Wangaratta Chronicle 220223 by Provincial Press Group

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GUIDE

READY TO RIDE THE RoadSafe North East Bike Education program is off to a great start this year with students at Yarrunga Primary School including (from left) Lily Britton, Indie Hickson (with RoadSafe North East bike educator Glenn Clarke), Jack Simpson and Benji Gardner, among those enjoying the opportunity to learn how to ride safely, be confident and have fun. Story page 2. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Country Week victory Sport

Housing boom bust ONE profession that accelerated during the doom and gloom stages of the pandemic was the building industry, with the HomeBuilder and renovation grants in the 2020-21 financial year creating massive demand. But the purple patch is tapering off with houses approved for construction down 21.8 per cent nationally last calendar year. The Housing Industry Association (HIA) reported

Wangaratta g building g approvals pp p plummet byy 63 homes in a yyearr BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

the decline can also be attributed to the rising cost of construction, a change in consumer demand for more living space, and rising interest rates, which it warns the Reserve Bank, will impact employment to

a not yet realised extent. In Wangaratta, building approvals jumped from 147 in 2019-20 to 205 in the 2020-21 year, but last financial year they returned to 142 approvals as the HomeBuilders grant expired. Under the scheme, eligible homeowners could apply for grants of $25k for renovations and new constructions valued between $150k and $750k.

for 142 houses.” The decline continues nation-wide with the Australian Bureau of Statistics releasing monthly building approvals data recently for December. “This data included a 2.4 per cent decline in house approvals in December 2022, to 8989, the second weakest monthly performance in the last twoand-a-half years,” HIA chief

Stephen Swart, Wangaratta council director sustainability and culture, said local building approvals have fluctuated over the past three financial years. “The number of houses approved in the Rural City of Wangaratta in the 2021-22 financial year was more reflective of the average levels of approvals in the preceding decade, with building approvals issued

economist Tim Reardon said. “Much of the decline between 2021 and 2022 was the expected consequence of the end of the HomeBuilder grant in 2021. “The market was also cooling as the cost of construction rose, and the change in consumer preferences due to the pandemic desire for space, eroded.” ■ Continued page 2

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Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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Dinner proves a winner A DINNER organised for local parents of children with Type 1 diabetes attracted 12 people last week. The event at the Pinsent Hotel was the first for Wangaratta planned through The Type 1 Foundation, and organisers were pleased with the initial turn-out. It’s hoped another gathering will be held soon. To keep an eye out for further information, follow The Type 1 Foundation on Facebook and Instagram.

WE WANT YOUR NEWS Call the Wangaratta Chronicle on (03) 57230113 or email us at edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

STAYING SAFE: RoadSafe North East bike educator Glenn Clarke (centre) with Yarrunga Primary School students (from left) Lily Britton, Indie Hickson, Jack Simpson and Benji Gardner, says the program is designed to develop children’s bicycle handling and safety skills as well as teach them road rules. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Bike education off and pedalling in 2023

TEMPERATURES: Wednesday Max 32 Min 14 Mostly sunny Thursday

Max 31

Min 13

Mostly sunny

Friday Saturday

Max 33 Sunny

Min 13

Max 33

Min 15

Mostly sunny

Sunday

Max 31 Min 15 Mostly sunny

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

0.0 mm

Lake Buffalo

0.2 mm

1.2 mm

Cheshunt

0.0 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Tuesday

AS part of its plan to build a healthy and happy school community, Yarrunga Primary School is participating in RoadSafe North East’s Bike Education program this week. The program aims to develop bike skills and promote to the school community that riding to school is an easy, fun and rewarding activity. RoadSafe North East (RSNE), funded by Vic Roads, has been delivering the bicycle education course to primary school students (grades three to six) across the region for almost two decades.

RSNE bike educator and former Olympic/Commonwealth Games cyclist, Glenn Clarke, applauded the school’s efforts in developing a strong, active travel culture by participating in the bike education program. “A school community where students are empowered to ride to and from school improving their levels of physical activity, delivers so many benefits - health, social, environmental and economic,” he said. “When the bicycle education trailer visits a school, the bike skills challenge course is

set up on day one and the children participate in an initial 40 to 50 minute guided workshop. “The course remains at the school for the entire week and children are encouraged to ride their bicycles to and from school and to continue with supervised practice sessions with a teacher throughout the week.” The bike education course is designed to test, practice and develop primary aged children’s bicycle handling and safety skills, while also building their confidence and competence. Children complete a field

course that helps to develop their agility, balance, coordination, peripheral vision and decision making while riding a bicycle. It includes education about road safety and knowing and obeying road rules, but most of all it’s about having fun in a learning environment. Kids can bring their bicycles and helmets, plus the RoadSafe trailer has six bikes and helmets children can use if they don’t have a bicycle on the day. So far students at Yarrunga have given the program a big thumbs up.

NEWS TIPS Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Wangaratta building approvals plummet by 63 homes in a year

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Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2.30pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2.30pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2.30pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission. The Chronicle is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Chronicle itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

Member

STRAIGHT THROUGH: A red Kia Sportage crashed through the front of Do My Hair on Tuesday afternoon. PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm

Man stable after CBD crash By RYAN MALCOLM A VEHICLE which crashed through the front façade of an Ovens Street business on Tuesday afternoon resulted in traffic backed up throughout the CBD, as a major emergency service presence assessed the scene.

Fire rescue, police and ambulance crews were called to the front of Do My Hair salon shortly after 3pm, after a red Kia Sportage travelled over the curb and through the glass paneling at the front of the shop. An ambulance spokesperson said a man was subsequently transported to North-

east Health Wangaratta in a stable condition. Nearby stores continued to trade in the wake of the crash, as pedestrians milled about the scene while police and fire crews established a perimeter around the site. The vehicle was subsequently towed from the scene.

Rising interest rates have also had an impact on the building industry but it’s uncertain as to what extent. “The adverse impact of the fastest increase in the cash rate in a generation will not be fully observed in building approvals data until later this year and will not hit building activity on the ground until late 2023,” Mr Reardon said. “The significant pipeline of work that Australian builders are still completing, combined with ongoing materials and labour constraints, is creating significant lags between the RBA’s hiking cycle and on-the-ground activity. “This lag from the first rate rise until it impacts employment is dangerously long in this cycle. “The RBA needs to be very cautious in raising rates as the impact of their actions won’t be observed in official data for nearly 18 months, in this cycle.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 3

Driver reached 158kph, fined $2000

A LOCAL driver who elected to ‘diagnose’ his car by reaching speeds of more than 150kph along the Great Alpine Road during a public holiday weekend has been slammed with a $2000 fine and banned from driving for a year. The 39-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, pleading guilty to speeding in a manner dangerous after reaching 158kph while travelling north-west

in a 100kph zone near Everton on June 12 last year. According to police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon, police had been stationary in the opposite lane as they observed the accused travelling at a fast rate of speed believed to be well in excess of 140kph, confirmed by the use of a speed gun. She said police had quickly moved to intercept the vehicle,

which was said to have presented with two bald rear tyres. When interviewed, the accused told police he had been “diagnosing” his car. It was subsequently impounded for 30 days. Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said the driving, which took place around 3pm on the Sunday of the Queen’s Birthday weekend, had taken place following the recent

passing of a family member and the breakdown of an intimate relationship. He said his client had “decided to put his foot down,” and had not downplayed his actions to police. “(He) was just seeing what his car could do,” he said. Magistrate Peter Dunn said he didn’t understand the accused’s desire to speed in a vehicle he understood to be old and quite rare.

“I just don’t get it really - you’ve got a nice car, probably a reasonably rare car which is increasing in value every day,” he said. “There’s a perfectly good race track 40 kilometres south of here. “There’s certainly not going to be any wildlife or interesections.” He did not convict the accused, electing to cancel the man’s licence for 12 months and fine him more than $2100.

Volunteer drivers needed to help the Wangaratta community

IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT: Volunteer driver David Hovington helps vulnerable people in Wangaratta and Wodonga reach their destinations.

VOLUNTEER drivers play a vital role in assisting the community’s vulnerable people with their transport needs. Not-for-profit organisation Community Accessability is seeking volunteer drivers in Wangaratta and surrounds who are willing to get involved to help support the evolving transport needs of our community. Community Accessability’s transport service is a volunteersupported community service. They are committed to providing transport support to older people, people living with disabilities, and those who have difficulties accessing other forms of transport. “Volunteers play a vital role at Community Accessability, and we are always in need of caring, compassionate volunteers to help carry out our mission,” Jan Hay, volunteer coordinator for Community Accessability Inc, said. “Community Accessability has a pool of accessible vehicles to suit every driver’s preference and our client and participants’ mobility needs. “We aim to offer a muchneeded service within our community, assisting local residents in getting to appointments and commitments both within and outside of the area, or for rural residents of surrounding communities to come into town for appointments and programs.” Volunteering for Community Accessability is easy and flexible. Anyone with a driver’s licence can volunteer; opportunities are open to females, males, youths,

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and adults. “Volunteer time is very flexible and relaxed,” Ms Hay said. “This service depends on volunteers who want to be a part of a very social volunteering opportunity and those who enjoy driving. “All Community Accessability volunteers receive induction, training, uniform, and ongoing support. “We are looking for volunteers who can offer any amount of time; we have opportunities that range from as often as daily to as little as monthly. Elaine Cartwright, a Community Accessability volunteer driver, said she gained great pleasure in her role. “I am always filled with gratitude because I get to help people and give back to my community,” she said. “I also like that it’s easy to volunteer, and we have a volunteer coordinator to go to for anything we need.” Ms Hay said the Community Accessibility transport services would not be possible without the incredible dedication of its volunteers. “We would not have the wonderful opportunities and programs for the greater community if it were not for them,” she said. “Our volunteers are what makes it all work.” For more information on volunteering opportunities, contact Community Accessability on 1300 704 530 or email volunteering@communityaccessability.org.au.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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MP wants parliament to visit the regions TIM McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) has criticised the government for voting down a motion to bring both levels of parliament to regional Victoria. He said holding regular sittings across Victoria gives regional communities the opportunity to see parliament in action, and highlight issues affecting their community. “It’s a decision that surprised no one, our electorate deserves to have their voices heard yet there hasn’t been a regional sitting for both the upper and lower house since 2014,” Mr McCurdy said. “It would also give every member of parliament the chance to witness our state’s crumbling roads firsthand, the stress of growing household bills and the impact of the health crisis that grips our regional communities. “But it seems Daniel Andrews cannot look regional Victorians in the eye after he’s starved our community of vital services and investment.”

NICE VIEW: Rural City of Wangaratta director - infrastructure services, Andrew Close, and mayor, Rozi Parisotto, at the spot where a deck will shoot out over the Ovens River bank. PHOTO: Simon Groves

Platform taking shape, with riverside views VISIT THE REGIONS: Tim McCurdy is not happy with the vote against a motion to bring the lower and upper house of parliament to the regions. The Legislative Council has previously held sittings in Ballarat, Benalla, Colac, Lakes Entrance, Bendigo, as well as a one in the Ovens Valley in Bright. “Parliament must come back to regional Victoria, our communities deserve to have their concerns heard,” he said.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013 By STEVEN BURKE RIVERSIDE views will be available to the Wangaratta public by August, with work on the Ovens Riverside Project still on track. The base for a deck shooting out over the river bank has been installed at the back of the riverside square in Faithfull Street, while work on laying concrete in the square and along the promenade running behind shops on Faithfull Street is due to

start soon. Council’s director infrastructure services, Andrew Close, said the project was on track for completion by July 31. He said foundations had been driven eight metres into the river bank to support the deck and promenade, with an engine block and other car parts discovered embedded in the river bank during the work. Workers were yesterday preparing the deck for a balustrade rail to run along

its edge. The deck and promenade will remain relatively open, however, to enhance views of the river and Apex Park. Mayor, Rozi Parisotto, said the public was excited about seeing the project come to fruition. “Everyone wants to know

when it’s going to happen and when they’ll be able to use the square,” she said. “I’ve had a couple of food businesses tell me they’re interested in coming down here too, which is one of the aims of this work. Last night council was due to award contracts for concrete works and the construction of the promenade, and Mr Close said those contracts would signal a lot of activity on the site, and that the public would soon see the project take shape.

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 5

Investing in rural health

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN UNIVERSITY Of Melbourne professors visited Wangaratta on Tuesday afternoon to meet with partners and placement students at Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) last week and find ways to continually improve rural health placements and boost the local workforce. The professors, along with other allied health and nursing professionals from the Melbourne School of Health Sciences discussed health workforce shortages and why local recruitment is a key to a sustainable and vibrant workforce. Director of nursing at the University of Melbourne, Professor Marie Gerdtz said she was impressed with the interest of the community in the forum and the willingness to boost the rural health workforce. “Most of those people have an interest in developing clinical placements for the future workforce across all of the health disciplines we provide,” she said. “It was really impressive the number of people that had come, they wanted to talk about the ways in which we could expand our clinical placements and bring together students from the different disciplines to start learning together while on placement.”

TEAMING UP: University of Melbourne and Northeast Health Wangaratta representatives held an insightful forum last week in ways of improving and maintaining the local rural health workforce. Pictured from left are, Professor Bruce Thompson, Dr De Witt Oosthuizen, Dominic Sandilands, Professor Marie Gerdtz, Libby Fifis, Kim Bennetts, Rebecca-Kate Oates and Professor Lisa Bourke. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling This event is delivered by the University of Melbourne school of Health Sciences and Going Rural Health - a commonwealth funded initiative by the University of Melbourne that supports students on rural placement to benefit the rural and regional health workforce. Professor Gerdtz said the university has seen an increase in students going into rural health placements

since the pandemic, which can provide benefits for both students and the workforce. “One of the things in terms of the education of health workers is most of them are all generalist, so if they were to go up to rural areas like Wangaratta, they get exposed to patients who have a whole range of conditions and they’re not necessarily able to easily access services,” she said. “So the workforce has to

be much more general in its approach and that in itself means they get a really good quality of experience because the population in need is quite high. “One of our strategic objectives is to improve access and one of the ways to do that is to graduate a workforce that understands what living and working in rural Victoria means and encouraging some of those who are willing to consider a move up there.”

Health service partners, CEOs and hospital executives from across the region attended on the night along with those who will take the reins in health leadership. Professor Gerdtz said the university has a long standing relationship with Wangaratta of 20 years and will continue to work collaboratively with the rural learning centre set up at NHW. “We’ve had so many positive student experiences

from the area, in nursing we have a collaboration to educate critical care nurses in Wangaratta and in the region over the last five years we’ve graduated over 100 critical care nurses,” she said. “You do see students become a lot more independent earlier and I think that autonomy is a part of the appealing element of the role for our students... they become more professionally compotent.”

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Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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The Australian Quiz

THE impacts of COVID continue to be felt throughout the community, despite restrictions centred around the virus having been almost totally removed from most walks of life. Many community organisations are still struggling to attract back vital volunteers who, particularly in regional areas, had previously personified the community spirit so often affiliated with small country towns. The issue isn‘t strictly limited to Wangaratta, but the local region certainly has not been spared the mass exodus of volunteers in recent times. One such community organisation desperately in need of selfless community involvement is Community Accessability, which provides drivers for older people, people living with disability and those who have difficulties with other forms of transport. The service plays a vital role in allowing a significant number of local residents to maintain their independence within the community, becoming a constant within the lives of so many. And they need your help. Anyone with a driving licence can volunteer, and you can offer as little or as much time as you want. You‘ll get all the training, and ongoing support that you want and there is even a uniform thrown in. A few hours a week when it suits you could make a massive difference to an individual who doesn‘t have the means to get around so well. And the chances are, you could develop some great friendships along the way, one of the most rewarding benefits for anyone who volunteers. For more information contact Community Accessability on 1300 704 530 or email volunteering@communityaccessability.org.au.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 3 Ship’s lowest deck 6 Annex 8 Compass point 9 Part of speech 10 Plumb 12 Beverage 14 Narrow vestment 17 Broke out 19 Sunshades 20 Speed an engine 21 Lairs 22 Withdrew from federation 24 Little rounded lumps 27 Eating place 29 Hawaiian garland 30 Sisterhood 32 Plant’s climbing organ 34 Inward feeling 35 Donkey 36 Golf clubs 37 Comfort 38 Chemical compound 39 Sailor 40 Decree DOWN 1 Brittle

2 Wild enthusiasm 3 Occupy thoughts persistently 4 Superintend 5 Country 6 Grew less 7 Exploit 11 Slippery catches 13 Young hares 15 Frog larvae 16 Flagging 18 Make ready 23 Longed for 25 Thicker 26 Alone 27 Pamper 28 Having an end 31 Feel earnest desire 32 Diploma SOLUTION C F O R L O P A D D V E R B E R H U M B R S H E E R A L E I E R U P T E D S T O L E R E V P A R A S O L S D E N S S E C E D E D P G D E P R N O D U L E S C A F E L E I S O R O R I T Y S E N S E T E N D R I L I R O N S I A A S S E A S E E S T E R C E D I C T E N T A R

Which Australian cyclist has the nickname, Tasmanian Devil Fish? (a) Caleb Ewan (b) Richie Porte (c) Rohan Dennis (d) Michael Matthews

Who starred as Melissa Caddick in the 2022 TV series, Underbelly: Vanishing Act? (a) Georgie Gardner (b) Sophie Bloom (c) Kate Atkinson (d) Maya Stange

Which country is bordered by Libya to the north and the Central African Republic to the south?

(a) Ethiopia (b) Niger

Which of the following words is an adverb? (a) Imagine (b) River (c) Smoothly (d) And

What was the first team to score over 150 points in a single match in the 2022 AFL season? (a) Hawthorn Hawks (b) Collingwood Magpies (c) Sydney Swans (d) Brisbane Lions Absolute zero is defined as what degrees Celsius on the Celsius scale? (a) 0 (c) 32 (b) -273.15 (d) -111.65

The Greek god, Pan, has the hindquarters of what type of animal? (a) Horse (b) Goat (c) Lion (d) Bull Dave Bayley is best known for his work in which band? (a) Jonas Brothers (b) 5 Seconds of Summer (c) Glass Animals (d) One Direction

What is the largest island of the Society Islands in French Polynesia? (a) Tahiti (c) Rarotonga (b) Bora Bora (d) Isle of Pines

1 (b) Richie Porte 2 (c) Kate Atkinson 3 (d) Chad 4 (c) Smoothly 5 (a) 1948 6 (d) Brisbane Lions 7 (b) -273.15 8 (a) Tahiti 9 (b) Goat 10 (c) Glass Animals

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Council needs to keep promise to Senior Citizens

Would you be happy with council cutting some services and projects if it meant rates didn’t increase as much?

THANK you, George, for your lovely fairy story about the Elderly Citizens’ Club building in our “great local city”. I would like to add that the former club building was built with money raised by the senior citizens themselves. There were no grants in those days. The removal of the club rooms was officiated over by the Rural City of Wangaratta, led by then Mayor Irene Grant. It was she, and the other councillors, who promised to find a new permanent home. Now that she is back on the council, perhaps Ms Grant could make good on that promise. Ian Flanigan, Myrrhee

Gas companies to blame for high gas price A BIG shout out to Alan and Mark Humphrey who wrote concerned about Federal Government assistance with the removal of gas appliances. Gas is a fossil fuel. The burning of fossil fuels is the biggest contributor to greenhouse gases warming the planet and causing climate change. Gas was once a cheaper fuel alternative to electricity and I have installed gas appliances in my home in the past. A few years ago, I had solar panels installed on my roof and then had a split system installed which heats and cools my main living areas in my house. The split system replaced an old gas heater and a wood heater. The panels now also power my electric car. My most recent electricity bill shows that I am in credit. The rising price of gas can be attributed to two things. The gas producers exporting gas overseas and not reserving gas for domestic customers. WA is the only State in Australia to reserve gas for domestic consumers. Last year the Federal Government placed a cap on rising energy prices. The gas producers have not been happy about this. So coming back to your letter, government ‘interference’ has resulted in a cap on prices. The production of gas is determined by

FALSE ALARM: Officeworks employees were evacuated from the store around midday on Monday, following a faulty fire alarm which saw four fire trucks respond to the scene. Firefighters carried out extensive checks on the building before re-opening the store. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling the gas producers not the government. On the subject of supply, energy supply through renewable sources is increasing. The following information is from https://www.energy.gov.au/data/renewables and is based on 2021 data when there was no Federal Government policy in relation to Climate Change and Energy. “In 2021, 29 per cent of Australia’s total electricity generation was from renewable energy sources, including solar (12%), wind (10%) and hydro (6%). The share of renewables in total electricity generation in 2021 was the highest on record, with the previous peak being 26 per cent in the mid-1960s. Solar and wind have been the primary drivers in more than doubling renewable generation expansion over the last decade. Small-scale solar generation grew 29 per cent in 2021, and by an average of 28 per cent per year over the last 10 years. Wind generation grew 19 per cent in 2021 and by an average of 15 per cent per year over the last decade. Hydro power output has fluctuated around a fairly consistent level according

to rainfall and market conditions, losing predominance as generation sources diversified. Recently, large-scale solar generation has begun rapid expansion. Large-scale solar generation has grown from negligible levels before 2016 to 4 per cent of all Australian electricity generation in 2021, representing a five-year growth rate of 1747 per cent”. Jane Baker, Wangaratta

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 7

Valuable tips for kids from ‘Barefoot’

By SIMONE KERWIN

FAMILIES across Australia are snapping up copies of Scott Pape’s ‘Barefoot Kids’ as they endeavour to help the youngsters in their lives gain an understanding of money matters. ‘Barefoot Kids’ was the highestselling new release title published in Australia last year, selling more than 200,000 copies in eight weeks following its release in early November. Written in a unique visual format, ‘Barefoot Kids’ features 45 inspiring money stories from Australian children, as well as fun projects, rewards and real-life stickers designed to engage primary schoolers. Published by HarperCollins Australia, the book draws on Scott Pape’s financial experience, and follows his number one bestseller, ‘The Barefoot Investor’, as well as ‘The Barefoot Investor for Families’. In recent years, Scott has also launched The Money Movement, a campaign aimed at getting financial education into all Australian schools, and was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2020 for ‘service to the community and to financial education’. He handed back his financial services licence in 2020 and became a not-for-profit financial counsellor, volunteering his time to work with the most vulnerable people in the community.

In ‘Barefoot Kids’, Scott guides kids on an ‘epic money adventure’ through six steps - ‘earn some money’, ‘stash your cash’, ‘be a barefoot boss’, ‘get what you want’, ‘make someone smile’, and ‘grow your money’. Each section features reallife stories from kids about how they make, handle, grow and share their money. Every parent wants their child to be capable and confident in control of their finances, and this is just the guide to help them learn that vital information - a great investment in their future. “Kids from right across Australia are reading it cover-to-cover in one sitting, but even more importantly, they’re using it to learn life changing lessons,” Scott said.

The Wangaratta Chronicle has three copies of ‘Barefoot Kids: Your Epic Money Adventure’ to give away. If you would like to be among the winners, email skerwin@nemedia. com.au and tell us why you would love to own a copy. * ‘Barefoot Kids: Your Epic Money Adventure’ (HarperCollins Australia), RRP $32.99

GUIDE TO FINANCIAL LIFE: Scott Pape’s ‘Barefoot Kids: Your Epic Money Adventure’ is a fantastic investment in a child’s future, and we have three copies to give away to local families.

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Odour charges to front court next month ODOUR-related charges against a Wangaratta sausage skin factory are set to return to court next month, after the organisation allegedly dispelled persistent offensive smells last year. The Environment Protection Authority formally charged Van Hessen Australia Pty Ltd and a senior officer of the company just prior to Christmas, citing ongoing offensive odours emanating from the Shanley Street facility’s wastewater treatment plant since mid-October. More than 160 reports were said to have been filed by residents in the local area ahead of charges being laid. A prohibition notice preventing the company from discharging wastewater into its wastewater ponds until dissolved oxygen levels were maintained at an acceptable level, as well as restricting Van Hessen from discharging odours beyond the boundary of the premises, was also served in December. The prohibition notice was appealed before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) last month, and was upheld until a full VCAT hearing can be undertaken in May. Appearing remotely at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, legal representatives for Van Hessen and the company’s senior officer requested an adjournment of a number of charges, each of which are said to carry maximum fines of almost $2m for organisations and more than $350,000 for individuals.

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Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

AT THE READY: Among the social justice leaders helping serve pancakes were Isabella Sacco, Lyla Porter and Ames Rea.

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YUMMO: Lachlan Jones and Judd Price enjoy their pancakes.

GREAT WAY TO START THE DAY: Ryder Gambold, Janelle Gambold and Darcy Gambold at the pancake breakfast.

Pancake breakfast kicks off Shrove Tuesday RESIDENTS across the Rural City of Wangaratta tucked into pancakes yesterday, to mark Shrove Tuesday. The final day before the Christian season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, Shrove Tuesday - or Pancake Day - is traditionally a time to use up ingredients before fasting

during the 40 days of Lent. Among those enjoying the chance to feast on pancakes yesterday were members of the St Bernard’s Primary School community, who relished their first pancake breakfast together since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, making the delicious treats taste all the sweeter.

HELPING HANDS: St Bernard’s social justice leaders helping sell pancakes to raise money for Caritas were Grace Ely, Zoe Saunders, Aibhlin Burns and Phoebe Reid.

TIME TOGETHER: Maddie Everitt, past student Annabel Edwards, Rosie Edwards and Ruby Everitt enjoy their pancakes.

ALL HANDS ON DECK: Staff members Liz Maher, Joy Wooltorton and Sarah Ashton serve up the tasty treats.

2024 YEAR 7 INFORMATION EVENING SP IRU D SP VWDUW RQ WKH WK RI 0DUFK As part of our transition for 2024, we would like to invite future families to join us for our first Year 7 2024 Information Evening, which will be held on Wednesday, the 22th of March 2023 at 5:15pm (for a 6pm start). For any queries, please contact our Transition Leader, Hannah Nott on 03 5723 0500 or at Hannah.Nott@education.vic.gov.au. We look forward to meeting you.

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 9

Spreading vital cancer screening awareness By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN SOUTH Wangaratta Medical Centre are teaming up the North East Multicultural Association (NEMA) to provide an information session on cancer screening at NEMA’s Ovens street headquarters today to help raise important awareness to the local multicultural community. The medical centre received a grant from cancer council to enable them to organise events to reach out and increase the cancer screening population within the community, and have decided to first target Wangaratta’s multicultural community. Registered nurse Elizabeth Jesser will be talking to the group about the importance of cancer screening and the opportunities offered in the community to participate in screening, particularly cervical and breast screening in women. Pharmacist GP Kim Ching said information around screening availability is hard to come across for those coming from another country. Want to create a safe place to access this information and open up, making the event a casual chat with the community,” she said. “We will try and present it in different languages and in

BE SCREENED: (from left) Faryal Nawaz Khan, Su Ingleton (NEMA), TeresaMcMahan, Dr Dung Ho, Elizabeth Jesser and Kim Ching (South Wangaratta Medical) are passionate to get awareness out there on cancer screening for the local multicultural community today. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann terms of the clinic we have many doctors who have diverse language backgrounds and are very inclusive when providing screening services.” The information session will run from 1-3pm and will be followed by a free afternoon tea and there are no bookings required. NEMA outreach worker Su Ingleton said everyone will be

welcome to lear as much as they can, particularly for women aged 20-74. “A lot of them don’t have access to medicare because of their visas and they don’t know screenings are available because it’s not available in their own country,” she said. “We have such a good health system here which is able to perform these screenings, and

NO ONE’S UNSINKABLE To all those Unsinkable Guys out there – You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the lifejacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions. But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men. Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

UNSINKABLE GUY

RETHINK

TAKING RISKS AROUND WATER

its important people understand there is testing available. “Anyone can come along and learn as much as they can.” The South Wangaratta Medical Centre are also planning on using the grant for other opportunities such as opening the clinic after hours to enable more access for members of the community who cannot attend in working hours.

Firearm address neglect results in $2000 fine A WANGARATTA man has been whacked with a $2000 fine and had his firearms confiscated, after police found his gun safe unlocked and ajar during an inspection of his garage late last year. The accused man, of Appin Street, entered a guilty plea to firearm storage offences at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday, after police initially attended his home address following the alleged shooting of a bird in a residential backyard on the morning of December 4. According to police prosecutor Constable Imogen Akers, police were called to Belle Avenue around 8am following reports of a bird being shot, with the home owners suggesting the shot may have come from the accused’s nearby home. The accused denied having shot the bird, and its remains were not found during a search of the property. However, a search of the accused’s garage found six firearms in an unlocked gun safe, with further investigations uncovering the accused had failed to change the address of his firearms licence in the five months since moving houses. His licence was cancelled later that morning, and the firearms seized by police. Defence counsel Geoff Clancy said his client had not been involved in the bird shooting, and noted the safe door had been shut but had been left unlocked, as opposed to being ‘ajar’ as noted in the police summary. “He’s charged with far more serious matters,” Magistrate Peter Dunn said. “He’s had six guns just unsecured in a garage in the middle of town. “It’s quite serious.” Mr Clancy noted his client had no prior convictions, and urged Mr Dunn to consider placing the accused on a good behaviour bond without conviction. Mr Dunn did not convict the man, instead fining him a total of $2131 and upholding his firearm licence suspension.

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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Music in focus Wangaratta High School Last week the school community grooved into the weekend with music staff and students from the North East area coming together at the school’s performing arts centre for a music reading day. Thanks to everyone who joined in and made the day successful.

YOUNG LEADERS: Georgia Kelly, Urban Holt, Ariana Simsen and Ky Press received their school captain badges last week at Wangaratta West.

School captains

WELL PLAYED: Staff and students came together for music reading day last week at Wangaratta HIgh School.

Wangaratta West Primary School LAST week, Ariana Simsen, Ky Press, Georgia Kelly and Urban Holt were presented with their school captain badges. They will take on new responsibilities, including presenting awards at assembly, running fundraising, leading the ANZAC day walk, and many more.

Ariana, Ky, Georgia and Urban have said they are most excited to be a role model to younger students, speaking every week at assembly and helping the leadership team with these extra tasks. The school community is excited to see their achievements throughout semester.

Great start Wangaratta Primary School STUDENTS in foundation have hit the ground running, settling into routines both in and outside of the classroom. The new students have loved getting to know their classmates, teacher Mrs Downing and their senior buddies as well as adventuring on the junior playground. SPELL CHECK: Foundation students Jax Valle, Lily Offord, Isabelle Ferguson and Indi Sheather show off some of their literacy skills.

Time travellers Appin Park Primary School

Cathedral College Wangaratta

BOTH Year 5/6 classes are learning about historical eras and events by using their time machine to transport them to different times. One class is currently exploring Ancient Egypt and discovering a variety of artefacts that explains their way of life in those times. The other class have found themselves amongst the depths of the two major World Wars; ducking for cover and understanding the impact that war has on civilians, and how the influence that some strong leaders can have to try to dominate the rest of the world. Hopefully revisiting our history will help the students to not make the same mistakes that have happened in the past.

YEAR five students participated in one of three house swimming carnivals last week at the Wangaratta and Aquatic Centre. They were proud to show their support for their house and fellow students.

HISTORIC ADVENTURE: Appin Park year five student Kushini Siddi Arachchige looks on as year six student Zara McCrae prepares herself to enter the time machine.

HAVING FUN: (Back) Isabel Bradley and Eli Willoughby, with (front) Sebastian Neely, Leo Palmer and Darcy Mort, were among those enjoying the house swimming carnival.

Good sports

Which is larger: Australia or Antarctica?

What plastic are soft drink bottles typically made of? Is it a) polyethylene terephthalate (PET), b) polystyrene, c) polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or d) polyethylene?

How many legs does a butterfly have? Is it a) four, b) six, c) eight, or d) ten?

Which of the following would a herpetologist study? a) a virus, b) an asteroid, c) a steel bar, or d) a frog?

Order these objects from closest to farthest away from Earth: the International Space Station (ISS), the National Broadband Network’s Sky Muster satellites, the Moon.. For more CSIRO Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or call 02 6276 6643.

QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. Antarctica is nearly twice as large as Australia. 2. a) Soft drink bottles are commonly made from PET, a strong, watertight plastic that’s easy to recycle. 3. b) Butterflies are insects, and like all insects, they have six legs. 4. d) Herpetologists study reptiles and amphibians, including lizards, turtles and frogs. 5. The ISS is about 400 kilometres from Earth, the Sky Muster satellites are in geostationary orbit, about 40,000 kilometres away and the Moon is about 400,000 kilometres away.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 11

Health staff awarded for long service NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta recently awarded its dedicated staff for their varying lengths of long service to the organisation.

40 YEARS’ SERVICE: Noel Barnard and Lois Foley.

30 YEARS’ SERVICE: Sheila Allan (left), Sandra Smith and Louise Lowe.

35 YEARS’ SERVICE: Michael Falkenberg (left), Michael Reidy, Helen Cousland, Janet Baker, Paula Davey and Dianne O’Keeffe.

25 YEARS’ SERVICE: Kath Nichols (left), Alayne Culhane, Kim Comensoli, Patricia McNeilly, Carolyn Hannon and Nick Creek.

20 YEARS’ SERVICE: Kristen Smale (left), Anne Turnbull, Leah Comensoli, Kerrie Barker, Dirk Ring, Jodie Finlayson, Tanya Vickery, Stefanie Booth, Maryanne Quirk, Susan Pritchard, Helen Howell and Jennifer Newth.

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Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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WHAT’S ON

Uniting morning tea UNITING AgeWell Hume Home Care will hold a morning tea and “meet and greet” at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street tomorrow from 10.30am to 12pm. All are welcome to come and meet the local team and hear about the services available to support residents to live well and independently at home. For further enquiries or to RSVP call Suzy on 8527 5880.

Steinway on Stage with Emma Rayner MUSICIAN Emma Rayner will open this year’s Steinway on Stage concert series tonight at 6pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre. Emma has been seen on the stage playing cello, but she is also an accomplished pianist, and will be playing a program of classical music including favourite works by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt and Schubert. Also featuring an appearance by local pianist Tim Wong, tickets are available at www.wpacc.com.au.

yourstars ARIES

(March 21 to April 19) The changes you’ve waited to see in your work situation might not be happening quite as quickly as you hoped. Although the pace is slow, it’s ongoing. Expect to hear news soon.

TAURUS

(April 20 to May 20) You should be feeling very proud of the ﬁne effort you’ve made to get that important project done. Now take some time out to celebrate with family and friends. You’ve earned it.

GEMINI

(May 21 to June 20) You’re close to reaching your objectives. That’s the good news. But be careful: Your aspects show lots of potential distractions looming. Stay focused and keep your eyes ﬁxed on your goals.

CANCER

(June 21 to July 22) Be careful not to let that suspicious Cancerian mind create a problem where none exists. What you might believe is an act of betrayal could be nothing more than a misunderstanding.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Your Lion’s heart overﬂows with self-conﬁdence. All you need to do is tap into it, and you’ll be able to handle any change that must be made regarding that recent surprise development.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22)

The need to watch what you say becomes increasingly crucial this week. Be as temperate as you can with your comments and avoid arguments for the sake of controversy.

LIBRA

(September 23 to October 22) A longtime family problem presents new demands. But this time, you won’t have to go it alone: Someone else is asking to help share your responsibilities. Let it happen.

SCORPIO

(October 23 to November 21) A period of feeling vulnerable is about to give way to a stronger, more-self-conﬁdent aspect. Use this new strength to reafﬁrm promises you’ve made to others and yourself.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 22 to December 21) A creative dilemma stalls your progress. Instead of letting it raise your ire, use the time to re-examine your aims and perhaps come up with a new target.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to

January 19) Your nimble will might ﬁnd a way for you to work out those newly emerged problems plaguing your new project. Stay with it. The results will be well worth your efforts.

AQUARIUS

(January 20 to February 18) You might feel overwhelmed with having to decide which new opportunity you should follow. Best advice: Check them all out and see which offers what you really want.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

Continue to tread water before you even consider plunging into something that never seemed quite right. Some facts will emerge soon that can help you make a decision.

ACTION PACKED: 360 ALLSTARS connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus, coming to Wangaratta in September.

Fun for kids and families at the WPACC this year

international smash 360 ALLSTARS shows who will bring BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics and drumming to the stage on September 18 and 19, also sharing their skills with the community in a series of workshops which have strictly limited places. Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will introduce young audiences to the explore Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 4 with a highly interactive concert MSO for Kids: Making Mendelssohn on October 6 at 10am. Don’t miss out, with bookings for all shows available now at www.wpacc.com.au.

LITERATURE will leap from the pages and fun activities are on offer during this year’s program of events tailored to suit children and families at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre. Live shows and plays based around popular children’s books will be brought to life including Mr Stink, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Twits and The Gruffalo’s Child. Mr Stink by David Walliams, tells the story of Chloe, just about the loneliest girl in the world, who makes friends with Mr Stink, the local tramp, and decides to hide him in the gar-

den shed when he needs a place to stay. Designed to suit children aged six to 12 and their adults, Mr Stink arrives on Thursday, March 30 with shows at 10am and 6pm. One of the most read and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for children on April 27 and 28. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the production features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets, including the star of the show - The Very Hungry Caterpillar - and an Australian cast

who bring these beloved books to life on stage. Roald Dahl’s gruesome twosome The Twits are ready to delight and disgust in equal measure - the nastiest couple you could ever hope (not) to meet come to Wangaratta on June 5, with tickets selling fast for this show which is full of trickery and wickedly funny pranks. Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in this magical musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book, with shows on July 20 and 21. Also part of the program is

Printed Habitat at the gallery

Mullinmur Wetland Turtle Talk

A NEW exhibition featuring the work of four prominent North East Victorian printmakers, Anita Laurence, Fleur Rendell, Christine Upton and Barbel Ullrich, has opened at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Printed Habitat showcases the artists’ unique perspectives on the concepts of home, the memory of place and the impact of our engagement with the environment through printmaking techniques. See it at the gallery until April 16.

MEET local turtle species and enjoy a presentation and live display from Turtles Australia during the Mullinmur Wetland turtle talk on Thursday, March 2 at 5.30pm. Join in a walk and talk with local experts to discover all the great environment, culture and education activities that happen at Mullinmur wetland, with snacks provided (byo water bottle and wear study footwear and mosquito protection). Limited places are available with more information by contacting environment@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call 5722 0888.

Wangaratta Joe Matera Cup Day racing to visit the in March Wangaratta EXPERIENCE the thrill of Library country racing when the 2023 Winsec Savings and Loans Wangaratta Cup Day Races are held on Saturday, March 4 at the Wangaratta Racecourse. There will on-course entertainment including fashions on the field, live music and kid’s activities with plenty of outside grandstand seating for those looking to watch the races from an undercover spot. Gates will open at 11am and shuttle buses are available to and from the course.

Musician, music journalist and author Joe Matera will talk about his book Backstage Pass: the grit and the glamour at the Wangaratta Library on Friday, March 3 at 6.30pm. Joe Matera has played guitar with some of music’s big names and his interviews have appeared in magazines across the globe. Join Joe as he shares stories and gives the audience a peek into the sometimes not so glamourous life of a music journalist, with bookings essential for the free event and tickets available by calling 5721 2366.

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 13

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Volunteers are highly valued and are essential in helping the RSPCA maintain a clean, safe environment for the animals, giving them much needed enrichment through walks, play, cuddles and other engagement. Volunteers are required to be over 15 years of age. Foster Care - foster carers are essential in supporting the rehabilitation of the animals, opening their homes and hearts to allow these animals to shine in a safe, homely environment preparing them for their forever homes. These animals may be recovering from a visit to the vet or Ɏǝƺɵ ȅƏɵ ˡȇƳ Ɏǝƺ ɀǝƺǼɎƺȸ ƺȇɮǣȸȒȇȅƺȇɎ Ə ƫǣɎ ɀɎȸƺɀɀǔɖǼً ɎȒȒ young to be adopted out or who just need a break. (ȒȇƏɎǣȒȇɀ ‫ ٮ‬ƬȒȇɎƏƬɎ Ɏǝƺ áƏȇǕƏȸƏɎɎƏ «³¨! ɎȒ ˡȇƳ ȒɖɎ ɯǝƏɎ their current needs are.

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Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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KING VALLEY NEWS

Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas

Major renovation to take place at Whitfield childcare By ANITA McPHERSON

THE home of the Whitfield Community Childcare Centre and pre-school in the main street of Whitfield will soon be upgraded courtesy of a substantial grant from the Federal Government. The centre, which has expanded its operations considerably over the last few years, has outgrown its modest residence which will now be made fit for purpose, providing places for an additional 10 children. Staff team member Kate Walsh said the additional positions are necessary because the busy centre is now open four days a week. She said they plan to offer funded four year old kinder next year something they would have loved to offer this year but didn’t have space for - with childcare and three year old kinder provided. “The funded three year old kinder is in its second year and

the children are busy learning, playing, growing, negotiating, being big kid friends to youngsters on some days, and working with other big kids on our ‘big kid’ Monday,” she said. “We love the balance of being with peers as well as having days with one to five year olds all sharing the space and learning from and with each other.” Whitfield community childcare committee president Mario Mori said the grant was welcomed by the committee, awarded approximately $330,000 from the Commonwealth Department of Education, Skills and Employment under the Community Childcare Fund Program. He said for many years the only source of income for the centre had been the fundraising efforts of parents, so he was pleased this project - started two years ago had finally come to fruition. “For a little centre that was do-

nated to the community in the seventies from the local doctor - to today, we are thrilled to be granted that amount of money,” he said. “We have also received a small grant of $60,000 from the Victorian Government, with the total amount going towards the modernisation of the facility.” Mario said the renovation will include the removal of internal walls, installation of a new ceiling and lighting, the addition of a covered deck area to increase the centre’s size and capacity, plus more car spaces for parents and staff. He said the centre is currently licensed to cater to 15 children at one time, but with considerable population growth in the region expected to continue, it will be able to accommodate up to 30 in the future. The plans are now complete, building works will begin in April and they are expected to take about five months. The centre will relocate during

that time, with the location in the process of being finalised. Mario said it had been a challenging process as the centre considered all its options, including relocating entirely to a new site, but remaining where they are is the decision for now. He credits the hard work and commitment of committee members including Anna-Kate Pizzini for helping them work through the regulations and requirements along the way and is also grateful for the support of local council. “Whitfield is a community that always comes together productively and effectively and this is a reward for that kind of attitude - it’s what the community deserve,” he said. The need for more childcare, more staff and for long term accommodation in the area continues to be an issue which the committee - and the broader community - say still needs to be addressed.

BOWLS ACTION: Round three of the Moyhu community bowls competition held last Friday evening was interrupted by the dramatic wail of the fire siren, causing the Moyhu Fire Brigade team to withdraw from play as they quickly responded to a fire at the Edi Cutting. As the fire truck sped away, replacement players were sought and play got underway with great camaraderie. This week, Greta Cricket Club did the job again with different players. They now lead from a couple of chaser teams hot on their heels. Greta were represented by Lachlan Alexander, Robert Mangan and John Salafia (pictured). Bowls resumes for round four this Friday at 6pm sharp, followed by the popular sausage sizzle.

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host a social gathering at its clubrooms in Tara Court today from 1.30pm. The club will also host indoor carpet bowls from 12 noon tomorrow (Thursday), cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, or in St Patrick’s supper room. Next Wednesday’s social will be an in-house movie, ‘Runaway Heart’, screening at 1.30pm in the clubrooms, and there will be breakfast at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway at 8am on Friday, March 3. A NEW croquet club has started at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park. The group plays on Sunday mornings, and Wednesday and Thursday twilight, equipment supplied. For more information, contact Anne on 0490 173 169. WASP support group for those bereaved by suicide will hold its next sessions today. The teal group meets from 9.30am to 11am, and the purple group from 7pm to 8.30pm in the community room at the Wangaratta Library. The groups meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month. THE Australian Plant Society will hold its first meeting for 2023 on Thursday, February 23 in Wangaratta’s Masonic Hall, corner Appin and

Esmond Streets, from 7pm. Anyone interested in growing Australian plants is welcome to attend. WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held on Friday, February 24 from 2pm to 4pm in St Patrick’s supper room, Ford Street, Wangaratta. Music will be provided by The Rustic Ramblers, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, admission $5 (nonmembers $7), includes afternoon tea. For further information, contact Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451. The dance is held on the fourth Friday of each month. A HEALTH and wellbeing evening will be held at Everton Community Hall on Thursday, March 2 from 7pm to 8pm. If you are feeling stressed or concerned, or are worried about a loved one or friend and would like more information, join in this welcoming and relaxed evening with Nicole and Louise from Wellways. Tea/coffee on arrival. For more details, contact Yvonne on 0447 851 236. WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club has resumed playing for 2023. Play begins at 7.30am in the summer, and 8am in the winter. The group plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. New players welcome. Morning tea provided - please bring your own cup. For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.

Whitfield childcare AGM THE Whitfield Community Childcare Centre and pre-school will hold its annual general meeting on Tuesday, February 28 at the Mountain View Hotel in Whitfield. The meeting will start at 6pm and all interested are welcome to attend, with new committee members warmly invited to join the committed community group.

King Valley CWA meeting THE next meeting of the King Valley CWA will be held on Tuesday, March 7 at 6.30pm. The meeting will be held at the Mountain View Hotel in Whitfield and celebrate International Women’s Day, with all local women welcome to join in. To RSVP contact kvcwa1st@gmail. com.

King Valley Residents Association THE next meeting of the King Valley Residents Association will be held at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve on Wednesday, March 8 at 6pm. All interested are welcome to attend.

Trash ‘n’ Treasure in Whitfield SHOP for a bargain at the Trash ‘n’ Treasure outlet at the King Valley Community Memorial Hall in Whitfield on Saturdays from 10am until 3pm. Featuring a wide range of second hand goods including furniture, clothing, toys, kitchenware, books and more, all income (cash only) goes towards the upkeep of the locally owned hall. To donate items, contact Ange on 5729 8487.

SOCIAL CALENDAR WANGARATTA Cake Decorators meet every third Saturday of the month at the Baptist Church in Sisely Avenue from 12.30pm. The next meeting is on March 18, when Leanne Wood (state president) will demonstrate how to mould little farm animals. All welcome, cost for the day is $15. Phone Jeanie on 0439 087 630 for more information. WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street. New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448. GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday - arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start. The competition runs until 3.30pm-4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462. WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral. All welcome - for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480, Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062 or Marlene O’Keefe on 0417 454 126.

WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue. New string and wind players are welcome to come along to rehearsals to try out. For more information, email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Chloe on 0413 775 027.

WANGARATTA AL-Anon Family Group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 3pm at the backstage meeting room at St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street. All welcome. If your life has been affected by someone else’s drinking, this group may be for you. Contact David on 0403 552 950 or Bev on 0449 516 828.

WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present). The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7pm to 8.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. For more information, contact Bevan on 0437 196 118 or Les on 0412 250 674.

WANGARATTA Toastmasters conducts its meetings on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6.45pm in the community room at the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street. For more information, contact Leah Walker at leahwalka@gmail.com

OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta. New members are welcome to join this enthusiastic and welcoming group of singers. For more information, contact Helen on 0457 269278. LIFEBALL is held each Tuesday from 1pm on the basketball court at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. Lifeball is a non-contact game of netball, designed by a doctor and physio for the safety of mature players, with no running, walking backwards or throwing high balls, but enjoying fun and friendship. For more information, phone 0418 574 404.

BLOKES Time Out conducts regular gatherings and activities on the third Saturday of the month. For more information, visit gritandresilience@wangaratta.vic.gov.au CYCLING Without Age Wangaratta offers free tri-shaw rides to the elderly, and to people of any age with disabilities or reduced mobility. The group provides regular rides around Wangaratta to people living at home, or living in care. For more information, phone 0418 387 089 or email cwawangaratta@gmail.com TOPS weight supporting group meets at The Centre each Monday from 5pm to 6pm, offering encouragement and great company to support locals in managing their weight. For more information, phone 0458 374 261.

THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 15

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North East Media, publisher of the award winning Wangaratta Chronicle, is currently seeking expressions of interest from motivated candidates to join the team in Wangaratta as a cadet journalist. The cadetship is ideally suited for a Year 12 graduate. It is for three years, including course study by correspondence from Deakin University. The successful candidate will learn how to write clear, concise and interesting news, sport and feature stories for our newspaper and associated digital and social media platforms. We are searching for a budding writer who has the skills, passion and determination to be a journalist of the future.

Candidates must have excellent verbal and written English, sound computer skills, solid general knowledge, a genuine interest in the local community, and an ability to build rapport and networks quickly. You will need to be well organised, able to work to deadlines, and have strong attention to detail. Candidates must hold a valid driver’s licence, be available to work flexible hours, and photography and social media skills are desirable. North East Media is a leading independent family-owned media group with a commitment to community journalism. Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be emailed to Group Editor Jeff Zeuschner at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

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GORGEOUS Pedigree red and brown miniature poodle puppies, excellent temperaments, registered breeder, vet checked, vaccinated and microchipped, Wangaratta. Source number: RB101993, microchip numbers: 991003001958965, 991003001958879, 991003001958880. Phone (03) 5727 0595 or 0427 886 653 and a new litter is expected soon.

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MOTOR VEHICLES

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It is with great sadness that we announce that Ivan has passed away peacefully on February 20, 2023. Aged 82 years. Much loved husband to Margaret, devoted father to Terri and Glenn, loved father-in-law to Chris and Jodie, adored Pa to Henry, Jack and Ruby. Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace. Ivan’s funeral arrangements have yet to be ﬁnalised.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

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A RETURN OF GM CLASSICS AFTER a two year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions, the All GM Day motor show is headed back to Wangaratta’s Apex Park next month. Looking forward to seeing early Holdens back on show, such as these 1958 FC Special, 1934 Chev Master, and 1972 HQ Belmont, are (from left) deputy mayor Harry Bussell, Geoff Hope, Christine Hilli and Brian Wadley. Full story page 2 PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Fatal concerns

Police and local road safety authority urging care amid big rise in rural road deaths

DISTRACTION is just one of a number of driving behaviours contributing to road safety concerns according to local authorities, with around two thirds of the state’s 49 deaths so far this year occurring in regional Victoria. Some 32 lives have been lost (to February 13) on rural roadways, with a striking majority occurring in high-speed areas with

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

speed limits between 80 and 110kph. Police Eastern Region division 4 traffic advisor, Senior Sergeant Mick Savage, said the local region’s two fatal collisions, at Yalca and Lilliput,

were each preventable had drivers maintained awareness of the road conditions. “This (Lilliput) collision involved a vehicle and a cyclist both travelling the same direction and the cyclist was struck by the vehicle causing him to be thrown from his bike and (he) unfortunately died at the scene,” he said. “This was a collision that

did not need to happen and should not have happened - it is a strong reminder to not be distracted, drive to the conditions and be aware of upcoming hazards and other road users.” Speaking on road behaviour in general, RoadSafe North East (RSNE) chief executive, John Weinert, said driver aggression had seemingly increased since COVID-19

we also seem to be more angry, and therefore taking that aggression out while we’re driving.” Mr Weinert said police had expressed concerns around aggressive driving throughout the North East and Goulburn Valley regions, and said conveying important road safety messages had become even more challenging in recent times. ■ Continued page 3

restrictions were removed. “I’m on the road a fair bit, and the aggression that I see on the road nowadays compared to three or four years ago, is over the top - if I sit on the road and drive along at 100kph in cruise control, I’ll be the slowest car on the road,” he said. “That’s the stuff that’s happened since COVID we’re all in a hurry to get from point a to point b, and

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LEVESQUE (nee Vincent), Irene Ann. Passed away peacefully on February 19, 2023 after a 15 month battle with pancreatic cancer. <RX KDYH SXW XS D EUDYH ¿JKW EXW now you are free from pain. Rest in peace. ~ Your loving sister and brother-in-law Marion and Denis.

2015 Holden Cruze Equipe Sedan, auto, petrol, 102,165km, rego till January 2024 (1DD3ZC), new tyres, recently serviced and new brakes, has RWC, B A L I N E S E s t y l e ANCAP 5, $13,000. Call w o o d e n c a b i n e t , Damian 0427 800 016. PK[ Z[ FP ¿WV 40” television with CD GUDZV :KLW¿HOG Ph 0447 526 403.

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Local News. Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021

Charge up your engines

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

Wangaratta students compare admirably

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition. New members are always welcome. For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305. f INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Country stacks up in VCE

2021 - Page 5

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+. 3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice. 40+. figure. Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when were Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Across Secondary the region Goul- median of they performed reasonably terparts of scores 40+, Mount Scopus 30 with 6pc of College had a across the state. burn Valley Grammar School scores median of 28, Memorial College well judging by the VCE study was next 40+. Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat Clarendon 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

after a year like no other

Wang Repair Café returns

c REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.

John & Christine Haddrick

c FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

BORDER BUBBLE IS NOW IN PLACE

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra. “I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said. “It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve. “But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.” Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries. “I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said. “Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

their university offers yesterday. PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

offers

“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now. “Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm. A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor. For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need. Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

Teens look to the future with uni

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday. The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities. Kayla, 17, has been offered a

Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

c HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm. The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation. Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

MAZDA BT 50 XTR 2014 3.2L turbo diesel, 6 speed auto, 4 X 4, 186,000 km, rego to January 2024 (1CP8SR), RWC, UHF radio, dual battery, electric trailer brakes, bull bar, canopy, roof racks, PRICE REDUCED FROM $27,000 TO $25,000. Ph Alan 0499 087 598.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer. Gardening and home cleaning Transport for medical appointments

Home nursing services Personal care

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Remember your loved one in a lasting way

2011 FORD FALCON Ute, XR6, limited edition FG, auto, super cab, 108,000km, RWC, 8 months reg, (YLD597), $24,500. Ph 0412 543 949.

The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of ﬂowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

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The bereaved family will be notiﬁed of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 17

SPORT

Wangaratta Harcourt push up standings

TRACKING WELL: Jodie Fruend and Wangaratta A1 are through to the preliminary final.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

A1 one step away from grand final berth A1: Wangaratta earned a shot at a grand final berth after a strong win against Benalla at Rutherglen on Saturday. After an even start Wangaratta forged ahead in the middle stages of the game with the lead blowing out to 25 at one point, and the final margin of 10 flattered Benalla. Ian Brimblecombe, Laurie McDonald, Paul King and Leon Quartermain (20-17) had a good win over a very strong Chris Cooney led rink, while Maurie Braden, Jodie Fruend, Phil Davern and Greg McDonald (2519) and Trevor Selwood, Chris Randell, Brian Challman and Graeme Smith (23-13) both had easy wins. Ethan Fruend, Rhoanna Smith, Renee Hill and Greg Braden (12-21) were the only rink down. Final scores: Wang 80 shots def Benalla 70 shots. Wangaratta play Wodonga in a preliminary final at Rutherglen next Saturday. A3: Wangaratta had a great win over Wodonga at Howlong on Saturday. With mothballs for the losers Wangaratta dug deep to survive by just three shots. Gary Chambers, Peter Selwood, Terry Corrigan and Bobby McCalman (26-13) paved the way for the victory with a big win, while Gary Fenlon, Gerald Brown, Terry Johnson

and Richie Allan (21-18) also had a rink win. Brian Godfrey, Gary King, Barb McDonald and Tyson Chivers (16-17) just lost out, while Tom Morrow, Steve English, Lorna Martinelli and Steve Bihun went down by 12 (12-24). Final scores: Wang 75 shots def Wodonga 72 shots. Wangaratta will play Moira in the preliminary final at Myrtleford on Saturday B1: Wangaratta fell to Moyhu for the second week running, this time in the qualifying final at Myrtleford on Saturday. Ian Ritchie, Neil Magee, Howard White, and Anthea Nockels (24-12) were the main destroyers for Moyhu proving too good for Keith Izard, Gayle King, Ralph Martinelli and Heather Coyle. Ken Essenhigh, Lance Jenkin, Lyn Kahlefeldt and Joy Izard (16-17) lost by the barest of margins to Charlie Thompson, Max Baker, Ian Mills and Dave Waring. Klaus Kazenwadel, John Knight, Graeme Bull and Fran Don (26-17) had a good win over Stuart Brain, Joe Northey, Graham Batten and Neale Grimshaw. Final scores: Wang 54 shots lost to Moyhu 58 shots. Wangaratta will face St James at Benalla in the preliminary final next Saturday with the winner to meet Moyhu in the grand final.

B3: Wangaratta’s season ended on Saturday following a big loss to Howlong at Corowa Civic. Chris Bell, Bruce Desmond, Tiger Bussell and Ric Chivers (13-22), Graeme Norman, Ann Keen, Mick Lenane and Susan Bull (14-21) and Ron McAuliffe, Howard Beard, John Keen and Sussan Singleton (15-22) all went down in the elimination final. Final scores: Wang 42 shots lost to Howlong 65 shots. Mid-Week Pennant: A1: Wangaratta finished on top of the ladder despite losing at home to YMGCR in the last home and away round of A1 Mid-Week. Ian Brimblecombe, Laurie and Barb McDonald, and Paul King (13-16), Trevor Selwood, Jodie Fruend, Greg McDonald, and Leon Quartermain (17-33) both had losses, with Maurie Braden, Chris Randell, Leon Quartermain and Lorna Martinelli (24-19) the only winners for the home side. Final scores: Wang 2 pts 54 shots lost to YMGCR 12 pts 68 shots. Wangaratta play YMGCR in the qualifying final at Benalla this week. A3: Wangaratta earned top spot on the ladder after an all rinks win over Corowa Civic in the last round. Gary Fenlon, Peter Selwood,

Gayle King, and Steve Bihun (20-19), Bev Hogan, Ron McAuliffe, Gary King, and Heather Coyle (21-10) and Gary Chambers, Terry Corrigan, Lyn Kahlefeldt and Chris Bell (23-11) all had wins. Final scores: Wangaratta 14 Pts 64 shots def Corowa Civic 0 pts 40 shots. Wangaratta will play Dederang at Wodonga in this week’s qualifying final. B1: Wareena Park went down to Milawa in the last home and away round. Terry Kirby’s rink went down to Marty Lane (28-16), Alice Dobson went down to Jane Osmotherly (24-12), while Walter Brett lost to Bernard Neal (2521). Final scores: Wareena Park 0 pts 49 shots lost to Milawa 14 pts 77 shots. Moyhu snatched a last-minute spot in the finals with a win over top side Mansfield in the last home and away game. Charlie Thompson, Max Baker, Neil Magee and Angela Delany (23-11) were the only winning rink for Moyhu, but the big margin was enough to cover Joe Northey (18-21) and Stuart Brain (19-20). Final scores: Moyhu 10 pts 60 shots def Mansfield 4 pts 52 shots. Moyhu will play Corowa RSL at Myrtleford in the elimination final this week.

Section 1 WANGARATTA Hardcourt have improved their position on the ladder with a comprehensive win over Everton Blue on Saturday. Hardcourt took control early, winning the first three sets and from there they went into cruise control and recorded a comfortable win that catapulted them to second on the ladder. Chris Lucas, Kylie Doig and Denise Goodwin were unstoppable for Hardcourt, while Ruth Kneebone, Bec Sacco and Robert Voss flew the flag for Everton. A depleted Corowa outfit were always going to find the going tough against the might of the Rutherglen team, and this definitely played out on Saturday with Rutherglen recording a convincing win. Corowa never took a backward step and continued to pressure Rutherglen but the mountain proved too big to scale and eventually fell away which allowed Rutherglen to hone their game and skills for the finals. Scott Francis, Josh Quick and Sheree Coghill were Rutherglen’s best and Corowa’s best were Marianne Spencer, Jo Mathews and Anne Rhodes. Section 2 For the second week in a row Everton Red have lost a match by less than four games, this week it was the experienced Myrrhee team that inflicted the loss. Myrrhee were quick out of the blocks and set up an early lead, then after the second round of sets Myrrhee had increased their lead to seven games. Cathy Van Berlo and Di Griffin snuffed out any hope Everton had of victory with an 8-0 win. Myrrhee had all the answers when it mattered and held on for a four game victory. Cathy, Di and Phil Corker were instrumental in Myrrhee’s victory, while Everton’s best were Lukas Evans, Alan Wood and Jo Lucas. Wangaratta Hardcourt continue to improve and grow in confidence with each passing week, and they have developed into a team that demands respect after each performance. Hardcourt gained the ascendancy early by winning the first three sets and from there it was a cakewalk as they won sets at will. Boorhaman weren’t disgraced as they managed to win 3 sets thanks to Nick Batchelor, Kirsty Tyers and Merryn Byrne. Hardcourt were best served by Ray Munari, Tomo Moriya and Henry Dean. Section 3 Boorhaman (Darren Saward, Kane Tyers, Jack Keys, Dale Robinson) continue their steady rise up the section three ladder with a comprehensive win over Wahgunyah Wranglers (Wayne Johnstone, Mitch Parker, Lily Palmer, Allison Bartel). Wahgunyah Wahnation (Ollie Sturve, Jack Reid, Scott Parker, Andrew Palmer) continue their winning way with another stunning performance against Wahgunyah Deep Heat (Josh Reid, Jacob Palmer, Katie Bergin, Kendall Reid). The final position in the section three top four will be decided next week, Wranglers will need to win a couple of sets against United to give themselves a chance of playing finals, as Wooragee and Deep Heat play each other and a big win to either team could see them sneak into the top four. RESULTS Section 1: Hardcourt Pinkertons 8-71 def Everton Blue 1-34, Rutherglen 8-70 def Corowa 1-23. Section 2: Hardcourt Pulvirenti 5-54 def Boorhaman 3-37, Myrrhee 5-52 def Everton Red 4-48. Section 3: Wahgunyah Wahnation 6-48 def Wahgunyah Deep Heat 0-13, Boorhaman 6-48 def Wahgunyah Wranglers 0-24. Under 15: Wahgunyah 5-37 def Corowa Hewitt 2-24, Corowa Barty 4-32 def Rutherglen 3-30. Ladders Section 1: Rutherglen 92, Hardcourt Pinkertons 77, Corowa 70, Wahgunyah 67, Everton Blue 5. Section 2: Hardcourt Pulvirenti 62, Everton Red 51, Boorhaman 46, Myrrhee 42. Section 3: Wahgunyah Wahnation 93, Boorhaman 52, Wahgunyah United 41, Wahgunyah Wranglers 32.5, Wooragee 29.5, Wahgunyah Deep Heat 28. Under 15: Wahgunyah 71, Corowa Hewitt 53, Corowa Barty 27, Rutherglen 23.

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Bocquet joins the Ovens and Murray

SUPER SQUAD: The WDCA country week contingent (back, from left) Andrew Briggs (scorer), Fraser Ellis, Paddy McNamara (vc), Jacob Beattie, Cooper Matheson, Lachie Scales, Brady Bartlett, Harkaran Mann, Nick Pell, Stephen Hicks (team manager), (front, from left) Koot Pienaar, Matt Whitten, Dylan Bursill, Pranav Menon (c), Josh Nanson, Tyler Nanson.

WDCA taking positives from successful country week By NATHAN DE VRIES DESPITE going down in their last two matches, including the final, the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s campaign in the Victorian Country Cricket League Melbourne Country Week tournament has been hailed as a success after securing promotion to the Provincial division for next summer’s competition. After wiping the floor with Hamilton DCA, South West CA and Bellarine Peninsula CA, the WDCA met their match in eventual premiers Warrnambool DCA on Thursday, where they lost by five wickets after posting 9/228. The WDCA openers batted well but couldn’t replicate their lofty scores from earlier in the week, with Koot Pienaar (44), Cooper Matheson (34), Harkaran Mann (23) and Pranav Menon (three) all getting starts. An unbeaten 53 from Matt Whitten and a solid 33 from Dylan Bursill got the WDCA to 9/228 from their 50 overs, a total which Warrnambool tried to reach early, with openers Geoffrey Williams and Jack Burnham belting 40 runs from five overs. Mann got the breakthrough wicket of Burnham for 21 and for a time the WDCA was on top, with Paddy McNamara striking with two wickets of his own to have War-

RUNS THERE: Matt Whitten drives through the covers. BOUNDARY SHOT: Koot Pienaar tees off in the grand final against Warrnambool DCA. PHOTOS: Peter Whitten rnambool DCA 3/71 after 12 overs. A half-century from Williams and an unbeaten 77 from Bailey Jenkinson, as well as contributions from Cameron Williams (21) and Ben Threlfall (35*) was enough to sink the WDCA, with Warrnambool reaching the total in the 33rd over. Despite the loss, their crushing victories from earlier in the week secured a finals berth for the WDCA on Friday, a rematch against Warrnambool for the division two crown. WDCA won the toss and chose to bat again, and Pienaar and Matheson put on 73 runs before the first wicket fell in the 10th over when Pienaar was caught out for 40. Matheson (31) and Menon (14) followed soon after, while Mann hunkered down to put on a resurgent innings of 86 runs at just under a run a ball, and was the second-last wicket to fall. The middle order failed to have

any real impact, while the tail wagged slightly with Nick Pell and Josh Nanson contributing 44 runs between them. After Fraser Ellis was stumped for eight runs in the 45th over, the WDCA were all out for 247, and needed to bowl and field well to take home the title. Warrnambool’s Williams and Burnham got the ball rolling for their side once again, supported by a handy 62 run innings from Chris Bant. Despite McNamara picking up another two wickets, the WDCA had no answer to the Warrnambool batting line-up, as they cruised to a five-wicket victory with 52 deliveries to spare. WDCA skipper Pranav Menon said the week was a great time with some truly phenomenal teammates. “I think Country Week was really a good experience for all of us as a group, and leading that bunch was

really good,” he said, “Everybody came together really quickly - everyone plays for different clubs and we were all heading down as a team to Melbourne to represent the WDCA. “I wasn’t surprised that we got into the grand final, but when you’re in the grand final there is going to be a challenge. “We didn’t go well in all three departments but a lot of learnings were taken by all of us going forward. “It was a really good experience for all of us and I look forward to playing Provincial next year.” Despite not taking out the title, the WDCA impressed the competition, with the top three batters in division two hailing from the association: Harkaran Mann (298 runs averaging 99.33), Pranav Menon (241 at 60.25) and Koot Pienaar (219 at 43.80) - Menon, Pienaar and Brady Bartlett were also among the division’s top wicket takers.

THE SS&A Ovens and Murray Football Netball League is pleased to announce Michael Bocquet as the league’s newest operations manager. Bocquet will enter the role with an intrinsic understanding of the league and its member clubs through his previous role as region operations and umpire manager at AFLNEB. “Michael’s passion for community sport stood out from 17 other solid candidates, with applications for the role being received both locally and interstate,” O&M general manager Kane Arendacikas said. “His impressive knowledge of both OMFNL and AFL Victoria country rules and regulations, along with being familiar with online scoring platforms and compliance protocols, makes him a valuable asset for both the league and its member clubs.” He begins the full-time role on Monday, February 27. O&M chairperson David Sinclair was also happy to have Bocquet aboard. “We are delighted Michael has accepted the league operations position,” Sinclair said. “His previous experience as both an umpire and AFLNEB staff member will give Michael all the tools required to thrive in this role. “A key part of the operations manager’s duties is to develop strong relationships with all our member clubs, and with Michael already a familiar face in O&M circles, we feel this will be a natural transition. “We look forward to working with Michael given his proven passion for not only the O&M, but community sport in general.”

Wangaratta tennis teams attacked Country Week, coming home with C2 win ■ From back page

Kneebone and Shane Flynn then made the most of their advantage in the second rubber to sail to victory in the third and final clash 8-5 to hand Wangaratta Legionnaires a C2 Country Week victory. But it was Kneebone and Reidy’s performance against Mt Prospect Red in the semi-final that Flynn named the moment of the week. The pair battled it out in the 35 degree heat to win 8-6 and send their team into the final. “The big performance was in the semi-final, Steve Reidy was

feeling the heat and didn’t know if he could play but we talked him into it knowing if he played the semi I’d play the final. “It was his big performance that got us into the final, he wasn’t in a good way after it but we got in and ended up winning.” Flynn said the week was as much about the social element as it was the competition on court. “We were having a great time at night and then turning up and playing good tennis so it was just a really enjoyable week,” he said.

“Our team got along really well and we got along well with Leongatha who we played in the final which made that good fun. “Country Week’s great because you see familiar faces that you only see once every 12 months. “It’s a unique event that everyone’s there to have fun and the tennis is a by-product of that.” Over 1300 players across 213 teams from all over Australia, as well as a handful of international teams took part in the Country Week event making it one of the largest tennis competitions in the world.

C2 CHAMPS: Wangaratta Legionnaire’s (back L-R) Jack Gerrish, Shane Flynn, Pat Flynn, Steve Reidy, Paul Mitchell, (front L-R) Joe Allen, Ben Kneebone and Jason Barnett teamed up to win Country Week’s C2 division.

THREE GENERATIONS: Pat Flynn (right) with son Shane Flynn (centre) and grandson Joe Allen (left).

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THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - Page 19

SPORT

Wangaratta basketball take on Crash the Boards By WILLSON MACK

TOP EIGHT: The Wangaratta Warriors u16 boys finished inside the state’s top eight teams.

Warriors juniors dazzle on top stage By WILLSON MACK WANGARATTA basketball’s u16 boys and u18 girls teams contested the Victoria Country State Championships at Bendigo on the weekend. The u16 boys defeated Shepparton, before a hefty loss to Bendigo saw the Warriors needing to beat Pakenham in their final pool game to qualify for division one. In a tight clash that went down to the wire, the Warriors were able to edge out Pakenham by two and set up a quarter final match up with Ballarat in division one. After a close first quarter that saw the Warriors only trailing by two, Ballarat’s size was too much to handle and saw them dominate the rest of the game, knocking the Warriors out of the tournament. Under 16 boys coach Jacqui Henry said she was proud of her boys’ efforts.

TOP 16: The Warriors u18 girls are one of the 16 best in Victoria. “The boys finished around sixth in the state which is rare for Wangaratta, especially in the under 16s,” Henry said.

“It’s a credit to the young men, they worked hard and played as a team. “They beat good teams but were

also beaten but good teams but I’m so proud of them. “They weren’t tall so they gave away height to the two teams that beat them but they played every game out and have it everything. “They’re such good role models for Wangaratta so hopefully in the future they can stay and continue to be great leaders.” The u18 girls played some tough competition on day one, going down to Wonthaggi, Traralgon and Bendigo which saw them qualify for division two and a quarter final against Ballarat. In a hard fought game that saw Ballarat jump out to a 10-point lead, which saw the Warriors get within one point late in the third quarter, Ballarat’s superior shooting saw them down Wangaratta by eight points. The u18 girls’ result at the championships saw them finish inside the state’s top 16.

Leitch honoured by district’s golf body YARRAWONGA and St James golfer, Tom Leitch, has been awarded life membership of the North Eastern District Golf Association (NEDGA), after almost 60 years of participation in the local area. Having begun as a junior with the Jubilee and St James golf clubs in 1965, Leitch graduated to become a member at Benalla Golf Club before plying his trade in Yarrawonga from 1990. He joined the NEDGA executive in 1995 and took over as coordinator of the district’s Sand Greens Challenge in 2004, before an 11year stint as district captain from 2008 to 2019 rounded out 24 years of service to the local golfing landscape.

He also played a key role in assisting the amalgamation of the men’s and women’s competitions. Accepting his life membership and plaque at Myrtleford Golf Club on Sunday, February 12, Leitch paid tribute to the executive team he had joined, five of whom had already been granted life membership. He said it had been an honour to be so closely involved in local golf over the last quarter of a century, and thanked all involved, noting they had been the reason he was able to continue for the time that he did. “The most enjoyable part was being able to get around all the clubs in the district, playing in their tournaments and meeting the people

involved, the wonderful volunteers who devote so much time to the running of their respective clubs and host visitors,” he said. “I have been able to make many acquaintances and friends from Tallangatta to Mansfield and Yarrawonga to Mount Beauty. “The role is not possible without support - the support and assistance I have received from other members of the executive, club representatives and players who have all forwarded on details and results to me has been greatly appreciated and helpful, as has been the support of the press. “This award is such an honour, very humbling, and greatly appreciated.”

GOLFING STALWART HONOURED: Tom Leitch (right) was recognised for almost 25 years of commitment to the local golfing landscape, receiving his life membership badge and plaque from district president Phil Conway.

WANGARATTA Basketball Inc participated in the Crash the Boards program last month. Crash the Boards - a play on words of a popular basketball phrase - saw eight basketball associations, including Wangaratta, led by Collingwood to implement a suite of interventions targeting key change makers such as coaches, players, committee members and referees to address and act on the gendered drivers of violence. Wangaratta’s senior players, u18 boys team and some coaches participated in the program. Funded by Sport and recreation Victoria, the program provided expertise on gender equity with the important expertise of basketball coaches. Wangaratta Basketball Inc coaching director Jacqui Henry believes the program was beneficial for all involved. “It was very important for all coaches, athletes and parents,” Henry said. “Everyone who attended the program are aware of saying general neutral statements and changing phrases from ‘pick up a man’ to ‘pick up a player’, or instead of ‘man to man defence’ it’s ‘personal defence’. “It’s important we’re not referring to genders specifically and is something all sports should look at.” The eight week block is designed to allow consecutive implementation, however, the maintenance and sustainability of the intervention will be reinforced through ongoing club communication. Wangaratta Basketball will appoint leaders who will be supported by the Crash the Board program facilitator, to coordinate, develop, and implement a tailored Gender Equity Action Plan that embeds changes to their practices and policies. “For each new representative and domestic season we’ll be putting out a reminder on the terminology everyone needs to know, especially coaches,” Henry said. “At the start of the representative season as part of the requirements all coaches will be educated on the terminology that they need to use. “All players need to be treated equally.” Each association will also host a theme round with their key leaders and senior players championing key messages across a weekend in 2023. Wangaratta basketball was the first country association to take on the program. “Wangaratta and Collingwood were the first two associations to take on the program so Wangaratta was the first country association,” Henry said. “It’s a credit to everyone involved to bring awareness to all athletes and parents.”

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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WDCA Country Week wraps up

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Page 18

FAST FOREHAND TESSA Koop smashes a forehand in the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club’s junior competition on Saturday morning PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Country Week victory Wangaratta g tennis teams’ success in Yarrawonga, g , coming g home with C2 win

COUNTRY Week tennis has wrapped up in Yarrawonga for the six Wangaratta men’s teams that tried their hands against the state’s best. It was a relatively successful week for all teams with the A grade, Special B1 and one of the C2 teams making finals but it was Wangaratta Legionnaires in C2 who ran

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

away with the chocolates. The team that included Shane Flynn (C), Ben Kneebone, Patrick Flynn, Stephen Reidy, Jack Gerrish, Jason Barnett and Joe Allen lost just two matches across

the round robin and finals to down Leongatha Slingshots 3-0 in the grand final. Wangaratta Legionnaire’s captain Shane Flynn enjoyed a terrific week. “It was really exciting,” Flynn said. “Personally I’ve played in four or five finals over the years and have never cracked one so it was great to finally win. “There’s a big joke around

the club that anyone who had been in finals but not won have got a monkey on their back so it’s good to finally get the monkey off.” It was a family occasion for Flynn who played with his father Pat and nephew Joe Allen. “It was awesome to play with my father Pat and nephew Joe,” he said. “My dad’s played tennis

for 50 something years and Joe’s just starting his career so it was great to experience the week with them. “It was interesting how the team came about, I was talking to my apprentice Jack Gerrish about playing around 12 months ago and we found a few others and it all snowballed from there. “We didn’t know how we’d go but we enjoyed each

other’s company and had a good time which was key to playing well.” In the division winning clash, Allen and Gerrish teamed up to win the first rubber 8-3, while the second had plenty of drama with Leongatha’s pairing retiring hurt when they were up 7-6 against Wangaratta’s Kneebone and Shane Flynn. ■ Continued page 18

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