■ Killawarra cattle producer Emma Iddison was happy to see 50mm of rainfall last week, but she still has to buy in feed for her herd as challenging conditions remain. Story page 13
MENTAL HEALTH BOOST FOR CITY
The new front door to the men tal health care system in Wanga ratta has officially opened.
Victorian Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt, together with Treasurer and Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes celebrated along with 50 attendees at the long-awaited milestone opening of the new walk-in Mental Health and Wellbeing Wangaratta Local centre in Reid
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
Street and Victory Parade.
The Wangaratta Local offers a range of instant clinical and wellbeing mental health supports via in-person walk-ins and appointments, telehealth and outreach services – all free of charge with
no Medicare or GP referral required.
The site had been two years in the making and was meticulously developed with input from community members and people with lived and living experience of mental health illness.
Minister Stitt said about 30 staff would be operating with the Wangaratta Local service, with outreach work stretching across
Benalla and Mansfield regions.
“It gives the opportunity for people to get expert mental health support here if they are experiencing mental health issues that are a little more complex than a GP can deal with, but not serious enough to go to one of our critical services at a hospital,” she said.
“This takes a lot of pressure off our hospital system.”
■ Continued page 2
Join in night of connection and music
By JORDAN DUURSMA
The community is invited to join in a night of music and connection to help back efforts to provide a safe place to sleep for those in our community without a home.
The event on tomorrow from 7pm-9pm is being held at Zac’s Place (1-3 Wills Street in Wangaratta).
A donation on entry will help raise much needed funds for Zac’s Place and the Wang Night Shelter which open six nights a week to support those in the community who are doing it tough and sleep -
ing rough this winter.
Queensland band River Movement and local musician Rhys Duursma will set the soundtrack for the evening.
Director of Zac’s Place and project manager of the Wang Night Shelter, Di Duursma, said this is a family friendly event and everyone is welcome.
“These musicians are well known for playing locally in schools, festivals and community events,” she said.
“This is a time to gather to hear stories, take off your labels at the door and come together over the love of music.
“Rhys Duursma is a local artist and has been a long time supporter of Zac’s Place and the Wang Night Shelter.
“It’s not River Movement’s first time supporting us in our work and those who are on the margins of community.”
Those who wish to financially support the Wang Night Shelter and Zac’s Place can donate at Bendigo Bank to Zac’s Place Inc, ref. Wang, BSB 633000, Acc.no.155600257 or The Wang Night Shelter has accounts that people can donate directly to at Everyday Gourmet and La Bella Rocca.
The Wang Night Shelter is still calling for overnight volunteers for the 10pm to 7am shift during winter nights.
They currently open six nights per week and are aiming for seven with the support from the community.
Volunteer training runs are held on Tuesday afternoons from 2pm - 4pm.
To get involved or for more information, contact Wang Night Shelter via email at wangnightshelter@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook.
500 PEOPLE CELEBRATED OXLEY HALL’S 150TH
MORE than 500 people packed into the Oxley Shire Hall and on the grounds amongst the festoon lights on Saturday to enjoy the free community event in celebration of the halls’ 150th birthday. The event kicked off at 3pm with a generous country afternoon tea and the opportunity to wander through the historical photo displays and enjoy
the slideshow presentation documenting the town and hall history over the past 150 years. Kids were entertained with face painting and a variety of kids sports activities, whilst the adults enjoyed the Indie folk musical entertainment by The Kate Way and wine tasting in support of the Oxley Primary School’s fundraising drive. Speeches held inside the hall were
an opportunity for longtime hall stalwart Janet Heath to describe the transformation of the hall over the past 47 years and for Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant and Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy to congratulate the community on their achievement in restoring the hall.
We’ll have further coverage in Wednesday’s Chronicle.
Mental health boost for Wangaratta, district
■ from page 1
Services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experienced mental health professional, wellbeing staff and peer support workers, and is designed to meet the diverse needs of the community.
Minister Stitt said the new permanent home of the Wangaratta Local looked magnificent and would be an incredible service across the community.
“It’s filling a gap we’ve never had before in our system, and I couldn’t be happier to see Wangaratta now in a permanent location,” she said.
“It’s designed in a way that’s very thoughtful, we’ve had a lot of input from not just expert staff here, but also people with lived experience so that we can create an environment where people feel like they can come here free from stigma, in a non-clinical environment.
“What this is about is giving people the help they need where they live as early as possible.”
Local Bpangerang elder Uncle Darren ‘Dozer’ Atkinson who began opening proceedings with a smoking ceremony, spoke of the importance of local youth and Indigenous people receiving mental health support, particularly in the age of social media.
A short tour of the facilities fol-
before speeches and morning tea wrapped up the official opening.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Wangaratta is led by Wellways Australia in partnership with Albury Wodonga Health and the Australian Community Support Organisation.
The Wangaratta team had been operating out of two temporary sites on Victory Parade and Ovens Street for the past two years anticipating the opening of a permanent home.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Wangaratta Local director of ser-
easily accessible place for people to walk in and access mental health care without referrals or a Medicare card was an incredible community asset.
“Our work in Wangaratta has been about creating a service by Wangaratta, for Wangaratta,” she said.
“I know loneliness and isolation are big contributors to decline in wellbeing in this community, this local provided opportunities for people to connect.”
Ms Symes said early intervention
access was crucial in mental health
“As someone who has grew up here and had family members that have had mental health challenges without anywhere to go decades ago, to have the place-based facilities that people can walk in without a Medicare card and without a referral is a game changer,” she said.
“There is every opportunity to get the help you need whether it’s on site here or out in the community.
“In country areas I know that it can be challenging to get the help you need, which is why as a government we are priotising mental
The Wangaratta Local is one of 15 similar services that have assisted more than 23,000 Victorians with free community-based mental health care.
The 2025/26 state budget invested $34.4 million to expand and establish Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across the state.
The centre can be accessed at 76a Reid Street, with entry via Victory Parade, on weekdays from 9am to 6pm and Saturdays by appointment.
You can find out more on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local Wangaratta in Wednesday’s Chronicle.
LOCAL TALENT: Local musician Rhys Duursma will share songs and stories at Zac’s Place in a night of community and connection.
Winton Wetlands shock: staff redundant, everything stopped
Committee of management has ceased, hands back all reserve responsibilities to DEECA
A shocks shake-up of management has seen all Winton Wetlands’ 20 staff made redundant, the Winton Wetlands Hub and Café closed temporarily, and all environmental and research programs at the reserve paused.
It follows a decision by Winton Wetlands committee of management to relinquish management of the reserve and hand back land management responsibilities to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
In a statement to stakeholders, Dr Dennis O’Brien, CEO of Winton Wetlands CoM, said “despite considerable support from the Victorian Government and other partners, the committee has not been able to establish a sustainable business model for the site... and has made the difficult decision to relinquish management of the reserve.
“After a brief transition period, land management responsibilities will revert to DEECA.
“DEECA has indicated that it will explore alternative management options for the reserve in collaboration with Traditional Owners, other stakeholders and the community.”
The statement said the decision, announced to the 10 full-time and 10 casual staff members on Wednesday, “had not been taken lightly and followed extensive consultations with DEECA”.
“Unfortunately, while future options are being considered, the Winton Wetlands Hub and Café has closed temporarily, and environmental and research programs have been paused.
“The committee is committed to supporting the affected staff, who continue to be its top priority.”
DEECA Hume regional director, Courtney Bertram, told the Wangaratta Chronicle that her department “is
BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au
working on arrangements for the future management of the reserve following a decision of the current committee of management to relinquish the site”.
Ms Betram said Winton Wetlands Reserve is an environmentally significant site that delivers a range of benefits to local communities.
Since 2010, the reserve has been managed by the Winton Wetlands committee of management under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978.
In his statement, Dr O’Brien said staff and partners, guided by the committee, had made significant progress in landscape and site restoration, including development of key infrastructure such as the visitor hub, café, education centre, campgrounds, picnic areas, and more than 90 kilometres of roads, walking, and cycling tracks.
“Our Restoration and Monitoring Strategic Plan has provided the framework over the last 10 years to achieve significant biodiversity gains for the site,” it read.
“We have restored flows and improved the aquatic ecology of over 30 wetlands forming this unique ecosystem.
“Through our long-term partnership with the Regent Honey Eater Project, we have revegetated over 1600 hectares of River Red Gum swampland and improved water quality and habitat linkages across the reserve.
“Our restoration team has worked tirelessly to control feral plants and animals and implement a range of monitoring programs, which have shown an increase in flora and fauna species diversity across the site.
MP, community “reeling”, seeking answers
Answers are being sought about what happened at Winton Wetlands, and what will be done into the future.
Benalla-based Nationals MP for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said the sudden closure of the Mokoan Hub and Café at Winton Wetlands is “incredibly disappointing and has left our local community reeling”.
“My thoughts are with the hardworking staff who lost their jobs with no warning or transparency...they deserved far better,” she said.
“I’ve contacted the Minister for Environment and DEECA, seeking an urgent briefing on how this decision was made and what the government intends for the future of this iconic site.
“Our community deserves straight answers - not silence.
“It’s deeply troubling that, after tens of millions of taxpayer dollars invested over the
“We have achieved the reintroduction of three threatened freshwater fish species and a rewilding program with aims to reintroduce the vulnerable Growling Grass
past decade, the Allan Labor Government still hasn’t delivered a sustainable or successful model for the wetlands.”
Local farmer Doug Bain, whose property adjoins the wetlands and who served on the committee of management from 2012-2016, believes some sort of official inquiry is needed.
He said he was of the understanding a formal process by DEECA and the committee to pursue a new land management model, seeking Expressions of Interest in late 2023/early 2024, had seen the traditional committee of management structure - of up to eight community members when he was on itreduced significantly.
He said since last year he had had numerous conversations with the Odonata Foundation - a leading Australian environmental conservation charity dedicated to saving species
Frog to the wetlands.
“As CEO I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished, thanks to our wonderful, passionate, and dedicated staff, volunteers,
- which said it was in the process of becoming land managers of the reserve.
Mr Bain said part of those discussions had included potential income stream options to underpin the reserve’s financial sustainability, including the viability of on-site accommodation.
“I’m disappointed and gutted with what has happened,” he said.
“When the decision was made to decommission Lake Mokoan back in 2004, and revert the reserve back to the wetland that existed, we got the government to increase the funding required from $1m to $17m, plus a further $3m in land sales which unfortunately never eventuated.
“Where has all that money gone?
“We were told the restoration of this environmentally significant wetland would be the best thing since sliced bread.
“It isn’t and questions must be asked and answered.”
stakeholders, and partners.
“While this marks the conclusion of the Winton Wetlands committee of management’s tenure managing this important site, there is
still much work to do.
“I and others will watch the next phase of the wetland’s restoration with keen interest.”
SUN SETS ON WETLANDS: After 15 years under the management of a committee, Winton Wetlands is in temporary limbo as a new land management structure into the future is sought.
PHOTO: Rene Martens
Your new home of better music variety
Green light for electronic sign to light up in the CBD
Distraction and character arguments not enough to stop promotional sign permit
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
An electronic promotional sign at one of Wangaratta’s busiest intersections has been given the go ahead by council despite a push back against it.
The subject building is occupied by Zambrero Restaurant at the corner of Murphy and Reid streets, and Wangaratta council officers recommended that the 8.1m x 2m three panel sign be issued a notice of refusal on 10 grounds including unacceptable urban design, heritage, and road safety.
Cr Harvey Benton moved an alternative motion that council grants the permit because electronic advertising has become more common and council actually uses it.
“I believe in this day and age this is where we’re heading in relation to advertising and we actually use it ourselves on certain other areas in the matter and I know we pay for digital advertising,” Cr Benton said.
“We also have other digital advertising, not particularly within the CBD, but we have digital advertising here in the municipality of the urban area of Wangaratta.
“I don’t think I have a question in my mind in relation to the heritage issue.
“This is a rather modern building that it’s going on to, so I find that a little bit of a
quandary in relationship to the heritage act.”
way of advertising business and I certainly put business first because that’s when opportunity starts,” he said.
He did however acknowledge that the sign could be a distraction as its located at the CBD’s only intersection with traffic lights.
Cr Harry Bussell seconded the motion and noted that “it’s 2025 and digital is everywhere”.
“It’s a very, very effective
Elise Stewart to Step into Director Role at Johnsons MME
Johnsons MME is pleased to announce that Elise Stewart will be appointed as a Director of the firm, effective 1 July 2025.
Elise joined Johnsons MME in 2023 and has quickly established herself as a trusted advisor and team leader across both the Wangaratta and Albury offices. With over a decade of experience in business and taxation services, including time spent supporting multinational and family-owned businesses in Sydney, Elise brings deep technical capability and a fresh perspective to regional accounting.
As Director, Elise will formally lead the firm’s Wangaratta operations, as well as maintaining a presence in the Albury office. Her immediate focus will be driving greater efficiency to ensure clients gain more value from their advisory relationship with the firm.
“Helping clients think beyond their tax return is something I’m passionate about,” Elise says. “It’s not just about numbers, it’s about asking the right questions and helping people feel more confident in the direction they’re taking.”
Elise is also an advocate for career development and financial literacy in the region. As Chair of the Albury Wodonga Regional Chartered Accountants Committee, she is leading the development of a new gap year program designed to give local school leavers a structured introduction to the accounting profession.
“Elise’s appointment reflects our continued commitment to building strong local leadership and delivering expert, forward-thinking advice
to our regional communities,” said Paul Goonan, Managing Director at Johnsons MME. “She brings energy, clarity, and a genuine passion for helping people, both our clients and our team, achieve their goals.”
Elise’s appointment adds further depth to the firm’s leadership team and supports Johnsons MME’s longstanding vision to offer city-level services through professionals who are deeply connected to their local communities.
About Johnsons MME: Johnsons MME is a leading accounting service provider located in Wangaratta, and Albury Wodonga. With a team of dedicated professionals, the firm offers a comprehensive range of business and financial services tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients and achieve goals together.
Johnsons MME is committed to supporting regional talent and providing exceptional career opportunities in the local community.
Cr Allison Winters was the only councillor against permitting the sign.
“The intersection already presents challenges for road users, even with the proposed conditions, the risk to road safety remains, particu-
larly in terms of visual distraction and reduced driver focus at a location that requires heightened attention,” Cr Winters said.
“While the main street might not be traditionally beautiful, it does have a quiet charm and character, especially at night with the lighting and the trees along Murphy Street.
“The signage in my view would detract from that character and I feel like it’s a step in the wrong direction for our town’s identity.
“Finally, we have to think about precedent. If we support this even with conditions, we open the door to similar applications in equally unsuitable locations.”
New Director at Local Business
From 1 July 2025, Elise Stewart will step into the role of Director at Johnsons MME, bringing fresh perspective and strong local experience to our leadership team.
Elise will continue to lead our Wangaratta operations, helping drive greater efficiency and value for clients across the region.
Her appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, city-level advice right here in the communities we live and work in.
together.
Johnsons MME – Achieving goals
AGAINST: Several reasons had Cr Allison Winters unhappy about an electronic promotional sign on a building at the corner of
TO: Steve Kelly
PRIME POSITION: A visual of how the electronic promotional sign will look once installed above Zambreros on the corner of Reid and Murphy streets.
What has happened at Winton Wetlands?
News the Winton Wetlands committee of management has wound up, handing back the reserve’s management to DEECA - with all 20 full-time and casual staff redundant, the hub and cafe closed and programs paused - has understandably sent shockwaves through the community.
More than 20 years ago the decision was made by the Victorian Labor Government to decommission Lake Mokoan - formed back in the 1970s by flooding the original wetlandsand undertake the largest wetland restoration project of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
For the past 15 years the reserve has been managed by a committee - for the most part one with wide community representation - and restoration involving new infrastructure, environmental programs around land and species rehabilitation, and celebration of Indigenous culture has been at the forefront of concerted efforts by staff, community and government.
There is much that has been achieved environmentally at the site, and still much work to do, but first there are questions and answers that need to be forthcoming.
Fundamentally, the current situation is saying that despite a $17m kitty to start in 2010, Winton Wetlands could not financially sustain its operations.
What is not clear, and needs to be understood in greater detail and clarity, is why?
This includes a greater level of transparency over exactly what was being pursued, post the 2023/24 decision by the committee and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to look at a new land management model.
The community, indeed Victoria, needs to understand if the wetland project can ever be financially viable, or does its ongoing survival demand going government funding as an investment into the future.
The Quiz No.141
1. What is the official currency of Israel?
2. The Winter Olympics Biathlon combines which two sports?
3. In 2006, who released her debut single, Tim McGraw?
4. Dromedary and Bactrian are types of what animal?
5. The Belcher Islands and the Ottawa Islands are found in which bay?
6. What are the surnames of the comedy duo Hamish and Andy?
7. In 1973, Gordon and Rena Merchant started which clothing company?
8. How many standard bottles of champagne are in a Balthazar?
9. Who was the last head of state of the USSR?
10. The Sea of Azov is linked to which sea by the Strait of Kerch?
11. Nicole Kidman was born in which city?
12. Who played the role of Tattoo in the 1970s-80s TV series, Fantasy Island?
13. Lake Pedder is located in which Australian state?
14. Who created the Ettamogah Pub cartoons?
15. The Japanese flag is white with what colour circle?
16. Which actress won an Academy Award for her role in Girl, Interrupted?
17. By what name is the patella best known?
18. Which Greek philosopher was taught by Socrates, and subsequently taught Aristotle?
19. Harry Hopman is best remembered for his involvement in which sport?
20. Havarti cheese originated in which country?
Facebook users have commented on staistics that show a continued rise in crime within Wangaratta.
Andrew Meloury: Might be time for some gated communities as our government won’t let police do the job they need to Debbie Rollins: Andrew Meloury its not just on the police. Prevention is actually on the
communities... errbody too busy on screens in doors..
Marlene Lamond: Apparently going on what they say “ YOU NEED PROOF” or they can’t do anything well there is no proof if cameras are smashed by those doing wrong. Time for crime stoppers.
Debbie Rollins: Not everythings on the police. Its actually on all of us as communities to pro
Certainly doesn’t seem like a democracy
All locals, community members, businesses, associations and individuals who come to live/ work in/around the municipality, are expected to abide by the same rules and regulations as far as planning goes.
Providing everyone with the same equal opportunity continuing to provide fairness and transparency to all in the community.
Why on earth is this plan for a mass solar project in Bobinawarrah still on the table after having been rejected by the Rural City of Wangaratta planning department?
I strongly believe in renewable energy – I love the idea of net zero – but not at any cost to every community who currently has access to, or live near to, transmission lines in the state of Victoria.
Indeed if this goes ahead it may jeopardise the local farmers with contamination issues moving forwards, not to mention the real danger of ground/drinking water contamination and fire risk.
We chose to live in a rural farming community - not an industrial zone.
Given also - the government has taken away our rights as individuals to seek assistance from VCAT if the plan is approved - yet the proponents still have this right.
Now the right to refuse access to land from the landowner is being sought by the government.
This seems more like a David V Goliath battle than ever before.
Why are we not playing on a level playing field with the same rules and rights available to all?
Sue Hurley, Bobinawarrah
Shemozzle at Wangaratta station
What an absolute shemozzle it is to arrive at Wangaratta Railway Station from Melbourne these days.
My husband and I returned from overseas on Wednesday so we had ‘luggage’.
We were travelling on to Myrtleford.
A considerable number of people alighted, a mix of elderly, a man on crutches and tourists all set off down the platform to use the lift.
We came out of the lift to catch the next lift to street level – it was out of order.
The choice for we travellers was to negotiate stairs or walk the ramp.
For the elderly, people on crutches and holiday makers with their ‘luggage’ – the stairs were out of the question.
When we finally arrived at the front of the station to catch our buses, we were met with ‘last call’ announcements for passengers travelling
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
actively try prevent crime. Enough is enough. Alot of families know condone and even encourage this of their youth... stop being cowards and step up and speak up in a constructive way. Stop errbody hiding and leaving all problems to someone else cos they wanna be all love and light and crap....
Adam Anderson: Debbie Rollins Nope, too many times has a good
citizen got involved to be then burnt by law enforcement. Don’t get involved.
Debbie Rollins: Adam Anderson ohhh so if the community actively tries to engage with them on a level that distracts them from wanting to be part of such behaviours, its a crime. Think outside the box and dont assume it’s a hint toward vigilante action
Have your say Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.
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MEETING NED, 145 YEARS ON FROM SEIGE: Brisbane visitors Mia Moore (left) and Sophie Barton were in Glenrowan on Saturday learning about Ned Kelly and his gang, on what was the 145th anniversary of the Kelly gang’s last stand in the deadly Glenrowan siege on 28 June, 1880. Occupying the Glenrowan Inn, with a number of hostages, the Kelly gang fired on police making a frontal attack under moonlight. Police had arrived on a train which the gang had failed to derail by removing railway tracks. Gang member Joe Byrne was killed in the gunfire and Ned was captured when he left the inn, donned in his armour, and engaged with police and was wounded. Hostages were released by remaining gang members Dan Kelly and Steve Hart, who continued their last stand, with police setting fire to the Inn at 3pm. The bodies of Kelly and Hart were found in the destroyed Inn. Hostages Johnny Jones and Martin Sherry were also killed in the siege. Ned was hanged at the Melbourne Gaol on 11 November, 1880. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner
on to Beechworth, Bright, Myrtleford.
Needless to say, no time to use the bathroom facilities prior to leaving for the drive to Beechworth and beyond.
If it is not possible for the buses to be relocated to the other side of the station, then a trolley should be on hand to transport the luggage to the buses.
I realise staff may be unavailable to assist, but there were two ladies and two men on hand at the front of the railway station to direct passengers to the buses.
Perhaps they could be relocated to the other side of the station.
I applaud the streetscape around the station, but as a welcome to the North East for tourists it is ridiculous.
Lesley Browne, Myrtleford
Grants open, but more needs to be done
Drought support grants are now officially open for applications in our region, but for many farmers, the support on offer simply won’t be enough to get them through.
One of the government’s key measures –the $5000 On-Farm Infrastructure Grant –is now available, but it falls short of what’s truly needed.
A $5000 grant won’t save a farm on the edge. We need serious, large-scale solutions to match the scale of this disaster.
The current crisis calls for a long-term plan, not another small, one-off payment.
The grants offer between $1000 and $5000 (excluding GST) on a matched dollar-for-dollar basis.
I’ve recently sent out a detailed update on how to apply, what support is available, and who to contact.
If you would like a copy, please email me at Annabelle.cleeland@parliament.vic.gov.au
Annabelle Cleeland, Nationals MP for Benalla
WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
Enjoy free events during this year’s NAIDOC Week
THE Rural City of Wangaratta is supporting NAIDOC Week 2025 celebrations with several events between 6-13 July, 2025.
This year’s NAIDOC theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, marks a powerful milestone - 50 years of honouring Indigenous voices, culture and resilience.
It celebrates the achievements of the past and looks forward to a bright future led by strong young leaders, visionary communities, and the enduring legacy of our ancestors.
Council is partnering for the third consecutive year with the Bangerang Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education (ACHE) to deliver a vibrant, free, family event at Northern Beaches.
The free Bangerang NAIDOC Community Day next week is a unique opportunity for community to come together and connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, while also embracing the beauty and importance of our local environment.
“NAIDOC Week is a time to reflect, celebrate, and learn,” Mayor Irene Grant said.
“We’re proud to support
DISPLAY OF CULTURE: Celebrating Bangerang culture, such as dance, continues to be an integral part of NAIDOC celebrations in Wangaratta. Pictured is an event at last year’s Bangerang NAIDOC Community Day.
events that bring our commu nity together in recognition of the rich cultural heritage of our First Nations peoples and the natural environment we all share.”
Bangerang NAIDOC Community Day will be held at Northern Beaches (near the Scout Hall on College Street) on Tuesday, 8 July from 11am2pm, featuring:
• Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony;
• Animals of Oz live wildlife presentation;
• Kids art and face painting; and
• Free barbecue and soup
Other free events during NAIDOC Week include:
• film screening of The Crocker Island Exodus at
exodus-film-screening; and
• community weaving workshop with Margaret Murray at Wangaratta Library on Friday, 11 July from 10am-12pm
- booking required: https:// events.humanitix.com/naidoc-week-community-weaving.
NAIDOC Week is also a great
opportunity for residents to reacquaint themselves with Wangaratta’s award-winning
The trail takes you on a 2.4km self-guided walk along the Ovens River, uncovering ancient Aboriginal stories, spirituality, culture, food and sculptures.
More information can be found www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/NAIDOC and www.naidoc.org.au.
Negotiations towards Treaty are continuing
The Victorian government and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria have been holding regional meetings to continue negotiations for Victoria’s first statewide Treaty.
Negotiations have progressed on how an ongoing role for the First Peoples’ Assembly will ensure First Peoples can make decisions on matters that impact their futures and play an ongoing role in truth-telling, including capturing stories from across Victoria and retaining an archive of this information.
The ongoing representative body will be able to advocate for First Nations communities, provide advice, work on building community leadership capability and work with the Victorian Government to close the gap between First Peoples and other Victorians.
Negotiations also emphasised the nation-leading work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission and the importance of ongoing truth-telling across local communities.
The goal of Treaty is to provide a pathway to acknowledge the past and making real, practical change to achieve better outcomes for Aboriginal Victorians. Since Treaty negotiations began, more than 700 local government, community and multicultural leaders have been engaged in Treaty forums across Victoria.
We’re changing recycling for the better. Take a moment to update your knowledge.
Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin
Mini Chella to light up school holidays
You’ve heard of Coachella - now get set for Mini Chella in the upcoming winter school holidays.
Join youthled mural project in school holidays
The Rural City of Wangaratta Youth team is looking for six young people aged between 14-18 to collaborate with renowned local artist Lisa Bishop to create a mural over the July school holidays.
The mural will be a permanent fixture at the Synergy Youth Hub in Flanagan Street.
The project is designed to be inclusive and collaborative, with Lisa working alongside young participants to develop the vision and design.
Through sketching, brainstorming, and painting, young people will explore their creativity, build confidence, and gain hands-on experience in artistic collaboration.
Celebrated artist Lisa Bishop brings a wealth of experience to this project.
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
Her art, inspired by her childhood on a farm, is a familiar sight across North East Victoria - from homes and businesses to public spaces like the Wangaratta Library and NESAY Inc (North East Support & Action for Youth).
Lisa said the project is open to anyone and accessible for every skill level.
“The process will be guided... this opportunity is not just for creative geniuses, it’s for everyone so there is no need to be intimidated,”
she said.
“It’s about everyone that wants to
have a go and express themselves through creativity.
“I think it’s really important these days for kids to be creative and use both sides of their brain instead of just the academic side.
“This is an opportunity for young people to express themselves and be involved in creating and laying claim to their space.”
Lisa works from her vibrant Chiltern-based studio and art store, and now she’s bringing that same energy to Wangaratta’s Youth Hub.
“We wanted to spark up the building a bit, make it stand out,” said council’s youth development officer Rachel Harrop.
“It’s also a great opportunity for young people to work with a talent-
JOIN IN: Council’s youth development officer Rachel Harrop is encouraging young people to sign up to spark up the Synergy Youth Hub building.
ed artist, learn new skills, and feel a sense of ownership and pride in their community.”
This initiative is part of the council’s broader school holiday programming, which aims to offer diverse and engaging experiences for all interests and is made possible by Engage, a Victorian government grant program.
Whether you’re new to art or an experienced young creative, everyone is welcome to join and contribute.
Participants would work from 10.30am to 3pm on Monday, 7 July and Friday, 11 July on the project.
Register or learn more, https:// events.humanitix.com/designand-paint-the-synergy-youth-hubmural.
Presented by Amplify Wangaratta, Mini Chella is a free event tailored to young people aged 14 to 19, and will be held from 7pm to 9.30pm on the last Friday of the holidays, 18 July.
Happening in Wareena Park Hall, it promises to be two-and-a-half hours of fun, connection and good vibeswhether chilling out, hanging with friends, or dancing to the beats of three live DJs who’ll keep the crowd entertained all evening.
Dress code for the night is ‘festival
Mini Chella-goers can warm up their winter by dancing the night away, and there will also be glow-inthe-dark face-painting, temporary tattoos, sparkling face gems, and plenty of photo opportunities to capture memories.
Mini Chella is a fully-supervised
As with all Amplify events, it will be alcohol, drug, smoke, and vape-free to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for everyone, with no passouts. For details, visit https://events. humanitix.com/mini-chella
Calling local young musos to Jam Lab
By SIMONE KERWIN
A free nine-week program offering young musicians the chance to learn skills and jam together will kick off at Swan Street’s Wareena Hall on Thursday, 24 July.
Jam Lab is open to young people aged 12 to 20, and will run from 4pm to 6pm on Thursdays, focusing on songwriting, music production and recording.
Those attending will have access to professional gear, hands-on mentoring, and a space to write, record and collaborate.
Whether you’re into indi, pop, rap or spoken word music, and no matter your skill level, everyone is welcome to the Amplify Wangaratta program. For more information, contact youth@wangaratta.vic.gov.au
PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
Local filmmaker wins more accolades
The accolades keep coming for local resident Simon Reich’s multi-media show ‘Bonegilla: The Migrant’s Journey’.
Inspired by his father’s survival of World War 2 and immigration to Australia, Simon created this multimedia show featuring interviews with migrants who came to the country between 1949 and ‘61, supported by live music.
It followed a podcast Simon created about his father, who came through the Bonegilla migrant camp near Albury/Wodonga.
After premiering in Sydney a few months ago before two sold-out crowds, ‘Bonegilla: The Migrant’s Journey’ was invited back for a raft of shows later in 2025 and next year.
The initial podcasts received a National Trust of NSW Education award at the recent 2025 awards ceremony in Sydney, adding
to the awards the project has already received.
In addition, Simon edited the interviews to become a documentary, and this has just been shortlisted by the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.
It was one of only 30 films chosen from thousands of entries - an amazing result for a first-time filmmaker.
“It’s also a validation of the local Wangaratta and Albury/ Wodonga people who put their trust in me to interview them on such a sensitive topic,” Simon said.
“This is truly a win for the amazing former migrants whose stories are resonating with people all around Australia.”
A screening of the documentary will take place as part of the film festival on Friday, 25 July from 7.30pm at Cinema Nova, 380 Lygon Street, Carlton, with a live piano and violin soundtrack in accompaniment.
Be part of this year’s Seniors Festival here
COMMUNITY groups, clubs and local organisations across the Rural City of Wangaratta are invited to host events in this year’s Wangaratta Seniors Festival, taking place throughout October.
The 2025 theme ‘Connect, Create, Celebrate’ is a call for the community to come together to honour and recognise the invaluable contributions of older people while creating opportunities for joy, connection and learning.
The Wangaratta Seniors Festival offers a diverse program of free and lowcost events that are inclusive, accessible and welcoming to all older community members.
Whether you’re based in town or in one of our rural communities, your event can help bring the celebration to life across the region.
Local groups can get involved by hosting an event that celebrates the senior members of our community.
Victorian Seniors Card holders will also enjoy eight days of free public transport, from 5 to 12 October, including travel on all metropolitan services, V/Line train and coach services, and select regional bus routes.
Expressions of interest are open until 20 July.
Events should aim to:
• foster social connection and community spirit;
• promote health, wellbeing, and active lifestyles;
• offer inclusive and accessible opportunities for participation, and
• encourage learning, creativity, and fun.
Expression of interests can be made via www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/EOISeniors.
Thank you Wang!
A huge thanks to the Wangaratta community for your participation in our tap and go payment trial on town buses.
Between November and May, we trialed tap and go payments for full fare customers on town buses in Wangaratta, giving passengers more payment options for their travel.
During the trial, over 4000 trips were successfully paid for using contactless options including credit and debit card payments.
Passengers in Wangaratta told us they found the readers easy to use, quick, and responsive. We also heard that it was important to keep different payment options, and that education was key for people to feel confident using contactless payment on public transport.
Your feedback has helped us prepare for the start of contactless payments on the myki network from early 2026 before we expand coverage to all parts of Victoria.
Now the trial has concluded, you can continue to pay for your bus travel using your usual payment method.
To learn more about our myki upgrade program, ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki-upgrade/
HONOURED: Simon Reich at the National Trust of NSW Heritage Awards, where his podcasts were recently recognised.
ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH
WANGARATTA
The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.
Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.
Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.
Bowie Frances Hogan Connie Della Green Kiara Otega Obanovwe
Bowie Frances Hogan was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Wednesday, 28 May at 8.49am and weighed 2.9kg (6lb 3oz). She is the daughter of Emily and Billy Hogan of Wangaratta.
Connie Della Green was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Friday, 20 June and weighed 3.7kg (8lb 1oz). She is a sister for Clancy and daughter of Chaye Crimmins and Cam Green of Wangaratta.
Kiara Otega Obanovwe was born at Northeast Health Wangartta on Thursday, 26 June at 10.58am and weighed 2.6kg (5lb 7oz). She is a sister for Amelia and Jonathan, and the daughter of Lisa Carpinelli and Eddy Obanovwe of Kialla.
Golden anniversary of Wangaratta Wahine
By ANITA MCPHERSON
A sell-out crowd gathered at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on 29 May to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Mic Conway and The Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band’s song Wangaratta Wahine reaching the top of the Aussie music charts.
The evening’s entertainment began with a performance by an amazing band called the Wanga Rats, who embraced the Hawaiian theme as they performed four songs about Wangaratta.
The band included local musicians Neil Foster, Rod Davis, Andy Kimber, Graeme Cripps, John Bell and Chris Mangan, who did a great job of warming up the crowd, before vaudevillian entertainer extraordinaire, Mic Conway, came on to present his unique mixture of magic, music, fire eating and old (but good) jokes, to the delight of everyone.
A rousing rendition of the hit
song was also a feature of the night.
The Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band, led by Mic Conway, performed Wangaratta Wahine on the first colour episode of ABC music show Countdown on 1 March, 1975.
Back in 1975 Mic was presented with cardboard key to the city from the mayor of Wangaratta - for helping put the region on the mapand when he returned for the 40th anniversary in 2015, Mayor Irene Grant paid tribute to the gesture, presenting him with a symbolic potted palm.
For the 50th anniversary, councillor Dave Fuller - acting on behalf of Cr Grant who was unfortunately unavailable - presented Mic with a golden framed drawing of a Hawaiian gentleman playing a ukulele, with a copy of Wangaratta Wahine on his knee.
The event was a fitting way to celebrate an eccentric musical phenomenon of 1970s Australia.
Weather week of highs and lows
The deep low pressure which brought the very unsettled conditions at the start of the week saw Monday’s temperature reach 17.9 degrees at Wangaratta and 19 degrees at Rutherglen.
These were their warmest days for late June since 1979 and before that in 1959.
Thunderstorms late on Monday night and early Tuesday morning brought heavy falls to Mt Hotham and Falls Creek.
Mt Hotham recorded 91mms to Tuesday morning - the wettest June day since 126mms on 18 June, 1989. Thankfully rainfall turned to snowfall on Tuesday and Wednesday is sub-zero temperatures, blanketing Falls Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resort with more than 40cms of natural snowfall.
Wangaratta had over 37mm of rainfall early in the week, and most major centres in North East Victoria hade 20mms to 30mms including showers up to Wednesday afternoon - exceeding average monthly totals for June.
Canberra has had five successive very cold mornings under minus 5.5 degrees, which is the coldest for June since 1965.
Condobolin recorded minus 5.5 degrees - its coldest June morning since minus 6.1 degrees in 1966.
Both 1965 and 1966 saw very cold, bleak conditions during the third week of July not only in Victoria but well north into NSW with heavy snowfalls on the Northern Tablelands and snow even fell on the mountains just west of Townsville during the 1965 event.
Organic waste trial halves landfill rubbish
Monday, 30 June, 2015
By SHANE DOUTHIE
A popular local restaurant has halved its general waste by using the new organic waste bins, which all Wangaratta households will get from September 1 this year.
Café Derailleur owner Eric Bittner said in the first week of a trial he was currently doing he had seen around 450kg of organic waste saved from going into landfill.
“I knew our organic waste amount was increasing... most of it was going to our 10 chooks at home but they were struggling to keep
up,” he told the Wangaratta Chronicle.
Mr Bittner said his staff had embraced the new system which was relatively easy to introduce as organic food scraps were already placed in a separate bin, but now it was lined with a compostable liner and placed in a council organics bin.
He said patrons at his popular eatery opposite the Wangaratta Railway Station also welcomed the initiative.
Courtney Naughton, Rural
City of Wangaratta waste management co-ordinator, said Mr Bittner’s 50 per cent reduction in general waste is what they believe most similar businesses would achieve.
She said it’ll provide substantial economic savings for businesses with the council cost of collecting organic waste about half that of the general waste.
Ms Naughton said recycling of commercial organic waste would have an enormous impact on the waste volume going to local landfill.
Council is introducing a third bin - for organic waste - to each urban property from September 1, to reduce
waste going to landfill, which costs ratepayers millions of dollars.
The urban residential organics bin will be collected weekly and the current red lid garbage collection will change to fortnightly, with the recycle bin pick up remaining the same.
However, for businesses the organics bin can be emptied more regularly, depending on their individual needs.
Rural residents won’t get a third bin, but will get a larger 240 litre red lidded bin - up from 140 litres - to be collected fortnightly, the same as the yellow lidded bin.
By Peter Nelson, retired CSIRO climatologist
OPENING ACT: Members of the Wanga Rats including (from left) Neil Foster, Rod Davis, Andy Kimber and Graeme Cripps, got the party started at The Vine, playing four songs about Wangaratta.
WELCOME BACK: Rural City of Wangaratta councillor Dave Fuller (right) had the honour of presenting Mick “Captain Matchbox” Conway with a golden framed artwork to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wangaratta Wahine at The Vine Hotel. PHOTO: Paddy Milne
ORGANIC WASTE RECYCLE BIN’S BIG SAVING: Wangaratta’s new organic waste recycle bins may still be two months away from being introduced to all urban properties, but a trial at Cafe Derailleur is producing interesting results - ones which have delighted staff member Natalie Newton (pictured).
Inspiration for budding writers
By SIMONE KERWIN
Keen young writers will be able to draw on the experience of author Gabriel Bergmoser when he visits the Wangaratta Library in the coming school holidays.
Gabe will be talking about his new book, ‘Andromache in the Dark’, a page-turning, action-packed sequel to last year’s ‘Andromache Between Worlds’ that is perfect for fans of the Jane Doe Chronicles series.
It centres on Andromache Peters, who thought saving her
dad from a parallel universe would be the end of her adventures - until Vincent Black, the villain who sent him there, escapes from prison.
Suddenly, everything Andromache fought so hard for is at risk, so when a secret organisation asks Andromache for help in catching Black, she’s all too ready to say yes - especially with her best friends Rylee and Tobias along for the ride.
As Andromache’s quest takes her to strange and dangerous new worlds filled with robot police, giant centipedes and suspicious soldiers, she’ll soon
learn that sometimes the deadliest threats come from the last place you’d expect.
Gabriel, who is a regular visitor to the Wangaratta Library, is an award-winning Melbourne-based author and playwright, who was raised in Mansfield.
His first young adult novel, ‘Boone Shepard’, was shortlisted for the Readings Young Adult Prize, while his first novel for adults, ‘The Hunted’ (2020), became a bestseller and a film adaptation is currently in development.
Since then, he has published
the thrillers ‘The Inheritance’ (2021) and ‘The Caretaker’ (2023), along with YA comingof-age novel ‘The True Colour of a Little White Lie’ (2021) and middle-grade adventure ‘Andromache Between Worlds’. Gabriel will be at the Wangaratta Library on Friday, 11 July from 2.30pm, in an event hosted by Edgars Books and News.
Bookings are essential, and can be made by phoning 5721 2366, emailing library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or online at https://edgarsbooksandnews. com.au/andromache-launchwith-gabriel-bergmoser/
The latest book recommendations
walking through Scotland.
The June gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, 11 June and a variety of books were shared.
Non-fiction
The Salt Path - Raynor Winn (Published in 2018)
This is the best selling story of an English couple who, through no fault of their own find themselves homeless in their 50s.
Not only that but Moth, Raynor’s husband of 32 years, has recently been diagnosed with Corticobasal Degeneration - a rare form of dementia that affects memory, movement and thinking.
With few other options they set off to walk the south West Coast Path in South West England - some 630 miles.
They wild-camp, having only basic sleeping bags and tent, minimal food and money.
This becomes a remarkable journey with many unexpected outcomes.
Raynor wrote this story as a birthday present for her husband to help him remember their adventures.
She hadn’t intended it to be published, but her children insisted it should be.
It has since been made into a movie and been followed by two more books, The Wild Silence, published in 2020 - walking in Iceland, and Landlines, published in 2022 -
Each of these books is life affirming and covers issues such as homelessness and the stigma surrounding it, grief, trust, illness, resilience, friendship, community and most importantly the healing power of the natural world and why we need to protect it.
They are stories of hope triumphing over despair.
There is a new book to be released in October this year entitled On Winter Hill.
Fiction
Ordinary People - Diana Evans
The story of two wealthy multicultural couples living in cosmopolitan London, and the way their relationships start fracturing in the stress of modern life.
Contemporary London and the daily lives of Londoners are very well caught, and as the narrative proceeds, we start forming strong opinions on the characters as though they are people we actually know.
One Hundred Years Of BettyDebra Oswald
The imagined life of a woman living through a century of massive social and political change.
On the eve of her hundredth birthday, Betty tells of the important events in her long life.
Born in London, and surviving the Blitz, Betty moved to Australia after the war and became involved in protest movements and Women’s Liberation.
Now she celebrates her 100th birthday in the after-
math of the Covid pandemic.
While Betty is not a real person, the author drew inspiration from the life of her own mother.
Black Wattle Lake - Pamela Cook
‘A captivating story of learning how to forgive, for those who long to discover who they used to be and who they still might become’.
For Eve Campbell, walking up the driveway of her childhood home stirs up a whirlwind of emotion.
Now the house is empty and the tragedy of the past comes flooding back.
Her first impulse is to sell the farm and get out as soon as she can, but soon she starts discovering the girl she used to be, adventurous, animal-loving and vulnerable.
Then tragedy strikes once more.
This leads to the second book in the series, A Place Of Her Own
She is finally settling down on the farm but trouble arrives when her cheating ex-husband turns up at the door to stake his claim on the property and spoil her new relationship with the local vet.
Follow this with Out Of The Ashes, describing the aftermath of devastating bushfires that have destroyed her home. Can she rebuild her life from here?
A very enjoyable Australian series, to be read in sequence to have the full effect.
Local author to share personal journey, at library
Local author and professional speaker Chi Chi Wang invites the community to an inspiring event centred around her latest book, From Ugly to Beautiful Without Surgery, at the Wangaratta Library.
Chi Chi will explore a question that resonates deeply in today’s image-driven world: “What if your presence could help reshape how people - especially the next generation - see themselves”?
Her message couldn’t be more timely - statistics from the Butterfly Foundation for body image and eating disorders suggests 73 per cent of Australians wish they could change the way they look. Children today are growing up under the weight of unrealistic and often unattainable beauty standards and as a result, many struggle with low self-esteem, endure bullying at school, and even feel compelled to consider cosmetic surgery in an effort to fit in or feel accepted.
Chi Chi’s book and talk shine a light on the damaging effects of these standards and offer a hopeful, empowering alternative.
Drawing from her personal journey, global insights and research-backed strategies, Chi Chi shares how confidence and self-worth can be rebuilt from within.
Her stories are raw, relatable, and ultimately uplifting, encouraging each of us to become changemakers in our communities.
Meet Chi Chi Wang on Thursday, 10 July at 6.30pm at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street.
Bookings are essential via Humanitix or contact the library on 5721 2366 or library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.
NEW BOOK: Gabriel Bergmoser will speak about his July release, ‘Andromache in the Dark’ (inset), during an upcoming visit to the Wangaratta Library.
With Pauline Moncrieff, The Book Circle
Rainfall welcomed, but tough season takes toll
Like many local cattle producers, Killawarra farmer Emma Iddison was happy to finally see some rainfall last week amid challenging times.
Some 50mm fell on her Windswept Holdings property, and while it has helped replenish dams, the impact of drought conditions is still being felt.
Emma halved her cattle operation this season due to lack of feed, has had been purchasing supplemental feed (hay, silage, and forage sorghum) and is anticipating a slow recovery despite the recent rain due to cold weather.
“This season has been tough,” she said.
“We have had to halve our cows, selling them while they are still in good condition and that has helped buy feed for our remaining stock.
“Recent rainfall is positive but we’ve had paddocks locked up since autumn and or late summer and we have seen little to no growth, as it’s so cold we’re not going to see any significant growth until it warms up again.”
Emma said she reduced hay and silage yields in the previous season and expects to remain on the back foot for the coming season.
“Last year we didn’t get a lot of rain at the right time so our yield of silage and hay was behind, and so are our reserves,” she said.
“The rain is certainly positive and a lot of paddocks are looking a lot better now...going forward we are just going to need to adapt.”
Last week’s rainfall of between 30mm to 70mm throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta is the heaviest seen since March, and delivered the wettest month of the year, which has be punctuated by below average rainfall.
Wangaratta-based Corcoran
BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au
Parker livestock agent Reiley Murtagh said despite the drier year the current cattle market remains strong and he is optimistic looking into spring for local cattle farmers.
“While the past 18 months have been challenging, the recent rainfall is positive for spring pasture growth,” he said.
“The rainfall is putting moisture into the ground which is normal for our winter and sets people up for growth in the spring.
“Due to the dry times, we are seeing people having to sell to downscale their operations, but this rainfall is bringing some positivity so if people are prepared to keep feeding their cattle over this month and the next, they are going to be in the box seat for the future as we are still seeing strong cattle prices and high demand, particularly from northern New South Wales and southern Queensland.”
WJune and that has definitely gotten a few people a bit more relaxed and relieved, but it has still been a very challenging season.
eather conditions across the North East are having an impact across local agricultural industries, with recent rainfall offering a small respite in the face of an overall challenging season for local crop growers.
Wangaratta-based Nutrien Ag Solutions agronomist Claire Wilson said farmers in the region have faced challenges in the growing season due to the erratic rainfall.
“The region had rainfall mid-March which gave some early moisture, so if people had crops in and seeded, they managed to drag through going off that moisture in the topsoil,” she said.
“But we didn’t end up having a decent rain until mid-
Interstate movement of fodder into Victoria
Ongoing drought conditions are creating significant challenges for Victoria’s livestock industry, particularly a critical shortage of fodder, with farmers needing to look interstate to source supply.
Biosecurity permits for fodder movement are being prioritised with a two-business day turnaround and inspection fees are being waived.
Agriculture Victoria is providing a free and tailored service to suppliers, transporters and farmers to help them efficiently navigate the permit requirements to bring feed into Victoria while managing biosecurity risks.
To apply for a permit call 136 186.
“The split in those decent rainfalls has meant we’ve had seven to eight weeks between germination and growth which now poses some big challenges in terms of what we can do from a chemistry and herbicide point of view in terms of weeds and pest pressure.
“Delayed planting and growth due to insufficient rainfall has meant split germination which has resulted in uneven crop growth and increased pest vulnerability including red legs and lucerne flea, impacting both crops and pastures.
“We have crops growing at different rates which means we can’t follow the usual routine.
“This season has been challenging and has meant we have all had to adapt, but anyone in the industry will tell you that no two seasons are ever the same.”
Mental health support for farming communities
Back On Track is an innovative, peerguided mental health initiative designed to support farming communities.
Funded by the Gardiner Foundation and led by the National Centre for Farmer Health, this program focuses on improving mental health outcomes for farmers by providing practical, culturally appropriate support delivered by trusted community members.
The program has been co-designed with farming communities.
for more details got to https:// farmerhealth.org.au/back-on-track
is in running for Halliday Winery of the Year
By ANITA McPHERSON
Beechworth winery Giaconda has made the shortlist for the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Winery of the Year; the only North East Victorian producer to feature on this year’s list.
Halliday Wine Companion has unveiled its shortlisted wineries, winemakers and viticulturists ahead of the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Awards, which will be announced on Wednesday, 20 August in Melbourne.
The Halliday tasting team reviewed over 8,000 wines across more than 945 wineries this year, with over 60 new producers submitting their wines for the first time.
Seven major trophies will be awarded in August, including Wine of the Year, Winemaker of the Year, Winery of the Year, Viticulturist of the Year, Best Value Winery, Best New Winery, Dark Horse Winery, together with the third inductee into the James Halliday Hall of Fame: Australian Wine Industry.
The winners of 17 varietal categories will also be announced, with grenache judged as a straight varietal wine for the first time this year.
Wine lovers can cast their vote for the 2026 People’s Choice Award on winecompanion.com. au.
Wangaratta Livestock
CHALLENGING TIMES: Killawarra cattle producer Emma Iddison has halved her herd and is buying in feed for her stock.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 What is a rebellion (6)
7 To make more compact, is to do what (8)
8 To pass from a solid state to a gas, is to do what (6)
9 What is a wild hyacinth (8)
11 Which term implies a strong feeling (7)
13 Montgomery is the capital of which US State (7)
15 What do we call foes (7)
17 Who is engaged in military service (7)
20 What is used for making fireproof articles (8)
23 To swallow ravenously, is to do what (6)
24 What are some lights called (8)
25 Topeka is the capital of which US State (6)
DOWN
1 What might we call a stupid person (4)
2 Name a major part of speech (6)
3 Which term means formerly (4)
4 What is a royal domain known as (5)
5 What are manservants (6)
6 Which game is similar to bingo (5)
10 Who are those in the forefront (7)
12 Which people tend the sick (6)
14 To be highly offensive, is to be what (6)
16 What might we call a victor (6)
18 What is a musical drama (5)
19 Name some British noblemen (5)
E-QUATIONS 7
21 What is a bed on a ship (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
(a)
9 What are items of facial hair (6)
Letters have a number value
22 When one possesses, one does what (4)
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Solve the
Each answer has four letters.
(a) To become better (b) To assail by words or arguments (c) To attribute or ascribe
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Animal hair (3)
Late artist: Margaret ... (5)
Beer drawn from keg (7)
Cloud type (7)
IOC Code: Croatia (3)
Shows violent anger (5) Suspect (coll) (3) Timid (3)
Unconscious states (5) Young horses (5)
CLEAN CUT: Here is an opportunity to expand your lawn mowing business or if you’re just starting out, Clean Cut has a number of accounts with an excellent wellestablished clientele who have been with Clean Cut for a long time. Please allow us to discuss this opportunity with you by contacting Chris at 0427 523 293.
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.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
WHEELER
Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
FREE accommodation, 5 nights in the Fiji Coral Coast. Email jancag18@gmail. com
MOBILITY
SCOOTER
Preloved and low kms Excellent condition, brand new batteries
First to see will buy $2100 at 10 Billabong Drive, Wangaratta Ph 0407 608 929
(if no answer please leave message)
WANTED universal roof bars and accessories to suit Toyota Rav call Peter on 0408 308 284.
2013 Landcruiser wagon, turbo diesel, auto, black leather 7 seats, bull-bar, towball, 192,000km, reg (1LG5AX), $70,000. Ph 0429 619 598.
1993 Subory Brumby, needs a little work, not registered, VIN JF3AU5PR016533439, $1500. Phone Mick 0434 078 509.
2004 Ford Fairmont Sedan, good condition, mileage 341,000km, VIN 6FPAAAJGSW4C96098, located Wangaratta, $3750. Ph 0437 172 131.
2007 Ford Ranger, 4 door space cab, new injectors, new tyres, mileage 236,000km, VIN MNALSIE907VS47995, located Wangaratta, $11,500. Ph 0437 172 131.
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
O ’BRIENS heavy duty off-road camper trailer, 100% Australian made, heavy duty canvas, queen size bed, slide out kitchen with 85L fridge freezer run from 2x 100amp batteries charged from 2x solar panels and 240v or DC to DC chargers, 2 burner LPG stove with griller and 2 gas bottles, 60L water tank, heaps of storage, new tyres, plus many more extras including a top fold over boat carrier, $4800. Ph 0421 171 050.
Administration/ Classifieds Maternity Leave Position
12 Months Contract
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
AHRENS, John. 12/12/1949 - 24/6/2025
Passed away at Northeast Health, Wangaratta with his family by his side. Devoted husband of Julie. Loved father of Matt and Terri and Dene and Coby. Adored Grandpa of Tex.
John has left behind a legacy of love, kindness and strength.
CHESHIRE, Geoffrey Allen. 24/5/1936 – 24/6/2025 Late of Boorhaman, formerly of Burrowye. Passed away peacefully at St John’s Respect Aged Care, Wangaratta.
Loved husband of Betty. Loved father and mentor of Andrew, Dianne and David. Father-in-law of Mary-Ellen, Ken and Sandra. Grandpa of Elena, Lauren, Alexandra, Ashley, William and Luke. Great-Grandpa of eight grandchildren. Step-Grandfather of Jackie and Brendan. Rest peacefully.
CHESHIRE, Geoffrey Allen.
24/5/1936 - 24/6/2025.
Loving father of Andrew, father-in-law to Mary-Ellen, grandfather to our daughters Elena, Lauren and Alexandra, and great-grandfather to their eight beautiful children. Finally at rest.
The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. For further information or to make a donation please contact:
AHRENS
The funeral service to celebrate the life of John Ahrens will be held graveside at the Beechworth Lawn Cemetery, Balaclava Road, Beechworth on Thursday, July 3 commencing at 10.30am.
As a meaningful tribute to John, a donation made in his honour to the Heart Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made online at www.heartfoundation.org.au/donate
CHESHIRE
A funeral service to honour the life of Geoffrey will be held at North East Funerals – Bell Room, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta tomorrow, Tuesday, July 1, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. In lieu of flowers, donations to Dementia Australia would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made online at www.donate.dementia.org.au.
Geoffrey’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au/livestream A private burial will follow the service.
Personal Notices
may be placed before 2pm the business day prior to publication
Phone: 03
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Marc Bongers made his way down to the local hockey to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle office.
ETHAN PARKINSON
WILLIAM REILLY
SIMON LIPSHUT
CHRISTOPHER MUNZEL
ARLO RIVETT
AARON RHODES
WINNERS AND LOSERS
ALBURY 1.3 9.5 12.7 15.10.100 WANG ROVERS 3.5
GOALS: ALBURY: J. Pitt 3, M. Walker 3, K. Heiner-Hennessy 3, J. Kelly 1, T. Quade 1, R. Garthwaite 1, E. Ziebarth 1, J. Gaynor 1, W. Bowden 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: T. Boyd 4, W. Christie 3, S. Murray 3, B. Filo 1, A. McCarthy 1, S. Comensoli 1. BEST: ALBURY: B. Kelly, R. Garthwaite, J. Kelly, J. Pitt, W. Bowden, M. Duncan. WANGARATTA ROVERS: E. Dayman, j. lewis, L. McCartney, T. Boyd.
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: N. Dennis 3, L. Taylor 3, T. Broomhead 2, J. Mooney 1, J. Reynolds 1, F. Gardiner 1, J. Penny 1. WODONGA: N. Spiteri 4, T. Johnson 3, A. Jorgensen 2, T. Miller 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: J. Mooney, Z. Lambert, J. Penny, N. Dennis, L. Taylor, J. Hayes. WODONGA: A. Jorgensen, N. Bradshaw, C. Morrison, T. O’Sullivan, N. Spiteri, T. Johnson. NORTH ALBURY
NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS
A GRADE
Wodonga Raiders 48 def Corowa Rutherglen 40 Lavington 54 def Myrtleford 42 Albury 51 def Wangaratta Rovers 36 Wangaratta 44 def Yarrawonga 40 North Albury 57 def Wodonga 47 B GRADE
Wodonga Raiders 47 def by Corowa Rutherglen 49 Lavington 46 def by Myrtleford 49 Albury 22 def by Wangaratta Rovers 39 Wangaratta 47 def Yarrawonga 45 North Albury 45 def Wodonga 44 C GRADE
Wodonga Raiders 38 def by Corowa Rutherglen 40 Lavington 34 def by Myrtleford 53 Albury 22 def by Wangaratta Rovers 61 Wangaratta 42 def by Yarrawonga 48 North Albury 40 def by Wodonga 50 17 & UNDER
Wodonga Raiders 60 def Corowa Rutherglen 26 Lavington 42 def by Myrtleford 48 Albury 39 def by Wangaratta Rovers 60 Wangaratta 52 def Yarrawonga 36 North Albury 39 def by Wodonga 47 15 & UNDER
Wodonga Raiders 70 def Corowa Rutherglen 19 Lavington 29 def by Myrtleford 39 Albury 25 def by Wangaratta Rovers 26 Wangaratta 43 def Yarrawonga 40 North Albury 31 def by Wodonga 59
Wangaratta 17.7 (109) def Yarrawonga 3.4 (22)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: H. Barry 4, C. Kerwin 3, L. Sims 2, H. Laverty 2, J. Parker 2, J. Blake 1, K. McPhan 1, W. Petersen 1. YARRAWONGA: L. Eales 1, A. Jaques 1, J. Woodhead 1.
BEST: WANGARATTA H. Laverty, A. Jayet, E. Clayton, C. Kerwin, W. Petersen, T. Berry. YARRAWONGA: A. Jaques, X. Mitchell, O. Watson, S. Bigger, C. Webster, t. baxter.
Albury 4.12 (36) def by Wang Rovers 12.6 (78)
GOALS: ALBURY: J. Quade 1, B. Tinworth 1, N. Conway 1, L. Reid 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: R. McNamara 3, J. Correll 2, M. Semmens 2, E. Saunders 1, C. Curr 1, Z. O’Shannessy 1, C. Maher 1, J. Marek 1.
BEST: ALBURY: J. Quade, L. Reid, R. Coyne, k. Piltz, N. Welch, S. O’Connell. WANGARATTA ROVERS: H. Dodgshun, E. White, J. Wohlers, M. Semmens, A. Direen, C. Miller.
Lavington 15.17 (107) def Myrtleford 3.3 (21)
GOALS: LAVINGTON: I. Robertson 4, C. Hall 2, A. Russell 1, C. Way 1, W. Dickins 1, R. Griffiths 1, C. Webb 1, J. McGrath 1, N. Edmunds 1, F. Scott 1, R. Costello 1. MYRTLEFORD: T. Cooper 1, H. Stripeikis 1, S. Crisp 1.
BEST: LAVINGTON: A. Russell, C. Hall, R. Costello, T. Goonan, F. Scott, C. Way. MYRTLEFORD: W. Graham, O. Benson, J. Notarianni, N. McMonagle, B. McMasters, T. Miller.
North Albury 1.2 (8) def by Wodonga 16.19 (115) Raiders 10.8 (68) def Corowa R’glen 3.7 (25)
GOALS: LAVINGTON: T. Oosterhoff 3, J. Costello 2, C. Sanson 2, A. Swinnerton 2, N. Sedgwick 1, J. Driscoll 1, J. Glanvill 1, D. Smith 1, E. Perryman 1. MYRTLEFORD: R. Sharp 3, J. East 2, D. Bren 1, K. Agosta 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: E. Perryman, W. Glanvill, J. Hart, N. Paton, J. Driscoll, J. Glanvill. MYRTLEFORD: R. Smith, M. Tenardi, S. Curtis, D. Bren, R. Sharp, M. Dalbosco. LAVINGTON 4.3 7.5
WOD. RAIDERS 1.5 2.8 6.11 8.14.62 COROWA R’GLEN 2.2 8.5 11.6 14.9.93
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: M. Way 2, H. Gray 1, I. Kotzur 1, A. Scammell 1, B. Wilson 1, C. Anderson 1, C. St John 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: B. Kantilla 5, K. Bradtke 3, F. Osborne 2, B. Morton 1, N. Amery 1, J. Ugle 1, L. Mccarthy 1. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: I. Kotzur, N. Bracher, C. Rich, H. Cribbes, W. Fordham, B. O’Neill. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: T. Forrest, B. Kantilla, J. Rowston, J. Foote, J. Ugle, J. Cresswell.
WANGARATTA 7.6 8.11 11.12 14.15.99 YARRAWONGA
GOALS: WANGARATTA: X. Laverty 4, M. Hedin 2, J. Tweedale 2, C. Knowles 2, J. Clarke 1, B. Melville 1, W. Tua 1, O. Boyle 1. YARRAWONGA: B. Kennedy 3, N. Irvine 2, N. Fothergill 1, J. Hargreaves 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: B. Melville, X. Laverty, C. Knowles, J. Clarke, A. Federico, H. Hewitt. YARRAWONGA: M. McCabe, N. Irvine, T. Lovell, H. Wheeler, J. Urquhart, B. Keenes.
Dickins, T. Muldoon, D. Flanagan, D. Mullins, J. James. North Albury 11 9 (75) Wodonga 6 8 (44)
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: B. Escott, C. Iannelli, B. Spurr, D. Clancy, O. Bruce, J. Clancy. WODONGA: E. Thornber, R. Thompson, G. McKimmie. Lavington 15 9 (99) Myrtleford 8 6 (54)
BEST: LAVINGTON: L. Gaffney, D. Beavan, S. Webb, C. Clemson, H. Barber, C. McCrae. MYRTLEFORD: C. Crisp, N. Ferguson, J. Riley, N. Turner, H. McKerral, R. Grant.
Wodonga Raiders 7 8 (50) Corowa Rutherglen 4 7 (31)
BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: C. Howells, J. Marx, J. Cannell, C. Smith, B. Knights, Z. Sartore. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Johnstone, J. Kuschert, D. Yates, P. Whyte, J. Richardson, M. Lavis.
Albury 6 5 (41) Wangaratta Rovers 6 7 (43)
BEST: ALBURY: D. Buntin, J. Shanahan, B. Hodgson, R. Tuckwell, O. Sharman, D. Pattinson. WANGARATTA ROVERS: B. Paul, K. Smith, S. Allen, W. Ashton, M. Powell, S. Rourke.
ROUND 12
SATURDAY, JULY 5
LAVINGTON VS WANG ROVERS
MYRTLEFORD VS WANGARATTA
YARRAWONGA VS COROWA RUTHERGLEN
ALBURY VS NORTH ALBURY RAIDERS VS WODONGA
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith 8, T. Nanson 4, L. McDonell 2, J. Nanson 1, WHOROULY: M. Newton 7, B. Harrington 1, G. White 1, E. Bramich 1, M. Robinson 1. BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith, T. Nanson, K. McQuade, J. Devine, J. Adamo, J. Kemp, WHOROULY: D. Hoy-Maroney, M. Vescio, M. Scott, D. O’Shannessy, M. Newton, D. Boyle.
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE: North Wangaratta 15 def by Whorouly 74; Milawa 76 def Benalla 41; King Valley 39 def by Moyhu 54; Tarrawingee 50 def Bonnie Doon 31; Bright 47 def Greta 32.
B GRADE: North Wangaratta 25 def by Whorouly 45; Milawa 64 def Benalla 26; King Valley 28 def by Moyhu 54; Tarrawingee 32 def by Bonnie Doon 35; Bright 54 def Greta 42.
B RESERVE: North Wangaratta 18 def by Whorouly 55; King Valley 34 def by Moyhu 49; Tarrawingee 25 def by Bonnie Doon 49; Milawa 31 def by Benalla 34; Bright 36 def by Greta 42.
C GRADE: North Wangaratta 21 def by Whorouly 29; King Valley 37 def by Moyhu 38; Tarrawingee 22 def by Bonnie Doon 58; Milawa 39 def Benalla 19; Bright 25 def by Greta 42. 15 & UNDER: North Wangaratta 10 def by Whorouly 27; Tarrawingee 12 def by Bonnie Doon 74; Bright 20 def Greta 23; Milawa 35 def by Benalla 44. No other scores available at time of print
ROUND 14
SAT, JULY 5
MOYHU VS TARRAWINGEE
BENALLA VS GRETA
BONNIE DOON VS GOORAMBAT
KING VALLEY VS WHOROULY
NTH WANGARATTA VS MILAWA
BRIGHT - BYE
GOALS: MILAWA: B. Bartlett 10, A. Law 5, H. Allan 5, B. Kearns 4, H. Graham 4, T. Dunn 2, R. Mckay 2, J. Lea 1, H. Kebede 1, J. Wall 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: F. Horsburgh 1, D. Broughton 1. BEST: MILAWA: A. Law, B. Bartlett, H. Graham, D. Bihun, H. Kebede, T. Dunn. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: K. Linke, J. Walker, T. Levy, A. Hillaire, F. Horsburgh, S. Cox.
GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: N. Redley 2, S. Peters 1, N. Gorman 1. BONNIE DOON: L. James 3, J. Sanford 3, B. Smith 2, K. Longstaff 2, F. Butterworth 1, C. Smedley 1, E. Ivill 1, P. Cairns 1. BEST: TARRAWINGEE: T. Heywood, O. Sharp, N. Redley, T. Hogan, W. Creed, S. Peters. BONNIE DOON: L. James, B. Smith, J. Sanford, K. Longstaff, J. Magro, F. Butterworth.
Dalbosco
Crawford
J. McClounan
X. Wales
L. Kennett
T. Arrowsmith 1, J. Kelly 1, O. Ramage 1.
BEST: BRIGHT: R. Bacon, C. Thomson, H. Jamieson, C. Thomason, J. Hudghton. GRETA: C. Crawford, M. Wettern, T. Arrowsmith, L. Kennett, J. McClounan, J. Kelly.
Magpies trounce Pigeons to go
even at the top of O&M table
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Wangaratta’s senior football squad can be happy with their performance at home on Saturday, knocking over Yarrawonga to the tune of 52 points.
The Magpies entered the match heavy favourites and produced a tremendous first quarter on their way to a 14.15 (99) to 7.5 (47) victory.
The home side dominated play early, generating a seven-goal opening term with six minor scores.
Defensively, the Magpies were on song, conceding only three goals to head into quarter time with a 28-point lead.
Wangaratta continued
their strong form across the three lines through the second term, with the match becoming more contested, with the Pigeons bringing the margin in by three points by half-time.
The scorers had a relatively quiet third term, with the Magpies kicking 3.1 to the Pigeons’ one major, leading to a 38-point advantage heading into the fourth quarter.
The defensive pressure went to another level, with Wangaratta’s backline conceding just seven points, while their forwards heaped on the damage.
Magpies’ coach Jason Heatley said it was a comprehensive full-team performance.
“We certainly hit the ground running and got some scoreboard pressure on them, we were pretty active with our ball movement, so that gives us a buffer we could manage,” he said.
“The game shut down during the second and third quarters, they certainly were a lot more aggressive, especially around the footy, and they had moments when they were well on top, but I thought we finished it out pretty well.
“It’s a full-ground composition for us, we try and set up defensively pretty solid, and that’s where it starts from.”
With the competition being as close at it is, per-
centage is becoming vitally important for teams to set themselves heading into finals.
Despite a three quarter time lead in excess of six goals, the Magpies wanted to make a statement.
“We actually thought we could have been a bit more aggressive around the footy and aggressive with getting the ball back from them,” Heatley said.
“They probably had the better part of the third quarter, definitely early, in the first 10 minutes or so they were on top then we got the game back on our terms.
“It certainly wasn’t about letting the game peter out, we wanted to get up on
them and see if we could stretch them a little bit more, which we did.”
Brad Melville, Xavier Laverty (four goals), and Chris Knowles were all named among the best on ground for the ‘Pies, but Heatley said the team had 22 contributors.
“It was a pretty even effort, I thought,” he said.
“I thought [Chris] Knowles around the footy gave us first use, those key around the footy, [Alex] Federico, [Jackson] Clarke, [Harrison] Hewitt – and I could name a couple more – they were all pretty damaging early.
“Young Owain Boyle was very solid, I thought Waitai Tua executed well, Harry Smart off the half back line
was really busy.
“We got some good overlap run off our half back line – considering we were missing [Cam] Barrett and [Matt] Grossman on the weekend as well, so it was a bit of a different look.
“It enabled us to have [Aiden] Tilley setting up down the line, and he’s at his best when he’s intercepting.”
Elsewhere, it was a tough day for Wangaratta Rovers, defeated by Albury 13.14 (92) to 15.10 (100).
It’s tight at the top of the ladder, with Lavington, Rovers, Magpies and North Albury even on 32 points, with Myrtleford sitting in the top five ahead of the Tigers on percentage.
EVADE AND ESCAPE: Jasper Craven looks to shake the tackle from Tyler Lovell.
four goals on the weekend.
AT SPEED: Alex Federico kicks on the run.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
MATCH REVIEWS
More twists and turns in Ovens & King senior football with stunning results recorded in another big round
■ From back page
The result brings Bright back to parity with Greta, with 10 wins each, but the Mountain Men still lead by more than 75 percentage points.
Elsewhere, it was a dream win for North Wangaratta over Whorouly, with the Hawks overcoming a fivegoal deficit early to run out winners 15.13 (103) to the Lions’ 11.10 (76).
The Lions got the jump early, leading by 24 points at quarter time, but North Wangaratta worked their way into the match as it continued.
The Hawks’ midfield got on top through the second quarter, bringing the margin to nine points at half-time.
Whorouly came out firing in the third and dominated play, but weren’t able to con vert it onto the scoreboard, with North Wangaratta focus ing on weathering the storm.
The fourth quarter saw the Hawks explode, with Corey Smith (eight goals for the match) and Tyler Nanson (four) stunning up forward, booting three each while limiting the Lions to just two goals, securing the win by 27 points.
Hawks co-coach Steve Man ning said his side could take pride for fighting hard to come from behind.
“On the scoreboard we were five goals down at one point, but we felt like it was pretty even in the first half, we just missed our opportu nities,” he said.
“Going into the second quarter, we made sure to get back to what the plan was, that was to put that pressure on through the midfield and start winning some centre clearance.
“We were about +10 in clearance in that second quarter, we started getting some midfield dominance and we started getting some early looks into our forward line, and things started to turn.
“We were definitely for tunate to be as close as we were, but to our boys’ credit we didn’t panic, we stuck together and knew the mo ments and opportunities were going to come for us.”
The result keeps the season alive for North Wangaratta, denying the Lions a two-game buffer and actually leapfrog ging them into the six with a superior percentage.
In other matches, Moyhu secured back-to-back vic tories for the first time this season with a narrow sevenpoint win over King Valley, 10.10 (70) to 9.9 (63).
Milawa’s Brady Bartlett kicked 10 goals in the De mons’ 35.11 (221) to 2.1 (13) dismemberment of Benalla All Blacks, while Bonnie Doon took the points over Tarrawingee 14.14 (98) to 4.6 (30).
OVERLAP RUN: Cameron Chamberlain looks for a runner to come by. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
GOING FOR GOALS: Joel Sanford kicked three goals for the Bombers in their win over Tarrawingee.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
QUICK HANDS: North Wangaratta’s Jayden Adamo fires off a handball. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
UNSTOPPABLE: Jarrod Morham bursts through the tackle from Zander Dalbosco in Greta’s dominant win. PHOTO: Charlotte Kilner
CLEARANCE
Blues get even, Hawks soar
More twists and turns in Ovens & King senior football with stunning results recorded
It was another wild round of senior football in the Ovens and King league on Saturday, which produced some shock upsets with major ramifica tions for the ladder.
Up at Bright’s Pioneer Park, reigning premiers Greta avenged their first-round loss to the Mountain Men with a dominant four-quarter display.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
The Blues were in control for almost the entire match, taking the victory 14.13 (97) to 8.8 (56).
For the first time this season, Bright were kept to a goalless first quarter, with Greta
producing 11 scoring shots to three to take a 28-point lead into the first break.
Momentum would continue to flow towards Greta for the rest of the match, with Bright struggling to convert on chances in their forward half.
A six-goal lead at the half grew to 43-points through the third quarter, the ball seem-
ingly living in Greta’s forward 50, with Bright managing a few goals against the run of play.
Greta coach Chris Dube said it was their best four-quarter effort so far this season.
“We set up through the midfield and forward a bit differently, we had some different combinations, and we really maximised where we
could get on top of Bright,” he said.
“It was sort of a differentlooking game in the sense both sides had a couple of regulars out, so it forced us to do some different stuff.
“We had a clear plan, and it was clearly our best fourquarter performance this year to date.
“We pride ourselves on be-
ing hard to play against, and we’ll be the first to admit we haven’t done that as well over the last couple of months as we would’ve liked.
“On Saturday, it was set up well, but ultimately the players executed that plan – it was four quarters and it felt like we were really committed to the cause.”
■ Continued page 19
Bradley Melville found space at the stoppage to release a handball during his Wangaratta Magpies’ 52-point demolition of Yarrawonga during their senior O&M battle on Saturday. The Magpies are even on points with three other teams at the top of the ladder. Story page 18
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie