WANGARATTA sweltered through its hottest two consecutive days for almost four years on the weekend. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the city’s maximum temperature on Saturday was 38.8 degrees at 4.36pm, while on Sunday the temperature was 37.5 degrees at 3.30pm. Not since January 24 and 25 of 2021 have we had two consecutive days of such heat, with 39.4 degrees and 41.4 degrees. Wangaratta’s Tully Reynolds (5) and (right)Dusty Minns (4) were among those enjoying the cooling waters of the Ovens River at Sydney Beach on Saturday a ernoon.
TOURISM BOOM
Strong festive visitation expected to continue across rural city throughout holiday season
WANGARATTA and surrounds has seen an in ux of thousands of travellers and tourists over the festive holiday period as families and friends travelled from all around to celebrate together.
Between December 23 and December 31, some 2945 people visited the Rural City of Wangaratta’s visi-
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
tor centres at the Ned Kelly Discover Hub in Glenrowan and kiosk at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Conference Centre. Council’s visitor services
team said visitors where seeking information on local attractions such as wineries, activities for the kids, and a lot of interest in the New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Wangaratta Showgrounds - which attracted a record 10,000 strong crowd. Local caravan parks have been either fully booked or
almost fully booked for the last few weeks as visitors enjoyed the area.
Painters Island Holiday Park managers Kirk Edgar and Deb Daniel said their team had been at out since the jazz festival weekend with no signs of slowing down for the rest of the summer season.
“We’re above our pre Covid levels on all gures, historically we’re trading well above,” Kirk said.
“We are booked out until mid-January, we have 23 cabins and 122 campsites and we have a scattering of bits and pieces le over but the majority of it is booked out, and we are expecting a pick-up at the end of January.
“It’s a 300 metre walk from our park to the CBD and everybody knows that, our guests love it because they don’t need to drive anywhere, they can go have a meal and a bottle of wine and just walk home along the rail trail.
■ Continued page 2
Program to help tackle regions’ homelessness
A NEW Victorian Government funded program will help secure housing for some people experiencing homelessness across the Ovens Murray region this year.
The government is rolling out its new Homes First program, which aims to help more than 500 households.
Backed with $48 million in this year’s Budget, Homes First is also to give people access to programs that help break the cycle of homelessness, with services like mental health, drug and alcohol and financial counselling, and family violence services.
The program is operating in Ovens Murray, Brimbank-Melton, Hume-Merribek, Outer Eastern Melbourne, Goulburn, Inner Gippsland, Loddon and Wimmera South-West.
These areas were chosen due to a need for extra support services for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of sleeping rough.
NUMBERS
Strong visitation expected to continue in rural city throughout holiday season
■ From page 1
“We can hold over 400 people in the park so we pump millions of dollars into the Wangaratta economy and it’s a real bene t for the community.”
For some, a visit to the region is a family tradition.
The Hinds and Meagher family has been staying at Painters Island Holiday Park over the Christmas an New Year’s break for 45 years.
Julie Anne Meagher said the location is quite a sentimental place for her family.
“My son had a plaque made and a tree planted in memory of my parents who started the tradition,” she said.
“We have a group of up to 70 people who gather together to relax, spend time walking to local shops and pubs, head out to the wineries, enjoy the river, play golf and celebrate a few family birthdays.
“The park has seen us through over 40 years of our lives and we really enjoy it here.”
For other holiday-makers, like John Phillips from Mornington Peninsula, it’s their rst time staying at Painters Island Holiday Park.
John and his partner Tomoko Suetani have been spending their time seeing the sights, learning some Ned Kelly history, visiting wineries and shing.
“The reworks on New Year’s Eve was a highlight for my partner and I,” said John.
“We’ll definitely be coming back.”
Valley View Caravan Park owner and manager Susan Remman said the award winning Whit eld facility had also been fully booked from the Christmas week to News Year’s Day.
“It quietens down a little until the 26th but we’re expecting it to pick back up again around that time,” she said.
“This year we have been a bit busier, we have knocked back a lot of people between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
“I went down to Gentle Annie’s this morning and they are also really busy, it’s looking
promising this season.
“We have availabilities in the new year and we’re open to reservations for the rest of the school holiday period.”
Tourism destinations such as Glenrowan have been bustling with visitors.
Kate’s Cottage owner Michelle Coad said it’s been a good season so far.
“Christmas and the holiday period is always a boost for our local economy,” she said.
“We’re expecting consistency this month, it’s always hard to tell but we’re hoping for as good if not better of a season than last year.
“We have had mostly tourists through but it would be nice to see more locals through, it would be great for them to have a look and learn some new things.
“It’s at your back door and not many people take the time to travel and explore within their own locality.”
also reported being
period, with owner
this
hoping for a bigger and better outcome for the rest of the season.
Council’s visitor services team also reported a continuous increases in visitors accessing information via digital channels, with tra c to Visit Wangaratta was up 18 per cent year on year, with online searches up 26 per cent year on the year.
Wangaratta Despatch,
Kelly Country Tours
busy
holiday
Tony King
EXPLORING GLENROWAN: For Murray Wills and Lee Wills from the Northern Territory, the big Ned Kelly statue has been highlight of
LEARNING THE LOCAL HISTORY: Ann Pauletto and Gianni Pauletto (pictured right) from Brown Creek, NSW at Kelly Land in Glenrowan.
SEEING THE SIGHTS: Luca Nicolopoulos, Felicity Nicolopoulos, Blake Nicolopoulos, Brooklyn Brown, Nikita Brown, Anaka Brown and Asher Brown explored Glenrowan on their school holidays.
PHOTO: Samantha Hinds
WAREENA OVAL REDEVELOPMENT IS MOVING ALONG
PROGRESS is continuing on the redevelopment of Wareena Park as 2025 arrives. Last week saw pipes being laid for water main irrigation on the Swan Street oval.
The reconstruction works, being carried out by Gordon Gibson Nominees, include improved drainage and the new automatic irrigation system.
The $1.5 million project will also see new infrastructure developed, including a perimeter fence, AFL posts, a synthetic cricket pitch, coach’s boxes and concrete pads.
Work kicked o in mid-October, and is expected to be completed by April.
Council’s 2024-’25 capital works budget has $1,592,000 allocated to the Wareena Park Oval upgrade, which includes $600,000 of funding through the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Rural city’s residential growth steady last year
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA experienced stable residential growth and sustained development in the commercial sector last year.
Building and planning gures from the Rural City of Wangaratta council indicate steady development throughout the year.
There were spikes in April (16) and August (12) due to the development of multi-lot subdivisions in the municipality, with other months’ building gures - issued by private and council building surveyors -
Building figures for 2024 - issued by private and council building surveyors:
January - 6 residential, 3 commercial;
February - 9 residential, 0 commercial;
March - 4 residential, 2 commercial;
April - 16 residential, 3 commercial;
May - 7 residential, 3 commercial;
June - 4 residential, 3 commercial;
July - 3 residential, 3 commercial;
August - 12 residential, 2 commercial;
September - 6 residential, 1 commercial;
October - 3 residential, 1 commercial;
November - 6 residential, 1 commercial
December - figures unavailable
Planning permit application gures for 2024 included new builds as well
On the commercial/ industrial side of the planning gures, a notable ap-
Community dog walk to offer connection
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club is once again hosting a Sunday morning walk on January 19 at 9am.
The event will be a chance for club members and the community to get outdoors with their pooches, to connect and socialise.
Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club public liaison o cer, Ron Webb, said it’s a great opportunity for dogs and their owners.
“It’s important for dogs to get together, socialise, and there is an element of obedience,” he said.
“All dog owners are encouraged to participate to engage their pets in dog interaction and social behaviour
“It’s also good for the people, there is always an element of human socialisation.”
Participants can meet at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club grounds in the Wangaratta Showgrounds from 8:45am for a 4km walk, returning along the Ovens
River with an opportunity for the dogs to have a swim.
Finishing up at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club by 10am for cold drink, co ee, tea and scones for a gold coin donation.
The club used to host regular dog walks before Covid, attracting between 20 and 40 dogs.
“We thought we would try and run it again, and if it’s successful we will keep doing it,” Ron said.
For more details, contact Ron Webb at 0417 644 877.
Planning permit applications received across the Rural City of Wangaratta:
January - 7 residential, 1 commercial/industrial; February - 7 residential, 4 commercial/industrial; March - 8 residential, 1 commercial/industrial; April - 7 residential, 1 commercial/industrial; May - 5 residential, 2 commercial/industrial; June - 5 residential, 0 commercial/industrial; July - 6 residential, 4 commercial/industrial; August - 6 residential, 2 commercial/industrial; September - 5 residential, 0 commercial/industrial; October - 4 residential, 2 commercial/industrial; November - 4 residential, 1 commercial/industrial; December - figures unavailable.
opment of the Wangaratta Art Gallery, Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, and the Wangaratta Visitor Information Centre, with the aim of creating a connected cultural precinct within central Wangaratta.
Council is actively ex-
ploring funding opportunities to help make its vision a reality.
In addition to the creative precinct, the commercial/industrial gures included planning permits for a number of warehouse developments in the rural city.
Man charged with burglary, criminal damage
A MAN has been charged following an alleged burglary and several incidents of criminal damage in Wangaratta on 1 January.
Police responded to a burglary in process at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Ford Street about 3.50pm.
It is alleged a stolen fire extinguisher was used to punch a hole in a glass door to gain entry to the premises.
Wangaratta night shift officers located a man inside the building and swiftly arrested him. It is alleged the man was in possession of a stolen Apple iPad.
Officers will also allege that numerous windows of surrounding buildings were broken by the same man, including a nearby supermarket on Ovens Street at about 3.10am.
A 20-year-old Castlemaine man was arrested and charged with burglary, criminal damage, theft and going equipped to steal. He was bailed to appear at the Wangaratta Magistrate’s Court on the 3 March.
PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
Chloe Jade on course to play at Tamworth festival
WANGARATTA local, Chloe Jade, is one of the students from as far away as Nashville, New Zealand, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and Western Australia to be selected for The Academy of Country Music Senior Course in Tamworth this month.
The intensive 12-day experience in Australia’s country music capital from today to January 17 leads up to the Tamworth Country Music Festival and gives aspiring artists a chance to hone their skills and form invaluable connections with industry professionals and peers.
Chloe Jade is an indie/folk singer songwriter and guitarist.
Her musical style blends her own unique soulful yet relaxed vibes with hints folk and country.
Showcasing her original songs, evocative lived-in lyrics and rich guitar melodies weave between warm vocals, Chloe has supported well known local and Australian musical acts such as We Mavericks and Katy Steele.
Chloe said she is looking forward to gaining insights and skills from the industry experts as well as networking with like-minded people and taking music to the next level.
“I have new music planned for next year so I’m eager to learn the ropes at the academy from the best in the business,” she said.
“I’m really looking forward to developing friendships there and
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
working with others, particularly connecting with other artists who aren’t from my area.”
Chloe said she is overjoyed to be attending the academy.
“At rst when I found out that I’ve been accepted it was a little surreal, it was a little bit unbelievable at rst,” she said.
“It’s extremely competitive and not only that but to hear that I’ve been chosen for the Mary Dean scholarship.
“It’s a full scholarship which covers my course fees and my accommodation while I’m there so initially, when I was preparing my application, I looked into some grant funding which to secure was gonna be pretty tight with different deadlines, so to hear that I’d actually been chosen as a deserving recipient for the scholarship is a wonderful feeling.”
Students from the course will perform at a graduation concert on January 16 just before the opening of the festival at Moonshiners and at a group performance at the opening of Tamworth Country Music Festival on January 17.
To follow Chloe Jade’s journey, follow her on social media at @ chloejade.music or visit https:// www.chloejademusic.com/.
Businesses support mental health first aid offer
ALMOST 30 local businesses have applied to take up the available places in a mental health first aid scholarship program being overseen by Project 365 and the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program. Applications closed on December 20, with the 27 submissions received coming from businesses across a diverse range of industries in the Rural City of Wangaratta.
The fully-funded training equips staff with the skills to recognise and respond to mental health challenges, aiming to reduce stigma and absenteeism, and improve morale.
Bek Nash-Webster, Grit and Resilience Program coordinator, said the applications highlighted the community’s shared commitment to fostering mentally healthy workplaces, and thanked locals for their support. She said the selection panel would convene in the New Year, and looked forward to announcing the successful recipients of this valuable opportunity.
Ms Nash-Webster thanked the community for helping to make the initiative a success.
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY: Local musician Chloe Jade has been selected for an intensive music course in Tamworth.
PHOTO: Rod Jewell
Private cattle sales bolster yard activity
with $66.59m worth of stock sold in 2024
CATTLE throughput in 2024 was the highest it’s been in several years at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange with 54,733 head sold for $66,598,786.
Some 12,657 more head were processed through the yards compared to 2023, raking in an extra $11,788,786 for producers.
Broken down throughput for 2024 included 12,272 prime cattle, 11,229 privately weighed, and 30,816 store cattle.
The turnover for prime cattle in 2024 was $16.73m, privately weighed was $16.92m, and store cattle $32.32m.
Average prices per head were prime cattle $2.63/kg, private weighed $3.26/kg, and store $3.23/kg.
Exchange general manager Warwick Benton said the main di erence on last year was the private sales of cattle going direct to feedlots.
“Producers were getting good money with those cattle going direct to feedlots and the prime and store gures remained steady,” he said
“JBS has been a good supporter of the Wangaratta saleyards and they have diverted a lot of cattle out of
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
the Southern Riverina and North East Victoria to go into Wangaratta to get weighed.
“Transport companies will then take them to feedlots like Hopkins River and other companies which are good supporters of the Wangaratta saleyards.
“All the vendors know their price before they go in there and they can gauge their decision to sell of that.”
Mr Benton said the higher volume trend of feeder cattle selling privately is expected to continue
He said the lighter cattle are still going through the store weaner sales, but vendors who have grown them out to feeder steers are going direct.
Prices have come back during 2024 but the average price of $2.63/kg is more a re ection of the cows being sold through the system that brought the average price down.
In 2025, large numbers are expected through the weaner sales to start o the year with about 16,000 head across four sale days.
Ellie received youth award for service to hockey club
ROTARY Club of Appin Park Wangaratta has awarded its annual John Guilfoyle Community Youth Award for 2024 to Ellie Samson.
Ellie, who completed year 11 at Cathedral College in 2024, was nominated by Wangaratta Hockey Club, where she is an active junior coach and works with young hockey players and around the club assisting with training and twilight hockey.
She is also a senior level hockey player with the club.
Ellie will also be taking up further studies through her scholarship to Southern Sports Academy in Wagga NSW under their hockey program.
The award was presented on behalf of the Wangaratta Club and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta by the son of John Guilfoyle, Ian Guilfoyle, at Rotary’s presentation night last month.
Meanwhile, the club’s
Wangaratta Livestock Exchange figures
2020: 23,948 head sold for $30,199,142
2021: 36,468 head sold for $65,792,277
2022: 45,172 head sold for $90,280,340
2023: 42,076 head sold for $54,810,000
2024: 54,733 head sold for $66,598,786
short term Rotary Youth Exchange participant, Audrey Proft, arrived in Verona, Italy in mid December, where she will spend six weeks living with the family of Guilia Zancanaro, who spent six weeks with Audrey’s family last July.
Audrey, who is studying year 12 at Galen College this year, will celebrate her 18th birthday in Italy before heading back home to Wangaratta on January 26.
With the higher throughput, it means more revenue for the livestock exchange and Mr Benton said in the last six months they’ve been able to upgrade the weight bridge, scanners and catwalk over the pens as a result.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s three-month forecast puts North East Victoria at a 75 per cent chance of 100200mm in rainfall from January to March.
About 100mm in early December boosted the outlook for producers but Mr Benton said it could go the other way again, with La Nina predicted by the bureau to go neutral between March to May.
Corcoran and Parker and Elders will hold an Angus sale this Wednesday, January 8, with 4500 head expected, and the coloured sale this Friday, January 10 will see about 3500 to go under the hammer.
There will be two blue ribbon sales, at the end of January and in February, with 4000-plus head expected at each.
Corcoran and Parker will have a stand-alone sale on Friday, January 31, with Nutrien, Elders and AWN to hold theirs on Wednesday, February 5.
Owners of stolen tools sought by police
DETECTIVES from Wangaratta’s Criminal Investigation Unit are still searching for the owners of a large number of stolen power tools, hand tools and equipments that was recoved last year.
The tools were seized when detectives for Wangaratta and Cobram executed a search warrant at an address in Par tt Road, Wangaratta on August 2024.
All the items recovered are believed to
have been stolen from multiple locations throughout the Wangaratta and Yarrawonga areas between May and August 2024.
Detectives said there are still a large number of items still to be returned to owners.
Anyone who had tools stolen around this time is asked to contact Cobram Crime Investigation Unit on 5871 1977 and quote the following reference number 202408-E-1965.
We regret to advise that our WASP, Wangara a Area Suicide Prevention International Trivia Night, which was to have been held on Saturday January 4th 2025, has been postponed.
There has been lots of interest in this evening so please keep an eye out on our advertising. We hope to be able to announce our new date soon.
We are so grateful to the following businesses who have already provided generous donations and in kind support for the evening. All donated items will be held over and used for our rescheduled Trivia Night.
Travel Managers | Sarah Nunn, Bluestone Ridge, Sluga Gallery, M&M X-Treme, Parklane Nursery, BFT Wangaratta, Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre, Westend Cycles, La Bella Rocca Fruit, Rock & Road Cycles, Prouds Jewellers, Your Everyday Gourmet, Repco Auto Parts Wangaratta, Adventure Camping & Fishing, Bi-Rite Home Appliances Wangaratta, Harvey Norman Wangaratta, Bridge Street Painters Benalla, Londrigan Beef and Lamb, Spirited Party Shop, Gabby Simmonds Jewellery, Flynn's of Wangaratta, David Roberts Jeweller, Edgars Books & News, Flynn's Inland Surf Co., Aussie Disposals, Wangaratta Trophies & Engravers, House Of Tanti Glenrowan, Donna Bella Lingerie, Bunnings Wangaratta, Helen Haines, Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway, Moyhu Hotel, Wark Cottage Chiltern, Edge FM, Da Vinci Social Club, Wangaratta Saw & Lawnmower Service, Wangaratta Bearings & Industrial Supplies, WB Hunter Rural Wangaratta, Niko's Butchery Wangaratta, Sam Miranda, Pfeiffer Wines, Total Outdoor Media and Share Media Advertising Group
BIG YEAR: Some 54,733 head of cattle were sold through the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange, making $66.59 million in 2024.
Ian Guilfoyle and Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta secretary Bev Maher.
Able to potentially provide gift of life
WITH the start of 2025, many of us will no doubt have set ourselves a new year resolution or two.
Weight loss, fitness, perhaps greater fiscal responsibility, doing more for others as well as oneself.
There are countless things that could be on the wish list, all of which will require varying levels of focus, commitment and resolve to achieve.
But what about potentially saving a life?
We’re not suggesting pursuing a career change, although there will be some who may be doing exactly that.
How about considering some volunteer service, joining the local CFA or SES, helping these dynamic emergency services continue to respond to our communities in their greatest times of need.
If that’s a bit too much, why not become a blood donor.
As we’ve reported in recent weeks, tens of thousands of more donors are needed in Australia this year to help meet the growing daily demand - often a case of life and death.
Then there is also the question of organ donation.
If many more of us registered there could be many more lives saved.
Or how about learning CPR, or merely familiarising yourself with where publicly accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are in the community.
As we’re reporting in this edition, bystander intervention using AED’s is helping save more lives, with atleast two people saved in rural city last year.
If that all sounds too overwhelming, how about a donation to a local charity to help them assist those in greatest need.
We can all make 2025 a better year for someone other than ourselves.
The Quiz No. 116
1. What are the two colours on the ag of Sweden?
2. Which country won the inaugural ICC World Twenty20, contested in South Africa in 2007?
3. By what name is Carlos Irwin Estévez best known?
4. In Christianity, what title is given to the female superior of a community of nuns?
5. Released in 2016, Glory is the ninth studio album by which singer?
6. Which major bone is between the elbow and shoulder?
7. Nobel’s Blasting Powder was the original name of which invention?
8. John Elliott was the president of which VFL/ AFL club from 1983 to 2002?
9. In 2009, who became the rst recipient of the Victoria Cross for Australia?
10. What is the largest borough, in area, of New York City?
11. Which sportsman wrote the 2008 autobiography, Line and Strength?
12. William Dampier, the famous explorer, was born in which country?
13. Who played the role of Sonny Hammond in the classic 60s TV series, Skippy?
14. In which Australian city is the headquarters of Tabcorp Holdings?
15. Who won the rst Academy Award for Best Actor?
16. In what decade was the National Gallery of Australia of cially opened?
17. What were the character names of the two hosts on the Triple J radio show, This Sporting Life?
18. In carpentry, MDF stands for what?
19. James Packer was married to which person from 2007 to 2013?
20. The movie, Out of Africa, was mainly set in which country?
FACEBOOK users this week commented on crowds of over 10,000 people gathering at the Wangaratta Showgrounds to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
• Wendy Mcquade
Pyle: An amazing family night Scott and Amanda amazing entertainment congratulations to all who organised
• Vezz Davern: Was an amazing night, the free kids entertainment was a massive bonus. Could have listened
to Scott and Amanda all night they were absolutely amazing, black sorrows not so much. Fireworks 10/10 well done Wangaratta council
• Janet Heath: A terrific family night out
• Diane Anderson: It was amazing Facebook users this week also commented on Moyhu CFA working to raise $50,000 to help fund a much-needed new tanker.
• Bobby Boss: Absolutely disgusting, why should
Police focus on crimes in rural areas
THE Victoria Police Farm Crime Coordination Unit is dedicated to addressing crimes that a ect rural communities, including livestock the , fuel and machinery the , tool the , and illegal hunting or shooting.
Our primary focus is on crime prevention and enhancing safety and security on farms.
Last year we witnessed far too many incidents resulting in the loss of animals, vehicles and equipment.
Of particular concern was rearm the , which poses a serious threat to public safety when these weapons fall into the wrong hands.
To help protect farms, we recommend the following simple but e ective steps:
• Locking gates, sheds and machinery and securing tools.
• Counting and checking stock regularly.
• Installing security signage, simple CCTV and other tech that identi es illegal entry to property.
• Working with neighbours to identify and report suspicious activity around farms
If you are a rearm owner, please consider safe storage of rearms, the location of your safe, and the location of tools, including cordless equipment, that could assist an o ender gaining entry.
During the busy summer months, increased activity on farms for hay cutting, cropping, and stock transportation heightens the risk of accidents involving machinery or vehicles, as well as the potential for res.
While accidents can happen, the serious injuries or fatalities that may result o en lead us to re ect on what could have been done di erently.
Landholders should take the time to plan activities carefully and prioritise safety for themselves, family, and workers.
Victoria Police and more speci cally farm crime liaison o cers, can be located by visiting www.police.vic.gov.au
In an emergency, always call 000 and anyone with any information about crimes can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a con dential crime report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Inspector Paul Hargreaves, Victoria Police Farm Crime Coordination Unit
Getting results for Indi electorate in 2024
FROM leading legislative reforms in Parliament, advocating for community organisations and delivering funding for critical projects, 2024 was another year of working together to
NOTE: Comments as they appear
fundraising have to pay for new fire equipment. It’s the government job to provide equipment for all Victoria… Typical Labor government…
• Leslie Matthews: Bobby Boss Can’t recall the LNP every fully funding the CFA but you might know better?
Facebook users this week commented on a wine body supporting calls for better gateway signage at King Valley to accompany abstract sculpture ‘Bubbles in the landscape’.
• Gustov Balart: If the ‘wine body’ would like better, maybe the ‘wine body’ should put it’s hands in it’s pocket and not expect ratepayers to have to cover the cost for THEIR advertising...
• Kim Westcott: I thought the brief for this commission was to create horizontal work that echoed the surrounding landscape.
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
15,113
accomplish important outcomes.
In the community, I travelled thousands of kilometres, from Kinglake to Corryong, hosting dozens of mobile o ces and community events on issues like scam protection and regional childcare access.
My o ce assisted and advocated for thousands of constituents with issues such as the NDIS, accessing grant funding and immigration.
Throughout the year, I proudly supported funding applications across Indi.
This funding included bids to refurbish or upgrade facilities or expand operations, with funding boosts achieved including:
• $4.4 million to upgrade infrastructure at sporting clubs;
• $1.3 million to support new housing developments in Wodonga and Alexandra;
• $2.9 million to Benalla Art Gallery;
• $7.7 million for the Mans eld Historic Railway Precinct upgrade; and
• $7.3 million for the Flying Fruit Fly Circus School.
In Parliament I held the major parties accountable, introducing legislation to end pork barrelling and to dedicate housing funding to rural and regional Australia.
I also negotiated stronger government legislation on energy and education.
Re ecting on some of this work in recent days, I’m always reminded of what we can achieve by working together.
Both my Wangaratta and Wodonga o ces have reopened today (January 6).
Dr Helen Haines, Independent federal MP for Indi
All of Victoria now in Fire Danger Period
FIRE restrictions are now in place across Victoria.
While CFA is ready to respond and support communities this bush re season, we’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing res.
We can’t get a re truck into every driveway so we are asking Victorians to know their re risk, plan ahead and make sure they are doing their part to keep each other safe.
Monitor re danger ratings daily via the VicEmergency App and CFA website and know what your plan is should a re event arise.
To nd out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. Jason He ernan, CFA Chief O cer
WE welcome your letters to the Editor.
Wangaratta 3677
North East Aurora Hunters group member Eryn Lee captured the first Auroa Australis for 2025 at the Wangaratta Airport around midnight on January 1. The beams of coloured light were able to be seen with the naked eye.
Lizzy’s drive assists Fijian family, earns Zonta award
By SIMONE KERWIN
DRIVING a fundraiser to support a Fijian family who needed money to repair their home led to Wangaratta High School student Lizzy McNair receiving an award from the local Zonta Club at the end of the 2024 school year.
Lizzy, a year nine student, conducted the fundraiser as her Community Leadership Challenge (CLC) project with her friend Emma Williams.
Janine Atkinson, a former Wangaratta High School student who now teaches
in a small community in Fiji, reached out to the CLC students for help in supporting a single mother and her family living in a severely run-down house. The family urgently needed funds to purchase building materials to make their home safer and more secure.
Lizzy took the initiative to rally her friends and lead a fundraising e ort for the family.
She successfully organised a ra e to raise the necessary funds, and reached out to several generous businesses in Wangaratta
which donated prizes.
In addition, Lizzy coordinated a barbecue at Coles supermarket and arranged for other local businesses to assist with ticket sales.
Through her leadership and dedication, Lizzy played a key role in engaging the community to support the cause.
She was touched by the way so many people were willing to donate and support her project, which raised $330 to help the family rebuild.
As further support for her e orts, Lizzy received the Anne Bell Zonta Memorial
Bystander intervention sees cardiac arrest survival rates triple
INCREASED bystander intervention means we are more likely to survive a cardiac arrest compared to 20 years ago, according to new research.
A study, supported by Ambulance Victoria (AV), found Victorians who experienced a bystander-witnessed initial shockable out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in 202122 were three times more likely to pull through than two decades ago.
The Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry (VACAR) was used to assess more than 102,000 OHCA cases attended by emergency medical services in Victoria between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2022.
The gures showed in 2022, Victorians were 4.5 times more likely to receive bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) compared to 2003.
Rates of bystander de brillation from publicly accessible automated external de brillators (AEDs) also increased 22-fold during this time.
AV director research and evaluation, Dr Ziad Nehme, said the data re ected a positive change in bystander intervention.
“Sudden cardiac arrest is a major public health challenge so it’s great we’re seeing more people willing to jump in and help,” he said.
“We know survival a er out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depends on the chain of survival and quick bystander intervention.
“This is why boosting the responsiveness of community
BY JORDAN DUURSMA
jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
members to these events is critical.”
The study is one of the rst to examine long term trends in 12-month patient outcomes.
Since 2011, annual followup interviews with OHCA patients are completed to assess their health-related quality of life and functional recovery.
Among the 4452 adults discharged from hospital alive during 1 January 2010 – 30 June 2022, 93.3 per cent were alive at 12 months.
Of those who responded to the follow-up enquiry, 85.3 per cent had Glasgow Outcome Scale–Extended scores, indicating good recovery or moderate disability, and 38.5 per cent reported full health.
Award, named a er a longserving teacher at the high school who was also a Zonta member; Anne passed away in 2020, and the club named the award to honour her memory.
It goes to a female student who has been instrumental in a project at her school, and the prize carries funding to assist the project, as well as a certi cate for the student.
“I love helping people and giving back to the community, and this was a way to do that,” Lizzy said.
“I de nitely want to do more like this in the future.”
Dr Nehme said the improved survival rates further supported paramedics’ call for Victorians to be familiar with Call, Push, Shock.
“Victoria has one of the best cardiac arrest survival rates in the world, but we can continue to improve those rates by increasing education,” he said.
“Anyone who witnesses a cardiac arrest should call triple zero (000), start chest compressions and, if there’s one nearby, grab a de brillator and apply shocks as prompted before paramedics arrive.
“In three simple steps you may not only save the patient’s life but improve their quality of life long a er the event.”
O’Brien and David O’Brien were calling for an accessible AED in their community in June 2024. According to Ambulance Victoria’s AED registry on January 1, 20225, the closest AED is at the Whitfield garage.
IN 2024, the Wangaratta Chronicle reported on two local incidents where an AED and CPR were used to resuscitate people having a heart attack.
The immediate response by family and community members, and easy access to a public AED, was the di erence between life and death for 31 year old Michael Stirling, a er he su ered a heart attack at the Glenrowan Vintage Café in June.
Public members were able to perform CPR and use an AED, located centrally on the external wall of the Glenrowan Bakery, to revive Michael prior to ambulance MICA and paramedics responding, and getting him airli ed by helicopter to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Michael’s Mum Pam said her son wouldn’t be here without the community response and availability of the AED.
Pam shared her family’s story to help raise awareness of how AED’s can save lives and the need for all rural communities to have them.
In November, the actions of two local nurses and a piece of life-saving equipment made a world of di erence to attendees at a dog show at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club when an AED was used to resuscitate an attendee a er they collapsed with a medical condition.
The two nurses’ quick thinking helped give the patient a ghting chance until an ambulance arrived and paramedics took over.
AED LOCATIONS IN RURAL CITY
Rural communities in the Rural City of Wangaratta with AED’s include: Oxley (Oxley Hall); Milawa (Brown Brothers Wine Group); Greta (Flanigan Contracting Greta South); Moyhu (Moyhu Bowls Club, Moyhu Fire Station); Whitfield (Whitfield garage, Gentle Annie Caravan Park); Everton (Everton Community Hall); Peechleba (Peechleba Bushland Reserve committee); Killawarra (private residence, 193 Frosts Road); Boorhaman (Boorhaman Recreation Reserve, Boorhaman Golf Club); Whorouly (Whorouly Hotel); and Bowman’s Forest (Jade Quality Kiwi).
AED’s listed locations in Wangaratta are: PRIVATE RESIDENCE, 35 WHITE STREET; COLES SUPERMARKET; APCO SERVICE STATION; RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA WORKS DEPOT; WANGARATTA LAWN TENNIS CLUB; GOTAFE WANGARATTA CAMPUS (Docker St); CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE SANDHURST; WANGARATTA PERFORMING ARTS & CONVENTION CENTRE; VICROADS; DAN MURPHYS; RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA; BIG W; WOOLWORTHS SUPERMARKET; THE CENTRE FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION INC; WANGARATTA CLUB; WANGARATTA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE; EPA VICTORIA; VICTORIAN ABORIGINAL CHILD CARE AGENCY; TYREMAX AUSTRALIA PTY LTD; GOULBURN MURRAY WATER; AVK WANG PTY LTD; ADAMS DRILLERS; WANGARATTA INDOOR SPORTS AND AQUATIC CENTRE; WANGARATTA BOWLS AND SPORTS CLUB; WANGARATTA LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE; WANGARATTA MENS SHED; WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB.
Club of Wangaratta.
PHOTO: Anita McPherson
April
Wednesday, April 3
Fast-track farce
LOCAL state and federal MPs and Wangaratta mayor Dean Rees have slammed the State Government for changes to Victorians’ right to appeal renewable energy projects under Labor’s new fast-track laws. Under the change, which came into effect on April 1, appeals against a planning minister’s approval can only be made to the Supreme Court on a point of law.
Friday, April 5
Housing boost
HOUSING relief is in sight for Wangaratta with the State Government committing to partial financial support for a $50 million, 250 home affordable housing development at the former Ovens College site on Greta Road.
It will positively address a portion of the waiting list with current figures showing more than 1000 social housing applicants in the local area.
Monday, April 8
Health review
FUTURE changes could be a foot for Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) as part of a review of all the state’s public health services.
Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas was quizzed about potential changes across the sector while visiting Albury hospital’s new Emergency Department last week.
Wednesday, April 10
Bold $20b plea
HOMELESSNESS should be a priority for the State Government as it prepares its 2024-’25 budget over coming weeks, according to a local community housing organisation.
Celia Adams, chief executive officer of Beyond Housing which works within the Goulburn and Ovens Murray regions, said a budget submission from the Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) presented a roadmap to address the immediate social housing crisis - and to invest in a strategy to end homelessness in Victoria.
Friday, April 12
Wheels in motion
A GREENFIELD cycling facility in Wangaratta would not only cater for
year in review
Dog Show
FUN FOR FURRY FRIENDS: Alex Cogell and ‘Jagger’ were pictured yesterday warming up for Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club’s championship show.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
the city’s cycling club, but could have a significant impact on visitor numbers to the district, according to Wangaratta Cycling Club president Paul Somerville.
Mr Somerville said the club had plans to establish a new base close to the Wangaratta Saleyards, and was hopeful of seeing progress in coming years.
Monday, April 15
Growth spurt
PROPOSED new residential growth has taken its first steps in Wangaratta’s south with a multi-lot subdivision up for community consultation.
A combined planning scheme amendment and 233-lot subdivision of residential land near Targoora Park and Clarkes Lane on Wangaratta-Whitfield Road has been submitted as an application through council as a part of the Wangaratta Planning Scheme.
Wednesday, April 17
Love for library
WANGARATTA community members have added their voices to Victoria-wide concerns over the possibility of funding cuts to public libraries in the forthcoming State Government budget.
Members of the Wangaratta Friends of the Library Action Group met with Wangaratta state MP Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) at the Docker Street library on Thursday, where they discussed the potential funding issue, which has been flagged by Public Libraries Victoria.
Friday, April 19
Justice denied
A COMMUNITY legal service says it has had to turn away almost as many people as it has been able to help in Wangaratta and the North East because of chronic government underfunding and uncertainty.
Hume Riverina Community Legal Service is calling on the Federal Government to address what is says is a national funding crisis affecting the community legal sector and invest in justice for regional communities.
Monday, April 22
7-Eleven chance
RURAL City of Wangaratta councillors’ rejection of a proposed 7-Eleven service station and convenience store in Ryley Street is headed to a state tribunal. The national service station and
Back to School
LEND A HELPING HAND: Rhonda and Peter Lewis from The Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps are calling for the community to volunteer in the 60th Red Shield Appeal. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
convenience store chain confirmed with the Wangaratta Chronicle that it will go to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) and appeal council’s refusal to grant a notice of decision on the grounds of zoning and planning requirements.
Wednesday, April 24
Dial in to phone issue
WANGARATTA High School executive principal Dave Armstrong believes the wider community is the “missing link” in safeguarding young people from excessive use of devices and social media apps.
Admitting to grappling with the issue both as an educator and a parent, Mr Armstrong said while there were definite benefits to emerge from the technology, smartphones posed a significant distraction for teenagers, and this was being regularly noticed at school.
Friday, April 26
Budget hopes
THE 2024-25 state and federal budgets will be watched with a keen eye as the Rural City of Wangaratta sets its sights on maintaining service delivery in a difficult economic climate.
As the inflation rate rose a full per cent to $3.6pc on Wednesday, the cost of goods and services remains high and doesn’t look like easing soon.
Monday, April 29
At crisis point
TWO Wangaratta-based advocacy bodies committed to ending violence against women and children are backing a call for national crisis talks into the devastating rates of murdered and missing women.
Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner Micaela Cronin said the rates of women dying as a result of family violence – women who are murdered, missing, or dying as a result of suicide – in this country is a crisis, and requires urgent, national attention.
May
Wednesday, May 1
Home for all
sleeping rough in the city.
The Affordable Housing Strategy that went before councillors at Tuesday night’s meeting and is being released for public comment, contains a series of aims, principles and actions into how council can proactively work with government and partners to bolster housing options.
Friday, May 3
Taking a stand
IN sport, there are more important things than end results or ladder position.
This weekend, the North Wangaratta Football Netball Club and Milawa Football Netball Club will come together with the Centre Against Violence and stand side by side, and say no more to family violence in our country and society.
Monday, May 6
A
fight for agriculture
A SPECIAL motion at Wangaratta council, based on the State Government’s fast-tracking of solar facilities, has caused a stir between councillors.
Debate centred around the preservation of agricultural land against the adhoc positioning of renewable energy facilities and about reinstating the democratic right of people to appeal planning decisions on these facilities at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Wednesday, May 8
No frills budget
RATEPAYERS can expect a general rate rise, and waste charges hike, both by 2.75 per cent, under a draft 2024-25 budget publicly revealed at Wangaratta council on Monday night.
The general rate revenue of $32.27 million is in line with the Victorian Fair Go Rate Cap and it was noted that amounts have not kept up with inflation for the past four years, placing increasing financial pressure on the Local Government sector.
city’s major public school.
WHS executive principal Dave Armstrong received confirmation that the school, which more than 600 students, remains fully funded to have stage one of its masterplan designed and documented, but the money for the actual building works will not be funded yet.
Monday, May 13
Housing hope
HOPES remain high that tomorrow’s Federal Budget will secure key funding towards the $50 million social housing redevelopment of the former Ovens College site in Wangaratta.
Independent federal MP for Indi, Helen Haines, made her way back from Wangaratta to Canberra over the weekend in anticipation for the budget announcement tomorrow evening, which she hoped would address key needs across the region.
Wednesday, May 15
Getting in early
AN early intervention model aimed at easing the path to secondary education for disengaged young people has been devised by two local groups - now it just needs $2.5 million in funding to bring it to fruition.
The model was prepared by Genevieve O’Reilly, outgoing Borinya Wangaratta Community Partnership principal, and North East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY) chief executive officer Leah Waring, in response to a growing call for a supported transitional pathway for identified grade five and six students from across the North East.
Friday, May 17
$11.6m sewer fix to boost housing
Friday, May 10
Budget
blow
WANGARATTA council has unveiled a new draft strategy to increase affordable housing and work towards ending homelessness and people
WANGARATTA High School will again have to wait for its promised $11.7 million for classroom modification upgrades, with the 2024/25 State Budget overlooking the
THE limit on housing development will open in Wangaratta’s growth corridors, with North East Water (NEW) investing $11.6 million on infrastructure in 2024-25 to alleviate the city’s sewerage capacity woes. Housing development in Wangaratta has slowed in recent years due to sewage capacity issues and the funding injection will provide vital infrastructure for potential new housing on 1670 vacant lots in the city’s northwest and 615 lots in the south.
Aurora Australis
year in review
Monday, May 20
Nuclear power push
NUCLEAR energy development in Australia will be discussed at a ‘Clean Energy’ community forum the Liberal Party North East branch is organising in Wangaratta tomorrow night.
Liberal leader Peter Dutton’s budget response last week put nuclear energy back in public focus, with his party reaffirming its ongoing investigation into the ‘polarising’ energy option as a way to firm up power supply shortfalls.
Wednesday, May 22
Waiting game
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club
members’ wait for a new home is set to continue, after the Rural City of Wangaratta missed out on a hoped-for $4 million Federal Government boost.
Club president Michael Chambeyron said he was “not surprised, but disappointed” that council’s application for Growing Regions Program cash was unsuccessful.
Friday, May 24
Viper strikes
A 43-year-old Wangaratta man has been charged with drug related offences following the execution of a search warrant by Victoria Police’s VIPER taskforce on Tuesday.
A Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) compliance search was conducted and during the search of the Wangaratta property, police located and seized various quantities of 1,4-Butanediol and methylamphetamine and a small quantity of cash.
Monday, May 27
Online gambling scourge
INCREASES in online gambling across the nation has Australia ranked third highest in the world with 2024 revenue forecast at $10.14 billion, only behind the USA and UK.
The harms can become far greater than the financial hurt, with the fallout from addiction impacting users of online gambling products but also their social network including family, friends and work colleagues.
Wednesday, May 29
Revival on song
THIRTEEN venues have been secured, along with more than $40,000 in crowd-funded donations, to bolster
plans for this year’s revival of the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
The festival is preparing for its 34th year with a fresh look, after a series of public interest meetings which began in late 2023 breathed new life into the annual Wangaratta event.
Friday, May 31
River of despair
LANDHOLDERS along the King River from Cheshunt to Moyhu are calling for urgent action to be taken to address significant flood damage which they say is impacting properties and affecting the long-term health of the waterway.
The property owners have identified numerous sites of concern along the King River, where they say repeated flood events and a lack of maintenance has led to debris blockages, sediment islands, erosion of prime agricultural land and loss of riparian habitat, while destroying infrastructure put in place decades ago to prevent the damage from happening.
June
Monday, June 3
Fast-track development
NEW housing estates in Wangaratta could be finished faster under a ‘worksin-kind’ policy that effectively allows contractors hired by developers to complete associated works rather than council enlisting tenders to finish the job.
An example is Christensen Lane, a project where Wangaratta council CEO Brendan McGrath has approved a procurement exemption to facilitate the upgrade of a section of the road by developers.
Wednesday, June 5
Tech school push
GOTAFE Wangaratta is the proposed site for the city’s new tech school, on track to be operational on the campus’ Cusack Street side by the end of 2026.
Victorian Minister for Education Ben Carroll announced the proposed site for regional science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education yesterday.
Friday, June 7
Battle for Indi
INDI incumbent federal MP Helen Haines has confirmed she will run again as an independent candidate, seeking
Back to School
to be re-elected for a third term, at the federal election next year.
She will be up against one of three Liberal nominees who are vying for preselection by Indi party members later this month, as well as an assortment of other candidates.
Monday, June 10
Power talks
STATE Government department VicGrid will be visiting Wangaratta tomorrow to discuss its Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Community Benefits Plan with the local community.
The plan recognises the important role rural and regional communities are playing in the renewable energy transition by providing direct investment in projects that improve energy reliability and affordability for local communities.
Wednesday, June 12
Power probe
AN investigation into the feasibility of a neighbourhood battery that would store at least 50kW/100kWh of power in Wangaratta is due to be completed in August.
With 25 batteries already funded, projects delivered by the State Government’s $42 million 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program will improve local energy network reliability and remove constraints – helping to reduce the incidence of power outages
PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner
and allowing for more households to take-up rooftop solar.
Friday, June 14
A bridge too far
THE Green Street bridge works have been delayed by up to six months due to unforeseen problems in the construction phase.
An initial estimated timeframe of six months was given when works on the bridge began on January 8 this year, however, Inland Rail has advised that due to excessive groundwater at the build site, construction schematics had to change and new equipment had to be used.
Monday, June 17
It’s a lifesaver
A GLENROWAN family is encouraging all small country communities to have publicly accessible defibrillators after their son’s life was saved following a heart attack last Thursday morning.
Michael Stirling, aged 31, slumped to the ground unconscious at the Glenrowan Vintage Cafe around 9am, with his Mum Pam, Dad Simon and local residents immediately coming to his aid.
Wednesday, June 19
Look after CFA
A LACK of detail in the 2024-25 Victorian Budget concerning how much of a $186 million increase in the fire
services property levy will be distributed to the Country Fire Authority (CFA) has been criticised by CFA District 23 president Garry Nash.
Ratepayers will see the increase in the levy on their municipal rates notice from July 1.
Friday, June 21
Ills and chills
LOCAL health authorities are urging the community to maintain healthy practices as the seasonal upswing in respiratory illness hits full swing.
Amid freezing winter weather - down to -4.3 degrees this week - Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) has observed sustained periods of high demand due to respiratory illnesses among the community and has urged people to take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.
Monday, June 24
Local police catch freeway rebels in major operation
POLICE detected 40 total offences in the Wangaratta area during a major road safety operation on the Hume Freeway last week. Operation Hamilton saw police highly visible along one of the state’s busiest arteries from Monday, June 17 to Thursday, June 20.
Wednesday, June 26
Split verdict
GREG Lynn has been found guilty of murdering Wonnangatta Valley camper Carol Clay, but not guilty of murdering Russell Hill.
The 12-person jury laid down their split verdict on Tuesday afternoon after a five-week trial and just over a week of deliberations.
Friday, June 28
Free stage for all
A $52,000 Federal Government grant will support a free daytime outdoor stage at this year’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
To be set around the Wangaratta Club in Victoria Parade, the jazz quarter and community precinct project will feature the outdoor stage, as well as an immersive art installation inviting people to share their stories about the festival. July, August, September Year In Review in Wednesday edition
BRIDGE VOID: A train about to pass through the lowered section of track where the Green Street bridge will eventually be constructed.
DAZZLING LIGHTS IN THE NIGHT SKY: Hues of pink, green and blue lit up the southward sky last weekend in a phenomenon not seen in decades. Wangaratta photographer Alison Ward captured the dazzling aurora Australis, also known as the southern lights, over Winton Wetlands.
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: Wangaratta High School year nine students Noah Graham, Jay Atkinson and Cheyenne Stow prepare mini pizzas for sale in the pop-up canteen which has been operating at Appin Park Primary School in recent weeks.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Civic service into the future
■ FUTURE PROOFING: The updated Honda Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving.
By DEREK OGDEN, MARQUE MOTORING
WITH a heritage of more than half a century there is lots that can be said about the Honda Civic.
No navel gazing here, though.
Far from dreamy reminiscences about its-once popular product, the maker says the company is looking strictly to the future with the updated model as a bridge to total electrification of its vehicles.
The entry-level petrol engine has been given the shove, with the new Civic e:HEV L hybrid filling the position, while the e:HEV LX variant is still available.
Performance buyers have not been left behind, with the Civic Type R turbo, sans hybrid assistance, still ‘on the grid’.
The e:HEV system combines a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine mated with two electric motors, one that drives the front wheels and the second acting as a generator to charge the high-voltage battery.
Advanced in-car technology updates – including Honda Sensing and next generation Honda Connect with Google built-in – have been added across the range.
Prices start at $49,900, plus onroad costs, for the entry-level e:HEV L and top out at $55,900 for the e:HEV LX.
As with all Hondas, these prices are non-negotiable.
Every Civic comes standard with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year Premium Roadside Assist, five $199 services and three-year Honda Connect subscription.
STYLING
Back in the day the Civic – as a two-door fast-back sedan and later as a three-door hatchback – was to become one of the all-time best-
selling automobiles in the world, with more than 28 million units sold since 1972.
While the MY25 version looks like a sedan in profile, the Civic is a lift-back with a low-profile roof line that makes it look less like an upright hatch.
Enhanced sportiness is the theme here, with a redesigned front bumper and body-coloured headlamp garnishes combining to present a more powerful front.
New 18-inch alloy wheels suggest advanced athleticism.
INTERIOR
Space inside is abundant.
Headroom up front is good and heated seats and dual-zone climate control are joined by a heated steering wheel.
Storage is not so good, with a pair of cupholders and a small wireless charge tray.
A lidded console o ers more storage, and front doors have bottle holders.
The leg room out back is generous, and seats include a folddown armrest, a pair of USB-C ports and air vents.
Boot space of 409 litres with rear seat backs up rear seatbacks up is accessed by a manual liftback which can be awkward to operate.
A space under the floor is enough to hide small items, while missing are a full-size or space-saver spare.
The Civic hybrid comes with a tyre repair kit.
INFOTAINMENT
The 9.0-inch infotainment screen now adds Google built-in services. allowing access to Google Assistant, navigation via Google Maps, link to compatible smart home devices and add apps from the Google Play store.
Honda Connect services also provide a link between smartphone and the car, remotely adjusting the
MODEL LINE-UP
HONDA CIVIC E: HEV L $49,900
HONDA CIVIC E: HEV LX $55,900
NOTE: this price does not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Honda local dealer for driveaway prices.
climate control air-con, lock or unlock the car, check the vehicle location, and receive car status checks.
A three-year subscription is included.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, AM/FM/DAB radio, or Bluetooth are on tap, while a 12-speaker Bose audio system punches above its weight with sound reproduction across all genres.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Powering the Civic e:HEV pair is a 2-litre direct injection petrol engine plus a two-motor hybrid system putting out 135kW of power and 315Nm of torque, engineered for ‘engaging levels’ of performance, response and feedback.
SAFETY
The Civic comes with new and advanced active and passive safety technology, including Honda Sensing, driver assistance made possible by better front camera software, while Honda’s Advanced
Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to better protect occupants and pedestrians in an accident.
New generation Honda Connect features a new user-friendly Connected App interface, improved response time and other new features.
All models come with 11 airbags (with rear-seat side and centre airbags previously not part of the hybrid equipment list).
DRIVING
Get in, press the start/stop button and leave the rest to the Civic.
The powertrain prioritises electric running, with the ICE chipping in from cold starts, or when battery charge is running low.
The E-CVT automatic is very un-CVT, with smooth running like an EV at low speeds, using the petrol engine to drive the wheels at higher speeds.
The regenerative braking that feeds power back to the battery when coasting can be adjusted via
steering wheel paddles.
The Civic e:HEV features more than one selectable drive mode letting the driver choose throttle response and fuel e ciency according preference or driving conditions.
On o er are Normal or Econ, which reduce throttle and transmission sensitivity as well as air-conditioning to help optimise fuel use and Sport which enhances throttle response, steering feel and engine sound.
Finally, Individual mode enables the driver to select preferred settings including engine responsiveness, steering feel and gauges.
While all this was going on the test Civic recorded average fuel consumption of 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres during a week of familystyle motoring.
Honda claims a combined urban/ highway cycle figure of 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres.
Recommended fuel is regular 91-octane unleaded petrol.
SUMMARY
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainableenergy driving, with the sporty Prelude the next cab o the petrol/ electric rank being launched next year before coming Down Under in 2026.
Something to look forward to.
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 6/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 6/10
STANDARD WARRANTY
Five years / unlimited kilometres. Battery: Eight years.
Wangaratta was wetter, but other centres drier in 2024
WHILE Wangaratta was wetter than average, Benalla, Rutherglen and Albury reflected our region’s trend of being drier than average, with daily maxima being about 1.5 degrees above normal, making 2024 the warmest year since 2019.
Minimum temperatures for 2024 were close to normal or a shade below normal.
Wangaratta’s total rainfall of 648mms was 36mms above the yearly average of 648mms.
The wettest day was January 3 with 54.4mms.
The mean maximum temperature of 23.2 degrees was also the warmest since 2019.
The hottest day was 39.6 degrees
WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
on December 16, which was the hottest in December since 42.5 degrees on December 20, 2019.
The mean minimum temperature of 7.5 degrees was close to average.
Our lowest temperature was minus 4.3 on July 19, and our coldest day was 9.8 degrees on June 13.
Frosts occurred on 82 days.
The highest minimum temperature of 22.5 degrees was recorded on December 17.
At Benalla a total of 608mms rain-
ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH WANGARATTA
The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.
Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.
fall was recorded against an average of 668mms.
The wettest day was 54.8mm on January 3 and the hottest day was 40.5 degrees on December 16.
The coldest day was 10.2 degrees on June 13, and Benalla had frosts on 64 days.
At Rutherglen a total of 573mms rainfall was recorded which was just below the average of 587mms.
The wettest day was May 31 with 44.8mms.
The mean maximum temperature of 23.9 degrees made 2024 the warmest year on record.
The hottest day was 41.1 degrees on December 16, which was also the
The highest minimum temperature was 23.8 degrees on February 5.
The lowest temperature was minus 4.5 degrees on both June 19 and July 30 - and frosts occurred on 91 days, with the coldest day only reaching 10.2 degrees on July 12.
Albury had a total of 475.6mms against an average annual rainfall of 510mms.
The wettest day was 31.6mms on May 30.
The mean maximum temperature of 24 degrees made 2024 the warmest year since 2006.
There were 44 days of frosts with the lowest temperature of minus 3.3 recorded on July 30.
The coldest day was 9.9 degrees
FLETCHER
December 31 at 12:46pm and weighed 3.6kg (7lb 14oz). She is the sister of Ellie and the daughter of Jade Cooper and Ewan McAllister of Benalla.
Volunteers rebuild hope
Monday, January 5, 2015
By JAMIE KRONBORG
BUSHFIRE recovery volunteers working with BlazeAid have opened their hearts and hands to help families rebuild key farming infrastructure in the wake of the 9000-hectare pre-Christmas fires that swept through the Boweya and Stewarton communities west of Wangaratta.
BlazeAid co-ordinator John Lillico is heading up a fencing camp based at Thoona memorial hall that has attracted 12 volunteers since Boxing Day.
Blaze Aid was established by East Kilmore farmers Rhonda and Kevin Butler in the wake of the Victoria’s vicious Black Saturday bushfires in February 2009.
Mr Lillico said that volunteers from as far afield as the Western
Australian capital, Perth, and from Gee-long, Frankston and Canberra had joined Thoona’s makeshift camp that now includes caravans, campervans and tents surrounding the hall.
They are helping to replace an estimated 170 kilometers of fencing on farms surrounding Boweya, Bungeet and other areas affected by the Lake Rowan-Warby fire and about 120km of fencing at Stewarton.
“A hell of a lot of our volunteers have been farmers so they have great experience in things like fencing,” Mr Lillico said.
Many of them are retired and travel the country.
“This is my fourth camp,” Mr Lillico said.
drought help in Queensland.
was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Sunday, December 29 at 3:25pm and weighed 2.91kg (6lb 6.6oz) He is the brother of Cora and Arthur and the son of Brigida Nutt and Todd Nutt of Myrtleford.
ELIJAH was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Wednesday, December 18 at 4:13pm and weighed 3.7kg (8lb 2.5oz). He is the brother of Penelope Baker and the son of Shannon Sampson and Daniel Baker of Wangaratta.
More blood donors are needed for
2025
By JORDAN DUURSMA
AUSTRALIAN Red Cross
Lifeblood is calling for blood donors for 2025.
More than 33,000 donations are needed each week in Australia for serious accidents, surgery, complicated births, cancer treatment, and more.
Lifeblood spokesperson Emily Granland said in Australia, someone will need blood every 18 seconds.
“Demand is at a 12 year high and continues to grow,” she said.
“If you haven’t donated before, make 2025 your year if you can.
“Every donation saves up to three lives.
“We thank all of our local donors in Wangaratta and surrounds for their generosity in 2024 and encourage them to continue this life-saving act in 2025 and beyond.”
Throughout 2024, demand for blood and plasma continued to increase at record levels.
More donations are now needed than ever before, largely due to a growing and aging population.
Lifeblood executive director of donor experience Cath Stone said Lifeblood has a mission to attain an extra 100,000 donors in 2025.
“One in three people will need blood in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donates,” she said.
“A blood donation only takes one hour, it’s not a large time commitment but you will make a life-changing difference.”
Lifeblood Wangaratta Donor Centre is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
The Wangaratta blood donor centre will be opening an extra day each week in 2025 from Tuesday, January 7, appointments are now available.
To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the free Donate Blood app.
“Last year I did nine months’ work with BlazeAid at Laharum in the Grampians and then did
“We expect to be here for about three months.”
Mr Lillico said that most of the volunteers who helped communities suffering a natural disaster heard about BlazeAid on ABC Radio’s ‘Australia All Over’ program hosted by Ian McNamara and broadcast nationwide on Sunday mornings.
“As well as the hard work, like fencing, one of the main things is just to let the people affected know that someone’s here to help them,” Mr Lillico said.
“It might be as simple as taking a bale of hay out to someone and saying ‘Here’s some feed for your horses’.”
The Country Women’s Association and other service organisations are helping to feed the volunteers at Thoona.
For information about how to help at the Thoona camp email blazeaid.thoona@gmail.com.
For other ways to help, or to seek BlazeAid assistance, go to www. blazeaid.com.
NO BARRIER: BlazeAid fencing volunteer Ron Matthews, from Numurkah, braved Friday’s heat to help farming families west of the Warby Range whose properties were damaged in the pre-Christmas bush-fires at Boweya and Stewarton. PHOTO: Luke Plummer
Elijah James Baker
Fletcher Gabriel Nutt
Madeleine McAllister
Kade Raphael Lumanog
Junior Reporter Club
INSET: MILESTONE:
significant milestone.
BORINYA STUDENTS PRAISED FOR ACHIEVEMENTS
90th birthday celebration for Beatrice
By JORDAN DUURSMA
WANGARATTA’S Beatrice Powely celebrated her 90th birthday with friends and family at the The Old Town ‘N’ Country Tavern on Sunday, December 29.
Beatrice was born to Tom and Jessie Reata (Née Ingram) Stevenson on December 29, 1934 at Yarra Junction.
Her father was the teacher and principal at Peechelba Primary School where she grew up, and her family moved to Wangaratta where she met her future husband at a dance in the 1950s.
Beatrice’s late husband, Geo Powley, passed away in 2015, just one month before they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Beatrice’s eldest grandson Josh Ferguson said his nana’s commitment to
community and family, and longevity in her marriage to Geo is a testament to the changes that she has seen over the 90 years - three monarchs, 21 PM’s, a world war, a new century and millennium, three children, seven grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.
Josh said his nana was well celebrated with a group of 25 close friends and family coming together to share a meal, presents and precious stories.
“She was ecstatic,” he said.
“She wasn’t expecting all of the family to come together so she was super wrapped we were all there.”
Beatrice is an active member of the community, heavily involved in a number of sporting groups including being a life member at the Jubilee Golf Club, and playing badminton and bowls.
Kelvin Berry of Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability.
received the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award from Borinya principal Eamonn Buckley.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: Marko Zanghellini received the Principal’s Award from Borinya principal Eamonn Buckley.
IN MEMORY: Charlie Wright with Jan Meloury at the presentation of the Joshua Meloury-Kaup Memorial Community Spirit Award.
FAMILY: Elise Willows, Georgia Powley, Amy Butler, Mathew Ferguson (back) Maddie Doherty, Joshua and Luke Ferguson, Beatrice Powely’s (centre) grandchildren, travelled from across the country to celebrate their nana’s birthday.
Joan McNaughton, Beatrice Powley and Kari Sanders celebrating the
REWARD FOR EFFORT: Taya Ross presents Patty Dobbyn with the Encouragement Award.
EAGER LEARNER: Leanne Holland presents Cayden Jackson with the Victorian Pathways Certificate Encouragement Award.
ACHIEVEMENT: Josh Hartwig was on hand to present the Numeracy Award to Jazmyn Wheildon.
ZONTA SUPPORT: Patty Dobbyn, recipient of the Zonta Award, with Zonta Club member Marg Skermer.
BORINYA Wangaratta Community Partnership held its Stand Tall ceremony on Thursday, December 12. The event was held to celebrate all the hard work from students over semester two, 2024.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Name a Polish-French pianist and composer, Frederic ... (6)
8 What is something that implies that something is uncanny (8)
9 What is the climatic weather that causes surface warming of the Southern Pacific Ocean (2,4)
10 Name the US Defence Department building (8)
11 To disclose, is to do what (6)
13 To have loathed, is to have done what (8)
16 When one supposes, one does what (8)
19 What are standards of perfection (6)
22 Which term describes a conscientious objector (8)
24 Name a long-haired variety of domestic rabbit (6)
25 What was once a specialist in mental diseases (8)
26 How many players are there in a hockey team (6)
DOWN
2 To share equally, is to do what (5)
3 What is a reward for victory (5)
4 What is a tumour called (8)
7 To be on dry land, is to be where (6)
12 What is a particular form of depravity (4)
14 To pause, is to do what (8)
15 Which town in southeastern Qld is known for its natural gas fields (4)
20 What, in golf, is a score of two below par (5)
21 To be of great scope, is to be what (5)
23 Name the Egyptian goddess of fertility and nature (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 OBDURATION (a) Stubbornness (b) An expression of respect (c) Obesity
E-QUATIONS 7
5 To smile broadly, is to do what (4)
17 Name another term for actually (6)
Letters have a number value
6 To be biassed or partial, is to be what (6)
18 To have grasped, is to have done what (6)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in
2 RABID (a) Swift-moving (b) Fanatical (c) Fundamental
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade quali ed, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.
PLASTERER, no job too small. Ph 0424 911 161.
WHEELER
Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited, convertible hard top, automatic, petrol 3.6 litre, loads of accessories, such as fog lights, hill descent, etc. goes anywhere, looks awesome in hard to get red, RWC, rego (2AD5JL), $21,500, Mansfield. Ph 0403 359 006.
2016 Mercedes GLA180, metallic blue, 120,000km, reg till Nov 25 (CIZ403), with warranty to Sep 28, economical 7.9l/100km, very good condition, RWC supplied, $22,000. Contact Joan 0422 261 537.
Passed away at North East Health, Wangaratta. Aged 53 years.
Loved and loving wife of Scott. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Tamara and Zac, Josh, Tim and Shayla. Loved and adored “Jam Nan” to Azayah and Scarlett. Treasured daughter of Bob (dec) and Jean Marengo. Loved sister and sister-in-law of John and Lissy, Michael and Deanne and their families.
Loved and remembered always.
MARENGO
Funeral Prayers for Janine Maree Marengo will be o ered at St Mary’s Catholic Church, North Road, Chiltern on Thursday, January 9, 2025 commencing at 11am.
The funeral will leave at the conclusion of Prayers for burial at the Chiltern Lawn Cemetery. A video recording of the service will be available on the N J Todd Website from 4pm on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
O’NEILL AND TODD FUNERAL DIRECTORS
(Pauline Lappin)
CHILTERN 5726 1302
BENALLA 5762 2461 Member AFDA
The ultimate guide for tourists and locals NOWOUT
Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2024/25 season NEWS
■ From back page
Lions waking ahead of season
BY NATHAN DE VRIES
ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
THE changing of the calendar into 2025 brings tangible proof the football season is fast approaching, and while squads across the region will soon launch back into preseason training, Whorouly is as eager as they come.
A er a few seasons towards the bottom end of the Ovens and King ladder, the Lions are shaping up as one of the teams to watch in 2025 with a new-look playing list.
Under new playing coach Michael Newton, who has a wealth of experience at AFL level and more than 110 games with Wangaratta Magpies, the club has announced more than half a dozen new signings of experienced senior players who set to bolster a determined Whorouly out t as they begin the climb up the league standings.
Newton’s Wangaratta teammate Jessie Smith has signed with the Lions, along with GVFL half-back Russ Eden, Glenrowan and Hurstbridge defender Max Scott, Myrtleford stalwart Corey Southern, and South West Football League’s Declan Hoy-Maroney.
Newton said the standard displayed at preseason training so far has been incredible, with improvement evident from every player in various aspects of the game.
“There’s a good level of commitment there, I can see the boys are really trying to get better and tter, it’s been pleasing to see,” he said.
“The boys have been put
WHOROULY IS SHAPING UP AS ONE OF THE MUST WATCH TEAMS AHEAD OF THE 2025 O&K SEASON
through some di erent drills, with a main focus on skill development and tness, especially skills under fatigue and a bit of pressure.
“We’ve been doing a lot of kicking drills, the boys have been getting about 150-odd kicks of the footy per week, it’s probably a little bit more than what they would’ve done in the past, and I’ve seen some really good improvement from a lot of players.”
With so many new players at a club, the playing group could potentially feel disjointed, but the signings have integrated well with
the squad and helped drive standards at training.
“A lot of the guys we have brought in are senior players, they’re not 18-year-olds who haven’t played much senior footy, they’ve been around higher levels of football and know what’s required,” Newton said.
“They’ve been good, bringing their experience and voice to training, they’ve been really good.
“There is obviously a fairly big gap between the Ovens and Murray and the Ovens and King, but the boys have really cracked in.
Geeth Alwis eyeing off WDCA batting record
“That’s how they can be a very good team in the future, that’s what my aim is in the next four or ve years, to become one of the best teams in the comp.”
On top of his Bradman-esque batting numbers, the le -arm o spinner is third overall in the wicket-taking charts, having snared 12 poles at 9.17 with a miserly economy rate of 2.21.
“I missed one game without bowling because of the injury to my index nger, and that hurt because the Rovers scored about 250 and we were about 60-70 runs behind in that game,” he said.
“Contributing is always good, everyone’s happy because as long as you perform, people enjoy.”
The Tigers will be back in action on Saturday, January 11 against Wangaratta Magpies for the rst of four home xtures.
“Whatever I’ve put in front of them, they’ve all given it 100 per cent, and for me, that’s the most enjoyable thing.
“There have been some drills there which the intensity level is probably on par with what Ovens and Murray guys train at, they really have a red-hot crack and throw their bodies in.”
For his part, Newton is relishing coaching at a senior level, aided by a group of talented assistants to help out when needed.
“It’s been enjoyable, it’s been a di erent challenge for me, the
rst time into a senior coaching role,” he said.
“For me, it’s about trying to manage my own level of training and trying to be a coach and help and coach as much as I can with the guys.
“That’s something that’s going to take a little bit of time, because I just like to train and I like to be out there doing everything, but there are times that I know I’m going to have to take a step back and be the coach.”
Preseason recommences for the Lions on Wednesday, January 8.
READY TO ROAR: Whorouly senior coach Michael Newton and the Lions are hard at work ahead of the 2025 O&K season.
April
Wednesday, April 3
Rovers’ derby statement
WANGARATTA Rovers made a Good Friday derby statement to kick off their 2024 campaign.
A busy off-season of recruiting paid off for the Hawks who claimed the first derby for the season, downing Wangaratta by 12-points at Norm Minns Oval.
Friday, April 5
Pressure’s the focus for Rovers
WANGARATTA Rovers have the opportunity to start their season in perfect fashion when they host Corowa-Rutherglen on Saturday.
After a massive derby win in round one, Rovers will be expecting to be 2-0 after they face the Roos who to everyone’s delight, rejoined the O&M in 2024 after missing the 2023 season.
Monday, April 8
Bulldogs have their day
TARRAWINGEE’S senior football squad got on the board in their second hit out on Saturday, stunning King Valley at home with a gritty 14.12 (96) to 13.14 (92) win.
The Bulldogs hit the scoreboard early, booting four goals in the opening term, but King Valley kept the margin from extending too far early.
Wednesday, April 10
Young talent time
SIX Wangaratta athletes are on their way to Adelaide over the next week to compete with the nation’s best at the National Athletics Championships.
A bumper nine days of track and field will see the local hopefuls compete across multiple days in their quest to end their seasons on the biggest of highs.
Friday, April 12
Hawks step into Den
SATURDAY’S clash between North Wangaratta and Whorouly at the Lions’ Den is sure to be a fiery contest, as both sides seek to establish themselves as legitimate finals contenders.
The Hawks fell a goal short against Moyhu on Saturday, and will be eager
sport year in review
umpires
to rectify their mistakes, while the Lions are up and about and looking to improve on their 63-point victory over Benalla.
Monday, April 15
Hawks are on the board
NORTH Wangaratta are on the board after a convincing performance against Whorouly on Saturday, recording their first win of the season 15.12 (102) to 7.5 (47).
The Hawks took the lead early and maintained the pressure throughout the match, holding a seven-goal lead by half-time.
Wednesday, April 17 ‘Pies still unbeaten
WANGARATTA enjoyed a convincing 19-goal win over Wodonga at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday.
The Bulldogs got the jump and led Wangaratta by six goals at the first break, however, the Magpies responded and grabbed a one point buffer at the main change.
Friday, April 19
Waiting game for Bella
BELLA Pasquali has run a qualifying 400m time to be eligible for
selection
The local running sensation finished third in the under 20 women’s 400m final at the Australian Track and Field Championships in South Australia finishing in 54.15 seconds, smashing the qualifying time of 55.40.
Monday, April 22
Rovers roll Tigers
WANGARATTA Rovers grabbed arguably their most impressive win for the season with a 20-point victory over Albury at WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday.
A whopping 49-disposal performance from Sam Murray saw Rovers lead at every change to run away 10.9 (69) to 7.7 (49) victors.
Wednesday, April 24
Rovers on the board
BOTH local O&M netball clubs scored impressive wins over the weekend with Wangaratta Rovers downing Albury, while Wangaratta took care of Yarrawonga.
Wangaratta Rovers are on the board for 2024 after a nine-goal win over Albury at WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday.
hockey
Back to School
the 2024 season after downing Wodonga Raiders by 34-points at Birallee Park on Saturday.
Friday, April 26
Goorambat’s hard work is paying off
GOORAMBAT is firming as one of the massive improvers of the 2024 O&K senior footy season, and will look for a third win on the trot when they host Whorouly this Saturday.
After finishing 2023 at ninth on the ladder with a 4-14 record, the Bats have won two of their first three hit-outs, with substantial victories over King Valley (111 points) and North Wangaratta (81 points) in the last fortnight.
Monday, April 29
The Bats are on fire
GOORAMBAT continued to impress on Saturday after withstanding a challenge from a fired-up Whorouly outfit, the Bats home 17.12 (114) to 7.7 (49).
The Lions found plenty of the footy early but were unable to convert it on the scoreboard, with the home Bats opening up a four-goal margin by the first break.
May
Wednesday, May 1
Devils’ sweet 16
WANGARATTA City FC’s senior women recorded one of their most dominant wins ever on the weekend, annihilating Twin City Wanderers 16-0.
Monday, May 6
Demons show class
MILAWA recovered from a slow start to record their third win of the season, downing North Wangaratta 14.13 (97) to 3.7 (25).
The heavy favourites heading into the match against the current bottom of the table, the Lady Devils wasted no time finding the back of the net, scoring goal after goal to lead 12-0 at half-time.
Friday, May 3
Milestone for Lions
THE Whorouly Football Netball Club will celebrate a milestone this weekend, the community coming together to commemorate 120 years as members of the Ovens and King competition. Coming together as a club as far back as the 1890s, Whorouly joined the league then known as the Ovens and King Football Association in the competition’s second year in 1904.
The Demons were slugging out of the gate, only recording three minor scores for the first term, while the Hawks ran rampant with three goals of their own.
Wednesday, May 8
Lady Devils roll on DESPITE coach Terry Masters saying his side was not up to their usual standard of play, the senior Lady Devils still walked away from Willow Park on Sunday with a 6-0 win over Wodonga Heart.
Chances came thick and fast early in the match, with Wangaratta scoring four goals in the opening 45 minutes, and keeping the ball in Heart’s defensive half for the majority of the match.
Friday, May 10
World champs bound WANGARTTA’S Bella Pasquali is off to Peru in August as part of the Australian contingent competing in the 2024 World Athletics Under 20 Championships.
The local running sensation was named in the 4x400m relay team off the back of her run in the under 20 women’s 400m final at the Australian Track and Field Championships in South Australia last month, a blistering time of 54.15 seconds.
Monday, May 13
‘Pies trending positively
WANGARATTA secured the win they were after as they made light work of Lavington at Norm Minns Oval.
After a slow start to the season, the Magpies have now banked two wins in a row with their 62-point victory over the Panthers their most impressive yet.
Wednesday, May 15
Joe’s at home in the AFL
IT was just two years ago that Wangaratta’s Joe Richards was plying his trade in the O&M for Wangaratta. Fast forward to Sunday and the 24-year-old was making his debut for Collingwood, playing a pivotal role in his side’s 66-point thumping of West Coast.
at the World Junior Athletics Championships.
IN THE FAMILY: Lenny Holden and granddaughter Marley Higham hope to umpire together for many years. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
GREAT BATTLE: Wangaratta Dragons young star Amelie Reilly works hard to win the ball. PHOTO: Wangaratta Dragons Hockey Club
THREE FROM THREE: Brodie Filo and Wangaratta Rovers are 3-0 to start
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
sport year in review
rugby league
Friday, May 17
Two versus three
WANGARATTA Rovers and Wodonga meet at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow in what shapes as one of the matches of the round.
In what’s a two versus three affair, the Hawks will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to seven, while the Bulldogs will be hoping to draw level with Rovers if they’re to get over the line.
Monday, May 20
Bright survives scare
BRIGHT’S senior football side remain undefeated after a close call with North Wangaratta on Saturday, the Mountain Men home by a single point 10.8 (68) to the Hawks’ 10.7 (67).
The Mountain Men seemed like they were doubling up on last weekend’s bye as North Wangaratta raced out of the blocks to stun the visitors.
Wednesday, May 22
Magpies make statement
WANGARATTA is the only undefeated side of the A grade netball competition after downing CorowaRutherglen in Saturday’s top of the table clash at John Foord Oval.
The Magpies led at every change, even opening up a nine goal buffer at the main break as they held on to a 45-54 victory in what was a statement making display.
Friday, May 24
Blockbuster at Bright GRETA are raring to go for Saturday’s blockbuster one versus three affair against Bright at Pioneer Park Reserve.
Coming off a bye, the Blues will be fresh for the undefeated Bright as they look to hand them their first loss for the season.
Monday, May 27
Greta’s Bright spark GRETA senior footballers recorded their most impressive win of the season thus far as they handed Bright their first loss of the season.
The Blues were hot from the get-go with their 21-point lead at the first change setting the tone for a 13.1 (81) to 16.7 (103) victory at Pioneer Park Reserve on Saturday.
Wednesday, May 29
Devils dispatch Cobram
WANGARATTA City turned in their biggest win of the season with a 5-2 beating of Cobram at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday.
With both sides in similar ladder positions pre-game, the Devils fancied their chances going into the clash and put on a clinical display.
Friday, May 31
Murray’s a Crow
IN the space of 12 months Toby Murray has gone from playing footy for Wangaratta Rovers to finding himself on an AFL list.
The 201cm forward/ruck was drafted to Adelaide with pick seven of Wednesday’s mid-season draft off the back of strong performances for Adelaide’s SANFL side.
June
Monday, June 3
‘Pies brush Tiges aside
WANGARATTA fought back from a 10-point half-time deficit to push aside last year’s runners up at the Albury Sportsground on Saturday.
A seven-goal haul from Callum Moore saw the Magpies stack on 12 second half goals to Albury’s four to salute comfortably in the 10.12 (72) to 16.12 (108) affair.
Wednesday, June 5
‘Dogs have their day
TARRAWINGEE survived a scare from a fired-up Whorouly A grade squad on Saturday to hold onto fourth place on the ladder.
The Bulldogs were challenged throughout the match but pulled away late in the 46-41 result.
Friday, June 7
Rovers secure Betts
ONE of the AFL’s most exciting forward of all time will don Wangaratta Rovers’ jumper for a one-off appearance.
Former Carlton and Adelaide superstar Eddie Betts is set to play for the Hawks in their round 12 clash against Wodonga Raiders on July 6.
Back to School
Monday, June 10
Missed chances cost gallant Rovers
WANGARATTA Rovers’ senior footballers fell victim to a quality Yarrawonga outfit at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday.
In the one versus two affair it was the Pigeons who fought back from a three point deficit at half-time to secure a 10.12 (72) to 6.12 (48) win, jumping a game clear at the top of the O&M ladder.
Wednesday, June 12 ‘Pies drop first game of season
WANGARATTA netballers suffered their first loss for season 2024 at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday.
In the top of the table clash against Wodonga Raiders, the Magpies gave up a five goal three quarter time lead to fall 43-45.
Friday, June 14
Beaver’s big day
WHOROULY’S Brett Allen will cross a threshold very few footballers will ever come close to in their career,
when he runs out in the Whorouly colours for the 500th time on Saturday.
With a career spanning 32 years, ‘Beaver’, as he’s known around the club, is one of the elder statesmen of not only the club but the league as a whole.
Monday, June 17
Blues cruise to win
GRETA senior footballers proved the bye weekend hadn’t dulled their killer instinct, ripping apart Moyhu by 131 points, 24.14 (158) to 3.9 (27) on Saturday.
The Blues wasted no time cracking apart Moyhu’s defence, producing nine shots on goal in the first 20 minutes to take a 27 point lead into the quarter time huddle.
Wednesday, June 19
Ivanov the match saver
WANGARATTA City fought back from 1-3 down to play out a 3-3 draw against the highly touted Boomers at South Wangaratta Reserve on Sunday.
A Stoycho Ivanov equaliser in the final 10 seconds of the game saw the Devils take a point against the thirdplaced Boomers.
Friday, June 21
Home pride on line
WANGARATTA Rovers have a golden chance to further enhance their credentials when they meet Wangaratta at WJ Findlay Oval on Sunday.
Fresh off a 24-point loss to Yarrawonga before last weekend’s bye, the Hawks have the perfect opportunity to bounce back and show the competition what they’re capable of against the surging Magpies.
Monday, June 24
Blues too good for Milawa
GRETA’S credentials as a flag favourite were even further strengthened after handing fourthplaced Milawa a 15.14 (104) to 8.3 (51) loss.
An explosive opening term saw the Blues grab a 16-point lead early, which ballooned out to a 30-point margin by the half-time mark.
Wednesday, June 26
Dees have their day
THE Demons shocked the formerly undefeated reigning premiers Greta on Saturday, exacting revenge for last season’s grand final loss with the narrowest of wins 52-51.
Greta shot out of the gates early, opening up a five-goal margin after 15 minutes, before the Demons worked their way back into the match to level the scores 25-25 by the half.
Friday, June 28
League’s top honour for Rovers’ relatives
WANGARATTA Rovers legendary duo Mick Wilson and the late Mick Nolan will be inducted into the Ovens and Murray’s Hall of Fame.
The O&M announced on Wednesday the pair, along with Yarrawonga dynamo Craig Ednie, will be inducted at next month’s Hall of Fame function.
July, August, September Year In Review in Wednesday, January 8 edition
WOLFPACK’S BACK: Wolfpack RLFC president Ivy Higgins is excited to welcome everyone to the club’s new home back at Eldorado Centennial Park.
PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
FIGHTING THE BEAST: Milawa FNC’s (from left) Kim Michelini, Ian Bourke, Vicki Bourke and Kerri Michelini will be raising funds and awareness of MND after Vicki’s recent diagnosis. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
500 FOR BRETT: Both senior and reserve teams from Whorouly and North Wangaratta united to acknowledge Whorouly’s Brett Allen, who played his 500th game for the Lions in Saturday’s reserve match. Whorouly turned up for their stalwart, taking the win over the Hawks 11.5 (71) to 9.9 (63). PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
Lions ramp up for 2025 season
Geeth Alwis eyeing off WDCA batting record
Geeth
Alwis’ 482 runs from the first half of the season puts him within striking distance of the A grade aggregate record which has stood since 1936/37.
A TOTAL of 482 runs from seven innings, averaging 96.40 and striking at 87.16, with two centuries to his name – most cricketers would take that any day of the week, but Geeth Alwis is just getting warmed up.
The Ovens Valley United coach and all-rounder leads the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association A grade batting charts ahead of the season recommencing on January 11, having posted some truly impressive innings to date.
While there’s still half a season to play, Alwis is on track to rewrite the record books, challenging the A grade’s 88-year-old batting aggregate record of 929 runs (822 in season, 107 in nals) set by Charlie Heavey in the 1936/37 season.
The next highest run scorer for the season, Rovers United Bruck opener Charith Perera, sits 159 runs in arrears.
Scores of 89, 46, 15, 140*, 105*, 58 and 29 so far have cemented Alwis as the key wicket for opposition bowlers to take early.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
and with the support I’ve received from the cricket club, players and committee, they’re always backing me, and I’m free to focus on my cricket, and I think that helps me get the performance out.
“Normally I have a good season a er Christmas most of the time, that’s when the batters dominate, so I’m expecting to continue this form and win more games for Ovens Valley.”
Alwis’ exploits with the willow have been a rallying cry for the Tigers, who sit third overall at the season midpoint, but he said the team needed stronger batting partnerships if they wanted to enjoy more success.
I’m playing cricket like I did back home, just playing.
Alwis said a lessencumbered headspace has allowed him to play his brand of uninhibited cricket.
“I’ve had quite a few good seasons in Melbourne, but this year I’m playing cricket freely,” he said.
“I haven’t worked much, I used to work a lot while playing cricket, but once we moved to Myrtleford it’s just free.
“I’m playing cricket like I did back home, just playing.
“That mindset might be getting the most out of me,
“I’m quite happy with the way things are turning out as far as myself, but for the team, we haven’t found consistency enough to win,” he said.
“I’m pretty sure with everyone contributing every single game in the one dayers we might reach 200 and in the two-day game maybe 250-300 – that can be done with everyone contributing, and when everyone’s contributing we can win most of the games.
“That’s what I’m expecting from the locals, I want them to improve, I want them to spend time in the middle, build an innings and bat around when we’re batting in the middle and take the game forward.
