Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre staff members (from left) Jaimie Field, Gracie Reid and Paul Barker test the water in the outdoor pool as they prepare to host this Sunday's Big Freeze event. Kicking off at 1pm, the afternoon will offer a range of icy activities aimed at raising funds and awareness for the FightMND campaign spearheaded by Neale Daniher. Story page 3
WANGARATTA police are calling on community members to report elder abuse, with new data revealing physical assault is the most common form of elder abuse.
The latest Crime Statistics Agency data shows reports of elder abuse victims aged over 65 has increased 18 per cent in the year to December 2024, with 7002 reports statewide1211 were physical assaults.
Senior Sergeant Mick Mannix of Wangaratta police urged anyone who know or suspect an older per-
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
son is being abused to come forward and make a report to police.
“We are seeing elder abuse often carried out at the hands of someone the victim should be able to trust such as a family member, friend or even a paid carer – and it needs to stop,” he said.
“Whether it’s physical abuse perpetrated against older people – such
as hitting, kicking or pushing – or psychological manipulation and intimidation such as threatening to put an older person in an aged care home if they don’t do as demanded –the crime will not be tolerated.
“All of these forms of abuse fall under the umbrella of family violence and should be reported to police because any attack on an elderly person or any other vulnerable person within our community is completely unacceptable.
■ Continued page 2
We are seeing elder abuse often carried out at the hands of someone the victim should be able to trust such as a family member, friend or even a paid carer – and it needs to stop.
Senior Sergeant Mick Mannix
A EUROA man has pleaded guilty to stabbing a Benalla man and leaving him with his intestines hanging out of his stomach, a court has heard.
Appearing via a prison link from Ravenhall Correctional Centre in a green jumper, the 26-year-old pleaded at the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday to an amended charge of reckless conduct causing injury, initially brought to the court as intentional conduct.
The court heard around 12:54am on 30 January this year the Euroa man attended a Jenson Court, Benalla address with a golf club.
An occupant answered the door and the parties began yelling, before the accused allegedly hit the building with
the golf club and smashed a window.
A Benalla man, known to the defendant, appeared at the door and the 26-year-old approached him, allegedly taking a swing of the club at him.
An alleged confrontation followed, which ended in the 26-year-old stabbing the victim with a kitchen knife in the abdomen.
In a victim impact statement, the Benalla victim said the stabbing caused his intestines to pour out of his stomach, with all three other occupants allegedly witnessing the incident.
The Euroa man allegedly fled back to where he was staying with his aunty, who lived in the same court at Benalla.
After waking up to knock-
ing at the door around 1am, the woman let the 26-year-old inside and could allegedly hear the occupants from the scene of the incident screaming “he’s been stabbed”.
“What have you done?” The defendant’s aunty allegedly asked her nephew, as he was washing his hands.
Emergency services arrived at the incident, airlifting the victim with life-threatening injuries to hospital in Melbourne where he would be placed into an induced coma.
Police were told by the witnesses where the defendant had fled and arrested him at his auntie’s home.
Tracksuit pants, a hoodie and a golf club were seized at the home while the knife was seized at the
scene of the stabbing.
The 26-year-old was taken to Wangaratta police for questioning where he was released about 3:45am, before being brought back into custody the next day in Euroa.
Police seized camera footage and audio taken from outside the Jenson Court home where the stabbing occurred, which allegedly hears the occupants screaming the defendant’s name.
The 26-year-old told police he was attacked and acted in self-defence.
The court heard the victim had 85cm of intestines removed during surgery and obtained abdominal trauma and bowel injuries from the stabbing.
In his statement, the victim said he experienced night-
mares and a lack of sleep due to his injuries following the incident.
Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said while his client did not dispute the stabbing itself, he said details leading up to the incident would be contested.
Mr Clancy said an affray occurred between his client and the victim prior to the stabbing, which left the 26-year-old with visible injuries.
Mr Clancy argued to have the matter heard in the magistrates’ court, but prosecutor Marcel White said “even on his best day”, the maximum twoyear prison sentence for a single offence in the jurisdiction would not be enough.
“There’s no way two years is an appropriate ceiling,” he said.
“It’s a pretty grave stabbing; intestines are hanging out of the stomach.”
Mr White said the 26-yearold had previously spent 228 days in custody for a similar stabbing offence which occurred at the same Benalla court, causing similar serious injuries to the chest and lower leg of the victim.
Magistrate Amina Bhai said the matter had to be heard in a higher court due to the seriousness of the offence and history of the defendant.
Mr Clancy said the three witnesses and the victim would be brought to court to give evidence.
Magistrate Bhai adjourned the matter for a directions hearing at the Wangaratta County Court on 23 September.
■ From page 1
“Local police will continue to work tirelessly to crackdown on elder abuse and keep older people safe.”
Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is often carried out by someone the victim knows and trusts such as family, friends or carers.
It’s a complex crime because it abuses trust.
It is a crime that takes many forms and doesn’t occur in isolation.
Wangaratta Centre Against Violence (CAV) chief executive officer Jamie Chubb said CAV stands with Victoria Police and community services across the state in raising awareness of elder abuse, a deeply troubling and underreported issue that continues to affect too many older people in communities.
“We know from our daily work and conversations that the experience of elder abuse is not limited by geography; this is an issue felt in all communities, including our own,” she said.
“Elder abuse often takes place behind closed doors and may involve those closest to the victim.
“It can be physical, financial, emotional, social, or manifest as neglect.
“The signs are not always obvious.
“Many older people suffer in silence due to fear, shame, or dependence on those causing them harm.
“No one deserves to be harmed, ignored, or silenced: if you suspect an older person is being mistreated, if something doesn’t feel right, please speak up.
“Reaching out can make all the difference.”
Victoria Police is calling on people to not ignore the signs and speak up by making a report if they know, or suspect, an older person is being subjected to this crime.
Any information provided to police is crucial to help to stop those causing abuse to older people.
If you or someone close to you discloses, they are a victim of elder abuse, please believe them and encourage them to contact police.
In an emergency call Triple Zero (000).
In non-urgent cases if you know or suspect an older person is being abused and prefer to make an anonymous report, you can do so online via the Crime Stoppers Victoria website.
Victorians can contact Seniors’ Rights Victoria on the organisation’s free confidential helpline at 1300 368 821 or visit seniorsrights. org.au for further advice.
Signs of elder abuse can include:
• Unexplained injuries or frequent hospital visits.
• Sudden changes in financial circumstances or missing possessions.
• Withdrawal from usual activities or increased isolation.
• Expressions of fear, anxiety, or confusion, especially around certain people.
• Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or unattended medical needs.
• A carer or family member speaking on behalf of the older person in a controlling manner.
The main forms of elder abuse include:
• Physical abuse: includes threats and assaulting or causing physical harm.
• Financial abuse: using someone’s money, property or other assets illegally or improperly or forcing someone to change their will or sign documents.
• Emotional or psychological abuse: behaviour that torments, intimidates, harasses or is offensive to the other person.
• Social abuse: Stopping the older person from participating in usual forms of enjoyment.
• Neglect: Failing to provide failing to provide basic necessities like food, medication, or warmth.
By SIMONE KERWIN
THIS week’s chilly conditions have provided the perfect backdrop for preparing the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool for its Big Freeze event this Sunday.
As fog hugged the venue on Wednesday, staff members Jaimie Field, Paul Barker and Gracie Reid
bravely dipped their toes in the water to get a little taste of what nominated sliders will encounter as they enter the pool from 1pm on Sunday afternoon.
Among those who will be sliding into the pool from a giant inflatable are Rural City of Wangaratta chief executive officer Brendan McGrath, and sports, aquatics and events precinct
manager Leon Newton.
Like the Neale Daniherinspired MCG event, the inaugural Big Freeze at WSAC will raise awareness and funds for research into motor neurone disease.
Termed ‘The Beast’ by Daniher, MND attacks and weakens the nerves that communicate between the brain and the muscles needed to move, speak,
swallow and breathe.
FightMND was founded in 2014 by Daniher, Pat Cunningham and the late Dr Ian Davis, with the vision of a world free from MND, and their efforts sparked a movement which has united Australians in the battle against the disease.
More than $4000 has so far been raised by WSAC for the cause, through donations
and the sale of FightMND beanies and socks.
As well as locals taking to the inflatable slide, Sunday’s event will feature a host of other frosty fun around the icy WSAC outdoor pool.
There will be the chance to take part in ice bucket challenges and team cold plunges, face-painting for the kids, a DJ, and a barbecue.
Those attending the gold coin entry event are encouraged to wear blue for the chance to win prizes, or to rug up in official FightMND beanies and socks, which are available for purchase from the WSAC foyer, with all proceeds going to the campaign. Even those unable to take the plunge are encouraged to donate or fundraise by visiting www.wsac.vic.gov.au
BUSINESS Wangaratta Chamber of Commerce has raised concerns about the continuation of paid parking in the CBD and they plan to ask council to seriously consider removing it when it comes time for review.
Rural City of Wangaratta Council unanimously decided to replace the out-of-date meters with paid parking via the EasyPark app at the February meeting.
One of the rulings was for council to receive quarterly updates on how the system is progressing and functioning and a review report will be submitted to council in June 2026.
Although Business Wangaratta did not make a submission to the parking agenda item in February, chair Adrian Fox verbally objected at the meeting and said the chamber has written letters to council in the past against paid parking.
However, Councillor Tania Maxwell noted at the February meeting that she had not had one business come forward to her to say why they don’t like paid parking.
Mr Fox and fellow committee member Adrian O’Callaghan will keep a close eye on the topic and they want feedback from local business operators to inform council in its review.
Mr Fox said businesses want every person to come through their door, including the people
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
who don’t have a smartphone to access the EasyPark app.
The voucher option that people can obtain through council is a substitute for those unable to access EasyPark, but Mr Fox noted that if you’re a visitor to town without a smartphone, you’re in trouble.
“It’s embarrassing that most of our regional cousins saw fit not to have paid parking,” he said.
“With the parking meters now dysfunctional or removed, this was the opportunity to do something about it and make parking free.”
Councils across the board have been crying poor since rate capping began in 2016-17 and they survive off fees and charges such as parking to maintain a satisfactory standard of services.
“This is a factor, but the public have said they want free parking and it’s incumbent on the council to supply it,” Mr Fox said.
Mr O’Callaghan said as Wangaratta is in a central regional location the city wants to attract tourism.
“Navigating your way through the app is complex for some people and they presume everyone understands
technology,” he said.
Business Wangaratta believes the first hour of parking should be free so the idea of stopping off in the CBD is inviting for visitors to the rural city.
Mr Fox and Mr O’Callaghan plan to consult chamber members and work on a submission in hope of influencing the June 2026 parking review.
The chamber only has two people on the committee and they are seeking more members to join the fold to advocate in the best interests of local businesses.
For more information call Adrian Fox on 0409 323 937.
POLICE are seeking a term of imprisonment for a Wangaratta man who allegedly strangled their ex-partner.
Appearing at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, the man refused to plead guilty to family violence allegations while representing himself and did not return to court after the lunchtime adjournment as required.
The court heard on 10 February, 2023, the man allegedly lost his temper at his 14-year-old son and threatened to put his head through a wall for using the last of the iced coffee syrup.
That night there was an alleged confrontation with his defacto ex-partner, who he lived with in a rental property at Moyhu and told her he would be leaving.
He then allegedly choked her while in bed for around 20 to 30 seconds while yelling at her.
The victim allegedly tried to bite the man’s hand but she couldn’t breathe or speak.
Once free, the man allegedly kicked down a door as the victim tried to keep him out of a room.
All four of the victim’s children were present along with a friend of one of their sons.
The accused then allegedly grabbed a jack handle with alleged intentions of damaging a vehicle.
As he allegedly revved the engine excessively, the victim jumped in the rear passenger seat to prevent him from leaving.
After multiple calls to Triple Zero by the victim and some of
her children, six police officers arrived and arrested the man.
He told police the victim had jumped on top of him and he had restrained her by the wrists, not strangled her.
At court he said three-quarters of the police summary was “fabricated” and he had never done anything to harm his partner in their 23-year relationship.
“I wanted to get away from the situation, but she didn’t want that,” he said.
“I’m not an abusive person.”
The defendant said he lives with a terminal lung cancer diagnosis and had no intentions of being in contact with the victim again.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson
said police were seeking imprisonment due to an extensive history of the accused, and the alleged strangulation of his ex-partner with children present.
Led Sen Const Williamson also raised doubts about the man’s terminal illness diagnosis and urged the defendant to provide proof.
“This is not the first time we’ve heard this and we are yet to see any material,” she said.
Magistrate Victoria Campbell read a victim impact statement which she said detailed a “very concerning” history of domestic violence.
She stood the matter down to discuss a date for a contest hearing; however, the defendant did not return to court and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
THE challenge of trekking the infamous Kokoda Track is getting very real for the 2025 Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship students.
Due to an unfortunate sports injury, one of the students is unable to take part in this year’s trek, however, Wangaratta RSL is pleased to confirm that reserve Makiah McCallum from Cathedral College has accepted the challenge and has joined the trekking team.
Wangaratta RSL volunteer coordinator Craig Iskov said Makiah, Oskar English and Charl Wright and their parents took part in a briefing session on Monday, 16 June at the Wangaratta RSL Club.
Trek leader Gary Gaffney attended along with RSL committee members.
“Gary checked off final details with the students on training, equipment and packing tricks and offered advice on what to expect each day as they trek southwards from Kokoda to Owers Corner,” Mr Iskov said.
“The students will learn a lot about themselves while immersed in Australian history based around local soldiers who fought and died on the track.
“Their teamwork, leadership skills and resilience will be tested each day, as they experience the vastly different lifestyle of the village people along the track.
“Their trek culminates with a visit to the hauntingly beautiful Bomana War Cemetery where each student will pay their respects at the grave of the local soldier they represent.”
On their return the students will share their experiences at their schools, and at a families and sponsors function at Wangaratta RSL Club on Monday, 25 August at 7pm. Interested people are welcome to attend.
Conosci i tuoi diritti e le tue responsabilità per poter discutere di sicurezza sul posto di lavoro.
Per parlare con WorkSafe avvalendoti di un interprete, chiama il numero 131 450 o visita il sito worksafe.vic.gov.au/italian
Scan for information in Italian.
Understand your rights and responsibilities, so you can talk about safety at work.
To speak to WorkSafe with an interpreter call 131 450, or visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/languages Workplace safety is our common language
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA Catholics have already welcomed a new pope this year, and will soon also have a new bishop, with current Sandhurst Dio cese Bishop Shane Mackin lay appointed as the new Archbishop of Brisbane.
Pope Leo XIV, who was elected in May, announced on Wednesday evening that Bishop Mackinlay would re place retiring Archbishop of Brisbane Mark Coleridge.
Bishop Mackinlay said he was deeply honoured by Pope Leo’s decision to ap point him to the role, and was excited by the opportunity to serve the broader church in a new way, although moving on from the Diocese of Sandhurst brought sadness.
“Since I became the Bishop of Sandhurst nearly six years ago, I have been greatly encouraged and inspired by the lively faith and commitment of the people, priests and communities of the diocese, and by the generous friendship and welcome they have offered to me personally,” he said.
Archbishop Coleridge welcomed the appointment of Bishop Mackinlay as his successor.
THE King Valley township of Whitfield is a finalist in the Victoria Tourism Industry Council’s 2025 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, in the tiny town category.
The entry was compiled by the King Valley Tourism Association with support from the Rural City of Wangaratta, in an effort to raise awareness and boost visitation to the region.
The winner will be decided by public vote, which can be completed at vtic. com.au/
“Bishop Shane is an experienced pastor who knows how to listen, attuned both to the big picture and the practical details,” he said. “That combination makes him a capable administrator, well-suited to lead a diocese as large and complex as Brisbane.
“I have no doubt he will bring exceptional gifts and fresh energies to the Archdiocese of Brisbane, where he will be creative in pursuing the path of synodality into the future God is preparing.
“I am grateful to Pope Leo for this wise choice of a new archbishop.”
Bishop Mackinlay asked for prayerful support for himself, the Archdiocese of Brisbane, and for the Diocese of Sandhurst, as he prepared to take up his new ministry.
He will celebrate a farewell mass at Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral on Sunday, 7 September, and will
be installed as Archbishop of Brisbane at St Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane on Thursday, 11 September.
Following Bishop Mackinlay’s installation, the College of Consultors will elect a priest to serve as diocesan administrator until the ninth Bishop of Sandhurst is appointed.
AN event to celebrate the 150th birthday of the Oxley Shire Hall will be held on Saturday, 28 June.
There will be a heritage display, kid’s activities, afternoon tea and wine tastings from 3pm to 5pm and an official welcome and birthday cake from 5pm to 6pm. This will be followed by an evening of food, live music and entertainment, with food trucks, face painting and fire twirling, and all are welcome.
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA’S Anglican diocese must move “from a maintenance to a mission mode” to ensure its future, according to Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester.
Speaking at the diocese’s recent synod, Bishop Bester led with the theme ‘God of Collaboration’ in his charge, urging parishes to work closely together and to “not only think outside the box, but move outside the box” in terms of their approach to ministry.
“Jesus, in the exercise of his ministry, never acted as a solo pilot, but called others to share in this ministry of collaboration, the ministry of working together,” he said.
Bishop Bester said declining congregation numbers, financial constraints on parishes, and lack of energy, resources and available clergy meant that even with cooperative ministry structures, the diocese faced many challenges.
“Of the 59 churches in the Diocese of Wangaratta, 21 have fewer than 10 people in attendance, with some mostly around three or four regular attendees,” he said.
“Ministry districts with up to four or five churches are still not able to cover full-time ministry, and as a result, in 2018 our bishop-incouncil resolved to change the status of most parishes to parochial districts.
“Even in the few parishes where ministry can still be financed, op-shops or property rental income have become the saving grace. There are also many fundraising activities to augment the income of all churches.”
Bishop Bester said six churches in the diocese had been deconsecrated in the past few years, which saddened him, but through the sale of land and property no longer required and the reduction in building maintenance costs, funds were able to be established to invest in ministry.
He said the need for collaboration in working for all people and parishes within the diocese required “radical discipleship and innovative leadership strategies where we will be willing to take the bull by the horns”.
“This must be accompanied by willing participation by all our stakeholders because, unless our collaboration beats competition, we will find ourselves in a space where we might not exist in our present structure as a diocese for long,” he said.
“Mentioning the 21 church-
Of
the 59 churches in the Diocese of
Wangaratta, 21 have fewer than 10 people in attendance, with some mostly around three or four regular attendees.
- BISHOP CLARENCE BESTER
es with fewer than 10 in attendance should be reason enough for us to strengthen our plan and put our energy into those centres where there is a better chance of a continuing ministry.”
Bishop Bester said while there may be some resistance to the new paradigm, the diocese must embrace new opportunities for collaboration.
“The hard reality is we need to determine what will work and how best we can develop a biblical model of ministry for the continuation of ministry, but not necessarily within a church building,” he said.
Bishop Bester cited the example of another diocese which had previously developed a strategy where any local congregation needed to have at least 10 people registered and in attendance, and raise an annual $10,000 income.
In a proposal presented at synod held in late May and set to be considered by bishop-in-council, he suggested introducing a similar concept, where local congregations would need to contribute their share of insurance, property rates and utilities, as
well as the upkeep and maintenance of their buildings.
In addition, a yearly amount to be decided by bishop-in-council and depending on how many services were held each month, would need to be raised towards the overall ministry costs.
Shared leadership among a few clergy, and having lay people trained and licensed for appropriate ministry roles, was also a possibility.
“Unless we do things differently, act wisely and in a timely manner, we might find ourselves in a very awkward situation soon,” Bishop Bester said.
“In 2016, when there was a motion before the synod to resolve an investigation into the division of the Diocese of Wangaratta, with parts going to other dioceses, as a relative newcomer to the diocese I opposed this.
“I know the difficulties, I am aware of the challenges, I see the opportunities and I will continue to work towards the ongoing ministry of the Diocese of Wangaratta.
“I ask you to join me in this journey because, together, we can do much.”
WORKING together, and thinking flexibly about how the future can be best approached, have been vital over the past five years.
Coping through the restrictions of the pandemic made it clearer than ever to our community that more can be achieved through collaboration than by operating alone, and that we need to connect with others to nurture our own wellbeing.
Likewise, thinking outside the box to counter the situation created avenues that enabled us to continue learning, working and interacting, amid circumstances that rendered previous generations even more divided and uncertain than we were.
However, as restrictions abated and life returned to the ‘new normal’, many seemed to forget the best of that time - the innovative, creative and caring intentions that kept us together.
Instead, developments which became the norm in pandemic conditions, such as livestreams, e-meetings and digital communication, have replaced in-person connection where they don’t always need to.
So it is a fitting theme to have been chosen by Anglican Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester for his 2025 synod charge, this one of collaboration.
Like the Diocese of Wangaratta, church groups and other sectors of the community including sporting clubs, are feeling the effects of shifts in society around volunteering and attending gatherings.
It is for many, as Bishop Bester says, a “hard reality”, and one which must be addressed by all involved in order to move forward, even if a new form is called for.
This focus on collaboration is a great reminder that looking at things from a range of perspectives can spark much-needed rejuvenation.
FACEBOOK users this week commented on an annual Trivia night raising $9000 for mental health.
Tania Maxwell: Great effort to all involved.
Da Vinci Social Club: Great work
Melissa Merkel: Wonderful effort, congrats to all Involved.
Mandi Jane: That is one epic effort!
Facebook users this week commented on the mayor’s
letter to the Premier about the proposed Meadow Creek solar farm.
Linda Simpson: Thank you to Mayors Irene Grant & Dean Rees and all Rural City of Wangaratta Councillors for continuing to oppose this facility in a totally inappropriate location. It should never have been considered in the first place. And no, it’s not a struggling Farmer who owns this land, it’s a wealthy businessman who cares nothing
WE awake each morning and catch up on what’s the latest news, the doings as my English friend would say.
What’s the latest drama unfolding in the USA.
What or to whom has the president said, done, provoked, ripped off, insulted, scammed and so on, overnight?
Across the planet, a country we once thought of as somewhat stable, unravels before our eyes.
A circus of distrust and delusion.
Luke R Davies, Wangaratta
CONGRATULATIONS to John and Jennefer Houghton and the late Graham Colson - three deeply respected members of the Wangaratta community - who have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday honours.
John and Jennefer have made a remarkable impact through their tireless community work, and it’s heartening to see their efforts formally acknowledged.
It is also a fitting tribute to the late Graham Colson, whose legacy of community service continues to inspire.
Graham gave so much of himself to Wangaratta, and this honour serves as a lasting reminder of his quiet dedication.
To each of them, and to their families, thank you, and congratulations.
Tim McCurdy, Nationals MP for Ovens Valley
NEW Dementia Australia data has found an increase in Australians living with dementia, their families and carers reaching out for care and support.
It is expected by the end of June, the number of National Dementia Helpline enquiries related to dementia care and support will have increased by nearly 20 per cent compared to the previous financial year.
The enquires include people seeking access to programs like respite or peer support, and in some cases, needing more immediate or specialised assistance.
The increase shows Australians impacted by dementia are more and more in need of critical support and services.
With an estimated 433,300 Australians
NOTE: Comments
for the land, environment or the Community.
Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group: Wealthy Billionaires
Georgina Rea: Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group who cares? It is their land their say or at least it should be.
Charles Branstom: Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group Third generation farmers actually.
Tim O’Neill: Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group let’s put Nuclear on there instead, a much better solution then bad for the environment solar WayneBatten:Thisisgood be nice if lrene could do a letter about this fire levy tax as well
Georgina Rea: Seems even our Mayor is a NIMBY.
Very disappointing to see Irene Grant trying to interfere in this process.
Have your say Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.
Chronicle 13K likes 15K followers
living with dementia in 2025, and with this number expected to increase to an estimated 812,500 by 2054 without a significant intervention, the need for care and support will continue to grow.
It is why we are asking Australians to consider making a tax-deductible donation to Dementia Australia during our 2025 Tax Appeal, so that we can continue to keep up with the increasing demand for support.
With more Australians than ever turning to Dementia Australia for support, the need for vital services continues to grow.
By donating to the 2025 Tax Appeal, you can help ensure that programs like the National Dementia Helpline, counselling and other services for Australians impacted by dementia are able to meet this rising demand and continue to provide crucial support.
Donate today at donate.dementia.org.au/ tax-appeal.
All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Professor Tanya Buchanan, Dementia Australia CEO
The latest Beef Producer Intentions Survey (BPIS) released by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has shown that producers are confi-
dent in the sector’s outlook. It has also signalled producers are maintaining stable herd management strategies despite regional, national and global challenges. Producer sentiment nationally has strengthened with a net sentiment score of +53, up from +47 in November 2024.
When producers were surveyed about herd intentions, 26 per cent plan to increase their herd size over the next 12 months, while 56 per cent intend to maintain current levels. Only 19 per cent expect to reduce herd size. These figures are consistent with the previous survey and reflect a stable outlook across both northern and southern production systems.
Stephen Bignell, MLA market information manager
FACEBOOK users this week commented on a ‘Draw the Line’ vigil held in Wangaratta for Palestine.
Brian Knight: You all seem to forget that 89% of Palestinians support Hamas but now look at them all crying g because they say they don’t have food and have you not seen Hamas actually taking the food for themselves and not sharing it with there ppl so really who us to blame for what’s going on they voted them in they support them now they suffer because of them wake up ppl
Leslie Matthews: Brian Knight You should stick to just shouting at clouds..... your ignorance is staggering.
Courtney Davern: Such an amazing group of women bringing community together to use our privilege and our voice! I’m so very proud to stand with you to stop the genocide happening in front of the world
Lucille Loveday: Stop killing children, stop bombing hospitals, stop bombing schools. In your warm bed tonight all
Have your say
toasty and safe… think to yourself….. Stop Killing children, stop starving children. And then wake up and do something about it. What side of history would you like to be on?
Judy Heather: What about supporting the families of Israeli and victims of October attacks and hostages. I don’t agree with starving any people but Israel didn’t start this
Leslie Matthews: Judy Heather What about learning a bit about history before making incorrect statements?
Helen Senior: Judy Heather totally agree with you.
Christopher Maud: Judy Heather so you believe the Hamas uprising came totally out of the blue without any provocation? Perhaps do a bit more learning.
Bradley Piazza: Free the hostages
Christopher Maud: Bradley Piazza oh, so the Israelis can just bulldoze the entire Gaza strip.
Bradley Piazza: Christopher Maud I hear they just want their citizens back
We have chocolate boxes around town, raising donations for The Push-Up Challenge! Here are the locations, so you can get yourself a sweet treat whilst supporting your local headspace centre Wangaratta Council front counter Synergy Youth Hub headspace Wangaratta With Lyla - one of our Youth Reference Group Members!
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
VICTORIAN Premier Jacin-
ta Allan would not be drawn to comment on the Meadow Creek Solar Farm application following a recent letter to sent to her by Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant.
Cr Grant wrote a letter to Premier Allan dated 10 June as an 11th hour plea to the government, urging it to refuse a permit for the proposed development based on numerous grounds.
One of the aspects noted by the mayor in her letter was that VicGrid does not identify the North East as being suitable for any of the proposed Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).
The draft REZs show industry and communities where renewable energy development should be focused.
However, a government spokesperson this week reported that VicGrid will soon be consulting on a Grid Impact Assessment process for projects that are under development outside of REZs (including the Meadow Creek proposal), which will be fi-
nalised later this year.
Developers inside a renewable energy zone will be given first access to connect to the grid.
VicGrid released a consultation paper on the grid impact assessment in January that set out the proposed approach at a high level for early stakeholder input. It will soon be launching another round of consulta-
tion, open to community and industry, on the new Victorian Access Regime, setting out how access to the transmission network will be managed inside and outside of renewable energy zones.
ments for projects underway.
This will include a detailed grid impact assessment guide and other details of the proposed approach to access and connections, including an update on transitional arrange-
“The grid impact assessment will be based on projects not negatively impacting the network access of generators inside the zone, and meeting government expectations on community, landholder and Traditional Owner engagement, including providing comparable benefits,” a government spokesperson said.
“Members of the commu-
nity can make submissions which will form part of any planning decision-making process.
“Every submission will be considered as part of the decision-making process.”
The planning application and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) controlled action documentation were on public notice/exhibition,
which concluded on 10 June. After public notice finishes, the proponent is required to respond to the concerns made.
Department of Transport and Planning officers engaged with council officers and various agencies including the CFA, Goulburn Murray Water, North East Catchment Management Authority, Worksafe, and DEECA.
YEAR 9 students participate in the Social Enterprise program each semester in either food technology, art, or agriculture and horticulture.
YEAR 10 careers students had an incredible opportunity to hear from some of Wangaratta High School’s amazing alumni at the Alumni Career Insight Session on Wednesday, 28 May.
ENTERPRISING BUSINESS: CCW students Ava Hamilton and Adeline Rymer were selling pasta with homemade pesto at the social enterprise market.
ideas to their own writing styles.
ABOUT 20 year 5/6 students recently had the opportunity to participate in a workshop held at the Wangaratta Library, with Australian author Dee White.
Semester one students recently had their trading days and sold their products to students, staff and the school community and it was a big hit, with some stalls selling out.
Students chose a charity to donate their profits to.
ROLE MODELS: The Wangaratta High School community said a big thank you to participating alumni including (from left) Brooke Winzer (Class of 2001 – massage therapist), Jeremy Nash (Class of 1996 - CEO of John Cotton), Emma Harper (Class of 2011 – lawyer), Niall Waring (Class of 1993 – former senior sergeant, now in community transport), Alannah Baguley (Class of 2022 – nursing student), Grace Griffiths (Class of 2001) –family violence case manager, and Megan De Fazio – Wangaratta High School alumni coordinator.
From lawyers and nurses to CEOs and massage therapists, our guest speakers shared their journeys, career tips and life lessons.
The students were fully engaged - asking thoughtful questions (including one brave student who asked a CEO about his salary) and soaking up every bit of advice.
The school thanked participants for their support of the event.
STUDENTS always manage to find plenty of ways to have fun and entertain themselves in the playground. It’s wonderful to see kids enjoying themselves in exactly the same ways their parents did when they were the same age.
SEASONAL FUN: Carra students Alice and Milly Richardson, Archy Nottingham, Cypress Morton, Sophie Bell and Jacob Saunders enjoyed the last Autumn leaves of the season.
Dee has written more than 20 books with her latest releases including Beyond Belief (Heroes of the Holocaust), Eddy Popcorn’s Guide to Parent Training and Eddy Popcorn’s Guide to Teacher Taming.
The students enjoyed the chance to listen and learn from Dee, around how to develop their writing skills, create exciting and engaging stories and to continue to love and enjoy books.
With renewed interest and focus, the students began to write some of their own stories, creating exciting characters amidst different settings and scenarios.
Hopefully there may be some new young authors filling bookshelves in stores in the very near future.
2If you sailed from Perth to Kenya in Africa using the most direct route, which ocean would you cross?
THE school proudly celebrated Education Support Day with a special morning tea, recognising the incredible work of our dedicated education support staff. At assembly, they were honoured with heartfelt cards and chocolates.
Their care, commitment, and behind-the-scenes efforts are truly appreciated by students, staff and the wider school community.
HELPING HANDS: Thanks went to (from left) Kaelah Ivone, Michelle Altair, Abbey Bigham-Wallis, Katrina Seager, Courtney Kilner and Tanya Ivone (absent: Kay Clarke) on Education Support Staff Recognition Day at Wangaratta Primary School.
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
SOMETIMES it can take a bold step into the unknown to mark off an item on your bucket list.
Whether it’s running a marathon, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or taking up pottery classes, most of us have lifelong dreams we are yet to fulfill.
For Tristan Wilson, auditioning for a role in a theatre production was next on the list and before he knew it he was cast as Len in Wangaratta Players production of “Rumours”, the fast-paced comedy by legendary American playwright Neil Simon.
This production of “Rumours” is set in Melbourne in the 1980s, where a dinner party in a well-to-do household begins with two major problems: the hostess is missing, and the host is upstairs - bloodied, delirious, and not saying much.
What follows is a hysterical spiral of miscommunication, cover-ups, wild theories - and a whole lot of rumours.
“I saw an advert for the audition in an awesome newspaper called The Chronicle (product placement - can I get a free subscription?),” Tristan said.
“It was something I’d always wanted to try my hand at and I’m pretty sure it’s linked to a mid-life crisis.
“My only previous experience was in a musical back in year 12which was when Video Ezy was still going strong. Remember five weeklies for five dollars?
“What a world we lived in.
“So, this is my first involvement with the Wangaratta Players.”
It may have been a steep learning curve but Tristan has enjoyed the process of developing his acting skills under directors Steve Thornycroft and Leanne Kelly.
He is also blessed to play opposite the experienced Jess Grant as husband and wife couple Len and Claire.
“I really enjoy getting the chance to yell at strangers (it’s in the scriptI’m not going rogue),” he said.
“Unfortunately, I’m now getting to know the cast, and they’re a great bunch of talented people…
AS part of triple j’s 50th birthday celebrations, it is staging a Hottest 100 of Australian Songs countdown, and polls are now open to allow locals to nominate their favourites.
so now I just feel rude.”
Jess is very familiar to North East audiences after playing diverse roles with Wangaratta Players, Benalla Theatre Company and Allegro Theatre Company and just finished portraying Miss Scarlett in Beechworth Theatre Company’s “Clue”.
“I had recently done Neil Simon’s Barefoot in the Park with Wang Players and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try out for another of his plays,” Jess said
“I also love being on stage.
“I’ve gotten to work with 90 per cent of new faces and actors I’ve never worked with before.
“It’s been such a fun enjoyable experience with everybody bring-
ing their own talents to the magic.
“I also love the ‘note’ process from the directors as well as having freedom to bring our own ideas to our characters.”
She described her character as “funny yet ditzy” type who has some great one-liners or moments of complete stupidity.
“I love that her relationship seems forced in the beginning and it slowly re-blossoms through the actions of herself and her husband,” Jess said.
“It’s easy to become complacent in a relationship and this play allows us to see that it can be reversed.”
She was also full of praise for
her on stage husband.
“Tristan is hilarious and brings the right balance to his character to offset my character perfectly,” Jess said.
“This play has so much for the audience - The humour, the stupidity, the drama, the suspense, the gossip and, of course, the brilliant acting that brings the characters to life.”
Rumours will be performed at The Stage Door Studio, Evans Street Wangaratta on Friday, 27 June 7:30pm, Saturday, 28 June 7:30pm, Sunday, 29 June 2pm, Friday, 4 July 7:30pm, Saturday, 5 July 7:30pm, and Sunday, 6 July 2pm.
Book tickets online at www.trybooking.com/CZDWH.
The special mid-year countdown is dedicated to the homegrown artists and tracks which have resonated across generations, and helped defined the nation’s sound.
Voting opened on 17 June and will close on 17 July, with the countdown to be staged on 26 July on triple j, Double j, triple j Unearthed, and triple j Hottest.
The only stipulation in voting is that songs must have been released before triple j’s 50th birthday on 19 January, 2025. Head to the triple j website to browse through the shortlist, or import your own favourites, and then listen in to see whether they make the Hottest 100.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
AN unaccompanied learner driver was caught more than 30km/h over the speed limit in an early morning intercept on the Hume Freeway Monday.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said Benalla Highway Patrol members intercepted the white utility around 3:50am after they caught the car flying past at an alleged speed of 143km/h near Benalla.
The male from the Northern Territory was an L-plated driver who was unaccompanied, and the car’s registration had expired.
Police impounded the vehicle for 30 days at a cost of $1280.
“This serves as a strong reminder - learner drivers must be accompanied, and speeding is never worth the risk,” the police spokesperson said.
ZONTA Wangaratta was recently surprised and delighted to receive a donation of $1338 from Cathedral College Wangaratta.
This donation was raised by students in Warby House at their recent Mother’s Day breakfast.
President at Zonta Wangaratta, Elizabeth Wilson, said the club was most appreciative to receive the unexpected donation.
“Our fundraising activities are a major part of our work, which then allows us to support various activities,” she said.
“It has been agreed that this donation will be put towards supporting a new award to be given by Zonta Wangaratta this year – the STEM Award.”
The Zonta Women in STEM Award celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of women between 18-35 years of age in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields and acknowledge their research, pioneering discoveries, and/ or exemplary contributions to advancing knowledge and innovation in a STEM field.
Zonta encourages women to pursue education in STEM
through this pilot program. Applications from the Wangaratta community will be welcomed in August this year. It is hoped that applications will be received from local schools and colleges as well as organisations and businesses who may have a young woman between 18-35 years of age who meets the criteria.
The winner of the local
award will receive $500 and is then eligible to be considered for the international award, which will be offering up to 16 awards of $10,000US each.
The donation raised by Cathedral College Wangaratta will support this award for three years.
It is anticipated this award will now continue on an annual basis to support young local women to
Backing regional artists, voices for Victoria’s pride
EXPRESSIONS of interest for the Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program are now open, aimed at supporting regional and rural events that showcase LGBTIQA+ artists, voices and experiences.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available for community groups, councils and organisations to deliver inclusive events that help connect LGBTIQA+ communities and celebrate pride across the state.
Delivered in partnership with leading LGB-
TIQA+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma, Victoria’s Pride is a statewide celebration of pride that culminates in a one-day street party in Fitzroy’ in February 2026.
The regional program gives more Victorians the chance to support and celebrate rainbow communities, while amplifying the stories, creativity and contributions of LGBTIQA+ people.
Applications are open until 5 August.
To apply or for more information, visit midsumma.org.au/regional-activation.
achieve their full potential.
Through fundraising activities, Zonta Wangaratta also supports activities undertaken by Zonta International for disadvantaged women and children in developing countries.
Zonta Wangaratta welcomes enquiries from people living in the community who may like to know more about membership.
Being a member of this club has many benefits – not least of which is fundraising for many worthy projects, offering support to local women and girls in our community.
In addition, the added benefit of joining a welcoming and friendly social group is a bonus.
Further enquiries are welcome through email zontawangaratta@gmail.com.
KING Valley Arts has launched a new round of small grants to support initiatives which enrich arts culture in the King Valley community.
KVA secretary Alicia Tua said through careful financial management of the annual King Valley Art Show, the organisation has been able to provide a financial boost to a variety of
arts-based projects, including innovative workshops, entertainment and exhibitions.
Applications for 2025 arts culture grants are now open, with three grants of up to $1500 each available, and they will close on 30 August.
To find out more visit kingvalleyarts.com.au/communitygrants/.
NATIONALS MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has accused the Victorian Government of wasting $36 million on a longpromised upgrade to the Victorian Water Register, saying the system is still no closer to delivery after five years of delays.
Mr McCurdy, who is the shadow minister for water, said Water Minister Gayle Tierney recently deflected responsibility for the delay and has refused to commit to a new delivery date.
He said the Victorian Water Register is a critical tool designed to provide transparent and timely information on water trading prices.
Despite its importance, the longawaited upgrade, first promised in 2020, remains stuck at the proof-of-concept stage.
“Labor has spent five years and $36 million and it appears they are yet to start work on the project,” Mr McCurdy said.
“The current software is nearly 20 years old, water prices are rising and producers are doing it tough under dry conditions, but Labor still can’t deliver the basics.”
By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS
THE Squirrel Glider is a beautiful nocturnal creature that is found across some of our woodlands and well-treed roadsides in the North East.
When first observed “flying” it was mistaken for a flying squirrel and hence its name.
These gliders are a type of small possum that have distinctive membranes of skin, stretching between their front and hind legs, that enable them to glide with ease through the air giving the impression of flying.
Squirrel Gliders are often mistaken for the more common but much smaller Krefft’s (AKA Sugar) Glider.
The long bushy tail as wide as the body at the base and longer and pointed face help identify the Squirrel Glider.
The fur is usually a brown-grey with a darker stripe from the forehead and down the back.
The underside of the body can vary from a pale grey to creamy yellow and the broad, bushy tail, while similar in colour to the upper body, has a distinctive dark tip.
Locally, Squirrel Gliders are not found in the mountain forests, preferring the lower parts with better soils containing
A FREE forum in Wangaratta next week will seek to help farmers and landowners with factual information regarding the opportunities for trees on privately owned land, based on federally funded research outcomes.
The event will feature a range of topics presented by leading specialists and presents an opportunity to explore
practical strategies for integrating trees into farming practices and boost both productivity and environmental sustainability.
The event runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 27 June.
For details go the North East Catchment Management Authority website.
box and redgum woodland patches and along roadsides and waterways.
They are even known to enter backyards in urban areas to feed using their incredible acrobatic tree climbing and gliding ability to traverse scattered trees to enter the gardens.
These gliders are found in trees and shrubs and rarely come to ground.
They have been recorded making regular foraging trips at night of over 2 kilometres and can glide across large open areas like the Ovens River.
The gliders climb to a limb on a tall tree then jump off and glide to another tree trunk, climb again and jump and so on.
This ability to traverse trees up to 50m apart is another important reason why we need to maintain treecover wherever possible including in urban areas and in paddocks and along roadsides and creeklines.
Squirrel Gliders are mainly active at night, emerging from tree hollows at dusk to forage for food before seeking cover again at dawn.
These gliders often shelter
on their own or in small family groups in a tree hollow on a small nest of leaves.
They utilise multiple hollows across their range, making large old trees with hollows vital for their future survival.
They forage primarily on insects (including caterpillars and beetles) but also on pollen and nectar (mostly from eucalypts).
In North East Victoria in winter plant exudates such as sap or resin from large wattle and eucalypt trees, are an important part of a Squirrel Glider’s diet because the weather is too cold for much insect life and little nectar.
Preferred feed trees often have multiple heart shaped incisions on and around the trunk or branch where the glider bites away the bark to expose sap flows.
The current cold nights are a good time to see Squirrel Gliders as they are often found in the lower wattle canopy foraging on wattle sap.
So rug up and use a spotlight or bright torch held as close as possible to your eyes and scan the lower canopies, you should eventually come across a glider by seeing its reflective eye-shine in the wattles along any of our waterways in Wangaratta and surrounding areas.
BEECHWORTH winemaker Adrian Rodda has been awarded the prestigious Premier’s Trophy for his 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay, announced at Parliament House Wednesday night.
An initiative of the Victorian Wine Show and supported by the Department of Premier and Cabinet, the award is decided by a panel of experts following a tasteoff between the winning wines from each of Victoria’s regional wine shows in 2024.
Panel member and incoming chair of judges at the Victorian Wine Show, Josh Cooper, said the judging represents “the best of the best” of the Victorian wine industry, with the diverse range of
from a great vintage showing a combination of fruit quality, depth of flavour with deft winemaking to amplify the quality raw materials.”
The 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay is made from grapes grown at high altitude in the King Valley.
The Premier’s Trophy tasting included regional classics such as Rutherglen durif, Yarra Valley pinot noir and Western Victorian shiraz, with a 2022 Anderson Winery Cellar Block durif (Rutherglen) and a 2023 Fighting Gully Road verdicchio (Beechworth) the other locals among the 12 champion wines.
Finalists attended the special event held at Parliament House, and their wines were
quality of the local wine in dustry.
Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan conducted her own tasting under wine show conditions, agreeing with the professional judges - also selecting the 2023 A. Rodda Chardonnay as her top wine.
Ms Allan admitted prior to the tasting that chardon nay was “not her favourite”, but left the tasting really im pressed with the quality of local chardonnay.
As such, the 2023 A. Rod da Baxendale Chardonnay was awarded the Premier’s Choice Award, as well as the Premier’s Trophy.
CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS:
Beechworth winemaker
Adrian Rodda was awarded the prestigious Premier’s Trophy, and the Premier’s Choice Award, for his 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay. He is pictured with Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan receiving the award.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
AUSSIE Disposals was one of many local businesses put in the limelight at the All Outdoor Expo earlier this month.
Sponsored by Aussie Disposals alongside 3NE/ Edge FM, Wangaratta Turf Club and Australian Caravan & Campers, the council-run event was enjoyed by more than 1000 people at the Wangaratta Racecourse.
Store manager Cass Cecchini was thrilled at the opportunity to invite the community to get to know the business better through the event.
“We want to be involved in as much as we can for the local communities so we definitely put our hand up,” she said.
“And then we put forward
the ultimate swag package as the prize.”
The prize, which was claimed by a Wangaratta local, included a snowy three hoop swag, a swag bag rated zero degrees, and a waterproof duffel bag, which combined is valued at more than $450.
According to her, there were “lots of people through the door” that day, relishing the opportunity to “get sales or bargains you might not be able to get in store”.
“Someone who might not shop with us might not realise we behave so much ski clothing, wet weather gear, winter clothing, gloves, beanies and thermals,” she said.
To familarise yourself with all that Aussie Disposals has to offer, you can visit their store at 106-108 Murphy Street, Wangaratta.
Hear the hits of Simon & Garfunkel
THE Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel, celebrating the music of one of the greatest vocal duos of all time, will visit the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 20 June at 7.30pm.
Performed by Mark Shelley and Peter O’Regan, with bass player Christopher Soulos, the show captures the mood and the social revolution of the 60s through the close vocal harmonies and stirring songs of the duo, penned by Paul Simon.
Including all the hits like Mrs Robinson, Homeward Bound, Sounds of Silence, Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Boxer and many more, tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.
THE Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC) will host a Big Freeze event to support FightMND, on Sunday, 22 June from 1pm.
The community is invited to brave the cold and plunge into the outdoor pool, in support of ground-breaking research for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Participants can register and fundraise leading up to the event and top fundraisers will earn the chance to climb an inflatable slide for their descent into the outdoor pool, while the community can enjoy fun, family-friendly activities, including ice bucket challenges and more.
AN exhibition of paintings by Rebecca Kos which celebrates all the fun, colour and quirky entertainment to be found in a traditional country show, is being held at the Art Gallery on Ovens.
Rebecca said there is something about country shows that stimulate all the senses; an essence she has endeavoured to capture in this collection of acrylic works.
Rebecca is an artist from Daysdale in the Southern Riverina of New South Wales, and she likes to take inspiration from her rural surroundings, also considering the impact humans have on the landscape.
She is also known for creating something special out of what others might consider the everyday, finding personal enjoyment in celebrating the nostalgia of a country show.
“I had been documenting the Walbundrie show using photographs since 2019, and last year I decided to
on Saturday, 21 June.
WANGARATTA-based choir Vocal Dimension invites the community to join them for a musical voyage through the cosmos during their Toward the Unknown Region concert at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Wangaratta on Sunday, 22 June at 3pm.
Lead by musical director Matthew Schultz and accompanied by Kieran Crichton on organ, with a brass ensemble featuring instrumentalists from the local region, enjoy a program of classical and popular choral and instrumental music inspired by humanity’s contemplation of the heavens.
Admission is $20 (via cash or EFTPOS at the door) with under-18s free, which includes a complimentary afternoon tea following the performance.
WANGARATTA based community choir Ostinato will perform a concert called Sailing on Song at the Oxley Shire Hall in Oxley on Sunday, 22 June at 2pm.
Enjoy local voices singing traditional and modern music inspired by sailing and the ocean, led by musical director, Ruth HillNoble and accompanied by Sandra Williams.
Tickets are $20 for adults (under 16 by gold coin at the door) available at Trybooking.com/DAJEP.
THE Darker Days Beer and Music festival will be held at Bright Brewery
Servicing Wangaratta for over 20 years in Implant placement
Dentists:
Dr. Tony Goodison B.D.Sc (Melb)
Dr. Joe Ibrahim D.D.S (Melb)
Dr. Michael Lin D.D.S (Melb)
Experience over 10 hours of live music, headlined by Aussie legends British India, with an array of beers on offer including guest brewers from Victoria and New Zealand.
It offers fun for all ages with a dedicated kids zone, fire shows, face painting, a silent disco, and even tattoos and tarot readings, with tickets available at darkerdays.com. au.
THE Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club will hold its next monthly Happy Dogs Walk on Sunday, 22 June.
The walk will commence at 9.30am from the Apex Park carpark and cover approximately three to
four kilometres in 50 minutes, with a coffee to follow at 10.30am at a nearby coffee venue.
The monthly Happy Dogs Walk is an opportunity for all dog owners to join in a social behaviour walk which allows the dogs to interact with one another in a public space.
THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available.
Stalls are available for just $20
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
make some artwork in acrylics, using these photos as a starting point,” she said.
“I wanted to capture the atmosphere of the country shows that are so important to small rural communities as gathering places - and an environment to have some fun away from the farm”.
Rebecca said her works consider why we come together for the thrill of the rides and the sideshows, the friendly competition, and the potential belly aches from the fairground fare.
Best in Show is on at Art Gallery on Ovens today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm.
An opening celebration will be held on Friday, 20 June from 5pm to 7pm with all welcome.
each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.
TAKE a trip down memory lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street.
The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm and entry is free, with exhibitions updated regularly. For more information email wangarattahistorialsociety@gmail. com or drop in and have a chat.
A fixed and reliable alternative to dentures or deteriorated teeth
Straumann Implants - Today’s leaders in dental implants guaranteed
Hygienists / Therapists: Cathryn Carboon R.D.H (Adel) Anne O’Sullivan R.D.T (Melb) Tina Tsui B.O.H (Adel)
For one or more missing teeth or full arch (All-on-4)
Denture stabilisation
Immediate solutions completed in the comfort of our practice
Focus on farm biosecurity at free talk in Oxley next week
THE Ovens Landcare Network has another Sunday session organised for this month, focused on farm biosecurity.
The free event will be held at the Milawa Hall from 10am on Sunday, 29 June, with guest speaker Greg Ferrier from Agriculture Victoria.
To register go to https://events.humanitix. com/farm-biosecurityevent-milawa
and government advocacy over the next 12 months.
FARMERS and agricultural professionals are invited to help shape the future of Australian agriculture by taking part in the Farmer Insights Survey, launched today by Farmers for Climate Action (FCA).
FCA CEO Natalie Collard
were transformative,” Ms Collard said.
“More than 700 farmers and industry professionals contributed, and their voices shaped our submission to the Federal Government’s agriculture and land sector plan.
on-farm impacts over the past three years.
71 per cent had already invested in emissions reduction measures on farms.
64 per cent planned further investment in emissions reduction within the next five years.
and validating emissions and carbon outcomes.
“This new survey will directly shape FCA’s policy focus, farmer engagement, and government advocacy over the next 12 months,” Ms Collard said.
Friday, 19 June, 2015
By SHANE DOUTHIE
“It also gave FCA a clear mandate on how to most effectively advocate for Australian farm-
Key findings from the previous survey included:
92 per cent of farmers reported changes in seasonal conditions and climate-related
The survey also identified three major barriers holding farmers back from greater climate action:
1. A lack of clear government policies and incentives.
2. High upfront costs and limited access to finance.
“If you’re a farmer or you work in agriculture, this is your chance to influence real outcomes - your experience matters, and we’re listening.”
The Farmer Insights Survey closes on 31 July. To participate, visit: https://farmersforclimateaction.org.au/blog/2025/05/29/
THE arrival of a new player in retail petrol in Wangaratta appears to have had an impact already on local fuel prices.
A day after its official opening on Wednesday, the Woolworths Caltex in Tone Road offered unleaded petrol at 133.5c per litre but with a redeemed Woolworths shopper docket or Everyday Rewards Card offering a 4c per litre discount, consumers could pay just 129.5c per litre.
Shell Coles Express in Parfitt Road has a standard unleaded
per discounts that reduces to 130.9c per litre.
That compares with APCO, which doesn’t have a discount price linked to a supermarket and offers unleaded fuel at 132.5c per litre.
The Caltex Service Centre in Rowan Street had unleaded petrol at 134.9c per litre.
The impact is more significant when you compare prices yesterday to the average price over the previous seven days.
According to the RACV Fuel Watch the average unleaded
Caltex Woolworths opened) was 139.1c per litre, the most expensive in the local towns surveyed.
Other regional average prices for unleaded fuel over the same period included 137.1c per litre in Yarrawonga, 132.5c in Wodonga, 138.5c in Benalla and 142.5c in Seymour.
Wangaratta yesterday had the cheapest of the nearby Woolworths discount outlets with the unleaded price per litre at Benalla 133.9c, Corowa 137.9c, Yarrawonga 145.9c and
Albury and Wodonga 145.9c.
One frustrated car owner contacted the Chronicle yesterday having paid 149.9c per litre for unleaded petrol at a Caltex service station in Lavington - a service station without supermarket discounts. It will be ‘fuelspotters’ heaven in Wangaratta for the next few weeks to follow the price movements locally since the new outlet opened and to see whether it will indeed mean a more competitive market place.
For now enjoy the lower prices.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
MEN from around the region had a keen appetite for a delicious breakfast as well as men’s health tips at Cancer Council Victoria’s annual Men’s Breakfast held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway last Friday, 13 June.
Hosted by Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group, men of all ages were invited to listen on to a panel discussion on melanoma (skin cancer) led by guest speakers Dr Simon Brettig and Dr Joel Eulenstein from Ovens Medical Group.
Such conversations invoked many inquiries from around the room to
learn more about this often understated issue.
With melanoma of the skin remaining a leading issue in Australia, Dr Brettig and Dr Eulenstein underscored the importance of getting checked. Even if you aren’t sure if that small freckle on your skin is cancerous or not; the worst case scenario from engaging medical advice is that it’s not a concern.
LED BY THE BEST: Event host Ray Champlin (left) with Dr Simon Brettig and Dr Joel Eulenstein of Ovens Medical Group in Wangaratta.
PHOTOS Grace Fredsberg
By MIKE SMITH
A LOCAL hunter has told of an frightening encounter with a wild dog in Mount Samaria State Park in response to the ongoing escalation of concerns over wild dogs in the Mansfield Shire.
The hunter agreed to tell his story under the condition of anonymity.
“I go out hunting a lot,” he said.
“In Mansfield Shire, I go into the bush looking for stags out the back of Tolmie and in Mount Samaria State Park.
“That means I see a lot of dogs.
“Anyone who spends time in the bush around there will see a lot about.
“Generally I spot them before they spot me.
“They just trot along the ridges and in the gullies forty or fifty metres ahead, often in pairs but I’ve seen them in packs of up to eight.
“Some of them look like what you might expect from wild dogs, mangy and unkempt.
“Others, you couldn’t tell from pets - they look well-fed and healthy with shining coats.
“Some of them are obviously dingoes while others look like kelpies or German shepherds that must have come from escaped or lost dogs that have bred with dingoes.
“I try to limit my exposure to them.
to take the chance and just shoot them but I don’t do that.
“There’s laws against it and if you fire a weapon that stag you’re looking for might disappear.
all the food left behind by the aerial culling, but they come in looking to feed on whatever animal has been shot.
“So I don’t shoot unless I have to.”
try and keep dry.
“The hood and the rain made it difficult to hear.
metres away from me.
“Dipped low in the grass, I could tell straight away it wasn’t there to play games.
“It was stalking me.
“As soon as it knew I had seen it, it let out an angry snarling sound and it launched itself towards me.
“I didn’t have time to raise my rifle, I just shot it from the hip hoping for the best.
“The bullet hit the dog in its leg when it was no more than five metres away from me.
“It whelped and its momentum carried it past me and it began sliding down the hillside.
“I’m not sure what would have happened if I hadn’t fired or if the shot had missed, I kind of had a feeling it was going to try and bite my leg and pull me down.”
He recalled one such time when he was given no choice but to shoot.
“When I see them, I hide behind a tree.
“I wait fifteen minutes and then I move on.
“Some say they prefer not
“Besides, I keep noticing if you fire a gun in an area, packs of dogs seem to migrate in to investigate.
“I don’t know whether it’s a coincidence or whether they’ve been conditioned by
“I was in Mount Samaria State Park deer stalking in the gullies,” he said.
“It was raining quite heavily and I had my hood up to
“I was cold and wet and tired when I stopped and got this strange sense that I wasn’t alone out there in the bush.”
It wasn’t a specific sight or sound that alerted him - just an intuition.
“I turned around and saw it,” he said.
“A big wild dog maybe 15
News of the hunter’s encounter in Mount Samaria State Park comes a week after a group of Mount Samaria area farmers wrote an open letter asking Mansfield Shire Council to support them by initiating a coordinated response to increased wild dog activity on private land and rising livestock losses.
BY PHOEBE MORGAN pmorgan@ nemedia.com.au
WANDILIGONG’S Peter Dixon plans to paddle 2500kms to raise $50,000 to support the Albury-Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre in memory of his loving wife Helen.
She passed away on March 9 this year after battling pancreatic cancer for more than 20 months, with the majority of her chemotherapy and radiation treatment performed at the Albury-Wodonga facility.
Married for 47 years, Peter said while life will never be the same without Helen, he wanted to do something in her honour, and help those who cared for her.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the medical team there,” he said.
“People were empathetic, understanding and professional, so we thought it would be a good place to raise money for.”
From 1 September, Peter will kayak from the start of the Murray River, located at Bringenbrong Bridge near Corryong, all the way to the South Australian border.
This trek will be the second kayaking journey he has undertaken.
“Myself and our youngest daughter, Georgia, first kayaked down the Murray River 15 years ago, with Helen acting as the support driver,” Peter said.
journey into a fundraiser for the Albury-Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.
“I’ve always had a hankering to go kayaking again.
“That’s how I got the idea to do it: I thought I’d turn this
The Wangaratta Area Suicide Prevention Trivia Night held on Saturday May 31st would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors.
• Win Sec Savings & Loans
• TravelManagers Sarah Nunn
• Bluestone Ridge (King Valley)
• Historic Wark Cottages
• Bridge Street Painters (Benalla)
• Sluga Gallery (Yackandandah)
• Truckline
• Harvey Norman (Wangaratta)
• Bi-Right Electrical
• Aroma Deli Café
• Repco (Wangaratta)
• Wang Lawn Mowers
• Big W (Wangaratta)
• Parklane Nursery
• Aussie Disposals (Wangaratta)
• Adventure Camping & Fishing
• Flynn's Inland & Surf Co
• Edgars Books and News
• Helen Haines
• Rock & Road Cycles
• Prouds The Jewellers
• Your Every Day Gourmet
• Spirited Party Shop
• Gabby Simmonds Jewellery
“This time, an old Air Force mate of mine Geoff Barton said he’d be the support driver and instead of my daughter, I will be co-paddling with our pet poodle, Maggie.
“The previous journey
started from Hume Weir and took about six weeks of rowing, so this trip will likely take 10 weeks or so.”
Peter and Maggie will aim to paddle approximately 2500 kilometres and ultimately raise $250,000 dollars for the cause.
Several local businesses and residents have already
contributed to the initial fundraising goal of $50,000, with less than $10,000 to go.
The Rotary Club of Mt Beauty and Bright Lions Club have both committed $1000 each to the cause.
“Everybody, the doctors, admin staff, nurses and orderlies at the cancer centre
do an amazing job but they need your help,” Peter said.
“All the money raised will go to new facilities, services and research.”
For more information and to make a tax-deductible donation, visit: https://give. awcancertrust.org.au/fundraisers/peterdixon.
• David Roberts Jewellers
• Flynn's of Wangaratta
• House of Tanti (Glenrowan)
• Donna Bella Lingerie
• Bunnings (Wangaratta)
• Quality Hotel Gateway (Wangaratta)
• Westend Cycles
• BFT (Wangaratta)
• Da Vinci Social Club
• Sam Miranda Wines
• Pfeiffer Wines
• Corio Waste Management
• North East Bearings
• Share Media
• Steers Co (Wangaratta)
• O'Brien Real Estate | Joyce
• Shanley Signs
• Wangaratta Chronicle
• Ace Radio
• Londrigan Finer Foods
• Total Outdoor Media
• Moyhu Hotel
• Jenvey Transport
Your support empowers us to drive initiatives that challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide in Wangaratta. Through your contributions, we are not only raising awareness but also taking meaningful steps toward preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being for all.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the following businesses, individuals and organisations who helped make our event a success: www.waspwangaratta.com.au | wasp@waspwangaratta.com.au
glass won’t belong in your mixed recycling bin. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge. Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin
THE BEST OF BRIGHT: Selina BlairHolt from the Bright Brewery said they pride themselves on boosting tourism with their Darker Days Festival during what can be a sleepier time of year.
PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE Bright Brewery is ready and rearing to host it’s annual Darker Days Festival, which kicks off today and runs throughout this weekend.
Ticketed brewery tours and tastings, a Karma Keg fundraiser and plenty of activities for friends and family - including a silent disco, face-painting, tarot-readings, tattoo station and much more - are all part of the fun festival.
“Darker Days is a great opportunity for us to showcase not just the beers we produce and are super proud of, but also to bring some really fun and interesting beers from around Australia and from afar to the North East,” Bright Brewery
head brewer, Lewis Kerr said.
“These are beers you won’t ever see any other day of the year.
“It’s an annual highlight for us to be able to enjoy these beers, as well as host an incredible festival in our small town.”
Saturday will see live music performances spanning 10 plus hours, headlined by Indie rock band ‘British India’ and supported by upand-coming Victorian band Hassall and Harrietville’s DJ Zabi.
There will be a curated selection of beers on tap, including festival-specific collaborations, from guest breweries including Boatrocker Brewing Co, Stomping Ground Brewing Co, Seeker Brewing and New Zealand’s Urbanaut Brewing Co.
“Darker Days is something we love to throw every year,” Selina Blair-Holt from Bright Brewery said.
“It’s an opportunity for our brewers to showcase some of the creative things they’ve been working on and for us to get the community involved, to celebrate great beer, listen to great music and have a party.
“As much as it is about our beers, it’s also about showcasing what Bright has to offer, with a number of local vendors, food trucks and other guest brewers and distillers at the festival.”
Local offerings from Bright’s wonderful Reed & Co and Sixpence Coffee, Yackandandah’s Backwoods Distilling and Wandiligong’s Night-
ingales Bros, as well as a food truck village, will offer warm and tasty meals and treats.
“The weather may be unpredictable, but thankfully we’ll have a big beautiful bonfire and delicious beers to keep us warm,” Selina said.
“We’ve planned a non-alcoholic bar, as well gluten free options for guests over the weekend.”
Sunday will feature a ‘Barker Days’ fundraiser and recovery session, hosted by DJ Matty O from ‘British India’ and Triple M’s ‘Homegrown’ with part proceeds going to RSPCA.
The festival is a cashless event, with further information and tickets available for purchase via: Darkerdays.com.au.
A SERIES of impactful events with a focus on mental health and wellness will kick off in Myrtleford this Saturday night.
Mental Wellbeing Week begins at the Ablett Pavilion with the highly anticipated Mental Wellbeing Dinner tomorrow evening, 21 June, following the Wodonga Raiders game.
The dinner will feature former Aussie Diamond netballer and AFLW Collingwood player Sharni Layton, who will share her inspiring journey through professional sports.
Myrtleford Football Netball Club wellbeing team chair, John Pryor said the team has been working on the message of destigmatising mental health issues and building resilience across all the community for the last five years.
“We started with our MFNC and built from there with a strong partnership with the local schools,” he said.
“From grade prep to Year 12, we’ve been delivering a consistent message to build mental health literacy with our young people.
“This year, the Rotary, Lions and RSL clubs of Myrtleford have been fantastic in supporting Mental Wellbeing Week and our other major supporter for the past five years, North East Civil Construction (NECC) has also done a fantastic job.”
As part of the week, Lance Picioane, an ex-AFL footballer, will speak to local schoolkids about mental fitness and battling mental health issues on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 June.
To book places at the Mental Wellbeing Dinner, visit: http://thq.fyi/se/ ZGnNP_M
For more information on all events and to book for the Community Wellness Workshop, visit: https://events. humanitix.com/wellness-workshopmyrtleford
RAINFALL over the past two weeks has done little to make up for the lack of water falling from the sky over the past 12 months, with a number of communities now been told to reduce their water use or face the very real prospect of forced water restrictions due to dwindling water storages.
North East Water (NEW) is urging residents and businesses in Myrtleford to continue to do what they can to reduce water use, especially on gardens and lawns, to help stave off any manda-
tory water restrictions.
NEW general manager of environment, systems and operations, John Day, said community efforts to reduce household water use over the past month - from 590 litres to 505 litres daily - was achieved on 19 of the past 28 days.
“While we’ve seen some reductions in water use, usage only really dropped after rainfall, which suggests most town water is used outdoors,” he said.
“Recent rainfall has provided some short-term relief and
slightly boosted our storage levels, however, this improvement is only temporary.
“Myrtleford’s water storage continues to be its lowest level on record, even lower than during the Millennium Drought.
“If current water use continues and we don’t receive significant winter rainfall, formal water restrictions may be necessary in the coming months.”
Rainfall in the past two weeks saw storage levels at Lake Buffalo - where Myrtleford sources its water - rise
from 12,200ML (52%) on June 7 up to 13,500ML (57.5%) on June 15.
The situation is even more dire at Euroa and Violet Town, with Goulburn Valley Water warning that stage two water restrictions - which have been in place in the towns since May - could increase to stage four as early as next month.
Water storages currently sit at 18 per cent, compared to 77 per cent at the same time last year.
GVW managing director Steve Capewell said despite re-
DINNER Plain’s popular Pea Shooter toboggan run opened for the winter season on the weekend, with new snowmaking services helping to bolster natural falls.
Sarah Nicholas, said by investing in this technology, Dinner Plain aims to attract more tourists and provide a dependable winter attraction that can be enjoyed by all.
Dr Peter Chu, vascular surgeon, is dedicated to providing effective and prompt treatment of circulatory and venous conditions to the Northeast region of Victoria. He has recently established The Melbourne Vascular Surgery & Vein Clinic, and can now, in conjunction with Melbourne Vascular Imaging, bring the latest minimally invasive or “walk-in walkout” treatment strategies for varicose veins, spider veins and other venous disorders to the Northeast region.
Alpine Shire Council, which manages the village and its facilities, said the addition of snow making services aims to ensure a consistent and enjoyable experience for visitors throughout the winter season, regardless of natural snowfall.
There is now a fee of $10 per day for the use of the toboggan run, which will support the operation and maintenance of the new snowmaking equipment.
“We are thrilled to offer snowmaking on the toboggan run throughout this year’s winter season,” she said.
“Tobogganing is the entry point into snowsports and we’re excited to help provide a fun experience and introduce more people to our incredible alpine environment.
SUPERFICIAL VENOUS REFLUX DISEASE IS PROGRESSIVE.
SYMPTOMS CAN WORSEN OVER TIME IF LEFT UNTREATED.
“This upgrade means more consistent and reliable snow conditions, allowing families to enjoy tobogganing.
Patients who suffer from superficial venous disease may present symptoms of:
The introduction of the snowmaking services is part of the Dinner Plain Activation Project - council’s broader commitment to enhancing the winter experience for both residents and visitors.
“The $10 fee is a small investment for a day full of fun and adventure on the slope.”
• Varicose veins • Swollen limbs
• Skin changes and ulcers
• Leg heaviness and fatigue • Pain
The Dinner Plain Activation Project was scoped and funded with support from the Victorian government’s Bushfire Recovery Regional Economic Stimulus and Resilience Fund.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr
cent water use reduction, storages continue to be impacted by the record-breaking stretch of low rainfall.
“If dry conditions continue, state four restrictions will be needed to further reduce pressure on drinking water supplies,” he said.
Rather than introducing Stage 3 restrictions, GVW is asking residents to further reduce their water use voluntarily, a decision that gives the community more options to reduce water use before stage four restric-
tions are put in place. “If we see a good result from the community response, we may be able to delay the implementation of stage four restrictions,” Dr Capewell said. The main differences between Stages 2 and 4 water restrictions relate to outdoor water use limitations - lawns and gardens cannot be watered at any time, pools and spas cannot be filled or topped up, and cleaning hard surfaces and washing vehicles is not allowed, unless necessary for health and safety reasons.
WORKS continue to progress at the Myrtleford Memorial Hall as upgrades to the facility enter the sixth week.
The 101-year-old building’s planned renovations include the construction of a new Visitor Information Centre, accessible amenities, improved stage access, a new automated accessible entrance with an entrance ramp and paved courtyard, thanks to the $1.2 million contract Alpine Shire Council awarded to Joss Facility Management Pty Ltd.
working on-site earlier this week were
Albury: The Gardens Medical Centre - 470 Wodonga Place, Albury NSW 2640 Wangaratta: Wangaratta Cardiology & Respiratory Centre 29 Clark Street, Wangaratta VIC 3767 Echuca: Echuca Consulting Suites 25 Francis Street, Echuca VIC 3564. ‘bulk billed vein assessments available’ Phone (03) 9348 9446 | Fax (03) 9329 3051 Email info@melbourneveincentre.com.au
www.corcoranparker.com.au
By CHRIS RILEY, MARQUE MOTORING
LAUNCHED by Hyundai in 2017, the second-generation Kona was revealed in December 2022.
It is available with petrol, mild hybrid, hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, while the earlier diesel engine option is no longer offered.
Unlike the first version, Hyundai claims second-generation Kona was designed first and foremost as a batteryelectric vehicle before it was then adapted for use as other variants.
Whichever way it swings, it has been designed to blend in with the current environment, with no discernible radiator grille regardless of what’s under the bonnet.
Still, accommodations must have been made during the design process which means some compromise.
In effect, there are three electric versions of this car: Kona Electric Standard Range ($54,000), Kona Electric Extended Range ($58,000) and Kona Electric Premium Extended Range ($68,000), all of them front-wheel drive.
The basic version comes with a 99kW electric motor and 48 kWh battery, with a range of 370km.
The extended range has a 150kW motor, larger 64kWh battery and range of 505km.
Premium extended range with the 150kW motor and larger 64kWh battery as standard has a range of 444km, due to the fact it has larger 19-inch wheels.
You can’t get the Standard Range in premium trim.
The sporty N Line option pack brings the price of the basic version to $62,000 and the premium to $71,000.
Any colour other than white or green adds $595.
The optional Meta blue of our car appears mauve in some light.
N Line includes body-coloured cladding, exclusive bumpers, skid plates and side effects, wing-type rear spoiler, 19-inch alloy wheels and N Line badges/wheel centres.
Our test vehicle was the top of the line Kona Electric premium with 19-inch wheels, premium paint and optional interior trim, priced at $68,890 plus on-road costs.
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, DRLs and tail lights, dual-zone climate control, interior Vehicle To Load (V2L) power outlet, heat pump cabin heating, battery conditioning and a wireless smartphone charger.
On another note, Kona Electric is the first EV in its segment to come standard with a spare tyre, which is comforting when it comes to longer journeys.
Kona Electric is covered by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, with a separate
MODEL LINE-UP:
KONA ELECTRIC STANDARD RANGE: $54,000
KONA ELECTRIC EXTENDED RANGE: $58,000
KONA ELECTRIC PREMIUM EXTENDED RANGE: $68,000
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your Hyundai local dealer for driveaway pricing.
eight-year/160,000km warranty on the battery. Service is due every 24 months or 30,000km.
Despite an extensive list of active safety and driver assistance features, Kona only scores four stars for safety. It falls short in two key areas: safety assist and vulnerable road user protection, achieving only an adequate result in the performance of its autonomous emergency braking system in tests with pedestrians and cyclists.
Second generation Kona Electric is bigger and roomier, 18cm longer with a 6cm longer wheelbase than its predecessor.
This means a bigger boot and more legroom, with 7.7cm more legroom and 1.5cm more headroom in the back.
Seating is comfortable without being inviting and perhaps a bit narrower than before.
Heating comes from an energy-saving heat pump, with physical temperature controls below the touch screen.
Up front, you get two retractable cup holders, a 1.5-litre drink bottle holder in each door and generous centre console storage.
In the back, there’s 700ml bottle holders in each door and a fold-down centre armrest with two cup holders.
The luggage area has grown by 33 litres to 407 litres, with a 27-litre plastic frunk up front which is handy for stashing charge cables.
Never quite rising above its humble origins, hard plastic abounds in the cabin, disguised by soft touch material in such places as the
Lifting the tailgate exposes a luggage area that looks oh-soaverage in generic grey felt.
The look is distinctive with a long thin light bar that spans the breadth of the bonnet, matched by a tail light strip at the rear, which together give the car a space-aged appearance.
There are four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow˗plus iPedal one-pedal driving (no need to brake separately).
With 395Nm of torque, the first generation could accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds.
Heavier and with less torque, this one does it in a slower 7.9 seconds.
Steering wheel mounted paddles can be used to control the level of regenerative braking (lesser or greater brake drag).
There’s also a smart mode.
With a DC fast charger, Hyundai claims 10-80 per cent charging can be achieved in 41 minutes, compared to 18 minutes for some of its 800volt models.
SUMMING UP
Kona Electric is a well-engineered, well equipped small crossover style wagon that doesn’t cut many corners.
But the result of this strategy is an unexpectedly high price tag, perhaps too high. Tick all the boxes and the Kona is just over $77,000 by the time you put it on the road. And that’s before you start thinking about installing a Wallbox at home which is really the only practical solution to charging. It means you won’t be constantly worrying about when and where you can charge your shiny new toy. At this point, thoughts will probably turn to cheaper Chinese alternatives.
Kona’s Main rival is the BYD Atto 3 which tops out at $47,499 plus on-roads. Over to you.
RATINGS:
Looks: 7
Performance: 7
Safety: 7
Thirst: 7
Practicality: 7.5
Comfort: 7
Tech: 7.5
Value: 6
Overall: 7
SPECIFICATIONS
(Hyundai Kona Electric Premium Extended Range, 150kW single electric motor, singlespeed auto, RWD SUV)
STANDARD WARRANTY
Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty
Separate eightyear/160,000km warranty on the battery
WITH an open home scheduled this Saturday 9:30am-10am, 70 Wenhams Lane is nestled in the sought-after and well established Wenhams Lane.
This neatly presented 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick veneer home offers spacious, comfortable living on a 1027m2 block.
Designed for versatile living and effortless entertaining, the home offers an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, plus an additional lounge.
A bonus is the built-in bar, with space for a bar fridge - ideal for the home entertainer.
The kitchen features double sink overlooking the rear yard, dishwasher, wall oven and grill, along with electric cooktop.
Storage is well taken care of with plenty of pantry space and a breakfast bar completes the space.
The main bedroom features a bay window, walk-in robe and ensuite.
Additional three bedrooms all include built-in robes with great storage shelving, providing the option for home office if required.
Main bathroom boasts a spa bath, shower and the toilet is separate for convenience.
Year-round comfort is assured with ducted gas heating and evaporative cooling throughout, along with additional gas heater in living/dining area.
Step outside to a covered alfresco area overlooking a beautifully manicured backyard - ideal for relaxing or
hosting guests.
A standout feature is the 18m x 7.5m shed/workshop, complete with 3.2m high clearance, power, water and a toilet, perfect for tradies, hobbyists, or additional storage for the boat, van and more.
Right of way access allows for direct side access to the yard and shed.
Additional notable features include a home security system that is also linked to the shed, generous solar system, quality window furnishings and so much more.
Conveniently located close to Cathedral College, local playground, scenic walking tracks and about a five minute drive to the CBD, this property offers a complete package of lifestyle
LOCATED in the heart of the Tarrawingee township and only 15 mins drive to Wangaratta, this immaculately presented property is surrounded by over an acre of well-manicured, lush gardens.
Brick veneer home is a solid built 70s residence in fantastic condition.
Home consists of four bedrooms, with the master featuring a generous dressing room with built-in robes.
Ensuite includes shower, toilet and large vanity.
Three additional bedrooms are all large in size, with two of them fitted with builtin-robes.
The kitchen and meals area are flooded with natural light thanks to the large windows and doors.
The lounge is separate and is complimented by a brick feature wall and large doors opening onto the outdoor entertaining area.
There is a split system for heating and cooling, along with gas ducted heating and in wall air conditioner.
| 5211m2 Location | 1147 Great Alpine Road, Tarrawingee
The large undercover outdoor area is perfect for entertaining guests, along with the large inground concrete, self cleaning pool with mineral water.
Further shedding is impressive with machinery/workshop shed (17.7m X 7.4m).
Water for the residence is via rainwater tanks, externally the house has a bore for garden and lawn use and features inground sprinkler system.
A solar system helps keep electricity bills to a minimum.
If you are currently looking for a one acre property, with a solid house, pool, shedding and enviable gardens then look no further - Call Hugh Amery today on 0487 777 311.
This month's Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday 24 June at 3:00 pm at Council Chambers in the Government Centre 62-68 Ovens Street. You have the option to attend in person or watch the meeting live on YouTube. The agenda can be accessed on our website. Please submit your questions via email to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au by 10:00 am on the meeting day or ask them in person during the session. Please contact Customer Service if you have accessibility requirements to attend in person. For further details, visit our website www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Council-meetings
WSAC will host a Big Freeze event to support FightMND, on Sunday 22 June from 1pm. The community is invited to brave the cold and plunge into the outdoor pool, in support of groundbreaking research for Motor Neurone Disease. For more information and to register visit www.wsac.vic.gov.au
On 16 June 2025 Council Officers impounded around 45 mixed breed sheep from the Springhurst area. Council requests the owner to contact Customer Service to claim the sheep.
T 17238 Community Services Property Maintenance
Seeking suppliers to deliver services such as lawn mowing, safety tasks, heavy cleaning, and minor home maintenance for clients under the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
Tender closes at 12.00pm Wednesday 25 June 2025
T33047 Rowan Street Pedestrian Bridge
Tender closes at 2pm on Wednesday 9 July 2025
Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Councils website.
The Revenue & Rating Plan is a four-year plan that outlines Council’s process on how revenues are calculated and collected and is a requirement of the Local Government Act 2020. The Plan was adopted at the 27 May Council meeting and is now available to download. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Public-notices/ Revenue-and-Rating-Plan-2025-29-Adopted
If you’re a farmer affected by drought, you’re not alone. The Victorian Government has announced a new and expanded Drought Support Package in response to deteriorating seasonal conditions across the state. Find out what support is available and how to access it www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Drought
The MEMPC are seeking expressions of interest from community members passionate about community safety and resilience. As part of the MEMPC you will help your community mitigate, plan for, and respond to an emergency.
Applications close 5pm Monday 1 July 2025. Expressions of interest can be submitted online https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/MEMP, emailed to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or posted to: Wangaratta MEMPC Chair, Rural City of Wangaratta, PO Box 238, Wangaratta VIC 3676.
Enjoy a free night of family fun and community spirit with the Community Cinema series. Held across rural locations including halls, schools and reserves. Upcoming events:
Saturday 21 June @ Greta Rec Reserve, from 6pm
Friday 27 June @ Edi Upper Hall, from 6pm
Friday 4 July @ Moyhu Soldiers Memorial Hall, from 4.30pm
Download the Hello Winter brochure with full list of cinema events here: https://bit.ly/3ZtrJxD
Join a vibrant group who strive to actively participate in shaping the future of the Rural City of Wangaratta. Appointments to the Committee are for 3 years and are selected using an established skills matrix.
Nomination forms and details can be found:
• online www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/ Committees/Arts-and-Culture-Advisory-Committee
• via customer service
• mail Nominations to: Chief Executive Officer, Rural City of Wangaratta, PO Box 238, Wangaratta, VIC 3676
• for more information contact 5722 0888 or council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au
Nominations close 4pm Thursday 26 June 2025
Council reminds drivers that the city has transitioned to App-only paid parking in the Wangaratta CBD. EasyPark representatives will be available at the Community Kiosk on Reid St and can help with downloading and using the App, every Thursday & Friday in June from 10.00 am – 2.00 pm. For more information: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Services/Parking
For
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
AGM NOTICE
Wangaratta & District Mens Shed Inc. AGM will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 2pm at the Mens Shed, Shanley Street, Wangaratta.
We would like to express our appreciation to those who came to our Kransky Night on Friday, June 13. We would also like to apologise to those who had to wait, and ask for those who did not receive their order to pop in and a refund will be issued.
Thank you, The team at Pedal Slowly Brewhouse
Tarrawingee Golf Club Inc.
A Special General Meeting will be held at the Club Rooms on Thursday, June 26 at 7.30pm, to discuss the future of the Club.
All members are encouraged to attend.
TO the lady who came to Australia, aged 6, from Derbyshire U.K. Please phone 5722 3758.
MOVING out sale, everything must go, whitegoods,furniture, tools (inc pwr), pot plants, books, guitars, everything must go, Sunday, June 22, 8am, 1974 Edi-Cheshunt Rd, Chesthunt.
CARPENTER / BUILDER, taking jobs and quotes, no job too small or too big, versatile tradesman happy to meet on site and liaise with customers. Ph 0498 168 787.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
FRANKS DOG
Wangaratta Equine
TRAINING, behavioral solutions, qualified, experienced, affordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610
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.
Saturday 28th June 1651 Dookie Road, Devenish
• Welding
• Bee boxes, honey extractors
• Tools
• Lathe
• Antiques
• Mowing
• 2 paddock mate horses
• Farming equipment
• Boats/ caravans/ camping buses
• Car hoist/crane
• Car/truck items
• Household items
• Plus many more!
Accept cash and Pay ID.
Buyer responsible for locating/ removing items, all sales final and sold as-is
is looking for a suitably experienced person for the following position:
Classroom Teachers:
Automotive/Building and Construction (Full-Time)
Classroom Teacher - Generalist (Full-Time)
Benalla FLC believes that every student has a right to an education. Benalla FLC provides educational opportunities for young people who have disengaged from mainstream education.
We are looking for a teacher who is driven, flexible and truly passionate about giving ALL students access to education.
For full Position Description and
• Excellent position to build a public service career
• Full-time VPS Grade 3 role earning $79,122 – $96,073 + super
• If you are organised, good with people and confident with computer-based work, apply now!
Join Corrections Victoria, part of the Department of Justice and Community Safety. Our mission is to build a safer and smarter corrections system in our state.
Beechworth Correctional Centre is a minimum-security facility focused on preparing individuals for reintegration into the community through employment, education and rehabilitation programs.
About the role
As the executive and operational services supervisor, you will provide high-level executive support to the general manager and key committees.
Responsibilities include:
• managing confidential correspondence and executive support
• liaising with senior staff, departments, agencies and community groups
• preparing briefings, discussion papers, FOI responses and ministerial replies.
About you
As our ideal candidate, you will have excellent computer literacy, strong inter personal skills and sound judgment to interpret or adapt guidelines.
Experience in executive support and a Certificate III in Business Administration is highly regarded but not required.
Apply now at careers.vic.gov.au
Applications close Tuesday 24 June 2025
An opportunity has arisen to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties across our group.
Skills and Experience
• Prior experience in an administration position
• Ability to handle debtor/creditor queries
• Solid computer skills, including experience with Excel and Word
• Accurate data entry and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Exceptional customer service
• The ability to work in a team-based environment
• Proven time-management skills and ability to prioritise urgent work
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.
Applications should be forwarded to: Yvonne Cypser
Administration/Finance Manager ycypser@nemedia.com.au
2016 Honda Jazz VTI-S, 54,500km, cruise control, bluetooth, reverse camera, aircon, 12 months registration (1MK4SY), RWC, new tyres, full-service history, one owner, excellent condition $15,000. Please call Brendan 0494 193 965.
TOYOTA Corolla Ultima model 2003, auto, remote locking, front airbags, 268,000km, new brake pads, one owner, RWC, (1AV4AP), $3800, located Porepunkah. Ph 0428 575 225.
DESIGNER van, built 2013, double axle, new tyres and brakes, toilet and shower combined, aircon, single beds, double water tanks, 90L fridge, excellent condition, $44,000 ONO. Ph 0460 582 811.
DRY SPLIT FIREWOOD Quality boxwood and gum available now, $170 per mete, dry, split, ready to burn, fast delivery available. Call G & JTree Services on 0474107631 FREE Range Hens,
GALAXY SOUTHERN CROSS SERIES 4
17.6ft, pop up, excellent condition, no shower or toilet, double bed, diesel heater, full annex, tv and many extras available, full reg and 12 months insurance included
Ph 0438 003 652 $20,000 ONO
Jacqui Farrell
Happy 80th birthday Mum and Nana. Have a wonderful day.
~ Love Ken, Nicole, Trent and families.
LILLIS (nee Spink), Joan Rosemary. 9/9/1930 – 15/6/2025 Passed away peacefully at Rangeview Private Nursing Home, Wangaratta.
Dearly loved wife of Jack (dec).
Loving Mum of Peter, Ruth, Kathy and their partners.
Adored Grandma of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. God has you in His keeping,
CONSTABLE, Sheree Heather.
2/11/1957 – 11/6/2025
I sadly share that my much loved and admired younger sister Sheree and loved sister-in-law of Allan has left this world and along with it took a large piece of our hearts. Your spirit will continue to walk by my side everyday as you did in this life. Loving me, supporting me in good times and bad and always happy and excited for my adventures and compassionate in my sorrows.
Every time I look into the eyes of your beautiful children Sharna, Travis and Taryn and cuddle anyone of your six adorable grandchildren whom you were so proud of and loved so dearly, you will be right back here with me, they are all a part of you You weren’t just my sister you were my best friend. Memories fade over time, but you are a part of me that will last for the rest of my life until we are reunited.
I find solace in knowing you are resting in heavenly peace.
~ Love always from your big sister Lareen.
CONSTABLE, Sheree.
In loving memory of my treasured sister and friend, Sheree. Loved sister-in-law of Eric and beloved
Aunty Sheree of Alastair and Stephanie. Beloved second daughter of Jack and Heather Gibson (both dec).
Taken from our lives far too soon. You will live on in our hearts and memories as long as we live. Our family memories will always remain precious.
Your kind, beautiful soul lives on in Sharna, Travis and Taryn and your 6 grandbabies.
~ Love always from your little sister Dayle.
The funeral service for Mrs Joan Lillis will be held in St Paul’s Anglican Church, Clyde Street, Myrtleford on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 1.30pm. Burial will follow at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery. Joan’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Sheree Constable will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Friday, June 27, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. Private cremation will follow the service. Pleasebringacutflower toplaceonSheree’scoffin.
~ An online donation made in memory of Sheree to either: Northeast Health ICU via https://givenow.com.au/nhw MS Australia via https://www.msaustralia.org.au/donate/ MND Australia via https://www.mndaustralia.org.au/donate would be appreciated.
~ Sheree’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
Mason Park Funerals
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
DYER, Herbert “Bert”. June 21, 2014 RIP
It’s now 11 years since you have gone, I am still missing you “Skipper”. When I first saw you, you just smiled, when you looked at me you said that’s the girl for me to love always. You were someone special and Lynette too RIP. You will not be forgotten as we all thought the world of you. Say hi to Lynette, Rae and Brenda. ~ Love Margaret; David, Jan and family. XOXO
MONTGOMERY, Jason “Squeek” 7/9/1988 – 19/6/2010
15 years have passed. Jase, not a day goes by that we don’t stop missing you.
We keep the memories we have close to our hearts – keeps us strong. Loving you always. ~Mum, Dad and Stace.
PORTER, Lynne Maree. 20/1/1957 – 22/6/2022
Our precious girl. How we love you. So sadly missed. ~ Mum, Dad and extended family.
For more information on our special discounted subscription rates and to purchase a digital subscription visit wangaratta chronicle.com.au and select the subscribe tab.
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to junior netball on Saturday to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
Saturday, 14 June
Ladies’ Stableford
A grade winner: Di Murphy 35. B grade winner: Carolyn Jeffery 33.
Ball winners: Leeanne Carmody 31, Judy Fogarty 30, Yogie Naidoo C/B 29.
NTPs - 4th: Ali Comensoli, 8th: Caroyln Jeffery, 13th: Carolyn Jeffery, 17th: Val Ellis.
Men’s Stableford, second round of Captains Trophy
A grade winner: J Marjanovic Jnr 39. B grade winner: Geoff Nicholson C/B Glenn Hunt 34. C grade winner: Alan White 35. D grade winner: John Johnstone 34. Ball winners: Allen Bastin 37, Glenn O’Connell 37, Robert Voss 36, Darren Jones 35, Glenn Hunt 34, Jacob Schonafinger 34, Jack Stamp 34, Daniel Fogarty 33, Brian Wallace 33, Trevor Nippress 33, Terry Docherty 33, Jeffery Elliott 33.
NTPs - 4th: L Naidoo, 8th: G Walder, 13th: J Marjanovic, 17th: W Hibberson.
Wednesday, 18 June
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Keith Moorhead 35. B Grade winner: Peter Ford 33. C Grade winner: Terry Docherty 36 C/B.
Ball winners: Ray Hyland, Bernie Grealy, Glenn O’Connell, Brian Wallace, Steve Fisher, Neville Hogan.
NTPs - 4th: Ray Hyland, 8th: K Moorhead, 13th: Ian Weideman, 17th: P Ernst.
Men’s 9 hole stableford Winner: Jim Darcy 17. Ball winners: Peter Walker 16, Chris O’Keeffe 15, Tony Kosch 15.
NTPs - 13th: M Dean, 17th: R Smith.
Thursday, 19 June
Ladies’ 18 hole stableford
Winner: Di Murphy 39. Ball winners: Liane Graham 37.
NTPs - 8th: Sheree Coghill, 13th: Joy Hester.
WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending 15 June
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THIS weekend sees Wangaratta City FC return to their home ground for what should be some incredible matches in the division one men’s and women’s competition.
The Devils host Wodonga Heart, and with both of Wangaratta’s senior sides in a precarious position in relation to their finals aspirations, time is running out to bank the points.
It will be a tough one for the senior women, who will look to take their second win of the season over the sixth-placed Heart.
Last time they took to the pitch was back in round eight at the start of May, which saw the Lady Devils smashed 0-5.
Senior women’s coach Raul Pahina acknowledged the challenge Heart presented, but backed his team in to perform.
“Heart will be a very tough game, they
were quite physical last time we played them, and were a lot faster than us,” he said.
“We’re also missing a key player in Hannah Swindley this weekend, which adds to the challenge, so we’ll have to bring our best to contest them.”
The division one women’s match commences from 11.20am this Sunday, June 22 at South Wangaratta Recreation Reserve.
Meanwhile, the senior men’s team are prepping for a match which has serious implications for the back end of their season.
The Devils sit in the eight heading into round 14, while Heart sit on the bottom of the ladder following Twin City Wanderers pulling out of the senior competition.
They’ll be favourites going into the match, and will have momentum on their side after a 4-2 triumph over Melrose FC last weekend.
The senior men take to the park from 3pm on Sunday.
Monday, 9 June
King’s Birthday Medley
18 Hole Stableford Event
Winners: Christopher Martens 38 points. Runners Up: Jack Dean 35 points.
Ball Winners: Jarred Clark. 9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Wade Goodwin 16 points. Runner Up: Peter King 13 points C/B.
Tuesday, 10 June
Women’s Monthly Medal
18 Hole Stroke Event
Winner: Dona Harper 72 nett. Runner Up: Glenda Dodson 76 nett C/B.
Ball Winners: Carol Coghill, Jill Halbwidl, Janette Collier, Carolyn Sullivan.
NTPs - 11th: Glenda Dodson, 13th: Glenda Dodson.
Wednesday 11, June
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Andrew Storer 37 points. Runner Up: Matthew Walsh 36 points.
Ball Winners: Gregory Sullivan, Phillip Winnell, Max Webster, Steve Baertschiger, Ray Hutton, Dean Campagna.
NTPs – 2nd: Michael Cordier, 4th: Kurt Shubert, 7th: Dean Campagna, 16th: Ray Hutton, 18th: Max Webster. 9 Hole Stableford Event Winner: Leonard Chandler 19 points. Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 18 points.
Ball Winners: Graeme Arnold.
Thursday, 12th June
Women’s 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Glenda Dodson 31 points. Runner Up: Sue McCall 30 points C/B.
NTPs - 2nd: Dawn Fleet. Saturday, 14 June
TARRA GOLF CLUB
THE members played a Stableford event for the Secretary’s Trophy and it was won by Pete Nolan with 32pts.
The runners up were Lindsay Steer and Ken Miller with 31pts.
Nearest the pin on the eighth was Pete Nolan.
Golf to be played on Saturday, 21 June will be a stableford event, Captain vs President.
Ladies are definitely welcome to also join the members for a day’s golf. It will be an 11.30am roll up for a 12pm hit-off.
New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee club with first year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees, this can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.
WANG TABLE TENNIS
Winter Comp, round 2 –Wednesday, 11 June
This week saw many exciting matches with the outcome uncertain in an evenly matched competition.
A Grade
N.E. Ag & Industrial (Tom Brown, Kim Brown) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Markus Angehrn, Nathan Vincent) - final rubber score 3/2.
Match results: T Brown def M Angehrn 4/3, N Vincent def K Brown 4/0, K Brown def M Angehrn 4/1, T Brown def N Vincent 4/3. Doubles: M Angehrn & N Vincent def T & K Brown 4/3. Somerset Communications (Robert Voss, Ash Wurtz) def Appin Park Store (John Wright, Will Tong) 3/2.
Match results: J Wright def R Voss 4/2, Ash Wurtz def W Tong 4/1, J Wright def A Wurtz 4/3, R Voss def W Tong 4/1. Doubles: R Voss & Ash Wurtz def J Wright & W Tong 4/0.
B Grade
Blue Raven (Michael Bellingham, Phil Fitzgerald) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (Stephen Picken, Andrew Holmes) final rubber score 3/2.
Match results: M Bellingham def S Picken 4/1, P Fitzgerald def A Holmes 4/3, S Picken def P Fitzgerald 4/1, M Bellingham def A Holmes 4/0. Doubles: S Picken & A Holmes def M Bellingham & P Fitzgerald 4/2.
Boralma Berkshire (Tim Oliver, Klaus Kazenwadel) def Auto 8 (Seth Knox, Ron Divinagracia) final rubber score 3/2.
Match results: S Knox def K Kazenwadel 4/0, T Oliver def R Divinagracia 4/3, T Oliver def S Knox 4/3, R Divinagracia def K Kazenwadel 4/2. Doubles: T Oliver & K Kazenwadel def S Knox & R Divinagracia 4/2.
Somerset Comms (John Bajada, Sienna Bajada) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (Aaron Plum, Ted Tatulaschwili) final rubber score 3/2.
Match results: J Bajada def A Plum 4/1, E Tatulaschwili def S Bajada 4/2, J Bajada def E Tatulaschwili 4/1, A Plum def S Bajada 4/3. Doubles: J & S Bajada def A Plum & E Tatulaschwili 4/1.
C Grade Auto 8 (Tim Loffler, Josh Loffler) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (Mat Curran, James Young) final rubber score 3/2.
Match results M Curran def T Loffler 4/1, J Loffler def J Young 4/3, T Loffler def J Young 4/3, M Curran def J Loffler 4/1. Doubles: T & J Loffler def M Curran & J Young 4/1.
NVC (Stephen Alger, Renee McCarthy) def Boralma Berkshire (Jesse O’Brien, Jesse Hughes) final rubber score 3/2.
Match results: J O’Brien def S Alger 4/1, R McCarthy def J Hughes 4/0, R McCarthy def J O’Brien 4/0, S Alger def J Hughes 4/0. Doubles: J Hughes & J O’Brien def R McCarthy & S Alger 4/2.
Competition will be on again next Wednesday evening at the Showgrounds venue.
The venue is also open Monday and Thursday mornings for Keenagers, and Tuesday morning for social table tennis.
Enquiries: Tom Brown (WTTA president) 0429 809 927.
Results for Monday, 16 June are as follows: Cheryle Beckley and Robyn Muller d Elise Downes and Bronwyn Townsend 7/4, Gabi Heywood and Terry Wilson d Maureen O’Keefe
and Dawn Wind 7/5, Janet Kelly and Margaret Bennett d Nathan Reynolds and Gavan Kelly 6/3.
On Wednesday, new member Lyn Wright ran a hoop on an angle from 17 yards.
Last Tuesday, the North Eastern District Croquet Association held it’s AGM at Wangaratta with Maurice Cevaal-Hewitt continuing as President, Bunty Clarke from Howlong club taking on the role of secretary, Rod Bensley continuing as treasurer and Sue Wearne filling the vice president role.
Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
Wednesday, 11 June - Salisbury Falls, Mount Warby and Wenham’s Camp.
A cool weather forecast didn’t deter an enthusiastic group of 16 walkers who presented for a midweek walk in the Warby Ovens National Park.
Beginning at the start of the Salisbury Falls Walk, we would walk to the top of the falls, proceed onto Mount Warby and lunch at Wenham’s Camp, before returning via the Alpine Views track and back to the start.
It’s estimated to take about five hours to complete the 11km - I have walked the Salisbury Falls Track numerous times but never seen the falls in all its glory.
After crossing the bridge located at the top of the falls we continued following the creek, consisting of water holes here and there, before crossing it again and heading towards the Boilerwood Track junction.
After a satisfying break, it was just a short walk before we turned right onto a bush
track which leads towards Mount Warby, where we had another short break near the ever-growing cairn and an opportunity for a group photo.
From here it was a short walk into Wenham’s Camp. At this stage my GPS had a distance of 5.69km being completed, and although the time was only 11.20am, it was decided that this was the best place for lunch with numerous facilities being available. After lunch we returned to Mount Warby and down towards the Alpine Views Track.
After reaching the Boilerwood Track we walked towards Salisbury Falls junction and returned via the way we came.
Along this section of trail I spotted a couple of Rosellas and smaller birds, which for much of the day had been absent from other areas of the park.
Coming Events
Saturday, 21 June - Sugarloaf Walk, Woolshed Valley. Lesley - 0439 776 687.
A medium walk of approximately 9km, on fire trails in the Woolshed Valley, with a great view from Mount Sugarloaf in Chiltern-Mount Pilot NP.
The track is steep, and a bit washed out in parts.
Sunday, 6 July - Mount Porepunkah from One Mile Creek side. Marita - 0427 521 122.
Options of easy (9km), medium (12km), and hard (17km) walks along single lane bush road, which comes from One Mile Creek Road and ascending to Mount Porepunkah.
There is ascent of about 350m (easy), 500m (medium), and 700m (hard). But there are no steep sections, just a steady ascent.
The road is lightly shaded by trees, and there are views of Mount Buffalo along the way.
From the summit, there are 360-degree views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
THE words of the Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons song “Oh What a Night” rang true when 28 enthusiasts turned up for Oxley Social Table Tennis on Monday evening.
In an entertaining contest ‘Doc’ Martin Butcher teamed up with Hugh Spring to take on livewire Millie Bosley and indefatigable Susan Bull.
With Millie’s recent growth spurt she and Susan proved to be a force to be reckoned with, however, Martin and Hugh proved no pushovers to finally sneak home by three points.
It was game on when Steve Van Der Poel and Manni Poulos faced Neil ‘surge on’ Spurgeon and the sleeveless Adrian Brunken in a tenacious display.
While Steve and Manni held a commanding lead for much of the contest, Neil and Adrian gradually put their game together resulting in them delivering a surge to victory in a tie-breaker.
In the family affair game there was no love lost when Don and Janet Heath took on Alison and Graham Stephens in a show of friendly fire and fury.
The pairs worked hand in glove to capture every point until finally the match ended with scores reading love all.
Small in stature but big on game, Harriet Day and her dad Peter formulated a plan to test the mettle of Mick Gervasoni and the young big hearted Ryan Van Der Poel.
From the first point each of the four players refused to throw the towel in, however, all good things must come to an end as did this with a win all=round.
After each had played many games, Clive Brooker and Kate Cole challenged
Pete Spring and Neil brock to catch us if you can.
And from the word go it was on as scores ebbed and flowed in a feast of fun before Kate and Clive snuck home by two points.
The unstoppable Sharene Gervasoni paired up with ‘up and Adam’ Bosley to take on new boy Jacob Hardiman and multi-craftswoman Phoebe Morgan in high-flying fashion.
Each pair combined well and provided onlookers with plenty of amusement until Sharene belted down and unreturnable to give her and
Adam a narrow victory.
Well but worn well after endless games Debbie Brunken and Paul Lawrence lined up against June Uebergang and Richard Morgan in a game of ups and downs.
While holding an early lead Debbie and Paul seemed to have their hands on the trophy as Richard’s irresistible force was impaired by immovable object Joan, until the latter finally got their act together to come home with the bacon.
Following another night of physical and social enjoyment everyone gathered for
a cuppa and supper when June was treated to a surprise birthday cake and a rousing happy birthday for which she was extremely grateful. There won’t be any Oxley Social Table Tennis next Monday, 23 June due to preparation for the Oxley Shire Hall 150th birthday celebration the following weekend. Games will resume on Monday, 30 June at 7pm when adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in.
BYO bat, $2 entry fee and plate to share.
UNDER 12 BOYS
THE NGI Group under 12 boys played a very close and intense game against Wodonga on Saturday, 14 June.
The boys showed strong confidence in their passing, with some impressive ball movement and dribbling coming from the backline.
Shoutouts to Cooper Drage, Ethan Parkinson, Lewis and Miles Henderson, and Spencer Jackson for their hard work and teamwork in defence. Hugh Barnden was outstanding in goals, making some great saves and standing strong despite the pressure.
While the final score was a 9-0 loss, the effort and spirit from the team were something to be proud of.
UNDER 12 GIRLS
The NGI Group under 12 girls faced off against the Wodonga Maroon team in Wangaratta on Saturday.
From the very first touch of the ball, the young Dragon girls showcased their skills.
Elsie Cunneen expertly delivered the ball wide to Stella Grotegoed, creating numerous attacking opportunities in the circle for the Dragons.
Maddy Benton, Lilly Barrett, and Pippa Reilly tirelessly worked hard to find the net but narrowly missing.
Leriah Hallihan and Amelie Reilly connected well in the midfield, consistently applying pressure on Wodonga.
The Dragons dominated 90 percent of the play, but unfortunately, Wodonga managed to score from a quick breakaway to win 1-0.
UNDER 14 BOYS
The under 14 boys had another very icy start at 8.20am against Wodonga.
The boys were missing two of
their senior players and yet produced some of their best hockey of the season.
Hugh Barnden filled in as goalkeeper, Leo Fidge was again solid on the ball, and Hunter Ross played his best game of the season.
Other great contributors included Lewis and Miles Henderson, Henry Lloyd, Alex Rymill, Chris Munzel, Cooper Drage, Spencer Jackson, Will Reilly, Harry Biglin, Harvey and Arlo Rivett.
The Dragons scored their first goal of the season when Harvey Rivett took the ball from the back half and ran all the way into the forward line, making a great pass to Lewis Henderson who converted the goal.
Wodonga attacked consistently throughout the game, and finished in front 13-1.
The Foot Centre under 14 Dragon girls faced off against Wodonga.
The girls dominated possession in the first half - Caitlyn Barnden enjoyed a rare outing on the field after playing as goalkeeper and worked tirelessly to set up many attacks.
Despite having the majority of the possession, the girls couldn’t
find a goal.
Greta Le and Charlotte Van Der Zalm continued to set up many attacking forays in the second half but unfortunately, Wodonga made the most of their chances scoring two goals in the second half.
The final scoreline was 2-0 - the Dragon girls are doing a lot right and with continued effort, another win is not too far away.
UNDER 16 GIRLS
It was action on Friday night under lights in Albury, with their combined Dragons/United under 16 girls playing against the Falcons.
The first half saw the girls with most of the possession during play, although they were unable to find the back of the net, whereas Falcons had and led 2-0 going into the break.
The second half saw Sophie Shallue, Amelia McAliece and Sarah Rhodes defending attacks from the Falcons and creating turnovers which saw them level at 3-3 just after the start of the fourth quarter.
A sneaky breakaway by Falcons saw them score with four minutes to go.
The girls didn’t give up and they were awarded a short corner which was played out after the final siren.
The girls managed to keep the ball alive and after many attempts
were able to force a penalty stroke which was converted to end the game a draw 4-4.
DIVISION THREE WOMEN
In what proved to be a thrilling and tightly contested match, the West End Cycles division three women took on Wodonga Maroon.
Right from the first whistle, the pace was high and the energy electric.
The defensive unit, led by Charlotte Bongers, Mim Franzi, Susie Rudd, and Gemma Howe, put on a solid display of dribbling, composure under pressure, and intelligent ball movement.
The forward line kept the pressure on throughout the game, with standout contributions from Amelia Bock, Christy Christie, Hannah Lindsay, Jamelee Sexton, and Kylie Robertson.
The game really came alive when Gemma Howe broke the deadlock with the first goal.
In the final quarter, Amelia Bock sealed the deal with a well-earned goal, securing a hard-fought draw, 2-2.
DIVISION THREE MEN
The SF Builders division three men’s team travelled up the highway to Albury to take on the Magpies on Saturday afternoon.
With illness hitting the club hard and a couple of players unavailable, it was a somewhat understrength team that played.
Magpies got the jump on the Dragons with a couple of early goals in the first quarter but after that the Dragons settled down controlling the ball.
Aaron Rhodes, Andrew Groves, Thomas Wright and Julian Taylor were able to get the ball into the right spots, but unfortunately were unable to get the ball past the Magpies goalie.
The midfield of Stewart Kerr, Michael Wheeler and Cam Gillies put in an enormous effort.
The back line of David McIntyre, Wes Samson, Atticus Thomson, Caleb Gillies and Anthony Couche, along with goalie Michael McMurrie, were kept busy all game and ultimately the Dragons went down 4-1 with Andrew Groves scoring their only goal.
This week the Dragons are at home again to take on United.
Falcons Orange and the Workfit Northeast Physiotherapy division two Wangaratta men played in a cold and wet Sunday game at Cathedral College.
The Dragons made a great start in the first quarter and Cam Leatham made a quick attack on the Falcons goal but the score remained 0-0 at quarter time.
The Falcons came back in the second quarter and were 2–0 up by half-time.
The Falcons played a strong attacking third quarter but strong defensive of Alex Doig and Xavier Bennett held them.
In the final quarter, the Dragons came back strong - Falcons scored, but so did the Dragons, with a great shot from Matt Vogels, the final score a 3-1 loss.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
FROM Wangaratta to the Philippines, China and back again, local Duke Mendoza is making a mark on the international stage.
The 10-year-old Wangaratta Warrior earned the chance to represent Australia at an international Philippine-based basketball tournament in Manila throughout March and April this year after only one year of representative basketball in Wangaratta.
He was invited as part of his association with MIC Basketball Australia, a training academy based in Melbourne, going through rigorous try-outs, trainings and practice games.
In Manila, Duke had the opportunity of going up against the under 12s USA team which boasted players as tall as 1.8m.
Duke’s Australian team couldn’t beat the Americans, but the 10-year-old still managed 17 points against the challenging opposition.
On the back of his success, the Point Guard Academy, a Philippines-based junior basketball development club, then gave the chance for Duke to travel to Beijing to be part of their under 10s team as an Australian grassroots player, and was the youngest member of his under 12s team in the Asia Youth Championship League.
The St Bernard’s Primary School student was his under 10s team captain and said coach Ricky Longares was a big influence on his success.
“Coach Ricky’s efforts encouraged me and pushed my skills to another whole level that I didn’t realize I can do,” he said.
Duke said his best game from his overseas ventures came when it mattered most at the championship game in Beijing.
The Australian grassroots Philippines under 10 team would go
on to win 55-41 against Mongolia, with Duke outscoring the Mongolian team himself, with 48 points, and earned MVP honours in the Beijing Youth Asia Basketball League.
Duke’s under 12s team was also runner up, earning him a silver medal.
During his travels Duke said he enjoyed getting to see places he had never been to before like the Great Wall of China and filming locations of the Karate Kid movies, but most of all his experiences on the court.
“It was a learning and fun experience on the court with my team win or lose, and the new faces I met that became my friends,” he said.
To top it off Duke also helped his Wangaratta Warriors under 12s team taste success in the Adelaide Easter Classic in April, winning the championship.
Duke was born and raised in Wangaratta, often hooping against younger brother Ace and older brother Prince, while having family ties to the Philippines.
Duke’s all-time basketball idol is Michael Jordan, while he currently follows Stephan Curry, this season’s NBA MVP Shai GilgeousAlexander and his Oklahoma City Thunder, cheering them on in the NBA Finals.
But the young star said his biggest influence in basketball was his dad, Gilbert, who has trained Duke since he was a toddler and helps develop his skills on a near daily basis.
The 10-year-old will soon be back playing in the Philippines junior MPBL 11 and under division, the biggest grassroots league in the country, which expanded to include junior grades for the first time this season.
Following his MPBL stint, Duke vies to continue to take his basketball globally, with his ultimate goal to represent the AustralianFilipino under 12s international team next year.
WANGARATTA Rangers
Orange played Porepunkah Panthers in all grades at Porepunkah with rain threatening the under 15s and under 12s games, which were played in light drizzle.
The Rangers under 12s batted first and started off well, losing only two out of their seven batters to face the plate in their first dig to score five runs.
Panthers had 12 players turn up for the game and they only had one player out when their seventh batter got on base safely to score them six runs in their turn at bat.
Rangers did not score any runs in the second innings with Panthers adding five runs to have a 11-5 lead at the top of the third innings.
Rangers made a strong comeback in their last two
turns at bat, while Panthers could only get one run over the plate in their third dig and were put out, three up, three down in the last to lose by three runs.
Rangers Orange 15 def Panthers 12.
In the under 15s, both teams benefited from the seven-batter rule for the duration of the game.
Rangers Orange lost only two outs in each of their three turns at bat and Panthers only lost the game when they lost their third out in their third innings, bringing three runs to finish the game, three runs short of Rangers Orange, 16 to 13.
In the C grade game, Rangers started off well when they scored seven runs in their first innings then had Panthers side away with only
three runs in.
Rangers batted through their line-up again in the second dig but left bases loaded and had only added three more runs when they lost their third out.
Panthers had only four batters face the pitcher in their turn at bat with time up before the third innings was completed.
Rangers 10 def Panthers 3.
Rangers Orange had another bad day with the bat in the B grade game going three up, three down in the first dig then leaving a runner on third without scoring any runs.
In the second, Panthers were not doing much better when they only scored one run in the second dig to lead by that much at the top of the third.
Ryan Brockwell got on base by a hit-by-pitcher ball for Rangers, they then lost the next two batters.
Their next batter got on from a fielding error and was brought home alone with Brockwell to score their first two runs.
Neither team got a runner past second in their next at bat, then Panthers showed a bit of determination in their last innings to scores six runs to run out winning 10-3.
With rain threatening to fall, the A game got underway when Rangers Orange had just six batters face the plate in their first turn at bat but left bases loaded when they lost their third out and no runs scored.
Panthers went three up, three down in their at bat, in fact for their first three in-
nings they did not score.
Orange got their first three runs in their second dig and did not add to that in their third innings to lead three runs to Panther’s nil at the top of the fourth.
Rangers came back in their batting in the next two innings scoring four runs in their fifth and another six in the last, holding Panthers to add only two in their fifth and one more in their last.
Rangers Orange 13 def Panthers 5.
With rain falling overnight, Wangaratta Rangers Black B grade game was the only game played at Targoora Park, Wangaratta on Sunday, with both their A grade and their under 15s having the bye and the under 12s washed out.
Rangers Black played Albury Bears Green in the B Grade in what turned out to be a very hard game to enjoy watching as it turned into a pitcher/catcher game.
Sean Stuchbery pitched the full game for Bears, striking out nine of the 22 Rangers Black batters that faced him and had eight safe hits against him.
For Rangers Black, Tanner Godenzi pitched to Josh Wells, striking out 13 batters and having only two safe hits against him. Both ended up being the only two runs for Bears all game, while Godenzi and Wells had five of the Rangers safe hits between them. Wangaratta Rangers Black won in the sixth innings with the game taking two hours to play.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
THEY’VE copped some tough losses, but Goorambat is still well positioned to make a run for finals in the back end of the year.
The Bats head into this weekend’s round 12 sitting fifth overall with a record of 7-3, with their only defeats this season coming against the current top three of Bright, Milawa, and Greta.
Their most severe defeat was against reigning premiers Greta, who inflicted a 158-point deconstruction back in round three, when Blues forwards Frazer Judd and Cody Crawford took advantage of a depleted Bats back six to hammer on 22 goals between them.
However, Goorambat coach Ben Wapling said they’d taken the lessons from their losses and looked to rectify them this week.
“We’re pretty happy with how we’ve gone, before the weekend we were 7-2, and we’ve had some tough games where we’ve had to really hold on and come back to win,” he said.
“We haven’t had a full squad all year, not once, so we’re trying to work around that at the moment.
“This year, as every football club has, there are some losses that aren’t great – we’ve just got to learn from that.
“We’ve got a really tough run home, a really tough run home, so we’ve got to be playing our best footy and try to be there when finals come.
“I see it as a positive, we’re going to play all of the tough teams, and just keep learning from it like we did last year.”
Greta’s midfield-forward connection will be targeted by Goorambat, preventing their dangerous forwards from getting too many looks at goal in order to avoid another shellacking.
“Last time we played Greta we didn’t have a strong backline at all, but there will be no excuses this weekend,” Wapling said.
“We got pretty creamed by two players last game, the delivery through the midfield of them was great too, but we took some great lessons from that.
“We know where we need to shut things down, and we need to be better in our midfield to do that this week.
“I do have belief we can take it right up to them and it won’t be like it was the last game we played.”
Thee Bats head to the Greta Recreation Reserve
this weekend to take on the Blues.
Elsewhere, Moyhu will be hoping to replicate the way they played early last time against Bonnie Doon, when the Bombers head to Hopperland.
The Hoppers led at each break in their previous meeting, even leading by 12 points at three quarter time, and if they can play that way again, it might be enough to flip the script on the Bombers.
Elsewhere, Whorouly will look to launch into the back end of the year after their bye last weekend, hosting Milawa in what’s sure to be a thriller.
The Lions sit just outside the top six on percentage with nine matches left to play, and the huge scalp of the second-placed Demons will do wonders for their chances of playing in September.
King Valley will make the long trek up the mountain to take on Bright at Pioneer Reserve, with the Roos angling to hand the ladder leaders their second loss of the year.
Tarrawingee is at home to North Wangaratta to round out the weekend’s competition.
Football around the O&K commences from 12pm with the reserves matches, before the seniors at 2pm.
REWRITE HISTORY: Alexander Moloney and the Bats are looking for redemption for their 158-point loss the last time they took on
THIS weekend could very well have an impact on the ladder positions heading into finals, and safe to say, the stakes are high.
The Lions are back in action this weekend after two weeks away from Saturday action, with their second bye for the season falling directly after the leaguewide bye.
This weekend, they’ll host Milawa, and all eyes will be on the A grade clash, with the Lions and Demons vying for a top two finish.
Given their last match back in round five was a 45-45 draw, the stage is set for an hour of exhilarating netball.
Whorouly coach Kelly Cousins said her team was rested and ready after back-to-back byes.
“We’ve come off two weeks, which has been really great for us, we had a couple of niggles among the team so it was great to have two weeks off to get them reset,” she said.
“The girls are very keen to get on the court and see what we can do, considering the game was so tight last time.
“We’re just looking to get back to our processes, meet our non-negotiables we’ve set for ourselves this year, and the result will be what it will be.
“Milawa are always tough, they’ve reset after the league bye really well - it’ll be a tough
GO ONE BETTER: Sally Sharp and the Lions A grade squad will look to improve on their drawn match with Milawa.
match but the girls are up for the challenge.”
Both teams have stars at both ends of the court.
The Lions’ defensive unit is one of the best in the competition, having conceded the second-fewest goals out of any team in A grade.
Defenders Laura Keighran, Ebony Allen and Sally Wood will be the anchors for Whorouly against a tough Milawa shooting end which
includes gun goaler Emily Canny, as well as a strong Milawa midcourt who are damaging in transition.
“It’s a big job for Laura [on Emily Canny], but if she can just get some touches and be disruptive in there, together with Eb [Allen], we can put some defensive pressure on,” Cousins said.
“Then if we can convert what they turn over, we’ll do well.
“That’ll be our big focus, just
transitioning from defence into attack, and making sure we stay composed and make smart decisions.”
Elsewhere, Greta will be looking for a definitive result when they take on a strong Goorambat at the Greta Recreation Reserve.
The Blues were on the end of a nail-biting drawn match last week, and with the season rapidly progressing, they’ll be looking to snag the full allot-
ment of premiership points. Also coming off a drawn match are Moyhu and Bonnie Doon, who will face off on the court at Hopperland.
Meanwhile, North Wangaratta will look to harness the momentum from their first win on the weekend when they take on Tarrawingee at the Kennel.
Netball begins from 9.10am, with the A grade matches set for a 2.30pm start.
Darcy Hope suspended for five weeks on debut
HIGH-profile King Valley recruit Darcy Hope has been handed a fivematch suspension for striking North Wangaratta’s Billy Raggett in his debut match for the Roos.
Coming across from O&M outfit Corowa Rutherglen before the midseason clearance window closed, Hope was playing in his first match for his new club on Saturday, 14 June when the incident took place early in the second quarter off the ball.
The incident was graded as intentional, severe impact and high contact, which carries a minimum prescribed penalty of five weeks.
“In no way does the league condone violence, and we don’t want to see these things happening,” O&K league operations manager Daniel Saville said.
Hope will be eligible for selection for King Valley from their round 17 match, a home game against Greta.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
COME FOR THE CROWN: Sam Murray and his Rovers will look to knock off second-placed North Albury at W. J. Findlay Oval.
WE could very well be witnessing a grand final preview this weekend, when the two best teams in the competition slug it out for the second time this year.
Wangaratta Rovers, the reigning premiers and seeming frontrunners for the flag, host a ferocious North Albury in a match-up which has pundits’ tongues wagging.
They last met all the way back in April’s round one, when the Hawks took the points 10.11 (71) to 6.9 (45), but a lot has changed since then.
The Hoppers have been a revelation in 2025, sitting even on points with Rovers and trailing by less than 10 per cent, with only the two losses against them.
North Albury’s Josh Murphy is second on the Doug Strang Medal leaderboard, with 33 goals off his boot, while players like Tim Broomhead, Ben Rigoni, and Cayden Winter are thriving.
Rovers coach Sam Murray said he expected a tough match for four quarters, given how close the entire competition was this year.
“You look earlier on in the year at where can you potentially refresh before finals, what’s your list going to look like and how can you manage it the best throughout
the year, but at the moment, with the way it sits and the way teams are playing and results are happening, you don’t really have that luxury,” he said.
“It’s great for the league, it’s great for the competition, it’s something we’re all really excited about.
“It just means we’ve got to stay really hungry and stay at our best as much as we can most weeks.
“If you’re not, challengers can come, and wins can become hard to come by.
“We come up against North Albury this week which is going to be a big challenge for us - we’re sitting equal on points, and that provides another challenge, but you can just see everywhere if you’re not on your game, if you’re not at your best, you can drop games.”
While their dramatic come-from-behind win over Wodonga on the weekend thrilled the brown and gold faithful, Murray conceded there was still plenty of work to do before September.
“We’re probably not playing our best football at the moment over the past three weeks, but we’re finding ways to win,” he said.
“In certain weeks, you do have to find a win or make a win.
“It’s unrealistic to think you’re going to walk in and be at your best or have a domi-
nant display every week, so it’s about getting four points at the end of the day.
“How we do that and what we do to achieve that is something that we’ve got to continue to refine, but at the end of the day if we’re banking wins, all we’re looking to do is qualify for finals where things go to another level.”
The Hawks host North Albury in a top of the table throwdown at W. J. Findlay Oval this Saturday, with seniors from 2pm.
Elsewhere, it’s another week on the road for the Magpies, bound for John Foord Oval to take on a sprightly Corowa Rutherglen.
The ‘Pies held off the Roos in their first encounter back in April, banking the win by a tick over five goals, but they’d be looking for a statement result after falling to Albury last weekend.
Albury vs Wangaratta: 5 F. Carroll (Alb), 4 I. Muller (Alb), 3 J. Gaynor (Alb), 2 M. Walker (Alb), 1 J. Pitt (Alb). Rovers v Wodonga: 5 S. Murray (Rov), 4 T. O’Sullivan (Wod), 3 S. Cattapan (Rov), 2 W. Christie (Rov) 1 M. Wilson (Wod).
Leaderboard: J. East (Myrt) 21, I. Muller and F. Carroll (Alb) 19.
■ From back page
“Bec’s role this week isn’t just about putting goals on the board.
“She’ll also play a key part in disrupting Grace’s rhythmkeeping her engaged and occupied throughout general play.
“We know Bec is an incredibly smart and composed player, and there’s no doubt she’ll rise to the challenge and keep Grace honest all game.”
Rovers B Grade side will share the limelight this Saturday, taking on third-placed North Albury according to Reid.
“The last time these two teams met, it ended in a draw, showing just how evenly matched the contest was,” she said.
“Rovers are currently sitting
5th and are eager to begin cementing their spot in the top five.
“This game presents a great opportunity to test ourselves against a quality side and push for that finals contention.”
The Magpies will be bolstered by their determined performance last week against Albury which saw them take the points and force their way into the top five, and also by their clash against the Roos in the first round when they went down by just one goal.
Magpies coach Shea Cunningham was eagerly looking forward to the chance of toppling the seemingly unstoppable.
“Last weekend’s win was a ripper for the Magpies and a real
momentum booster,” Cunningham said.
“Moving into fifth at the halfway mark of the season gives the group a lot of confidence and reflects the hard work that’s been building across the first half.
“We’re about where we hoped to be, maybe even slightly ahead of expectations given some of the challenges we’ve faced.”
In terms of injuries, Magpies came through last weekend relatively unscathed, which is always a bonus.
“Corowa is always a tough opponent,” Cunningham said.
“They got us by a goal last time, so we know what we’re up against.
“But we’re confident in our
ability to match them and play our brand of netball.
“Our strengths lie in everyone performing their role and sticking to our game plan - if we can execute that well, we’ll be in the contest.”
Cunningham was particularly wary of Corowa’s composure under pressure and their ability to finish strongly.
“We’ll need to be sharp across all four quarters,” she said.
With the continued consistent high quality netball from the likes of Hannah Grady, Leah Jenvey and Amanda Umanski, the Magpies on their home court have reason to be confident of upsetting the Roos.
After a hugely successful season in 2024, the Alpine Under 10s junior footy program is back for 2025 –and it’s shaping up to be even bigger! Designed to give kids aged 8 to 10 a fun and friendly introduction to junior football, the program is a perfect stepping stone for future community footy stars.
Over five action-packed Friday nights, kids will enjoy a mini-competition experience that builds skills, teamwork, and club spirit – all while connecting junior clubs with their next generation of players, coaches and volunteers.
☑ Kicking off Friday, 27th June
☑ FREE REGISTRATION
Venue: RC McNamara Reserve, Myrtleford (Participating Teams include Bright, Mt Beauty, Myrtleford, Whorouly, Greta) Register now by scanning the QR code and finding your nearest participating Auskick
DRIVE CHANGE WITH THE TAC CLUB REWARDS PROGRAM
It’s time to recognise the legends behind the scenes – the volunteers who make our clubs and communities thrive!
Do you know someone who:
☑ Always puts their hand up
☑ Is first to arrive and last to leave
☑ Flips snags at the BBQ, sets up fields, washes jumpers, or just gets things done?
Nominate them today and give them the recognition they deserve!
Incredible prizes to be won, including:
���� A brand-new
����
AFL North East Border is calling on local clubs to take the lead in road safety through the TAC Club Rewards Program. By spreading important road safety messages and engaging your community, your club could earn up to $10,000 in funding to reinvest into local initiatives.
It’s a simple but powerful way to help keep your community safe – both on and off the field.
Page 34
Wangaratta basketballer Duke Mendoza shows off his winnings so far this year, from domestic MVPs to his international junior basketball MVP award he won playing in China.
■ Story page 35.
Years in operation: We have been trading for over 40 years now.
Opening Hours: 8am til 5pm Monday to Friday & 8.30am til 12 noon Saturday.
Who’s who at Wangaratta Bearings and Industrial Supplies: (left to right)
Home town netballers face major challenges this weekend in Ovens and Murray A
Danni Barber, Greg Oates, Brendon French, Dylan Fishcher, Greg Baker, Tony Gigliotti, Chris McInnes – Manager, Craig Fruend, Donna McInnes, Richard Nunn, Jodie Edwards.
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
to her age limiting her appearances at the top level, the Hawks will have to be strategic on exactly when she plays.
opportunity to set clear goals - both as individuals and as a team - for each quarter.
Describe your eld of expertise: Ability to supply anything automotive,mechanical or industrial.
and intent - and carrying that momentum through the full four quarters.
We guarantee:
WANGARATTA’S A grade netball teams each face huge challenges this weekend as they square off against two of the competition’s top sides. Wangaratta Magpies travel away for the second week in succession, this time to John Foord Oval to take on top of the table and undefeated Corowa-Rutherglen, while the Wangaratta Rovers are at home again to North Albury who are in equal second position along with Yarrawonga and Wodonga Raiders.
“This mindset will help us stay accountable and continually raise our standards.
Rover Kara O’Donohue will miss at least one more week due to her wrist injury which opens the door for Sophia Pasquali to return but, due
Coach Gracie Reid said the focus for the remainder of the season will barely change, it isn’t just about results, it’s about growth.
“Our focus remains on building consistency across all four quarters,” Reid said.
“Each game presents an
“When we last met North Albury, we had a rough start, trailing 17–3 in the first quarter.
“I’ve said it all season, and I’ll keep saying it: having goals and team benchmarks is crucial.
Consistent contributor Bec Kreltszheim faces a bigger task than normal this weekend, taking on Grace Hayes, a talented U/23s VNL player known for her athleticism and ability to read the play.
Did you know? We are now the North East distributors for WIA welding consumables & machines, Festool concrete machines and tools.We keep all trailer parts, Unimig welders, pure gas oxy/ LPG / acetylene / argon cylinders, Evakool esky’s and 12 volt fridges, Fuchs oil, Terrain Tamer 4WD parts, Donaldson, Wix and Ryco Filters.
“This time, our focus is on starting well - coming out with intensity, composure,
“They give us purpose, help us stay in the contest mentally and emotionally, and inspire us to keep pushing no matter where we are on the ladder.”
“Grace isn’t just a strong defender in the ring - she loves to fly out and disrupt midcourt entries, making her a constant threat,” Reid said.
■ Continued page 37