MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO DONATE
Burns from Wangaratta Lifeblood and Kelly
the community more opportunities to donate life-saving supplies.
House prices ease
IT might be the right time for buyers to purchase an established home with house prices dropping 2.8 per cent across regional Victoria in 2024.
Wangaratta’s median house price is $526,000 based on 233 sales between January to December 2024 and over the past 12 months this gure is down 0.8pc.
Harcourts Real Estate agent Joe McKenzie said
Homes selling at right price in buyer’s market
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
although the market has settled, it is still healthy with rental enquires and pricing strong and he believes this will continue into 2025.
“Newer, cleaner properties and anything central to the
hospital are highlights and popular with people looking for investment properties for rent,” he said.
The market is also trending towards a buyers’ market and Mr McKenzie said residential and commercial properties will sell quickly if the pricing is on the mark.
“If you pricing isn’t in
market, the demand certainly won’t be there,” he said.
“Buyers have the opportunity to sit and wait if homes are outside market, but if they are priced well they sell quite quickly.”
Mr McKenzie said road, footpath and amenity infrastructure improvements in Wangaratta like the railway precinct are
only going to increase what the CBD central properties are going to do in the market.
Harcourts sold 700 acres between Boorhaman and Norong before Christmas, and commercially they sold 58 Sanford Road and Browning Street, both under auction.
“Buying trends haven’t changed in the last six months and new home builds slowed dramatically
last year,” Mr McKenzie reported.
“First home buyers trying to buy established 60 to 70-year-old homes in the west end are looking at $400,000 to $650,000.
“The next level of buying activity has probably been a ected by traditional markets, those who are upgrading and people who are downsizing.
■ Continued page 7
Shae
Smith are excited to announce Wangaratta Lifeblood Centre is now open on Tuesdays to give
Story page 3.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
WSAC Stadium opening Saturday
CELEBRATE the opening of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s new stadium with a community day full of activities for all ages on Saturday, January 18.
The free event will give the community the chance to explore everything the new multi-sport space has to offer, including fitness classes, come-and-try sessions and fun activities for kids.
It will run from 8am to 4pm on Saturday, with more information including timetables available at www.wsac.vic.gov.au.
WE WANT YOUR NEWS
Call the Wangaratta Chronicle on (03) 57230113 or email us at edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Police report surgery needed for Burke Street stabbing victim
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
ONE of two victims of a stabbing on Burke Street last week remain in medical care following major lacerations.
Wangaratta detectives investigated the incident which took
place Tuesday, January 7 around 8:30pm.
Detective Senior Constable James Howarth said a man and a woman both, aged in their 30s from Wangaratta, obtained stab wounds from an unknown offender with a knife.
“The male received lacerations to the head and the female received a deep laceration to the le wrist down to the bone,” he said.
Det Sen Const Howarth said the woman was taken to a Melbourne hospital to undergo sur-
gery and the male received treatment at Wangaratta Hospital.
Det Sen Const Howarth said while Investigations into the identi cation of the attacker remain ongoing, it was believed to be a targeted attack and the community were not at risk.
Lightning strikes twice over the weekend
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
SUMMER storms struck parts of the region over Saturday and Sunday, with heavy downpours coming to Wangaratta on Sunday.
According to the Bureau of
Meteorology’s Wangaratta Airport recording station, 7.8mm of rain fell between 3:30pm and 4pm on Sunday afternoon with peak wind gusts reaching 85 km/h.
The storm’s temporary burst
had Wangaratta SES crews responding to fallen trees near Laceby. Parts of the North East including Albury-Wodonga and Winton saw thunderstorms pass through on Saturday night,
with Wangaratta unscathed.
As of 11am Monday, The Bureau predicted another possible storm to pass by on Wednesday before a cool change comes in on Thursday, with a maximum of 26 degrees forecasted.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
WILD WETLANDS: Saturday night’s storm could be seen from afar at the Winton wetlands.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
CLEARING THE WAY: Wangaratta SES responded to a tree fall on Snow Road near Laceby following Sunday a ernoon’s storm.
TWO-PRONGED ATTACK: Bursts of lightning surrounded Wangaratta on Sunday a ernoon, with this strike taken from Glenrowan.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
An extra day to donate blood in Wangaratta as demand rises
By JORDAN DUURSMA
AUSTRALIAN Red Cross
Lifeblood is opening the doors of its Wangaratta Donor Centre on Tuesdays, to provide locals with greater opportunity to donate blood or plasma at a time when more donors are crucial.
The additional day will generate an extra 34 appointments.
It closely follows an urgent nationwide appeal last week to replenish low blood stocks a er more than 20,000 people cancelled, rescheduled or did not attend their donation appointments.
The news was welcomed by Wangaratta local, Kelly Smith, who has relied on blood and platelet transfusions as part of her treatment for breast cancer a er being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2024.
Kelly has required blood and platelet transfusions during her treatment and estimates it would have taken about 50 donors to support her needs.
Kelly encourages new and existing donors to take an hour out of their day to make a life-changing di erence for people like herself.
“I don’t think I’d be here if I didn’t receive blood to be honest,” Kelly said.
“I urge my community to donate blood.
“The need for blood
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
AN ALLEGED Saturday night burglary of a Wangaratta home went up in ames for two men who set themselves on re.
Wangaratta Crime Investigation Unit detectives released CCTV footage following a burglary and car re around 9:15pm at Swinburne Drive.
The CCTV footage depicts two men who appear to be setting a car on re with what looks to be petrol.
As the car lit up, both men
Wangaratta Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said opening an extra day gives more locals the opportunity to be able to donate.
“There is an increase in demand for blood and plasma; opening on a Tuesday allows us to open an addition 34 appointments.
“This will make a tangle di erence in the lives of recipients like Kelly.
“I would encourage anyone aged between 18 and 75, who weighs over 50kg to donate.
TREATMENT: KELLY SMITH RECEIVING LIFE SAVING TREATMENT AT NORTHEAST HEALTH WANGARATTA.
doesn’t stop and every donation makes a signi cant difference to a patient and their loved ones.”
Kelly said she used to be a blood donor and never thought she would be on the
COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU:
to role up their sleeve and give a life-saving
other end of the process, receiving the life-saving donations.
“If it weren’t for people’s donations, my cancer treatment couldn’t have gone ahead, in which case I
wouldn’t be here today.
“It’s going to be an ongoing journey for me, I’m not likely to be cancer free but managing it, and its the generosity of the community keeping me a oat.”
Every 18 seconds, someone somewhere in Australia will need blood or blood products and the demand continues to increase, largely due to a growing and aging population.
“If you are unsure if you are eligible or not, just reach out to us, don’t rule yourself out.
“About one hour of your time can make a lifetime of di erence to not only the person receiving the blood but also for their friends, family and wider community.
“In 2024 the Wangaratta Donor Centre collected 4465 donations, each of them makes di erence.”
Lifeblood’s Donor Centre is located at 17a Norton Street, Wangaratta and is open on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursday from 11am to 6:30 pm, and Friday from 7:30 am to 2:30pm.
For more information about donating blood visit lifeblood.com.au and to book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood. com.au or on the DonateBlood app.
Wangaratta bungling burglars go up in flames
who were standing in close proximity of the re caught ames and ed.
The men were seen running towards Cambridge Drive, with one of them rolling on grass to take the re on their leg out.
The other man appeared to throw an item away as he attempted to put a re out on their foot and arm for some time, while their counterpart watched and eventually ed from the other side of the road.
A Fire Rescue Victoria crew attended the scene
shortly a erwards and quickly brought the car re under control at 9:23pm.
Police have been told the unknown offenders entered a house on Swinburne Drive and stole personal items prior to setting the car, and themselves, alight.
They were last seen on Cambridge Drive.
Detective Senior Constable James Howarth said police were seeking public assistance with the identi cation of the two men and anyone with information, particu-
larly those who know anyone with burns, to contact Wangaratta police on 03 5723 0888.
Police are also investigating a suspicious car re which took place around 1:50pm the same day at Bobinawarrah.
Det Sen Const Howarth said police believed the incidents weren’t related.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a con dential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
have
and
CARNIVAL
SATURDAY JANUARY 25
WOODCHOPPING from 10:30am
RUNNING from 2:30pm
THE
Shae Burns and Kelly Smith are encouraging locals
donation. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
set a car,
themselves, on fire at Swinburne Drive following an alleged burglary on Saturday night.
Staying cool top of the agenda for local kids
By KURT HICKLING
Crime, mystery on the menu for locals
By SIMONE KERWIN
WANGARATTA readers are still lapping up crime, thriller and mystery booksespecially when they’ve had a chance to meet the authors.
The list of the most-borrowed fiction books from the Wangaratta Library in 2024 included ‘The Seven’ and ‘The Tilt’ from Chris Hammer, who visited for a literary lunch in late 2023; ‘The Accident’ by Fiona Lowe, who was in Wangaratta in March; and ‘The Cryptic Clue’ by Amanda Hampson, who visited the rural city in May.
Two works by local author Margaret Hickey also made the top 10, including her latest, ‘The Creeper’, which was the subject of a library event in August.
It was a similar situation for those buying books local-
ly this year, with Edgars Book and News reporting that its top 10 books were all written by Australian authors, and mostly related to visiting author events.
‘The Creeper’ was atop the store’s top 10 books, followed by ‘Sister Viv’ by Grantlee Kieza and ‘Back to Bangka’ by Georgina Banks, which both have local links.
A 2023-released series based on Bonnie Garmus’ ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ perhaps helped ensure it made the library’s top 10 adult fiction list, while the work of Richard Osman and Sally Hepworth continued to be popular - possibly also spurred by talk of coming TV series based on their books.
The library’s adult nonction list, meanwhile, was topped by Anna Funder’s ‘Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life’, about writer George Orwell’s wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, which is described as “an ode to the unsung work of women everywhere”.
It also includes Richard Flanagan’s unique memoir ‘Question 7’, Prince Harry’s much-discussed autobiography ‘Spare’ and, like the Edgars list, Grantlee Kieza’s ‘Sister Viv’, which centres on Australian Army nurse Vivian Bullwinkel. Another Australian history book, David Marr’s ‘Killing for Country’, is also on the list.
Books from celebrity cooks, Kate Flood’s ‘The Compost Coach’, and James Clear’s self-improvement guide ‘Atomic Habits’ rounded out the top 10 non- ction titles.
For young readers drawing on the Wangaratta Library
collection, book series were the way to go, with Aaron Blabey’s ‘The Bad Guys’, Dav Pilkey’s ‘Dog Man’ and ‘Cat Kid Comic Club’, and the era-defying ‘The Babysitters Club’ topping the list.
Graphic novels and fantasy stories were also popular among the library’s young patrons, while Je Kinney’s ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ continued to draw readers more than 17 years a er the rst book in the series was released.
Wangaratta Library top 10 most-borrowed adult ction books in 2024:
1. The Seven - Chris Hammer
2. The Accident - Fiona Lowe
3. The Cryptic ClueAmanda Hampson
4. Darling Girls - Sally Hepworth
5. The Last Devil to DieRichard Osman
6. Broken Bay - Margaret Hickey
7. Exiles - Jane Harper
8. Lessons in ChemistryBonnie Garmus
9. The Tilt - Chris Hammer
10. The Creeper - Margaret Hickey
Wangaratta Library top 10 adult non- ction:
1. Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s invisible life - Anna Funder
2. Question 7 - Richard Flanagan
3. Spare - Harry Prince Duke of Sussex
4. Sister Viv - Grantlee Kieza
5. Atomic Habits: Tiny changes, Remarkable results: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones - James Clear
6. Killing for Country: A Family Story - David Marr
7. 5 ingredients
Mediterranean - Jamie Oliver
8. The Compost Coach: Make Compost, Build Soil and Grow a Regenerative Garden - Wherever You Live - Kate Flood
9. What I Cook When Nobody’s Watching - Poh Ling Yeow
10. RecipeTin Eats
Dinner: 150+ Recipes from Australia’s Favourite CookNagi Maehashi
Wangaratta Library top 10 junior ction:
1. The Bad Guys Series
2. Dog Man Series
3. The Baby-sitters Club series
4. Wings of Fire series
5. Cat Kid Comic Club series
6. Dragon Kingdom of Wrenly series
7. Click series
8. PAWS series
9. Avatar the last Airbender series
10. Diary of a Wimpy Kid series
Edgars Books and News top 10 books for 2024:
1. The Creeper by Margaret Hickey
2. Sister Viv by Grantlee Kieza
3. Back to Bangka by Georgina Banks
4. Moo (photographic gi book)
5. The Accident by Fiona Lowe
6. The Voice Inside by John Farnham
7. The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli by Ryan Butta
8. The Glass House by Graeme Simsion & Anne Buist
9. Smoke by Michael Brissenden
10. The Cryptic Clue by Amanda Hampson
BIG SPLASH: Layten Smith.
TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL: Xavier Wilde.
SUMMER TIME: Mia Butler.
HOLIDAY VIBES: Cooper Davies.
WANGARATTA Splash Park was full of activity with kids on school holidays taking advantage of the warm weather. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
IN DEMAND: Wangaratta Library sta members Tanya Hopper and Akasha Ling with a selection of 2024’s most-borrowed books from the library.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Running together for change, on Team CAV
THE annual Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run provides a platform for community connection and support, and Team CAV (Communities Against Violence) is using this year’s event on Sunday, March 16 at the Wangaratta Showgrounds to champion healthy relationships and conversations that matter.
Michael Webbers, a teacher at Galen Catholic College, is among those who have joined Team CAV.
“Last year was my rst time getting into running, and when I signed up for fun runs, I noticed there were groups I could join,” he said.
“I’ve always been drawn to groups that promote antiviolence initiatives.
“In today’s world, with so much negativity accessible online, I feel strongly about supporting anything that builds positive community partnerships and promotes healthy relationships, especially for younger people.”
Webbers, who works closely with youth, understands the power of leading by example.
“This year, I’m challenging myself to complete the half marathon,” he said.
“Last year, I did my rst
10K, and crossing that nish line was emotional.
“It was tough...I hadn’t done any physical activity in over 10 years, but it inspired me to focus on my health and take on new challenges.”
Team CAV’s impact goes beyond the running track.
Webbers credits a ‘Working-with-Boys’ personal development program with The Man Cave, supported by CAV, and funded by GIVE Wangaratta for helping him grow both personally and professionally.
“That program got me to re ect on my own values and how I interact with young people,” he explained.
“O en, professional development is about what you should do with others, but this helped me focus on myself, which has strengthened my ability to have meaningful conversations with the young people I work with.”
The shirt Webbers proudly wears as part of Team CAV sparks these vital conversations.
“Even when I’m not running, I wear it because it’s an invitation for younger people to ask about it,” he said.
“It opens the door to talk about what’s happening in their lives.”
For Webbers, events like the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run showcases the di erence communities can make when they come together.
“Any time we can talk about violence, gender equality, or challenging harmful beliefs, we’re making a di erence,” he said.
Webbers said Team CAV was all about diversity.
“It’s a big, diverse group, and you’ll always nd someone to connect with whether you want to walk 5km or run a longer distance,” he said.
“The event is well-organised, the weather is perfect for running, and the at track makes it accessible for everyone.
“Plus, let’s not forget, the CAV shirts are awesome!”
With Team CAV’s efforts at the forefront, the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run is shaping up to be a celebration of resilience, community, and connections.
For more information about Joining #Team CAV, the ‘Working with Boys’ professional development program or any of CAV’s upcoming events: go to https://centreagainstviolence.org.au
Air support called for Winton North fire
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
AIR support was requested to assist multiple CFA crews with a scrub re in Winton North on Monday a ernoon.
A CFA spokesperson said ground crews requested the additional support as they began containing the blaze which spanned around three hectares around 2pm.
The re was situated in a rural area near Lake Mokoan Road and Baines Road in Taminick, north of the Winton Wetlands.
A community information message was issued by CFA around 3:30pm, informing community members in Chesney Vale, Taminick and Thoona smoke may be visible and there was no immediate threat.
The incident was deemed under control a short time later.
The spokesperson said 18 CFA units from multiple local brigades attended the scene a er reports of a column of smoke in the area.
“Crews returned in the daylight to nish blacking out Tuesday morning,” they said.
Monitor warnings through VicEmergency website/app/ hotline.
IN TRAINING: Micheal Webbers and son Jack are preparing for the fun run as part of Team CAV.
Time to answer the call and donate
THE Wangaratta community has been given every opportunity to answer the calls to a nationwide epidemic of low blood stocks, and we need to answer.
Increasing calls for demand has seen the local Australian Red Cross Lifeblood centre open its doors an additional day to open up extra appointments.
The story of Wangaratta local Kelly Smith and her reliance on blood and platelet transfusions as part of her breast cancer treatment in today’s story should serve as a stark reminder on the importance of giving blood.
It is truly harrowing to think that your life could rely on strangers rolling up their sleeves for 40–odd minutes to donate their plasma.
A slight sacrifice of time and a tiny pinch in your arm is a small price to pay to help someone rebuild their life after battling night and day against diseases which can change the entire trajectory of a person’s existence.
The need for blood doesn’t stop and in times of increading deman, it’s more vital now than ever.
While needles may not be everyone and some may not be eligible, you can still make a difference by donating plasma, volunteering or sharing information with friends or on social media.
And if you’re unsure about your eligibility, make sure you don’t rule yourself out and contact Lifeblood to ask the question.
Your donation could one day save the life of someone you know and love.
For more information about donating blood visit lifeblood.com.au and to book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.
The Australian Quiz
1
Robin Wright starred as Jenny Curran in which 1994 Academy Awardwinning movie?
(a) Ed Wood
(b) Forrest Gump
(c) Blue Sky (d) Pulp Fiction
2
Xerostomia is a condition based on which of the following symptoms?
(a) Excessive sleeping
(b) Dry eyes
(c) Excessive sweating (d) Dry mouth
3
The board game, Monopoly, originated in which country?
(a) United States (b) United Kingdom
(c) Germany (d) Italy
4
Australian sportsperson, Zoe Hives, is best known for her involvement in which sport?
(a) Swimming (b) Basketball
(c) Tennis (d) Cricket
5
Agra Fort is a popular tourist attraction in which country?
(a) Bangladesh
(b) India
(c) Pakistan
(d) Nepal
6
Olav V was the King of which country from 1957
Salvos say thankyou for Christmas support
WITH the start of a new year, 2025 o ers us a chance to re ect on the year that has passed, and also look forward to the new beginnings o ered in the year ahead.
For The Salvos, looking back on 2024 means re ecting on the one person every seventeen seconds that we helped throughout the year.
It is a privilege to stand alongside Aussies doing it tough and provide them with support and hope.
It also means re ecting on the generosity of you, the Australian public who help make this vital work possible.
So, from all of us at The Salvation Army, and on behalf of all those we support every day, to the Australian public we say thank you.
Thank you particularly for your generosity towards our Christmas Appeal, which helped provide a special Christmas to those who would have otherwise gone without.
If it wasn’t for your support, kids would have gone without presents under the tree, families without a special Christmas meal and many without hope and joy during the festive season.
Now, as we look towards 2025, The Salvation Army wants to make an encouragement to those around the country.
While some Australians were in the position to give to The Salvos during Christmas, many others found it to be one of the most nancially crippling times of the year, particularly as our nation faces a cost-ofliving crisis.
To anyone who found themselves in that position, and now may be facing debt, nancial hardship or stress about money, we want to let you know that there is hope at the start of this year.
The Salvos Moneycare service o ers free and con dential nancial counselling to thousands of Aussies each year, helping them to get on top of their nances.
We encourage all Australians to take a look at their nances this year, and if you are struggling to cope nancially, please reach out to The Salvation Army’s Moneycare service.
We are here for you, and there is no shame in reaching out for support.
Please don’t wait until it is too late. Reach out to Moneycare today by visiting salvationarmy.org.au/moneycare or call 1800 722 363.
until 1991?
(a) Norway (b) Netherlands (c) Spain (d) Belgium
7
The novel, Doctor Zhivago, is one of the best-known works by which author?
(a) Boris Pasternak
(b) Fyodor Dostoyevsky
(c) Leo Tolstoy
(d) Alexander Pushkin
8 Calgary is the largest city by population in which Canadian province?
(a) Manitoba (b) Alberta (c) Saskatchewan (d) Ontario
9 Who was named Player of the Match for the first Test in the 2022 series between Australia and Sri Lanka?
(a) Cameron Green
(b) Usman Khawaja
(c) Travis Head
(d) Nathan Lyon
10 The song, Stairway to Heaven, first appeared on a Led Zeppelin album generally known by what name?
(a) Led Zeppelin
(b) Led Zeppelin II
(c) Led Zeppelin III
(d) Led Zeppelin IV
‘Stop. Check. Protect.’ to defend against scams
A NEW awareness campaign will make Australia a tougher target for scammers by arming Australians with the tools they need to put a stop to fraudsters.
The ‘Stop. Check. Protect.’ campaign, launched today by the Federal Government, seeks to tackle the threat of scams by educating the community about sophisticated scam tactics, reminding people that anyone can be vulnerable to scams, and empowering victims to report scams to Scamwatch.
There are three steps to staying safe from scams, which are becoming more and more di cult to spot.
Forty years on, we all still use the iconic ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ message of the 1980s as a handy reminder of how to be sun safe.
Now we need all Australians to ‘Stop. Check. Protect.’ to help keep themselves and others safe from scammers.
Australian consumers have told us that it sometimes feels like scams are everywhere and inevitable.
This campaign will emphasise that we’re not powerless to scammers.
When we’re alert, we’re in control.
And by stopping and checking when we’re unsure, then reporting scams we’ve seen, we can protect ourselves and others against nancial harm.
information to anyone if unsure.
Check: Consider who you’re dealing with and ask yourself, could the message or call be fake?
Protect: Act quickly if something feels wrong. Report scams to Scamwatch. Your report will help us protect others.
Anyone can be the target of a scam at any time.
Scams are crimes – and if you’ve been scammed, you’re a victim of crime.
There’s absolutely nothing to feel ashamed of or embarrassed about – it could happen to any of us.
If you are scammed, or you encounter a scam, please report it to Scamwatch so we can take steps to protect others against nancial harm.
The information you report can provide vital intelligence to help disrupt scams.
Colonel Rodney Walters, The Salvation
To avoid being scammed, the campaign urges all Australians to:
Army
Stop: Don’t give money or personal
Catriona Lowe, ACCC deputy chair
COOL TREAT:
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling.
SURPRISE SNAKE CAUSES A SCENE OUTSIDE LOCAL BUSINESS
By STEVE KELLY
IT wasn’t your usual Friday at RJ Sanderson & Associates accountants when a red-bellied black snake was spotted out the front of the building.
Onlookers began to gather around the location, not far from the Ovens River, to ponder what to do with the snake that appeared to also be unsure of how to return to its natural environment.
A er calls to the local ranger and a snake catcher went unanswered, bystanders were able to improvise and maneouver the reptile into a cardboard box.
Once the lid of the box was securely fastened with duct tape, a brave woman named Amanda put the box in her car and drove it to a safer location for release.
DOORSTOP VISIT: A red-bellied black snake near the front door of a local business caused some commotion on Friday.
Homes selling at right price in buyer’s market
SPECIAL PROPERTY: 268 Oxley Plains Road sold a er 24 days on market for $1,565,000.
SNAPPED UP: 30 Blake Street sold a er 16 days on market for $529,000.
■ From front page
“When building costs experience the growth they have in the last four years people now have a defined limit on how much they spend to build and if they don’t want to over capitalise, that’s probably a good idea.
“We have some landlords who are clearly not happy with the new taxation from the Victorian Government and they are deciding to sell older properties.
“Lots of our investors are looking for cleaner, newer properties and they are not always easy to get centrally.
“Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, medium or smaller sized backyard rent so well in Arlington, Baltimore and Pelican Court.”
According to realestate.com.au, the median price of units and apartments in Wangaratta has fallen 6.2pc from a peak in March 2023 to April 2024, $380,500 to $347,000.
Median house prices in Wangaratta have risen $200,000, while units have jumped $117,000 compared to the preCovid figures.
Four-year disqualification doesn’t stop driver from getting behind the wheel
A MYRTLEFORD man was handed a steep ne for drug driving and speeding while serving a four-year licence disquali cation.
Appearing at Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court on Friday, the court heard the man was served a fouryear driving disquali cation in 2023
The court heard the former Whorouly resident was caught with methamphetamine in his system when police detected him driving while disqualified on June 10. He told police he “didn’t expect it to show up” despite taking the sub-
suspension to serve concurrently with the man’s current driving disquali cation.
“I accept it’s really challenging not to get behind the wheel of a car in the country, but you’ve got to rely on family and friends now,” she said.
Wangaratta woman refused bail after major drug bust
A WANGARATTA woman accused of tra cking three times the commercial quantity of 1.4 Butanediol was brought to tears as she was refused bail.
Appearing at Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court via video link from Wangaratta custody on Friday, the 28-year-old was visibly shaken a er Magistrate Megan Casey found no exceptional circumstances for her release.
Informant Detective Senior Constable Neal Thompson of Wangaratta Crime Investigation Unit told the court of two major alleged drug busts of the defendant’s Wangaratta homes while she was on bail.
On October 3 last year detectives searched a Wangaratta address where they located black wrapping packages for an alleged six litres of 1.4 Butanediol underneath the oor of a linen closet.
Police seized three litres of the alleged drug from the premises and alleged a further three litres of 1.4 Butanediol had already been distributed.
Multiple ID cards of an unknown party and the defendant’s mobile phone were also seized and analysed.
Det Sen Const Thompson said phone analysis showed the 28-year-
old in talks with a seller from online Chinese marketplace Alibaba, making the order of the drugs over a WhatsApp conversation.
It is alleged in the messages the defendant discussed labelling the packages di erent to the 1.4 Butanediol purchased.
Det Sen Const Thompson said the parcel was allegedly collected from Australia Post by a co-o ender who was messaged by the 28-year-old to collect the package.
The defendant gave a no comment interview when arrested and was released, only to be taken back into custody on January 9.
Det Sen Const Thompson said days earlier police intercepted a man carrying a package from a Australia Post O ce on Vincent Road and attempted to ee o cers.
The court heard he was caught at the alleged o ender’s new address with the package in his bag, which allegedly contained two litres of 1.4 Butanediol, purchased from the same alleged marketplace.
Det Sen Const Thompson said detectives searched the address on January 9 to allegedly nd two litres of 1.4 Butanediol along with smaller amounts of methamphetamine, Diazepam and other prescribed medi-
cation disguised as 1.4 Butanediol.
Det Sen Const Thompson said there was “clearly a criminal element of deceit” in alleged behaviours including the ordering of the packages containing the illicit substances, and making small changes to her address or phone number on the orders to avoid detection.
“I would regard this your more sophisticated o ending than your simple street dealing,” he said.
“She clearly has a drug addiction problem.
“My concerns are she’ll continue to commit drug o ences if she makes bail and given the seriousness of the current charges and the pending investigation, I’m concerned she would not appear at a later court date.”
Det Sen Const Thompson said police investigations into the transactions between the defendant and the alleged supplier of the drugs were ongoing and it was possible more packages could be on their way to the address.
Defence counsel Nancy Battiato conceded a strong case was made on the serious allegations, but she said it was “not a forgone conclusion” it would result in jail time.
Police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon said 94.4 per cent of
drug tra cking charges of a similar manner resulted in imprisonment.
“The sheer quantity of drugs and the fact she was on bail at the time makes a custodial sentence rmly within range,” she said.
“Police are concerned bailing her back to her home would be like bailing her back to her shopfront.
“Tra cking, possessing and using drugs of dependence has an impact on the community.”
The court heard the 28-year-old had limited but relevant prior charges of drug possession and non-compliance while on bail.
Ms Battiato said her client had strong family support and had agreed to seek drug and alcohol counselling to address her drug use and mental health.
Magistrate Megan Casey refused bail and said it would be “almost inevitable” she would be jailed if found guilty.
“Tra cking a commercial quantity of any drugs of dependence is a serious matter,” she said.
“I’m not satis ed there are bail conditions that could stop this behaviour.”
The matter will return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on April 3 for committal mention.
Birdscarers must be appropriately used: EPA
EPA Victoria North East region is visiting local farmers and orchardists to remind them about the regulations for the use of birdscarer guns.
Wangaratta-based EPA North East regional manager Narelle Watters said anyone using scare guns to frighten birds away from their crops must follow the regulations governing their use.
“We o en receive complaints about excessive noise, including from bird scarers, especially at this time of the year,” she said.
“It’s important to protect crops but scare guns can’t be used overly frequently or at the wrong hour of the day.
“Our noise logging equipment measures noise levels and we o en hear bird scarers going o within the permitted 100db level, but as much as ve times more frequently than they should...and sometimes well past midnight.”
Sandra has helped play key role in ensuring choir set for opera
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
By JAMIE KRONBORG
BEECHWORTH again is alert to music as the community prepares to host a performance by young opera scholars tomorrow and Australian Music Events’ annual Opera in the Alps on Saturday.
A full symphony orchestra, 100-voice choir and two of the stars of opera and music theatre –David Hobson and Sylvie Paladino – will perform in the main event at Baarmutha Park. Helping the chorus to rehearse is North East pianist Sandra Williams, who is acting as accompanist.
Ms Williams met AME director Graeme Wall last year at Beechworth’s Christ Church – where she is director of music – when plans were being made to rehearse the company’s opera scholars in the heritage building.
“Conversation soon revealed
that we had in fact been studying for our music degrees at Melbourne University at the same time all those years ago,” Ms Williams said.
“So it was very pleasant to reminisce about our conservatorium teachers and where our music careers had taken us.
“As well as having a background as a teacher and accompanist in the classical idiom, I’ve long since worked as a professional pianist and band musician in Sydney clubs and more recently in theatre company musicals in the border region, so I was delighted to be asked to be rehearsal pianist for the Opera in the Alps’ choir this week.
“I’m going to really enjoy the beautiful music from opera and musicals this coming Saturday night.”
AME’s Opera Scholars will present ‘Voices in the twilight’ at the George Kerferd Hotel at Mayday Hills tomorrow at 5.30pm – a performance that taps the developing voice skills and techniques of young scholars, who this year number 26.
Music lovers are also again able to attend Opera in the Alps’ dress rehearsal on Friday at Baarmutha Park at 8.15pm, as well as Saturday’s full performance. For information and bookings go to www.beechworthonline.com.au or telephone 1300 366 321.
EPA noise guidelines are available at https://www. epa.vic.gov.au/about-epa/ publications/1254-1 and provide good advice about using devices like bird scarers. Guidelines for the control of noise from scareguns
A scare gun must not be used if the distance between the scare gun and any nearby properties is less than 300m.
The scare gun must not emit more than 70 blasts/day.
The scare gun must not be used earlier than 7am or later than sunset. Earlier starting times will be allowed if this is agreed to by the complainants.
The total time of operation of a scare gun must not exceed 12 hours in any one day. However, the time of operation may be divided into two separate periods, provided the interval between blasts is not less than six minutes.
The scare gun must be located as far away as possible from any complainant’s house.
Wherever possible, the shielding e ects of natural features, buildings and so on shall be used to reduce the level of the blasts at complainants’ houses.
Wherever possible, the use of the scare gun shall be minimised.
Call the Wangaratta Chronicle on (03) 57230113 or
BIG STAGE: Beechworth pianist Sandra Williams is this week rehearsing with the 100-voice choir that will perform at Opera in the Alps in Beechworth on Saturday.
PHOTO: Wendy Stephens
Wangaratta Players presents Baskerville
WANGARATTA Players Inc. will present the Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville - A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, at the Stage Door Studio from February 7 to 23.
From the multi-awardwinning playwright comes a fast-paced adventure about everyone’s favourite detective duo Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson as they endeavour to crack the mystery of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” before a family curse dooms its newest heir.
Watch as the intrepid investigators try to escape a dizzying web of clues, silly accents, disguises and deceit as five actors deftly portray more than 40 characters.
Shows will be held on February 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7.30pm and on February 16 and 23 at 2pm with tickets available now at trybooking. com/CXPSH.
See the Australian INXS Tribute Show
THE Australian INXS Tribute Show, fronted by Dellacoma Rio, will arrive at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, February 13 at 7.30pm.
The show is a fully immersive “Wembley Style” INXS experience featuring an original video show as well as a fully authentic six-piece lineup delivering the songs that made INXS a household name. Tickets are available now by visiting wpacc.com.au.
Limelight Touring performs Grace in February
INDEPENDENT local theatre company Limelight Touring Company will perform Australian playwright Katy Warner’s play Grace at local venues during February.
Directed by Kirsty Woods, Grace tells the story of Emma who has finally ‘made it’ and is about to receive the Hans Christian Andersen Award – the ‘Little Nobel Prize’ of children’s fiction.
With her mother, Beth, by her side to share in the moment, Emma is ready to celebrate the pinnacle of her career in a luxury Copenhagen hotel until an unexpected visitor disrupts Emma’s plans and threatens to upend her future.
Starring Colette Quin, Laura Gundrill and Brenda Spilva, Grace will open on February 7 and will visit The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on February 13, with tickets for all shows available now by visiting limelighttouring.com.
Lyster Opera returns with a Mozart classic
By SHANE DOUTHIE
THE popular Lyster Opera returns to the Milawa Hall in March for its third performance, this time presenting The Abduction from the Seraglio by Mozart.
The previous two performances have virtually been sell-outs, and this production again combining glorious music with farcical comedy is sure to be just as popular.
Mozart’s music for this hysterical romance set in a Turkish harem is said to have raised German singspiel (spoken dialogue alternated with songs or arias) to the level of great art without altering its traditional features.
The story concerns the attempt of the hero Belmonte, assisted by his servant Pedrillo, to rescue his beloved Constanze from the seraglio (harem) of Pasha Selim.
The opera loosely refers to the practice of the North African Barbary corsairs, who operated primarily in the western Mediterranean, of hijacking ships belonging to Christian states.
Under the pretext of jihad, the ship and cargo were sold or returned only a er a ransom was paid.
The actual goal, however, was the kidnapping of crew and passengers, to extort ransom money or to sell them into slavery.
The Abduction from the Seraglio is recognised as Mozart’s rst major opera which led him to compose his more renowned works such as Don Giovanni, Cosi fan Tutte, The Marriage of Figaro and The Magic Flute.
Lyster Opera director Jamie Mo at said those who enjoyed the company’s performance of The Italian Girl in Algiers back in September would certainly warm to the coming production.
“It’s vaudevillian in style, it’s the silliest of stories but with endishly di cult music,” Mo at said.
“The thing about Mozart is his music is so accessible.
“It was Mozart’s rst really big one that set him o to do his other great works.
“It’s more character driven and it shows a young composer just nding out what he can do.”
He said The Abduction from
the Seraglio was another perfect vehicle for Lyster Opera to continue bringing lesser known but thoroughly entertaining works to regional audiences.
“We’re trying to dispel the belief of opera as being so sophisticated,” Mo at said.
“Mozart didn’t write it to bore himself, he wrote it for people to have a great time.”
Such is the demand on the performers with the work requiring two tenors, two sopranos and a bass, Mo at decided to have two casts.
“Finding even one cast capable of doing the opera justice can prove di cult but we’ve been incredibly lucky,” he said.
“I couldn’t believe the quality of the performers who came forward.”
The cast includes Hew Wagner who played Lindoro in The Italian Girl in Algiers at Milawa in September.
“We always get a great reception at Milawa, it’s a fantastic place for us to visit,” Mo at said.
“When we did the ‘Italian Girl’ there someone wrote under the poster how wonderful it was and how they would tell all their friends who didn’t go what they had missed out on.”
The Abduction from the Seraglio by Mozart will be performed on Saturday, March 22 at 2pm at Milawa Town Hall.
Tickets ranges from $30 to $40 and are available at lysteropera. com.au or by calling 0410 0890 388.
NGV Kids on Tour at the gallery
WANGARATTA Art Gallery will present the very popular National Gallery of Victoria Kids on Tour 2025 program on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16. This year the NGV Kids on Tour 2025 workshops will feature free art-making activities and games facilitated by educators David Godkin and Glenis Rice, designed to engage and inspire every child and parent attending with a variety of themes and art making techniques.
Places are limited and bookings are essential (children under eight must be accompanied by an adult) by visiting wangarattaartgallery.com.au/Programs/ NGV-KIDS-on-Tour-2025-Workshops.
Blues Night at the Cornishtown Hall
COME and enjoy the blues of Stue Hughes and The Blues Cruise, Adam Waldron and Paul Wookey at the Cornishtown Hall on Saturday, February 8 from 6.30pm. Tickets (from $60 per person) include a traditional spit roast meal and blues under the stars with all proceeds going towards upkeep and improvements at the hall. To find out more or to purchase tickets email rcprock@icloud.com or visit the Cornishtown Hall on Facebook.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) It’s a good time to take a much-needed break from your recent hectic schedule and spend some time in quieter surroundings. Important news could arrive early next week.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The Taurean traits of reliability and thoroughness could be well-tested when decision-makers consider your proposals and/or requests. Be prepared to answer some probing questions.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A sudden attack of boredom leaves you with some tasks undone. It’s OK to take a short respite, but get back to work by week’s end so that you have time for other projects.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Avoid prejudging a situation just because it looks bad. Facts could emerge that can make your position uncomfortable, to say the least. Meanwhile, a relative has interesting news to share with you.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time to begin reassessing some of your recent decisions about your long-range goals to see if they still have merit. In addition, spend more time with loved ones this weekend.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unsettled situation at home or on the job early in the week could drain your energy levels, making it difficult to get your work done on schedule. But things improve by midweek.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A temporary setback could give you time to go over your plans to find weaknesses that you might have overlooked before. Also, a romantic getaway with a special person is favored this weekend.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Professional and personal situations benefit you once you set a positive tone in getting things off to a good start. Honest dialogue smooths over any occasional display of balkiness.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A problem with workplace colleagues or family members seems to defy even your sage counsel. But be patient. Your words will eventually lead to a resolution.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Don’t just wait out an unexpected and unexplained delay in your career move. You could gain added respect if you ask why it happened and what you can do to move things along.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Although your workplace strategies are usually accepted, you could be challenged by someone who isn’t so favorably impressed. Be prepared to defend your positions.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your friendship circle expands with new people coming into your life at this time. Welcome them warmly, but don’t neglect cherished longtime personal relationships.
RETURN BY POPULAR DEMAND: Sarah Jane Pattichis who is singing the role of Constanza in the operas at Milawa.
KING VALLEY NEWS
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
Go troppo at the Moyhu Lions Market this Saturday
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
AS we settle into summer, the Moyhu Lions are celebrating the season with a Hawaiian-themed market on Saturday morning at the Moyhu Lions Park from 8am until 12pm.
It’s the opportunity for everyone to get out their Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts and sarongs, put a ower behind their ear, wear a lei and maybe even play the ukulele, for the chance to win a prize in the best-dressed competition, to be judged at around 10.30am.
It will be the rst market for the year and with perfect weather forecast and around 20 plus stall holders set to attend, it promises to be a fun way to get 2025 started, as the local Lions focus on expanding the monthly event.
Lion Max Baker said the December market was a roaring success, with catering volunteers serving up 11 dozen eggs to visitors who thoroughly enjoyed their freshly cooked Lions breakfast.
“It ended up being our second biggest market of the year (a er the Easter event) and it was really beyond our expectations,” he said.
“This month we’ll also have Bruschetta on the menu as a special for visitors.”
Fellow Lion Nicole Lindsay, who is among the small but dedi-
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club activities have recommenced this week for 2025.
The group will host lunch at the Wangaratta Club today from 12 noon. Indoor carpet bowls will be held on Thursday from 1pm, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 1pm, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street.
A mystery bus trip will be held next Wednesday, January 22, leaving the Swan Street car park at 9.45am.
GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.
The competition runs until 3.30pm-4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. New players welcome. Phone Frank on 0409 662 462.
COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am. Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.
WANGARATTA AL–Anon Family Group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick‘s Hall in Ford Street.
All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else‘s drinking, this group may be for you.
cated group of volunteers working to grow the market and build its base of stalls, said a few new and returning stall holders - as well as innovations including special attractions and a monthly ra e - are helping to draw more people in.
“We are trying to do a bit more marketing and get the word out via Facebook and through the media, reaching out to Mans eld, Benalla and up to Albury to broaden our horizons,” she said.
“There is no charge for stall holders who want to take part, so we have a few who came last year and were really happy with how it went, and plan to come back again this year.”
One of the returning stall hold-
Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828, or phone 1300 252 666.
PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am. Those who are able meet at the main entrance at 9.30am for a 30-minute river walk prior to coffee. Contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.
CYCLING Without Age Wangaratta offers free tri–shaw rides to the elderly, and to people of any age with disabilities or reduced mobility. Phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com.
PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. The group will start up again on January 21. Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. Enquiries to 0407 311 899.
WANGARATTA Old Time/New Vogue Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street. Admission is $10, please bring a plate of supper to share. Entry also includes raffle ticket and lucky door prize. Phone 0431 190 630 for more information.
THE North Eastern branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria meets
ers to this Saturday’s market is Sprockett’s, who will have free range eggs and chooks for sale, coming at a good time for those nding it a little harder to get eggs.
There will also be Salus bread, baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, preserves, olive oil, plants and seedlings and handcra ed items, plus the chance to secure a duck from the King River and District Fishing Club in time for the Rubber Duck Regatta on January 25.
Another successful addition to the monthly market has been the ra e of an “essentials” prize, which this month is a $100 voucher to spend at Coles.
Nicole said the club is trying to
SOCIAL CALENDAR
save money for a new food van, but funds raised are also spent on other community projects and initiatives, including supplying fuel vouchers to local people who need to travel for medical treatment.
She said being able to help others is why they are members of the Lions, and anyone who is interested in joining - or would simply like to help out for an hour or two - is encouraged to contact them.
Find out more by visiting the club’s Facebook page, while stall bookings can be made by calling Donna on 5729 7563.
All are welcome to the Moyhu Country Market being held on Saturday, January 18 from 8am to 12pm.
every fourth Tuesday at the Masonic Lodge in Appin St, Wangaratta. The group will break for December and return on January 28.
Beginners and experienced embroiderers welcome from 9.30am. Contact Jen on 0407 560562.
WANGARATTA Newcomers will hold its next get-together at Intermezzo Café on Thursday, February 6 from 2pm to 3.30pm - join the group for a cuppa, a chat and to meet some new people. For more information, phone Susan on 0412 497 183, Joy on 0401 843 815 or Ann on 0435 275 864.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club will start back after the holiday break on Monday, February 3.
CENTRE Quilters Circle, which meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, will take a break for January, returning on February 13. New members welcome, current members are willing to share their expertise and skills. BYO lunch. Contact Wendy on 5722 4415 or Leonie on 0403 226 129.
Rubber Duck Regatta on January 25
THE King River and District Fishing Club will hold its annual Rubber Duck Regatta on Saturday, January 25 at Gentle Annie Caravan and Camping Reserve in Whitfield.
All are welcome to join the fun with a barbecue from 12.30pm and prizes to be awarded for Best Dressed and Pimp-A-Duck.
Ducks are available now for adoption for $5, with the race to be run at 2.30pm on the day and the chance to win a prize valued at $500, and more information is available on the club’s Facebook page.
Moyhu Lions Australia Day
THE Moyhu Lions Club will host an Australia Day breakfast in the Moyhu Lions Park on Sunday, January 26 from 8.30am.
Supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, the community is invited to attend with a sausage sizzle and johnny cakes provided, before the local awards presentation.
King Valley Arts Film Club
THE next screening of the King Valley Arts Film Club will be held on Tuesday, February 11, with doors open from 7pm, at the Cheshunt Hall cinema.
The film will be The Taste of Things, a 2024 French historical romantic drama directed by Tran Anh Hung, which is set in 1889 and depicts a romance between cook Eugenie (Juliette Binoche), and Dodin (Benoît Magimel), the famous gourmet she works for.
Annual film club membership is just $40 per person which entitles you to attend any or all of the six films screened bi-monthly per year, available by visiting https://kingvalleyarts. com.au/film-club/.
WANGARATTA Orchid Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6.30pm in St Patrick’s supper room, off Ford Street. Meetings include flower shows and talks, and everyone is welcome. Phone Hans on 0428 119 737.
OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta. The group will be back on February 4.
New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.
WANGARATTA Toastmasters meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street. The group will take a break over the festive period, returning on February 12.
For more information, contact Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral, with a break over the festive season until February 5.
All welcome. For details, call Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
WANGARATTA table tennis weekly social competition is held on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon at
the Wangaratta Showgrounds table tennis pavilion.
All ages and abilities welcome, bats and balls provided, $2 entry. Contact Maxine Miller on 0403 209 857.
WANG Ukes meets on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Masonic Lodge in Appin Street. The group will break until February 28.
All abilities welcome, phone 0407 311 899 for more information.
WANGARATTA Artists Society Inc provides a supportive environment for local artists to work on their projects, welcoming beginners to experienced individuals. It hosts workshops led by experienced artists in various mediums throughout the year, and the studio is equipped to cater to artists and their artistic endeavours.
For more information, contact Robyn on 0412 291 066.
WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present).
The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 5pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. Contact Bevan on 0437 196 118.
TROPICAL VIBES: Moyhu Lions Nicole Lindsay and Max Baker invite everyone to have fun and embrace the Hawaiian theme at the market on Saturday. PHOTO: Anita McPherson
IN PERSON BY PHONE
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
& SERVICES
Have you adopted your dog, through an adoption agency in the last 6 months?
Apply now to claim your free training session!
There are 5 free training sessions a month.
There is also one Full Scholarship of ongoing training position open at a time.
Phone: 0434 189 452 www.thedoggiediplomat.com
BATHROOM renovations, carpentry and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
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.
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.
TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED
For the 2025 Grape Season. MUST BE OR HAVE: CURRENT HC LICENCE, OVER 25 YEARS OLD, FORKLIFT LICENCE, EXPERIENCED WITH GENERAL FREIGHT. APPROXIMATELY 8 WEEKS WORK, STARTING EARLY FEB. Above Award Wages for the right applicants. PHONE GREG 0429 306 679 or email jenveytransport@gmail.com
CHECK OUT OUR NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities.
LUTTGENS, Margaret Mary. 18/7/1935 - 8/1/2025
Passed away peacefully in Wangaratta. Devoted daughter of Frank and Dorothy Luttgens (both dec).
Loved sister of Frank (dec), Joan (dec) and Eileen.
Cherished Aunt of Pauline, Jennifer, Peter and Michael Luttgens; Tracey, Dean and Lisa Burgess; Denise and David Gandolfo. In God’s care.
WISE, Keith. Wangaratta Fire brigade are saddened at the passing of our longstanding life member Keith Wise.
With over 60 years of service to the CFA, Keith’s legacy will be enduring. We send our love and support to Dorothy and the extended Wise family.
Appin Park Wangaratta
WISE, Keith.
Rotarians and families from the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta are saddened by the recent passing of past Rotarian Keith Wise.
Condolences are extended to Dorothy and Keith’s family and friends during this di cult time.
CAMPBELL
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr Keith Cuming “Sandy” Campbell will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home, 81 Baddaginnie-Benalla Road, Benalla on Monday, January 20, 2025 commencing at 11am. In lieu of owers, donations to Breast Cancer Foundation in memory of Sandy’s Mum would be preferred. Envelopes available at the Chapel. Private cremation.
LUTTGENS
Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mary Luttgens will be o ered in St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ford Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, January 23, 2025 commencing at 10am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of owers a donation in memory of Mary to St Patricks Church would be appreciated.
Mary’s Mass can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/ Rosary will be recited in Delany Chapel, Ryley Street Wangaratta on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 commencing at 6pm. Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
GLENN O’CONNELL
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Kurt Hickling made his way to Jubilee Golf Club and to Merriwa Park on Saturday to capture some of the action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle office on Rowan Street.
GARY WALDER
JOHN SHANLEY
ALEX JONES
GORDON PATTERSON
AMY LAIRSON
SIMONE WESTON
JOEL EULENSTEIN
LEE FREELAND
GLENN RYAN
WLTCP aggregate tennis returns
THE sun was shining for round 12 of the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s aggregate competition, the rst meeting in the new year.
In section one, Kevin Callahan held rm with 22-11 to nish just ahead of Ryan Patterson (20-14).
Mark Brown (16-17), Brian Scobie (15-16) and Michael Ibbot (9-24) were still shaking o the holiday lethargy but performed well to close out the section.
Shane Flynn was far and away the best in section two, nishing with 22-12, but he was pushed all the way by Dave Postlethwaite (2017) and Mario Pane (20-18).
Mike Lairson (16-19) and Frank Harris (12-24) brought up the rear.
It was a similar story in section three, with the top competitors hardly able to be separated.
Ian McDonald took top honours with a handy 22-15, slightly ahead of Thomas McDonald on 21-16.
Ashley Weston broke even on 1818, slightly up on Michael Falkenberg (18-19), with Russell Canning nishing with 13-24.
Andrew Cope took out section four, finishing with 23-16, only one game up on Peter Curran (2218).
Maree Sullivan was in the mix with 21-21, while Mark Gorman and Pat Flynn nished with 12-22 and 17-23, respectively.
Section ve saw Joel Eulenstein and Beth Cope share top place, unable to be separated.
The pair both nished with 21-13, more than accounting for the rest of section ve.
Amy Lairson took the bronze medal with 14-18, while Simone Weston and Alan Busk also tied with 13-19.
Section six was convincingly won by John Shanley with 22-11, who nished well ahead of Terry Flynn on 20-15.
Geo Davidson evened the ledger with 18-18, while Max McAuli e (13-20) and Des Steele (13-22) rounded out the group.
Results
Section: 1
Kevin Callahan 22-11, Ryan Patterson 20-14, Mark Brown 16-17, Brian Scobie 15-16, Michael Ibbot 9-24.
Section: 2
Shane Flynn 22-12, Dave Postlethwaite 20-17, Mario Pane 20-18, Mike Lairson 16-19, Frank Harris 12-24.
Section: 3
Ian McDonald 22-15, Thomas McDonald 21-16, Ashley Weston 18-18,
Michael Falkenberg 18-19, Russell Canning 13-24.
Section: 4
Andrew Cope 23-16, Peter Curran 22-18, Maree Sullivan 21-21, Mark Gorman 17-22, Pat Flynn 17-23.
Section: 5
Joel Eulenstein 21-13, Beth Cope 21-13, Amy Lairson 14-18, Simone Weston 13-19, Alan Busk 13-19.
Section: 6
John Shanley 22-11, Terry Flynn 20-15, Geo Davidson 18-18, Max McAuli e 13-20, Des Steele 13-22.
ACED: Kevin Callahan took out section one with a score of 22-11.
Nominations open for 2024 Victorian Sport Awards
IF you know of someone who deserves recognition at your sporting club, now’s the time to throw their hat in the ring.
Presented by the Victorian Government and Vicsport, nominations open on Wednesday, January 15 for the Victorian Sport Awards (VSAs), which acknowledges the full spectrum of Victorian sport across all levels during the 2024 calendar year.
The most prestigious night for the state’s sporting and active recreation community, the VSAs recognises and celebrates those who made an outstanding contribution to Victorian sport during 2024 by honouring the grassroots heroes who excelled at a community level, high-performance athletes who shone at a national and international level and everyone in between.
categories, covering everything from coaching and playing to administration and inclusion at grassroots level.
May 14 in the Members Dining Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
All nalists, family, friends, sporting organisations and clubs are invited to attend the VSAs and celebrate the successes of sport in Victoria.
Wang Hardcourt making moves in NERTA
ROUND 11 of the North East Regional Tennis Association season was played on the weekend with results as follows.
Results
With 18 awards presented, individual and team athletes, coaches, o cials, volunteers, administrators, media personnel and the initiatives that ensure Victorians remain active will all be recognised.
The nomination process is open to all members of the public, and nominations can be submitted via the Vicsport website between Wednesday, January 15 and Friday, February 14.
“In partnership with the Victorian Government, Vicsport is
thrilled to once again recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our state’s sport and recreation community at the Victorian Sport Awards,” Vicsport chair Jason Hellwig said.
“The premier event on the Victorian sporting calendar, it is a special night where we have the opportunity to honour the grassroots heroes who keep our sport and recreation sector thriving as well as the high-performance athletes who starred on the world stage at
events such as the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
“With 18 awards on o er, I strongly urge all Victorians to submit their nominations to ensure their sport is well represented on the night.”
Following the closure of nominations a er Friday, February 14, four nalists for each of the 18 awards will be decided by esteemed judging panels and announced in March before the winners are revealed on Wednesday,
Categories in the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards are as follows: Leasexpress Coach of the Year, Gallagher Community Coach of the Year, Sports Accounting Australia O cial of the Year, etrainu Community O cial of the Year, AFL SportsReady Young Team of the Year, AED Authority Team of the Year, My Sport Live Community Sporting Event of the Year, Love the Game Community Sporting Club of the Year, revolutioniseSPORT Victorian Sports Administrator of the Year – Eunice Gill Award, Bunnings Trade Local Government Initiative of the Year, VAILO Volunteer of the Year, VicHealth Sport and Active Recreation Initiative of the Year, Involve Masters Athlete of the Year, rebel Young Athlete of the Year, Outstanding Media Coverage of Sport Award, Polytan Peter Norman Inclusion Award, Frank Wilkes Award, Kitty McEwan Award.
More information on the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards can be found at http://vicsport.com. au/2024-vsas.
Section A Wang Hardcourt 5-47 def Boorhaman 1-32, Corowa Blue 6-48 def Everton Blue 0-16, Corowa Red 3-35 def Everton Red 3-33.
Section B
Corowa United Red 3-37 def Wahgunyah Warriors 3-34, Wooragee Blue 6-48 def Corowa United Yellow 0-25, Wahnation 5-41 def Wahgunyah Deep heat 1-29, Wahgunyah Red 6-48 def Wooragee Red 0-12
LADDERS
Section A Corowa Blue 49.5, Corowa Red 46.5, Wang Hardcourt 45.5, Everton Red 36, Everton Blue 21, Boorhaman 11.5.
Section B
Wahgunyah Red 59, Wooragee Blue 45, Wahgunyah Warriors 36, Corowa United Red 36, Wahnation 33.5, Wooragee Red 24.5, Wahgunyah Deep Heat 19, Corowa United Yellow 4.
Under 15
Wahgunyah Black 30, Corowa Demons 24, Rutherglen 22, Wahgunyah Gold 13, Corowa Popyrin 6.
PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
UP FOR AN AWARD: There are 18 Victorian Sport Awards
PHOTO: Janet Watt
Raring to race on Aus Day weekend
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WANGARATTA City Raceway will launch back into their racing season in ne fashion, with two humungous race days across the Australia Day weekend.
On Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26, the track will be set alight with two state titles and plenty of fun and games for the whole family.
The Sports Sedans Australia Steet Stocks Victoria Title, the SSA Junior Victorian Title, and SSA Production Sedans will all be tearing up the track across the blockbuster weekend.
Wangaratta City Raceway secretary Felicity Roycro said it was an event not to be missed.
“It’s a few big, big days,” she said.
“We’ve got the Australia Day double titles, the junior Sedans Victoria title and we’ve also got the Street Stock Victoria titles – two titles on one weekend, so we’re going to have two title winners walking away from the weekend crowned as Victorian Number 1.
“So far, we’ve got 60 cars, but the nominations aren’t closed yet so we expect them to still grow.
“We’d like to have 100 cars in the pits, we would easily t 100 cars in the pit but at the same time we’re happy with 60, we’re happy just to be able to have an event like this at Wangaratta.
“To have it at Wangaratta is huge –on the same weekend, together, it’s going to be amazing.”
The family atmosphere of the club will be on full display across the weekend, with plenty of fun activities for the kids to enjoy, such as bike races and face painting.
“I know there is going to be a lot of people coming, camping, people are booking out motels,” Roycro said.
“The pits will be open from 12pm, we’re going to have a pit walk from 3pm on Saturday, an appreciation
hour from about 5pm on the Sunday.
“We’ve got kids’ bike races, we’ve got face painting, we’ve got jumping castles, we’ve got a food van, merchandise stands.
“We’ve got so much for the kids to do, it’s not just going to be the race.
“We’re trying to make it as interactive as possible, so if kids have never been to the speedway before, this is one race meeting they’d want to be at because it’s going to be so interactive for the kids.
“It’s de nitely one for the family to come down and watch.”
While the activities around the
speedway will be well-attended, the main event will be on the track.
The club’s juniors will be up against some of the best in the business, vying for that illustrious ‘Victoria 1’.
Roycro said there would be plenty of locals to cheer on across the race card.
“We’ve got juniors coming from all over Australia,” she said.
“The current ‘Australia 1’ (national champion) who was crowned last weekend, he’s a Western Australian kid, he’s coming over to Wangaratta to compete in the Victorian titles.
“You’ve got Cooper Lack, he’s just stepped up to juniors, this’ll be his rst time in Top Stars and he’s going to have a good old crack.
“Taijan Ussher has stepped up as well, you’ve got Zack Erickson, he’s another junior local to Wangaratta.
“You’ve also got the likes of Shane Roycro , Matt Brook, Oggie Ahearn (racing across the weekend).”
Wangaratta City Raceway’s next race meeting is across Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26. For more information, visit the Wangaratta City Raceway on Facebook.
Wangaratta, O&M netballers off to Wagga for SSN curtain raiser clash
■ From back page
Excitement is already at a fever pitch, with general admission tickets selling out within 10 minutes of going on sale.
Matthews said the opportunity to play new opponents is invaluable for the league and players alike, with more events involving O&M and Riverina a possibility in the future.
“We see it as incredibly important in promoting and growing not only the O&M brand but exposing our players to a new competition against a di erent competitor,” she said.
“We have some players in our competition who make a huge commitment to travel and play VNL each week but outside of that there are limited representative opportunities for our Open players - we have Interleague and Association Championships in Melbourne each year but that is it.
“To then be the curtain raiser to the best netball competition in Australia is a privilege and hopefully exposes the players and talent we have.
“It would be wonderful to see more SSN games in regional areas and I think the uptake in ticket sales just con rms the thirst for this.
“It is certainly a great opportunity to collaborate with a new region and league - we are unsure what the interleague landscape looks like for O&M post 2025 and this may be something we can explore.”
Junior Country Week in full flight as across the region
JUNIOR cricketers recommenced their representative seasons on Sunday, taking on Cricket Albury Wodonga sides in Junior Country week.
The Under 12 Blue side bounced back from a three-wicket loss to CAW Thunder on Sunday to record a crushing eight-wicket win over WDCA Gold on Monday.
The derby win was steered by George Pfahlert (33*) and Patrick Coleman (26*), who helped chase down Gold’s 10/175 just two down in the 20th over.
The Under 13 Blue side is undefeated from their rst two games.
They successfully defended their 7/162 total against CAW Thunder, with runs coming from vice-captain Byron Dodd (43) and Louis Sanderson (38*), before keeping Thunder to 7/101.
Finn Mitchell was the pick of the bowlers with 2/8 from his three overs, while Billy McMahon picked up 2/21.
The Thunder will meet WDCA Gold next, who have yet to record a win despite strong batting, especially from Thomas Snell who made a half century in the Under 13 derby.
In the under 14 division, WDCA Gold are within striking distance of the grand nal following a comprehensive win over WDCA Blue on Monday at Norm Minns Oval.
Gold made 121 all out from 38 overs, with solid knocks from Luke O’Brien (35) and Kobe Ackroyd (20).
Taylor Thomson was unstoppable for WDCA Blue, taking 4/12 from eight overs.
In reply, WDCA Blue were bowled out for just 70 runs, with Harrison Skelton (4/15) and Luca Solimo (3/10) doing the damage.
The under 15s sit in the middle of the table, with a narrow win and a tight loss so far.
WDCA lost by four wickets to CAW Thunder, with Noah White (48) and Nicholas Hoskin (47) on re with the willow, and Hugh Spring taking 2/11, before edging out CAW Stars.
Noah White again was top scorer, making 69 runs from 60 deliveries to help his side post 10/163.
Kai Dervish backed White up with the ball, taking 4/8 from just three overs to knock Stars over for 153.
Junior Country Week will continue on Wednesday, January 15.
RISING STAR: Wangaratta member Will Fallon will be in action across the Australia Day weekend at Wangaratta City Raceway hosts two state titles.
PHOTO: J&V Parker
FIELDED: Samuel Elkington gathers the ball.
PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
SHOT: Harris Bruneau hits a crisp cover drive in the Under 14 Junior Country Week WDCA derby.
■
POWER HIT
MAX McAuli e lines up a booming forehand in the first round of WLTCP aggregate tennis in the new year.
TWO local netballers have been picked to represent the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League in an exhibition match with a Riverina side.
Wangaratta’s Hannah Grady and Leah Jenvey will join the team, comprised of 2024 O&M Team of the Year players and representative netballers in Wagga Wagga on Sunday, February 9.
Magpie Issy Newton was also named in the Team of the Year, but will not play as she is recovering from a knee reconstruction.
Wangaratta, O&M netballers o to Wagga for SSN curtain raiser clash
BY
NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
The O&M squad will take on some of the best netballers from AFL Riverina as a curtain raiser match for the GIANTS Netball and Melbourne Vixens Suncorp Super Netball preseason bout.
O&M netball director and team manager
Tamara Matthews said she was looking forward to showcasing the best of the region on a massive stage.
“The O&MFNL were contacted by Wagga City Council in December and invited to participate - a player and coach in our league (Corowa-Rutherglen’s Sally Hunter) lives and works in Wagga so I think that was the connection that enabled this to happen,” she said.
“From our perspective
the exhibition match has provoked a lot of excitement from both players and the community.
“I know there are many who are travelling to Wagga to see not only the main game but also watch our O&M side in action.
“The players were all very keen to be involved and showcase our league and talent.”
The match will be a true unknown for the O&M side,
as they rarely compete against teams to the north.
“It is di cult to gauge how the teams compare because we do not ever really play against teams from the Wagga region,” Matthews said.
“The opposition are very unknown which I think is refreshing and adds to the excitement.
“We expect our team to perform very well based on the talent we have.
“I was personally very excited when they (Grady and Jenvey) committedthey are both formidable players in our competition and are true leaders in the way in which they play and conduct themselves on and o the court.
“They will provide great leadership to our young and upcoming players and will relish the indoor conditions.”
■ Continued page 15
Results page 14. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling