Chronicle Friday 210624

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Sunday, June 23 Wangaratta Rovers vs Wangaratta

Health authorities warn of surge in respiratory illnesses, aided by

LOCAL health authorities are urging the community to maintain healthy practices as the seasonal upswing in respiratory illness hits full swing.

Amid freezing winter weather - down to -4.3 degrees this week - Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) has observed sustained periods of high demand

WJ FINDLAY OVAL 15 & Under - 9am; Thirds 10am 17 & Under 10:20am; C Grade 11:40am; Reserves noon A Grade 1pm - Seniors 2pm B Grade 2:20pm BY BAILEY

ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

due to respiratory illnesses among the community and has urged people to take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.

NHW executive director of clinical services,

Bernadette Hammond, said the service was seeing an increase in respiratory illness presentations, including a combination of in uenza, COVID-19, RSV and other disease.

“Those requiring hospitalisation for, or with respiratory illness, need to be isolated, to support their treatment and for the

protection of other patients and sta ,” she said.

“Steps you can take to protect yourself and others include washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and wearing a mask when you can’t social distance.

“We encourage people to be vigilant in protecting

themselves and others against respiratory disease by implementing the simple hygiene practices we’ve noted and getting vaccinated.”

According to statistics from the Immunisation Coalition and National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, in uenza vaccination coverage has dropped signi cantly across

all age groups in Australia compared to the same period last year.

Managing director Northeast General Practice Services, Kim Ching, said South Wangaratta Medical Centre has experienced similar trends with low immunisation coverage, which has become a concern.

■ Continued page 2

THE unique rivalry between Wangaratta’s two Ovens and Murray clubs will be on show again this Sunday, as Wangaratta Rovers host Wangaratta Magpies in the second derby of the season. Among locals anticipating clashes which o en pit friends, neighbours, colleagues and classmates against each other are Galen Catholic College students and sta members (back) Rovers thirds vice-captain Sam Rourke, Magpies thirds co-captain Hugh Canning, (middle) Rovers netballer Bec Kreltszheim, Magpies netballer Rose Henry, (front) Magpies senior footballer Nick Richards and Rovers parent supporter Emma Shanley. STORY PAGE 2

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Rivalry in close proximity

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

A UNIQUE sporting rivalry which often sees friends, neighbours, work colleagues and classmates pitted against each other will switch into gear again this Sunday, as Wangaratta Rovers host Wangaratta Magpies in round 10 of Ovens and Murray football and netball competition.

While the feeling between the neighbouring clubs may not quite be at the fever-pitch of bygone eras - sparked in the early days of the Hawks’ entry into the O&M - there is nevertheless always a little extra crackle in the air when the clubs face o .

Ladder position, form and available personnel can count for less in these hometown clashes than in xtures against other league clubs, as the Hawks and ‘Pies vie for Monday morning bragging rights.

The situation is probably most pronounced in local schools, where players of all ages who will line up against each other on the weekend are in close proximity, and also surrounded by supporters of opposing teams for both the lead-up and the a er-e ects.

At Galen Catholic College, for instance, Magpies thirds co-captain Hugh Canning and Rovers thirds vice-captain Sam Rourke have been engaged in

year 12 studies this week while also preparing for Sunday’s topof-the-table clash between their rival clubs.

The Hawks are atop the thirds

ladder, with the ‘Pies hot on their tails.

Wangaratta Magpies’ netballer Rose Henry, a fellow Galen student whose dad Jon is co-

president and a Hall of Fame member at the ‘Pies, admits the competitive instinct emerges when it’s a case of taking the court against friends.

Galen teacher Bec Kreltszheim also relishes the chance to step it up against the hometown rivals.

She and other Hawks players will be cheered on this Sunday at the WJ Findlay Oval by Rovers supporters including fellow Galen sta member Emma

Meanwhile, in the senior football clash - the 161st between the two clubs (for the record, 97 of them won by the Rovers and 62 by the ‘Pies, with one draw)Galen College learning support mentor Nick Richards will be among those playing for honour, as the h-placed ‘Pies take on the third-placed Rovers.

1989 was the last year the two Wangaratta teams met in a nal, and they could be on track to do so again 35 years later, which would be sure to accentuate the rivalry.

To get a taste of Sunday’s action, be at the WJ Findlay Oval (Rovers ground) from 9am, when both clubs’ under 15 netballers will kick o derby day.

■ Further previews in SPORT

Health authorities warn of surge in respiratory illnesses

■ From page 1

“The statistics on declining u vaccination rates across Australia are quite alarming,” she said.

“The overall decrease in u vaccination rates, ranging from eight per cent in schoolaged children to 14.4 per cent in the elderly population, is a cause for grave concern.

“These low vaccination levels put individuals at risk and jeopardise herd immunity, which is crucial for protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.”

Ms Ching said the factors contributing to the declines rates of immunization are

multifaceted, including cost and accessibility issues, lack of public awareness and vaccine hesitancy.

“We must address this issue proactively, healthcare providers, including general practitioners, play a vital role in encouraging and facilitating vaccination and are supported by robust public health initiatives and consistent messaging from the government,” she said.

“Let’s do our part by getting our annual u shots and encouraging friends, family, colleagues and neighbours to do likewise.

“Every immunisation helps to increase community-wide

immunity and safeguard our most vulnerable members; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Bruce Robertson, owner of Robertson’s Pharmacy in Phillipson Street, has seen a de nite upswing in reported u cases in recent weeks, and high demand for in uenza vaccinations.

“All of our clinics we’ve been running are fully booked and because some of our sta are taking holidays, our capacity is full,” he said.

“We can make arrangements if someone is stuck or feels as though they have to have one, but if there was a surge, we

would struggle to cover it.

“Traditionally the worst u seasons are when it is freezing cold and there is no rain, so it’s on pattern.”

Mr Robertson said he has also observed COVID cases coming back among the community’s elderly, with the virus surging through a local nursing home in recent weeks.

The pharmacy owner said while it’s getting late in the u season for people to organise vaccinations, it’s important they get done to protect the community.

“Just stay healthy and stay warm, spend as little time in freezing cold weather as you can,” he said.

Mr Robertson’s Pharmacy is among 766 pharmacies statewide participating in a pilot program o ering the Wangaratta community access to basic care needs without needing to see a GP.

While he said the program has received a positive reaction from the State Government, it has stretched his pharmacy’s services in order to accommodate for the program’s extra services.

“We’re accessible, but we’re struggling to cope with everything we’re trying to be accessible for,” he said. Free in uenza vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Pro-

gram for groups at higher risk of complications from the u, including young children, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women, people over 65 years of age, and people with immune-related conditions. The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department remains an option for people seeking non-urgent medical assistance from the comfort of home, which can be accessed at www.vved.org.au

NHW reminds people to always call triple zero or attend to the emergency department for life threatening illness or emergencies.

■ EDITORIAL PAGE 8

RIVALRY ON OUR DOORSTEP: Galen Catholic College students and sta members (from le ) Hugh Canning, Bec Kreltszheim, Rose Henry, Nick Richards, Sam Rourke and Emma Shanley get ready for Sunday’s netball and footy meetings between Wangaratta’s two Ovens and

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Decade high criminal incidents

WANGARATTA region’s total number of criminal incidents in the 12 months to March 2024 is the highest recorded in a decade.

In data released yesterday by the Crime Statistics Agency, the Wangaratta local government area (LGA) recorded some 1930 criminal o ences, the highest in the past 10 years of data collection.

It’s also the second highest recorded crime rate of incidents per 100,000 people in the past 10 years at 6412, only

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

surpassed by 2017’s rate of 6483 criminal incidents per 100,000 people.

The 7.6 per cent rise in crime was headlined by a marked increase in damage (200 incidents recorded), the (195) and family violence order breach (173) o ending. For the third consecutive

year, the region sits above the state average rate, which stands at 5686 criminal incidents per 100,000 people.

The region recorded its highest victimisation rate of the past 10 years at 3149 per 100,00 people.

The 14.6 per cent increase in victim reports submitted from the previous year has brought the region signicantly closer to the state average person victimisation rate of 3299.

HAIR TODAY, GONE

TOMORROW: Amy Wighton, with children Leonard, Pamela and Albert, is set to lose her long red locks on Saturday as part of a fundraiser supporting Beyond Blue and its e orts to equip everyone in Australia with the knowledge and skills to achieve their best possible mental health.

Reports submitted by people over the age of 55-years-old continued to increase year-on-year from 151 in 2021 to 242 in 2024.

A majority of Wangaratta’s 1021 alleged o enders for the past year were caught in incidents related to breaches of orders and assault, and were most commonly recorded by males in the ages of over 45-years-old and between the ages of 1824.

THIS week’s below-zero temperatures have not deterred local resident Amy Wighton as she prepares to shave her head tomorrow to raise funds and awareness for mental health.

Rather, Amy said she was excited about the chance to lose her long, curly red locks and go ‘Bald for Beyond’ in her fundraiser for Beyond Blue, to be held during Saturday’s Creatives and Owners Market at the CWA Hall next to the King George Gardens.

Fittingly, the big shave will take place on International Being You Day, which invites people to discover and acknowledge their own beauty and uniqueness.

“My hair has always been a key part of me, and I wanted to promote the fact that our outside appearance is not all that makes us beautiful,” she said.

“I have stocked up on beanies, and I feel like this will be a new adventure - change can be a good thing.”

Amy said she saw staging her head shave at the market as an opportunity to highlight the link between creativity

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

and mental health, having experienced the bene ts creativity could bring in reducing anxiety, depression and stress.

“Having a creative outlet has been an important support for me personally, through theatre, music and cra , as well as providing an opportunity to connect with others in the community through likeminded interests,” she said.

A mum of three and a kindergarten teacher, Amy said current statistics around mental health in Australia were alarming.

“I have decided to play my part in tackling these statistics by raising awareness and funds to support Beyond Blue with its mission ‘to equip everyone in Australia with the knowledge and skills to achieve their best possible mental health’,” she said.

“Mental illness has touched me personally, it has touched my family, it has touched my friends and colleagues.

“It surrounds us daily,

In surrounding LGAs, Wodonga recorded a 19.3 per cent increase on crime for the year to March 2024 at a rate of 7196 criminal o ences per 100,000 people.

Benalla also recorded a higher criminal rate than Wangaratta at 7017, with the s and the s from motor vehicles the main factors in a minor two per cent rise in total incidents.

Strathbogie Shire criminal incidents rose by 16.8 per

cent from last year at 445 total criminal incidents, with the (74) and criminal damage (54) the main types of offences recorded. O ence rates reached a decade high in the Moira Shire, recording a 20 per cent increase in o ences on the past year.

A majority of o ences recorded were spread across Cobrom (874), Yarrawonga (656) and Numurkah (514) townships.

sometimes unknowingly.

“Therefore, it’s extremely important to instil people with the con dence to support those a ected and make anxiety, depression and suicide part of everyday conversations - as well as tackling the stigma, prejudice and discrimination that mental illness can sometimes be met with.”

She said she would have pamphlets and information about Beyond Blue and local mental health services avail-

able at the market tomorrow to help raise awareness of support services .

Amy’s hair loss will be gradual tomorrow, with a series of plaits to be progressively lopped o until the nal shave at 11.30am, and her hair will be donated to Variety to be made into wigs.

“I’ve had lots of people coming up to me and saying that this has provided an opportunity for awareness, and has opened their eyes to speak-

ing with their children about mental health,” Amy said.

“I think it’s important that we let children know at a young age that it’s okay not to be okay, and that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical wellbeing.”

Amy said the ‘Be You’ national mental health and wellbeing initiative, delivered by Beyond Blue in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace, provided educators with resources to use

with children, young people and families, empowering people to achieve their best possible mental health. For more information about Beyond Blue, visit https://www.beyondblue.org. au, and to donate to Amy’s fundraiser, visit https://fundraise.beyondblue.org.au/ amywightonbaldforbeyond • If this media article causes you any distress, please phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Unreliable renewables more costly: Mirabella

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

THE intermittent nature of renewable energy is costing far more than the infrastructure that generates the power, according to former Liberal Senator and ex-state party president Greg Mi-

Mr Mirabella, who is both a quali ed accountant and engineer, drilled down on the costs of renewable energy, and said full system costs need to include peaking power, new transmission, storage, as well as environmental factors and expense to amenity, the community, and tourism, as well as the impacts on soil for horticulture and agriculture.

It comes a er federal Liberal leader Peter Dutton announced the seven sites for proposed Nuclear Power Stations to become operational from 2035 under a Coalition government.

Mr Mirabella’s comments contrast with a CSIRO 2023-24 GenCost report that determined nuclear power was more expensive than renewables and would take at least 15 years of develop.

“Other costs connected to renewable energy facilities need to be factored in with the argument, and a er they are, renewable energy is more expensive than nuclear,” he said.

“There is a lot of hype about

the cost of nuclear and that’s part of the political debate, and while nuclear energy is more expensive than most other things, it’s not more expensive than the way we’re going.

“Global statistics show that wind powers 40 per cent of the time and solar or PV produces only 30-40 per cent of the time.

“If it’s only producing a third of the time then you have to build three times as much to provide for the demand.”

Mr Mirabella said there are peaks and troughs with output and the way they deal with that is called rming.

“This is the only way the system works and there are people shiing energy from other sources when wind and solar feed into the system is low,” he said.

“This is a daily, hourly battle of rming or load management and to make it feasible you need stand-by gas plants, big batteries and transmission lines to balance the power.

“When you start to cost all that, the hourly cost of solar is anywhere from 3-5 times more expensive than coal.

“The proof is in your power bills.”

Mr Mirabella said from a political perspective, “Labor party state premiers’ objections about li ing the ban on uranium mining are just toeing the party line,” he said.

“For politicians, climate change is a political construct, and unfor-

tunately everything that’s done in this space is political.

“From an engineering perspective, spinning baseload is essential, and nuclear is the only current technology that can supply it if we are to eliminate combustion. There are 32 countries around the world that use it, and most of them have cheaper electricity than Australia, and most of them are looking at building more.”

He rea rmed that the Coalition is suggesting a mix of nuclear and renewable energy to power the nation - it’s not one or the other.

“We need nuclear baseload to replace coal baseload”, he said.

Mr Mirabella was addressing a meeting of local Victorian

Wednesday night.

He pointed out that from an agriculture perspective, a critical piece is missing from the energy politics debate.

“Primary producers must be concerned about land degradation, and this includes restoring soils and using better fertilisers, and this should be part of the dialogue, given that we actually need more carbon back in the soil.

“Decarbonisation as a term doesn’t make sense to us. We need carbon solids, and the best way to get them is from biomass conversion. Waste-to-energy systems and biogas should be at the top of the agenda. Biomass is renewable – batteries aren’t.”

Nuclear power sites confirmed by Coalition

Haines questions nuclear plan’s ability to reduce consumer costs

By STEVE KELLY

SEVEN regional sites of former coal- red power stations have been proposed to host large-scale nuclear reactors across Australia under a plan the Liberal National Party says will achieve zero emissions by 2050 and lower energy costs.

Liberal leader Peter Dutton announced the proposed nuclear power station locations on Wednesday, including Tarong in Queensland, Callide in Queensland, Liddell in NSW, Mount Piper in NSW, Port Augusta in SA, Loy Yang in Victoria, and Muja in WA.

Mr Dutton said no country in the world relies solely on solar and wind as Labor is proposing.

He said by contrast, there are 32 countries operating zeroemissions nuclear plants and another 50 countries are looking to do so.

“Power bills have already increased by up to $1000 for many Australians, when they were promised a $275 cut and Labor’s climate target of 43 per cent emissions reduction by 2030 has become unachievable,” he said.

“Of the world’s 20 largest economies, Australia is the only one not using nuclear energy, or moving towards using it.”

The Coaltion’s plan is to initially develop two establishment projects using either small mod-

ular reactors or modern larger plants such as the AP1000 or APR1400.

They will start producing electricity by 2035 (with small modular reactors) or 2037 (if modern larger plants are found to be the best option).

The Australian Government will own these assets, but form partnerships with experienced nuclear companies to build and operate them.

“Labor’s approach requires imposing 58 million solar panels, 3500 new industrial wind turbines, and up to 28,000km of new transmission lines across the country,” Mr Dutton said.

“Energy experts have warned the cost of Labor’s rollout will be between $1.2 trillion and $1.5 trillion.”

INDI MP: MORE DETAIL NEEDED

However, Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines said the Coalition’s announcement of seven regional sites to host large-scale nuclear reactors is a big headline but light on detail.

She said it will do nothing to lower Australian household power bills.

“CSIRO, our eminent scientific organisation, is clear - renewables are the cheapest, cleanest and fastest form of energy production in Australia,” Dr Haines said.

“It is vital that any new energy infrastructure - nuclear or

renewable - provides touchable, tangible bene t to these communities.”

Dr Haines said if the Coalition is to pursue this plan, then it must be ready to show the communities who are targeted for a nuclear reactor how they will enjoy long-term bene ts.

“They must see more af-

fordable housing, investment in childcare, accessible local healthcare, and better roads,” she said.

“Long-term regional development is what rural communities need and deserve from this energy transition irrespective of how that energy is generated, stored and transmitted.”

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

HIDDEN COSTS: Greg Mirabella believes there are hidden costs associated with renewable energy facilities but they don’t get talked about.

Farmers Federation members on

GOING NUCLEAR: Peter Dutton explains a concept design of a nuclear power plant.

SOCIAL OUTING: Wangaratta Senior Citizens Club members Ida Zanin, June Hales and Ken Daly enjoyed lunch at the Wangaratta Club on Wednesday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Communities calling for

AED’s in their rural towns

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

RURAL communities are calling for an Automatic External De brillators (AED) in their towns following an AED being used in a life saving situation in Glenrowan last week.

Communities that are part of the Rural City of Wangaratta but are 20 or 30 minutes drive when they are waiting for an ambulance are calling for measures to help in a medical emergency.

Lynn Lewis from the Cheshunt Hall Committee said on a good day an ambulance takes 40 minutes to get to the town at the top end of the King Valley.

“On a not so good day it’s a lot longer, an AED at the hall is essential,” she said.

“We have a lot of remote places up past us...Rose River and Paradise Falls both have decent sized communities who would also use it.

“The community is elderly, we have a lot of people aged 80 plus and a few over 90.

“If the power goes out so do the phones and the Telstra battery only has a 12 hour life and the closest pharmacy is in Milawa.

“We desperately need an AED in Cheshunt in case if an emergency.”

According to data released by Ambulance Victoria (AV), more than ever publicly accessible automated external de brillators (AED) are being used to help Victorians in cardiac arrest.

The latest Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry (VACAR) Annual Report revealed paramedics responded to a record 7830 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in 2022/23,

up 6.4 per cent from the previous year.

Of those cases, 139 had a shock delivered from a public AED, the highest number on record and up from 107 cases the previous year.

John Bradford from Murmungee Hall Committee said they have recently submitted a grant application to the Rural City of Wangaratta for an AED and CPR training.

“There is currently an AED in the Murmungee CFA truck but that is not accessible to the

public all of the time,” he said.

“It’s only helpful if it’s there and you need a code to access it.

“We have a lot of elderly people in our community, the same as Cheshunt and we are 40km from Wangaratta, 20km from Beechworth and 20km from Myrtleford.

“You could say there is a desperate need for an accessible de b in our community.”

As reported in Monday’s Wangaratta Chronicle, the immediate response by fam-

Public Safety Push

ACCORDING to Ambulance Victoria’s Automated External Defibrillator registry, several rural communities within the Rural City of Wangaratta aren’t listed, meaning they either don’t have AED’s or haven’t listed them.

Rural communities with AED’s listed are: Oxley (Oxley Hall); Milawa (Brown Brothers Wine Group); Greta (Flanigan Contracting Greta South); Moyhu (Moyhu Bowls Club, Moyhu Fire Station); Whitfield (Whitfield garage, Gentle Annie Caravan Park); Everton (Everton Community Hall); Peechleba (Peechleba Bushland Reserve committee); Killawarra (private residence, 193 Frosts Road); Boorhaman (Boorhaman Recreation Reserve, Boorhaman Golf Club); Whorouly (Whorouly Hotel); and Bowman’s Forest (Jade Quality Kiwi).

ily and community members, and easy access to a public AED, was the di erence between life and death for 31 year old Michael Stirling, a er he su ered a heart attack at the Glenrowan Vintage Cafe on Thursday morning last week.

Public members were able to perform CPR and use an AED, located centrally on the external wall of the Glenrowan Bakery, to revive Michael prior to ambulance MICA and paramedics responding, and

getting him airli ed by helicopter to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Michael’s Mum Pam said her son, who remains in an induced coma in RMH’s Intensive Care Unit with his condition stable and improving, wouldn’t be here without the community response and availability of the AED.

Pam shared her family’s story to help raise awareness of how AED’s can save lives and the need for all rural communities to have them.

Grief stricken drink driver handed a 20-month ban

A WANGARATTA man has been banned from driving for 20 months a er being caught with a blood alcohol level of 0.216 while driving into his home last year.

Wangaratta Magistrate’s Court heard this week that police attended a Wangaratta residence at around 11pm on November 19, responding to reports of a family dispute.

The 34-year-old defendant was later seen pulling into the driveway of the residence where he was intercepted by police.

Preliminary breath tests indicated alcohol in the man’s system, and he would later give a reading of .216BAC at the Wangaratta Police Station at around 1am that night.

The defendant’s defence counsel said impending separation from his partner and child and the recent loss of a family member had sent his client into a downward spiral, leading him to alcohol.

Prior to apprehending the defendant and investigating the dispute, police located a sawn-o shotgun improperly stored in the bedroom of the residence.

Police went on to locate a

rearm safe which contained ve weapons including a handgun, ri es, an air ri e and a shotgun, which the defendant was not licensed to own.

Four of the ve rearms were registered to a recently deceased family member of the defendant.

The court heard the defendant didn’t think to get rid of the rearms due to the ongoing grief he was feeling.

Magistrate Ian Watkins acknowledged the man was clearly going through a stressful period in his life, but turning to alcohol was never going to lead to a good outcome.

“These are clear implications of someone who wasn’t coping well with a lot of stress at the time,” he said.

“You’re lucky police intercepted you, you could have been a further danger to yourself and other road users.”

Magistrate Watkins suspended the man’s driver’s licence for the minimum period of 20 months, noting outstanding character references and good work ethic.

He also ordered a seizure of the sawn-o shotgun.

THE Milawa Oxley Rotary Club has awarded returning exchange students, Ruby Bastin and Abbey McLaughlin, two-year honorary Rotary memberships.

Ruby spent her exchange year in Switzerland, while Abbey immersed herself in the culture of France.

Club president, Amanda Campbell said the ‘Magic of Rotary’ is already working in Milawa Oxley as the club plans for the coming year.

“Our local ‘Magic’ is embodied in our returning and outbound Rotary Youth Exchange students,” she said.

“As incoming president, I am proud to award a two-year honorary membership to Abbey and

Ruby in recognition of their contribution to the family of Rotary, both here and in their host countries.

“These exceptional young women have not only represented the club but have also been outstanding ambassadors for Australia during their time abroad.”

Both Ruby and Abbey are excited to take on new roles within the club and are eager to plan and manage projects of their choosing, continuing the tradition of “Service Above Self” that is at the heart of Rotary.

Ruby said she is grateful for the opportunity and excited to see what she can contribute to help Rotary,.

“Since coming back from ex-

change, I feel so much more aware about world issues, and I am keen to explore how I can help,” she said. Abbey said she is really grateful for all the Rotary club’s support.

“Being given the honorary membership means a lot to me so I can continue working with this great club in making a difference in the community,” she said.

Ms Campbell said the Milawa Oxley Rotary Club is all about community and connection and is always welcoming new members. For more information visit wwwrotaryclubofmilawaoxley.org or email at milawaoxleyrotaryclub@ gmail.com or call 0408 597 451.

EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES: Rotary exchange students (from le ) Bridget Pizzini, Abbey McLaughlin, Ruby Bastin, Sophia Gomes and Sophia Rey from both the Appin Park and Milawa Oxley Rotary clubs. Ruby and Abbey have received honaorary Rotary membership.

Look after yourself during winter

WINTER has officially hit and health services in the rural city are seeing a spike in the seasonal flu and respiratory illnesses common with the cold.

The season’s coldest frosts so far have been experienced in Wangaratta this week, with morning temperatures regularly below zero, including a -4.3 degree minimum experienced on Wednesday.

While the sustained sunshine has been nice for some, the cold days and extremely limited rainfall over the past six weeks has brought bad bearings for those susceptible to the dreaded flu.

As pharmacy owner Bruce Robertson remarked in today’s story, the traditionally bad flu seasons occur when there are multiple days of frost and no rain.

Illnesses like including a combination of influenza, RSV and other disease have been spreading, and it seems people have been somewhat hesitant to protect themselves.

COVID has also silently been spreading in the community, concerningly among our elderly.

South Wangaratta Medical Centre’s Kim Ching highlighted an alarming trend experienced nationally and at the clinic, with less people of all ages getting their flu shots this year.

The trend is a concerning one considering the menacing start to the flu season, and all health clinics are urging people to get vaccinated before it’s too late.

Steps you can take to protect yourself and others include washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and wearing a mask when you can’t social distance.

Stay inside when you can, keep warm and always call triple zero or attend to the emergency department for life threatening illness or emergencies.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week commented on state government planning for 5700 new homes to be built in the Rural City of Wangaratta by 2051.

• Georgina Rea: And Wangaratta just gets bigger and bigger. Not the nice quiet place it used to be. Houses upon houses instead of trees now and too busy and hectic. In saying this I hope those who are homeless find a roof for themselves soon.

• Dave George: Georgina Rea exactly.

• Clinton Kingston: Traffic is congested now, hate to see it then.

• Ken Willmott: Tell them their dreaming.

• Ross Johnston: That’s an average of about 220 per year, but according to Council 2023 report the average annual building permits issued for new dwellings for the last 4 years was 177 building permits. So a 24% increase every

Confusing renewable push in the country

WE hear all these stories about the solar and wind farms along with all the additional power transmission lines that are required to bring the power for the predominantly city people to use.

But I have yet to see a government report which shows where all these farms are to be located.

There must be one or are the government doing their planning on the back of a cigarette packet which is a recipe for disaster.

If there is one release it to the public as presently, we see large tracks of prime agricultural land being used for solar and wind farms.

This is insane as this will affect the supply of agricultural products in the future if this trend continues.

I am surprised that the Greens political party seems to be quiet on the destruction of native habitat and forests for installation of the power transmission lines.

NOTE:

year for the next 25 years. We’ll see.

• Anne Taylor: What about all of the services that go along with this many more people?

• Timothy Simpson: Whacko! I can see Tone Road getting two more petrol stations to cater for the additional people.

• Shez Mitchell: A shopping mall for the West end.

• Lorraine Monshing Oam: Bet they won’t be built to last as long as the old

Housing commission houses did ! They will be a better design, but those old house were built to last.

• Cardwell Belinda: The infrastructure needs to keep up with all this building.

• Paulene Lawford: With so many building companies going bust ,with people left with unfinished homes etc that’s all over the news ..how are these homes going to be built + who can afford to buy a house let alone rent them.

Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

14,891

Can understand the stance by the CFA in Victoria as they will not have the appliances and training to fight bushfires in solar and wind farms.

What further amuses me is Graincorp made a statement about growing more canola as a feed stock for alternate fuel.

So, they must know how to grow and harvest canola in solar and wind farms.

John Walker, North Wangaratta

Solution to ease

Wangaratta traffic woes

I READ with interest ( Wangaratta Chronicle , June 14) that there will be a three to six month delay on the Green Street bridge.

To me, a solution is to re-open the Tempelton Street rail crossing as a replica of the Sisley Avenue rail crossing. No overpass or tunnel.

Brian Fox, Wangaratta

Roof top solar is effective power

AT the cost of adding further confusion to the solar vs nuclear debate, contemplate the following numbers.

1. We have to di erentiate between roo op solar and mega solar farms. I am only referring to roof top solar.

2. As indicated in my letter to the

FREEZING AND FROSTY: You had to look twice Wednesday morning to make sure it was frost, not snow, blanketing Wareena Park (pictured) and everywhere else in Wangaratta. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, it was our coldest morning for the year to date, with the temperature dropping to minus 4.3 degrees. It was our fourth consecutive morning of sub-zero temperatures. PHOTO: Je Zeuschner

Wangaratta Chronicle (29/5/2023), Victoria had 510,000 roof top solar installations at the time (over 3GW installed capacity, more than Morwell and Loy Yang put together). It has probably increased since.

3. Roo op solar is not impacting the distribution infrastructure.

The electrons don’t care if they are coming or going!

If the around average 10kW household supply installation was safe before the solar installation it should be safe a er the solar installation.

There is no need for new distributor infrastructure, which our taxes and levies paid for in the rst place when the SECV constructed them.

4. An extract from our latest monthly bill (15/5/24) for a pretty ordinary household is; Daily charge - $39.77. O peak-3.75kWh@$0.287/kWh. Peak-9.9kWh@$0.493/kWh. Solar498kWh@$0.054/kWh.

It is worth noting that both the peak and o -peak charges against us were generated by the retailer supplied “smart meter”.

In fact our battery never dropped below 50 per cent charge and was perfectly able to supply all our needs, day and night throughout the year.

Despite the obscene feed-in tari and other stunts, our retailer owes us an accumulated $481.24.

5. As the extract from our latest bill shows the daily charge is our major cost for supplying 498kWh of cheap electricity into the grid which probably never goes past our immediate neighborhood.

6. As for mega solar (around 100sqkm of panels just around Glenrowan), I would venture to suggest that they get more than $054/kWh.

If our politicians would look a er the mums and dads, make sure roof top solar was properly compensated instead of pandering to big business, investment in roof top solar would take o and we would have more than enough roof top electricity generation for all purposes.

Gabriel Stecher, Devenish

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

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• Gav Mac: When adults become children

• Megan Janell: Jess! Just what you were saying! Enough to make you want to come to work on your day off???

• Alicia Maynard: Harry Finney Katie Niklaus Paul Niklaus imagine us with all the dachshunds

• Mon Szeligiewicz: Paul Szeligiewicz perfect timing !!!

• William Magnus: For sure but out in the paddock

• Jackie Perkins: Giuseppina Davidson omg dolly would love a day on the ward. Sitting on laps and getting cuddles.. I wish

• Sara Corker: Kristie Meggs imagine the madness if everyone bought their dog! Mine would eat poor lil Frankie!

• Samantha JL: Kristie Meggs

I 100% support this idea!! Chubs accepts the invitation and will wear his suit on Friday when he attends the office

• Jai Canny: Tim Mortimer you can bring your dog To work if you leave your phone at home

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Primary School’s Year 5/6 students in Council

The students are learning about the three levels of government and the election process in Australia. Next term, they will visit State Parliament.

Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.

• Natasha Seiter: Melanie Post if I bring Kitty to work can I leave her in your office?

• Stacey Senkic: Tamzyn Dowell omg I so should be do it on Thursday!!

• Karli Vincent: Danielle Flanigan Lauren Mulquiney you’ll be all over this

• Lauren Mulquiney: Karli Vincent how were your stress levels when Flo peed on the carpet next to your feet?? I feel like there may have been a little cortisol spike there… Facebook users this week

also commented on grant for artwork and wayfinding signage near the riverside.

• Timothy Simpson: There is real problem in the city with our homeless. This money would be better spent on providing a toilet block/shower for the homeless. Reeves and Co need to take a walk behind the showgrounds and now Frank Garth Reserve to see for themselves.

• Jamial Arnol: Meanwhile pieces of the road will make a fantastic attraction floating down the ovens river.

X users this week tweeted about upcoming football games on the weekend, Wangaratta’s community radio station and former Wangaratta Rover and AFL player being injured.

Ovens & Murray FNL @omfnl

Round 10 in the SS&A Ovens & Murray continues with a BLOCKBUSTER weekend across Lavington, Wodonga, and the Wangaratta Derby on Sunday! Make sure to get around the grounds this weekend to support your favourite team in the different grades!

Dona McQueen @DonaMcqueen

Wangaratta community radio Oak FM has a fantastic sports show on a Friday evening where they talk all sports. It’s very informative & fun. Next Friday we start a segment called Ask the trainer where I will answer questions. Hoping to get some guests like Ben Brisbourne Wangaratta RoversFNC @wangrovers

Sad news for Brayden George & family. Brayden George has torn his ACL, scans have confirmed today. Devastating news for the Roos

If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.

Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

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SHPA @the_shpa

Earlier this year, SHPA reps Jerry Yik

+ @TrevillianSusan FANZCAP met w/ Dr @ HelenHainesIndi MP discussing pharmacy in rural health, which led to Dr Haines’ visit to Northeast Health Wangaratta to hear more about PPMC! https://buff.ly/4bXWvD8

FANZCAP

Last week we had the pleasure of hosting Wangaratta

Chambers.

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Kelly Bradley’s journey to the McEvoy Tavern

with KELLY BRADLEY

THE McEvoy Tavern stands in the heart of Victoria’s historically rich Eldorado, it is a place of community spirit and heartfelt hospitality.

Kelly Bradley has always envisioned owning her own pub, and she turned this dream into reality four and a half years ago when she took over the small, unassuming McEvoy Tavern in this tranquil and historic township.

Named after the last mine operated in the area, the tavern is not only the smallest pub in Victoria but also a symbol of the region’s enduring heritage, embodying the authentic spirit of Australian history that Eldorado preserves so well.

“When I was a little girl, I always said I’d own my own pub one day,” Kelly reminisces, her voice filled with the passion that has driven her to this goal.

Her journey to revitalize the tavern was not just about business; it was about creating a community hub that resonated with the charm and character of Eldorado.

Under Kelly’s stewardship, the McEvoy Tavern underwent significant renovations to offer the old-fashioned country service that she had always dreamed of providing.

The McEvoy Tavern

“From the start, my goal was to serve great food with warm, friendly, family service,” Kelly explains.

As a result, the McEvoy Tavern is now celebrated not only as the smallest pub in Victoria but also where every visitor feels like part of the community.

“If you’re given an opportunity and you don’t know what you’re doing, say yes and learn along the way.” Kelly Bradley

The challenges of bushfires and COVID-19 tested the tavern’s resilience, but Kelly’s commitment to her community endured.

She adapted quickly, offering takeaway meals to support the locals when restrictions were tight.

“The customers and the locals kept me motivated,” Kelly states, reflecting on how the community’s support gave her strength during uncertain times.

Kelly’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop at the tavern.

She also manages the local post office and general store, integral parts of the Eldorado community fabric.

These establishments came as part of the package when she pursued her dream, and she has embraced them with her characteristic zeal.

“The Tavern was my dream, and the post office and the store, I found out, came with it,” Kelly shares with a laugh.

Looking ahead, Kelly has big plans for these additional ventures.

She aims to infuse the general

store with more local history and sell local produce to educate and connect with the community.

“I’d love to bring some of that old history back into the general store,” Kelly muses, envisioning a space where visitors can learn about Eldorado’s rich past while enjoying the best of local offerings.

Kelly’s advice for others dreaming big is straightforward yet powerful: “If you’re given an opportunity and you don’t know what you’re doing, say yes and learn along the way.”

This philosophy has guided her through the ups and downs

of running multiple businesses, always with an eye towards nurturing the community she loves.

The McEvoy Tavern is a testament to Kelly’s dream and determination, a place where everyone can feel at home, and every visit offers a taste of local charm and unwavering hospitality.

Kelly remains a beloved figure, dedicated to ensuring that her tavern, post office, and general store remain pillars of the community for years to come.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO THE McEVOY TAVERN: Kelly Bradley not only runs the local pub but also the post office and general store at Eldorado.

Faces of Small Business

Bumper auction adds to race day’s appeal

THE presence of three-time Melbourne Cup champion jockey Damien Oliver, together with fantastic on-track racing and entertainment aren’t the only draw cards for the inaugural Community Foundation Race Day, to be held at Wangaratta Turf Club on Saturday, July 6.

A fantastic range of auction items has also been announced by the Into Our Hands Community Foundation to bolster e orts to support local charities that bene t the North East communities.

Foundation executive o cer Peter McCabe said everything from luxury accommodation packages through to hardware packs and vouchers have been generously donated by the North East business community, with proceeds going directly to the foundation and its subfunds – Give Wangaratta and Grow Myrtleford+, and the Garry Nash & Co Community Fund.

“Since 2012, the Into Our Hands Community Foundation has invested more than $1.5 million in the community, supporting 246 organisations and projects across the North East region,” he said.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity to support local initiatives while enjoying a day of fun and entertainment.”

The Grand Oaks tickets for

A SELECTION OF AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDES:

 three nights’ accommodation for six people in Lorne

 multiple power tool packs and hardware gift voucher

 A1 Tyre Power Wangaratta set of Toyo Tyres

 Llfestyle items and adventure experiences

 multiple regional wine packs

 two paintings from regional artists

 Dinner Plain accommodation at ‘Caribou’

 lunch in the Prosecco Lounge at Brown Brothers for six people

 two nights’ accommodation in a Garden Sunrise Room at Lancemore Milawa

 sports items and memorabilia

 Ace Radio advertising package

the event are $150 per person and include: racecourse admission, gourmet cocktail food throughout the day, a four-hour beverage package, entertainment from guest

Free Parkinson’s community seminar for North East residents

NORTH East residents interested in learning more about Parkinson’s disease and connecting with others living with the condition can attend a free community seminar being held in Benalla next week.

Fight Parkinson’s is bringing Parkinson’s experts to the region to help people gain a deeper understanding of Parkinson’s, its treatments, and the importance of social connections in managing the condition for a full and active life.

Attendees will gain insights into the latest updates on Parkinson’s research and treatments from neurologist and movement disorder specialist, Dr Daniel Barber.

They will also have the opportunity to engage with members of the Fight Parkinson’s health team, who will address frequently asked questions about Parkinson’s. Additionally, attendees will hear the personal story of a local community member living with Parkinson’s.

This free event will be held at Benalla Bowls Club, 25 Arundel Street, Benalla from 11.30am to 2pm on Tuesday, June 25.

People are advised to arrive at 11am for checkin and light refreshments, with the seminar to begin at 11.30am.

NOT TO MISSED:

In addition to the racing and appearance of champion jockey Damien Oliver, there will also be a major silent auction to help raise funds for the Into Our Hands Foundation.

speaker Damien Oliver, live music from local artist Marc Paola, live and silent auctions, private TAB facilities, and donation to Into Our Hands Community Foundation.

For bookings or more information, go to https://country. racing.com/wangaratta/calendar/2024-07-06/saturday-races or contact the Wangaratta Turf Club at (03) 5722 1242.

While there is no fee to attend, registrations are required.

You can register by calling Fight Parkinson’s on 03 8809 0400 or registering online at fightparkinsons.org.au/events.

Parkinson’s is a chronic neurological condition with a range of complex symptoms, the most common of which include stiffened muscles, slowed movement, and changes in posture.

Medication and support from healthcare professionals can help manage the symptoms, but there is no way to slow progression or cure Parkinson’s. Neurological disorders are now the leading cause of disabilities worldwide, and Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological syndrome.

The cause remains unknown.

It is estimated that 57,000 Victorians and 219,000 Australians are living with Parkinson’s.

Creating pet friendly workplaces

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

TODAY is Take Your Dog to Work Day and many local businesses are getting behind the initiative.

Louisa Hayes, the head of wellbeing and the school social worker at Wangaratta High School, brings her dog Frankie to the school every day.

Frankie is a trained therapy dog and Ms Hayes said Frankie is great at o ering support to students who need it.

“She recognises when a kid is really distressed and will go and sit with them,” she said.

“Dogs help kids and adults to regulate themselves and are also very good to connect with kids because they can start talking about the dog.”

Consumer research by animal welfare charity Companion Animal Network Australia (CAN) shows that 85 per cent of Australian dog owners would be more likely to come into work if they could take their pets, while nearly twice as many workers in pet friendly environments are ‘very satis ed’ with their work environment in comparison to workplaces where pets aren’t allowed.

Head vet Kate Norman from Dr Paws Veterinary Clinic said pets can be helpful in the workplace.

“For people who are stressed or anxious, having a pet there to have a bit of a pat or bit of a cuddle can de nitely help,” she said.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT: Louisa Hayes brings trained therapy dog, Frankie to Wangaratta High School everyday.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“Studies show people are more productive at work when they have their pets there as well which is a bonus.”

Dr Paws practice manager, Avril Meehan, said this can o en be because of the unconditional love pets can o er and welcomes the Take Your Dog Day initiative.

“Take Your Dog to Work Day highlights the importance of animals and how they can have a positive impact on mental health,” she said.

“It’s a really positive movement and it will be good to see how it goes because it is something that could be implemented on a more regular basis.”

The day was started by CAN and for tips on how you can make your workplace more pet friendly visit https://australiacan.org.au/ can-your-o ce-be-pet-friendly/.

For people who are stressed or anxious, having a pet there to have a bit of a pat or bit of a cuddle can definitely help.

HEAD VET KATE NORMAN FROM DR PAWS VETERINARY CLINIC

Come along to a day of outdoor activities and local trade displays

Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls offering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear, and bicycles to fishing, hunting equipment, and more! Whether you’re interested in mowing your lawn or riding a bike, there’s something for everyone. •

WORKPLACE COMPANIONS: Makaila Gilbee, Avril Meehan, Rachel Hunte and Kate Norman from Dr Paws Veterinary Clinic welcome the Take Your Dog to Work Day initiative with dogs Harlie, Tuppy, Diesel and Maggie.

Learn about research on future landscapes

WARBY Range Landcare Group is hosting a dinner meeting with lead researcher, Associate Professor Jim Radford, from La Trobe’s Research Centre for Future Landscapes, at the Town and Country Hotel in Wangaratta on Thursday, June 27 at 6.30pm for 7pm.

Farm-scale Natural Capital Accounting, is the culmination of four years’ hard work, spanning 50 farms across New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.

Assoc Prof Radford will explain how farmers can use the results of this project to improve their management of natural capital and measure their farm performance, while maintaining natural resources and biodiversity. For more RSVP information contact Pat Larkin on 03 5721 8325 or mugsville@westnet. com.au.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

The Long Road this weekend

FOLLOWING its successful opening last week, don’t miss the opportunity to see The Long Road at the Stage Door Theatre in Evans Street this weekend.

It tells the story of what happens after 18-year-old Danny is fatally stabbed in a random attack, and how his family struggles to find meaning and forgiveness after their unimaginable loss.

A topical and powerful play, see it tonight and Saturday at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 2pm, with tickets at https://www. trybooking.com/CRRUA.

Black Box Series in Gallery 2

AN overzealous idiot attempts to perform all of Greek Mythology in order to save his Hellenic homeland from economic ruin, in Garry Starr Greece Lightning, being performed in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery tonight at 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

The multi award-winning comedy show is part of the Black Box Series of intimate performances running over 10 consecutive days in the space.

On Saturday night at 7pm, Perolas Quartet will present an avant-garde blend of experimental jazz, electroacoustic harp, evocative lyrics and unconventional rhythms, during their show in the space.

Secure tickets now by visiting wpacc.com.au.

ALL THE COLOURS OF RAINBOW RIDGE IN NEW EXHIBITION

By ANITA MCPHERSON

AN exhibition of vibrant artworks which are inspired by rural life, the colours of nature and captivating scenery has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

Rainbow Ridge is the rst exhibition of paintings by emerging artist Margaret Bennett, who nds plenty of motivation close to home in Everton Upper where she lives on a sheep farm with husband, Russell.

Margaret says she is fortunate to live in such a beautiful district, where walks across the hills provide an endless variety of weather, colour and atmosphere.

“The landscape at Rainbow Ridge changes with the seasons, whether it’s a crisp winter, vivid spring or a grinding drought,” she said.

“We are on a hill, so we have the advantage of looking out towards the Warby Range and Mount Bu alo.

“It also involves daily life, of which farm dogs are a big part.

“I walk them daily if possible, and we all love walking on the hill - the morning and evening light is very special.”

Margaret says she uses oils and acrylic paint, charcoal, conte crayon and oil pastel on board and canvas, particularly enjoying the malleability and texture of oils.

She only recently began working with acrylic and Conte crayons, to create di erent textures.

There are around 20 paintings on display and while most are realistic in approach, her abstract works re ect an inner landscape, o en featuring compelling colour.

While the exhibition is a retrospective, what is noticeable is an ongoing theme of familiar landscape.

See Rainbow Ridge at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway o Murphy Street today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm with the opportunity to meet the artists on Saturday from 12pm, and all welcome.

Creatives of Wangaratta market

THE next Creatives of Wangaratta and Surrounds (CoWS) market will be held at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street on Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm.

There will be 21 artists, makers and small business owners from the North East Victorian region taking part showcasing polymer clay, resin and acrylic earrings, handmade ceramics, bookish accessories and secondhand books, embroidery, recycled/upcycled products, watercolour art, giftware and more.

The market is held on the fourth Saturday of the month, with the June event also including a Beyond Blue fundraiser, with Amy Wigton to shave her head at the market and donate her hair to make children’s wigs.

She will be cutting a braid of hair every 15 minutes with the final shave at around 11.30am.

There will also be a sticker rally and kids stalls with plenty to entertain visitors of all ages.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

Petite Miniature Textiles 2024

SEE one of Wangaratta Art Gallery’s most popular exhibitions, Petite Miniature Textiles 2024, showcasing innovative textile practice from across Australia in small scale, at the gallery this weekend.

This year works included in Petite have been selected by guest curator, artist and previous Petite exhibitor, Susie Losch, and Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt, around the theme “of the times”.

It features 30 works by 22 artists from across the country, exploring a multitude of contemporary concerns from artificial intelligence to affordable housing, and it comes to an end on Sunday.

Wangaratta community market

THE Wangaratta community market runs every 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 also on site.

Stalls are available for $20 each (an autumn winter special, no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

COMMUNITY CHOIR TO SHARE SONGS OF PASSION AND HOPE

By ANITA MCPHERSON

WANGARATTA based community choir Ostinato will share songs of protest, passion and hope during two concerts being performed at the historic Oxley Shire Hall this Saturday and Sunday a ernoon.

The program has been put together by musical director Ruth HillNoble and includes a diverse mix of upli ing classical works, soaring traditional pieces and thoughtful compositions by the likes of John Lennon and Bob Dylan, which have stood the test of time.

Ms HillNoble said the choir was thoroughly enjoying rehearsing and performing the new program, which was put together with the assistance and input of choir member, Joanne Watkins.

She said members of the choir

had also contributed to the collection, adding pieces including El Condor Pasa, John Denver’s Annie’s Song and John Lennon’s Imagine.

“Songs of protest, passion and hope is a very broad title, with a song like ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair’ an example of one that really encompasses all three,” she said.

“The program has to be a challenge for everyone (in the choir) without being too big a struggle.

“We want people to be interested in what they are singing and to develop as singers as well.”

Ms HillNoble said the Pentatonix arrangement of Imagine is one that was a real challenge for the choir, as it wasn’t what everyone was expecting.

She said the Ukrainian Prayer was challenging in a di erent way because of how emotional it is, with everyone becoming quite en-

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gaged and involved in the song.

The Eric Bogle song, And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda, was another which inspired heartfelt emotion from choir members, involving a soloist for the rst time.

There will also be a guitarist accompanying the choir for a couple of songs, which is also a rst.

Ms HillNoble said the Oxley Hall was a fabulous place to sing with magni cent acoustics which enhanced the beauty of the combined voices.

“And it is so much more intimate than other halls, so the audience is part of us rather than separatewhich is really lovely,” she said.

Ostinato will perform at the historic Oxley Shire Hall Saturday and Sunday at 2pm with and tickets $20 for adults (under 16 gold coin at the door) available from trybooking. com/CRQHJ.

GANEAA exhibition in Bainz Gallery

MEMBERS of the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) are presenting an exhibition called From Grass Trees to Wetlands in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library this month.

The exhibition showcases a wide range of artwork by 14 artists taking inspiration from our unique local environment, including the grass trees in the Warby Ranges and the wetlands in Winton.

Featuring examples of printmaking, textiles, photography, pastel, mixed media and acrylic on canvas, it will be on display until June 28.

Echoes of Pink Floyd in Wangaratta

AUSTRALIA’s own Echoes of Pink Floyd brings a painstakingly crafted homage to the English powerhouse rockers in the amazing concert experience, Signs of Life, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tonight.

Signs of Life will celebrate the heady years of the late eighties, with the best songs from the Delicate Sound of Thunder tour thoughtfully reproduced for Pink Floyd fans of all ages.

See it tonight at 8pm with tickets available now at wpacc. com.au.

ONE VOICE: Community choir Ostinato (pictured) will add their voices to songs of protest, passion and hope when they perform at the Oxley Shire Hall on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm.

Phonics move right, but should have been earlier

WANGARATTA-

based state MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy (pictured), says the Nationals have been vindicated, with the State Government finally overcoming its “phonic phobia” to make educational changes that should have come in year ago.

Minister for Education, Ben Carroll, announced an updated Victorian Teaching

and Learning Model last week, which will be implemented in all government schools across the state from 2025 with explicit teaching at its core.

All students from Prep to Grade 2 will be taught using a systematic synthetic phonics approach as part of their reading programs, with a minimum of 25 minutes daily explicit teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness.

This will be a core component of a comprehensive reading program that also

includes explicit teaching of oral language, vocabulary, reading fluency and comprehension.

Systematic synthetic phonics is a structured approach that explicitly teaches the relationship between sounds and letters to read words.

Mr McCurdy said the Nationals, in the 2018 and 2022 state elections, pledged a year one phonics check and evidence-based literacy techniques for all government schools.

“The Allan Labor Government delayed implementation, resulting in unfortunate student outcomes,” he said

“Phonics and structured literacy are crucial for student success and should be given top priority,” Mr McCurdy said.

“NAPLAN results highlight the fact that more than a quarter of Victorian students are failing to meet literacy standards, highlighting Labor’s mismanagement of education over the past decade.”

GIVEAWAY: The a copy of ‘A Kids Book About ADHD’ to give away to one lucky reader.

New kids’ book helps celebrate differences

By SIMONE KERWIN

A NEW release children’s book presents Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a “superpower”.

‘A Kids Book About ADHD’, was written by Australian mum Elly Both, who was diagnosed with ADHD as a 44-year-old.

It aims to help kids understand and embrace the unique qualities of living with the condition, which impacts one in 20 Australian children, and more than 1.2 million Australians overall.

Designed for co-reading with children aged five to 10 years, the book is bound to spark thought-provoking questions such as ‘What does ADHD mean to you?’, ‘Do you ever feel like you have your head in the clouds or are bouncing off the walls?’ and ‘What is your ADHD superpower?’.

Elly believes the widespread condition harbours hidden strengths.

“I’ve heard a lot of people share that receiving their diagnosis was not as positive (as I saw it) - they grapple with this thing that is ‘wrong’ with them,” she said.

“Stories like this, which are so different to my experience, inspired me to write the book.

“I wanted to shine a light on the many positives that I see in ADHD.

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“Having ADHD doesn’t just mean having challenges - it also means having a unique way of seeing the world and existing in it.”

Elly said skills such as creativity and hyperfocus were among the benefits of ADHD.

“I wrote this book to help kids with ADHD see their condition not as a hindrance, but as a superpower,” she said.

‘A Kids Book About ADHD’ is part of a broader series from ‘A Kids Co’ which is designed to be read together by children and adults, promoting a shared understanding and acceptance of big topics.

• The Wangaratta Chronicle has a copy of the book to give away.

If you would like to be in the running to win, simply email skerwin@nemedia.com.au and tell us why you would love to own or share it.

To find out more about Elly’s book, visit ellyboth.com

Nominations are sought for Victoria’s top seniors

NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2024 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards (VSOYA), an annual celebration of the many senior Victorians who share their skills, experience, time and energy with our community.

There are six awards categories: Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year, Promotion of Multiculturalism Award, Healthy and Active Living Award, Veteran Community Award, Ageing Well Award and COTA (Council on the Ageing) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards. Nominees must be aged 60 years or over, and 50 years or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians and can be made through the brand-new platform at www.seniorsonline. vic.gov.au/awards.

Nominations for the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards close on August 11.

From the Delta to Wangaratta

A FORMER Wangaratta resident who has been involved in the renaissance of a Mississippi town with a strong blues history believes the rejuvenated Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues has legs.

John Henshall, a Melbourne-based urban economist and planner and keen blues fan, grew up in Wangaratta, where his father ran a pharmacy in Murphy Street for 35 years.

Mr Henshall’s experience includes involvement in the revival of United States town Clarksdale, which is located at the crossroads of Highways 61 and 49 and known as the birthplace of the Delta Blues.

He penned a text book, ‘Downtown Revitalisation and Delta Blues in Clarksdale, Mississippi: Lessons for Small Cities and Towns’, outlining his link to the town, which he has visited more than 20 times

Urban economist/planner believes local jazz and blues festival has big future

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

since a somewhat accidental discovery.

“I was driving from New Orleans to Memphis in my rental car, having attended an American Planning Association conference on urban planning and development,” he said.

“As I proceeded up Highway 61 and across to Highway 49 through the Delta, I checked my Lonely Planet guidebook for possible places to stay for the night, as I was totally new to this region.

“My quick reference to the guidebook advised that if you like the blues, you must visit Clarksdale, the fabled ‘cross-

roads’ in the mythology of blues music.

“As the story goes, Robert Johnson went down to the crossroads of Highways 49 and 61 and sold his soul to the Devil in return for the gi of playing blues guitar.

“With no second thoughts, I drove into Clarksdale, and that was the beginning of my relationship with this Mississippi Delta town.”

Mr Henshall said he knew little of Clarksdale before he arrived there for the rst time to nd a town with many vacant, unused or derelict buildings, a downtown deserted of shoppers and cars, and just one restaurant operating.

He was introduced to building contractor/developer and Clarksdale statesman

began a long association with the town which included lending his experience in economics and urban planning to help the town create an action plan for its future.

That plan has helped Clarksdale revive its connection to the blues through a new-look downtown and live music.

“The town started rebuilding, people started setting up businesses; if I was younger, I would have gone there and set up a business myself,” he said.

Now, Mr Henshall says he can see potential for a form of ‘sister city’ relationship between Wangaratta and Clarksdale, and for the local event to nd its feet again.

“I’d love to see musicians from here going to the Delta,

“Wangaratta has enough history in running the festival that it is well recognised, and it only takes a small import of musicians and visitors from other places to enjoy their time here and tell other people, who then come not just to listen to music, but to get to know the district and the wider region.

“They might come for the festival, but next time they’ll come back and explore another aspect.”

Mr Henshall said interested individuals, strong community and business involvement, and council support would be needed to “foster the reignition of the Wangaratta festival”.

• The next opportunity for locals to express their interest in being involved with the and Blues will be a meeting at the Wangaratta Club on Tuesday, June 25 from 6pm.

Cast and crew lauded for The Long Road

By ANITA MCPHERSON

THE cast and crew of Wangaratta Players production The Long Road are still revelling in the success of their opening weekend and looking forward to presenting the nal performances this week.

The show was a sellout last Saturday night and as rave reviews continue to roll in, there is expected to be strong demand for seats this weekend.

Director Brad Buckingham said opening night went well, which was to be expected, given the strength of the performances he’d witnessed during nal rehearsals.

He said it was a tribute to the cast given the intensity of the script and its challenging monologues, delivered within a sparse set which uses bold colour and texture to cleverly re ect both a family home and a bleak prison environment.

“I wanted to stage the play right towards the front so it is in the face of the audience, so our stage

designer Paul Walker came up with a plan which really delivered,” he said.

“There is a cleverness to the design, showing a little bit about where you are

without really seeing it.

“It’s doing the job nicely, pushing the cast towards the audience so they are very much involved in what’s happening.”

The story follows the aftermath of the death of 18-year-old Danny who is fatally stabbed in a random attack and how his family struggles to find

meaning and forgiveness.

His mother Mary’s determination to understand the atrocity brings her face to face with his killer and forces the

family to confront the bitter senselessness of their loss.

Brad said he’s enjoyed being in the audience and watching people react to the story and the characters, many appearing to relate to the sense of loss and the di erent ways people deal with grief.

He said it clearly struck a chord with some, largely due to the powerful performances.

Reviews have described it as “brilliant”, “superbly acted”, “thoughtfully directed”, “captivating” and “thought-provoking”, with some saying they were actually moved to tears.

“It’s beautiful to watch because the writing (by Shelagh Stephenson) is so ultra-realistic and the performing of it is so good - I’m so very pleased with what they’re doing,” said Brad.

The Long Road will be performed tonight and Saturday at 7.30pm, and on Sunday at 2pm, at the Stage Door theatre in Evans Street, with tickets at https://www.trybooking. com/CRRUA.

TEAM EFFORT: Cast and crew from Wangaratta Players The Long Road includes (back from le ) Aleeta Carmody, Shane Douthie, Paul Walker, Brad Buckingham, Jack Johnston and (front from le ) Makenzie Clark, Laura Gundrill, Colette Quin, Miranda Schroeder, Shelley Bovenkamp, Kerrie Evans, Jess Evans and Nola Puppa.

BACKING THE FESTIVAL: John Henshall believes there is much scope for the revival of the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.

Little Raven

By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS

THE Little Raven is one of two species of raven found in our region.

To the casual observer the Little Raven is difficult to discern from the other species found locally, the Australian Raven.

There are five species of native raven, also known as crows, in Australia.

Little Ravens are entirely black, including their bill, feet and legs.

They have white eyes, a short stubby bill, and neck.

Their hackles, or neck feathers, are long and noticeable when calling and they have heavily feathered legs.

The call of the Little Raven is a good method for identifying them in the field being a guttural “kar-karkar-kar” or “ark- ark-ark-ark”.

The bulk of the Little Raven’s diet consists of insects, more so than other raven species.

Other food they eat includes small birds, eggs, nestlings and occasionally seeds and fruit.

They also take carrion (such as road killed animals) and refuse.

The species is nomadic and only defends a small area around the nest while breeding.

For most of the year they travel, feed and roost in small flocks of up to 30 birds and sometimes in very large flocks of over 200 birds.

They are territorial birds,

advertising their boundaries with short cawing calls and wing shuffling above their backs.

The Little Raven is found mostly in or west of the Great Dividing Range from south of Sydney to Victoria and across to South Australia.

Their preferred habitat is highly variable and may include lightly timbered grassland, open habitats and pastures.

They tend to roost in nearby dry open woodlands.

Breeding season usually occurs during winterearly summer when food is plentiful and once commenced usually means that the birds will remain in that location for roughly three months.

Both the male and female partners build a bulky nest of sticks in trees.

The female incubates four to five large white eggs with light brown spots for about 20 days.

Both partners feed the young for the following weeks.

A good way to identify the Little Raven is by its behaviour when, unlike other ravens, it gathers in tight flocks of many birds and they perform synchronised acrobatics to and from roosting sites.

LOOK FAMILIAR: A Little Raven on the wing. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

Wangaratta volunteers’ morning tea

By KURT HICKLING

VOLUNTEERS were front and centre during a morning tea, hosted last week by the Rural City of Wangaratta, to celebrate the remarkable contribution these amazing people make to the community.

Around 100 community members, including Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines, joined Mayor Dean Rees for the event in the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

Mayor Rees told those present that they were the “heart and soul of our community”, who provided indispensable support to countless organisations who rely on their volunteer base to complete numerous vital tasks.

“Your dedication ensures the smooth operation of essential services and programs,” he said.

“This includes those who volunteer through council who assist at the library, performing arts centre, and gallery.”

An exciting opportunity currently exists for a new corporate sponsor to join our school.

Position your business in a prime, busy location on our sponsor board and receive various other benefits while providing essential funds to enable our school to support students with the best possible learning opportunities and facilities.

Please contact Lauren Morris to discuss.

DYNAMIC DUO: Val Matheson and Cheryl Seymour.

MANTLE OF THE COMMUNITY: Shirley Knobel, Jeanette Purcell and Kay Andrewartha.

VERERANS IN VOLUNTEERING: Marg Pullen and Ron Webb. Camillo.

LEADING THE WAY: Helping thanks the many volunteers were Indi federal Independent MP Helen Haines and Mayor Dean Rees.

SPIRITED: Sandra and Jim Buchan with Janis Delaney.

CELEBRATION: Don and Janet Heath.

STEP AHEAD: Bella

put her best running feet forward with determination and a huge smile during the cross country event.

Effort rewarded

Appin Park Primary School

A MAJOR focus and expectation of all the students at Appin Park is that they always try their best.

It doesn’t matter whether it is the classroom, in a specialist subject, on the sports field or with their relationships and connections with peers and adults.

So when the school cross country event takes place there is an air of nervous energy and excitement.

Having support and encouragement from all students, family and friends contributed to a successful completion of the course by all participants.

Red faces and weary legs were soon taken over by smiling faces and a sense of pride from everyone at the finish line.

Confronting challenges allows the students to grow in so many ways, and the understanding of what they are capable of transfers into their learning in the classroom.

Winter wonder

Carraragarmungee Primary School

STUDENTS Alice Richardson, Mia Bell, Bonnie Nottingham and Jaxon Saunders made lanterns out of repurposed glass jars, coloured tissue and glue. These were made in preparation for the Winter Solstice Festival being held this week at the school.

Needless to say the kids were very proud of their creations and excited to show them off to family and community members.

DELIGHTFUL: Carra students (from le ) Alice Richardson, Mia

Bonnie

and

Saunders hold lanterns they made for the Winter Solstice Festival.

Staying warm

ENERGY BOOST: Oxley students

le )

Oxley Primary School

EACH Tuesday and Thursday, students can bring in a lunch to be warmed up in winter. Students Leirah Hallinan, Audrey Hester, Marie Jones and Bella Zabilowicz were among those settling in to enjoy their heated-up lunches.

PREP students joined their year 12 buddies for a lovely lunch in the VCE Centre. Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to spend some quality time together.

GETTING TOGETHER: CCW students (from le )

RACE ON: Students (from le ) Olivia

School

SUN beamed despite the frosty start for the cross country along the Bullawah Trail.

Students took to the track with enthusiasm and dedication as they weaved around the bends of the trail urged on by supporting parents and the eagerness to beat one another.

As they crossed the finish lines, smiles of delight and satisfaction filled their faces.

Steel, William Cook and Gema Winn fight it out for the finish line during the cross country.

Bell,

Nottingham

Jaxon

(from

Leirah Hallinan, Audrey Hester, Marie Jones and Bella Zabilowicz tucked into a warm lunch during the winter season.

Lowe

Micha Thompson, Penelope Neale and Charlotte Brundell settled in the lunch in the VCE Centre.

Victim survivor helps launch UMFC strategic plan

CONOR Pall is a 20-year-old family violence survivor, advocate and author.

He is a young man determined to use his lived experience as a male survivor to drive change that matters.

Conor was a guest speaker at this week’s launch of the Upper Murray Family Care’s Strategic Plan 2024-2028.

As deputy chair of the Victorian Victim Survivor’s Advisory Council, Conor is using his experience to in uence change to ensure that children and young people are seen as victim survivors in their own right.

“The Upper Murray Family Care’s strategic plan has a strong focus on supporting some of the community’s most vulnerable children and young people,” he said.

“We know that far too many children and young people are

living unsafely in their homes.

“I was one of those young people.

“We all have a responsibility to call out violent behaviour and ensure that all children and young people are loved, supported and cared for.”

Felicity Williams, CEO of UMFC said Helen Haines, federal MP for Indi, o cially launched the plan and UMFC’s vision for the local communities.

“We have a clear vision, that by 2028, guided by our strategic priorities and remaining accountable to our local communities, we will endeavour to support local communities within which every child and young person is cared for,” Ms Williams said.

UMFC also welcomed Professor Daryl Higgins, as a keynote speaker.

Professor Higgins is the director of the Institute of Child Protection Studies with Australian Catholic University and discussed the ground-breaking research he helped leadThe Australian Maltreatment Study.

The study was released in 2023 and has identi ed the extent of child maltreatment across our population and its compelling implications for our service and health systems.

UMFC is a community service organisation, reaching across North East Victoria and Southern NSW.

It o ers a diverse range of services and programs that are designed to achieve positive outcomes and sustainable change for children, young people, families, and individuals.

Friday, June 20, 2014

By ANITA McPHERSON

YOUNG people are making their mark in the local neighbourhood, as part of a project adding colour to the Mitchell Avenue Reserve tennis courts.

Students taking part in The Centre’s VCAL Certificate in General Education for Adults course are involved in the collaborative community project involving the Rural City of Wangaratta and the Yarrunga South Wangaratta Action Group, aimed at revitalising the area.

They have been working with Melbourne design

STREET ART: Student

10 years ago 10 years ago

art team Vinage Customs for the last few months, culminating in a workshop on Monday where they designed a mural which would incorporate everyone’s ideas into a single piece of work.

As part of the project, students also took a bus trip to Melbourne to see the city’s graffiti decorated laneways, which have now become a major tourist attraction.

Rural city manager community and recreation, Leonie Painter, said community consultation about the project started around 12 months ago, where the need to refresh and improve safety at the site was identified.

Thomas Hill (front, kneeling) with (back, from le ) Jessica White from the Centre, Mel Mascari, Stacey Harding, artist Adrian D’Altorio, Billy Collison, Joshua Marengo and artist Vinnie Trudea, said a trip to Melbourne to see the laneway gra iti art was a highlight of the project.

Kylie Wilson

“The idea is to try to give the space back to the community, to give them ownership of something they can be proud of, and make it a safer place for local people,” said Ms Painter.

Council hopes to continue improvements at the reserve, with a project to redevelop the old tennis courts into multi-purpose games courts scheduled for the 2015/16 financial year.

PHOTO:

have been supporting WSAC’s aqua aerobics program

Community helps WSAC mark 50 year milestone

By JORDAN DUURSMA

COMMUNITY members

gathered at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre (WSAC) last Friday morning to celebrate the 50th anniversary since the opening of the then Wangaratta Sports Stadium at the HP Barr Reserve.

The crowd enjoyed free coffee, cake and nibbles in a celebration befitting the centre’s years of community service to the people of

Wangaratta and district.

Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees thanked the community and everyone involved for supporting the WSAC and helping it become the community hub it is today.

“We can’t grow without people’s support,” he said.

“Thank you everyone for turning up today and thank you for enjoying this great facility.”

During WSAC’s birthday

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month, new members who join will receive 50 per cent o their rst month, and all members can go in the running for two weeks free membership simply by coming into the centre and tapping their tag.

The facility, owned and managed by council, was opened on June 14, 1974 by then Victorian State Governor Henry Winneke and Mayor Kevin Howard. Its inception began in the

1960s when lawn was sewn for a stadium on land originally part of the golf club.

In the early 1970s council began transforming the site into a sporting precinctbuilding a football oval and pavilion, hockey eld, netball courts, access roads and car park.

It was named HP Barr Reserve in honour of HP Barr, who served as City of Wangaratta mayor from 1964 to 1967.

In the 1980s a further six squash courts were added to the stadium and in the 1990s an upstairs addition for tness and aerobics was opened.

Aquatic facilities were added with the opening of the current 25 metre indoor heated pool and program pool on June 8, 2002.

The centre remained mostly in this form until recently, when in 2020 council began the latest redevelopment, in-

cluding a new 50m outdoor pool, warm water pool, 24/7 gym with state-of-the-art equipment, and the stadium upgrade which is expected to open next month.

During WSAC’s birthday month, new members who join will receive 50 per cent o their rst month, and all members can go in the running for two weeks free membership simply by coming into the centre and tapping their tag.

AQUA AEROBICS REPRESENTED: Phil Vanrush, Jane White, Kerry Burgoyne, Erica Pike, Catherine Harrigan and Margaret Roy

weekly over the years. and Cr Harvey Benton joined in the celebrations.

with immaculate shedding

Located at 198 Tone Road, Wangaratta this home boasts an array of features.

It is situated on a large 741m2 allotment with shedding sure to impress.

The double storey home features open plan kitchen/living dining areas and separate lounge all on the first floor.

The kitchen is modern and showcases an island bench, electric wall oven and electric cooktop.

Also on the first floor is the main

bathroom and two bedrooms.

Upstairs you will find the main bedroom featuring WIR, ensuite and separate toilet along with another bedroom.

Heating and cooling throughout the home is well catered for with new split systems in multiple rooms offering various options to heat and cool all year round.

The property is currently tenanted at $480/per week until February 15.

Step outside and appreciate the well-

maintained yard and immaculate shedding.

Spanning the width of the block this shed and storage is a real rarity.

The 17Mx13.5M shed is fitted with two roller doors, concrete floor, power, and toilet.

If you are currently in the market for a property with these features only minutes’ drive to Wangaratta CBD, call Nutrien Harcourts today..

Wangaratta branch

76 Reid Street

Open weekdays

9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)

1300 004 863 humebank.com.au

THIS perfect lifestyle opportunity is in a great location only minutes from the popular townships of Oxley and Milawa and a 15-minute drive to Wangaratta. The property consists of two spacious bedrooms, both with built in wardrobes, open plan living with adjoining dining and kitchen area.

Heating and cooling are well catered for with split system air conditioning plus a wood combustion heater to keep you comfortable all year round.

Externally there is a carport for car storage plus a garden shed, established gardens and trees, reliable bore for garden water and a rainwater tank for household use.

ONLINE CLEARING SALE

sundry items & bric-a-brac.

Fencing is in great condition and with fertile soil types it would be an ideal property for a hobby farmer.

This property is in immaculate condition and is all up to date and ready to go. Contact Nutrien Harcourts now to arrange your private inspection.

Swift move to electric power after 41 years

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

SWIFT might not be the most appropriate word, but after 41 years in Australia, the titular Suzuki vehicle that has consistently been near the top of the compact car segment, has gone hybrid.

Core of the 2024 Swift is a petrol/electric power system and stop/start motor created especially for improved fuel e ciency in the built environment.

Core of the works is an integrated starter generator that swings into action to give the vehicle extra shove when the accelerator is pressed.

The ISG takes power from a lithium-ion battery recharged when the brakes are applied.

The motor also kicks in under hard acceleration to cut the demand on the fuel supply.

The petrol engine, too, has been replaced by a new unit delivering increased low-speed torque (up at 3000rpm by 10 per cent).

The new set-up was given an exhaustive (exhausting?) workout on the Queensland media launch through the back streets and highways of a chaotic Brisbane, a city in the throes of working to take on the 2032 Olympic Games.

Not surprisingly, the stop/ start system got a real workout, which it appeared to relish.

Needless to say, with a three-cylinder engine of 1197cc (60.8kW at 5700rpm) overtaking was restrained but the lowdown pulling power (111.8Nm at 4500rpm) plus the benefit of the ISG, had the CVT automatic transmission making

good time o the mark.

Fuel consumption is claimed by Suzuki to be 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle.

On the 60km-plus launch drive with five cars the average recorded was between four and five litres per hundred kilometres.

The new Swift comes in four variants featuring either a five-speed manual transmission or CVT.

Prices start at $24,490 for the entry-level manual, with the CVT adding $1000.

Top-rated GLX is $27,990.

The new Swift trumps its

predecessor with superior comfort, infotainment and driving experience.

Looks are generally within the small-car playbook, the latest model sporting a newstyle piano black grille and L-shaped lights that merge into flowing body lines.

The Swift Hybrid maintains the wheelbase, width and height of its predecessor, but gains 15mm in length and more cargo space through the push-back of the rear hatch. Inside, the black and grey colour scheme pulls together all elements of the driver’s controls.

Front seats have been

reshaped, while a nine inch infotainment display sits atop the central dashboard o ering USB and wi-fi connections, featuring satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB+ audio.

Also displayed are vehicle performance data, including fuel level, cruising range, warnings and rear-view camera vision.

Other features include steering-wheel-mounted audio and phone controls, trip computer, keyless start, leaving headlight function, privacy glass on rear windows, tra c sign recognition; Type

A and C USB ports on the Swift Hybrid Plus and GLX; high beam assist and LED daytime running lights.

The new Swift Hybrid incorporate active and passive safety systems stamping the fifth generation as the safest on record.

These come within Suzuki’s Heartect platform which leads compact car design in dispersing impact energy in a crash.

The Swift Hybrid is stocked in pure pearl white but has the option of being ordered in the colours of the Hybrid Plus and GLX.

These include premium silver metallic, flame orange pearl metallic and a two-tone with blue pearl metallic with black pearl roof.

All Swift Hybrids are covered by a five-year warranty, which also takes in the lithium-ion battery.

Suzuki considers major rivals to include MG3, Mazda 2 and Yaris across all age brackets, probably with those looking for a little more room as in the new Swift.

■ KEEPING UP WITH THE TIMES: Suzuki makes the long awaited change to hybrid power for the popular Swifts.

Rural City Connection

The next Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held on Tuesday 25 June at 3pm in Council Chambers at the Wangaratta Government Centre. Questions may be asked by those in attendance and can also be submitted before 10am on the day of the meeting by emailing council@wangaratta.vic.gov. au. An agenda will be available on Council’s website www. wangaratta.vic.gov.au/agendas. For those unable to attend, the meeting can be viewed live online or as a recording, via Council’s YouTube channel. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/YourCouncil/Council-meetings/Council-meeting-videos

Local Shop Hop

Each month we are showcasing the cool, quirky, and unique shopping spots across our region. Until November 2024, residents and visitors alike are invited to explore charming townships for a chance to win some awesome prizes. Make a purchase at participating businesses, scan the QR code at point of purchase, and you’re in! This month we are highlighting Eldorado.

Road Naming proposal: Wangaratta Cemetery –233 Tone Road Wangaratta

Council is proposing to name several roads associated with the Wangaratta Cemetery. Council is conducting community consultation on the proposed names “Augustine Boulevard”, “Pampas Boulevard”, “Fescue Way”, “Poa Drive”, “Bermuda Drive” and “Napier Circuit” as part of the official naming rules for places in Victoria.

Submissions can be made via email: planningmail@wangaratta. vic.gov.au; mail :PO Box 238, Wangaratta VIC 3676; or in person: Planning and Building customer service counter, Wangaratta Government Centre. Please include "Road Naming proposal: Wangaratta Cemetery – 233 Tone Road Wangaratta” in the subject line of your correspondence. For further information, please contact (03) 5722 8121 or visit our website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Public-notices

Submissions due COB Friday 5 July.

Wangaratta Art Gallery School Holiday WorkshopPet Accessories

Join us this school holiday to create a unique accessory for your furry friend. In this workshop you will be designing and creating accessories that perfectly match your pet’s personality and style, and help you bring your creative visions to life. Friday 5 & 12 July, 10am - 12pm. To find out more and book your place visit the Gallery’s website www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au

Notice for Public Consultation

Location 246 Old Hume Highway (now named Outcrop Road) Proposal Council is proposing to formalise a road deviation at land known as 246 Old Hume Highway (now named Outcrop Road). The proposal arises out of a subdivision of land at 184 Old Hume Highway granted under Planning permit – PlnApp18/160 and undertaken in stages.

The proposal can be viewed on our website www.wangaratta. vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Public-Notices. Any person who may be affected by the proposal may object or make a submission (in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888.

Submissions due COB Friday 5 July.

Community Grants Now Open

The annual Community Grants Program is now open! The Program empowers organisations dedicated to making a positive impact within our community.

Applications due COB Tuesday 2 July. Visit the Community Grants page of our website for more details.

Synergy Youth Hub

Synergy Youth Hub is open for 12–17-year-olds on Monday afternoons from 3.30-5.30pm. Hang out or join the activities: 24 June: Personnel Group & FreeZa. 29 Flanagan St, Wangaratta.

Application for approval of a Development Plan

- Wangaratta North West Growth Areas – Precinct 5, incorporating land known as 145 Lindner Road (Lot 1 PS424546 Vol 10444 Fol 722 and Lot 2 PS424546 Lindner Road (Vol 10444 Fol 723).

The plans and principle supporting documentation associated with the Development Plan proposal are available for viewing on Council’s website. Further documents are available upon request. Interested and affected parties are invited to make comment for consideration during the assessment. Submissions must be made in writing (email: planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov. au or post: PO Box 238 Wangaratta Vic 3676), please include reference to ‘Precinct 5 Development Plan’.

For further information please contact the Planning Department on 03 5722 0888 or via planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov.au. Submissions due COB Friday 28 June.

Tenders

T12999 Supply Seed, Chemical & Fertiliser Tenders close COB on Wednesday 26 June.

Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Council’s website.

Animal Registration Renewals

State legislation advises that animal registration renewals are now overdue. If you haven’t received your renewal notice in the mail (sent in March, reminders in May) please contact Customer Service to update your details. If you have been sent a notice for an animal no longer in your care or one that has deceased, please notify Customer Service to remove the animal from our register. Payment plans are available to those experiencing financial difficulty. Nonpayment will result in a fine.

Positions Vacant

For further information on these positions please visit

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

Alpine Valleys Community Leadership has vacancies for volunteer Board directors. Please see https://bit.ly/avclboard2024 for further details. Applications close: 5pm, Wednesday 31 July 2024

The Truth About Abortion

Did you know 1 in 4 Australian pregnancies end in termination?

Have you ever really thought about the WHY?

This rarely discussed, controversial issue will be presented openly, honestly and without judgement. Come learn the facts, identify the real causes, draw your own conclusion – you may be surprised by what you didn’t know.

Hosted by: Paige Willoughby Free event tickets and further information at www.eventbrite.com truth about abortion/Wangaratta

is hosting a dinner meeting with lead researcher, Associate Professor Jim Radford, from La Trobe’s Research Centre for Future Landscapes at the Town & Country Hotel in Wangaratta on Thursday, June 27 at 6.30pm for 7pm. Farm-scale Natural Capital Accounting, is the culmination of four years’ hard work, spanning 50 farms across New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. Prof Radford will explain how farmers can use the results of this project to improve their management of natural capital and measure their farm performance, while maintaining natural resources and biodiversity.

Wangaratta & District Mens Shed Inc. AGM will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 2pm at the Mens Shed, Shanley Street, Wangaratta.

Expression of Interest Commercial Builders

Registrations sought for Commercially Registered Builders for ST MONICA’S PRIMARY SCHOOL WODONGA

New Administration

New Construction 495m2

To Visit Visited

ANTIQUES and collectables, Sunday, June 23, 9am-3pm, 31 Roy Street, East Wangaratta.

To Visit Visited

HOUSEHOLD items, furniture and baseball gear, Saturday 22, 8am-1pm, 17 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers behavioural solutions. Ph 0418 314 610.

GUTTER CLEANING, hedge trimming, cleaning, pruning, garden tidy up, rubbish removal, odd jobs, 25 years trade experience. Phone Michael 0412 857 771.

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.

To Visit Visited

SUNDAY, June 23, 8am. Toys, clothes and books clear out, household items, 19 College Street, Wangaratta.

PLASTERER, no job too small. Ph 0424 911 161.

Demolition and landscaping Tenderer’s registration to be evaluated on: Submission quality; Previous company experience; Personnel experience; Current commitments; Financial viability; References or past experience with client and design team; Proximity; and Ability to provide an appropriate service on this project.

Registration does not imply selection on limited tender list. Documents expected to be released to selected tender list in July/August 2024

Registrations by email only by 7 July 2024 to kenwoodman@no42architects.com.au

Contact Ken Woodman 0427 424 201 No. 42 Architects Pty Ltd

CREATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Entry level position.

Come join our Creative Services team! The creative services department provides graphic design services, pre-press services, IT troubleshooting and editorial pagination support for over 25 newspapers and magazines across North East Victoria and Southern NSW.

Skills and Experience

• Basic/Intermediate computer skills

• Willingness to learn

• An eye for detail

If you are looking for a challenge in

Applications should be forwarded to:

driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

For more RSVP information contact Pat Larkin on (03) 5721 8325 or mugsville@westnet.com.au

Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa? 5723 0101

Vacancies

DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.

Creative

EMPLOYMENT

Administration Maternity Leave Position

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.

You will work within the administration team focusing on reception, classifieds, accounts and general administration duties.

Skills and Experience

Prior experience in an administration position

• Ability to handle debtor/creditor queries

Solid computer skills, including experience with excel and word

• Exceptional attention to detail, and accurate data entry

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• The ability to work in a team-based environment

Proven time management skills and ability to prioritise urgent work

While this is a maternity leave position, we envisage that the role will lead to an ongoing employment opportunity at the at the end of the 12-month maternity leave period.

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: Karen Spokes Administration Manager kspokes@nemedia.com.au

RED Pajero “Activ”, 2010 model, 3.2 L turbo diesel, automatic transmission, LED light bar, factory bullbar, excellent condition, complete history, serviced by the book. BF Goodrich tyres, new Kenwood Radio with Apple/Android CarPlay, (1VL7RA) 246,000 km, $17,000 with roadworthy. Ph 0428 736 630.

TOYOTA RAV4 2020 GXL,immac,white,reg (764ZEH), 75,000km with books, serviced by Toyota, extra 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, tow ball pack, mud flaps, wireless phone charging, $36,000. Phone Anne 0417 774 074.

FORD Ranger XLT (1KK1SJ), automatic 2017, 146,000km, diesel, long range tank, Red Arc electric brakes, dual batteries, just had service, transmission serviced every 50,000km, $35,500. Ph 0427 273 796.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

1996 Opal Pop Top caravan, double island bed, full gas stove, 3-way fridge, annex, reg F32442 23/11/24, $7000 ono. Ph (02) 6032 9409.

2014 Jayco Starcraft V91992 16ft 6in, PopTop, 2 single beds, shower-toilet, solar power, diesel heater, $31,800 neg. Ph 03 5766 2657.

CARAVANS AND CAMPERS

BEATTIE, Kevin William. 11/3/1941 - 15/6/2024

Loved husband of Maureen of 57 years. Loving father of Kendall, James, Christian and Michael, father in-law of Michelle.

Friend of Jamie, Natasha, Michelle and many loving family members and friends.

Cherished grandfather of Laura, Ellie, Jacob, Sam, Mikaela and Oscar.

M7 Max Trainer, as new condition, $1200. Phone Paul 0497 117 458.

FIREWOOD for sale, good dry hardwood, cut your own to size, ute load plus trailer load for $300. Call 0428 970 591.

PACKAGE Deal, for genuine sale 2004 Ford F250, 7.3hr Diesel, 291. 685km, has near new bravo a/t Maxxis 980 tyres, plus 2 spares on back, rear camera, rear airbag suspension, 274ltr fuel capacity plus 100ltr tank under rear canopy, rear slide on picnic table, central locking system, Hayman Rees tow ball, top winch to help load the boat, plus 5000 pound bull bar winch, lots storage includes 2x60ltr fridge slides, plus boat motor slide, 2 large draws in canopy, lots storage above canopy and below 3x120 Uni solar panels, has pro star solar controls wired ready to go, 4 glass matt batteries, plus built in charger, built in compressor. Side steps and bull bar all aluminum, driving lights CB radio, electric brake system to suit caravan, fully services and will sell with road worthy.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $28 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

TIMBER, fencing and post rails, garden sleepers, decking, pallet, onsite milling. Ph 0439 576 625.

YELLOW Hyundai sedan, 2000, (1YM9QQ), 218,242km, great car for new drivers, 5 speed manual, $4500 ono, located Mansfield. Ph 0439 719 529

Caravan, 2004 Kedron Cross Country, made in Brisbane, 20ft inside, electric brakes, pullout awning, has matching wheels as the F250, dual axle plus 2 spares. 2 x jerry can, holders at rear, in front bin has 4 x glass matt batteries, pro star solar controls invertor, has 4x120 Uni solar panels on roof, tv antenna, fold up side cooking table built on side, steps that gold up on the door, single beds with inner spring mattresses, wired for CPAP machines x 2, lots storage cupboards, built with Tasmanian oak, 4 burner stove with grill and oven, 240ltr Vitri Frigo, full sink, wired for TV, reverse cycle air con, Island bench table with storage under seats, storage under beds, brand new elec and gas hot water service (never used), water filters and hoses, electric legs, A-Trail Jack plus ockie wheel, 2 wind stiffeners pegs and mat (outside 8x4m) original tyres and rims for caravan, out door shower, 5 water tanks, one tank for drinking only, carpet or vinyl flooring, wired for 12 volt or 240 volt, full annex plus extra plus sun shade, never used, new wheel bearings (never used), 2 gas bottles, front bin and generator compartment, very clean and neat, has lots of extra’s as well. $139,900 ono package deal, will consider splitting, but they do compliment one another. Boat not included. Ph 0427 936 630.

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

Best wishes for your 90th ~ Love Beat, Neville, Mark, Glenda, Brendan, Kevin and partners, and all the Grandkids and GreatGrandchildren.

BARBER, Andrew William. 23/8/1943 – 12/6/2024

Loving husband of Dianne and father of Leigh and Steven.

Privately cremated.

BEATTIE, Kevin.

The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care are saddened by the passing of Kevin Beattie who has been part of our community. We would like to pass on our deepest sympathy to his family and friends during this difficult time.

CORSINI, Gino.

The Staff and residents of Illoura Residential Aged Care are saddened by the recent passing of Gino Corsini. We would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gino during this difficult time.

A life dedicated to providing for his family, with cherished memories. LOVE IS ETERNAL

Special thank you to staff at Illoura Residential Aged Care for their kindness and care.

CAVALLIN, Lucia Angela Lucy.

In loving memory of Lucy who passed away suddenly at home on Wednesday, June 18, 2024. Loving daughter of Narciso and Carmela (both dec). Sister of Angelo (dec) and sister-in-law of Julie.

Much loved Zia and Bis Zia of Johanna, Davide and Alex, Tania, Joel and Chloe, Mick, Rachael, Olivia, Millie and Oscar.

CORSINI, Gino. 15/5/1933 – 18/6/2024

Dearly loved and loving husband of Carmel (dec).

Much loved father and father-in-law of Janene and Ian, Peter and Tracey, Franco and Jean, Linda and Trent. Adored Nonno of Kai, Lani, Josh, Mia, Reuben, Lara, Leticia, Sienna, Callem, Hayden, Amber and Ebony.

CORSINI, Gino.

Gino, a good brother and hardworking family man. Achieved a lot in his 91years. Rest in peace Gino. ~ Dino Corsini and Verna.

ELWARD, Gwen.

Dear friend of Janet and Ken Clarke and Dawn and Brian Fox.

A lady whose many talents were only exceeded by her love of family and community.

Deepest sympathy to John, Joanne, Steven, Anthony and their families. Rest in God’s Garden Gwen.

ELWARD, Gwen.

Wareena Park Bowls Club would like to extend their deepest sympathy to John and family on the passing of Gwen.

She was a dedicated Member, Past President, Life Member and Mentor to all.

Always loved and forever remembered. Rest in peace.

PATTISON, Myra.

The Staff of Illoura Residential Aged Care would like to pass on their condolences to the family and friends of Myra Pattison. Her passing has saddened the Illoura community.

BEATTIE

A funeral service in thanksgiving for the life of Mr Kevin William Beattie will be celebrated in Holy Trinity Cathedral, 6 The Close Wangaratta on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of refreshments for a burial at Devenish Cemetery, Benalla-Tocumwal Rd, Devenish.

No flowers by request, donations may be made to Fight Parkinson’s via this link https://fundraise.fightparkinsons.org.au/ fundraiser/michellebeattie/in-memory-ofkevin-beattie?enref=6dcfb6f0a527486cae516d a973b161d1

GOZNIK

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Wilhelm Goznik will be held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 20 Lakeside Ave, Mount Beauty on Thursday, June 27, 2024 commencing at 11am.

NIKLAUS

A funeral service to honour the life of Shirley Anne Niklaus “Tilly” will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta at 11.30am on Monday, June 24, 2024 followed by a private cremation.

GREENWOOD, Donald James.

Words cannot adequately express the heartfelt gratitude to all staff at NE Health ICU and Surgical for their care and kindness to Don.

Also the paramedics, district nurses, homecare and friends for the flowers, food, cards, phone calls, visits, love and support.

To the Lions Club Guard of Honour and Mason Park Funerals who helped make a special farewell to Don. ~ The Greenwood family.

Cherished Memories

PATTISON, Myra Teresa. 14/7/1924 – 15/6/2024

Beloved wife of Ernest (dec).

Loved mother of Mary and Raymond. Cherished grandmother of Stacey, Anthony and Jin. Forever in our hearts.

James Joseph “Jamie”. 16 February 1956 – 15 June 2024

Late of Wangaratta and formerly of Redwood, Cavendish.

Loving husband of Susie.

Dearly loved father and father-in-law to Sandy and Laura, Tom and Edwina, Nick and Sammi, Annie and Ben.

Adored grandfather to 11.

A memorial service will be held on July 4, 2024 at 1pm at ‘The Long Room’, MCG.

WATERS, James Joseph. 16/2/1956 – 15/6/2024

Much loved son of Mary Rodda and brother of Tony, John and Rob. Rest in peace James.

A memorial service will be held at the MCG at 1pm on July 4, 2024.

ZAMPERONI, Alfonso. 13/7/1934 – 18/6/2024

Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health, Wangaratta with his loving family by his side.

Devoted and loving husband of Olinda of 61 years.

Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Maurice and Jenny, Sonia and Kevin, Nella and Paul.

Doting Nonno of Jenna, Georgia, Luca, Ebony, Aimee, Aleesha, Joshua, Alexandra and Sam.

The best Bis Nonno of Noah, Hugo, Scarlett and baby Lani.

You may be gone from our sight, but you are never gone from our hearts. Forever in our hearts, rest in peace.

CAVALLIN

Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Lucy Cavallin will be offered in Our Lady’s Catholic Church, Corner of White Street and Murdoch Road, Wangaratta on Friday, June 28, 2024 commencing at 1.30pm followed by interment in the vault section of the Wangaratta Cemetery. Rosary will be recited prior to mass at 1pm.

CORSINI

A funeral service to honour the life of Gino Corsini will be held at North East Funerals, Bell Room, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 commencing at 1pm.

PATTISON

A funeral service to honour the life of Myra Teresa Pattison will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta at 11.30am on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 followed by interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

A private cremation will follow the service.

ZAMPERONI

Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Alfonso Zamperoni will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024 at St Mary's Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford commencing at 11am. Interment will follow the service at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery. Rosary will be recited on Friday, June 28, 2024 at St Mary's Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford commencing at 10.30am.

DYER, Herbert “Bert”. June 21, 2014 RIP It’s now 10 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; Wendy and Geoff. XOXO

PORTER (Adamo), Lynne Maree. 20/1/1957–22/6/2022

Phone: 03 5723 0101

Our precious girl, how we loved you. So sadly missed. ~ Mum, Dad and her extended family.

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

June 15

Par: 1st Round President’s Cup

A Grade: Andrew Skewes +4.

B Grade: Gavin Braybrook +6.

C Grade: John McKenzie +2.

D Grade: Daniel Fogarty 0.

Ball Winners: Nigel Cooper (2 balls) +2, Phillip Densten +2, Doug Ritchens +1, Gary Dinsdale +1, Kenneth Beitzel +1, Mark Hall 0, John Fitzgerald 0, Craig French 0, Wayne Roberts 0, Willie Lombard 0, Steve Fisher 0, Alex Gibbs, Ian Dinsdale, Martin Van Ree -1.

Super 9

Shirt: Lee Freeland 24 points.

Aroma Deli: Nigel Cooper 20 points.

2 balls: Doug Ritchens on Countback from others 20 points.

NTP: 4th Steve Fisher, 8th Ken Beitzel, 13th Neville Hogan, 17th Glen O’Connell.

June 15

Par

Winner: Marion Hunt -1.

Ball Winners: Judy Fogarty -2, Yogie Naidoo -3.

NTP: 8th Kellie Roberts.

Sunday, June 16

2 person ambrose and stableford

Winner: Mary Jones & Wayne Roberts 65.

Runner Up: Kaye Pink & Michael Cordier 67.50.

S’ford winner: Aaron Kungl 37 pts.

Ball Winners: Matthew Nunn (2) 34, Trevor Morris 34, Mark Dean 33.

NTP: 4th Wayne Roberts-Wendy Hogan, 8th Chris Palmer-Angela Mitchell, 13th Attila Kungl-Mary Jones, 17th Chris Palmer.

Monday, June 17

Stableford-Veterans

A Grade: Pat Ernst 37.

B Grade: Paul McInerney 32.

Ball Winners: Peter Geldens 36, Andy Walker 35, Ian Dinsdale 34, Martin VanRhee 33.

NTP: 4th Pat Ernst, 8th Mike Monro, 13th Pat Ernst.

Tuesday, June 18

Ladies 18 Hole Stroke

Winner: Erica Lombard 70.

Ball Winners: Joy Hester (2) 76, Di Murphy 78.

NTP: 4th Liane Graham, 8th Erica Lombard, 13th Bruna McDonald, 17th Di Murphy.

Wednesday, June 19

Mens 9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Mark Dean 23.

Ball Winners: Ray Gibbs 2 Balls 18. NTP: 8th Mark Dean.

Wednesday, June 19

Mens 18 Hole Stableford

A Grade: Eon Scott 40.

B Grade: Alan Sands 34.

C Grade: David Richards 40.

Ball Winners: Michael Cordier 2 Balls 38, Michael Baillie 37, Simon Godfrey 36, Noel Holmes 36, Pat

Ernst 35, Peter Ford 35, John Fitzgerald 35, Brian Wallace 34. Simon Godfrey Eagle on the 2nd.

NTP: 4th Steve Fisher, 8th Nigel Cooper, 13th Glen O’Connell, 17th Keith Moorhead.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending June 16

Tuesday, June 11

Women’s

18 Hole Stableford

Wednesday, June 12

Men’s Competition

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Kurt Schubert 34 points C/B.

Runner Up: Trevor Clark 34 points.

NTP: 4th Kurt Schubert, 7th Trevor Trimble, 9th Trevor Cooper, 11th Trevor Cooper, 13th Trevor Cooper, 16th Kurt Schubert.

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Graeme Arnold 19 points.

Runner Up: Keith Fleet 16 points.

Thursday, June 13

Monthly Medal

18 Hole Winner: Sue McCall 69 nett.

Runner Up: Ros Gormley 71 nett C/B.

Ball Winner: Barb Woodward, Dona Harper, Candice Jones, Glenda Dodson, Susan Miller, Carol Coghill, Dianne Phillips, Maggie Ray

NTP 9th: Maggie Ray.

9 Hole Winner: Sue McCall 18 Points.

Runner Up: Ros Gormly 17 Points.

NTP 13th: Lois Fitzpatrick.

Saturday, June 1

Mens Presidents Gold Cup

A Grade Winner: Ethan Roach 38 points C/B.

A Grade Runner Up: Trevor Clark 38 points.

B Grade Winner: Craig Donoghue 38 points.

B Grade Runner Up: Peter King 37 points.

Ball Winners: Jake Burns, David O’Brien, Darren Burns, Glenn Burns, Jason Oats, Josh Owen, Daniel

Bihun, Peter Moncriedd.

NTP: 4th Craig Bihun, 7th Andrew Mott, 9th Matt Fischer, 11th Daniel Bihun, 13th Christopher Martens, 16th Trevor Cooper.

Secret 6: Jake Burns.

Hole In One 13th: Christopher Martens.

McDonalds Birdie: Trevor Cooper, Christopher Martens, Robert Murray.

Subway Birdie: Christopher Martens.

Eagle 13th: Christopher Martens.

Raffle Winner: Daymn Hoffard.

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Dawn Fleet 33 Points.

Runner Up: Sue McCall 30 Points.

NTP: 9th Barbara Thomas.

Sunday, June 16

18 Hole Medley Stableford

Winner: Evan Laverty 36 Points.

Runner Up: Hayley Kuiper 33 Points.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

Tarra ladies played their June Monthly Medal last Tuesday.

The medal recipient was Di McLaughlin.

Lucia Dapos came in with the next best score.

NTP on the second was Di McLaughlin.

Until further notice while the frosty mornings prevail, Tarra Ladies will have a starting time of 9.30am for a 10.00am tee off.

WANGARATTA CROQUET CLUB

Results for Monday, June 17 are as follows:

Cheryle Beckley and Terry Wilson d Maureen O’Keefe and Robyn Muller 7/3, Nathan Reynolds and Christine Ireland d Margaret Bennett and Wendy Waddington 7/4, Susan Fischer d Andy Barbero 7/6.

Also on Monday, Christine Ireland scored a beautiful Hoop in One and Andy Barbero ran some hoops with jump shots using the Barnes-Wallis “bouncing bomb” method.

This weekend, Maureen O’Keefe, partnering Shane Downie is playing in the Rich River Handicap Doubles Tournament while Terry Wilson has entered with Nathan Reynolds, a member at Yarrawonga.

Play is on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1.00pm.

Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

WARBY WALKERS

Wednesday, June 19

White Box Walk, Chiltern-Mt Pilot NP

This midweek walk, was held in the afternoon and attended by 11 walkers who rugged up to brave the cold forecast of an expected high of 11 degrees.

Meeting at the start point, the Honeyeater Picnic Area, we started with lunch and hot cuppa’s before heading off on the 8.5k loop track.

The highlights of our walk were the Golden Bar Open-Cut Mine and the landscape that has been altered by mining over 100 years ago and now features mullock heaps. We sighted two wallabies, a number of Scarlet Robins delighted us in the picnic area and elsewhere during the walk and we sighted a dozen or more White-winged Chough.

The forest includes Red Stringybark, Blakely’s Redgums, Mugga Ironbark, Apple Box, White Box, Red Box and we came across two grass trees.

We stopped for a snack at the ‘quiet area’ and finished the walk back at the Honeyeater Picnic area with afternoon tea.

Parks Victoria was kind enough to provide some brochures at the information board that enabled us to identify the birds and trees.

It turned out we walked in the best part of the day (just double temperature figures for the duration of our time there) with some sunshine before the sky clouded over and Chiltern had reached a high of 11.9 degrees.

Coming events

Saturday, July 6

Mansion Loop, Stanley Forest (Lesley, 0439 776 687)

A medium loop walk of approx 12k beginning at the site of a grand old Beechworth home.

The route will include forestry tracks and logging roads in the Stanley Forest area, including Twist Creek Road, Rawe’s Road and Running Creek Track.

There will be some steep sections, most of which are for a short distance.

Sunday, July 21

Mount Wombat and Polly McQuinn’s Weir (Anne, 0427 576 664)

An easy return walk of approx 5.5k on gravel track to Mount Wombat, located at the Mount Wombat Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Climbing/descending approx 150m in elevation, 360-degree views, including to Waranga Basin and Goulburn Weir.

Followed by another short walk in the area, and a picnic lunch at Polly McGuinn’s Weir.

WEEKEND HIT: Peter King enjoys a morning hit at the Wangaratta Golf Club.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Chilly night, but thrilling table tennis at Oxley

LIKE Collingwood’s close shave victory over North Melbourne last weekend, there were many close shave victories in the tight contest between the 24 players who toughed it out at the Oxley social table tennis competition last Monday.

In the first of many contests for the night, Neil Spurgeon hit the floor running when he and Phoebe Morgan joined forces to take on ‘sharpshooter’ Sharlene Gervasoni and William Bonwick.

In the star-studded contest, that showcased every shot in the book, laced with a bit of luck, each player complemented his/her partner’s well delivered placements as they fought for the upper hand.

After the lead going point for point from go to whoa, it was Phoebe and Neil who won by a whisker.

Though outside temperatures were in the single dig-

its, Paul Lawrence, dressed down to his shorts, partnered the rugged-up Don Heath, in hot pursuit of opponents Richard Morgan and Cheryl Coad.

With neither pair offering up any ‘softies’, spectators grew ‘hot under their collars’ as they sweated out the spectacle of the never-say-die battle.

And not surprisingly, another razor-sharp contest was won in a tiebreaker.

When ‘up and coming’ Millie Bosley partnered her dad Adam, opponents June Uebergang and Graham Stephens knew they had a big job ahead of them.

With Millie’s high bouncing serves, backed up by Adam’s straight down the line precision, June and Graham were under constant pressure to decide when and where to deliver the killer shots.

An early lead by Millie and Adam was gradually pegged

RETURNED:

back as June and Graham pulled their act together, capitalising on ‘age and experience’ to set up the tie breaker, which resulted in one pair winning by the skin of their teeth.

A ‘ding dong’ performance

between Manni Poulos partnered by ‘new boy on the block’ Ken Parker, and opponents Debbie Brunken and Gary Coad, had spectators on the edge of their seats from the first lightningpaced serve in a test of eve-

ryone’s minds and bodies.

No ‘ifs, couldas or shouldas’ were on anyone’s minds as they threw themselves into the contest with reckless abandon.

Holding a slight lead late in the game, it was Manni and Ken’s game to win, but with a desperate injection of power and glory, Debbie and Gary pinched it from under their noses.

A ‘rip-roarer’ game was on show from the first point when Janet Heath and Neil Brock lined up against ‘competition debutante’ Maree Parker and Katies Woodberry.

While Kanet spread herself over the table, and with Neil wearing his ‘racing plates’ thin, they took the game up to, but not away from the all-round accurate stroke making by Maree and ‘desperado’ Katie.

But all good things must come to an end, and it was Maree and Katie who cel-

ebrated a narrow victory.

A tough encountered was on show when the bare-footed ‘blast for the past’ Ben Bonwick, and his ‘go get ‘em’ partner Mich Gervasoni, took on ‘fly by night’ Kate Cole and the ‘bold bounder’ Clive Brooker.

Power personified was mixed with deftness of touch in the entertaining game of cat and mouse until the final point.

Big smiles and hearty handshakes indicated a close shave win by both pairs.

The last ‘game’ of the evening was held around the supper table, where everyone enjoyed a cuppa, a chomp and a chat.

Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley hall every Monday night beginning at 7pm – BYO bat, $2 entry, and a small plate to share.

Dragons busy on the field

THE division two Wangaratta Dragons ladies played a midweek evening game away in Wodonga.

The game did not disappoint, and despite going down 1-0 in the first half, there was some great defensive play, with the opposition having multiple penalty corners.

The second half of the game saw Wodonga score two more goals.

With nothing to lose, the Wan-

garatta ladies kept pushing and were rewarded with a great team goal in the fourth quarter.

The Dragons put on some great passages of play in the last quarter, working the ball out of defence, through midfield and onto our strikers.

End result was a 3-1 loss to Wodonga, but there are lots of positives to take moving forward.

The Dragons backed up for their Sunday game, played in sunny conditions. Passes were short, fast and accurate leading to Kate Reilley trickling the ball into United’s goals in the first quarter. Great play continued as the forward line worked effortlessly with the midfield, which wouldn’t have been possible without great

defence and communication from the backs.

The game included a fantastic save by goalie ‘Turtle’, but in the end United took the win 2-1.

The division three women lost 2-0 against Scots on Saturday, but not without a fight.

Scots were lucky to get the two goals, as defenders Jane Kealy, Brooke Monshing and Charlotte

Bongers, one of the juniors, who stepped up to play, fought hard defending the goals.

The ball was passed around nicely using the three-man weave which got around the Scot’s players into goals.

Brianna Cooper played midfield, and played an excellent game being in position attacking and defending.

Kate Cole and Clive Brooker send the ball back over the net.

Grand final rematch match previews

By NATHAN DE VRIES

FOR the first time since the 2023 O&K senior football grand final, and for the only time in the home and away season, Bright and Bonnie Doon will go head-to-head this weekend.

Memories of the last time these two teams squared off will be fresh in the players’ minds, be it heart breaking disappointment for the Mountain Men, or pure elation for the Bombers.

In a quirk of this season’s fixture, this weekend’s round 12 will be the only time the two sides will face off outside of a potential bout in finals.

Bright coach Paul Harrison said it was unfortunate this would be the sides’ only meeting outside September, but he was eager for the chance to play against a great team.

“We can’t do anything about the draw, we’ve just got to move on with it and take our opportunity to see what they look like this weekend,” he said.

“We know it’s going to be a challenging game, but these are the games you want to play and games you want to win.

“Running around, winning by 20 goals all the time is albeit fun, but if we want to take that one step further this year we have to win games like these against Bonnie Doon on the weekend.

“We’ve been training over the last couple of weeks for a few different styles of game that we’ll throw in, depending on how it’s

Undefeated squads

Milawa, Greta to finally face off on Saturday

By NATHAN DE VRIES

IT’S taken 12 rounds of netball action, but at long last, the two best teams in the A grade competition will finally line up against each other on the court in what is sure to be a brilliant display of skill.

Last year’s grand finalists, Greta and Milawa, are each having a tremendous season to date, but both will be out to hand the other their first loss of the year.

Their last encounter, on the league’s biggest Saturday in September, fell the way of the Blues 52-44.

Greta coach Loren McClounan said it was always a privilege to play against the Demons, and said the aim for the match would be error mitigation.

“We’re really looking forward to the match against Milawa, it’s always a really great competitive game,” she said.

“With it being one vs two it will give us a good indication of where we are at and what we need to work on moving forward.

panning out and see what we can come up with.”

Goal kicking dynamo Cooper Thomason will make his return after serving a two-match suspension for striking, and will bolster a threatening Bright forward line.

The Mountain Men’s depth has been tested in recent weeks, with a spate of injuries forcing some classy players onto the sidelines.

“I must admit, over the last month we’ve been feeling the pinch of some injuries starting to take a toll,” Harrison said.

“We’ve had injuries before, but never like what we’re experiencing this year – three knees, we’ve had a few hamstrings, one’s gone overseas, we had one last weekend who broke his collar bone, Chad Martin last weekend did the ligaments in his ankle.

“It has taken a bit of pain over the last month, but we should start to get them back over the next two months.

“At the end of the day, that’s footy, it happens.”

Harrison said the match would be won or lost around stoppages.

Bright and Bonnie doon to recreate 2023 decider

Hoppers keeping structures fresh

By NATHAN DE VRIES

MOYHU are more than happy to throw the magnets around and see what works against Whorouly this weekend.

After making finals last season, the Hoppers sit eighth on the ladder after 10 matches, with a record of 3-7.

Despite the lack of results on the scoreboard, coach Darren Bell said there were definite positives on display from the Hoppers.

“We’re battling away alright, even though the scoreboard in the last three games might show we weren’t that competitive, but during the game we felt like we were right in it,” he said.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“Over the last few weeks we’ve been playing a full-ground press, getting extra numbers up around the stoppage,” he said.

“They’re a good stoppage-work team, so we’ll try and slow their stoppage-work down.

“Our best football is played when we can win the ball through stoppage, but then be able to change angles and get out to the fat side of the ground.”

The grand final rematch begins from 2pm on Saturday up at Bright’s Pioneer Park.

FINALS REMATCH: Milawa face old foes Greta in a rematch of the 2023 O&K A grade grand final this weekend.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling this weekend.

“Honestly, a game with that intensity is won or lost anywhere on the court.

“Everyone needs to be switched on and playing their best netball for us to have success on the day.

“Milawa will capitalise on any errors we make, so we need to make sure we minimise that as much as possible.”

Milawa coach Kerrie Gray said her side had moved on from the grand final loss and would be focusing on this weekend’s clash.

“We definitely won’t carry anything from last season’s grand final, the better team won on the day and that’s all there is to it,” she said.

“We have moved forward and are busy working on our next chapter, which is the 2024 season.

“We really enjoy playing each week and have found the competition to be a lot more competitive this season and, although at times the scoreboard might not reflect it, we have found most of our matches to be great contests.”

The match is sure to be a brilliant example of top-level netball, with both teams capable of taking the win on game day.

“We really want to improve our netball and the only way to do that is to play the best teams in the competition and Greta is one

of those teams,” Gray said.

“So we will head out there and play our brand of netball and see how we fare - whatever the outcome, we are looking to learn from the match and continue to improve.

“Having not seen Greta in action yet, it’s hard to say where the game will be won or lost, but I think this week we will be focusing on making the most of our opportunitiesknowing when to take the game on and knowing when to be patient.”

Greta and Milawa go head-tohead at the Milawa Recreation Reserve this Saturday, with the A grade match to begin from 2.15pm.

“(Duane) Haebich got away from us against Goorambat, he’s a bloody good player, against Bright we were competitive for four quarters and we were pretty happy with that, and Greta had a couple of 10 minute patches where they put us away but other than that, we were pretty competitive as well.

The Hoppers have been bolstered in recent weeks by the signing of former Glenrowan player Jordan Hansted, who brings three flags worth of experience from the Tigers into Moyhu’s engine room.

“Jordan Hansted has just come on board over the last two or three weeks, he used to play at Glenrowan years ago when they won a few premierships,” Bell said.

“He’s about 28, played in three flags at Glenrowan, and moved back to Wangaratta a few months ago – he was sick of travelling up to Rand where he was playing (RandWalbundrie-Walla) so he signed up for two years for us.

“It gives us that 28-year-old midfielder we’ve been looking for, he’s a good size.

“He’s been a real bonus the last three weeks, and it’ll be interesting to see how he goes against the Whorouly midfield.”

Bell said his forwards would have to convert on their chances when they came if they wanted to sing the song this weekend.

“Our backline’s been pretty solid, our midfield’s been competitive, and we’ve rotated the forwards, we haven’t had a set forward plan,” he said.

“We’ve rotated different blokes through it, which we will again this weekend and see if something can gel and get a connection to the midfield.

“We don’t put any pressure on them, just ask them to have a crack at it and see how they go.

“It’s going to be up to who can put on scoreboard pressure.”

Whorouly coach Lachy Moore said it was always a cracking match between the Lions and Hoppers.

“Over the last few seasons, although they have played finals, neither side has tasted much success – however, when it comes to playing one another, it’s a bit of a grudge match,” he said.

“Between after the siren goals or biffs and brawls, there is always a sense of feeling.

“It’s very exciting to tell you the truth - both teams will be thinking there’s an opportunity to take a scalp.”

Moyhu hosts Whorouly this Saturday, with the senior clash set for a 2pm start.

‘Pies after response in Derby II MATCH PREVIEWS

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

WANGARATTA is feeling t and refreshed ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated derby at WJ Findlay Oval.

The Magpies will feel they owe Wangaratta Rovers one a er falling to them by 12 points in round one’s derby.

However, a recent run of ve wins on the trot sees the Magpies in ne form ahead of the showdown, while the Hawks will be eager to bounce back from a loss to Yarrawonga last outing.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid said he’s looking forward to the clash.

“It’s exciting to have the chance to bounce back against them because they certainly did a number on us last time,” Reid said.

“It wasn’t a huge margin in round one but they gave us a lesson so it’ll be the ultimate test to see how we stack up against them this time around.

“Both teams are in similar positions in terms of player availability and things like that, so it’s going to be in-

triguing to see how the game pans out.”

Rovers’ mid eld is stacked, with the likes of Sam Murray, Lochie O’Brien, Brodie Filo and Sam Catta-

pan all capable of causing damage.

“I reckon the game will be won around the ball,” Reid said.

“They’ve got Sam Murray,

Brodie Filo, Lochie O’Brien and Sam Cattapan all in there who can turn the game on its head.

“We’re under no illusions of how strong their side is so

WANGARATTA Rovers A grade netballers will no doubt have to be at their best if they’re to be competitive against the Magpies in Sunday’s derby.

The Hawks were set to regain former Vixens player Kim Borger but a late xturing change to the her Western Warriors VNL side will see her miss out.

However, the Hawks are still in positive spirits and assistant coach Stacey Lamb is looking forward to the challenge.

“A week o is always nice and many of our girls took the opportunity to rest if sore or injured, but many of the girls stepped up their training and completed a few bigger, longer runs or hard gym sessions,” Lamb said.

“Maggies have talent all across the court and on the bench.

“This is a huge game but as history will show, it doesn’t matter where teams are on the ladder - on derby day, there have been many upsets.

“While we will miss having the repower of Kim Borger, I am con dent that our girls will give it everything and I hope they play with con dence and trust their talent and skills.”

we’re going to have to play a solid brand of footy compared to last time, where we went away from everything we’d been working on over the pre-season.”

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

While Borger won’t feature for Rovers this weekend, she’ll be in to tackle Corowa-Rutherglen next Saturday.

“We absolutely had Kim Borger into play this one but a late fixture change at VNL (Victorian Netball League) has seen her Western Warriors game moved to be played on Sunday at 2pm in Bendigo,” Lamb said.

“Kim is devastated and upset by this as she had organised to work from Wangaratta on Monday.

“She will still make the journey up to see us all and hang out once her game is done.

“We are excited to have her next week against Corowa.”

Wangaratta su ered their rst loss of the season last round to Wodonga Raiders but Lamb still believes the Magpies are the team to beat.

“Maggies are a slick out t with depth and rotations to combat any situation,” Lamb said “Their defence end is elite

While the Hawks have plenty of talent, Reid feels their defensive pressure is their one wood.

“I rate them as one of, if not the best pressure side in the competition,” he said.

“Executing our plans will be tough because their pressure is so good but we’re looking forward to playing a team that’s going to bring that much heat.

“We probably haven’t played a team as good as them in that department in the last ve weeks so it’ll be a good test.”

The Magpies will be without Alex Federico and Michael Bordignon who have gone overseas for the next three to four weeks, but are set to regain Matt Grossman, Fraser Ellis, Tyler Norton and Charley Holland-Dean.

“We’ve shown over the past few weeks that it doesn’t matter who’s in or who’s out,” Reid said.

“We’ve been smashed with injuries over the past four to ve weeks, but we’ve still managed to play solid footy.

“Our game is based around role and I’m condent that everyone who plays will do their part.”

with Katie Dean having one of her best years.

“Their midcourt is fast and the shooting end is accurate and smart.

“The reality is Maggies are a top of the ladder team and in my eyes the best team in the competition.

“We will continue to play to our strengths and implement the things we have been focusing on at training.”

With the Hawks pencilling in just the one victory this season, Lamb said her side is taking the little wins.

“As always we will focus on ourselves and we are trying to improve each training session and each week,” she said.

“From our point of view we have a lot to celebrate.

“We are having wins and success in other grades as well as debut many juniors through the senior grades.

“Molly Murray has been working hard at training and always asks questions to seek improvements.

“She has been best on court for the last three games so it is great that hard work is paying o .”

IN FORM: Rovers defender Molly Murray will play a pivotal role on Wangaratta’s goaler on Sunday. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

KEY FIGURE: Pat Naish shapes as a key player in Wangaratta’s winning hopes against Wangaratta Rovers on Sunday.

Bumper weekend of baseball for Rangers

WANGARATTA Rangers

Black played Porepunkah Panthers in all ve grades of North East Baseball at Targoora Park on Sunday, while Rangers Grey travelled to Springdale Heights, Lavington to play Albury Bears Green in the other A Grade game with the Wang/Benalla United U12’s & U15’s juniors having the BYE.

In their A Grade game, Ross Johnson made a welcome return to Baseball after having a few weeks o and started on the mound for Rangers Black.

Johnson had only four batters face him in Panthers rst turn at bat before they lost their third out and no runs scored.

Rangers Black were one out, one run in and bases loaded when Nathan Pool hit a big three base hit to centre eld to bring in another three runs and was brought

home himself by their next batter to have a ve-run lead at the top of the second inning. Safe hits were hard to come by for both teams with Panthers having only ve for the game and although Rangers won the game in the nish, they only had three safe hits. The other two going to Chris Ponting.

Rangers Black won nine runs to Panthers four.

In the B game, Panthers scored four runs in their rst turn at bat, then had Rangers Orange three out without scoring a run.

Panthers added one run in the second dig while Rangers started to get runners on base and by the top of the fourth, they had caught up to be ve runs apiece.

Rangers added another ve runs in their fourth turn at bat, while Panthers could only bring in one more run

in their next two innings. Rangers Orange won ten to Panthers six.

Panthers looks good from the start in the C Grade when they brought in seven runs to Rangers three in the rst innings.

Panthers had 16 safe hits for the game all to the outeld with Eric Quinton and Luca Balthelmens both hitting a home run to le eld and Peter Alexander and Lochie Rosser each had three safe hits, while for Rangers the only two safe hits for their game came from the mother/son duo of the side in Candice and Taylor Jones who had one safe hit each.

Panthers won 14 runs to Rangers seven a er playing only two innings.

The under 15’s game saw the more experienced Rangers come from behind a er the Panthers scored ve

runs in their rst turn at bat to Ranger’s nil.

Makayla Pool, Lilie Brockwell and Darcy Sanders were Rangers best with the bat wile Ayla McCullum, Ollie Brown and Steph Alexander were the only Panthers to have a safe hit.

Rangers won 11 runs to Panthers ve.

The under 12’s game saw good batting and running of the bases by both sides.

The seventh batter rune came into play in each of the sides fours turns at bat.

Lily Britton had four safe hits for Rangers and Cohen Guest-Smith hit a home run for Panthers, running around the diamond. Rangers won twenty-two runs to Panthers 19 in a very good fast game of baseball.

In the other A Grade game played at Springdale Heights, Rangers Grey could not get their usual game going

against the Bears Green team. Neither side could bring in a run in their rst innings, Bears scored three runs in their second dig, all from elding errors by Rangers, then added another three in the next to have six runs on the books before Rangers got their two runs in the fourth inning.

Mel Sato would be the only Rangers player to be happy with her elding, taking two-line drive catches at rst base and stopped a lot of hits from going to the outeld. Bears won 13 runs to Rangers two.

North East Baseball Round 9 games this Sunday will see:

A Grade Wodonga Warriors vs Rangers Grey at Gayview Park, Wodonga Bears Gold vs Porepunkah Panthers at Springdale Heights, Lavington

Rangers Black vs Bears Green at Targoora Park, Wangaratta

B Grade

Warriors vs Benalla at Gayview Park, Wodonga Bears vs Panthers at Springdale Heights

Rangers have the BYE C Grade Warriors vs Rangers at Gayview Park, Wodonga Bears vs Panthers at Springdale Heights, Lavington

U15’s

Warriors vs United at Gayview Park, Wodonga Bears vs Panthers at Springdale Heights, Lavington

Rangers have the BYE U12’s Warriors vs United at Gayview Park, Wodonga Bears vsPanthers at Springdale Heights, Lavington

Rangers have the BYE

Devils face tough trip to Cobram

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City makes the dreaded road trip to Cobram to take on the Roar on Sunday.

Fresh o a 3-3 draw to the highly touted Boomers, the Devils will take con dence into the critical clash against Cobram who sit just three points ahead on the table in eighth place.

With the top eight qualifying for finals, Wangaratta are keen to get on a role in the back half of the season.

“Cobram will be a tough game, it

always is over there,” Wangaratta City coach Ra Molinaro said.

“It’s a very important game for us if we want to get into the top eight and as it currently stands they’ve got the last spot.

“They have a strong forward line and similarly to us have some quality young players.

“We’re de nitely similar teams in that sense so it’ll be an interesting game.”

Wangaratta City will certainly fancy themselves though having made light work of Cobram back on May 26, winning 5-2.

“We played well against them last time but playing them there is dicult,” Molinaro said.

“We’re going to have to rely on our willingness to play a full 90 minutes and ght the game out until the nal whistle.

“Last time we did that and won 5-2 which was a great day for our club, considering we’ve had a tough season, so hopefully we can give our supporters that joy again.”

The Devils will be without Tom Humphries and Mason Taylor, while Alex Pitt is touch and go as to whether he’ll feature.

Tough run for Lady Devils

By NATHAN DE VRIES

TAKING on three of the top four sides in one week is a tall order for any side, but that’s exactly the situation the Lady Devils nd themselves in.

A er a 3-7 loss to third-ranked side Boomer last Sunday, the Lady Devils will cap o their mad week with a Thursday night game against the touted Albury Hotspurs and a Sunday clash against top four Cobram Roar away.

Coach Tarry Masters said the Cobram game held massive importance for the Lady Devils’ nals run at the end of the season.

“If we want to be in the mix in thenals, that’s a game we have to win,” he said.

“We have to get something out of the game, whether it’s a win or a draw.

“You’ve got Hotspurs, then you’ve got a bunch of teams - Boomers are OK, Melrose are OK, Cobram are OK, we’re OK.

“We’ve all in that group, so any one

of us could nish up second.

“We’ve got a bit of work to do, and like I said to the girls, we’re not going to win the league this year so we’ll try and prepare the side for nals.

“That gives us a big preseason into the nals and get back to how we went against some of the weaker sides, improve our execution and structures and all of that sort of stu .”

Last time the Lady Devils faced Cobram, the Roar managed to save face with two late goals to go down 3-2.

While the side will be slightly diminished for Cobram encounter, Masters trusted the depth of the squad to shine bright.

“We’ve got a few niggles and commitments, so we won’t have our full team in all games because people have things on and we’ve got school holidays coming up too,” he said.

“That’s why you have a big squad.”

Results from yesterday night’s match with Hotspurs and Sunday’s Cobram game will be in Wednesday’s Chronicle.

TOUGH TRIP: Raul Pahina and Wangaratta City make the tough trip to Cobram on Sunday. PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

Dees’ Big Freeze

Club event this Saturday to raise money, awareness for FightMND

MILAWA and Greta Football Netball Clubs are teaming up to ght The Beast this weekend, with the Demons hosting a FightMND event this weekend.

Kim Michelini and the Demons wanted to raise funds and awareness of motor neurone disease after Michelini’s mother, Vicki Bourke, was diagnosed with the disease four months ago.

Michelini said while the annual Big Freeze event at the MCG was doing wonders to raise awareness of the disease, it hits di erently when it’s someone you know who is impacted.

“It hits closer to home when you’ve been involved in the club for over 40 years, my mother has never missed a game basically, she’s always at the end of the court,” she said.

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

“Unfortunately, she’s at the stage now where she’s not really able to attend many games due to the disease.

“The club has been personally a ected by it, my mother being diagnosed with MND about four months ago, so we decided to get on board mainly to raise not only funding but not only awareness around the disease

“We decided to make it focused on awareness, we’ll have some MND merchandise and brochures to hand out.

“It was around doing some fundraising, 100 per cent of which will go straight to Fight MND.”

The club will be selling FightMND merchandise and handing out brochures about the disease, with a ra e, stalls, and a barbecue also helping to raise funds and awareness.

Michelini and the Demons reached out to Greta asking if they’d support the event, with the answer being an emphatic yes.

“Greta have been really supportive to jump on board as well,” she said.

“We chose Greta because my nephew plays for Greta, so there’re connections there, and my brother-in-law – Mum’s son-in-law - is a life member and past player of Greta, so we’ve got a lot of close friend connections and family there as well.

“It’s something we’d like to do every year.”

While MND is a fatal diagnosis and there is no known cure for the disease, every little bit helps to ght The Beast.

“There’s a lot of research still do be done,” Michelini said.

“We’re no closer to a cure, and they’re still not really sure why the disease doesn’t discriminate, in the sense that it’s something that they’re not really sure why people get it.

“It’s a deadly disease with no cure, it’s such a debilitating disease, it’s a very sad disease.

“Neale Daniher has made a huge impact with raising that awareness, so many people now are jumping on board - if you can get 90,000, 95,000 people wearing an MND beanie, it means there’s a lot more awareness out there than there was 10 years ago.”

Knights set for last home game

THE Wangaratta Knights Rugby Club will be hosting their last home game of the season before nals, this Sunday, June 23.

The Knights will be going head to head with The Wolfpack for game nine, this round holds particular signi cance, being named as The Hayden Mcintosh Memorial Round.

Hayden Mcintosh had heavy involvement with rugby league in the Goulburn Murray, playing for the Wangaratta Knights during their inaugural season in 2017, he also represented The Knights in Masters tournaments, and had a vital part in the birth of The Wolfpack in 2019.

Sadly Hayden passed away in July of 2023, and honoring his memory is of huge importance to both clubs.

Friends and family are encouraged to attend, with the senior men’s game kicking o at 3:15pm and presentation of the shield to follow.

Wangaratta Knights Ladies League Tag sits at fourth on the ladder, with the seniors at sixth.

Both teams are looking to climb positions this weekend, with nals looming on the horizon.

Seniors captain Scott Miller said a win on Saturday is a must.

Massive weekend for table tennis stars

OVER the King’s Birthday weekend, Wangaratta Table Tennis players travelled to Traralgon, Gippsland for the 72nd Annual Country Championships.

A number of players from Wangaratta were keen to participate in what is traditionally a highly competitive tournament and an enjoyable social event.

The tournament consisted of rounds one and two played on Saturday, rounds three and four and an individual tournament played on Sunday, and round ve played on Monday.

Results were then calculated and shields presented to the winners at the end of Monday’s play.

A total of 12 divisions each containing six teams from across the state were entered.

Each team was made up of three or four players.

Wangaratta entered two teams.

An unwavering team spirit was

abundantly evident throughout and the extra practice sessions in Wangaratta seemed to pay o .

The B1 division team of Andrew Lindner, Tom Brown and Mark Comensoli played wonderfully all weekend and managed

to come out winners of their division.

There were no easy matches and many talented players so it was a test of endurance, tenacity and positivity that carried them through to the ‘ nish line’ on

Monday, in top position a er winning all ve rounds.

Match results by round: 10/1 (Albury), 6/5 (Sunbury), 6/5 (Wonthaggi), 8/3 (Leongatha), 7/4 (Melton).

The C2 division team of Austin Lindner, Kim Brown, Robert Voss and Marcus Angehrn also played admirably over the weekend and enjoyed the challenge, persistently testing their skills against a variety of ni y and equally determined opponents.

They started day one winning the rst round and lost narrowly by ve matches to six in the second round that a ernoon.

Match results by round: 7/4 (Sunbury), 5/6 (Ballarat), 4/7 (Bairnsdale), 2/9 (Leongatha), 3/8 (Yarrawonga).

In addition to the teams event, Andrew Lindner entered various events in the individual category on Sunday evening and was successful in winning the B Singles.

“A win this weekend will help us gain momentum and motivate Knights to reach for the goal of nals,” Miller said. Round nine will be held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve, gates open @ 9am. Juniors program from 12pm, canteen and bar will be open.

INDIVIDUAL WINNER: Presentation of Individual Tournament B Singles medal by TTV CEO, Andrew Weiss, Andrew Lindner (centre) and runner up Daniel Gibb.

B1 Team: (L-R) Mark Comensoli, Andrew Lindner and Tom Brown were winners of the Riversdale Shield.

LOCAL TEAM: (L-R) Wangaratta’s Country Championships team of Kim Brown, Tom Brown, Mark Comensoli, Austin Lindner, Robert Voss, Andrew Lindner, Marcus Angehrn.

BIG TACKLE: Ratul Sauniyaka (le ) and Mark Taprell tackle a Wolfpack player in round two. PHOTO: Adelaide Fitzpatrick

Friday, June 21

Carlton vs. Geelong Cats (MCG) (N)

Saturday, June 22

Port

Sunday, June 23

Essendon

(AO)

(GS) (T)

(MCG) (N)

(OS) (T)

Marnie

THE BEAST

le ) Kim Michelini, Ian Bourke, Vicki Bourke

will be raising funds

a er Vicki’s recent diagnosis.

Home pride on line

WANGARATTA Rovers have a golden chance to further enhance their credentials when they meet Wangaratta at WJ Findlay Oval on Sunday.

Fresh o a 24-point loss to Yarrawonga before last weekend’s bye, the Hawks have the perfect opportunity to bounce back and show the competition what they’re capable of against the surging Magpies.

The Hawks will be without in-form ruckman Will Christie though, who is battling a foot injury which could potentially see him out for the foreseeable future.

Anyone’s game in derby at WJ Findlay Oval

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

“It’s a really important game for us and will give us another opportunity to see where we’re at,” Rovers football operations manager Barry Sullivan said.

“Having Will Christie out is obviously a massive blow but I think they’ll be missing a few too, so it’ll be an interesting battle.

“It’s looking like it’ll be a great day weather-wise so hopefully there’s plenty of people down there supporting.”

Magpies forward Callum Moore has booted 38 majors from his past six games, with key Rovers backman Jace McQuade likely to be given the role after holding Yarrawonga spearhead Leigh Williams goalless.

While Sullivan admitted the midfield battle will be one to watch, he said Moore will need to be tamed in front of goal.

“Both teams have strong midfield so it will be a good battle in there but the other thing we have to watch is Callum Moore,” Sullivan said.

“Moore’s in fantastic form and keeping him on a leash will be a big challenge for us, but apart from that both sides are strong in defence and strong in the middle.

“We’ve got a strong defence with Tom Boyd, Jace McQuade, Xavier Allison, Kieran Parnell and Charles Ledger who we feel can

do a team job on him (Moore).” Rovers midfielder Dylan Stone will also feature in his second senior game of the year after getting through his first senior match back against the Pigeons last outing.

“Dylan Stone will play his second game back which is exciting,” Sullivan said.

“He’s worked really diligently to get to where he has and he came back in last weekend and showed no loss of touch or form.

“He’s a massive in for us and hopefully he has a good game on Sunday.”

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling