The hometown derby between Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies certainly got the 2025 O&MFNL season o to a flying start infront of a large crowd at the WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday.
Pre-match ceremonies such as Rovers’ unfurling their 2024 premiership flag, naming the oval’s city-end square in honour of late club legend Steve Norman, and noting Brodie Filo’s 500th senior game, added to the tension of the senior footy.
It was a close match all day, with players - such as Cameron Barrett and Rovers’ Samuel Cattapanputting their bodies on the line.
While Rovers held a three point lead at half time, Magpies turned a one point lead at three quarter time into a two goal victory15.8.98 to 13.8.86.
■ Story back page PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
3
Vintage delight
Flavour shines through for 2025 grape harvest in King Valley, with some saying ‘best ever’
EXCITEMENT is bubbling around the 2025 wine vintage in the King Valley growing region.
O the back of a long Indian summer the North East has experienced with generally well timed rain events, the ideal conditions have any discerning wine connoisseur warming up
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
their palate in anticipation for the nished product to be bottled later this year.
Wines of the King Valley president Dean Cleave-Smith said it has been a very good
season and some people are saying perhaps the “best ever”, with a caveat that the proof of this will be in the tasting.
“We’ve just been really fortunate that we’ve had a long, relatively moderate ripening season which worked out really well for everyone,” he said.
“One hail event knocked a couple of vineyards around but they weren’t total losses by any means.
“It has just been one of those cracking seasons for both reds and whites where we usually get vintages where it works for one or the other.
“The rain has stayed away
and we haven’t been under any pressure up until recently from planned burns.
“Growers have been able to leave the fruit on the vine and let it be picked until it’s absolutely ripe.”
Mr Cleave-Smith said vignerons are seeing really good varietal expression, nice big avours and now it’s over
to the winemakers to weave their magic.
“The long Indian summer or classic Italian style summer analogy sums it up as this has been one of them and in the past they have delivered results for us,” he said.
■ Continued page 2
■ Upside to US tari - page 2
Fire service levy delayed
By STEVE KELLY
HIGHER grocery prices will occur if the Victorian government’s new re services levy passes the upper house of parliament, Northern Victoria MP Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has warned.
The controversial bill for the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund was debated in the upper house last Thursday, but a vote was delayed until the next sitting on 13 May.
During Thursday’s debate on the bill that would triple farmers’ property taxes, Ms Tyrrell warned the exorbi-
Increased burden on farmers will see grocery prices rise: MP
tant rises are unsustainable and will “inevitably lead to higher grocery prices for all Victorians as farmers pass on these additional costs”.
Under legislation before the house, primary producers face cost rises from 28.7 cents per $1000 capital improved value (CIV) to 83 cents.
“The VFF has labelled this levy an unjust cash grab that disregards the invaluable contributions of our farmers, especially during ongoing crises like droughts and
bush res,” Ms Tyrrell said.
She told parliament that Fire Rescue Victoria and the CFA have concerns with the wording of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.
“As it stands, FRV receive 87.5 per cent of the re services levy,” she said.
“The wording of this bill leaves the door open for this allocation to be lowered, leaving a large shortfall in funding for an already cashstrapped vital service.
“With both FRV and CFA
members relying on 30-yearold trucks and failing equipment to protect the community, both organisations are voicing their concerns with the distribution of this fund.”
The debate stalled when the house ran out of time to fully consider and vote on the matter.
The Victorian opposition is blaming the government for delaying proceedings because of a lack of crossbench support to pass the bill.
Proceedings came with ex-
tra antics with Liberal MP for North-Eastern Metro Nick McGowan forced to remove his tie a er Labor MP Ryan Batchelor raised concern.
The tie read ‘Allan government burns FRV’ and he was asked to remove it because it was a ‘political statement’ or ‘a union badge’.
The debate over the ESVF bill will continue at the next sitting of the Legislative Council on 13 May.
This bill has already passed the Legislative As-
NUMBERS
sembly on 20 March.
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) hope the delay will give politicians a chance to iron out fundamental issues facing farmers and regional communities.
“This is a step in the right direction...the government tried to push through a awed tax without consultation,” VFF president Brett Hosking said.
“The VFF’s focus will remain on highlighting the very real destruction that this bill will cause and making sure the government doesn’t steamroll through with a reckless decision.”
Hazardous tree sees partial closure of trail
A SECTION of Wangaratta's popular Bullawah Cultural Trail was closed on Sunday due a large tree on fire presenting a safety hazard to the public. Authorities responded to public reports of a burning tree around 4.30am Sunday, with local CFA brigades and Wangaratta police among the first responders to the scene.
On arrival they found a large, hollowed gum tree, approximately 100 feet high, well alight, near the entrance to Northern Beaches.
With the tree on crown land, Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) crews assumed control of the incident and remained on scene monitoring the situation.
FFMVic incident controller, Scott Edwards, said the tree is burning within 15 metres of the trail and has been assessed as too unstable for crews to directly attack. Mr Edwards said FFMVic crews will remain on site until the area is declared safe.
He said the cause of the fire is being investigated. With no lightning recorded this morning, and Wangaratta’s overnight temperature falling to a chilly 1.7 degrees with a light frost, authorities are expected to focus attention on causes other than nature.
Flavour shines through for 2025 grape harvest in King Valley
■ From page 1
“You get the mid-bodied reds that the King Valley is so well-known for with Nebbiolo, Sangiovese or French variety Pinot Noir - they come along so well in these sort of years.”
And it sets up well for the region as there is a huge volume of production for Sangiovese and Pinot Noir in the King Valley now.
Aussie wine to US hike dwarfed by EU
By STEVE KELLY
A 10 per cent tariff on Australian wine and other products headed for the USA might not hurt as bad as first thought, with other countries facing much higher penalties, according Wines of the King Valley president Dean Cleave-Smith.
He said under relative comparison to other countries, the tariffs announced by US president Donald Trump might not have too much of an impact on the nation’s wine industry.
For instance, there will
be a 20 per cent increase on the import of goods from the European Union which would jack the price up for US consumers who love their French and Italian wines - with the US the biggest wine export market for both countries.
Mr Cleave-Smith said the Victorian Government through Wine Victoria has been trying to stimulate US exports over the last couple of years.
“There has been a number of programs for businesses around US export so like every other industry that exports to
the US, it’s disappointing to see a 10pc tariff, particularly when we have a free trade agreement,” he said.
“From an overall perspective it’s relatively small and some people are saying let’s see where we land as it’s a little early to assess.
“EU wine into the US, for which it is a significant volume, there will be much, much greater price pressure.
“Once the dust settles and we understand the increases to Australian wines relative to others, we may still be very competitive in the market.”
Whit eld’s Darling Estate operator Sophie Darling said her sister Grace and Dad John were excited to have nished the harvest towards the end of March a er an early start due to warm weather at the end of January.
“Yields have been a little above average and this is variety dependent,” Ms Darling said.
“The quality is absolutely stunning, especially with our higher end varieties which is always welcome.
“We mostly focus on French varieties, and we have a couple of the Italian varieties as well.
“Gamay and Sangiovese are some of our lighter reds and we’ve got the Chardonnay and Aligoté and we have four vineyards that grow that grow this variety at the moment.
“We also have some Nebbiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon.
“There has been really beautiful avour development across the board, from walking through the vineyard for early berry sampling and getting everything into the winery, it’s been really positive.”
2024 KING VALLEY VINTAGE
ACCORDING to Wine Australia’s national vintage report for 2024, the King Valley’s vintage last year saw 16,404 tonnes of grapes crushed at an estimated value of $21,653,009. Of this, Prosecco was the largest variety with 7541 tonnes ($9,041,950), followed by Pinot Gris/Grigio 3063 tonnes ($4,136,591), Pinot Noir 1006 tonnes ($2,030,213), Chardonnay 1123 tonnes ($1,953,641), Sangiovese 940 tonnes ($1,069,559) and Sauvignon Blanc 928 tonnes ($936,859). The total crush comprised more than 10 varieties of white grapes (13,282 tonnes/$17,043,707 value) and more than 16 varieties of red grapes (3122 tonnes/$4,609,302).
The King Valley accounted for approximately one per cent of the 2024 Australian winegrape crush of 1.43 million tonnes.
FLAVOURSOME: Sophie Darling said the quality of fruit has been absolutely stunning at their vineyards in Whitfield. PHOTO: Anita McPherson
DANGER: A section of the Bullawah Cultural Trail remains closed to the public while fire continues to burn in a large, dead gum tree.
PHOTO: Je Zeuschner
ANZAC Appeal crucial to help support our veterans
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
A PARTNERSHIP between RSL Victoria and Woolworths which is now in its 11th year has been marked with the launch of the 2025 ANZAC Appeal at Woolworths’ Wangaratta store.
Customers will be able to purchase badges and wristbands at the store, with all funds going to the RSL to support veterans and their families.
This year’s campaign will also see 20 cents from every pack of ANZAC biscuits sold from Woolworths Bakery between 23 to 25 April go to the appeal, and proceeds from tins and packets of Bakers Finest ANZAC Biscuits go to RSL Australia.
Woolworths has helped raise $13.6 million over more than 10 years as a supporter of the ANZAC Appeal, with these funds distributed nationally based on where sales were generated.
Customers have purchased 2.7 million ANZAC and Poppy Appeal products to wear and show their support for veterans and their families.
Support for veterans provided through the national appeal includes advocacy to help gain compensation for physical and mental health injuries through service; assistance with day-today medical support and employment; social support for veterans and families; and programs that promote physical health and social connection like RSL Active.
As a veteran herself, Woolworths Wangaratta store manager Allison Stone knows the importance of the appeal and the support it provides.
“Having served in the Australian Navy for seven years
Accused drug trafficker, Maserati thief is back in custody
and coming from a family with a service history going back six generations, I’m very proud to be part of this year’s appeal,” she said.
“As a veteran, I understand the adjustment that is required to return to civilian life and the di culties that many ex-service men and women nd.
“I was fortunate to be able to land a job with Woolworths that has resulted in a 17-year career, but not everyone is as lucky as me.
“It’s a really proud moment to have my employer, Woolworths, support the ANZAC Appeal in a genuine way that will raise funds to help those veterans doing it tough.
“The support provided by the
RSL can’t be underestimated.”
Andrew Kay, Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch senior vice president, said funding from the ANZAC Appeal was becoming increasingly important to sub-branches.
“Across the state, the demand for support from the RSL is growing, which is consistent with what was sadly articulated through the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, an issue which has been brought to the forefront,” he said.
“The ANZAC Appeal is the major annual RSL fundraiser, and is crucial to making sure Wangaratta RSL has the resources to deal with the issues of local veterans.
“Having Woolworths involved is a boost for the RSL, ensuring the ANZAC Appeal is front of mind over the next few weeks when people are doing their grocery shopping.
“We’re so grateful that people are so supportive of the appeal.”
Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch veteran support o cer Colleen Davis said the RSL relied on the community to support its e orts to assist veterans of all ages, some aged as young as their late 20s.
“If everyone bought a $2 or $5 badge, it would make a big di erence,” she said.
“It’s marvellous to have the support of Woolworths; when I’m shopping and see people buying ANZAC biscuits, I al-
ways think, ‘Ripper’, because I know the outcome that support can have.”
Colleen said local army and air force cadets, as well as Guides and Scouts groups, would assist with badge sales over coming weeks. Anyone interested in helping to sell badges in Wangaratta is encouraged to contact Colleen on 0447 217 768.
The Wangaratta RSL SubBranch will mark ANZAC Day on Friday, 25 April with a dawn service from 6am at the Wangaratta Cenotaph on the corner of Ovens and Docker Streets, and a march stepping o from the Wangaratta RSL at 10.40am proceeding to the 11am service at the cenotaph.
AN alleged drug trafficker and Maserati thief caught in Wangaratta is back in custody a month after he was released, a court has heard.
The 29-year-old Wodonga man was listed for a committal mention at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, but defence counsel Chirag Patel informed the court he would be unable to appear due to being back behind bars on Wednesday.
The defendant was arrested at a Wangaratta hotel on 19 November last year along with a 29-year-old Wodonga woman, accused of trafficking four litres of 1-4 butanediol and 87 grams of methamphetamine.
The pair also allegedly stole two vehicles, including a Maserati and a Subaru, and were charged with handling of stolen goods.
The defendant was initially refused release by Magistrate Megan Casey at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 21 November last year while the woman was bailed.
The court heard the man had later been released on 6 March, only to be back in custody on 2 April in Wodonga on unrelated charges.
Magistrate Casey adjourned the committal mention at the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court for 1 May.
Final day to enrol to vote in election
TODAY is your last chance to enrol to vote in the 3 May federal election.
You must be correctly enrolled by 8pm today. If you are an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older you are required to vote in the federal election.
For more details go to https://www.aec.gov.au/
ANZAC Appeal means for local veterans.
PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Name a passerine bird (6)
7 Ozone could be called what (5,3)
8 To surpass, is to do what (6)
9 What do we call a relative (8)
11 To be contrary, is to be what (7)
13 Which term means eternally (7)
15 What describes a small quantity (7)
17 What is ecstatic joy or delight (7)
20 Name a Danish author, Hans Christian ... (8)
23 What, in the US, is a five-cent piece (6)
24 Which post supports that which lights up a street, etc (8)
25 To pay expenses, is to do what (6)
DOWN
1 To disencumber, is to do what (4)
2 Name a piece of landed property (6)
3 Denpasar is the capital of which Indonesian province (4)
4 What describes the general course or tendency (5)
5 What is a loud noise (6)
9 Name an Australian tennis great, Patrick ... (6)
10 Which fellows row boats (7)
12 What is a primary linguistic form (6)
14 Who tends a furnace (6)
16 To intrude suddenly, is to do what (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
18 To put up with, is to do what (5)
21 What is the legal title of the wife of a knight or baronet (4)
22 What is a Scottish Gaelic known as (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
NATALITY (a) Birth (b) Swimming (c) Nationhood
6 Name another term for outhouses (5)
Letters have a number value
19 To congregate, is to do what (5)
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 centre cells.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
2 OBFUSCATE (a) To bind by oath (b) To darken (c) To rebuke
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.
CLUES:
All living things (5)
Birds of prey (7)
British (coll) (5)
Cold Rolled Steel (3)
Dried coconut meat (5)
Driver’s compartment (3)
Label (3)
Prisoner (7)
Theme (5)
US actor: ... Gardner (3)
Past, present and future SES community celebrate 50 years
FOUNDING members of the Wangaratta VICSES Unit along with around 100 others came to celebrate 50 years of the emergency service in the state.
Wangaratta’s Handley Street headquarters opened its doors to the general public on Saturday, 29 March, to celebrate half a century since the the volunteerbased Civil Defence Organisation was established as the SES Wangaratta SES Unit controller Jess Zuber said she was happy to see such a diverse range of people converge to celebrate the SES
“We got to hear some old stories on what’s changed over the 50 years but also we got to share with our community what we do,” she said.
“It was great to hear some of the stories from the founding members, they actually built the rst Wangaratta rescue truck as part of their training, which was absolutely bizarre.
“It’s interesting how it’s all changed.”
Ms Zuber said discussions with former members revolved around how climate change may have a ected the job, but the service still exists for the same reason as when it was founded.
“I think it’s really important to highlight we’re still here for 50 years later for the same reason they joined, which is to help our community,” she said.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
“They didn’t do a lot of tree jobs back then; we’ve ooded forever but tree jobs were not common.
“It showed the growth and change not only within VICSES but also our community.”
A road crash rescue demonstration took place in the morning while a history display showing 50 years of the service in Wangaratta was on full show inside.
Attendees had the rare opportunity to tour the facility which has only been in operation for a few years.
Ms Zuber said families were surprised by how much space there was and the specialised equipment used by members in emergencies.
“They know we’ve got our road rescue tools and our chainsaws, but they assumed we just tarped roofs and did bits and pieces,” she said.
“To hear we participated in land searches, a lot were surprised to learn how much we did.
“There was lots of information shared which was amazing.”
Ms Zuber said the unit planned to hold another event in August for past members who weren’t able to attend the open day.
It was great to hear some of the stories from the founding members, they actually built the first Wangaratta rescue truck as part of their training, which was absolutely bizarre.
IMPOUNDED: Police impounded this Ford Falcon a er it’s driver was clocked at 138km/h in a 60km/h zone on Mason Street.
Car impounded after driver clocked almost 80km/h over speed limit
A 19-year-old Wangaratta man had his car impounded last week a er being caught driving at almost 80km/h over the speed limit in Wangaratta.
Wangaratta police said the teenager was observed driving a yellow Ford Falcon at a fast rate of speed on Mason Street, and was intercepted by police a er being clocked at 138km/h in a 60km/h zone.
Police said the driver stated he thought we was driving at 110km/h and was
breaking in a new engine.
The vehicle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1850 and the driver male is expected to be charged on summons to appear at the Wangaratta Magistrates Court.
New bus shelter welcomed on Williams Road
WANGARATTA council has been praised for the installation of a new bus shelter (pictured) on
Regular bus traveler Kelli Densten contacted the Wangaratta Chronicle welcoming the new shelter.
“I am writing to let people know that I finally have a bus stop where I can sit down and I will be out of the rain and sun when it’s raining and when it’s too hot,” Kelli said.
“I also wanted people to know how much the council does for people like me and other people.”
HERE FROM THE START: VICSES Wangaratta Unit founding members (from le ) Jim Doyle, Rod McGregor, Tony Allen and Faye Doyle paid a visit to the unit’s current Handley Street headquarters during its 50 year anniversary open day.
PHOTO: Wangaratta SES
Williams Road near Three Mile Creek.
PHOTO: Victoria Police
- Wangaratta SES Unit controller Jess Zuber
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
Government levy needs more scrutiny
WHILE the federal election will continue to dominate the news circle up until May 3, it is important that the Victorian government’s controversial new Emergency Services Volunteer Fund (ESVF) continues to come under scrutiny before the push to have it become law resumes on 13 May.
The bill, which has passed through the government’s controlled lower house, stalled last Thursday in the upper house and it we resume debate next month, looking to take effect from July 1 this year.
The government’s ESVP will replace the former Fire Services Property Levy - an annual levy, collected by councils via rate notices, introduced in 2013 to help ensure Victorian property owners make an annual contribution to the state’s fire services.
While the FSPL funded 87.5% of Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and 77.5% of the CFA’s annual budgets, the government says the new ESVF will fund up to 87.5% of FRV’s budget and up to 95% of CFA’s budget.
And It will also be used to fund up to 95% of the budgets of a broader range of emergency services including: VICSES, Triple Zero Victoria, the State Control Centre, Forest Fire Management Victoria and Emergency Recovery Victoria.
The government contends that every dollar raised will go towards vital life-saving equipment, vehicles, staff, training for volunteers, community education, and recovery support for when Victorians need it most.
But concerns - from both political opponents, local government, farming and fire representative bodies - remain unresolved and continue to cast doubt over the fairness of the levy and where all revenue will be spent.
In particular, the dramatic levy rise being proposed, hitting rural property owners hardest, sits uneasy with many in rural and regional Victoria, as does only a proprtion of funds going to actual volunteer bodies.
The Quiz No. 129
1. Which two countries share the Jutland peninsula?
2. Who was the rst person to win the men’s singles title at Wimbledon as a wildcard?
3. What were the letters and numbers on McHale’s boat in the classic TV series, McHale’s Navy?
4. Which juice is added to a martini to make a Bronx cocktail?
5. On which hill is Australia’s Parliament House located?
6. Who played the role of Major Neddie Seagoon in The Goon Show?
7. What are the three colours on the ag of Chad?
8. Who released the 2013 album, The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2?
9. At which Olympics did Herb Elliott win his gold medal?
10. In 2017, who succeeded Brendon Grylls as the Member for the Electoral district of Pilbara?
11. Who wrote the 1939 novel, The Big Sleep?
12. In which Australian state is Coolangatta Mountain located?
13. What is the of cial language of Angola?
14. Which movie won the Best Picture Oscar at the 2017 Academy Awards presentations?
15. How many strings are on a standard ukulele?
16. In which decade of the 20th century did Charles become the Prince of Wales?
17. Who was the rst cricketer to score a quadruple century in Test Cricket?
18. In the nursery rhyme Hickory Dickory Dock, which creature runs up the clock?
19. The airline called Edelweiss Air is based in which country?
20. What is the oral emblem of the Australian Capital Territory?
Facebook users commented on the CFA’s fire season seeing a surge in incidents.
• Ian Corbett: What burnoffs have happened this year Heaps of wood on my road council just pushes it aside & moves on Big bushfire hazard
• Debra Whitehead: Ian Corbett and yet if someone came along and picked it all up for their fireplace they’d be fined!!! It’s bloody wrong!
• Neil John Maclean: Serves
you right. Youve had half a century to sort it out , halfwits
• Andrew Meloury: That’s what happens when you lock up the bush and stop people collecting firewood Facebook users commented on an article about the One Nation candidate for Indi.
• Tim Bright: I have absolutely zero attraction to one nation but to be frank ANY vote that’s not for the duopoly is welcome •
is their preference flow, to the duopoly aka Liberal Party, that makes them stand in the first place.
• Nyree Bennett: He supports banning foreign ownership of residential properties, reducing immigration to ease housing demand and freeing up land for farming and homes. He’s passionate about easing the cost-of-living pressures,
Businesses closing at an alarming rate
HAVE you noticed more empty shops oating around the area... Seems you might be right in noticing and it certainly isn’t just the North East e ected.
Australia as a whole is losing private businesses at unheard of levels.
In 2024, 88 businesses closed for every 100 that opened.
This gure equates to 15,238 businesses that were deregistered or closed down, an equivalent of 17 per cent of businesses operating.
“Challenging operating conditions” were cited as a large contributor to record high turnover rates.
Those that currently own a small business are seeing it rst hand on the ground.
Everything is up - electricity, insurance, loan repayments, rent generally remain some of the largest expenses outside of wages but just about any product one may sell or manufacture has seen signi cant increases in cost also.
penalty. “I’m not here for Canberra politics,” Athol says. “I’m here to represent the people of Indi who keep this country going.” Personally I like this!
• Garry Jones: Nope..... One Nation can crawl back into the sea...... they are just 1 small step above palmer’s party. Trumpet of idiots. Keep Indi Independant.
• Darren Peters: Garry Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
General people are also e ected having less disposable income to ow into business.
Lets not also forget taxes.
Those that own the building are likely subject to the government’s land tax as part of its ‘Covid recovery’ debt that in all honesty the government largely created by imposing seven lockdowns on us all.
This was always going to be a consequence that unfortunately Victorians may feel for a decade or more.
Matt Strahan, Greta South
Costly desal order flushes more cash
THE announcement that the Allan Labor Government has ordered 50 gigalitres of water from Victoria’s desalination plant will cost taxpayers millions of dollars as the idle facility is brought back online.
Having ordered no water for the past two years and receiving only 3.4 gigalitres of the 15GL ordered in 2022/23, it remains to be seen how much Victorians will be slugged for the latest order.
It is costing Victorians $700 million a year to keep the desalination plant mothballed, which is driving up the price of water bills.
Melbourne Water users have been paying more than they should for their water, and Labor has failed to manage the state’s desal plant.
Labor’s fear of dams means we are more reliant on expensive solutions to secure our water.
Tim McCurdy, Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley and Shadow Minister for Water
and refreshments. For more information, contact Liz on 0438 573 357 or Ruth on 0428 900 458.
Labor government must bin its dog of a tax
THE Allan Labor Government must immediately take a reality check and end its callous and relentless push to introduce an Emergency Services Tax.
Labor’s latest tax grab was snubbed in the Upper House last week a er it failed to pass.
Now, Labor must consign its bid for a 60th new or increased tax to the bin.
The tax plan hits homeowners, businesses and farmers – and will hit Victorians with an extra $2.1 billion over the next three years, at a time of a cost-of-living crisis.
Labor’s great big new tax will force hardworking Victorians to pay extra for what are core government services.
James Newbury MP, Shadow Treasurer
Go back to drawing board on state levy
THE welcomed delay of the Victorian government’s Emergency Services Volunteer Fund levy passing through parliament provides an opportunity to go back to the drawing board, and use this extra time to speak with rural councils and communities to better understand our concerns about the inequities built into this levy.
We’ve previously proposed three common sense changes; to recalculate the collection formula to make it fairer, to guarantee the money raised will go back to local communities and to make the State Revenue O ce responsible for levy administration.
Cr Rob Amos, Rural Councils Victoria chair
Farmers’ concerns linger on state levy
THE decision to stall the deeply awed proposed Fire Services Levy Bill creates a temporary reprieve which must be used to iron out the fundamental issues facing farmers and regional communities.
Legitimate concerns still linger regarding the proposed cash-grab.
Our focus will remain on highlighting the very real destruction that this Bill will cause and making sure the government doesn’t steamroll through with a reckless decision. Our message to the government couldn’t be clearer - talk to us, consult with us and work collaboratively to get ideas that actually work and don’t risk taking a sledgehammer to the livelihoods of hard-working Victorian famers.
Help keep up the pressure by having your say using the information provided on our VFF website.
Brett Hosking, Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) president
WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Prosecution snag in alleged local home invader contest
IT may have been labelled a “ shing exercise” by prosecutors, but the defence team of a Wangaratta woman charged over an alleged Templeton Street home invasion have been granted the right to cross examine two witnesses.
The 31-year-old defendant appeared virtually at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court last Thursday from a rehabilitation centre for a contest mention.
The woman was jailed with two other co-accused following an alleged armed invasion and assault at a Templeton Street home on
Provide feedback on how council engages
By STEVE KELLY
COMMUNITY engagement
is the talk of the town with local residents, property holders, and business operators now asked to give feedback on a new policy that’s out for public consultation.
Rural City of Wangaratta Council has released its dra community engagement policy which will be on public exhibition for 30 days.
The policy maps out that community engagement is about involving people in the decisions that impact their lives.
It details that successful engagement fosters integrity and builds trust in council, resulting in more inclusive and representative outcomes.
Some of the principles of the policy are to give the community access to objective, relevant and timely information to inform their participation.
To provide this, the council will complete stakeholder assessments for engagement projects, to ensure potential impacts of a project on community and stakeholders are identi ed, discussed and addressed.
It will make every reasonable e ort to include community and stakeholders a ected by a project.
Council will remove barriers to participation and ensure an inclusive approach.
Cr Allison Winters said she was excited to see the policy going out for a 30-day public exhibition period and encourages community members to look through the dra policy as it will affect the future engagement of the community.
Mayor Irene Grant said council has certainly been carrying out quite a bit of engagement over the last three months, with “very interesting feedback”.
23 August last year. A 52-year-old male resident of the Wangaratta address sustained a severed nger and was allegedly assaulted and su ered injuries to his head.
The court heard the defendant was charged with aggravated home invasion and aggravated home burglary while two men aged 31 and 35 were also apprehended.
The 31-year-old man had pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated burglary and causing serious injury and was set to face County Court on 1 September.
The 35-year-old man will also front County Court on 29 July.
However, the woman was set to contest the charges against her a er she was bailed in January this year.
Prosecutors opposed an application by the defence to cross examine two civilian witnesses of the incident, one of whom was in a bedroom of the home at the time of alleged offending.
Prosecutor Bill Baarini said the cross examination of the two witnesses would be “a shing exercise” for the defence.
“There’s no disputing she was in the home when the alleged o ending occurred,” he said.
Mr Baarini said included in evidence was a witness statement and recorded interview of the accused admitting her involvement in the o ending and seeing the co-accused armed with a bat and knives.
Mr Baarini questioned the relevance of the civilian witnesses, considering one supposedly didn’t see the alleged o ending, only hearing voices.
Defence counsel Chirag Patel said while it was a
narrow issue, the evidence of the two “key” witnesses would assist the court in gaining a full picture of the alleged incident.
“This is not a shing expedition,” he said.
“It’s clear he [a witness] hears voices, and in the prosecution’s case there is only one female involved in the incident.”
Magistrate Megan Casey granted Mr Patel’s application to have the two witnesses front the court and listed the matter to return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 2 October for a contested committal mention.
Free skin health checks for local farmers
LOCAL farmers are encouraged to take advantage of free skin health checks, thanks to an initiative between the Rural City of Wangaratta in partnership with Myrtleford’s TAFCO Rural Supplies.
The Alpine Outreach Van will be visiting Wangaratta Livestock Exchange from 15-17 April, providing a convenient opportunity for farmers and community members to prioritise
their skin health.
The Alpine Outreach Van will provide a quick and professional skin check, ensuring peace of mind and the opportunity to address any concerns early.
Appointments are 15 minutes each and bookings are recommended, with walkins welcome, subject to availability.
Skin cancer remains a serious concern for outdoor workers, including farmers,
who are exposed to high levels of UV radiation.
This initiative underscores the importance of early detection and proactive healthcare, with a focus on supporting the health and well-being of the farming community.
Mayor Irene Grant highlighted that farmers spend countless hours under the sun, o en putting their health on the backburner.
“These free skin health
checks provide a simple yet vital step towards early detection and prevention,” she said.
“We’re proud to partner with TAFCO Rural Supplies and bring this service directly to our farming community.
“It’s about making health care accessible, convenient, and e ective.”
Bookings are recommended at https://bit.
ly/3DLEqwi
Local man avoids fine, conviction for drunken tour of city
A WANGARATTA man who went on a drunken tour of the CBD, threatening bar staff and scaring children, has avoided conviction and a fine.
Appearing at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court last Thursday the 53-year-old admitted to his wrongdoings, which had started with a bottle of whiskey and catching up with a friend.
The court heard on the night of 10 August last year the defendant made his way to the Wangaratta Club, where the bar manager noticed the defendant’s loud swearing was disturbing multiple families and children.
He was told to stop swearing and lower his voice not to “scare the kids”, which he replied he “didn’t f***ing care”.
When asked to leave the defendant became aggressive, lunging over the bar at the bar manager and threatening to “roll” her.
After some time, the man left and made his way to the Pinsent Hotel where he held a barstool above his head in an “aggressive manner” and threw a glass towards an alleyway near patrons.
Police were called and officers found the man at the nearby bottle shop with staff, where he was told to leave the CBD and not attend any other drinking venues. Some 90 minutes later, he was in line to enter Old Faithfulls Brew Bar where police arrested him and took him home.
Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client was catching up with a “long lost” friend during the day and they had a bottle of malt whiskey together.
He said at the advice of his friend his client went out to the CBD, despite strong opposition to the idea from the defendant’s wife.
His friend “disappeared” not long after they went out and he was left on his own.
Mr Clancy said his client’s behaviour was out of character and he apologised to the venues involved.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson wanted a financial penalty to be included in a good-behaviour bond.
Magistrate Megan Casey did not impose a fine or a conviction due to a lack of prior offences, placing the defendant on a 12-month good behaviour bond.
“I’m sure you have reflected on how poorly your behaviour was,” she said.
March was wetter than normal in Wangaratta
MOST major centres in North East Victoria enjoyed March rainfalls which were just above their long term average.
Wangaratta had 65.6mms, with the heaviest daily fall of 48.6mms on 21 March.
Benalla received 70.4mms with the heaviest daily fall of 31mms on 15 March.
Albury received 54mms and Yarrawonga received 55mms which was slightly above the March average.
Maximum and minimum temperatures were both
WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
notably above the March normal.
In Wangaratta the mean maximum temperature of 30.9 degrees was three degrees above the March normal and the warmest since 32.7 degrees in 1940.
The mean minimum temperature in Wangaratta of
14.3 degrees was 3.4 degrees above the March normal and the warmest since 14.5 degrees in 1985.
It was much the same picture at other main centres, with the daily maxima being the warmest since 1940 and night minima being the warmest since either 1974 or 1985.
Further north into NSW those places which received above average rainfall for March also had well above normal temperatures with night time minima being
notably above normal.
The mean minimum temperature at Deniliquin of 16.4 degrees was the warmest for March since 1974.
At Wilcannia the mean minimum temperature of 20 degrees for March was the warmest in 135 years of records.
At Coonabarabran the mean minimum temperature of16.7 degrees broke a record for March which had stood since 1903.
Recent ooding rains did much damage to many farm
properties in the far west and south west of Queensland around Quilpie, Belombre, Winton and Urandangie with rainfalls over 250mms at the rst three towns and over 150mms at Urandangie.
There were major oods previously in 1890, 1963, 1974, 2010 and 2019 at these outback towns. Wangaratta and district’s current cooler weather will remain until about 13 April, and I expect heavy rain near the end of April.
SKIN IN THE GAME: Cr Harvey Benton urges farmers to get down to the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange for a free skin health check from 15-17 April.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
| Junior Reporter Club
Historic setting for Off Grid Pop Up Cinema in Chiltern this week
AS part of Chiltern’s O -Grid Living Festival this week, the town’s historic Star Theatre will host the O Grid Pop Up Cinema.
Featuring a program of lms exploring what it means to live on our planet, how we can care for Country, and what the future may bring, the cinema is organised in conjunction with Environmental Films Aus-
tralia, and will operate this Friday, 11 April and Saturday, 12 April.
The program includes short and feature lms, and even a kids’ session, o ering something for everyone to take a break from the festival and connect with the environment.
Friday’s session will begin with the Bob Brown feature documentary ‘The Giants’, which explores
the intertwined lives of humanity and trees in a poetic portrait of the environmentalist.
One of Australia’s most successful documentaries of 2023, the lm inspired national rallies, put deforestation on the political agenda, and mobilised individuals and community groups to stand up for forests.
On Saturday, the whole family
can enjoy a 4pm screening of the animated ‘Jacob, Mimmi and the Talking Dogs’, in which a young girl must team up with her cousin and the local canine community to save her favourite tree.
Then, at 6.30pm, the Future Shorts session will feature a series of curated science ction and action short lms, delving into how tomorrow’s stories
Free comedy show will share a story of hope
WANGARATTA will host a free, one-of-a-kind comedy show this weekend.
Murray PHN is funding the community event at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 12 April to help normalise conversations around mental health and encourage people to seek help earlier.
Murray PHN CEO Matt Jones acknowledged that men’s mental health issues o en go unrecognised.
“We know that men are disproportionately represented in suicide statistics and there are a range of barriers that prevent them from seeking support,” he said.
“What we need are di erent approaches so that mental health is recognised as being just as important as physical health.
“Involving those with lived or living experience provides hope, through shared understanding and awareness.
“Humour can also help to break down barriers.”
The free show is being delivered by South Australian comedian and suicide prevention advocate Marc Ryan, who is also known as ‘The Beautiful Bogan’ a er featuring on ABC’s ‘You Can’t Ask That’ Bogans episode - one of the most watched in the series.
Drawing from his own mental health struggles, Marc uses comedy to address the o en-taboo subjects of post-traumatic stress disorder, severe anxiety, depression, and living with thoughts of suicide stemming from childhood trauma.
While the topics may seem heavy and could be triggering for some, Marc’s performances blend humour with heartfelt stories in the hope of encouraging others to get the help they need and to remind them that they’re not alone in their struggles.
Marc said that living with mental illness for more than 27 years has shaped his life.
“I’ve navigated marriage, fatherhood and fostering children while battling internal struggles,” he said.
“By telling my story, I hope to help others understand that mental health is an experience that many of us share.
“It’s time we remove the veil of shame and have real conversations to help with the healing.
“We need to be comfortable to talk about the tough stu because it’s real and affects us all,” Marc said.
COMING TO WANGARATTA:
Marc Ryan uses comedy to address the o en-taboo subjects of post-traumatic stress disorder, severe anxiety, depression, and living with thoughts of suicide stemming from childhood trauma.
respond to today’s emergencies. The program will wind down with an exploration of caring for Country in Australia with ‘Yana Djamaga Ganji/Walk Good Fire’ (2024), preceded by the award winning (and fan favourite) Victorian short ‘Outpicker’ (2023).
For tickets, visit https://www.e a. org.au/events/o -grid
The Art Factory is now open in Albury
The performance is suitable for audiences aged 18+ due to containing strong language and discussing living with thoughts of suicide.
Event booking details are available at each venue.
If you are in an emergency situation or at immediate
risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000. Other services include
Lifeline – 13 13 14 or lifeline. org.au or Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Young artists showcased in MAMA’s RAW25 exhibit
AN annual showcase of the best original artworks produced by young people of the Murray region is currently being held at the Murray Art Museum Albury, as part of RAW25.
This year’s exhibition features nine artists, Alexa Taylor, Alexandra McNamara, Amy Bishop, Brianna Walker, Chiana Broydell, Claudia Alessi, Indita Yaxley, Martin Fraser and Stella Thurkettle, and highlights the unique perspectives and experiences of our local young people.
The 2025 exhibition presents themes centred on the experience of being (a young) human – exploring self-identity, mental health, community, environment and belonging – through a range of mediums including painting, drawing, collage, printmaking, textiles and digital media.
As part of the RAW program, participating artists are involved in a series of workshops with MAMA curatorial sta covering aspects of concept development, artwork preparation, and exhibition installation as well as feedback for future projects, and development of public programs.
From this the artists involved take a leading role in the development of their exhibition.
UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE: Included in the RAW25 exhibition is Stella Thurkettle, The Essence of Experience, 2024, acrylic and liquefying medium on paper.
Applications for the RAW program are open all year round and successful applicants are reviewed and chosen in September each year.
RAW25 will be on display at MAMA until 25 May and entry is free.
AWARD-WINNING ‘supported studio’, The Art Factory, is now in Albury.
The Art Factory in Wagga Wagga is a supported studio with more than 40 practicing artists and was established in 2016 as part of the national Supported Studio Network that provides a framework for visual arts studios supporting the professional development of artists with disabilities.
The Art Factory is more than just a studio - it’s an awardwinning creative powerhouse where artists with disabilities find their voice, build confidence, and transform their passion into purpose.
The Art Factory studio in Albury has the same unstoppable mission: empowering artists with disabilities and celebrating creativity like never before.
“We’re beyond thrilled to announce The Art Factory studio is now in Albury,” Leanne Dyer, program coordinator said.
“To celebrate, we’ll be hosting a ‘Come and Try Workshop’ this Friday from 11am to 1pm at the Rotunda Lawn in the Albury Botanic Gardens.
“Join us for a unique experience that combines music and art.” Simone Reeder, a musical therapist from Music Garden, will provide a musical backdrop, inspiring artists to create in response to the environment. All are welcome - no experience needed.
For more details visit theartfactorysupportedstudio.com
NATURAL WONDER: The beauty of the spectacular Warby Ovens National Park and its di erent ecologies is captured in a new exhibition which has opened in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library. Hosted by Friends of the WONP, the exhibition includes works by artists and supporters including (from le ) Ian Minns, Paddy Milne and Andy Kimber in visual art mediums including painting, photography, ceramics, illustration and embroidery, celebrating the special flora, fauna and landscapes of the Warby Range, Killawarra Forest and Lower Ovens. It will be on display during the month of April and entry is free.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
By CORAL COOKSLEY
AN award-winning Beechworth vigneron has reaped success with two new exciting grape varieties grown in Australia for the rst time.
Fighting Gully Vineyard’s Mark Walpole has grown Petit Arvine and Cornalin, white and red respectively, from the Aosta Valley in mountainous region in Italy’s far northwest with the region bordering Switzerland.
“The grapes are mainly grown in the Aosta Vally and to a limited extent over the border in Switzerland,” Mr Walpole said.
The grapes are ancient varieties with a history dating back to times when country borders were in di erent locations.
Mr Walpole, known for pursuing alternative grape varieties for his wines, said his interest sparked with the high-altitude location in the Aosta Valley mainly with the climate – elevated sites, cool, and continental with catabatic (downward) winds.
The vigneron visited a number of the best producers in the region of Aosta in 2004 with the region home to many ‘minor’ high quality varieties.
“Many are only found in
and around Aosta and represent only very small plantings,” he said.
Mr Walpole started the importation process in 2017 after thinking about acquiring the grape varieties for quite some time.
Paperwork included obtaining phytosanitary certi cates for the dormant cuttings with approval needed from the Switzerland and Italian governments as well as the Australia Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS).
Once released from quarantine in 2020 Mr Walpole took the vine material to the Chalmers Nursery near Mildura to undertake propagation with rootstocks planted at Fighting Gully Road (FGR) in the winter of 2022.
“The rst buds from Mildura were brought down to FGR in spring of 2023 and gra ed onto rootstock that we had established the year earlier in anticipation of the material coming out of quarantine,” he said.
“The bud gra ed vines resulting in our rst crop this month.
“The rst experimental wines made last year from the mothervines in Mildura have been very well received by the trade.”
Mark’s new Europa Vineyard in Stanley has been found to be an ideal site for the Petit Arvine, with an elevation of more than 700 metres above sea level with its aspect, rainfall and low humidity during the growing season.
slightly higher, cooler and wetter than Fighting Gully Road,” he said.
“We planted vines there in spring last year which have grown well and anticipate the rst crop next year.
view, and will give consumers something di erent from Merlot, Cabernet or Riesling.”
“The Stanley climate better represents Aosta Valley as it’s
“The wines are unique from a avour and texture point of
Seven acres have been planted at Europa Vineyard with two for the Petit Arvine and ve acres for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Mr Walpole is also known for
his award-winning Chardonnay and Syrah.
The vigneron said a lot of the ‘new’ varieties introduced over the past decade or so have been selected for a warming climate but little attention had been given to vignerons in cool areas that have a limited amount of varieties available to them.
Beechworth Vignerons Association president Jeremy Schmölzer said Mr Walpole has been a key proponent in importing new vines and growing grapes with his interest spanning for at least 20 years.
“There’s an exciting curiosity around new varieties with the market willing to try new things,” he said.
“Varieties and trends are changing with good support from restaurants and wine trade for new and interesting varieties.”
Mr Schmölzer said there has been a big adaptation where the industry has adapted, as well as a supportive market with broader acceptance of new varieties.
“It’s great for Beechworth as a small and compact wine region with a high reputation for trade locally and internationally,” he said.
“Mark is a good advocate for the industry and producers.”
Vigneron grows new varieties in Australia for the first time Funding to help support climate smart agriculture
THE North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) has received funding to undertake knowledge building and practical on-ground, climate-smart agriculture activities across the North East region over the next four years.
NECMA o cer Sally Day said activities that support agricultural production by improving sustainable land management and protecting and conserving natural capital and biodiversity on farms will be delivered through two grant streams.
“Groups grants of between $10,000 and $40,000 (GST exc.) will fund group-led activities that support capacity building activities, trials, demonstration sites and revegetation programs on farms,” she said.
“A Landholder Incentives Program will support individual farmers to undertake practical projects to improve their farm’s agricultural productivity, natural capital values and climate resilience.
“Incentives of up to $5000/ ha (GST exc.) are available to support on-farm infrastructure (e.g. fencing and ostream water) required to establish vegetation, with plant and guard costs funded by the North East CMA.”
Ms Day said applications must be made separately for each stream, with expressions of interest open until 5pm, 28 April.
For more details go to https://www.necma.vic.gov.au/ Projects/Current-projects/ Climate-Smart-Agriculturein-North-East-Victoria
If you would like to discuss an idea for a group project or a site on your farm contact Ms Day on 0488 576 533 or email sally.day@necma.vic.gov.au
Activities to be delivered by NECMA throughout the duration of the project will include:
• practical workshops on designing and implementing revegetation sites in the landscape (such as shelterbelts, farm dams, paddock trees and waterway sites) supporting landholders to develop plans for their revegetation sites and guidance throughout site implementation;
• supporting groups and organisations to deliver their group-led projects;
- annual forums to build the
skills and capability of regional farmers and industry support sta to adapt to climate change, apply industry sustainability frameworks and/ or engage in natural capital markets, speci cally in relation to risk and opportunities; • events and other communications such as videos, podcasts and fact sheets to draw together key ndings from the project; and
• benchmarking of community attitudes and knowledge in sustainable land management over the course of the project and reporting on project ndings at the completion of the project.
Ms Day said that as additional investment streams become available under the program, NECMA will investigate opportunities for additional funding to support the needs and interests of groups and landholders in local catchments.
A NATION FIRST: Beechworth Fighting Gully Vineyard’s Mark Walpole has garnered success by growing two Australian first grape varieties at his Stanley-based vineyard.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
PRODUCTIVE LAND: New grants are available to support climate-smart agriculture in the
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EXPERIENCED CLEANER
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following position:
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following position:
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following position:
Legal Studies Teacher
Legal Studies Teacher
Legal Studies Teacher
(.6 time fraction contract with the possibility of ongoing in 2026)
(.6 time fraction contract with the possibility of ongoing in 2026)
(.6 time fraction contract with the possibility of ongoing in 2026)
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing date.
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing date.
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing date.
Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
Apprentice Printer
Position
This is a full-time position of 38 hours per week, but some flexibility will be required.
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment with a long standing publisher, we would encourage you to forward your covering letter and CV (including three referees) to:
Needed for small Motel, located approximately 15 minutes out of Wangaratta. Phone 03 5766 2202
LINA RACO
MARY-ANN JACKA
ANNE VINAR
DAVID ASHCROFT
MATCH REVIEWS
NETBALL
WANGARATTA ROVERS
WANGARATTA MAGPIES
WANGARATTA ROVERS: O. Clelland 2, S. Murray 1, S. Booth 1, L. O’Brien 1, A. McCarthy 1, D. Wilson 1, W. Christie 1, X. Allison 1, E. Dayman 1. WANGARATTA: P. Heatley 3, J. Craven 3, J. Clarke 2, X. Laverty 1, B. Melville 1, M. Grossman 1, A.
WANGARATTA ROVERS: A. McCarthy, D. Wilson, W. Christie, C. Ledger. WANGARATTA: J. Craven, J. Clarke, H. Hewitt, A. Federico, M. Grossman, C. Knowles.
A Grade: Wangaratta Rovers 41 def by Wangaratta 52. B Grade: Wangaratta Rovers 32 def by Wangaratta 39. C Grade: Wangaratta Rovers 25 def by Wangaratta 46. 17 & Under: Wangaratta Rovers 58 def Wangaratta 39. 15 & Under: Wangaratta Rovers 27 def by Wangaratta 40.
WANGARATTA ROVERS: P. Coleman 4, S. Comensoli 3, T. Vincent 2, H. McMonigle 2. WANGARATTA: J. Adamo 1, C. Ross 1, H. Graham 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. McNamara, S. Comensoli, H. Nolan, S. Nolan, H. McMonigle, P. WANGARATTA: H. Graham, J. Roberts, C. Newton, H. Burgan, P. Wright.
THIRDS
Wangaratta Rovers: 7.4 (46) Wangaratta: 3.8 (26)
WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Correll 2, Z. O’Shannessy 1, M. Correll 1, C. Johnson 1, E. Saunders 1, J. Marek 1. WANGARATTA: C. Petersen 1, O. Roberts 1, R. Schultz 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: E. Saunders, C. Lugg, C. Boman, R. Harvey, E. White, J. Correll. WANGARATTA: C. Donald, O. Roberts, W. Petersen, O. Boyle, T. Berry.
WINNERS AND LOSERS
GOALS: BRIGHT: C. Thomason 6, W. Wales 3, L. Quirk 3, P. Bren 2, S. Dalbosco 1, R. Bacon 1, M. Kinthari 1, J. Love 1. WHOROULY: A. Newton 1, J. Smith 1. BEST: BRIGHT: D. Chellew, W. Wales, J. Crawley, S. Dalbosco, C. Banks, A. Dalbosco. WHOROULY: J. Smith, C. Southern, R. Eden, G. White, C. Wood, S. Ferguson. NTH WANGARATTA 3.3 5.5 6.7 11.7.73
BONNIE DOON 3.3 8.3 9.6 11.8.74
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA : C. Smith 4, B. Lane-Gee 3, J. Devine 3, T. Schulze 1. BONNIE
DOON : J. Law 5, L. Walsh 2, E. Ivill 1, K. Curran 1, P. Cairns 1, J. Curtin 1. BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA : M. Smith, B. Raggett, M. Curtis, C. Smith, T. Schulze, D. Bradley. BONNIE
DOON : J. Law, P. Cairns, T. Snooks, J. Malan, B. Hedin, J. Curtin.
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE: Milawa 39 def Greta 31
King Valley 22 def by Tarrawingee 49 Nth Wang 27 def by Bonnie Doon 50 Moyhu 36 def by Goorambat 41
B GRADE:
Milawa 45 def Greta 34; Nth Wang 20 def by Bonnie Doon 44; Moyhu 34 def by Goorambat 41
B RESERVE:
Milawa 21 def by Greta 39; Nth Wang 15 def by Bonnie Doon 61; Moyhu 47 def Goorambat 23;
King Valley 27 def by Tarrawingee 41; Milawa 36 def Greta 30; Nth Wangaratta 8 def by Bonnie Doon 80; Moyhu 43 def Goorambat 8
ROUND �
SATURDAY, APRIL ��
BONNIE DOON vs MOYHU
GOORAMBAT vs GRETA
WHOROULY vs KING VALLEY
BENALLA vs NTH WANGARATTA
TARRAWINGEE vs MILAWA
BRIGHT � BYE
KING VALLEY 4.7 7.9 9.16 11.18.84
TARRAWINGEE 1.2 3.3 4.6 7.9.51
GOALS: KING VALLEY: B. Wheeler 3, T. Mears 2, H. Sims 2, S. Jansen 2, J. Finger 1, J. Cook
1. TARRAWINGEE: N. Gorman 2, W. Phillips 1, S. Piper 1, A. Cook 1, O. Sharp 1. BEST: KING VALLEY: Jack Davies TARRAWINGEE:
GOALS: MILAWA : B. Bartlett 4, H. Allan 2, A. Law 2, J. Lea 1, J. Radovanovic 1, B. Kearns
1. GRETA : F. Judd 5, C. Crawford 3, J. McClounan 2, B. Pearson 1, J. Kelly 1, L. Kennett 1, B. Newbold 1, T. Arrowsmith 1. BEST: MILAWA : H. Allan, B. Kearns, A. Law, D. Bihun, J. Radovanovic, J. Lea. GRETA : L. Kennett, J. Kelly, X. Wales, J. McClounan, T. Arrowsmith, C. Crawford.
GOALS: MOYHU : H. Grant 4, D. West 1, D. McDonald 1, N. Stewart 1,
Zimmermann 1, N. Gamble 1. GOORAMBAT : D. Haebich 4, R. Goodley 4, A. Blackburn 1, S. Briggs 1, J. Dunne 1, C. Hunter 1. BEST: MOYHU : H. Grant, L. Suffield, H. Verdon, D. McDonald, C. Gibson, P. McNamara. GOORAMBAT : C. Anker, J. Dunne,
Premier Blues on the board over Dees
AFTER their false start to the ag defence last weekend, Greta’s senior football squad banked the points against a tough Milawa outt 15.12 (100) to 11.11 (77) on Saturday.
The Blues were eager to record a win a er a loss to Bright in the opening round, but took some time to work into the contest.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
the tank and on the scoreboard to kick away late, home by 23 points.
Greta coach Chris Dube said it was a vital result a er a lacklustre rst week.
The Demons were impressive early, booting ve goals in the opening quarter to take a 20-point lead by quarter time before Greta shot back.
Defensively sound and dynamic through the corridor, Greta ate up the de cit and opened one of their own, up by a kick at the long break.
Gun mid elders James McClounan and Jack Kelly found their feet, keeping the Blues’ forward line well supplied.
Milawa kept coming, but saw chances go begging to trail by 10 points at the nal break.
The Blues had enough in
“We hadn’t played our best football against Bright so there were a few proud players who wanted to bounce back, so it was nice, against a strong opposition, to correct that immediately,” he said.
“It took a quarter or so to work out a few structural things we wanted to change.
“There was a bit of a breeze but once we made a few corrections we looked like a far better ball-moving side, that’s for sure.”
Lachie Kennett was immense in the ruck for the Blues, while McClounan and Kelly were among the best on ground.
Frazer Judd ( ve goals) and Cody Crawford (three goals)
AGGRESIVE PLAY: Braydon Kearns looks to send the Demons forward.
led the scoring for Greta, while Milawa’s Brady Bartlett (four goals), Harry Allan and Aaron Law (two goals each) impacted the scoreboard.
“If you can get the ball somewhere near [Frazer] Judd and [Cody] Crawford, then you can start locking in the opposition from higher up the ground, it just gives you such an advantage if the ball comes out, because at
times it will come out,” Dube said.
“It was nice it was such an even contribution but there is no doubt some of our prime movers really got busy.
“Macca [McClounan] and Des [Kelly] in particular through the middle, it was a different sort of game, there was a bit of grunt, and Lachie got to do the classy La-
chie stuff that he does.”
While a win is a win in the bank, Dube said the season had just started, and there was a long road to travel down.
“We’re in a position where losses feel heavy but we were really clear as a group that a er Bright, there’s another 20 weeks of football to go,” he said.
“Training on Tuesday and
Thursday has been really strong, we’ve got such an engaged group with high numbers, blokes who are doing catch-ups and extras.
“Winning form is good form, but we’re under no illusion that it’s going to be a war of attrition like every other year, and we need to find ways to get wins when we’re not at our absolute best.”
One-point heartbreak for Hawks, Bright put Lions to the sword
By NATHAN DE VRIES
ROUND two of the 2025 Ovens and King season threw up close matches and blowouts across the senior football competition.
At North Wangaratta, Bonnie Doon was able to edge out the home team in an agonising one-point win over the Hawks.
The Bombers were able to withstand a much-improved North Wang out t to run out winners by the barest of margins, 11.8 (74) to 11.7 (73).
A er a deadlocked rst term, the Bombers began to kick away, booting ve goals to two to open up a 16-point margin at the half.
The arm-wrestle continued through the third quarter, with the Hawks managing to arrest some of Bonnie Doon’s momentum.
The stage was set for a massive nal term, and the Hawks surged back into the contest, but the Bombers had enough in the tank to maintain the lead until the nal siren.
Elsewhere, injuries rocked Whorouly in their attempt to
defeat the Mountain Men at Pioneer Park.
For most of the game the Lions operated with a depleted or non-existent bench, as Bright capitalised with an 18.16 (124) to 2.2 (14) nal score.
A ve goal to two opening term set the tone, and while the Lions found the scoreboard in the second quarter, Bright was able to run the game out well to dominate possession and scoring.
Cooper Thomason nished with six goals, and Darcy Chellew and Wayland Wales were impactful, while Jessie Smith and Corey Southern fought hard for the Lions all day.
Goorambat was able to keep its strong start to the season going with a threegoal win over the Hoppers at Moyhu.
The experienced Bats ran well with the younger Hoppers list and took a 12.8 (80) to 9.9 (53) victory to remain undefeated.
Up at Whit eld, King Valley took the points over Tarrawingee 11.18 (84) to 7.9 (51).
TAP OUT: Ed Bramich and Joe Crawley leap in the ruck.
PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
BALL IT UP: Corey Southern is wrapped up by Rod Arguello.
PHOTO: Richard Xerri
MARKED: Cooper Thomason holds onto the mark over Whorouly’s Sam Ferguson. PHOTO: Richard Xerri
MOVE IT ON: Jayden Whitehouse is called to play on.
PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
SHORT KICK: DANIEL CASSIDY CHIPS A BALL WIDE TO SWITCH THE FOOTY.
MATCH REVIEWS SO
Magpies come over the top of premiers Rovers by two goals in all-time classic derby clash
■ From back page
Jasper Craven and Parker Heatley kicked three goals each, while core Magpies Jackson Clarke, Mathew Grossman and Chris Knowles were among the best.
“Rovers are very strong around the footy, so to even halve the contest in there was important for our guys to be able to measure up,” Heatley said.
“A couple of key moments went our way, we were able to play a portion of the last quarter in our forward 50, there was a bit of a breeze but we were able to get some territory.
“I thought Jasper Craven in his first game for the club was outstanding around the footy, amongst others.”
For the Hawks, Alex McCarthy and Will Christie were strong, while Oscar Cleeland impressed up forward with a brace of goals.
Rovers football operations manager Barry Sullivan said while the end result was disappointing, the effort could not be faulted.
“It was a very tight contest played in fantastic conditions – it was a real armwrestle all day but one where there were little bursts of momentum,” he said.
“It was a high-pressure game, it came down to who was able to take advantage of the small windows of opportunity, and Wangaratta did that really well in the last quarter.
“Sam Murray himself was very good, his first half was as good as any on the ground, and Alex McCarthy and Dylan Wilson did take advantage of some opportunities up forward.”
FAST HANDS: Will Christie pops a handball up.
LEG SPEED: Will O'Keefe bursts from the back in the Magpies' derby win over Rovers.
CLEARANCE: Sam Murray bursts through the centre of the ground.
GOT HIS KICK: Harrison Hewitt boots the ball clear of the contest.
INTO SPACE: Jasper Craven boots the ball into the pocket. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
POSSESSION PLAY
ZAC Northey works the ball around in the Blues’ statement win over Milawa. The Blues picked up their first win of the year a er trailling at quarter time.
■ Story page 14.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Derby thriller
Magpies come over the top of premiers Rovers by two goals in all-time
THE Wangaratta Derby has a knack for producing stunning matches, and the rst of the 2025 season was no exception at WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday.
O&M senior footy 2024 premiers Wangaratta Rovers played host to the Magpies and the larger O&M community, as the beloved rivalry was the standalone
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@
nemedia.com.au
xture to kick o the season. In a result which not many would see coming, the reigning premiers were downed on their own deck, the Magpies coming over the top with a 12-point win, 15.8
(98) to the Hawks’ 13.8 (86).
It was an arm-wrestle from the rst siren, the ball ping-ponging between the arcs as both sides looked for a clean possession inside forward 50.
It would take just over eight minutes for the rst goal to be kicked, Magpie co-captain Jackson Clarke taking advantage of a loose
ball to run into the open goal.
The struggle continued, with Rovers ring back with two majors of their own to take a six-point margin at the rst break.
The ‘Pies found the rst goals of the nal term but the Hawks answered in kind, but as the quarter wore on the Magpies were just
classic derby clash
that little bit cleaner, and it ended up showing on the scoreboard.
Magpies coach Jason Heatley said it was a thrilling game to be part of.
“It was a really tough, even contest that ebbed and owed both ways at di erent times,” he said.
“The game was really hot, it certainly wasn’t an
uncontested match, there was a lot of heat on the footy which tends to put pressure of guys ahead of the footy either way.
“Both sides were really tenacious and fought it our right to the end.
“It was a terri c game of footy, great for the community.”
