corowa United hopefully to give them a run for their money.
Playing on grass will be a challenge for the Dragons as they are not used to this, but as usual, the girls are looking forward to a fun game as a strong team.
The division two Dragon men’s team travelled up the
highway on Sunday to take on the Magpies.
After a few weeks of tough losses, the Dragon men broke through for their first win of the season.
In what was a tough game with plenty of back and forth play, the Dragons were able to slip the ball past the Magpies goalie late in the fourth quarter.
The Dragons dominated possession with plenty of the play and controlled the ball well starting in the back field, with Sam Couche and Xavier Bennett being particularly strong.
Simon Lipshut, who backed up from his division three game the day before, worked well in the midfield and linked up plenty of times with Alex Ellem and Scott Tognola, providing plenty of attack and defence when required.
The forward pack of Stew Kerr, Henry Findlay, Izaac Cameron and Wes Samson put the pressure on the Magpies defence all game, coming close a couple of times to score.
It took a great pass from Stew Kerr across the goal to an open Wes Samson for the deflection into the goal.
The tension was still there
for the last five or so minutes, with the Dragons defence holding strong as the Magpies threw everything they had to try and score an equaliser.
Final score was 1-0.
The division two ladies were up against the Magpies on the weekend in Albury.
The Dragons were looking to peg back a win after a first round loss earlier in the season.
Wangaratta called upon some trusty division three players to field the team due
to some current injuries making numbers tight during the holidays.
Jane Kealey and Suzie Rudd were strong in defence with Carli Notman and Kylie Samson worked hard up forward.
Dragons started out on top, scoring in the first quarter off some wonderful rebound interceptions, Christy Christie the eventual goal scorer.
However, Magpies were not ready to let the Dragons run away with a win and worked hard to produce many goal-scoring shots, eventually scoring an impressive goal off a short corner.
While the Dragons managed to create several scoring shots and attack, the experienced backline of Magpies continued to break down the play. Magpies worked hard to open the game up and their continual pressure in the backs resulted in two further goals - finals scores 1-3 to Magpies.
PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke
TAKE THE SHOT: Imogen Mallinson prepares to strike.
DEFENCE: Wes Samson challenges for the ball in the Dragons’ backline.
HOMECOMING: Wangaratta’s Joe Berry is set to run out on the Showgrounds surface with the Murray Bushrangers this weekend.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
Danger game for Magpies
By WILLSON MACK
WANGARATTA could be in for a gloomy affair when they travel to Myrtleford to face the Saints tomorrow.
With tomorrow’s forecast looking a cool eight degrees with the possibility of a thunderstorm, it may be a wet day at the office.
The Saints have been in form of late, winning three of their past five affairs claiming the scalps of Albury, Wodonga and Lavington.
Wangaratta coach Ben Reid is expecting a challenge.
“If you’re talking about the form sides of the competition they’re certainly in the conversation,” Reid said.
“They’ve won three of their last four, they beat Albury at Albury, Lavington at Lavington and were with Yarrawonga until three quarter time.
“They’re playing some good footy and we’re well aware of that.
“It’s definitely a danger game, they’re a tough outfit that go hard at it and that’s an area we really want to improve this week so it’ll be a good challenge.”
Wangaratta were disappointed with last week’s efforts in their 31-point loss to Yarrawonga and are keen to rectify it tomorrow.
“Offensively we were dull and boring last weekend against Yarrawonga,” Reid said.
GUN: Waitai Tua will be looking to continue his solid form
“A
“Our basic skill execution also wasn’t great so there’s a couple of areas there that need to improve, particularly as we approach the end of the season.”
With just five games remaining until the finals series Wangaratta are currently only in the top five by percentage and are looking for a big finish to the home and away season.
Reid said the next five weeks will be crucial in planning for a potential finals tilt.
“In the last month of the home and away season you want to be edging towards your best footy,” he said.
you are lucky enough to get there.
“We’re going to be looking at who stands up and who puts their hand up and says they’re a senior footballer.”
Wangaratta will lose Pat Naish this weekend after he tweaked his hamstring in last weekend’s loss to the Pigeons.
“Pat (Naish) will miss this week but should return against Lavington after next week’s bye,” Reid said.
just not being confi-
little bit of that was to do with them and a little bit was us
dent so we want to be more daring with the footy this weekend.
“It’s also a good opportunity to look at what your best 22 looks like for finals if
“We’ve got a number of guys who can move to a wing, Waitai Tua has played well on a wing, Liam McVeigh can play there and Harry Hewitt could also go there if we need another inside mid.”
Hawks looking for speed against Panthers
Hawks host Panthers
By WILLSON MACK
WANGARATTA Rovers
look likely to return to the winners’ list when they meet Lavington at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow.
After a 36-point loss to Albury last weekend, Rovers face the Panthers who have won just one of their past four affairs, which was back on June 22 against Wodonga Raiders.
The Hawks escaped an upset loss against Lavington last time around when they saluted by just three points in round five.
Wangaratta Rovers operations manager Barry Sullivan said the Hawks are keen to rectify last weekend’s loss.
“We’ve got five rounds to go and clearly Albury played
well against us last week and we weren’t at our best so it’s a good opportunity to respond,” Sullivan said.
“The boys have put in a good week at training, there wasn’t much time spent reviewing the loss but we pointed out a few key areas that need to improve.
“No doubt there will be strong determination to get a win on our home ground.”
Last time around Lavington’s Billy Glanville amassed 30 touches along with seven clearances in an outstanding display.
However, the Panthers will be without their superstar who suffered a stress fracture in his foot two weeks ago in what is a massive blow.
“Last time I remember
Billy Glanville played a strong game but I think he might be out,” Sullivan said.
“I don’t think we’ll focus too much on them though, we’ll just worry about getting back to our process, apply good pressure and make a good fist of things in the midfield.”
With just five games remaining Rovers sit a win clear in second position and will be gunning to lock in a top two finish.
“The next few weeks is just about remaining confident and maintaining belief in the hard work we’ve put in across the season,” Sullivan said.
“List management is also really important – you don’t want to be carrying too many injuries heading into finals.”
By WILLSON MACK
WANGARATTA Rovers netballers will start favourites to claim their third win of the season.
The eight-placed Hawks host the last-placed Lavington who have also won just the two games this season.
Wangaratta Rovers were also seen as a chance to win last weekend against Albury but surprisingly went down by a convincing 20-goals.
Wangaratta Rovers assistant coach Stacey Lamb said she’s hopeful her side
can produce a good display.
“Last time we played Lavington they beat us but we will be trying our very best to get a win and play our form of netball,” Lamb said.
“Albury were great last week and had a few players that didn’t play last time we won against them.
“We are missing our young gun Ellie Miller in the court and hope to have her back from an ankle injury after the bye.
“Lavington have very tall, strong defence - with our moving ring of Bec
and Sami Kreltszheim I am hoping we can expose them with our speed.”
Meanwhile, Wangaratta takes on the sixth-placed Myrtleford in Magpies superstar Hannah Grady’s 200th A grade game.
The Saints been in solid touch of late and only went down to Yarrawonga by two goals just two weeks ago before downing Lavington by eight-goals last weekend.
The Magpies will be closely watching Saints’ shooter Daisy O’Kane who has been in fine form this season.
BOUNCE BACK: Jack Gerrish will play a pivotal role in Saturday’s clash with Lavington.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
YOUNG
against Myrtleford tomorrow.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
KEY PLATER: Molly Murray will be looking to continue her strong season tomorrow.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Rested Lions keen for a tough run to finals
WHOROULY’S A grade side will come back from their bye and front up against one of the competition’s best, the first of many tough matches before finals.
The Lions sit fifth on the ladder with two games’ worth of breathing room in the top six, heading into their round 16 match against second-placed Milawa.
With a tight ladder and future clashes with top three sides Greta and Bonnie Doon still to come, Whorouly will need to be at their best.
Coach Kelly Cousins said last weekend’s bye came at the perfect time after some injury concerns in their round 14 loss to King Valley.
“I think we had two go
down with ankle injuries, so it was an opportune time to have that break,” she said.
“I was really pleased with the girls’ effort, their intensity was really good – there were just a couple of things which didn’t go our way, but overall I was really pleased with their performance.
“We’ve got a really tough road home, we’ve got all of the top three sides and Moyhu, so that one will be one we’ll have to have our way in to make sure we stay in the finals.”
Last time the Lions and Dees met on the netball court, Milawa were far and away the better team, running out winners 58-31 back in round eight.
“They’re the gold stand-
ard in the competition, Greta and Milawa, you always know you’re in for a hard contest when you play them,” Cousins said.
“We had one of our midcourters out in that first game against Milawa, Bec Allen was away that week, so we’ll have her back which will be good – she’ll provide some stability in the midcourt.
“I think we’ve built on our connections in our front end, which has really helped us with our overall consistency.
“I also think our defence, Laura (Keighran), Eb (Allen) and Sally (Wood) have been connecting really well in our defence end as well, we’ve built at the back end as well,
so that’s pleasing.
“We build our game on a really strong defence, hopefully that pushes our attack end and that good energy flows from the back end to the front end.
“We know we’ve got that tough end and some away games, so it’ll do wonders for our confidence knowing we have the ability to play really consistent netball against the top teams.”
The Lions take on Milawa at the Milawa Recreation Reserve tomorrow.
Elsewhere, Moyhu will look to overcome a surging Bright, the Bombers take on the Panthers, King Valley hosts the Bats, and the Hawks head across to Tarrawingee.
Hawks facing an uphill battle
NORTH Wangaratta currently sits two games out from the top six and a ticket to September, but there’s still plenty of footy left to make up the ground.
Starting with Tarrawingee this weekend, the Hawks have five matches to make up the deficit to qualify for back-to-back senior finals campaigns.
Senior coach Steve Manning said there was some pressure on the side to make the six, but the team was trending in the right direction.
“On the surface of things, we’re probably under the pump at the moment,” he said.
“Besides the two games we dropped against Goorambat, we’re in exactly the same position we were in last year.
“We’re fortunate in that we’ve had our bye already, so we’re going to have five games to gain those points before the end of the sea-
son, where a few of our competitors have the bye and it takes an opportunity away.
“We had our injuries
earlier in the year, we got through a tough period during that, but over the last few weeks we’re starting to see everyone return and starting
to get a bit of consistency within our 21.
“We’re starting to build and get some consistency to finish the year off strong.
“All we can do is put out our best team every week, make sure we’re playing our best footy, and the result in the end will hopefully take care of itself.”
After the Bulldogs (currently 10th), North Wangaratta faces Bonnie Doon (second), Benalla All Blacks (11th), Bright (third) and King Valley (sixth).
Manning was backing his entire squad in to perform across the ground in these five vital clashes and hopefully snag some valuable points along the way.
“We’ve got three winnable games, then play two of the top three sides as well – your aims and focusses change a little bit depending on the opponent,” he said.
“Our backline has been really super consistent and we’ve been able to improve our intercept game and
springboard out of our backline.
“Our midfield is really starting to find some consistency – we’re probably just lacking that fourth or fifth on-baller to help with rotations and depth in that midfield.
“At times we’ve given Jay Barker a role from the backline, Tom Johnson and Zach Heard have run through there a bit as well.
“We’re probably going to need a little bit better success rate to increase our scoring efficiency with our inside 50s, it’s probably where we need to improve, and it’s something we work on a lot and talk about a lot.
“We’ve had good games and we’ve had poor games in that regard, so I think over the next few weeks we’ll see increased efficiency when it comes to our inside 50s and scoring opportunities.”
North Wangaratta takes on Tarrawingee this Saturday at the Kennel.
Goorambat and King Valley Roos to shape finals make-up
ONE of the most critical matches in determining which teams make the 2024 senior finals series goes down this weekend at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve, when King Valley hosts the Bats.
The two sides sit fifth and sixth on the ladder, even on points, but the race to guarantee seeing September is heating up, with just two matches separating eighth from fifth.
If the Bats can pull one over on King Valley, like they did back in round three, it’ll put some space between Goorambat and some wouldbe finalists.
Despite being hampered by injuries to star players in recent weeks, Goorambat coach Ben Wapling was proud of his side for pulling together to get the Bats into
a strong position ahead of finals.
“I won’t lie, it’s been tough because like other clubs, we’ve just had so many out,” he said.
“We’ve got about six really good senior players out at the moment and that’s been consistent – you might get a couple back, but then you lose a couple.
“It’s just been a year I’ve never experienced in that sense.
“With that all said, I’m still pretty happy with where we’re at.
“If we can get to the end of the season and hopefully be in that finals race and we can get everyone on the park, I think we’ll be in a lot better shape.”
Star forward Duane ‘Brush’ Haebich is back on the training track after tear-
ing muscles in his shoulder, but is unlikely to feature this weekend, while the club is unsure if one of the best onballers in the league, Jamie Dunne, will play this weekend due to soreness.
“We’re still unsure on Jamie and whether he’ll play this week, he’s been carrying some soreness in his knee, we’ll have a better idea after training,” Wapling said.
“We’re definitely hoping to get Brush back before finals.
“It’s been a struggle in that sense, because it’s not just what he kicks, it’s his leadership down there and his experience with the boys –he’ll be vocal all day, so that’s definitely been tougher.
“What we’ve tried to do is we haven’t rushed players back, we’ve got to make sure they’re right.
“There’s no point scraping into finals and then not having the players, it’s a waste.”
The Roos will be a tough opponent for the bruised Bats, boasting a dangerous midfield unit with the likes of Sam Evans and Connor Shanley, and proven goalkickers in Tony Ciancio and Ryan Wait.
Wapling said the key was to not let King Valley dictate terms on their home deck.
“They always play well on their own smaller ground, and we’re definitely not taking that game for granted,” he said.
“I don’t think the scoreboard can reflect anything against those sides, they just don’t give up, they float back into our forward line and ran it well out of there.
“Our pressure from our
forward line has got to be better too.
“We’re not taking anything for granted, we don’t even see ourselves as being there yet –
we’ve got to take every game and hopefully get to the end, respect our opposition, and be playing finals with a better side on paper.”
BRUISED BAT: The Bats may be without star midfielder Jamie Dunne, who pulled up sore after Goorambat’s clash with Bonnie Doon on the weekend.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
KEY FOCUS: Sally Wood and the Whorouly defensive end will be vital in the Lions flipping the script in their rematch with Milawa this weekend. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
FINALS COUNTDOWN: Tyler Schulze and the Hawks have five matches to sneak into the top six.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au STORIES
Winning chance for Devils
By WILLSON MACK
WANGARATTA City have
a golden opportunity to claim their fourth win of the season when they meet Albury Hotspurs at Aloyisus Park on Sunday.
While reaching the top eight looks like a stretch, Wangaratta has four games left to make a late charge but will nearly need to beat all of Hot-
spurs, St Pat’s, Myrtleford and Wodonga Diamonds.
Hotspurs sit just one place above the Devils and Wangaratta City coach Raff Molinaro is eyeing a win.
“Hotspurs is definitely a winnable game for us,” Molinaro said.
“Playing away makes it a bit tougher but we’re definitely looking for a win on Sunday.
“Again it’s going to come
down to who’s available –Raul (Pahina) was a late out last weekend with illness so he should be back this weekend.”
Wangaratta City has had a difficult season penciling just three wins in, along with three draws but Molinaro is proud of how his side has been fairing.
“As long as we focus on structure and play the whole 90 minutes like we
have the past two weeks then we’ll definitely be a chance,” Molinaro said.
“There’s been improvement across the board over the past few weeks which has been great to see.
“The boys are playing for each other and as a coach that’s all you want to see, especially considering we haven’t had the results we wee after this season.”
Lady Devils not fazed by forfeit, targeting ‘Spurs
By NATHAN DE VRIES
DESPITE having to forfeit from their Cobram game Lady Devils senior coach Tarry Masters said the squad was ready to take on the dangerous Albury Hotspurs this Sunday at Aloysius Park.
After a rescheduling of their round 14 match with the Roar, Wangaratta were set to take on Cobram on Saturday and Hotspurs on Sunday, but a lack of players available forced the forfeit.
Cobram will be granted the win 3-0, in line with AWFA protocols.
Masters said he wasn’t concerned with the Cobram outcome.
“We were missing nine players, and they didn’t want to reschedule, so we said we’ll have to forfeit,” he said.
“It was on a Saturday : two found out what their work shifts were so that had them out, one’s got a deb on that night and that’s involving a few of the players, Bianca (Mulqueen) was away for the weekend and she only found out Monday with commitments down in Melbourne, Charlotte (Brundell) is unavailable too, and (Caitlin) Rizzo could only play one.
“It is community football, you can’t force people
to play, it’s not like playing in the higher leagues in Melbourne or wherever.
“We would’ve had to play players who then would be ineligible to play in the division two side come finals.”
The Lady Devils sit two points behind Cobram in fifth on the ladder, but with a favourable run home against some lower-ranked sides, Wangaratta are eyeing off a top four finish.
The side will be tested this weekend however, taking on league powerhouse Albury Hotspurs.
Wangaratta will look to improve on their last meeting, a 2-12 hammering, with Masters confident of a better showing.
“It’s certainly a challenge, we go in with no expectations, but it’s an opportunity to see how some of the younger girls go against if not the best team in the league, then the second best,” he said.
“Bianca (Mulqueen) is not playing, we’re missing probably three or four, but in saying that, you don’t know what they’ve got, whether they’re missing players or not.
“They (Hotspurs) tend to drop off around this time of year, I’ve been told, because they do lose players.
“They’ll be in the same situation as us with division two girls not being able to play for fear of not
being available for division two (finals), so they’re going to have to juggle some players.
“I think third is out of reach, but you don’t know what’s happening with other sides - we’ll get over this weekend, and there’s no reason we can’t win all of the remaining matches. ”
Hit the winning run or just had a great day. Get a permanent reminder with great sports shots from The Chronicle
TALL TASK: Matilda Aggenbach and the Lady Devils face top two side Hotspurs on the road this weekend.
PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography
WINNABLE CLASH: Vitaly Leschen and Wangaratta City take on Albury Hotspurs on Sunday.
PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography
2024 AFL business tipping footy
Friday, July 19
Essendon vs. Adelaide Crows (MRVL)
Saturday, July 20
GWS GIANTS vs. Gold Coast SUNS (GS)
St Kilda vs. West Coast Eagles (MRVL)
Hawthorn vs. Collingwood (MCG)
Geelong Cats vs. Western Bulldogs (GMHBA)
Port Adelaide vs. Richmond (AO)
Sunday, July 21
Brisbane Lions vs. Sydney Swans (G)
Fremantle vs. Melbourne (OS)
Carlton vs. North Melbourne (MRVL)
ROUND FOR ROAD SAFETY
CENTRALS Junior Football
Club players (from left) Jesse Walkerden, Dusty Hogarth and Liam Bennett are gearing up for this weekend’s TAC Road Safety Round.
Across the region, football clubs will be ‘talking up slowing down’ to reduce incidents on our roads.
Story page 34.
WANGARATTA coach and Collingwood premiership player Ben Reid can see the AFL attributes that has seen Joe Berry named in the under 18 All-Australian team.
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
Off the back of a strong under 18 National Championships for Victoria Country that included a three goal haul in the thrilling final against Vic Metro, the small forward was picked in the All-Australian.
The Magpie local and Murray Bushranger is now putting a case forward to being selected in the first round of this year’s AFL National Draft Berry played six senior games in the 2023 O&M
season where he booted 11 goals and Reid said it’s clear he’s full of talent.
“He showed last year in the games he played with us that he’s got plenty of talent,” Reid said.
“He kicked three in a game against Albury and made some of their senior players look silly and they probably didn’t know who this young skinny kid was.
“He’s got good speed, great
footwork and good skills so to me it’s no surprise that he’s doing so well.
“Last year he was always the first to training working on his speed and touch and you don’t see a lot of kids his age doing those extras.”
Berry’s been outstanding at Coates Talent League level as well where he’s booted 22 majors in eight games for the Murray Bushrangers, featuring in
the best on six occasions.
“He’s definitely got AFL attributes, he’s a beautiful kick, good overhead for his size and is just a really smart player that always seems to bob up in the right spots,” Reid said.
“He’s also a great runner that gets up and down the ground and if you look at someone like Joe Richards that’s probably what got him drafted - that ability to get
from contest to contest.
“The Bushrangers are clearly doing a great job with him and the whole club at Wangaratta is happy to see him doing well.” Berry will be in action for the Murray Bushrangers this weekend when they face Northern Knights at Norm Minns Oval.
