AROUND 1500 people helped mark the centenary celebrations of the Peechelba Memorial Hall last Saturday.
Entrepreneurial young stallholders (from le ) Toby, Charlee and Haylee Dickson were doing their bit to keep the big crowd fed. STORY PAGE 2
Police dismay as 300 o ences recorded in 10-day road blitz, 23 impaired drivers charged
LOCAL police have been
le astounded a er drink and drug driving detections more than doubled in the last three days of a 10-day road safety blitz.
Operation Compass ran over the Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends in an
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
e ort to reduce road trauma, with a focus on distraction, fatigue, impaired driving, speed and seatbelts.
Despite the heightened police presence on the major thoroughfares of the Wangaratta Police Service Area, 12 drink and drug drivers were caught from 24-27 April a er 11 drug drivers were detected in the operation’s rst week.
Sergeant Shaun Hillier of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said while there was a reduction in local road-related incidents, the 300 tra c offences recorded throughout the operation were “concerningly high”.
“I am extremely con-
cerned by the results,” he said.
“The statistics are well and truly above what we expect… it boggles my mind how people can be so silly.
“Given some of the dangerous behaviours we witnessed, our community
could have very easily recorded more deaths or serious injuries on our road.”
There were also numerous incidents of speeding near the rural city over the ANZAC Day weekend which resulted in vehicle impoundments.
■ Continued page 7
COUNTRY Press Australia wants candidates at the 3 May federal election to support a policy demanding a fairer share of government advertising be allocated to regional and local newspapers.
Country Press Australia
president Andrew Schreyer said there was an overwhelming need for the next federal government to do more to address the challenges faced by producers of essential public interest journalism, and for the government to do so more swi ly.
“It’s extremely disappointing to our industry to see major city-based media entities and overseas owned tech giants such as Meta receive such a signi cant share of government
advertising, especially when the government openly recognises the role our papers play in our democracy,” he said. “And it is even more alarming when you consider these same social media platforms provide a haven for mis and dis information, for mistruths, and for scams that have caused great distress to many vulnerable Australians”.
Mr Schreyer said the more than 240 regional and local papers that are part of Country Press Australia - incuding the Wangaratta Chronicle - have rightfully earned a high level of trust within the communities they serve, and that social media platforms cannot o er the same levels of truth, integ-
O
Local papers generally rate highly for trustworthiness compared to other news sources.. - Andrew Schreyer
rity or accountability that local media does.
He said it was also important to realise that local papers continue to provide a beacon of truth for local issues and candidates, and in many cases the local paper is the sole provider of hyper-local place-based public interest journalism.
“Our papers have an important responsibility to report on
local candidates and issues, to hold candidates and government organisations accountable and to be a voice for local communities in regional, rural and other local communities across Australia,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Local papers generally rate highly for trustworthiness compared to other news sources, with many studies con rming people tend to trust local
news more than national or social media because it is closer to their communities and less in uenced by political or corporate agendas.
“Here in Australia, research by the University of Canberra’s Digital News Report has consistently found that local newspapers are among the most trusted news sources, yet our government continues to direct tens of millions of Australian taxpayer dollars to overseas-owned social media platforms that don’t operate to the standards we expect of local media and of ourselves.”
Country Press Australia has called on the next federal government to adopt a policy that re ects the Victorian gov-
ernment model of an average one-page per week of government advertising in all eligible regional and rural newspaper as part of a ra of policies that also include tax credits for journalist labour costs and funding for cadet journalists in regional and rural areas.
“Country Press Australia has briefed both major parties on the policies it believes need to be incorporated into reforms to better support public interest journalism in this country,” Mr Schreyer said.
“If our politicians truly value the important role of local newspapers, then they must also do more to ensure that this overdue support is delivered as soon as possible.”
By SIMONE KERWIN
PEECHELBA Memorial Hall was the centre of centenary celebrations on Sunday, as the community gathered to remember the hall’s important role in the district.
About 1500 people owed through the hall and its surrounds for the day’s festivities, which included a 65-stall market and a wellattended car show and shine event.
O cial proceedings, led by hall committee president Des Fogarty, included a agraising by Les Davey, centenary address by Graeme Nish, presentation from Liz Rouse Salmon of Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch about local soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Moira Shire chair administrator Graeme Emonson.
Mr Emonson said the hall stood as a “proud and enduring symbol of community
“From dances and wedding receptions to community meetings, school concerts, and solemn memorials, the Peechelba Memorial Hall has welcomed generations through its doors,” he said.
“It has served as a source of lasting memories for
“As we mark this centenary, we re ect on the original vision of those who built this hall - many of them returning servicemen and families determined to create a place that honoured the past while building a hopeful future.
“It is tting that today we not only celebrate the physical longevity of this hall, but also the resilience and cohesion of the community it continues to serve.”
Those attending the event also enjoyed dance displays from Letz Danze rock-n-roll group and John and Andrea Barwick, as well as demonstrations from the CFA and Ambulance Victoria, as they re ected on their own connections to the hall.
PHOTOS:
A WANGARATTA teen who is accused of stabbing a 37-year-old man at a Wangaratta home on Friday night was “blacked out” drunk, a court has heard.
Appearing virtually from custody at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on Monday, the 18-year-old looked visibly distressed as the court heard of an incident which le the victim paralysed and “unlikely to walk again”.
The Wangaratta teen was facing two charges of allegedly using a knife to recklessly and intentionally cause serious injury to a 37-year-old male.
Detective Senior Constable
Thomas Lonsdale of Wangaratta Family Violence Investigation Unit said the victim was stabbed once in the le arm, causing a laceration, and once in the mid torso, which le a puncture wound to the spine and partially tore a spinal cord.
“I’ve been told the injuries are life changing and it’s unlikely he’ll walk again,” he said.
The injured man was airli ed to The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne where he remained on Monday, yet to make a statement to police.
Det Sen Const Lonsdale said the defendant told police he couldn’t remember anything
about the incident, having allegedly drank one litre of Jameson whiskey throughout the day.
“He spends most of his income on alcohol which he drinks daily,” he said.
In his time in custody, Det Sen Const Lonsdale said the defendant had been uncooperative with sta in Wangaratta and had been spitting on cameras.
“He is an unacceptable risk to the community if released…he is known to police to be drunk o en,” he said.
The teenager’s father appeared as a witness testifying to house his son if released,
but police prosecutor Senior Constable Ramadan Hamidon raised concerns about the “lack of control” the father had over his son when he became agitated.
The court viewed police body camera footage of four o cers responding to a noise complaint at the defendant’s address earlier this month.
The accused, his brother and father were celebrating a 16th birthday when police arrived and the defendant came out visibly drunk, loudly verbally abusing o cers.
The defendant’s father attempted to calm the situation, telling police “he’ll lose the
plot if you don’t go away”.
At court, the father said due to a di cult upbringing, his son held a prejudice against authority and gets frightened when he sees police.
He said he was “the only one” that could calm him down.
“We’ve tried to get him help for a long time… he’s a very emotional kid,” he said.
Magistrate Olivia Trumble said she was concerned by the behaviour of the defendant, particularly in the video shown to court and he would be an unacceptable risk to the community if he was released to live with his father.
Magistrate Trumble adjourned the bail application to Thursday, awaiting assessments from a psychologist and a bail support program.
“It is really important in those two assessments you talk about what your di culties are and what you need help with,” she said.
“Everything is not hunkydory.”
Th investigation into the alleged Wangaratta stabbing incident is ongoing.
Anyone with information or CCTV footage was urged to contact Wangaratta police on (03) 5723 0888 or CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
SHAUN Mason has commenced his tenure as Galen Catholic College principal, welcoming students back for term two this week.
Catholic Education Sandhurst schools in the district have had an extra week of holidays following term one, as sta undertook professional learning days related to the Magnify Sandhurst program.
This program focuses on strengthening core areas like literacy and numeracy, building supportive classroom environments, and integrating Catholic values in daily learning.
Mr Mason, who was a deputy principal at Galen a decade ago, was appointed in December to take the reins from previous principal Darta Hovey.
He spent term one at FCJ College in Benalla, where he has been principal for the past three-and-a-half years, while that school worked towards appointing a new principal.
Jim Samon has held the role of interim principal for the rst term, and will now return to his deputy principal role.
Mr Mason, who has also previously worked at Xavier High School in Albury and Catholic College Wodonga, has a passion for learning and teaching, and is known for his focus on student growth and
I’m
especially excited to be back at Galen and to be part of a community I know and care about.
TO
sta collaboration.
known as Galen Catholic College.
The school began in 1975, which is the occasion being marked by the anniversary celebrations.
St Patrick’s Hall was its temporary home, with classes beginning in the new college buildings halfway through the year, and Brother Ross Keane the school’s rst principal.
In 1982, the Marist Brothers handed over the reins of Champagnat and Galen to the Wangaratta parish, and in 1983, Sr Anne Boyd assumed the role of principal of the enlarged Galen Catholic College (amalgamated with St Joseph’s and Champagnat).
The anniversary celebrations, on August 29 and 30, are open to everyone who has been part of the St Joseph’s, Champagnat or Galen communities over the years.
- Shaun Mason
“What I’m most looking forward to is getting to know all our students - their stories, their families - and being able to put faces to names,” Mr Mason said.
“I’m especially excited to be back at Galen and to be part of a community I know and care about.”
Mr Mason is committed
to expanding the breadth of subject o erings available at Galen, ensuring the college continues to respond to the evolving needs of its students.
He also places strong emphasis on parent engagement, encouraging families to play an active role in their child’s learning journey.
Mr Mason’s appointment comes at a signi cant time for
Galen, as the school prepares to celebrate 50 years of providing quality Catholic education in the region.
Galen’s history actually stretches back to 1888, when four Brigidine Sisters from Ireland opened Brigidine Convent Wangaratta.
The secondary school was known as St Joseph’s High School, later referred to as The
Convent, and in 1955 became St Joseph’s College.
Champagnat College was opened in 1955 as a day and boarding school as well as a juniorate for the Marist Brothers.
In 1974, the availability of a Federal Government grant led to the decision to establish a regional co-educational college for years 11 and 12, to be
College tours will be held between 10am and 1pm on Friday, August 29, followed by a ticketed gala dinner, ‘Celebrating Generations of Galen’, that evening at Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway.
Mass will be held at the college on Saturday, August 30 from 10am, followed by light refreshments.
Tickets can now be purchased for the gala evening, and more information about all events over the two days is available at https://www.galen. vic.edu.au/community/alumni/old-collegians
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Q1 Explain three things you would pursue as Indi’s MP, to help ease cost of living expenses?
A1 I’ve already fought for and secured a $2.3 billion commitment to cheaper home batteries to lower household energy bills. If reelected I will fight to: Take on the big supermarkets by establishing a Supermarket Ombudsman that protects shoppers and farmers. I would also put all big businesses abusing their market power on notice by legislating an economy-wide divestiture power. Lower household energy bills for all households by creating a scheme that enables homeowners to install batteries and other energy efficiency upgrades at no upfront cost. Lower energy bills for small business and primary producers energy by creating a $30,000 tax write-off.
A1
First, I’ll fight for fair wages and secure jobs—Labor’s IR reforms are already helping workers get a better deal. Second, I’ll support Labor’s tax cuts that are now delivering more money into the pockets of working people. And third, I’ll push for continued cost-of-living relief through energy bill support, cheaper medicines, and access to free TAFE and child care. Labor is easing the pressure now - and building a fairer future.
Q2 In your final pitch to the Indi electorate, why should they vote for you?
A2 Being Independent works for Indi. Whether that’s fighting for stranded communities during the pandemic, relief after bushfires, shaping national housing solutions, or securing a National Anti-Corruption Commission, I’ve had local impact and national influence. There’s no big party telling me how to vote or not to fight for something because it’s not on their list. I am laser focused on working for Indi and a fair deal for regional Australia. I’ll keep working for the infrastructure we need to unlock housing and improve health services, access to childcare and better telecommunications. I’ll keep working to hold the government to account, to restore integrity and stamp out corruption. I’m working with you and for you, and I’ll keep fighting for Indi.
I’m running to be Indi’s voice in a Labor Government that’s delivering for working people. From cost-of-living tax cuts and cheaper medicines to fairer workplace laws and regional job growth, Labor is backing communities like ours. I’ll fight for better services, more local opportunities, and a fair go for every town. With me, Indi won’t be left behind - we’ll have a seat at the table and someone who puts locals first.
A1
Only the Liberals have a plan for immediate cost of living relief and long-term measures to bring down inflation. We are suffering from the worst cost of living crisis in a generation. This is not good enough. The Liberals will cut the fuel tax in half, saving you 25 cents on every litre of fuel. This is a saving of $1,500 over 12 months for a family with two cars. This will happen immediately. The Liberals will deliver a Cost of Living Tax Offset to more than 64,710 local taxpayers, meaning 93% of tax payers in Indi will receive up to $1,200 in tax relief when they lodge their tax return for the upcoming financial year. We will also rein in wasteful government spending that is fuelling inflation and get interest rates down.
A1 One Nation is dedicated to easing cost of living pressures. We propose halving fuel excise for three years, saving 26 cents per litre, reducing transport and food costs. We’ll reduce electricity bills by 20% by prioritising affordable coal and gas, with renewables for peak demand. Couples with dependent children can file joint tax returns, splitting income to lower taxes and support family finances, reducing childcare reliance. These policies aim to put money back in people’s pockets, strengthening family units and communities, complementing our broader cost of living relief initiatives.
A1 The Greens are working for solutions to genuinely solve the climate and environment crisis, the housing crisis and the cost of living crisis, not just tinker around the edges. We’re working to bring down the cost of groceries, to stop unlimited rent increases, deliver low rate mortgages, and phase out the billions in government tax handouts to property investors with more than one property, to give renters and first home buyers a chance. We’re fighting for better rights and higher pay for working people. We’d restore the billions Labor has cut from the NDIS and lift income support to make sure no one is living below the poverty line.
A1
It’s not a cost of living crisis, it is a Cost of government crisis. Government taxes and bureaucracy and regulation are making Australia too expensive. We will cut income taxes to a flat 20% on incomes over $50K, and abolish excise tax on fuel and alcohol. We will reform energy policy to cut power prices. And we will reduce government participation in the economy, freeing up resources. We will stabilise the money supply and end the inflation tax, and cut government deficits and interest payments. Cut back migration to reduce house prices. The government is the cause of rising prices, and the Libertarian party has the solution – less government.
A1 Family First is focused on electricity prices at this election. The mismanaged transition to renewables requires government to now rapidly build new reliable generation to avoid grid instability and price spikes. Gas is the best choice with a reservation policy to keep prices down. There are also huge inequities in what people pay for electricity. It’s often the poorest who pay the most. We need to restructure electricity retailing to ensure that no one is missing out on winter heating because they are being charged rip off tariffs of four times the wholesale price. Family First also wants to cut red tape around housing construction and introduce family friendly tax structures.
A2 I’m running for parliament because I believe it’s time for change in Indi, to get Australia back on track. My wife Amanda and I own and operate a small business, run a farm at Talgarno, and like so many people across the North East, pay a mortgage and support our family. Just like you, we’re feeling the cost of living pinch. Everything is so much more expensive now than it was three years ago, when Albanese and Labor came to government - that’s why I believe it’s time for change. Peter Dutton and our Liberal Plan will lower inflation, create cheaper energy, build affordable homes, create safer communities, and deliver quality health care. It’s time for change in Indi to get Australia back on track.
A2 As a local mechanic and farmer from the Kiewa Valley, I am tired of Canberra’s neglect. Indi’s challenges include - housing shortages, farmland threats, economic and cost of living pressures. As your elected representative, I will genuinely listen to your concerns, ensuring true representation. One Nation’s bold vision to protect agriculture, boost housing, and ease financial burdens will support farmers, cut red tape, provide immediate cost of living relief and boost Australia’s economic future without reliance on hard working Australians to fund it. I’ll fight for Indi’s unique needs - safeguarding water resources, stopping unwanted renewable projects and increasing housing availability and affordability - while delivering prosperity. Vote for me to put Indi first with One Nation’s practical, common-sense solutions.
We’ve now seen Labor adopt a number of Greens policies – 50c fares in Queensland, wiping 20% of student debt, making it free to see the GP. With more Greens, we can finish the job – expand Medicare further to include dental, roll out 50c fares across the country, wipe all student debt. There will be a minority government and the Greens are within reach of winning seats right across the country. Last time there was a minority, the Greens got dental into Medicare for kids. This is our chance to deliver it for everyone. This election, vote 1 Greens to keep Peter Dutton out and get Labor to act.
A2 Australia is sliding out of control into economic and social disaster, and the major parties want to double down and do even more of what caused the problem. It won’t work. We have these cargo-cult candidates who think they can just supplicate to Canberra and endless money will come from the magic money tree to solve their problems. It won’t work. We need serious people to take charge and stop the fall. As a former MP, I have a track record of standing up and fighting for our rights, for sensible social and economic policy. The Libertarian Party is the only one with a workable plan to turn things around. We need real action now, not more politicians lies.
A2 Family First is a true conservative party that isn’t afraid to tackle the hard questions. There are many complex issues where an MP owes his or her constituents a carefully considered judgement - I can’t say exactly how I would vote on everything ahead of time. What I can guarantee is that when it comes to moral issues, support for our democratic principles such as freedom of speech, and support for policies that give first priority to what is best for our kids, I am not going to shift my ground. We need a party with a vision of how we can maintain and build a good and great society. In Australian politics Family First is the better story.
We have been unable to contact this candidate, nor get a response from his party. The following is taken from the party’s website.
REDUCE HARM: The criminlisation of cannabis use is a decades old, failed policy that disproportinately harms young and Indigenous people and leads to massive upheaval in the lives of otherwise law abiding citizens. CREATE JOBS: Legalising and regulating cannabis will bring one of the nation’s leading cash crops under the rule of law. This will create jobs and economic opportunities in the formal economy instead of the illicit market. SAVE MONEY: Scare law enforcement resrouces will be better used to ensure public safety while reducing corrections and court costs. Governments would acquire significant new sources of revenue for regulating cannabis sales. PROMOTE CONSUMER SAFETY: Cannabis product testing is becoming a standard requirement for legalised cannabis markets. This means consumers are better informed about the cannabis they use.
A1
First I would seek major income tax reform to get out of Labor’s recession policies. We must have a long term view to remove income tax all together. The Liberal’s GST only added more to the Federal Government’s coffers, with no relief as promised by them. Secondly, tear up the Paris Climate Accord which is just a redistribution of wealth, over all things, the weather! Climate gate is a lie mate, and will only enslave you and your future. Thirdly, greater support for builders, just like we supported the car industry. The only difference is that the car industry left anyway, while the builders still remained. This housing crisis was spurred on by Labor/Green and Orange Teal immigration ideals, and left us on the streets. What about us? The people who built this country were only shown the kerb!
A2
Indi needs to be kept out of the hands of the corporate climate gangsters, the solar factories are a testament to that. We need far greater mental health long stay facilities, and two great hospitals on the border helping to do that. I will fight for your rights and freedoms to choose medical bodily autonomy, and bring justice to those harmed and forgotten about by the current medical system. We only get one chance to right the wrongs of the government of the last six years, and this is it.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
WHILE Newcastle’s Di and Peter Paice had seen it all in what car shows have to o er in their seven years of visiting the North East, there was nothing like the Wangaratta Historic Motor Show and Fly In.
As they sat comfortably in a Dodge parked next to their son’s baby blue Ford Dodge ute at the Wangaratta Aerodrome on Sunday as second time visitors to the biennial event, the couple were amazed by the wide variety of what the show had to o er.
While historic warbirds and aircra s buzzed through the bright blue skies beaming on a 26 degree day, historic vehicles including trucks, busses, re engines, ambulance, police cars, veteran, vintage and classic vehicles, tractors and stationary engines were scattered across the elds of the airport.
“This is such a unique event,” Peter said.
An estimated 2000 people made their way down Greta Road for the h installment of the show to enjoy around 600 displays of aerial, land and even water’s nest engines.
Chairman of the show’s organising committee, Martin Ziermann, said it was fantastic to see people from all walks of life admiring and engaging in the vast diversity of historic machinery on o er.
“In my observations there was a lot of communication going on between interested people and display holders talking about their cars, giving an explanation about what they’ve done with it and how long they’ve had it,” he said.
“There’s not many places you can go to that has that diversity of the historic machinery.
“It grew from humble beginnings at the livestock exchange, moving to the airport for the Fly In component and it’s taken o from there.”
One of the most unique displays was a small replica
warship in the historic war vehicle section of the airport, the H61 Ulysses, owned by Joel and Skye Iskov.
The ship built in 1951 was tted with guns, rockets, water cannons and more recreational features like a shing sounder and a shing rod holder.
Mr Iskov said the boat
had originally been a small family canoe, transformed into the replica using steel and iron scrap metal.
“I bought it and just fell in love with it,” he said.
“It has all the bells and whistles.”
At the heart of the event has always been raising funds for a nominated local
ALL
charity or organisation to ensure money raised stays in the community.
More than $30,000 has been donated to local charity organisations from proceeds generated during the event’s lifetime.
A charity auction was held on Saturday night for the vehicle display holders, with 120 people attending to
raise $2500 to a nominated community organisation.
Mr Ziermann said while the funds were yet to be calculated for this year’s event, the committee was thankful to see the ongoing generous support from the community towards the event was as strong as it was when it started in 2017.
“The committee worked extremely hard and long hours to get this together, it’s a credit to the six clubs involved,” he said
“We have as our goal to make it as exciting as possible and they did a lot of work to get their members participating and make it enjoyable.”
It’s not just your life you’re gambling with
MANY locals got away to enjoy the good things in life over Easter with family and friends, whether it was within the region or further abroad.
However, some motorists were putting their lives and those of other motorists and passengers at a greater risk based on results from the local police operation over the Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends.
The last three days of a 10-day blitz had the number of drink and drug-affected motorists more than double earlier figures during the operation.
There were 23 drug and drink drivers detected, which is concerning to police, but would also be to any responsible member of the public.
In this day and age and with all the safety messages, advertising and news about the horrendous tragedies on our roads, these people continue to play with theirs and other people’s lives.
Road fatalities during times like Easter are usually higher with more volume of vehicles on Victorian roads, fatigue from people driving longer distances, speed, and driver distractions.
There were 300 traffic offences recorded over the 10 days as well.
For motorists to ignore the messages and get behind the wheel if they know they might be over the limit or taking illicit drugs, it’s mystifying.
It should be a hard line against the behaviour regarding any conversation that involves drink or drug driving.
If your mate or family member is about to drive after they’ve had a few and could be over the limit, stop them.
A hard stance against this behaviour is worth it rather than your friends, family members and potential victims suffering in the most incomprehensible way through serious injury or loss of life.
1
The 1980 album, Black Rose, is the only album by the band, Black Rose, whose lead singer was which person?
(a) Cher (b) Madonna (c) Sting (d) Seal
2
Ian Clunies Ross has appeared on which Australian banknote?
(a) Fifty-dollar (b) Twenty-dollar (c) Ten-dollar (d) Five-dollar
3
The game of Mahjong originated in which country?
(a) Japan
(b) Korea (c) China (d) Bhutan
4
Which movie won the most awards at the 2022 Academy Awards ceremony?
(a) Belfast (b) CODA (c) Dune (d) King Richard
5
A traditional bouillabaisse is a type of stew based on what?
(a) Chicken (b) Beans (c) Beef (d) Fish
6
Which of the following countries has a coastline
I WRITE with regard to the qualities we look for in persons we deal with in life.
If we need work done on our home or unit we usually search for trade persons who are capable and experienced, honest and fair.
We look for a person who will generally work hard and do a good job.
If we look to rent a property we prefer a landlord who is honest and fair and who cares for both property and tenant.
Why not apply these same expectations when deciding on the person we vote for as our representative in Federal parliament, over the next three years.
Our choice of candidate for the seat of Indi – and each seat in Australia for that matter, is crucial.
on the Red Sea?
(a) Libya (b) Sudan (c) United Arab Emirates (d) Lebanon
7
The 1886 play, On the Harmful Effects of Tobacco, was written by which well-known playwright?
(a) Anton Chekhov (b) Henrik Ibsen (c) Eugene O’Neill (d) Oscar Wilde
8
In July 2022, Australianborn Victor Radley announced he would like to play for which country at the 2021-22 Rugby League World Cup?
(a) New Zealand (b) Australia (c) England (d) Ireland
9 The two official languages of Finland are Finnish and which other language? (a) 20 (b) 40 (c) 60 (d) 80
1010 The Sushruta Samhita, written around 800 BC, contains 184 chapters based on what? (a) Poisonous foods (b) Sexual positions (c) Yoga poses (d) Medical procedures
Our long term future depends on it.
Doug Cosson, Wangaratta.
PETER Dutton has announced a policy of a cost-of-living bene t - a halving of the fuel tax excise - 50.8 cents becomes 25.4 cents per litre - so the price should drop by at least 25.4 cents per litre.
What he hasn’t said is whether he will do what the Morrison government did in 2022.
Morrison’s government halved the fuel tax excise from 44.2 to 22.1 cents per litre.
Farmers and business need to be reminded that Morrison also halved the fuel tax credit paid to businesses on all fuel purchased for business machinery and o road uses during the same period.
In other words, business got nothing.
Dutton has made no mention of that part of the equation.
Peter Leonard, Wangaratta
CARAVAN & Residential Parks Victoria is calling on the Victorian government to urgently address problems with its free camping policy and expand the initiative to include regulated parks to reduce the growing issue of ‘ghost camping’.
The April school holidays, and Easter long
weekend, again saw state government free camp sites remain near empty, resulting in signi cant economic losses for regional communities and frustration among genuine campers.
Unlike unregulated free camps, privately operated caravan (tourist) parks operate under strict regulation and o er safe, a ordable and family-friendly camping experiences with access to clean amenities, emergency infrastructure and professional onsite sta .
They also play a vital role in regional economies, with tourist parks accounting for over 50 per cent of overnight stays in regional Victoria, contributing $2.4 billion in economic value to the state, and supporting 17,000 jobs.
Since 1 December 2024, private tourist parks have been operating in an unfair market, forced by the Victorian government to compete with free, unregulated camp sites, eroding private park occupancy rates, revenue and pro tability.
Two months ago, I provided the Minister for Tourism Steve Dimopoulos with several options to support private tourist park businesses and the thousands of private park campers who have sought the same nancial bene t as those camping for free in Parks Victoria campgrounds.
If the goal is to make outdoor holidays more a ordable and accessible, regulated tourist parks must be part of the solution.
For example, providing campers in private
caravan (tourist) parks with a voucher worth a similar discount to that which the government is providing campers in their own unregulated campgrounds would give Victorians more choice, provide much greater support for our small business operators and avoid some of the waste created by a poorly managed free booking system. Victorians would be able to redeem camping credits at either public sites or our regulated member tourist parks.
We urge the Victorian government to immediately engage with industry and implement reforms that restore credibility to the initiative and ensure equitable support for the businesses that serve as the backbone of regional tourism.
Scott Parker, Caravan & Residential Parks Victoria
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Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
WANGARATTA will be one of ve target communities across the North East that could bene t from a community battery crowdfunding campaign.
Indigo Power is launching a $750,000 community equity crowdfunding campaign that aims to establish 10 new community batteries.
It will leverage the raised funds to unlock a total of $5.8m in energy infrastructure.
Indigo Power has already secured a $4.2 million grant from
the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
Combined with an $800,000 loan from Bank WAW currently in nal negotiations, the community investment is forecast to grow.
“This is a high-impact investment,” Indigo Power managing director Ben McGowan.
“Every dollar invested in this raise will be multiplied more than six times, thanks to a $4.2 million grant secured from ARENA and an $800,000 loan
from Bank WAW, which is currently in nal negotiations.”
The network will provide up to 5.8 megawatt hours of storage.
This will bring Indigo Power’s total community battery capacity to over seven megawatt hours.
These batteries will be located at emergency relief centres and other important community sites.
This is to ensure long-lasting backup power and to distribute
renewable energy to Indigo Power’s local electricity customers each evening.
“This raise builds on projects we’ve already delivered in places like Yackandandah and Yarra Junction, and will take our eet of community batteries to more than seven megawatt-hours of storage,” McGowan said.
“That’s almost enough to o set the net energy consumption of all our customers over the entire 2024 calendar year.”
The project’s commencement hinges on Indigo Power securing the full $1.5 million co-contribution.
It also hinges on nalising agreements with the chosen community battery host sites.
Target communities across regional Victoria and southern New South Wales include Beechworth, Myrtleford, Mount Beauty, Bright, Seymour, Wangaratta, Tumbarumba, and Warburton.
The initiative will provide
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
A TRUE example of community networking has resulted in the installation of solar power and a battery at Wangaratta’s Pangerang Community Hub.
The development began when Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability/Electrify Wangaratta member John Naylor met up with Pangerang Community Hub executive o cer Tennille Hall through their mutual involvement in a Glenrowan Solar Farm Community Bene t Fund steering group.
“I’d had contact from Heath (Shakespeare) at Indigo Power, who had heard about funding available through AusNet for the installation of solar power,” John said.
Ms Hall said this contact made through other community projects led to Pangerang applying for and receiving $30,000 through AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund (ERCF) to install the solar power and battery, with assistance from Indigo Power in lodging the application.
NETWORKING AT ITS BEST: Pangerang
Sustainability/Electrify Wangaratta
and Indigo Power project manager
The ERCF provides grants to community and not-forpro t organisations, local councils and small businesses to help build and strengthen community energy resilience, so that they are less impacted by and recover faster from extreme weather events and other electricity reliability challenges.
Funded projects must be located within AusNet’s electricity distribution area, and clearly demonstrate how
evening renewable energy supply for Indigo Power’s customers.
It will also provide long-duration backup power for essential community services. For further information visit https://www.birchal.com/company/indigopower.
An investor webinar is scheduled today - registrations can be made at https:// us02web.zoom.us/webinar/ register/4917440205578/ WN_8W4vA3b7TvGPYOZ
Police dismay: 300 offences recorded in 10-day road blitz, with 23 impaired drivers
■ From page 1
and a battery (inset) at Pangerang Community Hub in Ovens Street.
the project will improve or increase community energy resilience.
Ms Hall said the Pangerang Community Hub project would have bene ts for the wider community.
“In the event of power outage, we will be able to o er the community some support for vulnerable community members to charge medical devices and digital devices, among other things, through the use of the battery,” Tennille said.
“We are so grateful for this funding, which is absolutely not something we would ever be able to do as a neighbourhood house without this support.
“We would love to thank AusNet, Indigo Power and the wonderful John who started the process.”
Mr Naylor said the installation of solar power and a battery at Pangerang’s Ovens Street base was an example of local groups “all trying to make the world a
better place to live in”.
“It’s a clumsy metaphor, but it’s a little like when oxygen masks drop down on a plane and you need to care for yourself so that you can help others; that’s what happening here,” he said.
“The more of these resilient centres we can make around the place, the better for everyone.”
He said local groups seeking more information about how they could harness renewable power sources were
encouraged to email electrifywangaratta@wlsi.org.au
Heath Martin from AusNet said the next round of AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund would open in May, and more information could be obtained by contacting ERCF manager Kim Sullivan on 0499 781 580, or email ERCF@ausnetservices. com.au
Mr Shakespeare said locals looking for support to access this funding could contact Indigo Power.
Police detected a vehicle travelling at 170km/h on the Hume Freeway near Wangaratta on Friday evening, 25 April, after receiving multiple calls for an erratically driven vehicle. The vehicle was impounded for 30 days and the male driver will appear at court at a later date.
A New South Wales driver had their car impounded in the early hours of Sunday morning after police detected their car at 160km/h, also on the Hume Freeway near Wangaratta.
Police targeted hoon driving around Ryley Street and Tone Road in the early hours of 25 April, with one vehicle impounded and another given a major defect notice.
A car was found doing a series of burnouts mistaken for a fire on a footpath on Burke Street on Easter Monday.
While in Benalla, a driver was caught about 7pm on Good Friday blowing an alleged reading of .260 as they drove through the town’s main street with no headlights on.
“We were able to detect a number of impaired drivers over the duration of the operation,” Sgt Hillier said.
“These people will no longer have the privilege of driving a motor vehicle on our roads.” Local police conducted 9755 Preliminary Breath Tests across Wangaratta, Alpine and Moira shires during the operation.
DAWN SERVICE CHESHUNT & WHITFIELD
By GRACE FREDSBERG
LIKE its surrounding communities, Cheshunt and Whit eld honoured our fallen heroes on ANZAC Day with a commemorative dawn service at the Cheshunt Hall.
At 6am on Friday, 25 April, about 75 people gathered outside the hall for the service conducted by Terry Cork and Rodney Harrison.
Angie Hambling, King Valley Community Memorial Hall secretary, was pleased with the turnout and said locals were more than willing to “chip in” to the event.
“We had a re pit outside which was organised by some local men,” she said.
It was a very social event, with attendees lingering well a er the service had concluded according to Ms Hambling.
“Everyone stayed around talking until 7.30am,” she said.
ANZAC biscuits and light refreshments following the service were supplied by the King Valley CWA.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
THE 11am Friday ANZAC day service at Moyhu was particularly poignant and well-attended, with more than150 people present to re ect on those who served.
“Its getting bigger every year,” local volunteer and coorganiser Gaye Newton said.
Ms Newton said each year they share the story of a veteran from the North East.
This year, it was Terrance Renshaw.
In her speech she said Sapper Renshaw grew up in Wangaratta, where he was in the process of completing
his apprenticeship before he was conscripted into RAE (Royal Australian Engineers).
She said a er serving 144 days with his unit, Sapper Renshaw was tragically killed protecting his comrades from an active mine.
“Terrance’s brave and heroic actions had saved the lives of his mates,” she said.
“Both had been injured but survived.”
Ms Newton said she loves
learning about the lives of local heroes and continuing their legacy through telling their story.
“[It’s] so people can become involved in a veteran’s service, life and their sacrice,” she said.
Ex-serviceman Craig Thorp also spoke at the service, bringing attention to the sel ess spirit of the ANZAC.
“The spirit has and continues to be on display in our community,” he said.
“There are many within our community, young and old, that have and continue
YOUNG HISTORIANS: Greta Valley Primary School sta and students were joined by other locals and visitors to mark ANZAC Day at the Greta Cemetery on Thursday morning.
the service at Greta.
By SIMONE KERWIN
MORE than 60 people joined Greta Valley Primary School students and sta to mark ANZAC Day at the Greta Cemetery last Thursday.
Among those in attendance were Tim McCurdy
(MLA, Ovens Valley), RikkieLee Tyrrell (MLC, Northern Victoria) and Cr Harry Bussell from the Rural City of Wangaratta.
The service was also attended by rst-generation descendants of ANZACs who le the district.
The mid-morning service
remembered all those who le the district for World War I, with a focus on those who landed at Gallipoli.
Students were once again the guest speakers, and led the service with their research and presentations, along with their principal Howard Gibson.
MORE than 50 Thoona residents attended the ANZAC Day service held on Friday, 25 April at the Thoona War Memorial cenotaph.
Barry Irvine conducted the service and spoke about the Bomber Command squadron, and Jan James from Thoona CWA read ‘The Anzac on the Wall’ by Jim Brown.
Wreaths were laid by Emma and Isabel James, and junior Thoona CWA member Zoe Garratt.
Bruce Lowe raised the ag during the Reveille.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
ACTING Senior Sergeant Tim Hart was honoured on his nal day of service at Wangaratta’s 11am ANZAC Day service last Friday morning.
A er 43 years of service with the Victorian Police, Act Sen Sgt Hart is hanging up his boots but said he will still be present in the community.
“I came to Wangaratta with a ve-year plan and I’ve been here for 27 years,” he said.
“It’s a wonderful community and they support the local police force.
“Everything I love is in the North East, so I’m still here, I’m staying here and you’ll see me around.”
Act Sen Sgt Hart said it was lovely to be honoured by the community at the ANZAC Day service.
“ANZAC Day is something that is very close to me given my family history and I also spent time in the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
“My father served in Korea, my maternal grandfather was a bomber navigator in WWII, my paternal grandfather was in the artillery throughout WWI, and my great grandfather was a Victorian policeman for 33 years.
“There is a real family legacy here for me.
“That part of Australian history is very important to me and to be able to finish on this day is an extra special memory.
“I’ve loved my career, I’ve enjoyed my time as a policeman, there is not much I would change and I would do it all again.”
FIREWOOD depots at Glenrowan and Eldorado opened to residents from 8.30am on Tuesday, 29 April.
This follows the Country Fire Authority’s announcement that the North East region’s Fire Danger Period has been lifted.
Residents planning to collect firewood are advised to check depot stock levels before purchasing a permit from the Wangaratta Government Centre or Glenrowan Post Office.
Permits are not available from the Eldorado store this year.
A permit costs $25, or $16.50 for concession card holders and allows collection of up to two cubic metres.
A chainsaw is required to cut wood to a manageable size.
Safety measures must be adhered to at the depots.
The depot firewood is sustainably sourced, salvaged from storm events, council works, and plantation timber.
The wood is often green and generally requires seasoning for 12 months before burning.
Burning green firewood should be avoided as it produces more smoke, it is harder to light, it provides less heat, and it can block chimneys and flues.
Timber from the firewood depots is for domestic use only. and any on-selling is an offence and penalties apply.
To ensure fair access, a daily limit of two cubic metres and an annual limit of six cubic metres per household applies.
Accessing firewood from council depots without a permit will result in a fine.
Victoria Police Eastern Region Commander Karen Nyholm said Act Sen Sgt Hart has been an incredible in uence to many that he has worked with, and he has been an important part of the community.
“Tim probably could have done many things with his life, but he chose to serve the community, and I think that’s what makes him so special,” she said.
“Tim is so well respected, he is a man of integrity, and he connects with the community that he is a part of.
“It’s really special to honour him today.”
“We o en say police members have blue blood running through our veins and Tim represents that true-blue heart.
Collecting firewood from roadsides and reserves managed by council and Regional Roads Victoria is prohibited, and penalties apply.
Information regarding council firewood depots can be found at www. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Residents/Environment-and-sustainability/Collectingfirewood.
COLLEGE captains, Makenzie Clark and Sam Tiffin, respectfully laid the wreath at this year’s ANZAC Day service in tribute to those who served.
Throughout the service, students were reminded of the strength, bravery, and commitment shown by our servicemen and women, and were encouraged to carry those values forward.
WALKING TALL:
WPS school representatives at the ANZAC Day march included Olivia Smith, Maisie Broomfield, Ali Zaib, Brayden Howell, Nash Farrugia, Xavier VanSchaik, Sophia Boyle, Morgan Hope and Ella McGauran.
STUDENTS proudly took part in the ANZAC Day march, showing respect and gratitude for Australia’s servicemen and women. Their respectful participation reflected the school’s values and deepened their understanding of the importance of remembrance. The Wangaratta Primary School community is very proud of all students who represented the school so well.
SOCCER ACTION: Appin
Park students Aaiden Webb and Ed Wright prepare themselves for the ball coming their way.
THE school held an ANZAC Day ceremony last week and students laid wreaths under the school’s flag as part of the ceremony.
Year 3 student Jarrah Waldhart also wrote the following ANZAC
STUDENTS from year 1 to year 6 are enjoying playing soccer in mixed aged teams over the recess and lunch breaks.
Mr Kerlin organised the keen 40 players, into four teams - Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspurs - and the excitement and competitiveness is certainly palpable during game time.
It is pleasing to see the older students really encouraging and including the younger players, who continue to show a great willingness to take on any opponent.
Also great to see some girls not intimidated by the boys and prepared to get in amongst the hustle and bustle of the game.
Although scores are kept and a final will be played, all students are focused on running around and trying to get a kick to help their team.
poem for the occasion:
In war, many have fallen.
Hiding in a trench lies a man and his beloved dog, ready for their enemies to find and attack them.
The dog is puffed; the man is scared,
because what lies around is war, many dying.
Loud gunshots, lots of explosions here and there, lots of people hiding.
The man and the dog have been hiding in war for ages.
THE school’s VCE art and Media students travelled Melbourne to visit art exhibitions and Federation Square.
A highlight was visiting the National Gallery of Victoria and reflecting on the nature of dots and infinity at Yayoi Kusama’s blockbuster exhibition.
Students loved the interactive nature of it. They also enjoyed the street art scene in Melbourne.
4
1Which of the following is not a square number? Is it a) 169, b) 196, c) 125, or d) 64? 3
WITH the upcoming introduction of the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards under the new Aged Care Act, older Australians and their families can look forward to safer and more personalised care.
These new standards are part of the federal government’s broader reform to build a system that respects the rights, dignity and needs of our aging population.
At the forefront of this transformation is Timeless Support, a respected regional provider of in-home aged care services, known for its commitment to excellence and compassion.
Based in Wangaratta and servicing the surrounding areas, Timeless Support is already aligning its practices with the incoming standards to ensure a seamless transition for clients.
The Strengthened Quality Standards, set to take e ect from 1 July, 2025 focus on several key areas:
• The rights of older people are at the centre of care.
• Personalised and culturally-safe care, with a focus on choice and independence.
• Safe, e ective, and evidence-based care and services.
• Governance and leadership that ensure accountability.
• Partnering with carers, families, and communities to support each client’s goals.
BY MICHELLE AZARIS, TIMELESS SUPPORT
• Continuous quality improvement through feedback and monitoring.
“This reform is a signifi cant step forward,” Timeless Support business manager George Azaris said, welcoming the new changes.
“At Timeless Support, we already strive to exceed expectations, and these standards o er a clear and consistent framework for quality and safety across the sector.”
Timeless Support o ers a wide range of services including personal care, domestic assistance, respite, gardening and social support.
These services are all delivered by a skilled and compassionate team who treat every client with the dignity they deserve.
Families and older people looking for a provider who values professionalism, trust, and personalised service can get in touch via email admin@timelesssupport.com.au or phone 1300 292 747.
Alternatively, you can visit www.timelesssupport.com.au.
As the aged care sector evolves, Timeless Support remains a trusted name, delivering care with heart – now and into the future.
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FLU season in Australia can hit hard and it’s not just a bad cold – it’s a serious illness that can knock you o your feet for weeks.
Every year, thousands of Aussies end up in hospital because of the flu.
It can be especially dangerous for kids, older people and anyone with ongoing health issues.
However, there’s an easy way to protect yourself and those around you: the flu vaccine.
The flu vaccine is quick, safe, and e ective.
It doesn’t work instantly though, and will take about two weeks for your body to build up immunity.
That’s why it’s a good idea to get vaccinated early, before flu season really kicks o (usually between June and September).
Think of it as giving your immune system a head start.
Even if you’re fit and healthy, getting vac-
By TERESA MCMAHON, SOUTH WANGARATTA MEDICAL CENTRE
cinated helps protect the people around you, like your grandparents, your kids or that friend with asthma.
The vaccine is updated every year to match the latest flu strains, so it’s your best defense against what’s going around.
Getting vaccinated against the flu is such a simple thing to do but makes a huge difference.
It’s not just about keeping yourself healthy – it’s about looking out for your community too.
So, why not book your flu vaccination today?
Let’s all do our part to stay healthy and keep the flu at bay this season.
FOR THOSE WHO PREFER A HIGHER LEVEL OF CARE
Timeless Support has been approved to provide subsidised home care services through the Australian Government.
Depending on your circumstances you may be able to receive care and services, funded either fully or partly by the Government. We can support you on your journey.
Wangaratta, Benalla, Wodonga, Albury
FOR many pet owners in our community, our furry companions are not just animals, they’re family.
That’s why it’s important to recognise the signs of osteoarthritis, a painful joint disease that a ects cats and dogs.
While often associated with aging, osteoarthritis is more common than many realise, with studies estimating that at least one in five dogs and three in five cats will develop the condition in their lifetime.
It can a ect pets of any age, particularly those that are overweight.
Without proper management, it can significantly impact their quality of life.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints wears down over time, leading to increased friction, inflammation, and pain.
Unfortunately, our pets can’t verbally tell us when they’re hurting, and many instinctively hide
By WARBY STREET VETERINARY CLINIC
their discomfort, especially cats.
Physical signs such as stiness, di culty getting up, limping, reluctance to climb stairs or furniture, muscle loss or licking at joints may indicate osteoarthritis.
Less obvious symptoms are often behavioural, such as reluctance to walk or exercise, irritability when touched, increased lethargy, dull demeanor and restlessness.
Cold weather can exacerbate these signs, so please pay particular attention to your pets for these symptoms, especially coming into the chilly autumn and winter months of the North East.
While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, a multi-targeted approach can help reduce symptoms and slow its progression.
Management of osteoarthri-
tis typically includes anti-inflammatory medications, exercise modification, weight management, physiotherapy, environmental modification and joint supplements.
Prevention is always better than cure, and one of the biggest risk factors for osteoarthritis is obesity.
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most e ective ways to reduce your pet’s risk of developing this painful condition.
By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can make a real di erence in their furry companion’s quality of life.
Regular check-ups, early intervention, and a tailored management plan are key to keeping your pet happy, mobile, and pain-free.
If you notice any signs of arthritis, please reach out to your veterinarian and take the first step toward a more comfortable future for your pet.
Its
WE are now heading into the quiet season in the fishing world.
It’s quiet because many anglers are now focusing on deer hunting, football and getting ready for the ski season.
It’s not necessarily quite as far as fishing goes and many keen anglers like myself still have lots of fishing options across North East Victoria.
If you enjoy carp fishing, the Winton Wetlands is the place to head to at the moment.
There are plenty of big carp being caught over there, but you need to know exactly where to go.
You need to go to the old Lake Mokoan wall.
You can drive along the bottom of the wall to a car park, where there is a dry concrete spillway.
This is the Winton Wetlands overflow in wet years.
There is a big long channel of water lined up with that spillway (upstream) and that is where the big carp are currently being caught.
Forget the other large ponds, the best fishing is in the long, shallow dirty channel.
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Using sweet corn kernels, or worms you just can not go wrong at the moment.
My friend Sonny and I caught around 15 huge carp in there one evening last week.
In other news the local rivers are still fishing well for Murray cod.
They’re not fishing as well as they were when the water was a bit warmer, but this continued warm and dry weather is certainly extending the good Murray cod fishing this season.
As I have said in recent reports, the cod fishing has been quite hit and miss lately, but there are still plenty of Murray cod being caught in many of the North East Victorian rivers including the Ovens,
Broken.
April 30 - May 6, 2025
By GRACE FREDSBERG
ABORIGINAL healer and wellness facilitator Lee Couch is a staunch advocate for strengthening cultural connections across the North East region.
For 15 years, she’s been at the frontline of uplifting First Nations voices.
She co-ordinated the Alpine Shire’s first NAIDOC week event last year and has held a number of workshops informed by First Nations identity in the region.
“After a really hurtful referendum, it was important both to me, for my own personal identification, but also my daughter’s identity and other First Nations people living within this area,” Lee said.
“It is important that our culture is celebrated, to strengthen that identity.”
She underscored the importance of the relationships between First Nations people and said observances such as NAIDOC week and her workshops help everyone grasp a better understanding of Aboriginal people and their culture.
“No one really knows where to start in that reconciliation journey,” she said.
■ Continued Page 6
Energy are setting the stage for a warm and inviting winter season with a blend of innovative design and dependable performance.
As winter approaches, getting in early for fireplace season is not just a seasonal tip – it’s a call to upgrade to a heating solution that offers both aesthetic appeal and robust functionality.
need to have your everyday tools on hand.
Multi-tools, knives, torches and small chargers are just a few of the items included that you’ll be able to store in this handy organiser pouch.
Crafted with heavy-duty polyester, this pouch helps to keep everything safe and sorted.
Features include internal organisers suited to di erent tools and a large carry handle for easy transportation.
By DEAN ACKERLY, NORTH EAST FASTENERS
MOLLE webbing on the pouch’s exterior allows you to securely attach it to backpacks. It’s perfect everyday use, and ensures you’re prepared for everything; from minor repairs and emergency situations, to a humble phone charge or note-taking.
Crafted with pride in Canada, these fireplaces are a testament to quality and reliability.
The advanced stainless steel ba e system ensures consistent controlled burn, delivering long burn times of 12-15 hours.
This means homeowners can enjoy an overnight burn that keeps the cold at bay, making these fireplaces perfect for cosy evenings and ensuring the warmth lingers through the night.
In an era when e ciency and environmental consciousness are paramount, Pacific Energy fireplaces shine with their high e ciency and low emissions.
They o er smart heater options that integrate modern technology into traditional warmth, allowing users to adjust settings e ort-
lessly and optimise energy usage.
The commitment to excellence is further reflected in their comprehensive 10 year coverage, providing peace of mind and underscoring the brand’s confidence in their product’s durability.
This season, as families gather and communities come together, Pacific Energy fireplaces invite everyone to experience the perfect fusion of modern technology and classic comfort.
With features designed for longevity and performance, these fireplaces are more than just heating appliances – they are an investment in a warmer, more sustainable future.
Now is the time to embrace the season, welcome the chill, and turn your home into a haven of comfort with Pacific Energy fireplaces.
Who are we looking for?
North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to lead our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.
The ideal candidate will have:
• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.
• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones.
• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.
• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns.
• A motor vehicle and a current driver’s licence
What are we offering?
A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.
About North East Media
North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent family-owned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.
How to apply
If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:
Edward Higgins
CEO North East Media ehiggins@nemedia.com.au
and Gas-Fitting Subcontractors
Freedom FM is one of the largest and longest-serving providers of public housing maintenance services in Victoria, currently managing nine contracts across metropolitan and regional areas.
We are inviting Expressions of Interest from qualified Plumbing and Gas-Fitting Subcontractors to deliver maintenance services in Government Housing throughout the Benalla, Wangaratta and the surrounding areas.
This opportunity offers:
• Consistent workflow – no quoting or chasing payments
Long-term partnership and business growth
• Full training and onboarding support
Scope of works includes (but not limited to):
Blocked drains
• Sewer and stormwater repairs
• Tapware, guttering, and downpipe replacements
• Burst pipes
Toilet/cistern and appliance installations
We’re looking for subcontractors who are:
• Reliable and resilient
• Fully licensed and suitably qualified Flexible and professional
To express your interest, please email: admin@freedomfm.com.au
4SITE is a family owned and managed business.
We are looking for Garbage Collectors to join our team for the Mount Buller Area.
Seasonal Position “Winter 25” Licence: Medium Rigid preferred Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge and Experience
• A strong focus on safety;
• Ability to work in a harsh alpine environment;
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and carry out instructions with minimum supervision;
• Demonstrated ability to operate as an effective team member
To find out more information and to apply please scan the barcode, alternatively send your resume to jobs@4siteaustralia.com
www.northeastjobs.com.au
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions commencing in Term Three, 2025.
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions commencing in Term Three, 2025.
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions.
Legal Studies Teacher
Legal Studies Teacher
Plus an additional subject/learning area Full time or Part Time (Negotiable)/Ongoing
Legal Studies Teacher
Plus an additional subject/learning area
Teacher Assistant
Full time or Part Time (Negotiable)/Ongoing
Teacher Assistant
Middle and Senior School Full time/Ongoing
Middle and Senior School Full Time/Ongoing
Middle and Senior School Full time/Ongoing
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing dates.
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 dates.
STUDENT SERVICES AND ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Part-time (FTE 0.6, hrs neg).
Location: Wangaratta
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
An individual who is dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic about creating opportunities for regional and remote students.
Strong collaborative skills with ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders and work within a team.
• Good public speaker, presenter, and ability to coordinate activities and events.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organisation and time management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media knowledge.
Email degrees@cucovensmurray.edu.au or Call 0490 022 028 to request a copy of the Position Description.
Applications close Friday, May 9 at 5pm.
Advertisers please note!
Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our Employment column is reserved for advertisements which carry a specific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for 'Business Opportunities', 'Commission Only' training courses and employment services should be submitted under those headings.
Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trade Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.
■ Continued from page 1
“It’s about keeping that alive and not falling victim to that referendum; having the courage to move forward.”
A proud Gamilaroi woman from Northern NSW, Lee has kinship connections to Yorta Yorta through her maternal lines and western cultures through her paternal lines.
“My mum was born in Quirindi and raised in Cewlis, Gunnedah and Tamworth, with ancestors from Borah Crossing – Manilla, Boggabri, and Moree,” she said.
Lee also runs a number of workshops and retreats alongside creative facilitator Arkeria Rose Armstrong.
“We work across diverse settings; prisons, communities, schools, sporting clubs, government and corporate sectors,” she said.
“Whether it’s a yarning circle in community, a team building workshop or cultural retreat in a corporate space, each o ering is designed to strengthen relationships, cultural responsiveness, honour lived
She currently resides in her adopted homelands, the traditional lands of the Dhudhuroa, Waywurru and Taungurong Peoples (Alpine Shire).
Aged and/or Disability Care
Become a Support worker in community, home or residential care.
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experience, and support collective healing and sustainable wellbeing.”
Lee will be holding a Weaving for Wellness workshop at Bright Ec.lec.tic on Saturday, 10 May from 10am-1pm.
“Our workshop is a cultural creation that utilises hand-dyed ra a to o er a profound experience and share knowledge about the cultural practice of weaving,” Lee said.
“We will guide participants in connecting with the land to achieve a sense of connection and well-being through our unique range of healing products.
Study 1 day a week to get qualified
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Wangaratta – Tuesday classes
Course Fees if eligible for government funding
$360 no concession / $160 concession or Asylum Seeker
$110 Aboriginal and/ Torres Strait Islander
Community, Youth or Alcohol & Other Drugs support
Become a support worker for community based organisations, withdrawal services, residential rehabilitation services and outreach services
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Wangaratta – Thursday classes
Course Fees if eligible for government funding
$410 no concession / $170 concession or Asylum Seeker
$110 Aboriginal and/Torres Strait Islander
BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW to attend our course information session
Citizenship, Permanent Residency or Asylum Seeker criteria apply to be able to enrol with Skills First government funding Speak with our course advisor Lorelle to find out more!
Or email your contact details to info@pta.edu.au
Partners In Training Australia - RTO 21837
If you are eligible for Skills First Funding and access your Skills First entitlement this training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding
“Participants can expect to be welcomed into a ceremonial space, where they will be inspired to create a woven item to take home as a memento of their experience.”
To register, you can visit https://form.jotform. com/250777376254870.
Additionally, Lee is holding the shire’s second annual NAIDOC event on Sunday, 13 July, motivated by the theme of “The next generation: Strength, vision and legacy”.
To fi nd out more about Lee’s work, contact Lee at hello@leecouch.com or visit https://leecouch.com.
THE Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance 2025 Across the Arts Festival will hold its official launch on Friday, 2 May in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery from 5.30pm.
Hear artist Blake Griffiths speak about his exhibition, Trading Cloth, and view his stunning textile work, while celebrating the 25th anniversary of GANEAA’s multi artform festival.
Refreshments will be served and free tickets can be booked by visiting wangarattaartgallery.com. au/Programs/Launch-Across-theArts-Festival.
Blake Griffiths will also be delivering a full day workshop, Introduction to the Loom, on Saturday, 3 May as part of the Across the Arts program, with bookings at ganeaa.com.au/2025-ataprogram.
THE next annual Wangaratta Festival of Dance, celebrating young dancers from across the region and beyond, will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in May.
Now in its 27th year, hundreds of competitors will take part over five days of competition in over 12 genres of dance styles including classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary hip hop, musical theatre, demi character and improvisation. Entry to the auditorium to watch the performances is free for family, friends and the community, with the festival being held on 16, 17, 18, 24 and 25 May, and more information at wpacc.com.au.
THE 48th Historic Winton, Australia’s longest running, historic race meeting and one of the largest sporting events in rural Victoria, will be held at Winton Raceway on the weekend of 24 and 25 May.
Over 400 historic racing vehicles from the 1920s to the 1980s are expected to battle it out for line honours and there’s plenty more to see, including a competition paddock open to spectators where they can view the much-loved, historic vehicles of competitors.
There are also anniversary displays by clubs and individuals, an automotive trader market and food vendors on site, with more information and tickets at historicwinton.org.
THE Weekend Fit for a King food and wine festival will be held in the King Valley on the June long weekend.
Feast at a range of wineries, discover wine varieties you may never have heard and enjoy live music and DJs, with plenty of entertainment also on offer for kids.
Ticket price includes a tasting glass, wristband and entry to all eight participating wineries over the whole weekend, with Early Bird tickets on sale until the end of April at winesofthekingvalley.com.au.
EXPERIENCE the wonder of Roy Orbison in a brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice and his life at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 9 May at 7.30pm. Supported by his seven-piece band, Mark Shelley embodies the voice and spirit of Roy Orbison, sharing his story and his hit songs, including Only the Lonely, Sweet Dream Baby, Anything You Want, Crying, Pretty Woman and many more.
Limited tickets are available now at wpacc.com.au.
FOLLOWING a sold out UK and Ireland tour, Australian comedian and singer/songwriter Kevin Bloody Wilson will visit the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Tuesday, 13 May as part of his new Aussie Icon Tour.
Wilson will be performing his funniest songs, hilarious stories and shooting down political correctness for audiences around Australia, supported by his daughter and warm up act, Jenny Talia from Australia. The show starts at 7pm and tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.
A TRIO of eclectic entertainers will come together for the 2025 Across the Arts concert, celebrating The Last Blast of the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) festival at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Saturday, 3 May from 6.30pm.
All are welcome the special event featuring performances by multi award-winning Australian trumpeter Eugene Ball, Australian virtuoso guitarist Nick Charles, and the inimitable Constantina Bush, the alter ego of Katherine artist, Kamahi Djordon King.
Eugene Ball has received widespread national and international recognition throughout a professional career that has featured performances with some of the biggest names in music.
Along with high pro le freelance performances, Eugene has also toured nationally and internationally with some of Australia’s most celebrated groups, including The Hoodangers, the Andrea Keller Quartet, the Allan Browne Quintet, the Australian Art Orchestra, and
the Bennett’s Lane Big Band.
He is also a proli c and awardwinning composer, music director and arranger, whose compositions and arrangements have been performed by internationally renowned ensembles, including the Melbourne and Vancouver Symphony Orchestras.
With Nick Charles’ dazzling melodic ngerpicking on six and 12 string guitars, stinging bottleneck slide and a lifetime’s stories and songs gathered or written on the world’s musical highways, it’s no surprise he’s labelled internationally as “Australia’s virtuoso of acoustic roots and blues”.
During his extensive and acclaimed career, Nick has released nearly 20 albums on major Australian and US roots music labels and he averages 150 shows a year in Australia, New Zealand and the USA, his music encompassing a delightful and eclectic mix of acoustic roots including blues, folk and early ragtime jazz.
Along the way, there are stylish nods to the Great American Songbook and the nest contemporary players and composers
from Chet Atkins, to Lennon and McCartney, to Leo Kottke.
Kamahi Djordon King, a Gurindji man, born in Katherine NT, is a painter and visual artist, an actor, a singer, cabaret artist and crooner, and a writer and performer.
Constantina Bush, a creation of Kamahi Djordon King based on some of the women from his community, is a six-foot-something Glamazon who burst onto the scene with OUTBLACK in Melbourne in 2008 and since then has been performing in festivals, cabaret and anywhere she can.
Constantina Bush can be seen across Australia hosting events and she is a captivating stage presence known for her unique and unforgettable live performances.
The three artists will present a spectacular night of entertainment, in a concert capping o the nal iteration of the arts festival in its current format a er 25 years.
Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6.30pm start and tickets are $35, available at thevinehotel.net.au/ event-details/ganeaa-across-thearts-concert.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A seemingly stalled romantic situation could benefit from your reassurance that you want this relationship to work. And if you do, use a tad more of your irresistible Arian charm!
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Going to new places and meeting new people appeals to both the Taurean’s romantic and practical side. After all, you never can tell where these new contacts will take you, right?
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A careerchanging opportunity that didn’t work out when you first considered it could come up again. But this time, remember that you have more to offer and act accordingly.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) There could be some tensions in relationships -- domestic or workaday. But a calm approach that doesn’t raise anger levels and a frank discussion will soon resolve the problem.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s a good idea to begin preparing for a career change that you’ve been thinking about for a while. Start to sharpen your skills and expand your background to be ready when it calls.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Bless the VIRGO skepticism that has kept you from falling into traps that others seem to rush into. But you might want to give a new possibility the benefit of the doubt, at least on a trial basis.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)
Traveling- and career-related energy is strong in your aspect. Perhaps your job will take you to someplace exotic, or you might be setting up meetings with potential clients or employers. Whatever it is, good luck!
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Someone might use deception to try to push you into making a decision that you’re not fully comfortable with. But your keen SCORPIO senses should keep you alert to any such attempt.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Romance dominates this week when Cupid shafts the Archer for a change. Positive things are also happening in the workplace. Expect important news to arrive by the week’s end.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Anyone trying to bully the Sea Goat -- whether it involves a personal or professional matter -- will learn a painful lesson. Others will also benefit from the Goat’s strong example.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Congratulations! With things going the way they are, you should be able to spare some time and take a break from your hectic schedule for some well-earned fun and games.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your sharp Piscean intuition should be able to uncover the true agendas of those who might be trying to catch the Fish in one of their schemes.
ACROSS
1 Which trousers are worn in hot weather (6)
8 What is a small box for holding tea, coffee, etc (8)
9 To grasp suddenly, is to do what (6)
10 Which train runs between Melbourne and Adelaide (8)
11 What do we call the climatic event that rapidly warms the Pacific Ocean surface (2,4)
12 Name the third Gospel in the New Testament (4)
13 What are long overland journeys (5)
16 What do staircases consist of (5)
19 To be chilly, is to be what (4)
21 What is exertion of power (6)
22 What do we call those who knead the body (8)
23 What are standards of perfection (6)
24 Name a pale, bluishpurple colour (8)
25 To slip by, is to do what (6) DOWN
2 Name an Australian pioneer aviator, Bert ... (7)
3 To reconsider, is to do what (7)
4 What is a place where instruction is given (6)
6 Name a junior member of an ambassador’s staff (7)
7 Which structures span rivers (7)
13 Which small fingercap is used in sewing (7)
14 To be hard to express, is to be what (7)
18 What are temporary releases of prisoners (7)
20 To long for, or crave, is to do what (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 EXCOGITATE
(a) To deprive of church privileges (b) To irritate greatly (c) To discover by thinking
2 IATRIC
5 What are daily records of one’s experiences (7)
15 Which covered frames are used as partitions (7)
Letters have a number value
17 Name a lustrous silk fabric (7)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
(a) Violet-coloured (b) Satirical in verse (c) Relating to medicine
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:
Animal husbandry: purge (5)
Belonging to us (3)
Contraction: he has (3)
Flat-headed nail (5)
Fruit (5)
Green-eyed (7)
Inflate (7)
Initial phone response (5)
Pacific (abb) (3)
Stolen (coll) (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
VOLUNTEERS from the Moyhu Lions Club cooked up a storm during the club’s Easter Market as it caters to a growing number of visitors who have added the community event to their holiday calendar.
Members and volunteers cooked a staggering 160 egg and bacon rolls on Easter Saturday, using more than 330 eggs, which they believe is a new record for the market.
Moyhu Lions Club secretary Nicole Lindsay said they don’t remember it ever being as busy, with visitors also staying longer at the event.
“There were people everywhere and they were hanging around, listening to the music (by local group the Rustic Ramblers) and enjoying the variety of stalls,” she said.
“We’ve got a lot of art and cra and some quirky, di erent things now at the market which is great, and everyone seems to be enjoying it.”
Nicole said the monthly market is continuing to raise money for the local Lions, which as well as being used to support people in need in the community, is also going into savings to help fund the purchase of a new catering facility, and to repair the roof of the old church located in the park.
The small, historic building which dates back to the 1800s was once a Methodist church and later a Sunday school, but is now used by the Lions as their meeting place.
“We’re going to need to do some work on it eventually, so we are gradually putting some money away,” said Nicole.
For the last few years, the Moy-
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club
members are tricycling at Apex Park from 1.30pm today, April 30 (BYO chair).
The club will also host indoor carpet bowls 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 or the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
There will be breakfast at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Friday from 8am.
WANGARATTA Garden Club’s general meeting will be held on Thursday, 1 May from 1pm at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Hall in Phillipson Street.
There will be exhibits on display, a small stall and afternoon tea. The special effort for this month is a vase or container of coloured foliage. Everyone is welcome.
WANGARATTA Newcomers will hold their next gathering on Thursday, May 1 from 2pm to 3.30pm at Intermezzo Café.
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 West Artisans Market will be held at St Michael’s Anglican Church in O’Leary Street
hu Lions have been trying to grow attendance to their monthly markets and Nicole said it is beginning build, with some new stallholders joining the regular lineup.
She said they are getting growing interest through their own Facebook page and by reaching out to other community pages, which is helping them build overall attendance.
Meanwhile the Moyhu Lions are continuing to provide both cash and in-kind donations to other charity groups and organisations, including the Lions Eye Health
on Saturday, May 3 from 9am to 1pm.
The market will feature handcrafted items, fresh produce, plants, home-baked cakes, morning tea options and coffee van, along with a barbecue and ‘curry corner’ (gluten-free and vegetarian options). There will be activities for children during the market. For more information, visit the wangwestanglicans Facebook page or email artisanmarket@ wangarattawestanglican.org.au
THE Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group meets on the first Monday afternoon of the month at the Town and Country Tavern meeting room at 1.30pm. Next meeting is Monday, 5 May at 1.30pm. Everyone welcome.
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.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis competition is held at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Monday and Thursday from 8am. New players welcome, morning tea provided (BYO cup). Contact
Program, Variety Bash and Cancer Research Foundation.
Support has also gone to the local CFA, and the club continues to provide fuel and food vouchers for local people in need.
Nicole said the atmosphere at the Easter market was amazing, with people enjoying the opportunity to catch up with family and friends and to socialise, which is also happening at their regular events.
“We’re getting a lot of locals, a lot of travellers and everyone is enjoying the day,” she said.
“The feedback has been incredibly positive.”
At the Easter Market, it was Laura Hollyoak from King Valley face painting who won the $100 Nikos butcher voucher in the ra e, and Moyhu’s Bryce Jones won the Easter Egg guessing competition, counting 98 easter eggs - just one o the 97 eggs actually in the jar.
The next Moyhu Market will be held on Saturday, 17 May and it will be the nal event before the annual winter break, with the market returning again on Saturday, 20 September.
Maureen O’Keefe 0409 215 881.
CONNECTING Community Café runs during school terms on Thursdays from 10am to 11am at Intermezzo Café.
Learn what’s happening in the community, meet others and have a place to drop in, have a cuppa and chat. For more information, contact Open Door Neighbourhood House on 5721 9175.
CENTRE Quilters Circle meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street.
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.
PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. Enquiries to 0407 311 899.
THE North Eastern branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria meets every fourth Tuesday at the Masonic Lodge in Appin St, Wangaratta. Beginners and experienced
THE Whitefield Cemetery Trust has overseen the successful removal of two trees at the cemetery this week which had been classified as dangerous. The trust said contractors did a good job and cleaned up well, with the cost of the removal to be reimbursed by the State Government, while a Department of Justice crew has also been providing assistance with mowing and maintenance of the grounds.
A few healthy, mature trees remain in place at the cemetery, with trust volunteers planning to plant more trees over winter and spring.
THE Rural City of Wangaratta is expected to begin works to extend a walking and cycling trail from Whitty Lane to Gentle Annie Lane along Wangaratta-Whitfield Road, Whitfield on Monday, 5 May.
The trail extension is the final section of a shared path developed as part of the township enhancement and revitalisation initiatives under the Prosecco Road Project, made possible through funding from the State Government’s Tourism Infrastructure Program.
The trail will run between Whitty Lane and Newton Lane before crossing the main road to connect with Gentle Annie Lane, and are expected to be completed by the end of June.
THE Moyhu Lions Club will hold its next community market on Saturday, 17 May from 8am to 12pm at the Moyhu Lions Park.
There will be about 30 stalls showcasing local produce, plants, handcrafted items, clothing and giftware along with delicious food and more.
The Moyhu CFA will be holding this month’s raffle with money raised going towards their fundraising efforts towards a second tanker.
embroiderers welcome from 9.30am. Contact Jen on 0407 560562.
SATURDAY Quilters meets on the first Saturday of each month from 9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street.
Beginner and experienced members welcome. Contact Frances on 0417 158 220.
WANGARATTA Table Tennis Social Group is held every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 noon, at the Showgrounds table tennis pavilion. All ages and abilities are welcome, with coaching for new players. Free tea and coffee. Entry fee $2. For more information phone Maxine on 0403 209 857.
FREE weekly weight loss park classes are held during school terms on Mondays at 9.30am on Barr Reserve Oval 1 (Bill O’Callaghan Oval).
Those taking part are advised to allow 90 minutes for the social and fun class, with a 10 minute chat before and after the 50 minute session. For details or to join, text or call Dani on 0467 494 024.
WANGARATTA Toastmasters meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street.
For more information, contact Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881.
OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta.
New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.
LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. Phone 0418 574 404 for more information about this non-contact game of netball.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral. All welcome. For details, call Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
WANG Ukes meets on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Masonic Lodge in Appin Street.
All abilities welcome, phone 0407 311 899 for more information.
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.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Kitchens available before Christmas. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
MARK ’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs - yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.
JASON pure wool blanket queen size, blue satin trim and generous sizing, medium weight, $30. Ph 5721 5592. FOR SALE $50 OR UNDER
BOX trailer, well built, $350. Ph 0439 766 211
CONVERTIBLE for sale, 1997 AMG
Mercedes SLK 230 Kompressor, solid top folding roof, VIN: WDB1704472F034586, 156,000km, I am selling due to vehicle rationalizing, it is a lovely car in very good condition, a great drive and with Club registration is economical to own, more photos are available upon request, RWC will be supplied, $12,500. Contact Ken on 0418 300 220.
MITSUBISHI Tray Top Ute, 2WD 410,00km, motor rebuilt, 5 month rego (CU57VL), $2800. Ph 0439 766 211.
10FT 6 Boat, on a new trailer, 9hp motor $900, Ph 0439 766 211.
CHECK OUT OUR NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer
Who are we looking for?
North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to lead our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.
The ideal candidate will have:
• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.
• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones.
• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.
• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns.
• A motor vehicle and a current driver’s licence
What are we offering?
A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.
About North East Media
North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent family-owned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.
How to apply
If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:
Edward
Higgins CEO
North East Media ehiggins@nemedia.com.au
ASQUITH, Joyce.
24/1/1935 – 27/4/2025
Passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s Hostel, Wangaratta. Aged 90 years.
Dearly loved wife of Reg (dec). Devoted sister to both Dawn (dec) and Kathleen. Sister-in-law to Kevin (dec), Charlie (dec) and Noel (dec).
Aunty Joyce loved by her nieces, nephews, and their families.
A special friend to so many.
A gentle nature, a heart of gold, One of the best this world could hold.
PORTER, Mervyn Raymond. 1/11/1942 – 28/4/2025
Loving husband of Heather. Loving father and father-in-law of Glen, Mark and Cheree. Proud Pa of Riley, Holly and Amelia. Forever in our hearts.
REICH, Mandy Magdalene.
Born 1934 in Cleve South Australia. Passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025 at St Catherine’s Hostel, surrounded by family.
Dearly loved wife of Manfred. Loving mother of Simon, Henry and Wendy. Adored grandmother of 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
A er 7 ½ years of pain and su ering she is now and forever with her Lord and God.
Many thanks to the carers and catering sta at St Catherine’s.
The funeral service to honour the memory of Mrs Joyce Asquith will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 2pm.
Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
Joyce’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
The graveside service to celebrate the life of Mr Mervyn Raymond will be held at White eld Cemetery, 8 Cemetery Lane, King Valley on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 2pm. Mervyn’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
REICH
The funeral service for Mrs Mandy Reich will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 2pm. Light refreshments will be served prior to leaving for the Eldorado General Cemetery, arriving at approximately 4.30pm. Mandy’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Mason Park Funerals
ROUND one of the Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership commenced this past Sunday, 27 April, with the Wangaratta Knights taking on Corowa Cougars for the ANZAC round.
ZAC ceremony was hosted by Corowa RSL sub-branch, where captains from each team laid a wreath at the base of the agpole.
ladies’ league tag side open to people aged 16 and up, and the men’s tackle side for people aged 17 and above.
Tensions were high for the Knights ladies coming up against the Cougars, an echo of the 2024 grand nal.
The Knights proved throughout the game there was no need for nerves, with the nal score being 22-0 in favour of Wangaratta.
Try-scorers for the game were Amy Butler, Rain Dodd, Tiana Stuart, while successful conversions were kicked by Rain Dodd and Tiana Stuart.
At intermission, an AN-
For the last game of the day, the Wangaratta and Corowa men went head-tohead to establish seasonstarting ladder positions.
Though they fought hard, injury played a large part in the nal score, the Knights losing to the Cougars 12-28.
Try-scorers for the match were Jacob Roberts and Ratul Sauniyaka, and conversions were kicked by Matthew Flewin.
The Wangaratta Knights are still accepting new players within the club, with the
Training nights are held at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve from 6.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Round two will be held on Sunday, 4 May at the Eldorado Centennial Park Reserve, with the Knights versing Wolfpack for the Hayden McIntosh Memorial Shield.
The Wangaratta Knights would also like to put forward their condolences for the friends and family of life member Wayne ‘Yanny’ Yan, who was a loyal fan and a steadfast masters player within the club.
Tigers 1.2 3.3 4.6 6.9 (45) Imperials 2.6 5.10 9.13 11.14 (80)
GOALS: TIGERS: M. Benton 2, M. Correll 1, R. Webb 1, N. Williams 1, J. Knight 1. IMPERIALS: M. Marek 4, K. McPhan 2, H. Allen 2, H. Bandt 1, B. Benton 1, C. Young 1. BEST: Tigers: M. Correll, W. Farrington, S. Morey, N. O’Keefe, L. Alexander. IMPERIALS: K. McPhan, R. Pfahlert, C. Flynn, A. Schultz, H. Bandt, P. Stamp.
Junior Magpies
2.3 3.3 3.5 3.7 (25) College 0.1 2.5 2.10 4.13 (37)
GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: S. McIntosh 2, J. Holmes 1. COLLEGE: H. Lyster 2, S. Reid 1, N. Allan 1. BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Bounpraseuth, C. Briggs, M. James, A. Scholes, A. Hardman, H. Tanner. COLLEGE: L. Pensak, H. Bowman, J. McGennisken, N. Allan, H. Allan, T. Fieldew. Mansfield 3.6 5.12 7.17 11.18 (84)
Benalla 1.1 1.2 2.3 4.3 (27)
GOALS: MANSFIELD: S. Kain 4, G. Robinson 2, C. Purday 1, N. Hoskin 1, H. Sheeran 1, K. Middleton 1. BENALLA: L. Ham 1, M. Willett 1, J. Byers 1, T. Reeve 1. BEST: MANSFIELD: C. Purday, Z. Hotton, S. Kain, W. Benton, G. Robinson, M. Payne. BENALLA: H. Blyss, B. Blackford, N. Hogan, L. Ham, R. McCarthy, H. Skelton.
Myrtleford 0.1 2.1 3.1 5.2 (32)
Bright 5.4 8.7 12.12 16.15 (111)
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: S. Muraca 1, M. McMahon 1, H. Durling 1, B. Robb 1, Z. Menz 1. BRIGHT: N. White 3, T. Brierty 3, B. Brady 2, O. Dalbosco 2, J. Thomson 2, A. Toy 1, E. Lodge 1, H. Johnston 1, G. Banks 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: N. Robb, L. McKeone, B. McMasters, H. Durling, A. Morgan, J. Bruneau. BRIGHT: A. Murrells, J. Thomson, B. Brady, F. Stephens, N. White.
Centrals vs Kangaroos No scores available at time of print
Junior Magpies
College
GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: S. Patterson 2, L. Bott 1, L. Sloan 1. COLLEGE: L. OBrien 7, L. Pensak 6, C. Bowman 3, Z. Tamme 2, J. Tonkin 2, C. O’Brien 2, T. Hill 1, B. Hallinan 1, A. McKeown 1, E. Maher 1. BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: S. Briggs, J. Pell, L. Sloan, S. Patterson, W. Maiden, J. Vincent. COLLEGE: C. Bowman, C. O’Brien, J. Borschmann, L. Pensak, J. Guley, Z. Tamme. Centrals
Kangaroos
GOALS: KANGAROOS: B. Jackson 8, M. Coleman 7, J. Pople 4, C. Borschmann 3, E. Byrne 2, M. Sacco 2, L. Solimo 2, H. Edwards 1, N. Gigliotti 1, C. Ackerly 1, L. Solimo 1. BEST: CENTRALS: A. Fraser, H. Muraca, K. Steele, C. Blair, D. Hogarth, B. Stewart. KANGAROOS: B. Jackson, A. Mccoy, E. Byrne, C. Willoughby, C. Borschmann, L. Solimo. Tigers
(73) Imperials
GOALS: TIGERS: S. Gibb 4, B. Kantor 2, A. Whitehead 2, L. Benton 1, P. Edwards 1, H. Sharp 1. IMPERIALS: H. O’Brien 1, G. Marek 1. BEST: TIGERS: A. Whitehead, L. Farrington, K. Ackroyd, S. Elkington, P. Edwards, S. Gibb. IMPERIALS: T. Benton, T. Sealey, S. Savage, J. Ambrose, B. Thorpe, W. Startin.
Myrtleford
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: A. Knobel 7, X. Millar 6, C. Schell 2, N. Durling 2, C. Herbert 2, W. Koers 1, M. McMasters 1, N. Harris 1, K. Prott 1, S. Lupo 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: A. Knobel, S. Lupo, X. Millar, N. Durling, W. Koers, N. Harris.
Benalla Black
(24) Benalla Red
GOALS: BENALLA BLACK: R. white 1, O. Wardill 1, L. Webster 1. Benalla U14s Red: H. Bast 6, T. Mount 4, C. Bowen 3, J. Binion 2, J. Pollard 1. BEST: BENALLA BLACK: J. Montgomery, J. Bamford, B. Wells, H. Ross, J. Christie, C. Bell. BENALLA RED: C. Bowen, T. Mount, C. Pollard, J. Hart, H. Bast, J. Binion.
2,
Millis 1, F. Mckenzie 1, F. Goodey 1, A. Canning 1,
Mansfield Blue
Mansfield Yellow
GOALS: MANSFIELD BLUE: O. Pigdon
3, C.
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographers Kurt Hickling and Marc Bongers went along to the O&M and O&K netball on Friday and Saturday to capture some of the action. Photographs can be purchased form the Chronicle office on Rowan Street.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
LOCAL school teacher, Aron
Lombardi, has made a comeback a er 20 years to competitive swimming, winning three medals and two national titles in the 2025 Masters Swimming Australia National Championships at MSAC in Melbourne over the school holidays.
Lombardi won gold in both the 200m butter y and 400m individual medley in the 3539 age group, earning national champion titles in those events.
He also claimed a silver medal in the 200m backstroke.
Lombardi said he was not
expecting this outcome.
“Surprise is de nitely the number one feeling,” he said.
“I haven’t swum a 200m butter y race in 21 years and didn’t do any pool events in the lead up.
“It was my rst event of the competition; I was just hoping to nish the race and even little things like the starting blocks have changed a lot since I last competed.
“I was really surprised to win and it really built my condence for the other races.”
Thanks to his results, Lombardi has quali ed to represent Australia at the World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore later this year.
Lombardi said he is unsure if he will be able to compete in Singapore.
“I would like to compete but I am also one of the coaches and Team Manager of the Team Vic Under 15 Boys football team and we play the National Championships in Queensland the entire week leading up to the World Championships so will be very tough to work out travel arrangements and get time to train properly in the weeks leading up,” he said.
“I am aiming to swim and compete at the Australian Masters Games being held in October in Canberra which
should be another tough competition and really big event.”
When Lombardi hopped back in the pool at the end January, competing in events was not a consideration.
Lombardi said he realised how much he enjoyed it and entered an open water swim at Lake Burley Gri n Canberra in February, where he won the 500m event.
“Luckily, I work with Michelle Hill at Galen who has had great success in the Masters Tennis events which gave me the idea to look into Masters Swimming,” he said.
“I joined the Wangaratta Masters Swimming Club and
decided to give it a shot.”
Lombardi said his wife and coaches at the swimming club have been amazing, supporting him to compete.
“I have a little one at home so having him come and watch the events has been amazing,” he said.
“He is still a bit young as a three year old to fully understand exactly what the races are about but he has enjoyed collecting the medals and cheering on Dad before I start the races but my wife Danielle has been the real star making sure I have been able to train and keeping him entertained for the three days of competition.”
THE weekend saw the rst round of the North Eastern Baseball Association contested, and Wangaratta teams were in the thick of the action.
A Grade Wangaratta Rangers Orange’s effort to come back from ve runs down in the fourth inning came up just short, as they fell 8-6 to Wang Rangers Black on Sunday at Targoora Park.
Rangers Black jumped out to the lead in the top of the rst inning a er Aaron Parker singled, scoring one run, Damien French drew a walk, scoring one run, and Heath French doubled, scoring two runs.
Rangers Black added one run in the third a er French singled down the le eld line on the sixth pitch of the at-bat.
Jason Jonker led things o on the bump for Rangers Orangethe starter allowed ve hits and seven runs (four earned) over one and one-third innings, striking out three and walking ve.
Nathan Pool and Owen Godenzi were a force together in the line-up, as they each collected two hits for Rangers Orange while hitting backto-back.
Pool provided pop in the middle of the line-up, and led Rangers Orange with two runs batted in.
Damien French and Tanner Godenzi each collected two hits for Rangers Black.
Mikayla Jonker led Rangers Black with two walks.
Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate, tallying six walks for the game - French, Parker, and Godenzi each stole multiple bases for Rangers Black.
Rangers Orange play at home on Sunday against Porepunkah Panthers in their next game.
B Grade
Angus King drove in four runs on one hit to lead Rangers Orange past Rangers Black 18-6 on Sunday.
King singled in the rst inning, scoring two runs, and walked in the second inning, scoring one.
Rangers Black got on the board in the rst inning a er Paul Maiden grounded out, scoring one run - Orange then ipped the game on its head in the bottom of the rst, scoring seven runs on two hits to take the lead 7-1.
Rangers Orange scored seven runs on two hits in the bottom of the second inning.
A single by Tony Smith, an error, and a ground out helped Orange extend their early lead in the third.
Osborne opened the game for Orange the hurler allowed six hits and six runs ( ve earned) over ve innings, striking out nine and walking six.
Overall, the team had patience at the plate, amassing eight walks for the game.
Number seven hitter, Daniel Wells, showed the depth of Wang Rangers Black line-up, by leading them with two hits in two at bats.
Josh Wells and Dan Wells each
men
drove in two runs for Wang Black, and Oscar Maiden led Black with three walks.
Wang Rangers Orange play at home on Sunday against Porepunkah Panthers in their next game.
C Grade
The Rangers scored six runs in the rst inning, which helped them defeat Albury Bears 11-2 on Sunday.
A dropped third strike scored one run, Katie Maiden doubled, scoring two runs, Leah Dinsdale singled, scoring one run, Julian Tasca drew a walk, scoring one run, and Candice Jones drew a walk, scoring one run.
Wang Rangers added to their early lead in the bottom of the second inning a er Tasca singled to le eld, Jones walked, and then scored on a wild pitch, each scoring one run.
Oscar Maiden earned the win for
Wang Rangers - the starting pitcher allowed one hit and two runs (one earned) over two innings, striking out three and walking two.
Wang Rangers piled up 11 hits in the game, and stole ve bases.
Wang Rangers welcome Porepunkah Panthers on Sunday for their next game.
Under 15
Even though Wang Rangers Black collected three hits to Rangers Orange one, they still fell 11-4 on Sunday.
Kazu Anderson-Ohata, Hayden Kiker, and Darcy Sanders each collected one hit for Wang Rangers Black.
Rangers Black got on the board in the rst inning a er an error scored one run - Rangers Orange then ipped the game on its head in the
bottom of the rst, scoring ve runs
bottom of the rst, scoring ve runs on zero hits to take the lead, 5-1. Orange scored ve runs on zero hits in the bottom of the second inning.
Bentley Mitchell was struck by a pitch, driving in a run, Lillie Brockwell drew a walk, scoring one run, and three runs were scored on another play. Orange added one run in the third on a passed ball, making the score 11-4.
Anderson-Ohata led Wang Rangers Black with two runs batted in.
Rangers Black had a strong eye at the plate, piling up seven walks for the game, Hudson Membrey and Isaac Maiden led the team with two free passes each, and Membrey, Kiker, and Sanders each stole multiple bases for Rangers Black.
■ From back page “Execution was a bit lacking, and the ruthlessness was lacking,” Leschen said.
“I think there were a few times where the boys thought the ball was already in the net before it was in the net.
“But 6-1, you’d take that any day of the week.”
Leschen said the mid eld structured up well, allowing players like Archer Hill to run riot up top.
“Across the ground, structure-wise it was very good, we controlled 90 minutes of football – I don’t think, apart from one back
pass, they got out of their half,” he said.
“Archer Hill was the standout, I think he chipped in with two goals and two assists, put opportunities galore on people’s plates which weren’t taken.
“I thought the midfield three of Lorenzo [Cecchini], Justin [Cirillo] and especially Rhett [Martin] on senior club debut, looked the most solid it has this year, so that was good to see.”
The Devils sit eighth on the ladder, and will take on 10th-ranked Wodonga Heart this weekend.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A BIG day under the ring for Lavington sharpshooter Erin Haberecht proved more than a handful for Wangaratta Rovers A grade last weekend, going down 41-72.
The league leader in goals this season, Harberecht would contribute 63 to the Panthers total at WJ Findlay Oval as the Rovers saw the lead grow in all four quarters.
Rovers coach Gracie Reid said the girls did all they could to limit the dangerous shooter, but without traditional goal keeper Lara Judd (competing at the Ballarat marathon), the height, strength and experience of Harberech and the Panthers midcourt proved a challenge.
“Erin was unstoppable on the day,” she said.
“Holly [McCarthy] and Briony [Simpson] successfully pushed Lavi’s WA and C to
feed o the circle edge, but they still managed to get the ball into Erin’s hands.
“We struggled to compete for rebounds when she did miss.
“Lavi may be a new team, but they’re lled with smart, experienced players across the court.
“With Sarah [Meredith] leading in defence, Ange [DeMamiel] controlling through the centre, and Maddi Loyd driving their attack end, they’re a well-rounded and competitive side.”
In her 250th senior game, the Rovers looked for a spark from Bree Schutt who made an appearance in the A grade in front of a supportive home crowd, as the girls rallied behind her at wing attack.
Despite some defensive troubles, the Rovers found some promise in attack with McCarthy’s passing through the midcourt a highlight
and Kara O’Donohue was extremely reliable under the goals, converting 28 of her 31 shots.
Reid said her side showed glimpses they had the potential to take it up to strong teams like the Panthers and would look to build on their
“What’s needed now is putting that together across all four quarters,” she said.
“Holly has been a powerhouse down the court, with strong hands-over pressure and quality feeds into the ring - an asset we’ll continue to build on and make the most of capitalising on quality feeds into the ring.”
The Rovers will turn their attention to another tough task in the 2-1 Wodonga Raiders away from home this weekend before a bye.
Reid said despite the challenging task ahead, she liked her teams chances having done well against the Raiders
IN one of the games of the season, Bright’s A grade netball side have taken a huge earlyseason scalp to upset reigning premier Bonnie Doon by one goal.
The match between two quality teams was a high-scoring contest which ended in a nailbiting 61-60 win.
A second-straight game on their home court for Bright, who were keen to amends a er a close loss to Tarrawingee a week earlier, started in a more positive manner as they edged ahead after a tense opening term by two goals.
That’s just about as far as the lead pushed out to, with Bonnie Doon using their premiership experience to make moves and hit the lead on multiple occasions.
Amazingly, Bright led at every break by only a goal or two on each occasion, and most importantly for their sake, a er 60
minutes of gruelling netball, by the barest of margins.
In a battle of the goal shooters, league leader Amy Starzer of Bonnie Doon was incredibly accurate with 52 goals at 96 per cent, while Bright’s Emily Nightingale netted 46 goals for the second week in a row.
Bright coach Ash Grimes was ecstatic with her side’s e ort and the outcome of the match.
“I’m absolutely over the moon about the win against Bonnie Doon – it was such an incredible game to be a part of,” Grimes said.
“What stood out most for me was how well the girls executed everything we’d worked on at training.
“Their ability to stay composed and in control throughout such a high-intensity match was really impressive.
“Every single one of the nine players stepped up and played their role – it was a full four-quar-
ter, hard-fought e ort.”
In other matches around the league, Milawa had their own exciting encounter a er a dramatic 45-45 draw against Whorouly.
The Demons led at the rst three breaks, but a tremendous e ort from the Lions in the second half saw them come from the clouds to pinch their share of points.
Whorouly coach Kelly Cousins said the determination from her side was heartening to see.
“Through patience and discipline, we started to break through in the second half,” she said.
“The nal quarter saw a shi in momentum, thanks to strong full-court defensive pressure, which opened up opportunities for both Eb [Allen] and Laura [Keighran] to snag a few key intercepts.
down to everyone locking into their roles and li ing their intensity.
“We’ve been nishing games strongly, which is a real positive, but there’s still work to do in making sure we don’t give away big leads that are impossible to reel in.”
Elsewhere, King Valley were four goals too good for Moyhu over at Hopperland.
The Roos were in front early, but Moyhu pared them back to a one-goal margin by the half.
King Valley’s shooters were on re, with Jada Ryan’s 23 goals at 74.19 per cent accuracy proving to be the di erence in the end.
The result sees King Valley claim their rst win of the season, with only Greta and North Wangaratta yet to pick up points.
in the past and will focus on their turnover game throughout the week.
“Communication and connection across the court will be key, and our main goal remains delivering a consistent four-quarter performance,” she said.
Across the road on ANZAC Day, the Magpies fell to a third successive loss in a back-andforth thriller against Myrtleford, going down 40-44.
Despite leading at half time and for most of the third quarter, the Saints turned the tide to string together consecutive goals behind their tenacious defence, which would see them through to the end despite a gallant Magpies last quarter.
Milly O’Kane (17 goals) and Amanda Umanski (22 goals) were Wangaratta’s best under the ring while Leah Jenvey made her mark through the midcourt.
“That nal-quarter comeback was a true team e ort - it came
Rounding out round ve, Goorambat thumped Benalla 41-29, and Tarrawingee hammered North Wangaratta 50-16.
Hit the winning run or just had a great day. Get a permanent reminder with great sports shots from The Chronicle
Wangaratta A grade netballer
Leah Jenvey soars through the air in the Magpies’ narrow loss to Myrtleford on ANZAC Day.
■ O&M netball review on page 19, more photos on page 17.
Wangaratta City men claim first outright win of the season, hammer Wanderers 6-1
THE senior Devils banked the full allotment of points for the rst time this season on Sunday, and they did it in electric fashion. Taking on a oundering Twin City Wanderers, Wangaratta City dominated for the full 90 minutes, taking the three points 6-1.
Almost from the rst whistle, the Devils were in the driver’s seat, setting up well through the middle
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
of the ground to deny Wanderers any clear ball movement.
Once they gained possession, the Devils surged forward and hammered Twin City’s defence.
Wangaratta sent four goals into the
back of the net, but created chance a er chance without much luck.
Even though they conceded a goal in the second half, a slight technical error in defence which led to an own goal, senior coach
Vitaly Leschen was delighted with the end result.
“It was a good win, an expected win but still good for the boys to get it under the belt,” he said.
“A 6-1 scoreline didn’t do us justice, to be honest, we missed a bajillion chances and we controlled the game right through.
“The big focus on the weekend was we were trying to play a 15-minute game – we knew their quality so I was trying to get across to the boys that we go in with the mentality to kill it in the rst 15.
“While we didn’t do that, we
well and truly should’ve, we had countless opportunities.
“The good thing was a er the initial start of missing a few chances, we were relentless, we just kept on peppering their goal.”
Work will be done on executing in front of goal, which will go a long way to seeing the Devils climb the ladder.
■ Continued page 18