Wangaratta Chronicle 191022

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Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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THOU SHALL NOT PASS: Debris has blocked the footbridge between Walter Street and Willow Drive, after the creek rose above the handrails at the weekend.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

FINGERS CROSSED SES confident river rises will not reach more severe levels despite p forecast

DOWNPOURS forecast from as early as tomorrow are not expected to create major flood activity in the North East, with SES officials expecting the region’s worst flooding is behind us.

Between 30 and 55mm is expected to fall on Wangaratta from tomorrow through to Saturday, as the region’s major rivers continue to drain after reaching the major flood

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

level late last week.

After peaking at 12.78m on Saturday morning, the Ovens River sat just above the moderate flood level yesterday, at 12.41m.

In total, between 55 and 110mm is forecast through to Monday by the Bureau of

Meteorology.

SES incident controller Ray Jasper said accurate rainfall modelling was expected to become available today, but said early indications suggested river rises would not be as severe as the week previous.

“The (early) modelling unfortunately is showing that the North East is going to get the highest rainfall come Thursday, Friday and Saturday - you will see river

rises in the North East at the Ovens, Kiewa, King and other tributaries,” he said.

“At this stage we’re still trying to work out what the impact is - we need to reinforce for people it won’t be as bad as last week’s (rainfall).

“The catalyst on it is that there may be thunderstorms bedded in it - if a thunderstorm forms over one of the sub-catchments or is large

enough, we may see things happening in some of the sub-catchments.

“In saying that, we can’t encourage everyone enough to be vigilant - those who don’t have the Vic Emergency app please register - that’s our primary source of getting information out about what’s happening in your area.”

Modelling for last week’s flooding event saw SES

confident of the region’s expected rainfall days ahead of the downpour, with local units establishing sandbag collection points to assist residents in their preparation.

Mr Jasper said surplus sandbags had been forwarded onto Shepparton in the aftermath, where 225,000 sandbags have been laid to protect the local community.

■ Continued page 2

Start your new beginning this Spring and SELL SMART today!

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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SES confident river rises will not reach severe levels despite wet forecast ■

OUT OF PLACE: Debris carried down-stream by rising river levels at the weekend, such as those at Three Mile Creek, has been left strewn throughout the region’s parklands. Responsible for the maintenance of footbridges and walking paths, council said it was working through community requests as quickly as possible.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

From page 1 He said it was unlikely a new sandbag collection point would be required in the North East this weekend, but urged anyone nervous to contact their local SES unit by calling 132 500.

“The preparation is if you live on a flood plain, please prepare for it,” he said.

“I don’t want to be a pessimist but this is a pattern we’re moving into - the rain we have over this week isn’t the last rain we’re going to have over the next couple of months, it will be continuous - we’re in a La Nina event and it’s starting to show in Victoria.”

Rural City of Wangaratta chief executive officer Brendan McGrath said council would continue to oversee recovery efforts

in the coming weeks, but stressed SES remained the lead agency in responding to flooding concerns, with council assisting with distribution of information and advice where required.

“The recent weather culminating in the flood events of the past four days has been concerning for all across the Rural City of Wangaratta,” he said.

“A number of our gardens, parks and recreation spaces are in flood affected areas, and we appreciate the community’s cooperation with closures we have made to ensure public safety.

“Many roads across the municipality have been affected by flooding and this may continue into next week - please follow Vic Roads for road closures at https://

traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/hume.

“Any damage to roads or bridges can be reported to Council at, https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov. au/Services/Report-or-request/ Bridges-Paths-and-Roads.

“We were constantly patrolling and checking roads during the flooding, and continue to do so now to ensure roads are safe to reopen as water recedes.

“Please drive to the conditions of the roads, and never drive through floodwater.

“Rural City of Wangaratta has received $500,000 from the Victorian Government’s Council Flood Support Fund - this will be used for clean-up activities, restoring local facilities such as our parks and recreation areas, and road repairs.”

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

CUT OFF: Tracks to camping grounds along the King River were quickly cut off as floodwaters branched throughout Sara Allsop’s Edi property late last week.

TEMPERATURES: Wednesday Max 26 Min 8 Mostly sunny Thursday

Max 23 Showers

Friday

Max 23 Min 15 Possible thunderstorm

Saturday

Max 23 Showers

Min 14

Sunday

Max 23 Showers

Min 14

RAINFALL: Wangaratta

Major King River flooding compounds valley’s woes

Min 13

Region g damaged g byy second major j weather event for the year y r

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

0.2 mm

68.8 mm

Lake Buffalo

0.2 mm

102.6 mm

Cheshunt

0.2 mm

150.2 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Tuesday

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OVERFLOW: Floodwaters rose rapidly at the rear of the Edi property.

PHOTOS: Riverside King Valley

THE King River roared into a raging torrent late last week, with persistent heavy rains throughout the valley causing the river to break its banks and threaten low-lying properties in the region.

In the week to 9am Monday, 207mm of rain at Whitlands and 150mm at Cheshunt had fueled a river system which quickly rose above the major flood level as early as Thursday night, with floodwaters branching across roadways at Moyhu and Edi, isolating communities deeper in the valley.

Edi resident Sara Allsop’s Wangaratta-Whitfield Road property saw floodwaters encroach on a rear shed on Thursday afternoon, before the runoff entered the house around 4am Friday morning.

“We’ve got a slightly lower patch back behind the shed so it’s not abnormal for this time

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

of year for the water to come up behind the shed, but it got up to there and we thought if it keeps raining like this it might come up a bit further - within an hour we went to check again and it was inside the shed,” she said.

“I’ve only been on the property for 10 years - the last big floods that came through here were in 2010 so my partner kind of prepared me and said there’s going to be water in the house.

“The main house we spend a lot of time in we got about an inch of water through the kitchen and dining area and the lounge area is a foot lower so that was completely submerged.

“We got everything that was

Police investigate snapped park trees LOCAL police are investigating reports of damage to several trees at Bachelors Green earlier this month.

Several of the small trees had branches snapped off, or the foliage of the trees severed entirely, with police understanding the damage took

place between October 7 and 10.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Leading Senior Constable Newton at Wangaratta Police Station on 03 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and cite reference number 220327684.

on the floor - the dog beds, the baskets of shoes, my guitars - I couldn’t have them sitting on the floor in the water so we moved everything up onto the pool table.

“I think it had gone down below the level of the floorboards by two in the afternoon, but it wasn’t until the next day the water had almost completely gone from the other room.”

The property, which lies just south of Edi around 100m from the riverfront, was smashed by a supercell thunderstorm earlier this year, toppling trees, damaging cars and destroying a front window of the residence.

Ms Allsop said the latest weather event had been incredibly damaging, particularly after the family were forced to cancel a month of bookings at their riverside camping business in the aftermath.

“We’ve copped it this year and with them predicting another 100mm this week I’m like ‘no’ - if we get another 100mm this week I’m going to have PTSD from the rain,” she said.

“Everything stinks - it’s getting to the point where I walk into the house and I’m like ‘where are my candles?’

“So far we’ve cancelled about a month’s worth of bookings because we think even if we don’t get the rain this week it’s going to take us a while to clean up and it’s going to take a while for the ground to dry up for us to get anything down there.

“We’ve been for a walk every day to wherever we can get to and just walking down around some of the campsites you’re sinking in the mud so there’s no way you’d get vehicles in there.

“It’s a bit of a mission but I’m sure we’ll get there.”

DAMAGED: Police are investigating damage to a number of small trees at Batchelors Green from October 7 to 10. PHOTO: Police Eyewatch

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 3

“Daunting” floods wreak havoc on horse centre ONE Mile Creek floods have have put Tracy McPhee and husband Doug‘s family owned Neddy Park Equestrian Centre under water as they scurry to keep their livestock safe from floodwaters.

Rainfall totals of almost 100mm were recorded across the Ovens and King catchment in the 48 hours from last Wednesday to 9am Friday Ms McPhee secured her lifelong dream to own a horse riding centre two years ago when she and husband Doug started up the Equestrian Centre in Laceby.

The Neddy Park Equestrian Centre prides itself on offering a broad range of services such as mountain trail/obstacle course, clinics and is suitable for both experienced riders and nervous riders looking to get back on the horse.

Since being in business, the McPhees have been facing fire warnings in 2020, received damages in the earthquake last year and is now under water.

Residing nearby One Mile Creek, Ms McPhee said she was wary the property could become under threat as the rains hit Thursday and the creek became bigger behind them, but never anticipated how quickly it would all happen.

“Thursday afternoon it started coming in, we‘ve got a couple of horses out in the paddocks near the creek, three broodmares out the back and four other horses so we basically moved them all to higher ground,” she said.

“We realised that across the road the water was starting to break through into our property.

“We ended up with all the water coming across the road, thanks goodness I managed to get a friend, Sue and her husband Neil to help us, we ended up going to get mares out the back.

“We were in water up to the middle of our thighs, by the time we got the mares back to the stables it was up to the top of our thighs.

“I knew it would come up fast, but I couldn‘t get over how fast it was actually filling within that time it took to get the mares, it was daunting.”

Ms McPhee said from there on was a state of worry, as rain continued to tumble down throughout the night, she was concerned

IN THE THICK OF IT: Tracey McPhee received one of the frghts of her life as floodwaters wreaked havoc on her Equstrian Centere in Laceby as she scurries to keep her horses safe from more rain to come.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling THE AFTERMATH: Shots of the McPhee’s Laceby property on Friday show the pools of water across the road from the McPhee’s Neddy Park Equestrian Park that flooded into the property Thursday afternoon. for the welfare of her horses “I changed my set of clothes, walking around in the paddocks in water above my knees with a torch to see if the other horses were ok,” she said.

“I was out there at 3 o‘clock in the morning walking the paddocks just making sure the horses were ok because they‘re my everything.

“I didn‘t get back to bed until 4:30 that morning, it was scary.”

Thankfully Ms McPhee‘s horses were safe in the stables and receive no damage to the house, which she was extremely grateful for.

Ms McPhee said it was upsetting to see so much investment and money into the equestrian

centre business go “down the drain”.

“Our new sand arena is completely under water, our obstacle course had part of it floating, it‘s torn apart and hit the fence,” she said.

“There‘s some decking we need to rebuild as well, but luckily it didn‘t come in the house.

“We will rebuild but it was just a bit of a blow.”

Recovery and sandbagging efforts are difficult for Ms McPhee and her husband, as work injuries have limited their abilities to lift and place sandbags.

Ms McPhee said she is preparing the best they can for another hit of rain forecasted this weekend, and will graciously accept

any help they can get to help protect their property.

“With the rains coming again, we have some people who are taking some of the horses away so we can prepare ourselves,” she said.

“It‘s none else‘s problem, I understand that but it‘s a shame with our injuries that we can‘t lift any sandbags.

“We want to have sandbags in front of the stables just to know that if I have to get the horses again they‘re going to be safe.

“It‘s all good taking the horses to higher ground where they might be safe but you get so worried because of the floods coming through are so bad, it‘s hard to know where it‘s actually safe.”

Flooding recovery begins RECOVERY efforts in the wake of widespread flooding throughout the state are set to receive a $351m boost from the State Government, funding vital road and cleanup works ahead of more rain this week.

Announced earlier this week, a $165m emergency road repair blitz will support crews in finding and fixing potholes and road surfaces across Victoria, with the Hume region of particular concern after major flooding impacted communities around Wangaratta, Benalla, Euroa and Seymour late last week.

The fund will also cover large-scale works such as the rebuilding of roads, bridges and culverts in the region.

Premier Daniel Andrews said crews had already made significant progress in repairing parts of the Hume Freeway, and said the state’s immediate focus was on ensuring roadways were safe for use by emergency service crews and freight.

“There isn’t a second to waste as we begin recovery in flood-affected communities - whether it’s support for households, clean-ups or local roads, we’ll deliver the support Victorians need,” he said.

“There is a significant job ahead of us but we’re equal to it - I know that all levels of government will keep working together to get this job done.”

A further $150m will be used to coordinate a statewide clean-up, and allow crews to undertake hazard assessment and demolition of structures deemed to be severely damaged by the floodwaters.

Upgrades will also be made to Emergency Management Victoria and the State Control Centre, with $15m set to support the coordination of emergency responses and disaster recovery going forward.

The waste levy for flood waste at local landfill areas is also set to be waived until the end of the year, with affected communities in Alpine, Indigo, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Benalla LGAs joining 41 other local council areas across the state in having gate and waste fees waived by the site operator.

The rebates aim to ensure all flood waste can be disposed of at landfill free of charge, with the waste levy usually between $62.95 per tonne and $125.90 per tonne depending on the waste and location of the landfill.

Separate community support initiatives have also been launched in recent days by the Salvation Army and not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT, in order to support those displaced by the flooding.

Some $2m from the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal funds is set to support floodaffected communities across Victoria, NSW and Tasmania, while donations from GIVIT are set to be redirected straight to individuals in need.

The initiative, in partnership with the State Government, allows those in flooded areas to list the items they are in dire need of, which can then be funded by giving citizens.

To donate, visit https://www.givit.org.au/ storms-and-flooding and filter by location.

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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LIVING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE

Transition to all electric: Future proofing homes

By JOHN NAYLOR WANGARATTA LANDCARE & SUSTAINABILITY INC. Making our houses all electric will halve Australia’s emissions and save money.

At the beginning of the 20th century, horses pulled carriages, coaches and carts carrying people and goods.

By 1930, petrol engines were doing most of that work.

In the 1950s, the baker and milkman were among the last to shift from hayburners to fossil fuels.

In 2022, we are starting another momentous change. Australia is shifting from 20th century fossil fuels to 21st century renewable electricity,

generated directly from the sun and wind, or coming via batteries or other storage.

Fossil fuels will backup renewable generation through the transition, a bit like the baker and milky’s carts of the 1950s.

The new world will be cleaner, quieter, healthier, and cheaper.

Homes of the future like the one illustrated already exist in Wangaratta.

They are cleaner because no fuel is burnt in them, or emissions released.

Empowering tĂŶŐĂƌĂƩĂ to Adapt to a Changing Climate:

The chef doesn’t breathe the exhaust of a gas stove.

The cooktop is electric, and if induction, heats as instantly and controllably as gas.

Neither the hot water system nor the space heater burns gas.

The heat comes from very efficient, exhaustless, electrically driven heat pumps.

The electric lawnmower is quiet, refuels from a power point.

No trip to the servo, funnel, or fuel spill. It does not have any exhaust.

The car is electric too, and at least with its fuel comes from the roof, not a service station.

Rooftop solar powers

Ăůů ƚŽ ĐƟŽŶ͗ ĚĂƉƟŶŐ ŚŽŵĞƐ for livability in a changing Climate

And they will be cheaper to run. Saul Griffith reckons over $5,000 a year cheaper for the average Australian household.

That is every year, because there is no gas bill, and nothing spent at the service station to fuel the mower.

Electricity from the car charger, if you have to buy it, will be vastly cheaper than the petrol or diesel fuel today.

The switch does not come for nothing. So how do you do it?

One upgrade step at a time, as appliances reach the end of their useful life, and as their price comes down.

Or quicker if you can.

Local videos exploring changes we can make to enhance liveability and reduce our

,ŽŵĞ ŶĞƌŐLJ ĸĐŝĞŶĐLJ dŽŽůŬŝƚ

these homes of the future most of the time.

In sunshine, it powers the house directly, and fills a home battery, then sends excess to the grid.

Grid power flows in

seamlessly when the panels and battery cannot do it alone.

More, grid power is clean power.

Victoria’s electricity is usually around 30% renewable, rising to a tad over 50% at times.

That proportion is on the rise.

These homes of the future do not emit greenhouse gases, and when all Australian homes are like these, 42% of Australia’s emissions will be gone, says Saul Griffith in his book, The Big Switch. (Three copies free to borrow, are in the Wangaratta Library or https://www. rewiringaustralia.org/ )

carbon emissions

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 5

Home, sweet home

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

ALEX Carmody’s relaxed grin says it all - he’s rapt to be home in Wangaratta, after more than two months in hospital following the amputation of his left leg.

Having spurred the Wangaratta district’s giving spirit as an integral part of local Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal fundraising for more than 50 years, the tables were turned recently when Alex himself became the focus of an appeal.

Locals and those who know the community-minded 81-yearold donated more than $16,000 via a GoFundMe campaign, to help with renovations required at Alex and wife Judy’s Wangaratta home before he could return from the rehabilitation unit at Wodonga hospital.

Alex’s stint in Wodonga followed the below-the-knee amputation at The Alfred in Melbourne, which was triggered by trauma resulting from a car accident last year.

With the help of generous locals including tradespeople, the necessary works have been undertaken, and Alex is back in Wangaratta and learning to negotiate his home in a wheelchair while also gaining proficiency in the use of his prosthetic leg.

“It’s a bit more challenging

WHERE THE HEART IS: Alex Carmody is thrilled to be back at home, following surgery to remove his left leg and with great support from the community to assist with required upgrades to his Wangaratta house.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling than I thought, but there are lots of people worse off than me,” he said.

“It’s just great to be home.”

He said it was also a huge relief to be free of the constant pain he had been experiencing because of his leg injury.

“In the end, I was getting up in the middle of the night to do word searches in the kitchen to take my mind off it. It’s the worst pain I’ve ever endured,” he said.

Having read seven books in

his favoured true crime genre - and tired of counting the tiles on the hospital ceiling - while awaiting his return to Wangaratta, Alex said he was now “keen to get going”.

He said nothing would stop him taking up his mantle with RCH Appeal fundraising, and he hoped to be back collecting donations at the entrance to APCO Wangaratta as soon as possible.

Alex said he was overwhelmed by the community re-

sponse to the GoFundMe Page, which he believes is further evidence of Wangaratta’s generous nature.

“I know every time they are called on, the public are just great; there’s a real sense of community here,” he said.

Judy agreed: “This is the best place in the world, and we wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. There are hundreds of people we’d like to thank, so thank you very much to them all.”

Woman blasted after $1000 spending spree A WANGARATTA woman accused of using a stolen bank card to purchase more than $1100 in goods over a three day period will be required to refund the card’s owner and pay almost double in fines as a result of her offending.

The 43-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, pleading guilty to obtaining financial advantage and deception charges after police dropped allegations she personally stole a bank card early last year.

The court heard the defendant and a coaccused had first used the card on January 7 last year, spending $1105.64 during a 72 hour period which included 22 transactions at various stores throughout the rural city.

Bank charges included a $45 charge at a local telecommunications store and the purchase of a 40-pack of cigarettes, as well as funding taxi journeys throughout Wangaratta.

Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said the accused and coaccused had each made admissions to being at the locations where each charge was made, but denied the offending when interviewed.

Comprehensive CCTV footage is alleged to have caught the pair in the act.

Defending herself in court, the accused said she couldn’t remember the offending, and said the offending was out of character as she would ordinarily purchase 20-packs of cigarettes.

She said she had also been using her own personal bank card intermittently at the time of the offending.

In convicting and fining the accused $2000, Magistrate Peter Dunn said the endeavour had been foolish.

“You were very foolish to involve yourself in this,” he said.

He also ordered the woman repay the $1105.64 in full, granting a three-month stay for the repayment.

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03 5722 1214

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Flooding event a major wake–up call LAST weekend‘s major flooding event was a telling reminder of the dangers wet weather poses to our community.

For months and months, authorities have warned of the likelihood of a wet spring, with the La Nina weather event threatening consistent, heavy rainfall in a part of the country already susceptible to above–average pours.

The torrential rain we received last week is not unheard of for this part of the world at this time of year, although the threat of similar downpours consistently taking place throughout the remainder of spring is certainly concerning.

Already this month, Wangaratta has almost doubled its mean October rainfall, according to statistics dating back to 1987, and further torrential rain is forecast and expected for later this week.

It‘s a weather phenomenon which doesn‘t appear to be going anywhere in a hurry, and as a result, it‘s vital local residents are prepared if faced with another major flooding event.

All too often last week, SES were called to local residences caught out by the rising river levels, either unable to enact their flood plan or doing the wrong thing.

People driving through floodwaters despite strict instruction not to placed undue duress on the region‘s emergency service crews, and are something which would need to be addressed in the event of another serious flooding event.

The authorities have assured us the worst has passed but with a word of caution; no one can be 100 per cent certain when predicting the weather.

Remember, sometimes it pays to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

4 Roofing items 5 Dissolve 6 Obliterations 7 Quaking 8 Traps 15 Unoccupied 16 Dressed 17 Species of rye-grass 19 Short sleep 21 Chastity 22 Beverage 23 Does wrong 24 Container 26 Come forth 27 Dealer 28 Smooth and cylindrical 29 Painter 31 Expressions of yearning 34 Mine opening SOLUTION M E E T E R R L A M E T S P U N I A R A D L E P T E S S E A D I R D G E I G H T T S E

S U N A O R T E I S O S A E R T L I S C T

S D E R R S E G

ACROSS 1 Headwear 5 Fitting 9 Adder 10 Ladder step 11 Take by theft 12 Crippled 13 Notches 14 Skin opening 16 Yields 18 Combine 20 Heavy substance 21 Place of bliss 24 Minted drink 25 False teeth 28 Former Russian ruler 30 Coalesce 31 Prophets 32 Web 33 Lowest point 35 Exploit 36 Icy cold 37 S-shaped moulding 38 Vision 39 Corrosion 40 Cults DOWN 2 Meal course 3 Dodged

T I P L E N S P J U U R G E N E E S U S

• •

Sarah Kate: Baton the hatches folks!!

Vezz Davern: While we all sitting in our nice warm dry houses it’s hard not to think about all the

poor homeless people living along the river Freda Spur: Hopefully the levy bank there won’t break Andrew Barnes: In 93 the asphalt lifted off that bridge like a piece of carpet, and tore the handrail off.

Julie Anderson: It’s coming up fast Aris Kouitoros: Oh wow that’s amazing Maria Benedetti: Geepers!!

• •

• • •

• • • • • • ••

John Benedetti: Maria Benedetti well said Mark Wilkinson: Crazy weather John Liz Kerr John Liz Kerr: Mark Wilkinson Yes too much rain Lesley Anderson: Wow stay safe everyone Stacey Thayer: Jillian Thayer this is our place Benn Ramage: Jasmine Purcell time to get the kayaks out Sandy Hickey: Wow.!

Gabriella Ismale: Was just below the bottom of the bridge this morning

• •

Kylie Wealands: Amber, we are watching closely.

John Pratt: Sophie Smith wowsers

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A constitutional figurehead is needed WHEN Queen Elizabeth II commenced her reign in 1952 the dismantling of the British colonialism and the yolk of British oppression had well started.

The late Queen served well and carried out duties with distinction.

Queen Elizabeth is associated with a period of British decolonisation not colonisation.

Our governor general has non-constitutional functions which costs Australians taxpayers in excess of $25 million a year and support an office of some 76 employees.

The monarchy exists at a time when 39 of some 54 commonwealth countries have chosen their own head of state.

The majority of voters in the 1999 referendum voted for a republic, 40 per cent of those voted against it.

The recent tributes are well founded to a good Queen who advocated with dignity against a previous genocidal empire which is finally dying.

For Australia, hereditary monarchy should now inspire a sense of self identity rather than having a head of state serving from a multitude of palaces with hundreds of servants, horses, carriages and the best of British speechwriters, at a very significant cost.

The Queen’s passing will reignite debate and a challenge in order to achieve Australia’s constitutional independence.

We alone are the masters of our own self determined destiny and future.

John Suta, Wangaratta

The dangers of flood diversion self-evident

R E V E A D D E A D R N T E R L A D E E R

B E N S T R C E L E A D E M T E R O G E

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the before and after shots of the walkover at Three Mile Creek at the end of Walter Street, in between last Tuesday afternoon and after extreme rain hit the Rural City on Thursday afternoon.

IT has taken 15 years for the ‘penny to drop’ that the construction of a huge wall to flood protect the Flemington Racecourse has had major recent impacts on downstream residents adjoining the Maribyrnong River in Melbourne.

Unfortunately, we have a ‘Flemington’ scenario in our own backyard.

The diversion channel on the One Mile Creek, at the Hume Freeway south of Wangaratta, was built to save residents along the creek through Wangaratta, of major flooding, such as was experienced in 1993.

It has certainly done that, however as designed, such floods are now diverted to the King and Ovens river floodplains, with the residents of those floodplains left to suffer the consequences.

Similarly, the flood mitigation works (levees) around Wangaratta, have provided vital protection to residents, but again it comes at a cost to others.

Would a price cut to V/Line tickets impact your use of the service?

ARTISTS’ WORK ON SHOW: Wangaratta Artists Society is preparing exhibits for their 51st annual exhibition on Batchelors Green Park (next to KMart) on October 19 to November 2. There will be a raffle of a donated painting of one of the members and the society asks the public to vote for the Popular Painting in the show. Pictured are Thea Day - president with the raffle prize painting, and Marina Foad, Wangaratta Artists Society secretary.

The answer, simplistically is the control of development on floodplains, but realistically ‘isn’t going to happen’.

History will show that floods are like fires, we always wait for the next event.

Graeme Taylor, former CEO, North East Waterways

Online initiative helps support mental health I WRITE on behalf of the not-for-profit Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia.

My simple message is that if your readers are impacted in any way by a mental health issue, they should reach out because there is help available.

We have an important project called Finding North that is very user-friendly and is - in simple terms - an on-line initiative which links people with mental health issues with other people facing similar issues so they can offer support to each other.

The time for action on mental health is unquestionably now.

We know that a massive 54 per cent of all Australians affected by mental illness simply do not access any kind of treatment.

We know that 3.8 million Australians now live with mental illness - it’s enough people to fill a city the size of Hobart 17.5 times.

COVID has led to an escalation in fear and anxiety.

Far too many people at a local level are ending up in hospital emergency rooms ... be-

cause they simply don’t know where to go to.

We’re urging all governments to invest more in services that help people with mental health issues.

We desperately need to make it easier for people to access the very real help that is out there.

We urgently need to address the attitudes and beliefs that can exclude people who have a mental illness from workplaces, communities and social circles.

The reality is people with mental illness can live well in the community and do recover if the right clinical and community support is there.

We urge all readers to have a look at our important latest project.

Just go to www.findingnorthnetwork.com.au.

The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia also has a free phone line to help people - 1800 985 944.

Tony Stevenson, CEO Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words.

Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.

Email

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Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 7

Hopes for annual Grit and Resilience Festival

By SIMONE KERWIN

IT’S hoped the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Festival will become an annual event, following its success last week.

The inaugural afternoon festival was held in the King George Gardens on Monday, October 10 in fine spring conditions - before steady, flooding rain set in later in the week.

“We were very lucky with the weather, and everything ran really well,” Sarah Blatchford, Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program community connector officer, said.

An estimated 200 people of all ages enjoyed the chance to peruse more than 20 stalls set up by local services which support the community to connect and develop resilience.

The free event was organised to mark World Mental Health Day, and was organised by the Grit and Resilience Program, Mind Australia and the Centre Against Violence.

Each stallholder - including Pangerang Community House, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, Big Brothers Big Sisters, NESAY, LINE Wangaratta and RCoW Youth Services - offered an interactive activity during the afternoon, and there was live music, drop-in yoga

LOOK AT THIS: Tyler Dwyer gives Kirsty Hawkins a tour of the paper houses at the Grit and Resilience Festival.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmerman sessions, giant games and a barbecue on offer.

While current funding for the Grit and Resilience Program is due to wind down in June next year, Ms Blatchford said it was hoped the festival could become an annual event on the local calendar.

“World Mental Health Day is

such an important day on the mental health calendar, and all the feedback from the day so far has been really positive,” she said.

“I think most of the community members who attended want it to be an annual event.

“It was a really relaxed event, which was what we wanted to

achieve - a fun community afternoon. Everyone got creative with their activities on the stalls to capture people’s interest, and it worked really well.

“We didn’t actually have a picture of what we imagined it would look like, but I think it still exceeded our imaginations.”

Repeat drink driver banned again A BORALMA man who failed to stop after crashing into a neighbour’s letterbox and was later found over the legal alcohol limit by police had an extensive history of drink driving in the region, a local court has heard.

The 58-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, pleading guilty to a number of driving charges after he failed to stop after diverting around 1.5m from Plums Road, destroying a letterbox and leaving part of his number plate at the scene during the May 29 incident.

Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said police had been notified of the incident shortly after 11am, eventually locating the man at his home address shortly before 1pm, with a subsequent breath test indicating a blood alcohol reading of 0.052.

The court heard the accused’s licence involved a zero blood alcohol limit, although the Boralma man said he had consumed two ‘longnecks’ of beer after returning home and had not been driving drunk.

He was last month banned from driving for a total of 42 months for a separate incident which saw him collide with a vehicle while attempting to merge across the Hume Freeway, before later returning a blood alcohol level of .215.

Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client was coming to terms with his inability to drink, and was supported by an Alcoholics Anonymous counsellor in court.

“My client has discovered he cannot drink again and he’s adjusting to that,” he said.

“One’s too many and 20 aren’t enough for him.”

He said his client had replaced the destroyed letterbox after being informed of the incident.

Magistrate Peter Dunn acknowledged the accused was working to address his drinking, convicting and cancelling the man’s licence for an additional 12 months and ordering a 12 month good behaviour bond with alcohol rehabilitation conditions.

1 X FAMILY PASSES (4 TICKETS) Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre

Wednesday October 26 7:30pm For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

Seven acrobats and 30 metres of rope…By a Thread offers rich visuals of inventive aerial acrobatics and spectacular skills from some of Australia’s best circus artists. With intense training in a breadth of contemporary circus disciplines, the performers have pooled their knowledge and skills, and then exploded the traditional boundaries of these disciplines to create a show where classic techniques are used in expansive ways and new skills are made possible. ¾Ų ķŲ ŃŦƭŲ ƭľĞ ėƙóǎ ƭŲ ǎŃŦɏ ơŃŤƖśǔ Ȋśś ŃŦ Full Name: ɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔ the below details and post or deliver Postal Address: ɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔ ƭŲ ŲƵƙ ŲȆĐĞ ďĞĶŲƙĞ ƭľĞ ĐśŲơŃŦķ ėóƭĞɔ Email Address: ɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔ Wangaratta Chronicle Phone Number: ɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔɔ

By A Thread Competition 37 Rowan Street Wangaratta VIC 3677 Entries Close: 5pm Monday October 24 2022 ÞŃŦŦĞƙơ ėƙóǎŦ óƭ ƙóŦėŲŤɔ tóŦóķĞŤĞŦƭʀơ ėĞĐŃơŃŲŦ Ńơ ȊŦóśɔ vŲ ĐŲƙƙĞơƖŲŦėĞŦĐĞ ǎŃśś ďĞ ĞŦƭĞƙĞė ŃŦƭŲɔ ¦ƙŃǞĞ ŦŲƭ ƙĞėĞĞŤóďśĞ ĶŲƙ Đóơľ Ųƙ óďśĞ ƭŲ ďĞ ƙĞɲơŲśėɔ ¦ľŲƭŲĐŲƖŃĞơ ŦŲƭ óĐĐĞƖƭĞėɔ

FRIENDS OF NESAY FUNDRAISER

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18th November 2022 Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre 6:30pm start With award winning comedian,

author and musician

6DPP\ TICKETS: www.wpacc.com.au/Whats-On/NESAY-Gala-Ball or In Person at WPACC

4 Victoria Parade, Wangaratta VIC 3677 | T: 03 5721 3711 E: admin@wangarattaclub.com | W: Wangarattaclub.com.au

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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IN STORE NOW

XT1 LT 42 E ELECTRIC RIDER EXPLORING THE SKIES: Wangaratta High School students Sam Day and Clare Collins are looking forward to the star-gazing evening with Krystal De Napoli on October 25.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

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FORMER Wangaratta High School student Krystal De Napoli will return to her alma mater this month to lead students, families, staff and the wider community in a star-gazing experience.

Krystal now works with ASTRO-3D, which is the Australian Research Council centre of excellence for all-sky astrophysics in three dimensions.

The centre has a program called STARS (Scientists Taking Astronomy to Regional Schools) which sends astronomers, along with an eight-inch Dobsonian telescope, to hold workshops for year 10 students in regional schools.

The students are given a chance to operate the instrument and take observations, and the telescope is then left with the school for its continued use.

While astronomy is im-

portant in itself, its introduction can also spur interest in other science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects, according to ASTRO-3D’s Dr Delese Brewster, one of the architects of the STARS program.

“Country kids can study STEM subjects at school, but access to professionals and specialist programs is difficult because they are mainly located in larger towns and cities,” Dr Brewster said.

“But kids in rural areas have a huge advantage in astronomy. They see big skies with minimal light pollution. This program aims to inspire children across Australia to look up and explore the universe.”

Krystal, who recently coauthored the book ‘Astronomy - Sky Country’ as part of the First Knowledges series, will draw on her local knowledge and her experience as an astrophysicist to inspire young people and the wider

community during her visit.

Her presentation at Wangaratta High School will be opened up to the community with a star-gazing evening at the Edwards Street campus on Tuesday, October 25.

From 7.30pm, there will be an astronomy presentation in the school’s Flexible Learning Centre building, before the focus moves outside to the oval, to view the night skies with the new telescope.

Three additional telescopes will be provided

by Maree Timms from the Digital Technology Advisory Committee, and Anne Stelling from the Wangaratta Regional Study Centre CSU, for use on the night.

Anyone interested in attending the evening can arrange a free ticket at https:// compasstix.com/e/341b2rtijr Copies of Krystal’s book will be available for purchase, and can be signed by the author, on the night.

0HHWLQJ WKH QHHGV RI RXU JURZLQJ FRPPXQLW\ As our community grows, there has been increased interest and need for our Select Entry and Accelerated learning (SEAL) program.

WHS will be taking further enquiries for a second Year 7 SEAL class in 2023.

To place your enquiry, please contact us today.

03 5723 0500

wangaratta.hs@education.vic.gov.au

www.whs.vic.edu.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Hannah Snowdon, Keeley Sheridan, Yasmine Budic and Mikayla Arnold.

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 9

Brodie Watson, Viveka Pizzini-Smith, Catherine Forge, Ryley Miller and Olivia McConchie.

Maddy Corker, Tiah Simpson-White and Emily Tidd.

Molly Canning, Mabel O’Keeffe, Caitlin Somerville and Beth Cope.

Farewell to school days Jessica Peacock, Kaelah Ivone, Ebony Spence and Phoebe Bromley.

GALEN Catholic College year 12 students marked their final day of classes with a celebratory dress-up day on Monday.

The school held its graduation evening on Tuesday, and students are now preparing for VCE exams, to begin with English on October 26.

Charlotte Burrows, Kate Edmondson, Hope Plecas and Tamsin Collins.

(Back) Georgie McGuffie, Sarah Young, Olivia Grapiglia, Lily Direen, Jessie Naus, (front) Alice Paccagnan, Charley Hall and Georgina Little.

Matilda Paxford, Milly Quin, Zara Rippingale and Lauren Rosetto.

Patrick Wright, David Vescio, Zac Rispin and Harry Doyle.

Brad Simmons and Claudia Whiley.

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NATIONAL

WATER WEEK

Local familyowned drilling company

The experienced and expert team at Adams Drillers will help you find quality water supply your p property pp y on y p y ADAMS Drillers is a family owned and operated drilling company with more than 50 years’ experience over three generations.

They have the largest database of bores drilled in North East Victoria and Southern New South Wales and this knowledge coupled with the largest fleet of water well rigs in the area provides service and experience second to none.

They use this knowledge to increase the likelihood of finding a quality water supply on your property.

For more than 40 years, Adams Drillers have specialised in the drilling and construction of high yielding irrigation water wells, with several producing in excess of 400 litres per second.

This experience and expertise is applied to all aspects of their work, allowing production of efficient wells that are specific to individual client requirements.

Adams Drillers are able to provide geophysical wireline logging services with their in-house equipment assisting in formation evaluation to provide maximum yields possible.

They have rig sizes from small, tight access geotechnical to 2,000 metre

capable oil and gas rig and everything in between.

Their fleet of service trucks, pumps and compressors will assist in getting the job done.

Adams Drillers apply a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly approach to all works and hold an impeccable safety record.

They hold Class 3 licences in Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia and are also licenced to drill in the Great Artesian Basin.

Their services include: • Mineral exploration; • Pump recovery and bore rehabilitation; • Geotechnical drilling; • Geothermal production wells; • Water quality and level monitoring wells; • Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) and injection wells; • Mining and civil dewatering; and • Geothermal exploration drilling.

Don’t leave your water supply issues until the heat of summer, call Adams Drillers today on (03) 5721 9288 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Our Water Stories 17-23 October 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 11

BE PREPARED FOR SUMMER Enquire about water bores now!

Call Adams Drillers for a no obligation free quote today Peter Adams 0428 573 032 Marc Adams 0407 352 011 1 Bickerton Street, Wangaratta 03 5721 9288 enquiries@adamsdrilling.com.au www.adamsdrilling.com.au

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Sponsor sign Appin Park Kindergarten

ALL ABOARD: A new sign which shows Appin Park Kinder’s new sponsors now has pride of place at the kinder.

THE kids enjoyed learning about the businesses who kindly contributed to the kinder’s new sponsorship board.

Special thanks to the Men’s Shed who constructed the frame, Grimshaw Signs for the sign writing, and of course all the sponsors - Grimshaw Signs, Solimo Constructions, Tim Aumann Plumbing, Dysons, Pat Byrne Electrical and Tyrepower.

The kids were excited to see the new sign in place.

Melbourne Stars visit Wangaratta Primary School

GOOD COOKING: Students Amy Kurjan and Jonah Lewis won their way into the Murray River Culinary Challenge.

MELBOURNE Stars Academy players were a hit when they visited the school as part of their T20 World Cup preparation.

Brody Couch, Tom O’Connell and Tom Rogers taught the students some basic ball handling techniques and discussed with them their journeys to the Stars Academy.

Students loved the opportunity to ask the boys questions about their sporting careers as well as getting to mingle with the Stars mascot.

Culinary challenge Galen Catholic College HOSPITALITY students, Amy Kurjan and Jonah Lewis won their way into the Murray River Culinary Challenge, held in Echuca on September 17.

As a team they competed against three other finalist teams from Echuca, Swan Hill and Nathalia.

The competition involved the preparation of a three-course meal of roasted cauliflower and chorizo soup, crispy skin salmon with a pea puree and a dessert of vanilla panna cotta.

Each course was served within a strict timeline, with four consistent plated serves presented to four judges.

Amy and Jonah kept their cool, communicated well and functioned smoothly as a team in the kitchen and their dishes were of a high standard.

After a nervous tallying of the scores, Echuca took out the top prize with the Galen team coming a close second.

What a great achievement and valuable experience for Amy and Jonah.

TEAM MEETING: Students Jane Foster, Kyrah Evans and Millie Hermans enjoyed meeting Stars players Brody Couch and Tom O’Connell.

Spring in their step Appin Park Primary School WITH some warm weather shining all around, the year 3/4 students were pleased to be able to get outside, run around and engage in large group physical activities.

The activities ranged from a variety of tag games, to team games requiring different strategies, to showing off their individual skills using a skipping rope.

With a focus on team work, encouraging and supporting everyone, these students continue to develop a positive attitude to their own efforts as well as those of their peers.

They can acknowledge that not everyone has the same skill set and appreciate the application that we all need to do to produce our best efforts.

It is very rewarding teaching young people with such a positive attitude.

WE WANT YOUR SCHOOL & S KINDERMcPhNersEonW at Email Anita m.au amcpherson@nemedia.co

SKIPPING FUN: Judd Campbell and Jesse Walkerden showing off their teamwork skills, linking their ropes to skip in time.

1

Atoms are made of protons, neutrons and electrons. Which is smallest? a) protons, b) neutrons, or c) electrons?

2

Panthera leo is a large, deadly animal. What is its common name? a) panther, b) leopard, c) tiger, or d) lion.

3

What does a dendrochronologist study? Is it a) tree rings, b) dandelions and other airborne seeds, or c) what tree leaves do at night?

4

True or false?

Mount Erebus is an active volcano in Antarctica.

5

What metal is made from bauxite ore? Is it a) copper, b) nickel, or c) aluminium?

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

QUIZ ANSWERS 1. c). Electrons are smaller than protons or neutrons 2. d). Panthera leo is the scientific name for the lion. 3. a). Dendrochronologists study tree rings to work out exactly when the tree lived and died. 4. True. Mount Erebus, located near New Zealand’s Scott Base, has a lake of lava in its crater, and regularly throws out rocks or ‘bombs’. 5. c). Bauxite is typically used to make aluminium.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 13

WHAT’S ON Caring and Ageing Well Community Festival THE Caring and Ageing Well Community Festival will be held today from 10am to 2pm at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, with access from the King George V Gardens.

Supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, the festival will be a celebration of the community’s seniors and carers with family members, friends and neighbours invited to come and get information about the kinds of services and supports available to help carers and promote healthy ageing.

There will also be information on how to stay active and connected to your community, with more information on contactacc@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au or 03 5722 0888.

Seniors festival country concert JAMES Blundell and his son Brian Blundell will perform a country concert as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre Memorial Hall on Friday, October 21.

Supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, enjoy a free afternoon of music and entertainment from the award winning singer from 2.30pm.

Bookings are essential with tickets available from the box office between 10am-4pm or visit www.wpacc.com.au.

yourstars ARIES

(March 21 to April 19) This is a good time for the usually outspoken Lamb to be a bit more discreet. You still can get your point across, but do it in a way less likely to turn off a potential supporter.

TAURUS

OPERA THEATRE: Cinderella’s sisters Helen Koehne (as Clorinda) and Angelique Tot (as Tisbe) vie for the attention of handsome prince Ramiro in the hilarious new show.

Fun with La Cenerentola as opera comes to Oxley

FOLLOWING its very successful tour of Donizetti’s Don Pasquale in 2022, Lyster Opera returns to the stage in Rossini’s hilarious take on the Cinderella story, La Cenerentola.

Considered by many to have some of opera’s finest writing for solo voice and ensembles, La Cenerentola takes the famous story in a number of different directions, with mistaken identities and reworked characters woven into the narrative before the inevitable happy ending.

Lyster Opera presents this piece in the style of the great

Victoria Welsh Choir tour THE Victoria Welsh Choir will present a celebration of the rich Welsh musical tradition at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Sunday, November 13.

The program will include a selection of traditional Welsh repertoire in beautiful four-part harmony including stirring hymns, age-old ballads, show tunes, arias and Celtic favourites that raise the roof in chapels and concert halls from Bangor to Bairnsdale.

The show starts at 2pm and tickets are available at www. wpacc.com.au.

touring companies that roamed Australia in the gold rush era.

Singers of note would travel from town to town to perform to audiences in local venues, often providing linking narration to break through any language barrier.

Company founder Jamie Moffat said it’s a remarkably resilient format.

“It has great appeal for all audiences, from opera buffs to those new to the art form,” he said.

Lyster Opera is named for William Saurin Lyster, the great nineteenth century entrepre-

Jazz to be celebrated at The Vine GET jazz festival weekend in Wangaratta off to a great start by enjoying a performance by local legends Sweet Buzz at the The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Friday, October 28.

Dinner is available from 6pm to 8pm and tickets include a table reservation with bookings at www.thevinehotel.net. au.

neur, and shares his vision of celebrating the art of opera with new audiences at an affordable price.

In this production, emerging mezzo-soprano Alexandra Mathew takes the title role of Cinderella, with acclaimed tenor Hew Wagner as her handsome prince, Ramiro.

Vying for his attention are Cinderella’s evil step sisters, sung by Helen Koehne and Angelique Tot. A plot by Ramiro’s tutor, Alidoro (Angus Grant) involves the valet Dandini, sung by Michael Lampard, aided by courti-

ers sung by James Macaulay and Luke Belle.

The new staged production is directed by Jamie Moffat, assisted by Luke Belle, and has accompaniment and musical direction by the acclaimed Pamela Christie, with stunning new costumes designed and created

by Maddy Connellan.

La Cenerentola is being performed at venues around the state but will come to the Oxley Shire Hall on November 12 at 2pm and tickets are available now through www.trybooking. com or visit www.lysteropera. com.au for more information.

King Valley art show coming

Mt Bruno family fun day

SEE over 400 artworks by artists from across the country at the King Valley Art show being held at King River Brewing from Saturday, October 29 to Monday, October 31.

The event showcases a wide array of styles with non-acquisitive prizes awarded in categories including best oil/acrylic, pastel, watercolour, printmaking, abstract and many more, from a prize pool totalling $15,900 courtesy of sponsors, patrons and Friends of the Art Show.

It will be open from 10am until 4pm daily and entry is $3 per person (kids free).

EXPERIENCE a traditional day of family fun at the Mt Bruno Picnic being held on Saturday, October 29 from 1pm.

For more than 130 years the family day has attracted families who enjoy activities such as the traditional children’s races - three legged, egg and spoon, sack, and aged running races plus fun events for adults, with everyone receiving a prize.

All are welcome (BYO afternoon tea, water, picnic rugs and chairs) with entry via a donation at the gate, at the picnic area at Mt Bruno in the Warby Ranges.

(April 20 to May 20) Good news: All that hard work you put in is beginning to pay off. But you need to watch that tendency to insist on doing things your way or no way. Be a bit more flexible.

GEMINI

(May 21 to June 20) You might want to delay making a decision on the future of a long-standing relationship until you check out some heretofore hidden details that are just now beginning to emerge.

CANCER

(June 21 to July 22) Your reluctance to compromise on an important issue could backfire without more facts to support your position. Weigh your options carefully before making your next move.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good

time for ambitious Leos or Leonas to shift from planning their next move to actually executing it. Your communication skills help persuade others to join you.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22)

Relationships -- personal or professional -present new challenges. Be careful not to let a sudden surge of stubbornness influence how you choose to deal with them.

LIBRA

(September 23 to October 22) You might need more facts before you can decide on a possible career change. But you should have no problem making a decision about an important personal matter.

SCORPIO

(October 23 to November 21) You’re respected by most people for your direct, no-nonsense approach to the issues. But be careful you don’t replace honest skepticism with stinging sarcasm.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 22 to December 21) A newly emerging situation could require a good deal of attention and some difficult decision-making. However, close friends will help you to see it through.

CAPRICORN

(December 22 to January 19) Family matters need attention.

Check things out carefully. There still might be unresolved tensions that could hinder your efforts to repair damaged relationships.

AQUARIUS

(January 20 to February 18) Of course you deserve to indulge yourself in something special. But for now, tuck that bit of mad money away. You’ll need it to help with a looming cash crunch.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A

temporary setback in your financial situation is eased by changing some of your plans. You’ll be able to ride it out quite well until the tide turns back in your favor.

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

KING VALLEY NEWS

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

Moyhu hall transformation is starting from the top

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

MAJOR works are currently underway at the Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall to ensure the historic building is preserved and available for the use of generations to come.

The committee was successful in its call for the Rural City of Wangaratta to support the much-needed works, estimated to tally in the region of $350,000, with the roof and ceiling in particular showing their age and falling into disrepair.

Scaffolding is up and a new corrugated iron roof is almost finished being installed which will help keep it watertight while interior renovations are undertaken inside.

Hall secretary Neil Jarrott said a new septic tank means the hall is now connected to the waste water scheme while a state government grant for $12,980, achieved by council from the second round of the Community Climate Change and Energy Action (CCCEA) program, will go towards improving the comfort of patrons.

“They are repairing the plaster render on the inside walls of the hall and then it will be painted,” he said.

“The grant will improve the lighting, a new hot water system will be installed and the old electric heaters and an old gas heater will be replaced, with solar panels going on too.

“Then the floor in the main hall with be replaced and the brickwork will be repointed.”

Mr Jarrott said the floor was made of Jarrah - a gold standard in dance floors - and the hall committee insisted council replace it with the same.

He said as it is quite bowed, the WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host lunch at the Wangaratta Club from 12 noon today.

Carpet bowls will run on Thursday and Monday from 12 noon, with cards (euchre) on Friday from 1.30pm, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday, also from 1.30pm - all at the clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

Next Wednesday there will be a light luncheon at the clubrooms from 12.30pm, at a cost of $8.

WANGARATTA Croquet Club, located in Ryan Avenue, is holding a Come and Try Day in conjunction with the Victorian Seniors Festival today.

Arrive any time from 10am. The day is free, with all equipment and tuition provided. Please wear flat shoes with no heels. Phone 0429 166 016 for more information.

BOORHAMAN CWA will host an open garden event on Sunday, October 23 at 1610 Boorhaman Road, Boorhaman from 10am to 3pm.

Entry is $10, morning and afternoon tea included. There will be a trading table with plants, books, preserves and a raffle with numerous prizes.

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

KING VALLEY IN BRIEF

Cheshunt flower show postponed THE annual Cheshunt flower show will now be held at the Cheshunt Hall and Recreation Reserve on Sunday, November 6 from 9am until 3pm.

Enter your own exhibits, with a list of categories available, or come and enjoy the beautiful displays and a delicious afternoon tea.

Entries will be received from 9am until 10.30am (with doors closing at 11am for around an hour for judging) and presentations will be made at 2pm.

Stall sites are also available with all enquiries to Lyn Lewis on 5729 8383.

Moyhu community meal tomorrow THE next Moyhu community meal will be held at the Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall tomorrow from 12pm.

RSVP is required one week prior by contacting Neil on neil.jarrott@ bigpond.com.

Estey organ auction fundraiser

UNDER CONSTRUCTION: The new roof at the Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall is nearly complete, with scaffolding expected to be removed in coming days.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson best solution was to replace the whole floor including the blocks, beams and floorboards.

There will also be a new landing on the back of the hall, with new windows and doors along the back wall where the dressing rooms open onto the landing.

Two trees which were creating problems for the foundations have been removed near the driveway, where gravel works have also been carried out.

Mr Jarrott said the hall has been out of action since mid-September during the roof replacement, as Guest speaker will be Chris Clarke, immediate past president of APS Victoria, on the topic of alpine plants.

Visitors always welcome.

WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held at St Patrick’s supper room in Ford Street on Friday, October 28 from 2pm to 4pm.

The event is held on the fourth Friday of each month. Music will be provided by the Rustic Ramblers, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, and admission $5 including afternoon tea.

For more information, contact Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Ida Zanin on 0428 298 346.

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

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

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

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

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

the scaffolding disrupted public access.

The hall hosts a monthly community lunch for residents, live performances organised by King Valley Arts Presents, a supported toddlers playgroup is starting up weekly on Wednesday mornings and a maternal child health service runs fortnightly clinics at the venue.

Mr Jarrott said while there are things they’d like to get done which won’t be covered under this round of funding, they will continue to plan and make improvements in

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

The competition runs until 3.30pm4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea.

For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.

ELDORADO Carpet Bowls is held every Thursday from 12.45pm at the Eldorado Community Hall.

KEENAGERS Table Tennis plays on Mondays and Thursdays from 8am to 10am at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

Morning tea provided - please bring your own cup. For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.

the future.

“We’ve been working on getting this done for a few years and all of a sudden it’s happening - which is really great,” he said.

“We’ll have better heating and cooling for everyone in the supper room, we’ll get improved heating in the hall when funds allow and we’ll also improve the stage and dressing room facilities over time.

“We’re keen to keep that live show and concert part of our usage going - we really like that - and the stage is well suited to those type of shows.”

New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.

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

New members are welcome to join this enthusiastic and welcoming group of singers.

LIFEBALL is played every Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.

Lifeball is a non-contact game of netball, designed by a doctor and physio for the safety of mature players, with no running, walking backwards or throwing high balls, but enjoying fun and friendship.

For more information, phone 0418 574 404.

GROW, a peer support group for mental wellbeing, meets at Benalla’s Waminda Community House, 19 Ballintine Street, on Mondays from 10.30am.

All welcome, no cost, phone 0448 052 769 for more information.

WANGARATTA AL-Anon Family Group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street.

All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else’s drinking, this group may be for you.

Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828.

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

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

AN antique organ can be purchased by one lucky bidder, as part of a fundraising auction being held by the King Valley Community Memorial Hall in Whitfield.

The Estey reed organ, believed to date from around 1905, was generously donated to the community-owned hall by a local resident and the committee accepting closed bids for the instrument to raise funds towards ongoing maintenance of the hall.

See it from 10am until 3pm on Saturday when the trash and treasure is open and place a sealed bid in person, email to angelahamblin91@gmail.com or post to King Valley Community Memorial Hall, C/- Post Office, Whitfield, VIC 3733, with bids closing on November 26.

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

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

WANGARATTA Toastmasters conducts its meetings on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6.45pm in the community room at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street.

For more information, contact Leah Walker at leahwalka@gmail.com BLOKES Time Out conducts regular gatherings and activities on the third Saturday of the month.

For more information, visit gritandresilience@wangaratta.vic.gov.au CYCLING Without Age Wangaratta offers free tri-shaw rides to the elderly, and to people of any age with disabilities or reduced mobility.

The group provides regular rides around Wangaratta to people living at home, or living in care.

For more information, phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com TOPS weight supporting group meets at The Centre each Monday from 5pm to 6pm, offering encouragement and great company to support locals in managing their weight.

For more information, phone 0458 374 261.

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 15

wangarattachronicle.com.au

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

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Lavish Wellness Centre 69 Green Street, Wangaratta Ph: 0437 725 990 F: Lavish Wellness Centre

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CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free q u o t e p h o n e Tr e v Anderson on 0422 200 761.

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

Phone Julian 0412 597 482.

Wangaratta Chronicle Cadet Journalist Career Opportunity Full time 38 hours per week

North East Media, publisher of the award winning Wangaratta Chronicle, is currently seeking expressions of interest from motivated candidates to join the team in Wangaratta as a cadet journalist.

The cadetship is ideally suited for a Year 12 graduate.

It is for three years, including course study by correspondence from Deakin University.

The successful candidate will learn how to write clear, concise and interesting news, sport and feature stories for our newspaper and associated digital and social media platforms.

We are searching for a budding writer who has the skills, passion and determination to be a journalist of the future.

Candidates must have excellent verbal and written English, sound computer skills, solid general knowledge, a genuine interest in the local community, and an ability to build rapport and networks quickly.

You will need to be well organised, able to work to deadlines, and have strong attention to detail.

Candidates must hold a valid driver’s licence, be available to work flexible hours, and photography and social media skills are desirable.

North East Media is a leading independent family-owned media group with a commitment to community journalism.

Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be emailed to Group Editor Jeff Zeuschner at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

Casual Laboratory Technician Join our Laboratory Team based in Milawa.

Great Place to Work Certified Supportive Team Culture

CHECK OUT OUR

NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities.

Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer

Finding the right job for you matters to us

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, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do as a business. At BFWG we are passionate about both our quality wines and our amazing people, and we remain committed to the core family values of our company - which are Wellbeing, Respect, Innovation and Pride in What We Achieve Together.

We are proud that our business has recently been certified as "A Great Place to Work" and remain committed to honouring this recognition throughout all aspects of the business.

About the Role: Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, this casual role is responsible for grape juice, wine, and wine products, chemical and microbiological analysis, compiling and issuing reliable analytical results, records, and reports, ensuring compliance with internal and external laboratory operating procedures, policies and standards.

About the person: Prior experience in a laboratory environment or a science background would be highly desirable. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their analytical ability, have excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail and be able to carry out accurate and consistent analyses. This role requires some shift work, weekends, and overtime (predominantly during the vintage period). The successful applicant must hold a current Australian driver’s licence.

What’s on Offer: :RUN ZLWKLQ RQH RI $XVWUDOLD V OHDGLQJ ZLQH FRPSDQLHV %H SDUW RI D SDVVLRQDWH DQG GHGLFDWHG WHDP *HQHURXV HPSOR\HH EHQHILWV LQFOXGLQJ GLVFRXQWV RQ DOO products For further information or a position description please contact us at careers@brownfwg.com.au Interested? Apply now by scanning the QR code.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Wangaratta Taxis DRIVERS WANTED If you like driving, why not give driving a taxi a go!

All you need is a full drivers licence, unrestricted, be over 25 years of age, get a police check and a medical.

We as a company will pay for you to get your Taxi Drivers Licence, help with lodging forms and supply a uniform for you to get started.

The position is open to driving a taxi car and or a maxi taxi.

Shift work is a requirement and applicants would need to be flexible with their availability as Wangaratta Taxis is a 24/7 operating service.

If you want to have a go, send your resume to Wangaratta Taxis email: sixat12@bigpond.com or for enquiries phone 0407 216 025.

Shelley’s Country Bakehouse is looking for a hardworking and enthusiastic person to join our team. The position is Apprentice Baker Pastrycook, no experience required but must be willing to learn.

Position is full time Monday to Friday.

Please drop resume in at Shelley’s country bakehouse at 67a Reid Street, Wangaratta 3677 or email to info@tobake.com.au

The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions:

Prep – Year 10 Italian DcZ [jaa i^bZ! ÒmZY iZgb! ' nZVg! edh^i^dc DcZ %#+! ÒmZY iZgb! ' nZVg! edh^i^dc Commencement Date: 27th January, 2023 End Date: 27th January, 2025 Enquiries regarding the positions can be directed to Principal, Mr Zlatko Pear by calling the College on 03 5752 1174.

Applications close 4pm Thursday 3rd November, 2022 BngiaZ[dgY E"&' 8daaZ\Z KVajZh/ %H 5HVSRQVLEOH %H 5HVSHFWIXO %H D 5HVSRQVLEOH &RPPXQLW\ 0HPEHU %H 6DIH

Classifieds Work!

Phone:

(03)

5723 0101

Reliability Technician (Maintenance Fitter)

About Us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and trusted wine companies. With premium vineyards in Victoria and Tasmania, our family of wines has now grown to five brands - Brown Brothers, Devil’s Corner, Pirie, Tamar Ridge and Innocent Bystander. We are passionate about our wines and our core values of Wellbeing, Respect, Innovation and Pride in What We Achieve Together. 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: Reporting to the Reliability Coordinator you will be tasked with troubleshooting and completing a range of preventative and reactive maintenance tasks and implementing improvements and upgrades as and when required across a broad range of production plant, equipment, and infrastructure.

About you: : Ideally, the successful candidate will be highly motivated and have a background in engineering, maintenance, and mechanical technologies. You will have qualifications and substantial experience in a mechanical / engineering / infrastructure trade preferably in a food and beverage or similar manufacturing industry, the ability to maintain a safe, efficient, and tidy working environment as well as being able to research, develop, and implement innovative solutions and continuous improvements.

You will also have: Strong attention to detail.

Administrative and organisational skills including computer literacy across all platforms, and experience with computer-based operations and maintenance systems.

Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team, use initiative and work without direct supervision and to communicate professionally and effectively at all levels.

Ability to build strong cross-functional relationships across the business.

Driver’s Licence.

Forklift License (desirable but not essential).

What’s on Offer: Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies Career development Be part of a passionate and dedicated team Generous employee benefits including discounts on all products.

Apply Now!!

More Information: Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au.

5 Goslings for sale, hatched September 8, 2022, $40 each or $35 each for the lot. Call John 0438 050 475.

2010 Mazda 3 hatchback Great first car, automatic, rego (XYM361), RWC available, full service history, 269,500km, .

$7800 ono Ph 0409 420 291

2005 Mercedes Benz ML500, auto, very good condition, always garaged, one lady owner since near new, serviced as required, air suspension, reg to Feb 2023 (UFD635), 238,300km, $20,500.

Ph 0408 957 918.

2010 Nissan Pathfinder ST, good condition, 12 months reg (XXD316), RW C , 3 1 4 , 0 1 7 k m , $10,000. Ph 0417 543 240.

Page 16- THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

WANTING TO BUY OLD CARS. Juke boxes, records and vintage stereo equipment, pinball machines and old signs. Ph 0405 224 466.

Classifieds Work!

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(03)

5723 0101

CARS wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

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Sport

OPEN GARDEN FOR CAREVAN LES and Rosemary Bolitho will open their magnificent Sable Park garden to the public this weekend for the first time in two years; all to raise money for Carevan Wangaratta.

Les is pictured next one of the many features of the garden, the Willows Pond, which was once a farm dam used for reticulation and drainage. See the full story on page 12.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

1997 Jayco Starcraft, 17ft 6inch, pop top, dual axel, 5 months rego, new awning canvas, new pop top skirt, microwave, air/heating, cooktop oven, single beds, near new tyres, led lights, full annex, $15,000 ono. Ph 0422 576 232, Wangaratta.

EXTENDED POUR FORECAST downpours of more than 100mm over the coming days could see flooding once again spread throughout the North East, as consistent dry weather continues to elude Wangaratta.

Daily outlooks issued by the Bureau of Meteorology anticipate up to 25mm of rain could fall on the rural city today, with as much as 70mm of torrential rain forecast tomorrow.

SES Hume region duty

Flooding expected amid torrential three-day forecast

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

officer Charlie Sexton said crews had been prepared for flooding for weeks.

“Given that all major rivers throughout the region have been under a flood watch or warning over the last several weeks, our VICSES personnel

AFTER 23 YEARS

Personal Notices

have been in a state of readiness and monitoring for some time,” he said.

“For the forthcoming weather event, we have reviewed our command and control arrangements on advice from our regional control team, who continuously monitor conditions, as well as briefing all of our volunteer units with the latest weather intelligence.

“As the weather system moves through the region, it will become clearer where impacts will be felt accordingly, our volunteers from less-affected parts will be mobilized to support their colleagues as they manage those impacts.”

He said those who live, work or visit areas on lowlying land, close to creeks or rivers or near major stormwater drains who take

action could reduce the impacts of flooding by up to 80 per cent.

Between four and 10mm of rain is expected to fall on Friday, with the region’s minimum projected rainfall for the three day period just shy of 70mm.

Local SES crews were yesterday deliberating whether a sandbag collection point would be established for the region, following

a slew of inquiries lodged to the state office amid statewide flooding concerns.

Sandbag collection points are only established by SES crews in areas of significant flooding, with households under-threat recommended to use 25 sandbags to stagger walls near doorways and to cover drainage holes within the home.

Sandbags can be purchased from local hardware stores.

■ Continued page 3

RETIREMENT SALE TOTAL CLEARANCE ALL STOCK STOREWIDE Monday - Friday: 9AM - 5.30PM Saturday: 9AM - NOON Sunday: CLOSED

LIDGERWOOD’S FURNITURE &

5721 6565 40-46 Norton St, Wangaratta (Opposite the Railway Station)

may be placed before 2.30pm the business day prior to publication classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Phone: 03 5723 0101

HALLINAN, Jean.

The Committee of Management, 0DQDJHPHQW 6WD൵ and Residents of St Catherine’s extend our deepest sympathy to Kevin, Pat, Terry, Cheryl, Bernadette, James, Denis, Marg and family on Jean’s passing.

Local News.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021

Charge up your engines

Glenn & Emma Bouchier

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition.

New members are always welcome.

For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305. f INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Country stacks up in VCE

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large part of how they perform in VCE, but there are many other factors that contribute their desired outcome such as getting into a university course of their choice.

Despite students dealing with adversity from the pandemic in 2020 and the touted country-city education divide, they performed reasonably well judging by the VCE study scores released by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCCA).

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

Wangaratta students compare admirably

ting a slightly better percentage of 40+ scores at 3.6pc compared to Cathedral’s 3.3pc. skelly@ nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta High School had a lesser meWangaratta’s three sec- dian study score at 26, it was ondary schools stack up well better than Galen and Cathewhen compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of across the region and even 3.9. several metropolitan counAcross the region Goulterparts across the state. burn Valley Grammar School Galen Catholic College in Shepparton had a median and Cathedral College both 35 with 21.6pc achieving achieved a median study 40+, placing it 30th best in score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria.

BY STEVE KELLY

Beechworth Secondary College had a median study score of 29, but it was its 40+ score that was a standout with 13.7pc reaching the A grade figure.

Benalla P-12 College had a median study score of 26, with zero over 40+, while FCJ College Benalla had a strong median of 30 with 6pc of scores 40+.

Euroa Secondary College’s dux achieved one of the highest scores in the region with a 98.55 ATAR.

2021 - Page 5

after a year like no other

Mansfield Secondary College had a median of 29 with 1.3pc of scores 40+.

Myrtleford P-12 College had a median of 28 with 3.9pc of scores 40+, while Marian College had a median of 28 with zero scores 40+.

Mount Beauty Secondary College had a median of 28, with 2.7pc of scores 40+.

Wodonga Senior Secondary College had a median score of 23, with 1.1pc of scores 40+, while Catholic

College Wodonga had a median of 29, with 3.2pc 40+.

Yarrawonga College P-12 was a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores 40+.

The top three schools in Victoria were Bialik College in Hawthorn that had a median of 38 with 39.9pc of scores 40+, Mount Scopus Memorial College was next with 38 and 39.7pc, with Ballarat Clarendon College third with 38 and 38.4pc.

For the full results visit vcaa.vic.adu.au.

Wang Repair Café returns

Honouring Life’s journey 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta www.masonpark.com.au

5721 5060 ALL HOURS

c REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.

c HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm.

The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation.

Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

c FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.

A

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra.

“I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said.

“It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve.

“But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.”

Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.

“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said.

“Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

their university offers yesterday.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

offers

“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now.

“Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm.

A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor.

For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

LL

CA W

O

N

Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need.

Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

Teens look to the future with uni

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday.

The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities.

Kayla, 17, has been offered a

Live at home for longer

For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au

Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer.

Gardening and home cleaning Transport for medical appointments

Home nursing services Personal care

Caring local staff

Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne

1800 242 696 or visit care.lchs.com.au

Latrobe Service

John & Christine Haddrick Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

All Hours

northeastfunerals.com.au

Remember your loved one in a lasting way The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service - Northeast Health Wangaratta. Your memorial donation can assist in securing the continued availability of comprehensive health care locally.

The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. For further information or to make a donation please contact: Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Subscribe now at

wangarattachronicle.com.au/subscriptions

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 17

SPORT

Record registrations for Harrietville Half

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE HARRIETVILLE’S Half Marathon made a successful come back last weekend with 210 registrations, after two years of cancellations due to COVID. The sixth event of its kind saw perfect running weather conditions on Sunday, October 2 with a cloudy, cool but dry morning.

Previous events were run along the Great Alpine Road, but this year the team used the new Great Valley Trail entirely for all four events; the Bright Community Bank at 21.1km, the Dickens Real Estate at 10km, the Mountain View Retreat at 5km and the Alpine Valley Getaways at 2km.

Harrietville Half race director Robyn Downey said everyone loved the new course.

“We had record numbers this year, especially in the 21.1km and 2km events,” she said.

“From the 210 registrations we saw 189 finishers; 48 of 54 finished the 2km, 37 of the 41 finished the 5km, 33 of 36 finished the 10km and 71 of 79 completed the 21.1km.

“Inviting teams to compete in the 5km event saw three teams form.

“Two vision impaired women; Claudia Stevenson and Peggy Soo, competed in the 21.1km event along with their leaders, Susie Price and Hayley Daniel.

“They loved the run saying they could hear the river, birds and descriptions of the stunning scenery.

“They came from a vision impaired running group in Melbourne and said they will return with the rest of their group next year.”

Local husband and wife, Mark and Gemma De Campo, “scooped the pool” for awards in the 21.1km event.

WINNERS: Alpine Valley 21.1km winners Mark and Gemma De Campo and their children with major sponsor, Mark Ditcham of Bright Community Bank.

 LET’S GO: Vision impaired runners Claudia Stevenson and Peggy Soo with leader Susie Price at the 21.1km startline.  MADE IT: Maddy Amery excited to finish her 21.1km run.

“Gemma won her age group in 1:35:30.1 as overall first female and the Alpine Valley female winner,” Robyn said.

“Mark won his age group in 1:27:16.5 as the Alpine Valley Male winner.

“Brodie Leticq from Maffra was the overall 21.1km male winner in a time of 1:23:00.7; the new course record.”

The 10km male winner was Tony Van in 36:50.7 and the female winner was Kim Rossato in 54:07.3.

The 5km male winner was Adrian Harbison in 18:12.0 and the female winner was Anna Novak in 25:03.2.

The 2km male winner was Ferdinando Perri in 8:39.0 and the female winner was Carmela Perri in 9:06.4.

“The organisers, Team Harriet“Th i i ville Half, is a very small volunteer group and wish to thank our very generous sponsors and our willing and able local volunteers without whom this event would not happen,” Robyn said.

“All funds raised at this event go to the Harrietville Primary School toward ‘Excellence in Regional Education’”.

Softball try-outs a homerun

WANGARATTA Rangers Baseball Softball Club are celebrating another successful try-out session held on Saturday for girls and women aged eight and over interested in playing softball.

Despite the soggy conditions, it was a good turnout to the Targoora Park complex, with players getting more of a feel for the sport.

Organiser Lauren Dinsdale said the turnout was great given conditions.

“It turned out to be a beautiful day on Saturday, no rain in sight,” she said.

“Numbers were down a bit from last week, but that was to be expected with the weather the way it was and the floods.

“Hopefully we’ll get some more again next week for a sausage sizzle after the game.”

There are two more tryout sessions, held on the next two Saturdays from 3-5pm at the Targoora Park complex.

All equipment including bats, mitts and protective gear will be supplied at the try-outs, all participants have to do is bring runners and comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and a water bottle.

There will be experienced players and coaches on hand to teach the various skills of the game, and the club kiosk will be open for refreshments.

The club hopes to have enough players to hold a small round-robin event after the try-outs before Christmas.

The satisfaction of the long distance runner FOR Bright’s Paras Caloutas, she was as surprised as anyone when she first discovered she could run.

The mother of three was with her husband Peter on holiday on the Gold Coast nine years ago when she spotted some people running along the boulevarde.

“It looked fun so I thought I might try it,” Paris said.

“I was only wearing my Converse sneakers but joined them and enjoyed it.

“Before I knew it we had run from Broadbeach to Sea World and back, around 20kms.”

“I realised, ‘Oh my God, I can do this!”

That started a passion and commitment to running that has seen Paras pick up a swag of medals and trophies over a range of middle and long distance events mainly 10kms up to half marathons.

“A friend of mine convinced me to enter a half marathon at Bright and I won,” Paras said.

With the support of her family Paras continued to run and was more than comfortable with her achieve-

 THE FACE OF TRIUMPH: Paras Caloutas shows her unrestrained joy at completing the Melbourne Marathon in early October.

PHOTO: Marathon Photos Live  PROUD FAMILY: Paras is congratulated by husband Peter and sons James and John.

Daughter Angel lives on the Gold Coast. ments, unwilling to take the next step up - the full marathon of 42km. “ A full marathon was something I was always scared of,” she said.

Her first attempt didn’t work out too well but the determined athlete was keen to try it again, mainly to achieve her latest goal.

“I entered the Melbourne Marathon because it’s been a long life dream of mine to run the New York Marathon,” Paras said.

“In order to qualify for

the race you must dig deep and train like you have never trained before to get the qualifying time to even be considered.”

Her training was 18 weeks in total.

“Training is crucial, it gets you to the place where you can handle the internal dialogue, the demons that come and go as your pushing yourself to the limits while training” Paras said.

“Training doesn’t guarantee you’ll always succeed with your expectations,

however, it’s important to find positivity in the darkness and remember it will be worth it in the end.”

Her qualifying time for the NYC Marathon was a 3:38 which she beat by a ‘comfortable’ 10 minutes.

“The joy was overwhelming,” Paras said, but there was one thought that still irritated her, like having a stone in a sandshoe.

“I want to see more women take up the challenge,” she said.

“Out of 6202 people who

ran in this race on October 2 only 1438 of them were women.

“It’s important for me to get this out so that more women have the confidence and believe in themselves that they too have the power to finish this amazing, inspirational, life-changing race we call the marathon.”

Her advice to other women is based on her own experiences, going from one who thought ‘I can’t do that’ to one who thinks ‘there is nothing I can’t do.’

“Believe in yourself, the rest is just practice - if you want to be fast and aim for a PB like I did, you can,” Paras said.

“If you want to be a superstar and just finish the race strong then do exactly that.

“Always try to keep positive thoughts and every time a negative one creeps in, replace it with a positive one.

“Think about the training you’ve done, the fact you are in the most amazing event, and the finish.

“A marathon, in a nut shell, is a life changing experience...I will quote Dr George Sheehan, cardiologist and former medical editor for Runner’s World magazine, ‘of all the races out there, there is no better stage for heroism than a marathon’.”

So if you see Paras out and about running, why not slip on the Converse and join her, you never know where you may end up.

“I’m thinking about the Wangaratta Marathon next, it would be good to have some more female company join me,” Paras said.

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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SPORT

CBL, domestic basketball called off

By NATHAN DE VRIES RECENT rainfall and flooding across the region have caused trouble for Wangaratta’s basketballers, with both the weekend’s Country Basketball League and the local domestic competition called off.

Basketball Victoria, the managing body behind the CBL, announced on Friday the weekend’s matches in the North East and North West conferences, which cover a combined area from

Mildura to Myrtleford and down to the Macedon Ranges and Wallan, would be postponed due to flooding across the state.

Wangaratta Warriors were set for a massive weekend of matches, with the men squaring up for a doubleheader against Wallan and Benalla, while the women would’ve faced off against Wallan.

There is no word about when the matches will be made up, or how the postponement and any future

interruptions will affect the fixture.

Wangaratta Basketball Inc. (WBI) president and men’s CBL coach Adam Maher said it was disappointing, but the right call had been made.

“Obviously the accessibility around the place and the concern for safety with people driving all around (was an issue), but Wangaratta Basketball’s concern first and foremost was the safety of our athletes and our WBI family to make sure they

weren’t going out,” he said.

“As much as we all love basketball, it certainly wasn’t worth going out and putting lives at risk for a game.

“Basketball Victoria will just assess come Wednesday and see how things are faring and go from there.

“It’s disappointing, definitely disappointing, but as I said I think Basketball Victoria as well as Wangaratta Basketball must put the safety of our families at the forefront of our mind.”

Maher also confirmed

Wangaratta’s domestic basketball competitions could not proceed this week.

“We’ve got a vast array of people who come not only from Wangaratta to play basketball in Wangaratta, from Yarrawonga, Myrtleford and all those sorts of places,” he said.

“We made the call on Sunday, the board met and made the call that we’d cancel domestic this week, again to put the safety of our members at the forefront of it and push the round out one more week.

“We’re still assessing whether we skip Warriors training back this week - I know there’s more rain coming on Wednesday, but we’ll just be guided by some people we’re talking to and how all that’s going and try and make it with as much time as possible to check with our members.”

The call from Basketball Victoria will be made later in the week as to the fate of this weekend’s matches, which are scheduled byes for the Warriors men and women.

 Joe Richards

Richards returns from Victoria state combine

LOADING UP: Scotland and Namibia at the warm up tournament at HP Barr Reserve just two weeks ago.

Scotland and Namibia stun former champions at World Cup

By WILLSON MACK

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN WANGARATTA’S newly beloved cricketing nations Scotland and Namibia have made an emphatic start to their T20 World Cup campaigns.

Both countries stunned the world in their opening matches of the tournament, going in as heavy underdogs against the West Indies and Sri Lanka respectively and coming out as comprehensive victors.

Namibia set Sri Lanka 166 to win in their first match in Geelong and they never looked likely, bowled out for 108 in the 19th over.

Paceman Ben Shikongo created carnage with the ball with a double wicket maiden, while Jan Frylinck was named player of the game with the all-around performance of scoring 44 runs with the bat and taking 2/26 with the ball.

Scotland also did the damage batting first in Hobart and set the West Indies a respectable 161 to win, thanks to George Munsey, who batted through the innings to finish 66 not out.

The West Indies looked in control through six overs at 2/56, but a middle order collapse set the game up for Scotland who cruised to a 42 run win over the former two-time champions of the tournament.

Namibia are now favourites to win their next two group stage matches against the UAE and the Netherlands over the coming days to make the Super 12, while Scotland will need to beat either Ireland or Zimbabwe to advance to their first ever Super 12 appearance in their history.

PLAY ON: Magpies skipper Jack Davies said the move to a hard wicket for this week’s matches shouldn’t affect the quality of play.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

A grade, A reserve cricket matches to be played on hard wickets ■

From back page “I’ve spoken to a few players from a long time ago, and it happened in the past so it’s not something terribly new to the WDCA, but it’s something we’ll have to take in our stride and just get a game in.

“Being on a hard wicket, we just need to worry about the ground conditions.

“Depending on how much rain we get late in the week, like on Friday, so if that’s the case we’ll be looking unlikely.

“Most of the clubs around train on hard wickets anyway, so I definitely think it’ll still be a high standard of cricket.”

The fixture change may prove to be futile, given current ground conditions and the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting between 19mm and 55mm of rain to fall around Wangaratta before the end of Saturday.

“The odds of up playing this Saturday are pretty slim, just looking at the forecast, but we won’t make that

call until Friday morning,” Kelly said.

“There’s rain due late Wednesday night and rain forecast Thursday, Friday, Saturday, right through to Tuesday at this stage.

“We’ve got to plan that we’re playing - I know it’s hard for the guys who make turf wickets, it puts them in a tight spot. If it’s really wet on Thursday we might try and make a decision.

“You’re never going to please everyone - cricket’s not a wet weather sport, unfortunately.”

WANGARATTA’S Joe Richards has returned from the AFL Victorian state combine and couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity.

Although the draft is still six weeks away, Richards could well be a bolter for this year’s national and rookie drafts.

“It was a really good experience,” Richards said.

“I didn’t know what to expect but it was so professional and well run as you’d probably expect.

“It was pretty cool hanging out with guys that should be drafted at the end of the year.”

The AFL released top three performers in all tests including 2km time-trial, 20m sprint and agility tests with the explosive midfielder finishing third in both the standing vertical jump (72cm) and running vertical jump (87cm).

“It’s hard to tell how I went because I haven’t seen any results and you couldn’t really hear them say your times and things on the day,” he said.

“I think I went alright without excelling.”

The national draft will be held on November 28 and 29, while the rookie draft will go ahead on the 30th.

Richards is hopeful he’ll find his way onto a list.

“I’m definitely hoping to get picked up,” he said.

“It’s pretty hard to tell how clubs are feeling because it’s still a fair way out but hopefully I might find my way onto a list.

“If I don’t get picked up I’m not sure what I’ll do with my footy next year, I’ll either stay at Wangaratta or might play in Melbourne.”

Richards was supposed to play for Northern Blues in the VFL before the Carlton ended its affiliation around uncertainty due to COVID-19.

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - Page 19

SPORT

Local pickleball couple shine at national titles TOP HONOUR: New black belt Joel Sebire (left) with Dai Sempai Tim Jones.

Hard-working teen earns black belt AFTER a COVID interrupted couple of years Wangaratta Street Defence has produced another black belt.

Joel Sebire (15) was recently promoted in BJMA Zen Do Kai at the Wangaratta dojo.

In an intense and fast moving grading, Sebire was tested on basic techniques, self defence applications, sparring and form (kata).

“Joel has been with me for six years,” club owner Tim Jones said.

“He has trained consistently and is always improving.

“At one stage we had our Christmas break and he came back two foot taller and 20 kilos heavier.”

WSD also provides self-defence classes for schools, businesses and sporting/social groups.

“Our number one priority is confidence building - no one is ever uncomfortable in any of our classes,” Jones said.

Zen Do Kai training is at the FMV Hall on Appin Street Mondays at 6pm.

Dai Sempai Tim can be contacted on 0417 114 124.

GOLDEN DUO: Wangaratta Pickleball Club members Carol and Russell O’Brien (centre) took out a slew of medals at the Pickleball National Titles in Brisbane, including gold in the 65 years and above Mixed Doubles.

FOCUS: Carol O’Brien in action at the Pickleball National Titles in Brisbane.

VALE: Wangaratta Clay Target Club legend Ernie Williams passed away at the far too young age of 101 years.

WANGARATTA Pickleball Club members recently had great success at the Australian National Titles where club members, Carol and Russell O’Brien, won medals at tournament held in early October at the Brisbane Tennis Centre.

The pair combined to win gold in the 65 years and above Mixed Doubles, as well as Carol partnered with Julie Campbell from Mooloolaba to win gold in the 60 years and above Women’s Doubles, while Russell partnered with Ian Tredinnick from Noosa for a bronze in the 70 years and above Men’s Doubles.

This followed successes in the Queensland State Titles in July 2022 when Carol and Julie won gold and Russel and Ian a bronze.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in Australia and Wangaratta Pickleball Club currently has 55 members and growing.

For more information on local pickleball go to wangaratta-pickelball.com. au or email wangarattapickleball@ gmail.com.

CLUB LEGEND: Ernie Williams in action shooting Universal Skeet.

Clay target club legend will be sadly missed

HERE’S ONE FOR THE POOL ROOM: MICK Walker raised more than $7500 from local businesses in sponsorship for the Wangaratta and District Pool Association and also helped organise the raffle which raised another $5500. So it was hardly surprising he was awarded one of the association’s best Team Player awards. He was surprised, however, when he was presented with a specially made sign recognising his efforts and his love for the Collingwood Football Club. The sign was made by Adam Schultz and you can bet on where it was destined for straightaway.

THE Wangaratta Clay Target Club was recently saddened by the passing of Ernie Williams, a universally respected and muchloved member of the club.

Ernie was an inspirational figure at the club and his unceasing efforts and his wisdom made it and the world a better place.

Ernie grew up in Wangaratta and joined the National Bank after finishing high school.

The war interrupted that career path and Ernie served briefly in the army.

He soon discovered that soldiers spent far too much time marching, so he transferred to the RAAF, eventually qualifying as a flight instructor.

He taught basic flying in Tiger Moths, but was certainly versatile and could fly many different types.

He could crash them too, managing to walk away from wheels up forced landings in a Beaufighter and a Wirraway.

After the war, Ernie went into the poultry farming business with

Vale Ernie Williams, 24 July 1921 - 15 September 2022 his father, but also pursued his love of outdoor activities.

He and his wife Jean were involved in building the Wangaratta Ski Lodge on Mount Feathertop, sometimes trekking to the site on horseback.

His favourite outdoor activity was hunting though, and he was particularly keen on the ducks.

Ernie was kept busy enough with the poultry farm and raising daughters Jan and Dianne, but he’d long fostered a dream of running his own gun shop.

In the early 1970s, he and Jean started running a licensed guns and ammo business from the corrugated iron chook sheds on the farm at North Wangaratta.

The business thrived and Ernie and Jean soon expanded into the famous purpose-built log cabin shop beside the family home.

The business is long gone, but the log cabin still stands, complete with the ‘Guns & Ammo’ sign, hand carved by daughter Di-

anne and son-in-law Mike.

Ernie came to competitive shooting relatively late in life, joining what was then the Wangaratta Gun Club in the 1970s.

He certainly made up for that late start though, and was soon winning major events, taking out the prestigious 1971 Budgewah Night Handicap at Hay. Ernie was among the 23 shooters scoring 15/15 and going into the shoot-off.

The opposition dropped away one by one, but Ernie held his nerve and finally took the win with an impressive 102/102.

He pocketed the princely sum of $250 and also scored a “special sash” presented by Mr J. Houston, the owner of Budgewah Station and sponsor of the event.

From those early days, Ernie dedicated his time and energy to the club for the rest of his life.

He was the club handicapper, a committee member, tireless volunteer and life member.

His sharp eye and even sharper mind were in action until the very end of his extraordinary life, guiding the club and its members and issuing orders, cleverly disguised as advice.

It was only a couple of years back that, for his own birthday, Ernie bought himself a lovely old Beretta SO3 and that gun soon became his pride and joy.

He was fond of bringing the SO3 out to the club so he could have a shot with the young blokes - anyone under about 80, that is to say.

Ernie was fiercely independent, still living in the family home beside the old log cabin and making his own way to the gun club twice a week to run the practice book right up until a week before he passed away at the far too young age of 101 years.

Ernie’s funeral service took place in Wangaratta on the 28th of September, after which his cortege drove through the grounds of the Wangaratta Clay Target Club.

One last visit for Ernie and the end of an era for the club.

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, October 19, 2022

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Basketball flooded out Page 18

OUR INTERNATIONAL STARS THE training and warm up matches the Namibian and Scottish international cricket sides played in Wangaratta recently are paying off in spades, with both nations pulling off massive wins in their ICC T20 World Cup matches.

Namibia secured a historic win over Sri Lanka, while Richard Berrington (pictured in action at the Barr Reserve) and his Scots downed two-time champions West Indies.

All of Wangaratta is sure to be cheering on our adopted sides as they push forward in their World Cup campaigns.

Story: Page 18

Fixture change A grade, A reserve cricket matches to be played on hard wickets

THE wet weather chaos impacting the start of the domestic cricket season continues, with the association electing to move some senior matches onto hard, synthetic wickets for this weekend’s round of play.

With the recent rainfall limiting the amount of turf wickets ready to be played on, the association had little choice but to move some A grade and A reserve games

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

onto available grounds.

In the A grade, Wangaratta Magpies will now play Beechworth Wanderers at Wareena Park and Ovens Valley United will play Benalla Bushrangers at North

Wangaratta, while the A reserve Rovers United Bruck play Yarrawonga-Mulwala at South Wangaratta and Benalla Bushrangers host Ovens Valley at the Arundel Street Oval in Benalla.

WDCA president Justin Kelly said the association didn’t have any other options outside of cancelling the round entirely.

“There are not too many turf wicket grounds

available - Barr 1 and Barr 2, and Yarrawonga (Stan Hargreaves Oval), I think that’s it,” he said.

“It’s not ideal because the showgrounds and the Rovers ground were a bit late to get top-dressed because the O&M went a week later than they normally would, and both Wangaratta sides had teams in the final - they trained right up until O&M grand final eve, so the council couldn’t get onto

them to top dress them and renovate them.

“Beechworth and Myrtleford are in a similar position, their outfield’s got really chopped up as well.

“Yarrawonga’s right, Whorouly’s similar to Myrtleford and Beechworth.

“Benalla was right, they actually played a veterans’ game the first weekend of October so theirs was right up until last Friday and

Let us work twice as hard for you Travis | 0477 138 372

Karen | 0400 500 681

Saturday when they had a metre of water through there.”

Wangaratta Magpies A grade skipper Jack Davies said the prospect of playing on a hard wicket wasn’t unheard of.

“Obviously we’d love to be playing on turf, but at the moment, given the circumstances, that’s all we can really do,” he said.

■ Continued page 18