IT is no spring chicken, but Wangaratta Fire Brigade’s 1938 Dodge pumper was certainly up for a road trip in the King Valley on Saturday.
The pumper, driven by CFA members Paul Clark and Rob Skase, was among more than 70 vehicles participating in the Veteran, Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club of Wangaratta’s annual spring rally.
■ Story page 2
MERRIWA Park will reopen on Friday afternoon following several months of closure due to tree safety concerns by council.
One of the most loved parks in Wangaratta was closed on July 9 following an arborist’s report that deemed 10 red gum trees were high to extreme risk and users of the park such as lawn tennis club
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
players have been unable to enjoy the space since.
Council confirmed a planning permit to remove three trees at the park has been submitted and this
process will take about four weeks to see an outcome.
It reported that the remaining trees initially marked for removal can be saved with pruning and crown reductions and these works are planned for early next week.
Council was awaiting receipt of its ecological report so it could take this next step in processing the application
for the trees’ removal.
Rural City of Wangaratta director - community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan thanked the public for their patience in the process while council has been making the park safe for all users.
“The report identifies remnant trees at the site proposed for removal or reduction,” Mr Goonan said.
“It completes a Flora and Fauna Assessment on those and a Net Loss Report for any losses presented.”
Mr Goonan would not comment on which three trees were marked for removal until such a time as the planning application has been approved.
“Once we have the outcome, we will
communicate with the community again regarding the tree locations and works,” he said.
Several large red gum trees have fallen in the park over the last 12 months causing concern for some people, while others have been against the potential removal of more trees.
■ Continued page 3
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BLUE skies and warm weather greeted some 74 motor enthusiasts who journeyed to Wangaratta at the weekend, as the town’s veteran, vintage and classic car club hosted its 52nd annual spring rally.
Vehicles dating back to the 1920s began gathering at the Vine Hotel from Friday, ahead of a picturesque rally through the King Valley to Lake William Hovell on Saturday morning.
Veteran, Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club of Wangaratta president Martin Ziermann said an impressive collection of vehicles had attended the rally from all across Victoria and New South Wales, with Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Buick and Rover among the vintage brands represented.
“We had a really terrific turnout of invited guests and club
BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au
members – there were 74 vehicles in total, and the age of the vehicles ranged from 96 years old to just over 25 years old,” Mr Ziermann said.
“There was a 1986 Suzuki Mighty Boy, which is the smallest car Suzuki ever made, a little ute – this one was from Kilmore.
“(There were) Australian vehicles as well, there was a terrific unrestored (Holden) LC Torana, which was the first of the models.
“Our club members have a terrific array of vehicles, and our invited guests brought some really unique vehicles as well.”
Mr Ziermann said only four vehicles in attendance had been classified as ‘veteran,’ while six ‘vintage’ vehicles had supported a field which was largely made up of ‘modern classics’ from the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s.
Wangaratta Fire Brigade’s 1938 Dodge Pumper was also in attendance, adopting its annual spot at the front of the pack and driven by Chiltern CFA members Rob Skase and Paul Clark.
With drives through the King Valley on Saturday and a ‘mystery’ rally showcasing Moyhu, Greta and Glenrowan West to visitors on Sunday, Mr Ziermann said the event had showcased the best of the region.
“Rob Skase is an annual contiributor to the rally, he comes every year – it’s fantastic to see
that truck, it usually leads the pack when we go on our runs, and ticks along nicely at about 70kph, it’s still a very viable vehicle,” he said.
“Since 1969 the third weekend of September has been the tradition, and there’s a really good reason for that because it usually brings excellent weather with it.
“The King Valley is one of the finest courses or routes one can take in a vehicle – it’s just beautiful, and to end up at Lake William Hovell, which is the most picturesque lake in the system, was a great surprise to everyone who had never been there before.
“Those who came enjoyed themselves immensely I believe – I didn’t get any negative feedback so that’s always good.”
THREE children linked to a fire which decimated large parts of Wangaratta’s abandoned former tech school earlier this month will not be formally charged for the blaze.
A building at the Vincent Road campus, which has been out of
commission for almost a decade, was overrun by a large fire around 2.40pm on September 10, which required almost 100 firefighters to control the incident.
The fire burned for almost five hours, with the asbestos-filled Vwing building emitting toxic smoke in the area for some time.
An investigation carried out by
Wangaratta Crime Investigation Unit has since linked the blaze to three children.
“A 16-year-old and two 10-yearolds have all been cautioned in relation to arson,” a police spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said the police investigation into the incident had subsequently been closed.
Up to 50 per cent of the building was demolished in the wake of the blaze, which caused significant damage to the roof, floor and subfloor of the building.
Responsibility for the site will now be passed onto the Rural City of Wangaratta, and a formal risk assessment of the structure will be undertaken.
A GUNMAN alleged to have fired a gunshot and evaded police near Shepparton earlier this week has been linked to an armed robbery in Yarrawonga yesterday.
Police are on high alert for Stanley Turvey, after he allegedly confronted community members while armed with a firearm near Witt Street, Yarrawonga just before 10am, before stealing a white Toyota Hi-Lux dual cab utility.
The vehicle’s registration plates are 1RA-8AN.
He was last seen in the Greater Shepparton area on Tuesday afternoon.
Speaking in Wangaratta yesterday afternoon, Acting Superintendent Paul Henry said additional police resources had been deployed to the North East to support the search.
“A number of resources have been deployed to supplement local resources from the Melbourne area in order to identify that vehicle,” he said.
“I must say though, we are imploring the public to provide information to us.
“It is very concerned of-
fending that a person will take motor vehicles and people whilst with a firearm.
“This is high victim impact-type offending that must have been very traumatic for the individuals involved.
“Any matter that involves a display of the firearm in order to secure goods or transport is a recipe for disaster and heartache.”
The Hi-Lux utility is the third vehicle Mr Turvey has been linked to in the last two days, after a warrant for his arrest was issued on Monday.
He allegedly approached police armed with a firearm at a Katandra West property around midday on Monday, as police had attempted to impose a firearm prohibition order.
A police spokesperson said Mr Turvey had fired the weapon in the air, before fleeing in a vehicle.
Police gave chase but one unit lost control and rolled on nearby Creighton Road, with both members suffering minor injuries.
“Turvey then stopped at a random residence in Youanmite where he forced a male resident at gunpoint to drive him to Finley in NSW,” the
spokesperson said.
“It is believed the male was then released in Finley and was not physically injured.”
Members of the public should not approach Mr
Turvey if he is sighted, and are instead advised to contact triple zero (000) immediately.
Police are also urging Mr Turvey to hand himself in at any local police station.
■ From page 1
The presence of high ground water and flooding in the park has also been a factor in the assessment of the trees and their safety.
“After several meetings with internal and external experts to review our plans, risks, mitigations, and the trees’ current state, our recent decision has
POLICE are continuing their search for a missing Chesney Vale man at Winton Wetlands.
40-year-old Hayden was last seen on Friday, September 8 in the vicinity of Lakeside Drive in Chesney Vale.
Police, SES, CFA, Ambulance Victoria and DEECA resources spent much of last week searching the area, covering open and hilly grassy areas, farmland, bush, scrub and swamp vegetation.
SES members have come from all over the state to join the search, with members from as far as Narre Warren and Port Phillip aiding the search effort.
Police helicopters and boat rescue teams have also supported the search.
been taken,” Mr Goonan said.
“This has always been the officer’s approach; we informed the community of the worst-case outcome as it was at the time, and then we continued to reassess.
“Access to all parts of the park is managed to minimise risk where possible.
“I’m proud of the work the officers
and contractors have completed to enable us to be at this point.
“They should be commended on finding a balance in a complex space.”
Some sections of the park are still wet and works won’t be able to be undertaken with the pruning of trees and these areas will be fenced off until they dry out further.
Anyone with information on Mr Turvey’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au.
Hayden is Aboriginal, is 184cms tall and has short dark hair, and was last seen barefoot and wearing dark clothing.
Anyone who sights Hayden or has information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Benalla Police Station on 5760 0200.
LOOKING
IMMACULATE: Workers take a look at some of the trees in Merriwa Park yesterday prior to the park’s reopening on Friday afternoon.
GALEN Catholic College marked R U OK? Day last Thursday, September 14 with a range of lunchtime activities including a free barbecue, yoga, mindful eating, a short film festival, origami, closest to the pin golf, a torpedo challenge, and a rave room.
A solidarity walk was also conducted at recess.
Students and staff were encouraged to wear a touch of yellow (the colour representing the national day of action), and donated to the R U OK? Foundation.
BRIGHT GUESS: Lily Cairns guessed there were 953 yellow lollies in the jar - very close to the actual 954.
ASKING THE QUESTION: Zavier Keller, Sienna Sims, Stephanie Leerson, Chelsea Achammer, Gemma Baines, Blake Little, Chloe Trevaskis, Joseph Watter, Imogen Currie and Hayden Cole with a sign that was placed on the college fence; AT RIGHT: Students prepare the sign.
A WANGARATTA man who was last year fined $3700 after failing to seek veterinary help for his Kelpie crossbreed has been given three weeks to organise a court-ordered payment plan.
The accused, in his early 20s, was ordered to pay $250 a week in August last year, after his dog was seized by the RSPCA in early 2021 when officers noticed alleged burn wounds to the dog’s left hip and right rump.
In an effort to retrieve his dog, the accused was said to have intimidated staff at RSPCA’s former Connell Street shelter, and was described as “emotional and distressed” when being interviewed by police.
The $3700 compensation order mainly covered outstanding
veterinary bills accrued by the RSPCA after the dog was seized.
Facing Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, the accused admitted he had failed to comply with the terms of last year’s sentence, which saw him placed on a good behaviour bond without conviction.
He said in paying off another court-ordered fine, he had got “mixed up”, and promised to call the state’s fines overseer as soon as he left the court room.
Magistrate Peter Dunn said the accused ought to have known he was returning to court to answer the compensation order, but granted the accused until October 9 to get his affairs in order before the matter returns to court.
AT a time when demand for its assistance is ever-rising, the Our Lady’s Conference of St Vincent de Paul is preparing to mark its 60th anniversary in Wangaratta.
The conference, which operates in the rural city separately but alongside Wangaratta’s St Patrick’s Conference of St Vincent de Paul, started in 1963 based around Our Lady’s parish in South Wangaratta.
Prior to its establishment, White Street resident Tom Busst, who lived opposite Our Lady’s Primary School, would collect and distribute goods and garments from his garage, and from a store at Our Lady’s, with the blessing of muchloved parish priest Fr James Byrne and assistance from locals including Bill Fenlon.
This arrangement continued for some time after the conference was established.
Mike Iverson, who joined the conference soon after its inception, in 1964, took on the presidency the following year from Andrew Mulqueen, and recalled conference members in the early days included Bill Hollwell, Tony Byrne, Brian Jordan, Max Gibson, George Carmody, Bill Woodsell and Jim McQuade.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Current president Nellie van der Heyden has been with the Our Lady’s conference for 10 years, and said it now had a focus on Wangaratta’s homeless.
“Helping people in need makes you realise we are really privileged,” she said.
“We’ve got homes, family, food on the table, clothes on our backs; every time I come home from volunteering, I remember how lucky I am.”
While the rising cost of living has increased the workload for the conference’s 14 members, Nellie said it was the breakthrough moments of the role that kept her involved.
“Getting the good storythe person who finds a job or a home - makes it all worthwhile,” she said.
“It doesn’t happen every time, but when it does, it’s wonderful.
“I’d always wanted to be involved, because I was connected with people when I worked in home care, and
I’ve really enjoyed it.”
As the conference prepares to celebrate its diamond milestone with a 10am mass followed by morning tea at Our Lady’s Church this Sunday, September 24, Nellie said it may be a good time for those who have long considered assisting St Vincent de Paul to find out more.
“We do need more young ones; most of our conference members are aged over 80,
Construction of Inland Rail in Wangaratta will ramp up over the next week as we install the new pedestrian underpass at the railway station.
Between 10pm Friday 22 September and 3pm Wednesday 27 September, our construction partner McConnell Dowell will undertake these important works. These include removing the existing track, installing precast sections of the underpass and then reinstalling the track. There will be train services changes with the works occurring during a broader track possession between 23-25 September, that will see the closure of the Sydney to Melbourne rail line.
Between 26-27 September, the Albury Line trains will not stop at Wangaratta Station. A temporary timetable will be in place for passengers travelling to and from Wangaratta. For train service changes, visit vline.com.au or transportnsw.info
Construction of Inland Rail in Wangaratta and the pedestrian underpass is expected to be completed in late 2024.
so we would love some new members,” she said.
Nellie said volunteers required a police check and working with children check, but most importantly, the ability to offer a couple of hours a week to talk and listen to people.
“That’s the most important thing if you’re involved in the interviews - listening to their stories,” she said.
“But there are lots of other
ways to be involved in St Vincent de Paul.”
Along with the St Patrick’s conference, the Our Lady’s conference utilises the new St Vincent de Paul welfare centre located at the rear of the Vinnies shop in Rowan Street, which was opened earlier this year.
“It has made a big difference, particularly to the privacy of those coming in to see us - and we are keeping
quite busy,” Nellie said.
“Last Monday, we saw 19 people on a Monday afternoon, over the two hours of opening.”
Anyone who has been part of the Our Lady’s conference, or who would like to join in the celebrations for its 60th anniversary, is encouraged to attend the mass and morning tea at Our Lady’s in White Street from 10am on Sunday, September 24.
Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia. In Victoria, works will be undertaken at 12 sites to enable double-stacked freight trains to pass safely and ensure everyday products can be delivered faster and more reliably around Australia.
1800 732 761 victoriaprojects@artc.com.au inlandrail.com.au/b2a
Stay
YOU don’t realise what you have until it’s gone.
This is an old adage that rings true with many things in life, especially with the best assets we have as individuals and as a community.
There will be people who use Wangaratta’s Merriwa Park sucking in deep breaths of fresh air and looking skywards as they revisit the beautiful space from this Friday afternoon.
The park has been closed to visitors and those who cherish their connection to nature have been a tad amiss since council closed the venue in early July.
Yes, there is a selection of other parks that people can enjoy in Wangaratta and open space reserves that provide that real sense of ‘the great outdoors’, more than let’s say the concrete jungles of metro Melbourne.
But, Merriwa Park is in many people’s views, the cream of the crop of parks in the rural city.
There have been opinions either side of the fence as to whether the park should have been shut at all, but council, as an authority, did its due diligence and will hopefully get a favourable outcome from its planning application to only have to remove three concerning trees.
Every tree poses some degree of risk to the people who use the areas they grow in, and there has to be a balanced approach to determining the levels of safety and risk for all users.
This needs to take place with a hand of caution while at the same time maintaining the environmental assets that make the park what it is.
It would be fair to say this has been achieved.
1 Bob Dyer is best remembered for his work in which longrunning radio and then television quiz show?
(a) Wheel of Fortune
(b) Pick a Box
(c) It’s Academic
(d) Blankety Blanks
(a) Lewis Hamilton
(b) Sebastian Vettel
(c) Alain Prost
(d) Michael Schumacher
4 What is the profession of George B. Wilson in the 1925 novel, The Great Gatsby?
(a) Doctor
(b) Bond salesman
6 The Loa River is the longest river in which country?
(a) Ecuador
(b) Argentina
(c) Chile
(d) Venezuela
(b) Pearl Jam
(c) Green Day
(d) Aerosmith
9 What is the coldest planet in our solar system?
(a) Neptune
(b) Saturn
(c) Jupiter
(d) Uranus
2
In which country could you walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
(a) Mexico
(b) Canada
(c) South Africa
(d) United Kingdom
3 As at April 2022, which Formula One driver holds the record for the most race wins in total?
(c) Mechanic
(d) Landscape gardener
5 Who was awarded the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Maria Ressa?
(a) Dmitry Muratov
(b) Abiy Ahmed
(c) Denis Mukwege
(d) Nadia Murad
7 In 1893, which country became the first nation in the world to grant all women the right to vote?
(a) New Zealand
(b) United States
(c) France
(d) Australia
8 Mike McCready is one of the founding members of which famous band?
(a) Red Hot Chili Peppers
10 How many times did Jack Newton win the Australian Open golf tournament?
(a) Zero
(b) One
(c) Two
(d) Three
KUDOS to the Rural City of Wangaratta for the amazing “family friendly” opening of the Glenrowan Discovery Hub on Saturday, September 16.
The gem was the scavenger hunt that led people to step into various business houses and see what they had to offer. Brilliant.
All activities were free.
The town was full of families enjoying the whole interactive scenarios of what was offered.
Well done to all organisers and business houses that welcomed everyone, especially children full of enthusiasm.
Steve and Urve Fulton, Glenrowan
SATURDAY was a lovely day so I decided to walk into town with my trusty guide dog.
A few things put me right off, unfortunately.
Walked down Murdoch Road and discovered that Merriwa Park was closed.
Not just closed but still closed.
How many months does it take to decide when and how to knock down some trees?
According to the local council, it does take some sort of masterplan before it even gets off the ground.
This council was, I think, voted in to do things but I am convinced they just do not know what to do.
As the famous NIKE advert tells us - Just Do It.
Finally arrived in town and passing five coffee places or cafes, my old guide dog just could not find a drink.
Finally went to a vet clinic where we found a bowl of water and he was satisfied.
He was almost on his back with his legs in the air as he was so happy.
When will the local cafes try and put out a dog bowl full of water, as they might get myself inside for a cake and a drink as well.
This is a country town and as such, the owners of eateries, should look after our animals too.
It would be a nice little gesture, at least.
Cristopher Watts, WangarattaI THINK the best way to beat depression is to stop watching the news on TV and go for a walk instead.
Pat Kuhle, WangarattaCOUNCIL to Homeless Persons (CHP) welcomes Victoria’s slated short-term accommodation levy and we’re calling for proceeds to be funnelled into public and community housing.
State cabinet is reportedly consider a new levy of up to 7.5 per cent on short-stay accommodation like Airbnb.
Victoria is in the biggest housing crisis in recent memory and trails the nation on social housing.
A levy on bookings through platforms like Airbnb has the potential to raise more
than $30 million a year to house people without homes, but ending the housing crisis will require billions, not millions, in new investment.
The short-stay levy can’t occur in a vacuum.
It must be accompanied by a firm commitment to build at least 60,000 public and community homes over the next decade.
Deborah Di Natale, CHPWE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
WANGARATTA resident, Julie Davey, has won a prestigious research award from the Stroke Society of Australasia.
She was recently named winner of the ‘Best New Investigator Abstract’ for her abstract titled ‘i-Rebound after stroke - the Consumer Perspective’.
Julie suffered multiple brain stem strokes in one night in 2015, leaving her densely paralysed on the left side of her body, unable to walk or stand, speak, or swallow.
She is now using her knowledge as a former health service CEO and her experience as a patient to help health professionals, researchers and organisations improve services for survivors of stroke.
Julie last month gave a presentation on her research project ‘i-Rebound after Stroke website’ at the Joint Annual Scientific Meeting of the Stroke Society of Australasia (SSA) and Smart Strokes held in Melbourne.
Following her talk she was presented with a certificate by Alexis McMahon, co-chair of the SSA, who named her the winner of ‘Best New Investigator Abstract’ award.
It is the first time this award has gone to a ‘lived-experience expert’.
Julie is a passionate advocate for improving stroke services and
has been involved in several major stroke projects.
“More than 445,000 Australians are living with the effects of stroke and about 25 per cent of people who have a stroke are aged under 54 years of age” she said.
“The i-Rebound website was created by ‘lived-experience experts’ and academic researchers in a unique partnership and it aims to help people live well after stroke and avoid having another.
“It’s a game-changing website for all stroke survivors and carers, using credible evidence-based health information, featuring interviews videos and tips from real stroke survivors.
“The SSA award is the icing on the cake for our Consumer Advisory Group and I was humbled to receive it.”
Julie said she hopes her the research on the i-Rebound project can help other stroke survivors.
“After having a stroke I was sad that I wasn’t able to return to leadership in healthcare,” she said.
“Volunteering as a consumer or patient ‘expert’ has been rewarding and validating.
“I want survivors to avoid having another stroke and to enjoy life by eating well in the Australian-Mediterranean style and by moving more.”
The website can be found at irebound.enableme.org.au.
GRANTS of up to $4000 will be made available to local sporting clubs as part of the latest round of the State Government’s sporting club grants program.
Applications are now open for the grants for grassroots sport and recreation organisations, which encourage communities to stay healthy and active.
Grants of up to $1000 will be available for uniforms, equipment and resources which improve accessibility and engagement, up to $2000 for projects to strengthen volunteering and officiating, up to $4000 to deliver a new sport or recreation program and up to $750 to support athlete travel. Applications close on October 12 at 4pm.
For more details and to apply, visit sport.vic.gov.au.
IN Friday’s Wangaratta Chronicle we reported on the senseless vandalism of a public park bench near the Roy Street bridge in Wangaratta. On the same day grateful memebrs of the public reported that council crews had restored the bench for public use.
WOMEN’S Health Goulburn
North East (WHGNE) is inviting the public to a special 30th anniversary event, in conjunction with its annual general meeting next week, to help showcase its work and engage with community on matters of health, wellbeing and equity in the region.
On Monday, September 25 WHGNE will hold its AGM at 6pm in Benalla, an event which is open to
the public and members alike.
In addition to reviewing the organisation’s past year of operations, the importance of primary prevention, health promotion and their impact on the community will be discussed by guest panellists including:
• Dr Rowan O’Hagan – research development and governance officer, Rural Health Academic Network Coordinator, Northeast Health Wangaratta:
• Lee Coller – manager health planning and prevention, Goulburn Valley Health; and
• Dr Adele Murdolo - executive director at Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health
Then, from 10am to 4pm the following day, people can attend the WHGNE Showcase, 30 years been, 30 to be seen.
WHGNE chief executive officer Amanda Kelly said the event is an op-
portunity for the public to take a look at all the organisation has achieved in collaboration with the community over the last three decades.
“People can also see what we are doing today to ensure another 30 years of working together towards gender equity and social justice in our region,” Ms Kelly said.
“Come join us in Benalla for interactive exhibits, conversation and refreshments throughout the day.
“Guest speakers include: Dr Millie Rooney (Australia reMADE), Renata Lucas (WHGNE regional manager), Katherine Keirs (WHGNE health promotion worker), and Mary Reema Anthony (WHGNE health promotion worker).” For more details on both event go to https://www.whealth.com. au/events/2023-agm-and-30-yearsbeen-30-to-be-seen-whgne-showcase-two-events-across-two-days/
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
BY SIMONE KERWIN
THE battle for Indi has been popular fodder for discussion in Wangaratta for days, but yesterday it hit the airwaves.
An imminent result in the vote count for the local federal seat proved a drawcard for ABC Radio National’s Bush Telegraph and Country Hour programs, which were both broadcast from the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre (WPAC) between 11am and 1pm.
Bush Telegraph host Cameron Wilson said strong interest in whether independent candidate Cathy McGowan would unseat Sophie Mirabella meant the time was right for a live broadcast in the rural city.
“It’s also the fact that some of what Cathy McGowan says were her reasons
for standing – mobile phone coverage, train services, and getting young people back to the country – are issues we hear about regularly from around Australia,” Mr Wilson said.
Former local councillor and state MP David Evans, current Rural City of Wangaratta councillor Tammy Atkins, local rural campaigner Nicola Bussell, and Business Wangaratta chairman Gary Gourlay were among the guests during the two programs.
Luke Davies from the Recycling String Band also gave listeners a taste of what they can expect when the group performs in the blues marquee at this year’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
And, to further highlight public transport issues, Professor Brian Costar from Swinburne University arrived late for his spot discussing the possible
outcomes of the election because he had decided to take the train.
“I have firsthand experience of the train services in rural and regional Australia,” he joked as he took his place at the microphone.
But he said he had also witnessed the generosity of locals when he was offered a lift from the train station to the WPAC.
An interested audience of about a dozen, including a strong Voice 4 Indi presence, took the chance yesterday to see how a live radio show is put together.
And Mr Wilson said the presenters relished the chance to escape from the studio to meet their listeners.
“It’s always great to get on the road, and I love this part of the world,” he said.
RUBY Grace Fallon was born on Thursday, September 7 at 10:47am and weighed 3.68kg (8lb 1oz). She is the sister of Scarlett Fallon and the daughter of Jasmine Russell and Samuel Fallon of Wangaratta.
By CHLOE JAENICKE
MIDWIVES and nurses
at Northeast Health
Wangaratta were once again kept busy last week with plenty of new mums and bubs arriving.
The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/ or siblings.
Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.
Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
THE success of LINE’s inaugural Pride Fair Day has been recognised with just under $11,000 of State Government funding for a “bigger and better” event next year.
Announced last week, the event has received $5000 more funding from the State Government compared to last year, which had LINE executive officer Allison Winters buzzing with excitement.
“It means we can have a bigger space, more musicians, performers and entertainers and hopefully have it longer, we’re hoping to take it into the night as well,” they said.
“We had a really successful event this year and we’re hoping to make it bigger and better for next year’s event and we’re super thankful we’ll be able to have some support from the Victorian Government to make that happen.”
Held in March this year at the King George V Gardens, LINE’s Pride Fair Day attracted around 500 visitors from across the region to witness a pride themed festival of entertainment, supported by over 30 local stallholders.
With this year’s Pride Fair Day scheduled for February 9, Allison said the group has already been “overwhelmed” with the support of nine local businesses and organisations for the event, which will be aimed to be inclusive and safe for all.
“We’ve got a team of organisers who are putting things in place to make next year’s event safe but also fabulous,” they said.
“We’re really mindful that cancellations of events this year due to far-right threats are going to make our planning next year focused on safety but also celebration.
“It’s really great with the extra funding we can support more artists to be at the event, it’s all about bringing people to Wang.
“If this could become a regular large event for Wangaratta it would really boost the local community and the local economy as well, that’s our aim.”
Minister for equality Harriet Shing last week announced 13 community groups, organisations and artists would receive grants to host LGBTIQ+ focused events, workshops and activities in the 2023-24 Pride Regional Activation Program. The program is delivered in
partnership with leading LGBTIQ+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma and the State Government.
“Our regional and rural LGBTIQ+ communities are strong and thriving, and along with providing more opportunities for rainbow communities across the state to connect and express pride in who they are, events like these give all Victorians the chance to show support for LGBTIQ+ people,” Ms Shing said.
WANGARATTA music-lovers turned out in large numbers on a Sunday afternoon to hear a performance of the 2023 Three Choirs Festival.
Festival organisers said Wangaratta’s Holy Trinity Cathedral provided the ideal venue and acoustic resonance for the event, allowing the music to shine.
The performance involved the combined choirs of Wangaratta’s Vocal Dimension, The Beechworth Singers, and the border’s Murray Concert Choir, who thrilled the audience with their concert program titled “Gloria!” under the leadership of Albury conductor, Paul Tasker.
The near-capacity audience saw
the Wangaratta cathedral live up to its reputation as possibly the finest venue in the North East for performances of classical music in front of a large audience.
The string ensemble of the Three Choirs Festival Orchestra set the tone with its spirited accompaniment of Vivaldi’s famous choral work, Gloria, with its driv-
ROUSING EVENT: The 2023 Three Choirs Festival performance at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Wangaratta generated a standing ovation from the appreciative audience.
ing rhythms, unforgettable melodies and charming solos.
John Rutter’s moving, unaccompanied 2022 composition, Ukrainian Prayer, invited reflection on the current hostilities in Eastern Europe.
The cathedral’s recently-acquired grand piano, and Aylish Jorgensen on solo cello, were then
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employed to stunning effect in Karl Jenkins’ celebrated composition The Armed Man (A Mass for Peace), while the brass ensemble of the orchestra was a huge hit accompanying the choir at “full volume” in Rutter’s exhilarating composition, Gloria.
Performers judged it to be one of the most satisfying Three Choirs Festivals of the last 20 years and say they are already looking forward to the next collaboration, scheduled for September, 2025.
The audience’s appreciation was in no doubt from the standing ovation at the festival’s conclusion, and they are bound to be eagerly awaiting an announcement about the next program to be performed.
HOOK, LINE AND SINKER: Local lakes throughout the North East have been restocked with rainbow trout ahead of the school holiday period.
FAMILIES can expect to reel in a big catch these school holidays, with some 600 catchable rainbow trout added to stocks at Glenrowan Recreational Reserve Lake courtesy of the State Government.
Glenrowan’s September boost follows a similar 600-strong stocking refresh during the June/July holidays, and will be bolstered by a number of other waterways in nearby Indigo Shire.
Allans Flat Dredge Hole in Yackandandah received 750 additional trout, Chiltern’s Lake Anderson received 300, Rutherglen’s King Lake had 200 added and Lake Sambell was bolstered with 550 extra fish. Wangaratta’s Merriwa Park was not re-stocked, due to an ongoing closure at the park amid safety concerns.
The trout were largely grown at the Victorian Fishing Authority’s Snobs Creek hatchery near Eildon, and take a variety of widely available baits such as worms and PowerBait.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny said she was looking forward to seeing families enjoying the outdoors over the spring break.
“The weather’s starting to warm up so what better time to grab the kids or grandkids, a few rods and get the next generation hooked on fishing,” she said.
“Lakes… will be full of life these holidays and with many featuring facilities like walking tracks, playgrounds and barbecues, you can enjoy the great outdoors with a picnic lunch and maybe even take fresh fish home for dinner.”
In family fishing lakes, a daily bag limit of five trout applies, of which only two can exceed 35cm. For more information, visit vfa. vic.gov.au/fishingguide.
Mosquitoes are a scourge across the globe, causing millions of deaths every year. They are active during the hot and wet summer months and can be extremely irritating. Mosquitoes can also cause major disruptions to life and social activities through their persistent biting, which can cause allergic reactions.
Treating Australian “mozzies” requires a multi-faceted approach. If you’re experiencing an infestation, Flick’s expert technicians will visit the problematic location and find the breeding sites. They will help identify and advise on removing and treating potential breeding sites such as stagnant water, long grass and thick foliage, as well as applying high quality pest control products.
When it comes to mozzie control and eradication don’t wait until its too late, call us today
13 14 40
IN recent weeks the Australian Electoral Commission has been distributing, to households, an official pamphlet (pictured) outlining the arguments for the yes and no cases ahead of the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament.
The arguments contained in the pamphlet have been provided by Members of Parliament and Senators and circulated.
Feedback The Wangaratta Chronicle has received suggests not all householders have received the pamphlet.
We have summarised below the arguments ahead of voters being asked to vote either yes or no to altering
“the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice”.
The referendum, if successful, will see the government move to establish a permanent body, with the ability to make representations to the government, its departments and agencies, to provide advice on laws relating to Indigenous people.
The government would not be bound by the advice of the body.
What the body looks like can be determined and changed by the government of the day.
1. The idea for the Voice came directly from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and yes voters are supporting a proposal backed by over 80 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The call for a Voice did not come from politicians.
2. Constitutional recognition is a powerful statement that will drive practical change. Yes voters are sending a powerful message to the world about Australia’s unity and are making a practical difference for the future. Generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have enriched our nation. Voting Yes is an act of reconciliation that will deliver real results.
3. The Voice is a vehicle to deliver real improvements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in life expectancy, infant mortality and health, education and employment. For a long time, governments with good intentions have spent billions trying to deal with these issues. The current approach is broken and the Voice is our best chance to fix it.
4. Voting yes will mean reconciling our past and moving to a better future. At the 1967 referendum Australian voted Yes to changing the Constitution, so Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would be counted in the population in the same way as everyone else. It was a unifying step and together we have a chance to take the next step. A Other nations with similar histories,
like Canada and New Zealand, formally recognised their own First Peoples decades ago.
5. Voting yes will save money because governments from both sides have invested billions in programs that haven’t fixed problems or reached communities. a Voice will help us listen to locals and save money. We’re all better of when governments don’t waste taxpayer money on things that aren’t working.
6. The time is right now. The idea of a Voice has been decades in the making. Voting NO means nothing will change. Don’t risk more of the same like worse life expectancy, worse results in education and employment, worse outcomes in health. Vote Yes to break this cycle and unite our nation.
7. The Voice will advise on practical steps to improve Indigenous health, education, employment and housing. putting the Voice in the Constitution gives it stability and independence, now and into the future. This means the Voice can give frank advice, without getting caught up in short-term politics.
8. Voting yes means governments will get better advice and deliver better outcomes. The change has been backed by constitutional experts, including senior lawyers and former High Court judges. They say the Voice is constitutionally and legally sound and will enhance our system of government.
1. The Voice is legally risky. Enshrining a Voice in the Constitution means it is open to legal challenge and interpretation by the High Court. Legal experts don't agree, and can’t know for sure, how the High Court will interpret such a constitutional change. The Voice has not been road tested. There is no comparable constitutional body like this anywhere in the world.
2. There are no details. We don't know how it will help disadvantaged communities or how many members will be elected, or how this would occur. We also don't know how it would make representations or be held accountable. These details would only be worked through after Australians have voted. Australians shouldn't be asked to sign a blank cheque.
3. Enshrining in our Constitution a body for only one group of Australians means permanently dividing Australians. This goes against a key principle of our democratic system, that all Australians are equal before the law. Our national anthem was recently changed to reflect the fact we are “one and free”. The Voice would permanently divide Australians, in law and spirit.
4. It won’t help Indigenous Australians. There are currently hundreds of Indigenous representative bodies at all levels of government, along with the National Indigenous Australians Agency,
which has 1400 staff. More bureaucracy is not the answer.
5. This Voice model isn't just to the Parliament, it goes to “Executive Government” that includes all departments and agencies. Legal experts have expressed concern about its scope. Decisions in relation to the economy, national security, infrastructure, health, education and more, would all be within its scope.
6. It risks delays and dysfunction. Many legal experts have warned the Voice could cause considerable delays in decision making creating a risk of dysfunctional government.
7. What comes next? Already, many activists are campaigning to abolish Australia Day, change our flag and other institutions.
8. It will be costly and bureaucratic as we don’t know how much additional funding would be allocated to this Voice, another detail that will be determined after the referendum.
9. This Voice will be permanent. It will not be legislation that can be reversed.
10. There are better ways forward. The referendum is not about simply recognising Indigenous Australians in the Constitution. Recognition has widespread support, however this Voice proposal is the problem.
SOURCE: The Australian Government’s Referendum Booklet. Both the yes and no sides of the debate were provided with a word count of 2000 words to present their arguments. The Yes campaign provided 8 reasons and the No campaign provided 10.
A POWERFUL and engaging show in which comedian Damian Callinan shares the story of how his parents met during the late 1940s, will come to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on October 5, in what will be the final matinee show of the year.
It was the surprise discovery of his mother’s diary which led Damian, a three-time Barry Award nominee, on a cinematic, romantic romp through postwar Melbourne.
On the night of his dad’s funeral in 2018, Damian and his siblings discovered the diary penned by his mother in 1946.
Whether it was a stand-alone
AN exhibition of artworks by local artist Milly Quin has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens. Called “Adrift”, it features drawings, photography and paintings which have been completed by Milly as part her year as the gallery’s Young Artist Mentorship Program participant for this year..
The community is invited to gather for a meet and greet with Milly to celebrate the exhibition’s opening on Thursday from 5pm to 6pm.
THE Resilience Project is tackling children’s mental health with a high-energy kids show coming to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tomorrow at 11am.
Through music, storytelling and plenty of laughs, The Resilience Project’s engaging and entertaining presenter, Martin Heppell, will teach children aged five to 12 and their parents “3 Happy Tricks” to help combat feelings of anxiety and depression. Tickets are available now by visiting wpacc.com.au.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) With your Arian charm quotient at an almost all-time high this week, plus all the facts you have to back you up, you just might win over the last doubters of your proposal.
journal or the sole survivor of a collection, they’ll never know, but from the moment Damian began reading excerpts to the family, he knew it was something special and suspected that it would become the focus for a new show.
Charting the series of events leading to, and following the meeting of his parents, the diary is both a love story and a time capsule of life as Australians tried to readjust after the trials of WW2.
The show initially recreates a 1940s movie theatre experience with big band orchestras and newsreels leading the audience into the first feature film.
A camera weaves through the
A SERIES of fun activities will be held this week at the Wangaratta Library for primary school aged kids during the school holidays.
There will be the opportunity make colourful wind chimes today from 10.30am to 11.30am, or to create sand art masterpieces on Friday from 10.30 am to 11.30am.
Next week there will be an origami session on Monday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, with Winni Wizard to host an energetic, magic show on Wednesday, September 27 from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.
Bookings are essential by calling 5721 2366 or email library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.
BE inspired this spring by visiting beautiful gardens in the local area when Friends of Lacluta holds its annual Open Gardens day on Sunday, October 22 from 10am until 4pm.
Gardens will be open in 434 Lyons Road, Tarrawingee, 77 Boorhaman Road in North Wangaratta and 1610 Boorhaman Road in Boorhaman, with plants and produce stalls, refreshments and live music in Tarrawingee.
Entry is $10 for one garden (or $20 for all three) with children’s entry free, and funds raised support projects underway in communities in Timor Leste.
crowd at a packed 1940s town hall dance, however, just as we meet our heroine, the film comes to an abrupt halt and the audience are returned to live on stage, where Damian admits he ran out of funding to finish the film.
With the audience’s permission, he begins to pitch how he thinks the rest of the film will play out.
With suitors lining up for 19-year-old Kathleen Purcell, will Jack Bowlen ever get the Canadian two-step right, and will Ron Rogan keep his hands to himself?
But most importantly for Damian’s very existence, will she notice the dapper fly boy who
has just returned from active service?
His mother’s charming journal is hilariously contrasted with his father Adrian’s retirement diary that bookends his parent’s loving relationship and sadly, reveals the tragedy that brought it to an end.
The creator and star of the Netflix hit film The Merger uses his powerful gift for storytelling to recast his parents in a funny and poignant double feature of love and loss.
See it at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on October 5 at 10.30am with tickets available at wpacc. com.au or by calling 5722 8105.
THE Rural City of Wangaratta and “Safer Together” are proud to present a free Seniors Concert with Arthur Hull at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre Memorial Hall on Wednesday, October 11 at 2pm.
HIT
Accomplished performer Glenn Starr will sing unforgettable hits from the 1950s and 1960s when he presents a matinee show at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre Memorial Hall as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival 2023. Including songs from the likes of Gene Pitney, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, the Beatles and more, the show will be held on Wednesday, October 18 at 10.30am and tickets are $20 which includes a delicious morning tea, available from wpacc.com.au or by calling 5722 8105.
A rising star, student of Albury’s Flying Fruit Fly Circus and a recent performer on The Voice in 2022, Arthur will be performing popular ballads from the past 30 years.
While the event is free, space is limited and bookings are essential by visiting wpacc.com.au or by calling 5722 8105.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You might be in line for that job change you applied for. But be advised that you could be called on to defend your qualifications against supporters of other applicants.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Creating a new approach to an old idea is one way to get beyond that workplace impasse. There’s no such problems in your personal life, though, as things continue to flow smoothly.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Be more forthcoming about your feelings concerning a proposed change either in your workplace or in your personal life. Your opinions are valuable. Don’t keep them hidden.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) A changing situation in your life needs more patience than you appear to be willing to offer. Allowing it to develop at its own pace is the wisest course you can take at this time.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) With more stability in your life -- both on personal and professional levels -- this could be a good time to strengthen relationships with both friends and colleagues.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) People have always relied on your integrity not only to get a job done, but to get it done right. So don’t be pressured by anyone into cutting corners to save time.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)
While others might get rattled over unexpected changes, your ability to adapt calmly and competently helps you make a positive impression during a crucial period.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A changing environment might be daunting for some, but the adventurous Sagittarian takes it all in stride. A friend from the past could awaken some meaningful memories.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) With your self-assurance rising to full strength, the bold Goat should feel confident about opening up to new ventures as well as new relationships.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)
Reaching out to someone who has been unkind to you might not be easy. But in the long run, it will prove to have been the right thing to do. A friend offers moral support.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20)
Your keen insight once again helps you work through a seemingly insoluble problem in your workplace. The weekend offers a good chance to develop new relationships.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
RESIDENTS of the Upper King Valley are being called on to contribute to the development of a new Community Action Plan to help shape the future of the region.
An initiative of the King Valley Residents Association (KVRA), the idea is to develop a plan that will look at the history, community assets (and challenges) the region faces, identifying the key things the community wants to achieve in the coming years.
KVRA spokesperson Jenny Ashby said while bringing communities and businesses together in the Upper King Valley is not a new idea, doing it for the purposes of developing a Community Action Plan for the region is.
She said the KVRA is working with Rural Aid (whose vision is to foster strong and sustainable rural communities), and with Peter Kenyon (Bank of I.D.E.A.S.) to develop the plan.
“Peter Kenyon is convinced that one cannot develop communities from the top down or from the outside in - it requires communities to build from the inside out, and for their members to invest themselves, ideas, assets and resources in the process,” she said.
“Over the last two decades Peter has worked with over 2000 communities throughout Australia and overseas seeking to facilitate fresh and creative ways that stimulate community and economic renewal.”
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host lunch at the Wangaratta Club today from 12 noon.
The club will hold indoor carpet bowls tomorrow (Thursday) from 12 noon, cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
Next Wednesday, September 27, the club will hold a social gathering at its clubrooms from 1.30pm.
ELDORADO Senior Citizens Club hosts indoor carpet bowls at the hall every Thursday from 12.45pm.
PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am.
Those who are able can also meet at the main entrance from 9.30am for a 30 minute river walk prior to coffee.
For more information, contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.
WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held on Friday, September 22 from 2pm to 4pm at St Patrick’s supper room in Ford Street.
Music will be provided by The Rustic Ramblers, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, and admission is $5 (non-members $7), which includes afternoon tea.
For further information, phone Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451.
ENJOY craft at the Cheshunt Hall on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 11.30am.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION: Work is underway on the Whitfield Playspace and Adventure Hub being created in the main street of Whitfield next to the police station. Part of the King Valley Prosecco Road Revitalisation Project, the area will incorporate an interactive playspace, toilets, barbecue, picnic seating and off-road parking. It is expected to be completed by the end of December (weather permitting).
Making the most of Peter’s expertise and experience, the KVRA has started the process of community engagement leading to a Community Opportunities Workshop which will be held at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve on Wednesday, October 18 at 5.30pm.
Those attending will share a free meal and talk together about shaping the future of King Valley.
“We want people to bring their ideas, enthusiasm, an open mind and a can-do attitude,” said Ms Ashby.
“Peter Kenyon will facilitate a community discussion on what the community wants for the future of the King Valley and develop with us, strategies and actions on how to make that happen.
“It is a great initiative for the King Valley and the resident’s association.”
Ms Ashby said while over the years there have been many plans
The dance is held on the fourth Friday of each month.
THE Make-A-Wish Foundation will hold a fundraising barbecue at Bunnings Wangaratta on Saturday, September 23 from 8am to 4pm.
As well as classic sausages and onions in bread with a range of sauces and cold drinks, there will be lucky dips for kids available.
Help raise funds to grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.
THE Australian Plant Society (Wangaratta) will hold its next gathering on Thursday, September 28 from 7pm at the Masonic Hall in Appin Street.
The main focus will be on the Grand Spring Flowers Display, so bring along flowers from your garden.
The following Sunday, October 1, will see the group enjoy waratahs, and many other beautiful plants, on a member’s property at Eurobin.
For details, phone 5725 7207. All welcome.
WANGARATTA Family History Society will host two events at the Wangaratta Library during Seniors’ Month in October.
The first will be held on Thursday, October 5 from 10am, on using your computer and technology to research your ancestry, and the second, on Thursday, October 19 from 10am, will focus on trouble-shooting with family tree software.
Although there is no cost, bookings
made for the King Valley by council or specific interest groups like Tourism North East, this will be “by the community, for the community.”
“This Community Action Plan process brings everyone together – local businesses, community groups, young people, interested individuals – that’s why it’s different this time,” she said.
In the next few weeks, the KVRA will undertake a residents survey, business survey and youth survey and distribute ‘big ideas’ cards, designed to collect diverse views which will feed into the workshop.
During the day on October 18, groups from the agricultural, hospitality, wine, arts, services and other sectors can arrange a meeting time with Peter Kenyon to discuss their ideas as part of an “all day conversations” session.
A flyer will be sent to all Upper King Valley residents in commu-
are essential, and can be made by emailing wangfamhs@gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.
WANGARATTA Table Tennis Association is hosting a new social daytime group at the Wangaratta Showgrounds pavilion on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon.
People of all ages, from beginners to more experienced players, are encouraged to play singles and doubles in a relaxed, friendly environment, with coaching for beginners.
For more information, phone Maxine on 0403 209 857 or Julie on 0422 321 456.
THE Wangaratta Artists are under new management, and welcome budding artists to come along, and established artists to exhibit in the studio at Batchelor’s Green.
The group meets at the studio on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 noon.
For more information, phone Clare on 0419 365 149.
COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am.
Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table
Bring your skills (or no skills) or just come along and socialise, with more information available by contacting Lyn on 0427 270 551.
THE next meeting of the King Valley CWA will be held on Tuesday, October, 3 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve at 6.30 pm.
All local women are welcome to join in with RSVP to Mary on 0427 404 411.
A FREE community event will be held at the Cheshunt Hall on Thursday, October 5 from 12pm to 2.30pm as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.
nities including Edi, King Valley, Whitfield, Cheshunt, Rose River, Myrrhee and Whitlands about the workshop, along with a short survey.
People are asked to complete it by October 11 and put it into a KVRA box located at the Whitfield and Cheshunt general stores.
Ms Ashby said all residents are encouraged to give their feedback and come to the workshop.
“The more voices and contributions from people, the greater the outcome for the Upper King Valley communities,” she said.
Groups wanting to organise a meeting with Peter during the day on Wednesday, October 18 are invited to contact Jenny Ashby on 0419 878 025 to make a time, or email kingvalleyra@gmail.com.
To RSVP for the Community Opportunities Workshop being held at 5.30pm, contact Ms Ashby by October 4 (for catering purposes).
Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome. Morning tea provided –please bring your own cup.
For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.
All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street.
New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.
GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday –arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.
The competition runs until 3.30pm–4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.
COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 12.30pm.
Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For further information, phone club president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.
Celebrating the resilient community, there will be barbecue and ice cream with live music by performer Arthur Hull and representatives from emergency services will also be present.
To RSVP for catering purposes call Angie on 5722 0790 before October 3.
MOYHU Primary School will hold a trivia night fundraiser on Saturday, October 14 at the Moyhu Recreation Reserve.
Doors open at 6pm with the first question at 6.30pm and entry is $20 per person which includes a free sausage sizzle (byo drinks and nibbles).
There will be great prizes up for grabs with teams of 10 welcome, and those wanting to be part of a team are encouraged to call 0432 601 337.
SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of the month for a relaxed day of sit, sew and chat, from 10am to 3pm at the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club, off the river end of College Street. Contact Colleen on 0427 221 138.
A NEW croquet club has started at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park.
The group plays on Sunday afternoons, Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings, equipment supplied. While the park is closed, the club has found a temporary home for social gatherings at Corowa Croquet Club. For more information, contact Anne on 0490 173 169.
WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue.
New string and wind players are welcome to come along to rehearsals to try out.
For more information, email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Chloe on 0413 775 027.
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.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677 5723 0101 classifieds@ nemedia.com.au
2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE from $42
General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au
Employment: northeastjobs.com.au
Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au
WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE
Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club Inc.
1pm Saturday, October 14, 2023.
Location: WLTC clubrooms. All members welcome and encouraged to attend.
Contact President Barry Sullivan 0419 373 988
CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers, behavioural solutions, 0418 314 610.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482.
PUBLIC NOTICES
The Wangaratta Chronicle office will be closed for business on September 29, 2023 for the Friday before the AFL Grand Final public holiday.
Deadline for classified advertisements for Monday, October 2 edition, will be Thursday, September 28 at 4pm. Phone 5723 0101 Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
TWO bedroom house, Burke Street, $300 per week plus bond, reference essential. Ph 0434 069 245
LOST male black poodle, answers to Cooee, large reward. Ph 0448 390 460.
Are you a passionate educator who likes making a difference in a child’s life?
Our Lady’s Primary School is a faith community built on the Brigidine traditions
We can offer you: Opportunity to work with an inclusive, passionate team of educators. Small class sizes.
A commitment to learning and continuous improvement.
The successful applicant will have the opportunity to work with our school here in Wangaratta. We are currently on a journey with the Science of Reading. Knowledge around this pedagogy would be an advantage but not essential.
Our Lady’s Primary School Wangaratta is committed to valuing the safety and individuality of every child. We strive to create an environment where students receive the highest possible standard of care and protection at all times.
Closing Date for Applications: 4.00 pm Friday 6 October 2023
your cover letter, resume and supported by 3 verbal referees to Principal Cassie Lynch - E: clynch@olwangaratta.catholic.edu.au
CES Ltd embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply. We are committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children.
This is an opportunity to build towards a long Apply by return response to this
North East Media and its subsidiary companies has a vacancy at its head office in Wangaratta (Victoria) for a motivated and experienced accounting and business administration professional to provide administration management, financial management, and HR support across the group.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful applicant will be responsible for the provision of day-to-day accounting and financial management responsibilities in the company. They will deliver on all financial and management accounting requirements within allocated deadlines, collaborate with the wider business to optimise finance operations and provide insightful financial and team information to the CEO for strategic decision making.
Essential Experience: management and the ability to multitask while working autonomously. role and the group.
data entry and financial record-keeping. to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders.
We offer a competitive and attractive salary package for the right person and the chance to build a good long-term stable career with a well-respected employer.
letter to: Edward Higgins
CEO North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au
2009 VE SS Holden ute, Tow bar, auto, 6 ltr V8 motor, grey leather interior like new, whole car is like new and totally standard, only travelled 67,000km in 14 years, garaged, new tyres and more, (1BC4SG), recently ceramic treated. One of the best around, $45,000 neg. Ph 0428 662 847.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
& CAMPERS
2005, 17ft Crusader pop top caravan, twin beds, single axle, 3-way fridge, reverse cycle air conditioner, 4 burner gas cook top and grill, microwave, tv/aerial, pull out awning and walls, vic registered till September 2024, $19,500. Ph 0419 272 495.
CARMODY, Ian. The President, Vice President, Board and Members of the Wangaratta Bowls and Sports Club extend sincere sympathy to Ian’s family on his passing. Sadly missed.
DEATH NOTICES
21/3/1937 – 18/9/2023
The family of Lynette June Verdon is saddened to announce her passing on September 18, 2023. Aged 86 years.
Passed away peacefully.
Much loved wife of John (dec).
Mother and mother-in-law of Jacqui and Greg, Mark, Kristen and Graeme, Simon, Paul and Mary.
Adored Grandma of Alex, Zac, Cooper, Maddi, Harry, Georgia, Riley and Ruby. Beautiful memories of a fiercely independent, strong, spirited, elegant, generous, loyal and family orientated mother and grandma.
2001 Honda CRV sport wagon (XYL126), nice paint work, all panels straight, interior v.g.c, incl seats and carpet. 4 good A.T tyres. Has little problem with overheating, good for motor swap or parts. Reg to Oct 19, 2023. $800, 235,000k’s on clock. Ph 0422 408 895.
TONUTTI 12 wheel V rake, good condition, $5500. Ph 0448 270 292.
FOR SALE $50 OR UNDER
CONCRETE Twin Tub Laundry Trough, $50. Ph 0400 615 998.
MOTOR VEHICLES
The celebration of the life of Lyn Verdon will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, commencing at 10.30am. In lieu of flowers a donation in memory of Lyn to either Scleroderma Victoria or the Cancer Council would be appreciated.
Donations can be made online at www.sclerodermavictoria.com.au/ or www.cancervic.org.au/support-us.
Lyns service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to Birallee Park on Sunday to capture some action of the thirds preliminary final between Wangaratta and Wangaratta Rovers. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle office at 37
DESPITE being kept from their home for almost three months, the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club is confident their summer season will not be impacted.
Merriwa Park was closed in July due to dangerous trees which needed to be cut down, but full access will hopefully be permitted by this weekend.
Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club president Barry Sullivan said it had been challenging to negotiate the club’s way through this period, but was glad regular activity could soon resume.
“We had special access granted for our curator to maintain the courts down there over the last month or so which has been fantastic,” he said.
“When you’re engaging with the council and understand the process they’ve got to go through, you understand a little bit more.
“The key thing for us was we had a fairly good level of communication with Marcus Goonan (director, community and infrastructure) and Ben Thomas (manager, community services) which has enabled us to manage expectations and look at alternative options for our tennis coaches, croquet players and tennis players.
“Ideally you’d want 12 months of the year access, but everyone’s keen to get back and have another hit.”
With glorious weather bathing the region over the past weeks and with the scent of spring in the air, the tennis season is just around the corner.
“We’ve got to get the final goahead, but all things are shaping up for an uninterrupted start, despite the fact that we haven’t been able to get down there to play tennis for the last three or four months,” Sullivan said.
“We’ll have a social hit on the first Saturday in October, the seventh, and on the 14th we start our aggregate competition and we’ve got our AGM on the same day - all our twilight competitions and everything else will recommence around the same time.
APPLICATIONS for the latest round of the State Government’s Sporting Club Grants Program have opened.
The grants program sees a strong focus on supporting, celebrating and building the capacity of sports volunteers in vital roles – from administration to coaching and umpiring.
Grants of up to $1000 are available for uniforms, equipment and resources that improve accessibility and engagement; up to $2000 for projects to strengthen volunteering and officiating; up to $4000 to deliver a new sport or recreation program and up to $750 to support athlete travel.
By providing more opportunities for local clubs and organisations, the program goes a long way towards futureproofing grassroot sports, while ensuring those participating are equipped with the necessary skills to take their game to the next level.
The Sporting Club Grants Program has provided more than $16 million to thousands of community sport and recreation clubs across the state since 2015.
“Juniors will be commencing too, it’s really important all our junior programs kick off on time – it will be great to see hundreds of kids back down there at Merriwa Park with a tennis racquet in their hand.
“It’ll be really rejuvenating for our members, and if anything, it might
generate a bit more in time for the season.
“It (the tree situation) probably shouldn’t have a huge impact on our membership, but if it had gone for another month or so, people would’ve started looking for other recreational activities, then it
would’ve been a real worry for us, so the timing’s better than it could’ve been.”
For the latest information on the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club’s activities, visit their website at www. wanglawntennis.com.au or check out their Facebook page.
It’s part of the Labor Government’s commitment to make community sport and recreation more inclusive and accessible, stimulate local economies, build sustainable sport and recreation volunteer opportunities and increase participation.
Applications for this round close at 4pm on October 12. For more information and to apply for Sporting Club Grants Program visit sport.vic. gov.au.
OVENS & KING FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
GRAND FINAL REVIEW
THEY’VE been one of the best and well-rounded sides in the Ovens and King reserve competition this year, and they finally have the evidence – Bright has taken out the reserves grand final in stellar fashion.
Contested on Saturday at WJ Findlay Oval in perfect conditions in front of a roaring supporting crowd, the Mountain Men produced four quarters of brilliant footy to take the flag 10.7 (67) to Benalla’s 3.9 (27).
With the stage set and onlookers ready, it was an arm wrestle through the first quarter, as Bright struggled to adapt to Benalla’s chaotic
and unpredictable game style.
After conceding the first goal of the game, Bright’s Felix Blazek levelled the scores with a brilliant set shot from a tight angle on the boundary line after the quarter time siren.
The Mountain Men started to find their rhythm as the match went on, with their half backs working overtime to clear the ball whenever it had been bombed in by the Panthers.
Their forwards started to get better looks on goals, booting three through the second quarter to push the margin beyond three goals by half-time.
Momentum continued Bright’s way after the long break, as Benalla struggled to penetrate the Mountain Men’s back six, with forward line leaders Tom MullaneGrant and Paul Harrison picking up multiple goals.
Bright put the game beyond Benalla with a four goal to one final quarter to take the premiership convincingly by 40 points.
Best on ground honours went to Sam Buckley for his
tremendous job negating Panther goal kicking gun Harry Moran.
Coach Darcy Martin said the way his side solidified after the first quarter was incredible.
“The first quarter was very chaotic, they had the ball a lot on their terms for the whole first quarter, but in the second quarter we were able to get it back on our terms and put some scoreboard pressure on,” he said.
“Our backline was where it stood out, they really controlled the ball off half back, and used it well.
“They didn’t rush, they set
us up from there.
“The sting was out of the game, and throughout the last quarter we were going through the motions but it was great we were able to kick a few goals towards the end.
“Some of the blokes who had put in a lot throughout the year were able to reap the rewards and celebrate with a few goals to finish the season.”
Martin said the reward for effort was incredible after some tough years.
“It got a little bit emotional after the game because it’s a bit of a thankless job coaching the reserves,” he said.
“We’ve been building for three years, so to be able to finally tick that box was a reward and a relief.
“Our captain Brodie Brain had a really good game, Regan Alexander had a great game as well.
“Felix Blazek came back in, he hadn’t played since round 10, so to be able to come in and do his role on the wing was unreal.
“Sam (Buckley) would’ve taken 15 intercept marks, and he’s played the whole year down forward, so to his credit, to be able to come out and go to the backline in a grand final and sacrifice his game was unreal.”
NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”
Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.
TEAMMVPRUNNER UP
MVP
WANGARATTA’S under 17 netball side was bundled out of the premiership race by Wodonga Raiders who finished the home and away season on top.
Raiders didn’t lose a game all year until last weekend’s qualifying final against Wodonga and were fired up on Sunday as they jumped to a 10-goal lead by half-time on their way to a big 69-41 win.
Wangaratta u17s coach Rachelle Petts said her side expected a tough game.
“Heading into the game against Raiders, we knew it was going to be tough, they are a team where you have to play your best netball for 60 minutes.
“We had matched them for three quarters last time we faced them, so our focus was on extending that to four quarters.
“They got a jump on us in that first quarter and although we gave ourselves opportunity to peg it back through defensive efforts we couldn’t capitalise.
“Holly Humphry was at her best on the weekend, as was Abbey Moore, they both are no fuss, hard workers who are so consistent for us week in week out.”
McKinleigh Lappin was strong for the Magpies shooting 28 goals, while Holly Humphry was excellent.
Raiders’ Australian representative Mia Lavis steered her side to victory, shooting 19 goals in a best on court display.
Despite the loss Petts is incredibly proud of her outfit.
“This season has been a stand out for our 17s.
“We missed out on finals last year which was disap-
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
pointing, so to see them chip away each week to make a prelim is fantastic.
“As a team, they have connected extremely well and as individuals their strengths really compliment the style of play we wanted to put out each week.”
The u17s O&M grand final is now set for a blockbuster with the Dogs handing Raiders their first loss in the qualifying final, winning by just one goal.
Meanwhile, Wangaratta u17s star Henry has been selected to play for North East Netball at the 2023 State Titles.
After a standout year for Wangaratta, Henry was the sole Magpie selected in the 12 person squad (plus four emergencies), while Rovers’ stars Amelia Sharp and Holly McCarthy were also picked.
“Rosie Henry has been a standout all year,” Petts said.
“Her work rate on game day and training is second to none and her speed, physicality and athleticism is a pleasure to watch, we have seen her step up into some senior games this year as well.
“Rosie is just like a sponge, she takes every little bit of feedback on and continues to build on her game.
“Her selection in the North East State titles is so well deserved-she is an amazing athlete and an even better teammate.”
The titles will be held at the State Netball Centre in Melbourne from October 7-8.
■ From back page “To all of the boys, this isn’t an individual award, I think it’s a team award and hopefully we can get the job done in the big dance this weekend.”
Wangaratta spearhead Callum Moore finished second in the Morris Medal just two votes behind winner Elliott Powell (Albury).
The Toni Wilson Medal saw joint winners for the first time since 2011 with Myrtleford’s Sophie Hanrahan and Lavington’s Maddi Lloyd winning the count on 19 votes, ahead of Yarrawonga’s Sarah Moore (17 votes).
Wangaratta took out the overall Club Championship
after strong seasons in both the football and netball codes.
The football team of the year saw three Magpies feature as Moore, Daniel Sharrock and Michael Bordignon were rewarded for strong seasons, while Alex Marklew and Sam Murray represented the Rovers. In the netball team of the year, Wangaratta’s Issy Newton was named in wing attack, while teammates Ellie Cooper and Leah Jenvey were named on the bench.
The O&M also named their netball team of the decade (2013-2022) with Magpies duo Hannah Grady and Kellie Keen starting on the bench, along with Lou Byrne as coach.
THE final sirens have all but sounded on the winter football season, which means people across the region are digging out their whites for the 2023/24 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season.
The A grade season is set to commence on Saturday, October 7, with the draws for the remaining senior and junior grades still being finalised.
WDCA president Justin Kelly said final preparations were being made for fixtures and grounds.
“The A grade draw’s been done, we’re just waiting to see the availability of the Rovers ground and the Norm Minns Oval because
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
they’ve got to top dress those two ovals, which they should be doing this week,” he said.
“You need to give it a month’s rest, so we can play on them from October 21, and that affects the B grade draw as well, so we’ve got to get all that in place.
“B and C grade will predominantly be the north and south divisions, so we’ll do those draws this week.”
The main challenge in preparing for the 2023/24 season has been getting all players and clubs on board
WITH just over two weeks to go until the 60th anniversary of the Repco Bathurst 1000, fans will get the chance to get up close to the iconic Peter Brock Trophy this week in Albury and Wagga Wagga in regional NSW.
The famous silverware, awarded to the victors of the prestigious Repco Bathurst 1000, has now embarked on the final leg of an exhilarating roadshow journey which has seen the Trophy visit Australian states and territories, and its longest ever trip to Detroit in the USA.
The Repco Bathurst 1000 Trophy Tour’s first stop on the roadshow is in Albury, the home of the only NSW-based team in the Repco Supercars Championship, Brad Jones Racing.
Fans are invited to get up close with the trophy and Supercars Gen3 race cars at the Albury Riverside Precinct from 3pm –5pm today (Wednesday).
Following the Albury event, the trophy will visit Wagga’s famous beach, Canberra’s Gold Creek Village, Wollongong’s prominent Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse, Sydney Harbour and Orange’s CBD before its arrival at Mount Panorama on Tuesday, October 3.
There will be giveaways at each of the roadshow locations, including tickets to this year’s Repco Bathurst 1000.
Various Supercars drivers will attend the events as well, with 2023 Brad Jones Racing drivers and co-drivers to be joined by Albury’s born and bred 2017 Bathurst 1000 King of the Mountain David Reynolds.
TROPHY TOUR: The Bathurst 1000’s Peter Brock Trophy will tour Albury today.
with the new PlayHQ system, which will take the place of the longstanding MyCricket
format going forward.
During the months since the grand finals, clubs have
been attending seminars, online tutorials and workshops to properly establish their organisation on the system, which is now mandatory for all cricket competitions across Australia.
Kelly said there had been some headaches in transitioning to the new format, but everything should be in place for the start of the season in October.
“NSW and Queensland used it last year and apparently they’ve ironed out some of the bugs,” he said.
“Umpires and officials have got a completely different website which makes it a lot harder because previously it was all incorporated into MyCricket.
“We had to load all the draws onto a separate website.
“When you enter the venues, you used to have WDCA venues, but on PlayHQ you’ve got every venue in Australia that you’ve got to scroll through – it’s a quirky anomaly and a pain.
“I haven’t had a lot of bad feedback from the clubs, I don’t know how their registration process is going.
“I’m sure it’ll be a mad rush on Thursday night before the first game, chasing blokes up on Friday.”
Anyone interested in playing junior or senior cricket this year is encouraged to contact their local club and start the registration process.
For more information on our special discounted subscription rates and to purchase a digital subscription visit wangarattachronicle.com.au and select the subscribe tab.
NED Turner celebrates one of his four goals in Wangaratta Rovers’ preliminary final win over Wangaratta.
See more moments from the clash in snapshots on page 15.
WANGARATTA Rovers under 18’s gun Riley Allan has taken out the Leo Dean Medal at the O&M’s Morris and Toni Wilson Medal night on Monday.
Allan polled 22 votes in his huge win that could be made even sweeter with a victory in Sunday’s grand final as his team takes on Lavington.
The Ovens and Murray representative pipped his Hawks team-mate Will Ashton and Wodonga’s Reuben Bourke by four votes after finishing strongly with three votes in rounds 16 and 18 as Rovers took out the minor premiership.
Allan crossed to the Hawks from Corowa-Rutherglen after the Roos’ went into recess.
“Last year I was at Corowa-
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
Rutherglen but had to move after unfortunate circumstances,” Allan said.
“I’ve enjoyed my time at Wangaratta Rovers, we’ve got a good team and hopefully we can get a win on the weekend.
“It’s been a great year, a great transition and Wendy (Lester), Wally (Pasquali) and Baz (Sullivan) really welcomed me.
“Rovers are a great club, have a great culture and I’m looking forward to the years ahead.
■ Continued page 18