Wangaratta Chronicle 220324

Full results: 8 page lift-out inside

EGGED ON IN TIME FOR EASTER

Wangaratta green thumb Mario Caligiuri loves his garden, and it has certainly delivered the goods with this eggplant weighing near 1kg.

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Man charged Man over alleged over jeweller y jewellery store robber y store robbery Police

In data released yesterday by the Crime Statistics Agency for the 2023 calendar year to December, the Wangaratta local government area (LGA) recorded its highest rate of crime in

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

more than 10 years.

There were some 1938 criminal offences in total, an increase of 245 offences from 2022 figures and at a rate of 6446 incidents per 100,000 people, compared to the state average of 5672.

Despite the increased figures, Wangaratta recorded crime at the fourth highest rate in the Eastern region and 25th highest for the whole state.

Acting Inspector for the Wangaratta Police Service Area, Nathan Ractliffe, said while rates were at the highest in more than a decade, it was a positive side-effect of the increase of reported of-

fences and victim reports by the public, which was also at a decade high.

“A lot of it I put down to people being more encouraged these days to report crimes, whether it’s public order, criminal damage or anti-social behaviour,” he said.

“We’re encouraged by the fact we’ve got more people ringing police who report personal crimes.

Page 3 Grand finale to WDCA season

Sport

“Our police assistance line is another avenue for people to report crime and that reflects in our reporting of statistics.

“It’s not because there’s been a significant increase in crime, it’s because there’s more avenues for people to report crime, which then shows that increase.”

A total of 613 theft related offences (from 496 in 2022)

including theft from a motor vehicle and other thefts were some of the largest contributors to the rise in offences, with criminal damage and breaches of family violence orders being the highest form of offending.

Acting Inspector Ractliffe said police would like to see more vigilance taken in terms of securing property.

■ Continued page 2

PHOTO: Shane Douthie

Police see positives in decade high, pointing to greater reporting, not criminal spike

Family incidents continued to show a steady year-on-year decline in the area since 2019, going down 1.6 per cent on last year’s data.

“We just want to encourage people to be a little more vigilant with their property whether it’s cars, houses or lawn mowers, just making sure people are securing their items so that opportunistic crime goes down.”

But incidents are still occurring at a higher rate that the region’s average with 2042 offences per 100,000 people compared to the Eastern Region average of 1458.

Surrounding areas including Benalla and Wodonga registered even higher rates of family incidents at 2525 and 2318 offences per 100,000 people respectively.

Acting Inspector Ractliffe said

patrolling family violence in the area remained a high priority.

“People are more in tuned to ring police when they see family violence, whether they’re involved or not involved, and we’re encouraged by that,” he said.

“If someone is subject to family violence then children see it and family members see it, so the trauma is spread across the family, not just that isolated incident.”

Acting Inspector Ractliffe said a particular positive from the calendar year statistics has been the impact of a focused neigh-

THE Australian Greens tabled a bill in the Senate on Tuesday to introduce divestiture powers into Australian competition law with the view of ending the supermarket duopoly between Woolworths and Coles.

Greens Economic Justice spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said the giant supermarket corporations have had it their way for far too long.

“It’s time that the interests of people took precedence over the profits of corporations,” he said.

“Giving our courts and competition regulators the power to smash the supermarket duopoly will help rein them in.

“This isn’t a controversial or radical proposition.

“The UK has this power, and the US has been using it for well over a century.”

It comes after the supermarket duopoly was in Indi MP Helen Haines’ crosshairs in parliament recently as she urged the government to act on cost-of-living pressures.

In her ‘Reining in the supermarket duopoly’ speech Dr Haines again highlighted the cost-of-living and the impacts it is having on people in Indi.

“We know that Australia is going through a period of inflation; in fact, we learnt that prices rose 3.4 per cent in the year to January,” she said.

“But many people will tell you the price increases we have seen at Coles and Woolies have been well above

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

that, and the data backs that up too.”

Dr Haines said Woolworths and Coles have a combined market share of 65 per cent compared to Britain where the top two supermarkets have a combined market share of 43 per cent; and the United States, where the four largest supermarkets have a combined market share of 34 per cent.

“This concentration leads to a lack of competition, without which, we do not have the market forces needed to keep prices low and fair,” she said.

Dr Haines said farmers are also getting a raw deal when it comes to payment for goods.

“Like the customers, the farmers are also being pushed to the brink by this supermarket duopoly,” she said.

“While the prices we pay at the check-out have gone up, the prices paid to farmers absolutely have not.

“And they can’t just find someone else to sell to either.

“My message now to the government and to all of us here on opposition benches and on the crossbench is: stand up to them.

“Let’s have the courage to get behind some absolute change in this terrible system and do something for the people we represent.”

bourhood policing initiative in the North East, which has targeted drug offenders.

“We’ve had some really good clearance rates where we’ve identified offenders who are trafficking drugs or committing offences and we’re actually holding those offenders to account,” he said.

“There’s been a significant increase in detections and offences identified through the neighbourhood policing proactive patrols and I think it’s been a real driver of why our reported crime is going up as well.”

Crime rates in Alpine and Indigo shires saw a decrease on the previous year, sitting well below the state average of incident rates per 100,00 people.

Wodonga and Benalla crime rates matched trends with the Wangaratta LGA as Wodonga also recorded its highest rate of crime in a year in more than 10 years.

Overall, there was an 8.4 per cent increase in criminal offences from last year in the state, but the crime rate per 100,000 people remained at its third lowest level in the past decade.

Whhil i e t the pr p i icces s we e paay y at t the cheeck cout t haavve gonone e up, thhe e prices s pa p id to o fa farmerers s abssoolutetely l have ve not o

- Dr r He H le len Hainnes e

Man charged over robbery

A MAN alleged to have been involved in the smash and grab of more than $17,000 worth of items at a Wangaratta jewellery store has been arrested and charged in Ballarat this week.

Police said the man was arrested in Ballarat on Monday morning and charged as one of the two men who allegedly entered Prouds the Jewellers inside Wangaratta’s Co-Store with hammers

just after 1:10pm on February 1. It is further alleged whilst inside the business the pair smashed glass cabinets and stole jewellery before fleeing in a black Volkswagen with stolen number plates on Faithfull Street, towards Wilson Road.

Around $13,423 worth of jewellery was damaged along with four glass display

cases, worth $2500 each, during the alleged robbery.

When arrested on Monday morning, the Ballarat man allegedly ran from chasing officers at a petrol station, dropping a loaded gun and was tasered after being found in a bush.

The 31-year-old man faced Ballarat Magistrates Court on Tuesday where he was refused bail, and he will

return to court on Monday.

He is facing charges related to theft and criminal damage from the Wangaratta smash and grab and firearms offences related to his arrest.

The court heard the accused was involved in a similar incident at Prouds Geelong, when three people entered the jewellery store and stole around $63,891

worth of gold chains on October 7 last year.

The accused was wanted on seven arrest warrants before being caught, with other allegations including family violence, multiple fuel thefts, car crash and drug-driving charges.

Police are still searching for the second man involved with the Wangaratta robbery.

Buzzcut

Brothers are taking on the World’s Greatest Shave, with $6000 raised so far

By CHLOE JAENICKE

A TEAM of 10 year six students from Cathedral College will be shaving their heads as a part of the World’s Greatest Shave.

They called themselves the Buzzcut Brothers and decided to take part in the cause as a group as Tom Benton said they

Court told of alleged involvement in jewellery store smash and gjyggrab Hairy panic is continuing to cause concern

Police conducted fingerprint analysis at the scene following the incident and consulted extensive CCTV footage at the shopping complex in an effort to identify those involved.

Anyone with information on the alleged incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com. au.

HAD IT UP TO HERE: An Oxley resident sent in this photo of hairy panic knocking on the back door.

believed it would help them raise more money.

“We just went around and asked people if they wanted to do the World’s Greatest Shave and a lot of people volunteered,” student Tom Benton said.

Many of the team members have been wanting to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave for a while, with Leonidas Fidge

taking part for a second time.

“I have some family members who have been diagnosed with cancer in the past and now and I just wanted to donate money towards treatment and research,” Tom said.

“Blood cancer and leukaemia are very bad things so we’re raising money for their treatment and hoping people get

better from it,” student Rob Stribley said.

The boys have already raised more than $6000 and are excited to shave their heads.

Rob said any additional donations would be appreciated.

“To donate to the Buzzcut Brothers visit https://secure.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/registrant/TeamFundraisingPage.

By SHANE DOUTHIE

THE scourge of hairy panic has hit Oxley as a reminder of our long dry spell before this week’s rain.

One resident contacted The Chronicle saying her backyard had been overrun with the pesky plant, also known as Panicum effusum (but don’t call it tumbleweeds).

She said it was so thick when she began cleaning it up her dog ran into the mire to retrieve a previously ‘hidden’ bone.

The resident said she had also seen properties along the Great Alpine Road inundated with the weed.

Hairy panic thrives during extremely dry summer periods usually when paddocks are left unmanaged.

The plant’s stems and seed dry out and are easily picked up and carried along by the wind, only coming to rest when trapped by a barrier such as a fence, out buildings and people’s homes.

Wangaratta made worldwide headlines back in 2016 when numerous homes and properties were overrun with the plant.

BUZZCUT BROTHERS: (back) Will Reilly, Mason Jones, Tom Benton, Harrison Jose, Rob Stribley, (front) Alex Hodgson, Leonidas Fidge, Reece Pearson, Hayden Rhodes and Dakar Hilton (absent) are excited to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave. PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

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26 Min 6 Fog then sunny

Wangaratta 17.2 mm 17.2 mm

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Oh, what a bewdy

By SHANE DOUTHIE

WE’RE used to the occasional freaky home-grown vegetable story but not often do eggplants get a mention - until now.

Experienced Wangaratta home gardener Mario Caligiuri (pictured left) was extremely proud of this giant aubergine, one of two growing in his Wangaratta backyard which had surpassed all previous efforts.

After allowing The Chronicle to capture the fruit on the plant for posterity, Mario picked it ready to turn into one of his favourite meals, and generously picked the slightly smaller brother for the photographer as a thankyou.

The larger eggplant measured 200mm long with a girth of 355mm and weighed just under 1kg (900gms).

“I like to cook (fry) it, peel and slice like chips, and I do the same with some potatoes and add a bit of onion,” Mario said.

“Make sure you fry them separately, then you can mix them up.

“Add some roughly cut up tomatoes (home-grown of course) and there you have it.”

It has been a stop-start for most backyard farmers, including Mario, with the topsy turvy weather conditions.

“But I also had a good season with my basil,” he said.

Kokoda scholarships

TWO of the Wangaratta RSL Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship winners of 2024 have been presented with their certificates of scholarship recently.

John Blake of Galen College received his award from RSL vice president John Bailey at a school assembly recently while Makenzie Clark of Cathedral College received her award from RSL committee member Craig Iskov.

Hayden Currie from Wangaratta High School will receive his award at his school’s AN-

ZAC service in April.

“The Wangaratta community should be very proud of these young people who are prepared to step up and challenge themselves to a grueling but rewarding trek along the Kokoda Trail, where many young district men found themselves in 1942, fighting and dying in a beautiful but hostile environment on Australia’s doorstep,” Mr Iskov said.

”We now see last year’s winners, Zoe Baguley, Hugh Canning and Ella Kidd, demonstrating their personal growth,

leadership and commitment in their roles in families, schools, sport and the local community.

“Zoe, Hugh and Ella also continue to contribute to the scholarship and are offering support and advice to the new group as they move into a rigorous training regime in preparation for their Kokoda trek in early July.

“The 2024 Bob Iskov Kokoda trek will deliver the same challenges and opportunities to John, Hayden and Makenzie.”

Mr Iskov said just as the community supported the service

men and women throughout WW2, we now rely on the support of local people as the Kokoda Scholarships are funded by donations.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to invest in local young people developing their potential within our community.”

Or as Bob Iskov regularly said, ‘Having a go”.

If any individual or business would like to support the Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship contact the RSL at kokoda@wangarattarsl.org.au.

PASSPORT TO THE PAST: Craig Iskov presents the Wangaratta RSL Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship certificate to Makenzie Clark.

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: John Bailey presents John Blake with his Wangaratta RSL Bob Iskov Kokoda Scholarship certificate.

Eggs-ellent Easter kick-start

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

HUNDREDS of people have already registered for Thursday’s OBrien Real Estate Joyce Community Easter Egg Hunt, which will again raise funds for the Northeast Health Wangaratta paediatric unit.

“It’s starting to build up as a real conversation around town, as people get ready for Easter,” Rebecca Joyce from OBrien Real Estate Joyce said.

“We’ve heard of a lot of families who are planning to bring along their picnic blankets and make a night of it.”

The event will be held at Barr Reserve 2 Oval between 4pm and 7pm on Thursday, March 28, with the hunt - offering 500kg of chocolate eggs - to begin at 6pm.

Hunting baskets will be provided to ensure everyone gets an equal amount and no-one misses out. Big W has also donated 200 sets of bunny ears, which will go to the first hunters on the scene.

There will be a host of local food vendors on hand to cater for snacks and the evening meal, or families are welcome bring their own.

The evening will feature activities including laser tag, rock climbing, facepainting, giant games, a giant slide and a jumping castle.

Live music, and dancing displays from Pulsate Dance Force will add to the entertainment, which has become a great community event over the last four

years, and the perfect leadin to the Easter weekend. Registration is a must for the hunt, with all funds raised from the $5-per-person entry fee going to the

paediatric unit.

The 2023 Easter Egg Hunt funded the purchase of an IStat machine for NHW, which provides an almost instant reading on

a patient’s blood analysis, enabling prompt and sometimes life-saving treatments and interventions.

“It’s had a massive impact; when we have a really sick child on the ward, it’s our go-to, because you get a result straight away and can start treatment,” NHW clinical nurse specialist Bree McClen said.

She said funds raised through this year’s egg hunt would potentially be directed to more equipment which is on the unit’s wish list, or some artwork to brighten the surrounds.

“This event is so wonderful, and we’re so extremely grateful for our generous community when they come together, and to OBrien Real Estate Joyce for staging the event.

“Extra funding for anything in our ward is so welcome.”

To register for the Easter egg hunt, visit https:// obrienrealestatejoyce.typeform.com/egghunt2024, or scan the QR code on the O’Brien Real Estate Joyce Facebook page.

On the day, keep an eye out for people in green vests at Barr Reserve Oval 2, who will be able to assist with check-in arrangements. Cash is preferred for check-in, but EFTPOS will be available.

EVERY BUNNY BENEFITS: OBrien Real Estate Joyce’s Stacey Justice (left) and Peter Joyce (right) visited the Northeast Health Wangaratta paediatric unit this week, along with the Easter Bunny, to catch up with nurses Jannae Ryan, Hayley Currie, Bree McClen and Bridie Nixon, and patient Murphy McNally, ahead of the community Easter egg hunt to be held on Thursday, March 28. The event raises funds for the NHW paediatric unit.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

It’s so cool to Ride2School

By ANITA MCPHERSON

STUDENTS at St Patrick’s Primary School are among 350,000 across the country who’ll be participating in national Ride2School Day today.

House leaders at St Patrick’s are promoting research that shows that students who choose an active way to get to school like riding or walking, are more focused than those that are driven, and that leaving the car at home also contributes to a more sustainable future.

RoadSafe North East (RSNE) supports this philosophy, adding that finding the safest ‘active travel’ route was a top priority for many schools across the region in the lead-up to national Ride2School Day.

To raise awareness of this fun and healthy active travel option, RSNE encouraged parents to leave the car at home and help students plan how to safely ride, walk, scoot or skate to school on Ride2School Day.

RSNE spokesperson, Anne Ford, said the journey to and from school can make a significant contribution to the one hour per day of moderate physical exercise recommended for young people.

She said riding, scooting and walking to and from school helps children get the physical activity they need

each day to be healthy and can kick-start healthy habits to set them up for a lifetime.

“We would love to see more families in the rural city riding together to

school,” she said.

“It’s a great way to exercise independence and improve their knowledge of the bike path and the road environment.

“However, there are many factors such as safety concerns, lack of skills and facilities preventing, or discouraging some students from riding to school.

“With the support of the RSNE’s Ride2School program we want to unearth and reduce these barriers and build a bike culture where active travel is valued,

and the importance it plays in a student’s life, understood.”

Through its Bike Education program, RSNE is delivering important bike skills to students across the rural city and supporting efforts to map a safe route to school.

The organisation wants to allay parents’ safety concerns and show that riding to school is an easy, fun and rewarding activity.

“We would like to encourage schools across the Rural City of Wangaratta, to recognise the importance and benefits of student active travel and jump onboard the Ride2School program,” Ms Ford said.

“A school community where students are empowered to ride, walk, scoot or skate to and from school improving their levels of physical activity, delivers so many benefits – health, social, environmental and economic.

“Improved concentration and alertness in class; reduced traffic congestion around the school and the positive impact on the health of an individual, are just some of the benefits of adopting an active travel program, such as Ride2School.”

St Patrick’s Primary School is among 3000 schools across Australia participating in the annual campaign.

READY TO RIDE: St Patrick’s Primary School houseleaders Charlie Ackerly, Patrick Hunter and Evie Fischer (pictured) were well prepared for Ride2School day today and encouraged others to walk, ride, scoot or skate to school, to promote physical health and wellbeing.

Brigades are ready for round two of state championships

The buzz around Shepparton remains, as a new batch of participants, supporters and families are set to return to Mooroopna Recreation Reserve across the weekend, March 23 and 24, to close out the competition.

The first weekend of the championships was a success, with Melton A taking home the title of Urban Junior Champions.

Final results can be found on the VFBV website.

CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook was pleased to see the excitement of the eager youngsters over the weekend and looks forward to seeing the competition continue to reach new heights.

“The championships are an important and much-loved event on the CFA calendar and go a long way to build and grow the future of the organisation and our next generation of firefighters,” Garry said.

“For our seniors, it’s an opportunity to catch up with olds friends, meet new ones, go head-to-head and both develop and showcase their firefighting skills.

“For us, it’s also a chance to give back to our regional and rural communities that have had a challenging few years impacted by devastating floods and fire.

“The people in these areas are the

heart and soul of CFA, and we are proud that we can support a regional community like Mooroopna once again and thank all the competitors, families, officials and support staff who make it happen.”

This weekend will see more than

45 brigades compete, while we welcome a new women’s team from District 9 and District 27 that has been training for months.

The annual torchlight procession,

a tradition firmly embedded in the championships, will return on Saturday night, however with a more sustainable and modernised torch.

Long-time championships stalwart Peter Davis said this year CFA has sourced custom-built LED-powered aluminium lanterns which resemble the traditional torches and mimic the naked flame.

Up until 2024 the torches had a naked flamed that were fuelled by

kerosene, however, international research had determined that kerosene can cause significant health issues and adversely impact the environment.

The torchlight procession will take place following the competition on Saturday from 8pm near Mooroopna Recreation Reserve.

For more information on the championships, visit www.cfa.vic. gov.au/champs.

Ladies’ day to support Timor Leste

ENJOY a ladies’ day out for a great cause on Sunday, during a Galen Catholic College fundraiser aimed at assisting communities in Timor Leste.

Eight year 11 students and four staff members from Galen will head to Timor Leste in April for an immersion experience which will see them visit schools to build relationships with students and staff.

In the lead-up to next month’s trip, the group has been conducting a fundraising raffle, and all proceeds from Sunday’s ladies’ day at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway will also go to the communities in Timor Leste.

Sunday’s event runs from 2pm to 5pm, with the $60 tickets including a welcome drink on arrival, finger food, prizes including the major raffle, and live entertainment by local singer Antonia Maher.

To book your tickets to the ladies’ day out event, visit www.eventbrite.com. au/e/840023712537.

TAKE THAT: Wangaratta CFA’s Evy Bongers hits the first target with Scarlett McAndrew ready to connect the two hoses.

Positive habits lead to healthier lifestyles

POSITIVE reinforcement of healthy habits and behaviours is the job of every good parent in the upbringing of their children.

It helps shape their children’s values in the way they lead their life in their infant and adolescent years to then go on to become respectful and healthy adults.

Healthy eating and exercise has been at the forefront of school policies and curriculum for a number of years, including the banning of unhealthy foods at the canteen that generations before would have indulged in.

A major problem in Australian society are the obesity rates, with 68 per cent of Victorian adults either overweight (36.6pc) or obese (31.5pc).

A quarter of children aged 2–17 years are overweight or obese.

Initiatives like Ride to School Day on Friday encourages kids to get their bikes out of the garage and exercise.

Other programs that schools offer include walking, running and swimming.

But it’s what happens after these special days have gone that is important.

It’s too easy for parents to let their children or teenagers spend hours on end playing on gaming consoles or chatting to their friends on digital devices.

With fear of sounding old, people who grew up before the technology generation used to get on their bikes and ride around to their mate’s house for a catch up.

They used to have sport and activity ingrained into their psyche.

It’s important that children learn from a young age, the benefits of healthy eating and exercise, but it’s just as important for adults to do as they say as mortality rates are continuing to rise with the increasing prevalence of chronic disease caused by obesity.

FACEBOOK users commented on whether Australia should look to nuclear power as an alternative source of energy.

• Jill Lindquist: I’d like to know where the supporters a nuclear non solution think they could build a reactor? No-one would want one in their back yard would they?

• Bobby Boss: Absolutely, should have been done years ago

• Cam Bush: Yes duh

• Charles Branstom: Is it

time for Australia to become a nuclear powerhouse? It is according to Peter Dutton. But experts say the window for going nuclear has long passed. As Emeritus Professor Ian Lowe says “Nuclear power doesn’t make economic sense. It doesn’t make energy sense. It doesn’t make political sense.”Nuclear energy was being used as a Trojan horse by fossil FOOL producers to keep oil, gas and coal in the energy mix for longer.

Libraries a place to learn, create, belong

VICTORIA has 283 public libraries which open for 12,324 hours each week, they have 20.2 million visitors every year and 1.95 million Victorians are members of their local library.

Where else can you find such a service that is free and open to everyone in the community, the ultimate in community building.

Our local library is such a place.

A place to learn, create and belong, everything they offer is free; they are there for us, all of us.

But now there is growing speculation the State Government wants to cut funding and force libraries to cut services and staff and resources.

Voice your concern to our local MP Tim McCurdy about government cuts to funding of public libraries in Victoria.

Claire Russell, Wangaratta

No right of appeal is loss of democracy

THE Victorian State government has announced that it is fast tracking renewables and stopping communities from going to VCAT.

First the State Government took away the decision-making and approval for large scale renewables from local councils.

This means local communities and individuals are left with all the work to respond to large scale solar and battery proposals.

Now the State Government is stopping communities and individuals from their right of appeal by stopping them from going to VCAT.

Once the projects are approved all the oversight of the conditions goes back to the local councils.

Is it democratic to stop the right of appeal?

Taking away citizens’ rights happens in authoritarian regimes.

Would this happen if for example nuclear power infrastructure was being spread across the rural landscape?

Sarah Minifie, Meadow Creek

Parliament must pass vaping legislation

THE AMA welcomes the introduction of draft laws into parliament yesterday that

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

• Cameron Wilson: With new gen 4 SMRs just around the corner it’s a no brainer

• Takeshi Covac: No, for the price of rolling out a single reactor(and we would need several) and the time till it’s online we could be 100% renewables and exporting energy. On going running costs of nuclear is super expensive versus renewables. And it’s not even a reactor that’s the goal, it’s a waste dump that comes with it, that’s where

the super profits are, not in generation but in storage of the worlds waste. The biggest risk to a disaster is the “if you don’t know, vote no” crowd who will believe anything and not bother to inform themselves. Also, the turn around from concept to new product to market is orders of magnitude faster with solar with new products.

• Nathan Andrew: Yes instead wasting time and money on failures.

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

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will tackle the dangerous and growing habit of vaping and protect younger generations.

I urged all MPs to support the legislation, which includes a ban on the domestic manufacture, supply, advertising and commercial possession of non-therapeutic vapes.

The significant rise of vapes in recent years is a catastrophic health concern, with children becoming addicted to nicotine and many young Australians moving on to cigarettes after vaping.

This is a national health crisis that must be stopped in its tracks, and the only way to do that is to stop the retail sale of vapes and give people the help they need to kick this dangerous habit by moving to a prescription only model.

The AMA has long advocated for restrictions on vaping.

Substances commonly found in these products include diacetyl, which damages small passageways in the lungs, formaldehyde, which is known to contribute to lung and heart diseases, and acrolein, which is often used as a weed killer.

There is also strong evidence to show young people who vape are three times more likely to go on to take up smoking.

Big tobacco profits from the misery of others and uses every trick in the book to hook young kids on vapes.

Professor Steve Robson, AMA president

POLL RESULTS

NUCLEAR ENERGY

Should Australia look to nuclear power as an alternative source of energy?

Yes 37 No 23

THIS WEEK

60

votes to yesterdaynoon

Should professional sport be played on Good Friday?

OLD FRIENDS: Barbara Scanlan and Diana Szeligiewigz were excited to see each other for the first time in decades at the St Joseph’s College Wangaratta 60-year reunion last Friday. See page 31 for more photos.

FACEBOOK users this week commented on police and council urging motorists to slow down after several reports of near misses in school zones.

• Alexis Baillie: Edwards street is now extremely dangerous. With hoons speeding up and down and trucks and air brakes. This is all dangerous. Coming out of driveways and people don’t slow down. Stay safe at the crossing.

• Cindy Knight: Yeap white

street is terrible with cars not driving at 40 and not caring about others around them. We all have places to go.

Facebook users also commented on more than 100 cars descending on Apex Park last Sunday for the All GM Day.

• Suzanne Lynch: It was a great show and the organisers did a fantastic job.

• Steve Davies: Well done buddy, car looks great.

Facebook users also commented on Galen

josied4

Follow

Wangaratta Marathon & Fun Run 10km run completed. Well done to everyone involved!! Well done to our Runners in Wangaratta.

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

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Catholic College student Grace Jenkins taking out the Zonta Club of Wangaratta’s Young Women in Public Affairs Award for 2024.

• Kelly Timms:

Congratulations Grace!

• Joelene Mitchell: Gemma Duursma thanks Gemma. Grace was thrilled to receive this award.

• Mandie Miles:

Congratulations beautiful Grace, we are so proud xxx

• Mic Web: Well done Grace!! But I know my homework club

commendation would be up there with this award.

• Mim Timms: So good Grace!

• Lilly Gephart:

Congratulations Grace. Facebook users also commented on 125 bikes riding through Wangaratta for the annual Black Dog Ride to raise awareness for mental health.

• Denise Gay: I couldn’t believe how many bikes were at Apex Park. Well done to everyone involved.

X USERS this week tweeted about, Australian places with Indigenous names, Darcy Wilson making his AFL debut and the upcoming Off-Grid Living Festival.

Ari Steele @atseawithari

I like the Aboriginal names haha, loads of places already have Aboriginal names you’re just conditioned to them. Wollongabba, Geelong, Wangaratta, Wollongong, Canberra, Mandurah, Toowoomba, Ballarat the list goes on and on.

Dona McQueen @DonaMcqueen

Our Wangaratta boy Darcy Wilson is making an impression in his first game with AFL. Kicked a goal which was pretty awesome.

Denis Ginnivan @dginnivan

This is what’s happening! A fabulous event with an expanded electrification expo site. http://offgridevent. com.au. At Chiltern mid-way Hume Freeway between Wangaratta and Wodonga. Rail to Chiltern from Melb and Syd. Air connect to Albury.

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

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

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Station (Victoria) 1991

Wangaratta

Back to business as a national finalist

By BAILEY ZIMMERMAN

LOCAL Rachel York continues to thrive through adversity as her small furnishing business Amour De La Maison was nominated as a national award finalist for the second year running.

Through all her success in the past year, Ms York has persevered through ongoing battles with ovarian cancer in the past two years, while father and business partner John McCormack has also gone through his own cancer battles.

Ms York said she had an unfortunate setback with her and her father’s health in late December last year, and when the nomination arrived, it belatedly gave her a burst of inspiration.

“When the nomination came through, I probably wasn’t at the right place to see it,” she said.

“I was overcome with the feeling of being told I wasn’t so much in remission as what I thought, it was sort of bittersweet.

“I said to Dad if we got nominated again this year we’d go together, but he couldn’t come because of his health.

“It was one of those things where I had to take a couple of days to think about it be-

fore I was thinking that this [the nomination] was a really positive thing.”

Ms York’s business was nominated as a finalist for the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards last year, but has this time been nominated for the overall Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

The overall small business awards receive more than double the entries the women’s small business awards gather in Rachel’s Home and Garden Improvement category alone.

Ms York said after initially thinking she was nominated for the same award; she was even more blown away by the recognition of making a finalist pool of 14 businesses out of 5500 nominations.

“Having 5500 entries for the award category was huge in itself, let alone being Australia wide,” she said.

Since last year, the predominantly online business operating out of a small studio in Kerr Street has continued to sell its furniture, décor and vintage prints to all parts of Australia including Darwin, Rockhampton, Alice Springs and all across the North East.

The local anesthetic nurse said she takes a lot of inspiration from what people sug-

gest at local markets and has received plenty of support.

“I’ve found this year I’ve had people who are running markets actually contact me, rather than me contacting them,” she said.

“I think listening to what feedback has been from clients and people who we’ve met along the way is what makes us different from everyone else.”

The small business entrepreneur said the love and passion from the community towards her small business hobby is what drives her in continual pursuing her dream venture.

“I’ve continued to do what I love throughout all of my chemotherapy, radiation and everything like that, and I still have people who love what I do,” she said.

“People come up to me at markets and say how they follow me on social media and love what I do, which still blows me away.

“It’s a huge deal to go to this thing, the tickets alone are $385 each; it’s a big commitment for a lady who just owns a business in North East Victoria.”

The awards’ presentation will be held at Darling Harbour, Sydney, on April 13 where Ms York will attend with her husband John.

More volunteers needed for Pangerang Community Hub

PANGERANGCommunityHubislookingfor volunteerstosupporttheir growingprogramsacross theregion.

Theorganisationwill matchvolunteerstoroles thatsuitstheirinterest, suchassupportingcooking programsorbarbecues,

childcareorplaygroup, administration,community mealsoreventsorinother ways,andthetimecommittedisentirelyuptothe volunteer.

Withthenewmobilehub thereareopportunities inWangarattaandacross themunicipalityincluding

Whorouly,Eldorado,Glenrowan,Whitfield,Cheshunt, EvertonandTarrawingee. Volunteerinvolvementis soughtfromeachtownship tosupportmoreactivities andeventsintheregion. Formoreinformationcall 57213813oremailcoordinator@pangerang.org.au.

Gym’s team effort makes a successful ride for cancer

M&MX-TremeStudio exceededtheirexpectations whentheytookpartinthe SunshineRideonMarch15 andMarch16.

TheSunshineRidewasa 24-hourstationarybikeride toraisemoneyandawarenessfortheAlburyWodonga RegionalCancerCentreTrust Fund.

M&MX-TremeStudioraised $3245,surpassingtheirgoal of$3000

Theyweretheonlyteam inWangarattatotakepartin theride,andownerMelPaul saidshewasthrilledbythe generosityofthecommunity, especiallyonshortnotice.

“Weprettymuchdecided totakepartonlyaweekbeforeitcommenced,”shesaid.

“Iwassurprisedbyhow muchsupportwegotinthat oneweek.

“It’snicetoseeeveryonein oursmalltowngetinvolved.”

MsPaulsaidhermain motivationfortakingpartin theridewasherauntywhois currentlyundergoingcancer treatmentinAlburyWodonga, andherloveforthelocalcommunity.

“AlburyWodongaisonly a45-minutedrivefromhere andsomanypeoplefrom Wangarattadotravelupand downthatfreewaytogetto thecentresoit’snicethat themoneygoessomewhere local,”shesaid. Ridersparticipatedinthe rideatallhoursoftheday, withbothmembersandnonmembersofthegymgetting involved.

“Wehadridersthatwould doacoupleofhoursthen wouldcomebackthenextday anddoonehour,wealways

hadsomeoneonthehour,”Ms Paulsaid.

“Ithinkitreallywasateam effortforallmymembersand non-members.

“Thepeoplewhodidthe twointhemorningtheywere myheroes.”

Alongsidetheride,they hadplentyofwaterandfood availablefortheridersaswell asentertainment,withriders beingabletochoosewhat playedontheTVandlive streamstotheotherstudios inAlbury.

“Throughthelivestreams, youfeltconnectedtothe gymsinAlburyWodonga,” shesaid.

Thisyear,alltheteams combinedraised$117,000 fortheAlburyWodongaRegionalCancerCentreTrust Fund,beatinglastyear’s totalof$113,000.

FEELS LIKE HOME: Rachel York (left) and her right hand man (and father), John McCormack have been blown away to have their small business, Amour De La Maison named as an Australian Small Business Champion Awards finalist.

PHOTO:KurtHickling

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Mike Paul, Vicki Patrick and Mel Paul helped raise awareness for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund.

Perfect time to head to Off-Grid Living Festival

WITH energy bills on the rise, an unstable economy, and the climate crisis now in the forefront of the media, everyday people are seeking out a new and better way of living. Going off-grid, futureproofing, self-sufficiency and being sustainable used to be ‘alternative’ phases, but are now become part of the everyday vernacular.

With the sixth Off-Grid Living Festival just around the corner on April 6 and 7, people are getting excited about this great opportunity to find practical solutions and products, learn new skills to help achieve this dream lifestyle and connection with a like-minded community.

With the festival outgrowing its original location it has now moved to a larger outdoor venue at Chiltern.

As they take over the Old Racecourse Reserve, the township will be transformed into a hub of sustainable activity for one weekend.

Attracting thousands of people from all over the country, from off-grid veterans to those who are just starting to make the change, there’s something for everyone.

With tickets sold as far as Western Australia and Darwin it’s easy to see just how sought-after these topics are and how unique this event is.

The festival covers everything from the latest in renewable energy and electric transport for those who are interested in hightech solutions, through to back-to-

EVERYTHING YOU NEED: All signs point to The Off-Grid Living Festival at Chiltern on April 6 and 7 from 9am-5pm daily.

basics skills for those looking to live a low impact life of simplicity.

One of the unique aspects of this festival is its ability to bring together the best from the past, present, and even a glimpse into the future.

With no pre-defined expectation of what ‘off-grid living’ must be, the event makes people feel welcome to approach these topics from any point of view.

At this event people don’t just talk about the problems, they of-

fer practical and achievable solutions in many formats.

This is an interactive weekend with seven presentation stages featuring expert speakers, over 100 workshops and live demonstrations, 300 friendly exhibitors who are open to chatting about their products, lifestyles and skills and plenty of great food, entertainment and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

By combining education and

entertainment this event appeals to people from all-walks of life and empowers them to take their energy needs into their own hands, transition to sustainable lifestyles, build self-sufficiency skills and get off the grid.

The Off-Grid Living Festival will be held on April 6 and 7 from 9am5pm daily at Chiltern Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, Chiltern.

For more information visit www.offgridevent.com.au.

Political funding at state elections under review

By STEVE KELLY

EXPENDITUREcapsof$100,000willbeintroducedforthirdpartyelectioncampaigners andassociatedentitiesinoneofthemeasures suggestedtoleveltheplayingfieldforcandidatesinVictorianstateelections.

AnindependentElectoralReviewExpert Panel’sreportrecommendationsintopoliticalfinancelawscoveredthegovernanceof politicalfundinganddonationdisclosureand reporting.

Statedonationcapsandrestrictionswere partofthereviewandthisinvolvesacapon theamountthatacandidateoranMPmay contributetotheirownelectioncampaign.

Undertherecommendations,thevalue ofthecapperelectionshouldbeequalto50 timesthevalueofthegeneralcaporotherwiseadvisedbytheindependentlegaladvice providedbytheVictorianGovernment.

Disclosureofthemoneymustoccurifitis equaltoorabove$4670forthe2023-24year.

ElectoralCommissionerSvenBluemmel welcomedthefindingsandsaidtheVECsupportsthepanel’srecommendationsonthe operationofVictoria’slawsgoverningpolitical funding,anddonationdisclosureandreporting,whichhavebeeninplacesince2018.

“Theserecommendationslargelyecho thoseinourownsubmissionandaimtomake Victoria’spoliticalfundinganddonationlaws simplerandmoreaccessible,especiallyfor first-timepartiesorcandidates,”hesaid.

“WelookforwardtotheStateGovernment’sresponsetothereportandtherealisationoftherecommendationsaheadofthe nextstateelectioninNovember2026.”

Thepanel’sreportcanbefoundonthe

VictorianParliamentwebsite:Tabledpaper 8066-ReportonVictoria’slawsonpolitical financeandelectronicassistedvoting(parliament.vic.gov.au).

a Healthy Workforce!

NEMA Harmony Day in Batchelor’s Green

NORTH East Multicultural Association (NEMA) will hold a Harmony Day event in Batchelor’s Green tomorrow from 11am to 2pm.

There will be dance, music and singing from a range of cultures, with the Wangaratta Pipe Band to play, the Central Victorian Lion Team to parade from 11.45am, plus food vans, a sausage sizzle, presentations by emergency services and lots of entertainment for children.

Energy saving session for renters

THE Rural City of Wangaratta will present an information session on energy saving ideas for renters at the Wangaratta Library on Saturday morning from 10.30am to 11.30am.

Join Lindsey Pettifer from Sustainability Victoria to learn about how to be more energy efficient as a renter and reduce household energy bills with tips on draught checking, using water efficiently, understanding your appliances and their energy efficiencies.

Register now at events.humanitix.com/lowcost-energy-saving-101-for-renters

Ronan Holdsworth art exhibition

AN exhibition by local artist Ronan Holdsworth is on at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

The exhibition delves into the intersection of tradition and innovation within Ronan’s artistic practice through the medium of acrylic paints and inks, on handmade paper, canvas and art board.

See the collection today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm at the gallery in the laneway off Murphy Street, with entry free.

Wangaratta community market

THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.

There is a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.

Stalls are available for $25 each (no bookings required) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

Return of Benalla Street Art Festival

THE 2024 Benalla Street Art Festival has returned to the street art capital of regional Victoria, transforming Benalla walls and laneways into a vibrant alfresco gallery until Thursday, March 28.

Featuring more than 15 artists including Australian and international talents, the 2024 Benalla Street Art Festival is curated by Eddie Zammit and supported by Benalla Rural City and the Victorian Government.

Mayor Cr Danny Claridge said he was delighted to welcome the return of the refreshed street art festival to Benalla, confirming the

artist line-up for this year’s event featured new and emerging talents and several accomplished and worldrenowned artists.

“Our city streets and lanes will be abuzz with colour and movement in the week-long celebration, that will include immersive art experiences, guided street art tours, exhibitions, artist talks, street art cinema, and a central Festival hub with live music and visitor servicing,” he said.

The confirmed artists are Tim Bowtell, David Bromley, Buff Diss, Melanie Caple, Tommy Day, DXTR, Lisa King, David Lee Pereira,

In Grief exhibition at Wangaratta gallery

AN exhibition called In Grief which brings together work by artists Maissa Alameddine and Emily McIntosh, who together examine the multifaceted layers of trauma, displacement, loss and the complexities of grief, is being held at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. Through performance, glass and installation, both artists produce works that pay homage to past traumas, loss and sorrow that through the processes of making and production act as both memorials, and a way to preserve memories.

See it at the gallery until April 21.

Galen Ladies’ Day Out on Sunday

A LADIES’ day out will be held on Sunday to raise funds to assist communities in Timor Leste, as Galen Catholic College students and staff prepare for an immersion experience in the country next month.

It will be held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway from 2pm to 5pm, with all proceeds going to this important cause.

The event runs from 2pm to 5pm and tickets are $60 which includes a welcome drink on arrival, finger food, prizes including the major raffle, and live entertainment by local singer Antonia Maher and they can be purchased via Eventbrite.

Minna Leunig, Merda, Travis Price, REKA, Sofles, Amanda Valdes and Neryl Walker.

“Iconic events such as the Street Art Festival are only made possible thanks to the tireless work and commitment of our sponsors and supporters, the wider community and efforts from local businesses and volunteers,” Cr Claridge said.

The refreshed Benalla Street Art Festival 2024 runs from March 21 to March 28, supported by the Victorian Government through its Regional Events Fund, with an official program, map and more available at benallastreetartfestival.com.au.

Textiles celebrated in Greaves’ exhibition

THE work of well-known local textile enthusiast Marian Greaves is being celebrated in a free exhibition in the Bainz Gallery at Wangaratta Library.

Called “Subtle Stitch - A Marian Greaves Retrospective”, it includes of wide range of pieces created by the artist over the years which reflect her unique style and interests, particularly skilled textile renditions of trees and landscapes.

Craft in Milawa Hall

THE Milawa Craft Market will be held in the Milawa Hall on Saturday from 9am until 12pm. Browse a variety of stalls showcasing the work of local creators with all welcome.

Whorouly Whole Town Garage Sale

INNER Wheel Club of Whorouly is holding a Whole Town Garage Sale on Saturday, March 30 from 8:00am to 1pm.

There will be lots of great items for sale including furniture, books, household items, jams, toys and much more.

Already six properties including homes and sheds will be open and five stalls have been booked for Church Street Whorouly.

It’s not too late to register your home garage sale for March 30, cost is just $10, which covers advertising, map and flags (Flags are provided to indicate those homes participating).

You can also register a site at Whorouly Library Hall for

COME ONE COME ALL: There will be plenty of bargains at the Whorouly Whole of Town Garage Sale on March 30.

$5, for a Car boot Sale, or Bric-a-Brac table.

All homes participating will be included in a map provided to our prospective buyers for a gold coin donation, these maps will be available at Whorouly Library Hall from 8:00am on the day.

Please contact Glenys Mc-

Namara on 0427 271 207 or Filomena Harrington @ iiw. au.whorouly@gmail.com for a registration form.

Please collect a map that will be available at the Whorouly Library Hall for a gold coin donation from 8:00am on Saturday, March 30 to begin your shopping trip.

Dance Party rocks it helping women

IN a remarkable display of solidarity and celebration, Friday nights Women’s Dance Party Fundraiser, organised by Brooke Winzer and Jenny Chivers was a massive success.

It left behind not just a trail of joy but a significant contribution of $3931 to support the critical work of the Centre Against Violence (CAV).

Only one month ago, Brooke Winzer and Jenny Chivers decided to create more than just an ordinary dance party.

They imagined an event that would honour women of all ages, celebrating their strength and resilience, while also raising funds to aid those in crisis situations.

Their vision came to life on Friday night, as 145 women from across the community gathered to dance, laugh, and support one another at the Wangaratta Gateway Hotel.

The evening was filled with infectious energy, with attendees dancing joyously

from the first song to the last.

Reflecting on the event, Ms Chivers said the night was more than just a dance party.

“It was so amazing to see women from different generations, 18 to 85, mothers and daughters, friends from all areas of our community coming together on the dancefloor and just having a wonderful time,” she said.

Ms Winzer said they had two goals for the event, both of which they achieved.

“One was to create the most fabulous dance party for local women,” she said.

“Our second goal was to show support for women facing challenges, to let them know they are not alone.”

The event not only raised vital funds but also inspired attendees to express their solidarity through letters of support to give out alongside gift vouchers to assist CAV’s clients in obtaining essentials.

CAV chief executive officer, Jaime Chubb, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.

“We cannot believe the generosity of this group of women, led by Brooke and Jenny,” she said.

“We know that many people of our community experience family and sexual violence.

“It’s events like this that send a message to our community that people are here to help them and support them.

“The money will go towards purchasing vouchers that we will be able to pass out to people who are going through one of the most difficult and challenging times of their lives.

The impact of the vouchers and messages of care is an incredible gift in an uncertain time.

“They will know these gifts have come from members of their community, and although they may never meet, it is an incredibly powerful message.”

FUNDRAISER SUCCESS: Brooke Winzer, Jaime Chubb and Jenny Chivers were thrilled by the support they received for their Women’s Dance Part Fundraiser.

IAN DAVIDSON

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

THERE are many interactions between

THERE are many complex interactions between plants and animals in nature.

One such example is known as mutualism – an ecological interaction between two or more species where each other benefits.

One such is known as mutualism – an two or more species where each other benefits

Here in North East Victoria, there are few better examples to illustrate this natural evolutionary process than the Painted Honey mistletoe plant.

Like the more well-known and common Mistletoebird, featured previously in this column, the Painted Honey has evolved over millennia to feed almost exclusively on the fruit from the parasitic plant,

Here in North East are examto illustrate this natural evolutionary process than the Painted Honeyeater and the mistletoe plant more and common featured in this column, Painted Honeyeater over millennia to feed almost exclusively on the fruit from the Mistletoe. there are numerous mistletoe eyeaters are known to consume the fruit of

Though there are numerous mistletoe species, Painted Honeyeaters are known to c the fruit of only five species.

To fulfil the of the mutualistic between the honeyeater and

To fulfil the requirement of the mutualistic relationship between the honey

the mistletoe, seeds within the fruits consumed by the bird are spread through their droppings The dispersed seeds that pass through the digestive tract of the honeyeater fall, or are wiped, on to branches of host trees and shrubs, typically eucalypts and wattles.

These seeds then germinate to initiate the life cycle of a new mistletoe plant, and so the process continues.

Further, the dense nature of mistletoe clumps provide birds with ideal nesting sites.

Obviously, mistletoe has an incredibly important role in the ecology of the Australian bush.

Mistletoe fruit then supplies

Mistletoe fruit then ongoing food sources not only for the Painted Honeyeater and Mistletoebird, but also for a range of other native birds and mammals.

And further to fruit resources, the foliage of mistletoe is a common diet for many species, and the flowers provide a rich and important nectar and pollen food source for many birds, mammals and insects.

Painted Honey nomadic and only occur in this region during spring and summer, coinciding with the fruiting period of our local

Their movements are somewhat irregular - in some years they might occur in good numbers, yet they may be completely absent in others.

the dense nature of mistletoe birds with ideal sites Obviously, mistletoe has an important role in the of the Australian bush Painted Honeyeaters are nomadic and occur in this and summer, with the period of our local mistletoes movements are somewhat occur in yet may be in others.

Contributing to their fluctuating occurrence, the species has now become incredibly

rare due to ongoing clearance of their habitat, especially in inland regions of New South Wales and Queensland. Upon their arrival in October, the males – which typically arrive a few weeks earlier than females - establish a breeding territory and are

rare due to clearance of their habitat, in inland regions of New South Wales and Queensland arrival in Octomales – which few weeks earlier - a CONVEYANCING & PROPERTY LAW P (03) 5721 5500 W WEBBLEGAL.COM.AU E info@webblegal.com.au

MA M D FOR MISTLETOE: E

With their con o tr t asting black, white and n gol o d pllumagge an a d promminnent t pink k beaak, the e Painted Hoone n yeat a er e is s on o e of f thhe e mo m st t disti t ncctive ve members s of f the e honeyeeatter r fammiily.

extremely vocal in the process - males flying about, often high into the air, emitting a loud and ringing ‘georgiegeorgie’ call They remain throughout summer and begin to head north at the begginning g of autumn WEBB LEGAL /RLTyrrellMLC @Rikkie-LeeTyrrellMLC RIKKIE-LEE TYRRELL MLC 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton Ph: (03) 4700 1787 rikkie-lee.tyrrell@parliament.vic.gov.au Authorised by Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MLC, 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton

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PHOTO: Ch Chris Tzaros (Birds s Buush and Bey e ond) )

The General on parade attracted big crowd

IT was all go for All GM Day 2024.

Despite the fairly warm weather, lots of General Motors vehicle owners and enthusiasts turned up at Apex Park Wangaratta on Sunday, March 10.

More than 215 General Motors vehicles were on display for visitors to inspect and appreciate.

GM owners travelled from all over Victoria, the ACT and Southern NSW to attend this yearly event presented by the Early Holden Car Club of Wangaratta (EHCC).

There were three Holden clubs from Melbourne in

attendance and a number of owners travelled here from Gippsland.

Thirty trophies were awarded including the Rural City of Wangaratta trophy for the Longest Distance Travelled which was presented by EHCC member Chris Hilli to Patrick Hogan from Canberra with his 1964 EH Holden Premier taxi.

The Wangaratta Early Holden Car Club organisers said it was a wonderful event and thanked RCOW and local businesses for their ongoing support in showcasing the Wangaratta region.

TRAVELLED:

North East Water secures industry top award

NORTH East Water (NEW) has taken out a prestigious water industry award, with senior water treatment specialist Dylan Hetherington named 2024 Victorian Operator of the Year.

Dylan was acknowledged with the award at the Water Industry Operators Association (WIOA) Victorian Water Industry Conference recently held in Bendigo.

He is based in Beechworth and is the lead coordinator for 20 water treatment plants and 16 staff across the corporation’s service area.

NEW general manager operations, John Day, said that Dylan’s commitment to ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable water to customers has earned him this prized accolade.

“Dylan has been with North East Water for 14 years, and his initiative, at-

tention to detail and operational expertise certainly make him a worthy winner of this award,” Mr Day said. “He has shown fantastic

leadership, not just in managing our people, but in automation and innovation projects.

“Dylan introduced artifi-

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cial intelligence modelling to predict treatment performance and asset failure, along with robotic cameras for pipeline inspections

and digital sound monitoring for water leak detection.

“All of these projects have resulted in cost savings that help to keep customer bills low.

“He has also shown extraordinary leadership in emergency management situations.

“In particularly, after a major landslide threatened the water supply to the township of Mt Beauty, Dylan led a team to install a temporary supply pipe and pump over the Christmas period to keep the town supplied with water.”

Adding to the tributes, NEW managing director Jo Murdoch extended her congratulations, highlighting Dylan’s dedication as a shining example of the high standards upheld at North East Water.

“Dylan’s achievement mirrors our commitment to excellence in providing essential water services to the community,” she said.

The award not only brings prestige and recognition to Dylan but also provides an opportunity for professional development and networking within the water industry when he joins the 2024 WIOA tour of New Zealand.

Dylan was joined at the awards ceremony by Corryong based operator Elle Hamilton who was nominated by North East Water for the Young Operator of the Year award.

“We celebrate both Dylan and Elle, and all of our exceptional operators who make great water right across our service region every day of the year,” Ms Murdoch said.

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD: Brock Mulroyan (Barwon Water) , Dylan Hetherington (North East Water), Jo Lim (CEO - VicWater), Wes Wilkie (Goulburn Valley Water) accepted awards at the WIOA Victorian Water Industry Conference.

FURTHEST

RCOW trophy winner Patrick Hogan from Canberra with Chris Hilli from EHCC.

◀ WORTH STOPPING FOR: Holden enthusiast checking out this beautiful 1976 GTS.

▲ YELLOW PERIL: The Yellow Peril owned by Wangaratta’s Lester Hilli was a crowd favourite. It’s an original Glenrowan Quarry work vehicle from when Lester worked there over many years.

A

Many took advantage of the complimentary drink to enjoy some champagne and chat about the performance with fellow theatre-lovers and the cast and crew after the show.

All eight performances of the world premiere of the play by local author Margaret Hickey sold out before the opening weekend closed, proving local

• Peter and Gillian Leonard.

• Clive and Marg Pullen.

• The joyful cast on the eve of the first show.

• Ron Webb and Maureen Adcock.

• Miranda and Vivian Spilva and Adrian Ridley.

• Simon Attard, Jo Pane and Luca Baricevic.

Fantastic community event

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

SEVERAL thousand people flocked to the Wangaratta Showgrounds to enjoy last Sunday’s Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run, presented by Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate events and to cheer on family members and friends.

North East Media CEO Edward Higgins was on hand to present winners with their prizes and said it was great to see so many locals taking part, along with statewide and interstate competitors.

“Overall it was a fantastic day with around 1080 entrants coming together to take part in this community event,” Mr Higgins said.

“I would like to thank the participants in all the events as well as their supporters who created an amazing atmosphere on the day.

“I would also like to thank all our volunteers and in particular our cyclists, the Wangaratta Lions Club, Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club, 1st Yarrunga Scouts, Wangaratta Girl Guides, Wangaratta Cycling Club, Pulsate Dance Force and Wangaratta Army Cadets.

“A special thanks also to our event partner Garry Nash and Co Real Estate, our event name sponsors RJ Sandersons and Associates public accountants, Wangaratta Engineering and Merriwa Industries.

“We also sincerely thank prize sponsors Brown Brothers, The Athlete’s Foot, Nu Fruit and Runly for their ongoing support, and members of the Wangaratta Chronicle staff who organised the event and volunteered their time in numerous ways to help make the day a success.

“The commitment from all of these individuals and businesses to this community event is really appreciated and without their support there is no way we could put on an

event of this calibre.”

Participation across the board was up on last year which Mr Higgins said was very pleasing.

“This is a great sign for events taking place across the North East,” he said.

“As well as all the local participants it was great to have so many runners and supporters from out of town visiting Wangaratta and helping to support the local economy.”

Garry Nash agreed and said it was

extremely pleasing to see the continued increase in participant numbers in the marathon and fun run events.

“The weather conditions were outstanding for all athletes, volunteers and family and friends who viewed the scenic runs from the track surrounds, and the later start in the year was also well received,” he said.

Although unable to personally attend this year, Mr Nash, together with directors Mike Noble and Cameron Meggs - who presented medallions

to competitors crossing the finishing line - were pleased to confirm another three year commitment as major sponsors of the event.

“The philosophy at GN&Co makes it easy for us to commit to an event such as this because it follows our business and personal values: it gets people moving and increases fitness, provides an opportunity for family and friends to participate and encourages team work; and engages with the entire community,” Mr Nash said.

“Feedback from the GN&Co team (14 crew and 10 participants) was how well the event was organised and run.

“When we take on an event such as this, there is a significant critical commitment in terms of those who provide marshalling, ride leaders, service clubs and volunteers and we thank everyone who was involved.

“An event of this size also requires financial contribution to be able to provide professional services such as for timing, insurances, traffic management and others.

“We thank all sponsors who contributed their support for an event that provides so much benefit to our community and distributes funds back charitable organisations.”

Photos from the 2024 event are available to view and order at the Wangaratta Chronicle office.

The 2025 event will be held on Sunday, March 16.

School delighted with Challenge victory

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

WANGARATTA Primary

School are the winners of the 2024 Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run 2km Primary School Challenge.

Sponsored by RJ Sanderson and Associates Pty Ltd, the school will receive $1000 and have the honour and excitement of displaying the perpetual trophy for the next 12 months.

Wangaratta Primary School principal Jacinta Kubeil said she was delighted by the school’s strong participation in the event.

“We were runner-up last year (to Milawa Primary School) and our staff and students were determined to have a big presence at this year’s event,” she said.

“As part of our preparations teacher Alex Smith held running club sessions every Wednesday morning at 8.30am before school over six weeks, for students to build their confidence and fitness.

“As a school this year we were also fundraising for the Heart Foundation, doing Jump Rope for Heart, so that assisted with physical exercise too.

“Around a third of our school’s 138 students, across all grade levels, participated, wearing the school uniforms, in the 2km Primary School Challenge, which was a fantastic effort.

“Our students have been so stoked with their efforts,

with many walking around the school wearing their medals all week.”

Ms Kubeil said many within the school community had embraced the “fantastic community event”, with teachers and families coming out in force to sup-

port participants.

Teacher Zoe Henschke was among them, and said the positivity was palpable.

“We are so proud of everyone’s efforts...it was a beautiful morning,” she said.

Students agreed, with grade six house leader Ryan

Van Der Poel saying he had enjoyed running around supporting the community, savouring the team spirit.

Grade four student Tyson Garlick said he’d liked “getting fit, running around with friends and having fun”, while fellow student Gema

Winn said it “was good to get together as a school” in the wider community.

For prep student Charlie Jones it was all about “having fun and being proud of the effort”, but admitted the free fruit was good too.

Ms Kubeil thanked RJ

Sanderson and Associates Pty Ltd for its sponsorship of the event and said the $1000 prize would be put into sporting equipment, with the school a definite starter for next year.

Justin Timms of RJ Sanderson & Associates Pty Ltd congratulated Wangaratta Primary School on the win, and all other schools and participants.

“Congratulations to the Wangaratta Chronicle and Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate for preparing such a wonderful day,” he said.

“It’s great to see the event encouraging so many locals to get out and be active, along with the many visitors it brings to the area.

“In particular it’s inspiring to see the kids so eager to get out there.

“We will continue to encourage the little athletes as they shape their futures.

A total of 31 primary schools throughout the North East entered this year’s challenge, with just over 200 competitors in the race.

Wangaratta West Primary School was runner-up, with Cathedral College Wangaratta third, Carraragarmungee/Everton Primary School fourth, St Bernard’s Wangaratta in fifth, Glenrowan Primary School sixth and St Patrick’s Wangaratta seventh.

Many more students, accompanied by parents and guardians, joined in the 2km ‘Chasers’ event.

PROUD AS PUNCH: Wangaratta Primary School teacher Zoe Henschke (right) with students proudly displaying their medallions for participation in the 2km Primary School Challenge, sponsored by RJ Sanderson and Associates. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

FAMILY EVENT: The ‘Chasers’ event allowed children and parents to run together over a 2km course on Sunday.

SUPPORTING THE CAUSE: Some of the 100 CAV team members who participated in the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run at the Wangaratta Showgrounds last Sunday.

Team effort by CAV runners earns a win and raises local awareness

WANGARATTA’S Centre Against Violence (CAV) has taken out the Community Team perpetual trophy and cash prize sponsored by Merriwa Industries.

In the largest team ever assembled in the event, CAV had 100 participants, four of whom did the 42km marathon, 10 did the 21km half marathon, another 29 team members did the 10km run and the remaining 57 members completed the 5km run.

The CAV team’ scored 954.8 points to finish well ahead of the other 15 teams, with defending champions Team Essex with 46 participants placing second with 508.8 points.

Bright Zipsters’ 17 participants scored 236.6 points to place third and Old Faithfulls Brew Bar with 28 participants scored 234.4 points in fourth position.

CAV CEO Jaime Chubb said she was overwhelmed with the support #JoinTeamCAV received over the weekend, with the event helping CAV raise awareness in the community.

“Family and sexual vio-

lence are among the most underreported crimes in Australia, and many do not know where to turn for help,” she said.

“Recent statistics confirm that approximately 40 per cent of people reported they would not know where to get support if they needed it.

“This affects people in our

local community, our family members, our neighbours and our colleagues.

“These people are not strangers; they are members of our own community whom we have the privilege to help.

“Therefore, we want to ensure that everyone knows how to find sup-

port if they need it.

“We want to shout from the rooftops, ‘we are here for you, you deserve to feel safe.”

Ms Chubb said last year CAV had partnered with Wangaratta Rovers’ under 18’ footballers and had a fabulous time promoting its message.

“However, with so many community members want-

ing to support us, this year we opened our team to the whole community, and the response was overwhelming,” she said.

‘Everyone received a free shirt branded with our ‘everyone deserves to feel safe’ message, company logo, and branding.

“With 199 people wearing our shirts on the day, you

couldn’t go anywhere without noticing us.

“We are thrilled to have one the community team award.

“However, if just one person reaches out for help because they now know we exist, then it has all been a true success.

“It is truly inspiring to have so many people want to join our team, and it's great to be able to share our message in such a positive, healthy, and enjoyable way.

“It’s also a way for people who are passionate about creating a safer community to share our message and make a difference.”

Ms Chubb said CAV was fortunate to have the support of 102.1 Edge FM, 1566 3NE, and the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre to help with our callout and messaging.

She also thanked the Wangaratta Chronicle, Garry Nash & Co and all other sponsors for helping put on “such a great event and we look forward to an even bigger team next year”.

Mature marathoners with plenty of drive to keep going

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER INSPIRING.

That’s the only way to describe three marathon runners in particular among the 80 strong field of competitors to complete the 42.2km course in perfect conditions at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Sunday morning.

Rick Patzold travelled more than 500kms from Albion Park near Wollongong to compete in what was his milestone 400th marathon/ultramarathon event.

“This is the third time I’ve competed in Wangaratta, with today’s event special as it’s my 392nd marathon, and my 400th event over a marathon or longer distance (eight ultra-marathons),” enthused the 59 year old as he received his medallion at the finish line from Mike Noble, director of event sponsor Garry Nash & Co Real Estate.

“I hold the Australian record for the most marathons (234)

completed within four hours.”

While Sunday wasn’t one of them - recording a time of 4.12.06) - the event provided the same motivation and satisfaction which drew Rick to start running marathons after watching the Sydney Olympics marathon test event in 2000.

“I do every event in honour of my Mum,” he said.

“As a 10 year old I saw her

endure three years of pain from cervical cancer, which she died from in 1978.

“Mum never made it to her 43rd year.

“For me I seek the pain in the marathon, knowing it will never be as severe as what Mum went through, and I set off on that 43rd kilometre each race which you never get to finish...like Mum never reached 43.”

Rick wasn’t the only

competitor in the field with remarkable records of achievement.

Greg Wilson, 71, of Kyneton, holds multiple Australian records, while 75-yearold American Gene Dykes, holds multiple world records at multiple distances.

The pair ran together for the first half of the marathon, but with a 70km ultramarathon event several days

earlier taking its toll on Gene, Greg kicked on a bit quicker in the second half to complete the event in a time of 3.44.18, with Gene coming in 12 minutes later in a time of 3.56.55.

Gene, who at age 70 ran three sub-three hour marathons, said he enjoyed his 171st marathon/ultramarathon event in Wangaratta.

So too Greg was enthusiastic with his praise for the

event, particularly the relatively flat and shady course.

“It was great to get to run with Gene too,” he said.

Greg is the reigning Australian Ultramarathon Running Association Male Runner of the Year - an honour earnt largely off setting six Australian records in the one race, including eclipsing Cliff Young’s longstanding 48 hour race record.

“I ran 287kms, surpassing Cliff’s 265kms, and also set a new record for the fastest 200kms at 28 hours,” he said.

“I just love to run.

“I like being fit and healthy and having a good quality of life, and I also enjoy the social aspect of marathons.”

While Greg’s days of doing a 2.35.00 marathon - and 30 marathons in under 30 hours before he was 30 - are long gone, he said he’ll continue challenging himself for many more years.

And that may include a return to Wangaratta.

MATES OUT FOR A RUN: King Valley footballers (from left) Joel Burchall, Hayden Sims, Franz Ott, Salvatore Bettio and Tom Stewart completed their first half-marathon as members of the CAV team. Hayden was the first home in one hour, 37 minutes and 44 seconds.

DOING IT TOGETHER: Glenn Clarke and Jacqui Hobbs completed the 5km fun run as members of the CAV team.

ALL DONE: Rick Patzold is congratulated by Mike Noble on completing the marathon - his 400th event.

AGE NO BARRIER: Greg Wilson (left) and American Gene Dykes both finished the marathon in under four hours.

Marathon

Male 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1LeeMARTIN2:43:53

2Anonymous2:47:32

3BraydonTURNER2:54:13

4HaydenEYNAUD3:18:49

5JamesCUTTING3:36:10

6JontyTOBIAS3:41:46

7CampbellHEWAT3:53:25

8JacksonGIBSON3:56:36

9JeddSIRIANNI4:02:31

10GusSIRIANNI4:02:32

11SeanPENNEFATHER4:24:35

12JamesACKERLY4:25:30

13AlexJIMENEZ4:25:47

14ThomasMALONE4:38:17

15SamuelBROOKS5:04:17

16AngusTHORNE5:35:40

Female 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1CaitlinEXELL4:36:17

Male 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1DaneVERWEY2:40:39

2CameronHALL2:44:52

3JaredBYRNE2:51:37

4SamGIBSON2:57:02

5JakeDUFFY2:59:04

6Anonymous3:11:59

7JamesBODYCOAT3:13:05

8TristanDANTONIO3:14:13

9HaydenRYAN3:19:26

10JamesBIRD3:27:21

11MichaelPATON3:28:52

12SatishKASULA3:28:59

13EdmundKWONG3:29:30

14BrendanWRAY3:32:02

15AlbertLOADER3:38:40

16MichaelFERRARO3:41:16

17ChristopherCOOMBS3:44:32

18SefTORQUIDO3:50:10

19Anonymous3:50:38

20RyanFARRELLY3:50:40

21MichaelSKINNER3:57:29

22DanielSTEEL3:58:39

23JoshuaKOVARIK3:59:41

24HenriqueCORREAMARTINS4:01:41

25DanielLUHRS4:03:13

26MikeSTONE4:36:03

Female 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1SamanthaSLOSS3:23:39

2LaurenSCOTT3:50:55

3Anonymous4:34:57

4BrittanyHOUSE4:40:02

Male 40-49

1AnthonyDIBATTISTA2:59:07

2DavidDALY3:12:38

3RicardoDACUNHA3:25:48

4JeffreyBASSETT3:30:22

5BrendanGAMZE3:37:13

6JohanesSAVIERI3:42:48

7DamianBUTTLER3:57:03

8DavidHEARNE4:01:38

9AlecHARRIS4:07:05

10RobertCRAIG4:47:57

11NicholasSANDERS5:37:22

1KevinMULLER3:04:00

2DenisOCALLAGHAN3:28:10

3PaulHODGES3:33:08

4RickPATZOLD4:12:06

5AndrewMCKENZIE4:17:22

6DavidELLIOTT4:32:21

7JohnKAPARELIS5:42:58

8PeterWHEELDON5:43:05

Female 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1CherylSYMONS4:07:18

2DebbieMCKENZIE4:08:08

3KatieGRACE4:31:48

4RobynFLETCHER4:56:07

Male 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1PeterBLACK4:03:38

2ChrisWATT4:05:11

3FraserFAITHFULL4:19:10

Male 70-79

PLACENAMETIME

1GregWILSON3:44:18

2GeneDYKES3:56:55

3DavidSTYLES4:53:03

4RaymondJAMES5:04:15

PatrickMALONEY1:23:03

TobyBROOKS1:49:37

Half Marathon

Male 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1RyanCLAXTON1:21:29

2MatthewDEANE1:27:18

3HaydenSMITH1:36:22

4WilliamSHANNON1:37:18

5LachyBOYLE1:38:06

6BeauSMITH1:38:10

7HamishVALLANCE1:38:48

8WilliamDOUGLAS1:39:47

9MackaJONES1:45:18

10RichardBON1:46:09

11KyleGREEN1:46:45

12JoelBURCHALL1:49:39

13RyanMASSEY1:50:06

14TomELLIOTT1:50:36

15WillWALKER1:52:05

16TylerHESKETH2:01:00

17Anonymous2:05:49

18SalvatoreBETTIO2:08:55

19FranzOTT2:10:45

Female 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1GiannSEBIRE1:26:39

2EmilyCONROY1:39:10

3JacklynLOMBARDOZZI1:44:35

4OliviaGIGGINS1:47:46

5HannahEDGLEY1:51:14

6KateCLARK1:51:33

7ReneeHAW1:51:42

8Anonymous1:51:56

9CarinaFORSYTH1:52:25

10JessicaBON1:52:30

11ElizaBROOKS1:52:31

12MayaACKROYD1:53:43

13ShelleyHEMMINGS1:54:19

14AshleeROUNDS1:57:47

15OliviaMARTIN2:02:08

16SarahARNOLD2:04:13

17EmmaACKERLY2:06:06

20Anonymous2:13:04

21LaraSEEGER2:14:41

22Anonymous2:18:58

23MakaiEAMES2:28:24

24GraceCROSBIE2:36:27

Male 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1AidanFATTORE1:16:22

2StephenSMITH1:19:23

3JosephWESLEY1:30:54

4BrendonLOECHEL1:31:15

5ShaunMOORE1:31:45

6TylerCAREY1:32:47

7JackPAYNTER1:33:22

8MatthewJARROTT1:35:16

9HaydenSIMS1:37:39

10CallumMCDONALD1:40:27

11JoshRANKIN1:42:00

12DanielPEAT1:43:48

13JasonSTILES1:43:58

14NickBAYLART1:44:17

15KhaiCHAU1:44:58

16BuddhikaJAYATHILAKA1:48:13

17EdmondSHEA1:49:01

18ScottMCGEE1:55:53

19JoshHENDERSON1:56:06

20JoshBUCKLAND1:56:22

21StephenYOUNG1:57:18

22BenMINCHINTON1:57:58

23JamieCLOUGH2:01:24

24JoshBAKER2:04:17

25RyanMACKEY2:07:05

26ReeceBARTLETT2:11:59

Female 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1HalisaNICOLACI1:34:47

2KylieFULFORD1:43:56

3MeganFREEMAN1:48:16

4SimoneWOOLHOUSE1:48:57

5HannahVEDDER1:51:58

6LottieBLOMQVIST1:53:29

7KatieTHURTELL1:54:19

8ClareHORSFALL1:54:47

9GraceALLITT1:54:47

10SophieMATHISKE1:55:16

11CourtneyDALVEAN1:57:43

12SamanthaIRONS1:59:19

13AlanaMORRISON1:59:58

14EmmaDONLAN2:07:31

15ShelPETTS2:13:53

16DeannaCOOK2:17:29

17Anonymous2:19:58

18AmberHESKETH2:23:19

19ChantalSCHOLZ2:30:36

20VictoriaVONTHIEN2:41:34

Male 40-49

PLACENAMETIME

1BrendanBELCHER1:24:43

2KaneDOUGLAS1:27:41

3Anonymous1:28:02

4DanPENDAVINGH1:30:15

5NathanBEVAN1:32:32

6FrankPAPALLO1:34:51

7DanielSTACEY1:36:47

8ChrisOBERIN1:38:05

9RhysLYSTER1:39:39

10RhysHOLLAND1:40:35

11RaduHOGEA1:41:53

SUNDAY MARCH 17

14GagandeepSINGH1:44:50

15AdamMALONEY1:45:11

16MichaelIBBOTT1:47:48

17JeffreyELLIOTT1:48:58

18JamesDUNNE1:57:08

19RobertCARTER2:10:22

20BenCORNISH2:11:15

21BrendanCAIRNS2:28:25

DNFJaimeCHUBB2:43:22

Female 40-49

PLACENAMETIME

1LauraHILL1:35:53

2KatePASCOE1:41:53

3HayleyMCLEOD1:47:31

4CorinnaLEYH1:56:33

5SarahCLARK1:58:44

6SharleneHOWELL2:02:58

7Anonymous2:03:38

8SarahGARAMSZEGI2:09:34

9KarmieWATSON2:09:35

10MichellePATERSON2:11:13

11LauraMARSHALL2:12:41

12JessHARRIS2:18:43

13DelailahHOGAN2:21:03

14HelenREYNOLDS2:32:54

15Anonymous2:33:32

16LeanneHUDSON2:36:46

Male 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1MarkMATHIESON1:26:33

2JohnMADDEN1:28:58

3BlairCOLLINS1:30:25

4SteveMONK1:34:59

5GeorgeLESTER1:36:13

6AndrewFARRINGTON1:39:26

7MunyaradziMUGARI1:47:59

8DaveMITCHELL1:55:48

9Anonymous1:56:06

10DavidJEFFERIES1:56:59

11MartinWISCHER1:59:15

12AntonTERBLANCHE2:10:43

13GregPINKERTON2:20:17

14TroyHUTSON2:21:47

15RobertKRONES2:23:04

16AndrewTINDALL2:41:51

Female50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1NarelleMCINNES1:47:08

2JulieSAVAGE1:52:58

3DeborahCHAMBERS1:55:00

4ShillarSIBANDA2:00:27

5RachelSYKES2:10:44

6StaceyCOLE2:16:03

7LindaBREDENKAMP2:18:00

8JoanneHOWELL3:29:56

Male 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1AndrewSUTHERLAND1:39:00

2StephenSIBANDA1:54:14

3NeilMCVICAR1:55:10

4TimD'ARCY1:57:08

5MichaelCHAPMAN2:09:35

6RichardTHIRKILL2:18:24

7JayFLEMING3:29:50

Female 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1LorraineBRADBURY1:56:52

2LeonieKATEKAR1:58:42

Male 70-79

12DanielNICHOLSON1:41:56

Male 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

18AnnaLUHRS2:06:20

19ReneeWEBSTER2:07:35

13JasonSHIELDS1:42:53

PLACENAMETIME

1PhilHAMER1:40:15

2JohnSIGNORINI1:49:12

3TimSHIRLEY2:05:59

4LindsayNENER2:49:22

10km Walk/Run

Under 18 Male

PLACENAMETIME

1IsaiahBASSETT39:50:00

2LeroyKELLY44:36:00

3HunterSANDERSON45:33:00

4JoshuaWELLS51:04:00

5JackDEAN51:10:00

6LouisMCGEE53:11:00

7OliverALLPICI54:14:00

8FilippoHIGGINS54:25:00

9ShonFRANCIS55:48:00

10JakeLANE57:05:00

11VincentOBRIEN59:22:00

12HughCARROLL1:03:04

13JoeyMALONEY1:04:46

14JalenFISHER1:08:25

15BraxMAWSON1:10:47

16OliverHIGGINS1:16:48

17AlexALLPICI1:29:50

18ChaseSANDERSON1:33:52

19RileyWATSON1:52:27

Under 18 Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Anonymous49:57:00

2MayaDRAPER52:51:00

3PhoebeBOSLEY1:00:04

4Anonymous1:00:24

5MaggieWALKER1:02:14

6AddieBARTLETT1:10:28

7TahliaBASSETT1:14:16

8AmeliaORMANDY1:16:59

9MiliFISHER1:33:52

10KaidynWATSON1:34:36

Male 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1JamesMAGUIRECAPONE37:22:00

2JakeMOUNTNEY37:43:00

3TomGERRISH38:42:00

4JaydenCLISSOLD42:41:00

5AaronDEVLIN46:16:00

6MichaelBOX48:54:00

7JackSORRENSEN55:22:00

8PeterWARD55:48:00

9RileyBRIGHTMORE58:19:00

10CameronWRIGHT1:01:56

11LouisWOLMARANS1:02:24

12JackBROWN1:03:00

13RileyBARTLETT1:06:49

14BenHONEY1:08:48

15BrockKUSEN1:29:02

Female 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1OliviahBODYCOTT46:33:00

2ZaliDOUGLAS51:48:00

3AmyMOUNTNEY52:50:00

4EmmaBUCKINGHAM58:53:00

5MaddiTOBIAS59:57:00

6LauraBELL1:01:19

7OliviaJENKINS1:01:27

8StephanieDOWS1:01:57

9ChloeROYAL1:02:26

10IvySASSINE1:04:12

11ChantelleNIXON1:05:25

14OliviaWELLS1:10:15

15TeaghanMOORE1:10:40

16EmerCAROLAN1:11:56

17BrookeWELLER1:12:34

18IsabellaBENNETT1:15:11

19ArlindaWENTWORTH1:15:52

20KellyCLOUGH1:19:41

Male 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1MarkDECAMPO35:54:00

2TimLANE40:53:00

3MarkFLYNN42:29:00

4MichaelREID46:01:00

5BeauDICKSON46:28:00

6NicholasMEARS46:46:00

7AngeKALAFATIS50:42:00

8ScottyKENNEDY50:42:00

9BrendanDAWES51:33:00

10ScottANDERSON53:04:00

11RodneyANNETTS54:50:00

12PatrickROBINSON59:24:00

13RusselEDEN1:01:15

14JonathanDUDLEY1:02:24

15MichaelWEBBERS1:02:43

16YogendraRAI1:06:18

17RobertCASAROTTO1:08:53

18DanielMISON1:10:15

19EoghanMCGUINNESS1:11:36

20Anonymous1:14:04

21RamHAMIDON1:15:12

22AndrewDART.1:27:40

Female 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1PennyTOWNSHEND41:05:00

2JessCOX48:44:00

3CarlaPAPALLO50:19:00

4GinaKENNEDY50:30:00

5AmyBROWN50:43:00

6TammieREES52:17:00

7RachelBLANCE-PALMER52:44:00

8EmilyRODD52:49:00

9EmilyMCGEE54:02:00

10MelissaREID54:08:00

11KaraBUDGE54:49:00

12SammiMOORE55:41:00

13HesterCLAASSENS55:57:00

14BelindaJAMES57:17:00

15TessBURNS57:29:00

16BreeSCHUTT58:28:00

17RishaniMENDIS58:46:00

18Anonymous59:32:00

19DaniFLANIGAN1:02:32

20ChloeMORRIS1:03:16

21JennaPAYNTER1:03:31

22TessJABBOUR1:04:04

23SamCORCORAN1:04:10

24AmyHADDRILL1:04:10

25TanyaHARVEY1:06:39

26StephanieREARDON1:08:24

27EmmaMERLO1:08:50

28NelliePURCHES1:09:04

29TeganPODUBINSKI1:09:18

30Anonymous1:11:09

31JessicaPEAT1:13:24

32LucyLEE1:14:47

33GeorgiaHAMIDON1:15:11

34Anonymous1:16:26

35StaceyLAMB1:22:06

38BreearnaCASHMAN1:25:35

39AlexandraSMITH1:29:03

40LauraLINDSAY1:29:28

41AmandaDODD1:37:13

42GeorginaJAMES1:39:14

43ChloeHUTSON1:44:48

Male 40-49 PLACENAMETIME

1ChrisFUCHS38:51:00

2DionPERRY38:56:00

3MichaelACKERLY46:22:00

4AshGRAHAM49:59:00

5SimonFATTORE50:22:00

6BernieHURREN51:13:00

7MichaelDICKINS51:19:00

8MasonSCHOLES52:35:00

9AdamBOSLEY52:57:00

10WillieCLAASSENS55:57:00

11RestyFISHER58:08:00

12AnthonyHOGAN59:41:00

13SimonHUNTER1:00:06

14DavidTHAYER1:02:53

15NicHEALEY1:08:50

16JamesWATSON1:53:34

Female 40-49 PLACENAMETIME

1KimboBROADHURST48:50:00

2TishRITCHENS49:04:00

3SharonCARERI54:09:00

4DominicaMALONEY56:09:00

5KymLOECHEL56:19:00

6JennyRUSSELL58:23:00

7KristenACKROYD1:01:17

8SooziiGEDDES1:03:15

9JessieGALLAGHER1:03:41

10KellieAYRES1:04:54

11MarissaBATTEN1:06:01

12JoLAMBERT1:06:01

13Anonymous1:06:53

14AntjeSPENCER1:08:08

15JosieDAVIDSON1:08:15

16HayleyKEEN1:08:50

17LyndaMITCHELL1:14:37

18Anonymous1:14:43

19Anonymous1:14:44

20KristyBOURKE1:20:45

21KirstyBRANAGAN1:25:36

22LeonieLYONS1:29:16

23BrionieALLPICI1:29:49

24SarahNOBLE1:40:27

25EmilySTONE1:43:46

26RachaelTAYLOR1:55:45

Male 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1GarryBURKE42:53:00

2WarrenPROFT45:31:00

3VinceRESTAGNO48:25:00

4StevenOUSLEY51:53:00

5MattLANE52:04:00

6PeterURQUHART55:24:00

7BryanLAW57:17:00

8GwynHATTON1:01:34

9DarrenWARNE1:02:20

10RichieWHITE1:03:57

11DamienPEPPLER1:11:01

12BrendonESSEX1:14:31

SUNDAY MARCH 17

2LenaSERGI54:48:00

3Anonymous56:08:00

4LizPROFT56:12:00

5WendyNICOLL59:13:00

6HayleyDANIEL59:52:00

7KimESSEX1:00:10

8AlisonGRAVESJONES1:00:55

9GabrielleDOUGLAS1:01:15

10AlexandraRYAN1:03:55

11JackieENGLAND1:04:05

12PennieHAYES1:06:22

13Anonymous1:06:33

14BernLONG1:06:41

15AlisonMAHER1:08:18

16DeanaCUMING1:09:15

17JudyLOORHAM1:10:48

18JaneBATESON1:12:42

19KerrieWOODS1:15:12

20ElisbethLONG1:19:14

21TraceyHESKETH1:21:47

22JoelieLOCHHEAD1:26:41

23TraceyHOWSE1:29:10

24KristinBROOKFIELD1:29:24

25JillGILLIES1:30:54

26AmberSEBIRE1:43:45

Male 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1VinceHUMPHRIES47:24:00

2Anonymous52:16:00

3PeterBRIDLE55:05:00

4JoWRIGHT56:01:00

5DavidWATTS56:40:00

6BruceSUTCLIFFE57:05:00

7KevinROWE57:12:00

8AlanOWEN-JONES57:40:00

9PhillipHEALEY59:07:00

10PaulSCHNELLE1:01:32

11BobREID1:04:04

12MickMCINNES1:07:07

13DavidMCGEE1:20:48

14MickHESKETH1:57:31

Female 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1JeanetteMCLAREN57:40:00

2SallyBUCKINGHAM1:00:37

3HelenSTEVENS1:02:04

4JosieCASAROTTO1:04:32

5JennyBROWN1:05:05

6JulieTHOMAS1:07:44

7CarolineROBINSON1:13:04

8Anonymous1:44:26

9LeeanneFINNIGAN1:44:26

10AnnCLARKE1:45:08

11LeonieMAY1:45:09

12KarenMENICHELLI1:45:10

Male 70-79

PLACENAMETIME

1RodBROWNING50:42:00

2ChrisHARVEY57:22:00

3AlfredTUET1:05:51

Female 70-79

PLACENAMETIME

1VickiTHOMPSON1:46:06

Male 80-89

PLACENAMETIME

1PhilipPODBURY1:01:19

36DanniCHUBB1:23:42

13LexWOODS1:15:14

Female

JackieBARTLETT(noage)1:13:42

5km Walk/Run →

12XyTOBIAS1:08:43

13CiennaTOBIAS1:08:43

37FreyaWILLIAMS1:24:26

1TaniaHARDING53:46:00

Under 18 Male

PLACENAMETIME

1EricWOOD17:10

2BrodyVERRICO20:35

3NateFULFORD22:28

4MitchellO'SULLIVAN22:49

5HughCARSON22:59

6AlexLAMBERT23:01

7FinnVOGELS24:26:00

8ChaseGLENDENNING24:46:00

9SpencerCOLE24:55:00

10GusRADESKI26:10:00

11ReidSCHOLES26:32:00

12AtticusTHOMSON26:45:00

13HudsonWALLACE26:54:00

14HamishKERR26:56:00

15KingsleyCHEUNG27:06:00

16HarryDEAN27:51:00

17AlexanderSCHOLES28:13:00

18DaréPATTON28:59:00

19KieranHOPE29:01:00

20ChesterGLENDENNING29:12:00

21LachieFARRINGTON30:07:00

22CharlieACKERLY31:09:00

23OscarDATSON33:41:00

24CorbynMAGNAY34:12:00

25JamesHOURIGAN-FLANIGAN34:16:00

26AlfieTHAYER35:27:00

27MarcusFAVARO36:24:00

28LucaTRELOAR42:31:00 29RaymondTRELOAR42:47:00

30NathanWILSON46:58:00

Under 18 Female

6LaceyMURPHY29:53:00

7EmilyMALONEY30:50:00

8KianaLANE30:56:00

9MillicentJONES30:57:00 10ClaudiaKERR33:21:00

4NathanMCLEAN29:17:00

5JoshuaCAMILLERI31:13:00

6HarrisonCOATSWORTH32:10:00

7TomJOHNSON38:55:00

8BillyCAMPBELL40:02:00

9Anonymous48:25:00

10AlexROWLAND59:01:00

11PatrickBREN59:12:00

12DeclanBREN59:12:00

13Anonymous1:02:59

Female 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1YovitaMELIA29:01:00

2JessicaBONE29:16:00

3AmyHOLMES29:18:00

4EmilyMOL29:48:00

5Anonymous30:07:00

6MollyBATE30:23:00

7AbbieFLACK30:24:00

8JaalaVANDEDUIM31:14:00

9ChristinePOWELL33:12:00

10IvyHIGGINS33:12:00

11ChloeTOOMEY34:25:00

12BekCOLLER35:11:00

13BreeLUCAS35:28:00

14KathleenPOWELL36:08:00

15SarahFAVARO36:25:00

16TessaHOWDEN36:40:00

17BrookeFAVARO36:41:00

18RoseSARTORI38:55:00

19PhoebeMAGUIRECAPONE41:14:00

20EmmaARNOL41:32:00

21EeMinLIM48:25:00

22KirstyBARNES49:34:00

23Anonymous51:26:00

24Anonymous54:42:00

25Anonymous54:42:00

26Anonymous58:09:00

27EmilyOTT58:10:00

28Anonymous59:02:00

29ClareUSHER59:15:00

30JessLYON59:16:00

31ErinREIFF59:47:00

32NicolaHALES1:00:17

33LouiseSARIC1:03:28

34AliciaSARIC1:03:36

35Anonymous1:12:11

Male 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1MichaelHOSKING17:15

2TimDONALD21:31

3TimROMAN26:25:00

4JamesPERKINS26:56:00

9KatrinaWATTS31:15:00

10EboniCLIFTON32:31:00

11Anonymous32:32:00

12MelissaHOURIGAN34:15:00

13NatalieJONES36:16:00

14SallyMOORE36:44:00

15ErinMCGREGOR37:16:00

16DaniDONALD37:20:00

17BecJAMES38:28:00

18MinDICKSON39:19:00

19Anonymous40:26:00

20LisaHARRIS41:09:00

21KasiBURGE42:52:00

22JessDRAGE43:18:00

23AmyMCKENZIE44:07:00

24GiovanaGIMENEZ44:33:00

25Anonymous46:22:00

26KristiPEMMELAAR48:22:00

27BeckySMITH48:23:00

28ChristineNANSON48:47:00

29LauraBARROW51:29:00

30MeganJONES52:56:00

31BernadetteBLANCE-PALMER53:29:00

32SarahWARFE54:04:00

33SamanthaLAMPARD59:24:00

34ShonaOXLEY59:35:00

35JessicaO'NEILL1:00:11

36CassieHESKETH1:06:25

37BriannaMCILLREE1:06:26

38KendallREID1:28:02

Male 40-49

PLACENAMETIME

1JoshPALLING23:35

2MarkSTALEY24:37:00

3SeanWARFE24:52:00

4ShaneMCDONALD28:34:00

5ChrisPENNEY29:16:00

6PaulMOLINACHAVEZ29:33:00

7StanPITCHUA34:29:00

8OwenGODENZI35:47:00

9JoshMOORE36:43:00

10BenWATTS37:00:00

11AnthonyHOGAN38:50:00

12RussellTRELOAR41:31:00

13Anonymous48:29:00

14AnthonyHICKS55:57:00

15StephenHARDY56:02:00

16CharlieBIRD1:28:04

Female 40-49

PLACENAMETIME

1VictoriaMITCHELL18:49

2KimBLACKIE23:41

3LouiseMORRIS24:45:00

SUNDAY MARCH 17

21AmandaBEAZLEY39:53:00

22JadePENNEY41:22:00

23SarahTRELOAR41:29:00

24MariaBUTTLER41:48:00

25AndreaDEMPSTER46:07:00

26CassandraHAWKEY46:08:00

27GeorginaPENGILLEY48:30:00

28JodieEVANS48:37:00

29OlgaSCHOLES49:08:00

30FelicityHARTRIDGE49:32:00

31JodieWELLS49:33:00

32NickiJORY50:11:00

33EllynWILSON56:07:00

34Anonymous58:10:00

35ClareWRIGHT59:37:00

36KristySARIC1:03:34

Male 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1ScottGRANT25:56:00

2GregTRETHOWAN26:01:00

3JasonTHOMAS29:56:00

4WernerVOGELS30:46:00

5SimonCROCE32:00:00

6Anonymous43:44:00

7BlueyWATSON57:26:00

8AdrianBREN59:13:00

Female 50-59

PLACENAMETIME

1LouiseFRASER23:36

2KylieCOATSWORTH24:30:00

3JackieHOBBS25:04:00

4LorraineCALDER26:50:00

5JoO'SHAUGHNESSY27:18:00

6ElisaCROCE31:53:00

7ElizabethBEHRENDT33:19:00

8AngellaFRANCIS33:32:00

9CorinaMODDERMAN33:44:00

10JennyLINDSEY34:03:00

11Anonymous36:05:00

12TraceyKERR38:04:00

13Anonymous38:51:00

14KerriMCKENNA39:40:00

15MeganMCLACHLAN40:03:00

16SueTHIELE43:15:00

17MelanieMCDONALD49:12:00

18Anonymous50:55:00

19CherylMASTERS52:17:00

20WendyJONES52:57:00

21Anonymous53:19:00

22NadinePEPPLER56:04:00

23NadiaMANCINI57:09:00

24HelenJONES59:01:00

25BernadetteBREN59:12:00

21HannahCARROLL42:34:00

22LaraMAREK-RHODES44:59:00

23DashaMANNING45:00:00

24EllieMEGGS45:26:00

25LillyNOBLE45:26:00

26MatildaBIRD50:55:00

27MollyBIRD50:58:00

28CharlotteJAMES52:11:00

29IvyJAMES52:15:00

30AliceJAMES53:12:00

31JordanaMOORE1:00:07

32KyrahEVANS1:00:20

33EmmaALLPICI1:05:51

Male 18-29

PLACENAMETIME

1JoshLEDGER17:03

2ThomasRYAN17:26

3ThomasESSEX25:37:00

5NicholasMAGNAY27:10:00

6AaronCHEONG29:18:00

7Anonymous46:21:00

8Anonymous46:22:00

9DanielMOORE55:41:00

10DanielCASTLE57:00:00

11DarrenWIND59:36:00

Female 30-39

PLACENAMETIME

1ChanelleGASPARI24:13:00

2FionaFATTORE24:15:00

3SarahPATTERSON26:19:00

4SamLYSTER26:22:00

5VandaJOHNSTONE26:52:00

6CatherineWOOD27:25:00

7MillieBURBURY28:33:00

8DeeHOSKING29:16:00

4NatalieQUARRELL26:36:00

5SusanGINNIVAN26:56:00

6JoWYATT29:18:00

7KimberlyMICKELBUROUGH30:23:00

8SharynACKERLY31:11:00

9Anonymous32:35:00

10KellyFOSTER33:35:00

11HayleyWALLACE33:48:00

12KelliPARANIHI34:18:00

13TanyaMCALPIN35:09:00

14AntheaFUCHS35:14:00

15Anonymous35:26:00

16CherylCHEUNG37:55:00

20BecVANDERHEYDEN39:24:00

26JodiFORSTER59:33:00

27JoanCLOUGH1:02:26

28KayleneCLOUGH1:02:26

29Anonymous1:13:21

Male 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1GlennCLARKE24:05:00

2PeterBROWN28:08:00

3AndrewCOATSWORTH32:19:00

4BrianREID50:17:00

5PeterDAVIS57:31:00

Female 60-69

PLACENAMETIME

1AlexisVIOLA33:28:00

2YvonneRICHARDS36:13:00

3Anonymous38:24:00

4LeanneTHOMSON41:20:00

5Sue REID50:16:00

6Anne CARTWRIGHT50:54:00

7Nola BLANCE51:36:00

8Susan BENEDYKA53:22:00

9Peta INGLIS54:02:00

10Colleen FREEMAN54:47:00

11Maree TIMMS58:57:00

12Anonymous58:58:00

13Kathy HENRY1:00:14

14Maryellen GREALY1:00:14

15Marie HIGGINSON1:17:26

Male 70-79

PLACENAMETIME

1Doug BEGGS26:48:00

Female 70-79

PLACENAMETIME

1Margaret TIMMS49:50:00

2Marion NASH54:44:00

3Carmel ELLIS54:51:00

4Jan MARTIN54:52:00

5Karen DAVIS57:14:00

6Sue RYAN1:02:08

7Jillian THAYER1:02:10

2km Primary School Challenge

Under 6 Male PLACENAMETIME

1Emmett AMBROSIO11:44

2Harrison OFFORD12:03

3Harrison COOK12:22

4Oliver REA13:43

5Sebastian SCALZO13:55

6Thomas PEAT14:18

7William SANDERS14:52

8Anonymous17:08

9Charlie RIDGWAY-DUNNE17:19

10Silvan STACEY17:49

11Conrad FLENTJAR19:06

12Henry REDMOND19:28

13Murphy BRYANT21:40

14Oscar NEWMAN24:08:00

15Tyler CUNNINGHAM25:34:00

16Ario PASQUALI29:37:00

Under 6 Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Maggie PERKINS13:33

2Matilda LIPSHUT13:40

3Mila MCCORMICK15:07

4Maggie MANSFIELD15:17

5Ida REDMOND15:21

6Sofia HARRIS16:04

7Annabell REID16:32

8Bella MATTHEWS17:29

9Vienna RIDGWAY-DUNNE19:10

10Alice RICHARDSON19:28

11Willow EARP19:48

12Anonymous20:12

13Sofia SCALZO21:49

14Nellie DYSON23:23

15Grace WARNE27:01:00

6 Year Old Male

PLACENAMETIME

1Christopher CHEUNG10:00

2Rhys GASPARI10:50

3Reuben FATTORE11:15

4Charlie JONES11:57

5Julian MOLINA-GAITAN13:09

6Reuben JAMES13:59

7Leo LAW14:31

8Patrick WATTS15:16

9Billy FLYNN15:43

10Ollie BERRY16:24

11Flynn CHEONG16:48

12Harry EDWARDS17:02

13Eddie BRYANT21:40

14Ned AMBROSIO21:54

6 Year Old Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Annika CARSON11:31

2Clancy HEATHER11:48

3Harriet LIPSHUT12:00

4Florence LINGHAM12:07

5Penny PERKINS13:02

6Emilie JONKER13:19

7Charlie DICKSON13:58

8Anonymous16:16

9Eloise BYRN16:36

10Niamh MATHIESON27:22:00

7 Year Old Male

PLACENAMETIME

1Gus DYSON9:32

2Lewis HOSKING9:47

3Brock MAREK-RHODES10:25

4Zander HOOPER10:47

5Tyler OBERIN10:56

6Mason COOK11:36

7Max HERRMANN-O'BRIEN11:42

8Bernie PHILLIPS11:52

9Finn CORNISH12:02

10Bruce SMITHSON12:27

11Hudson REID12:36

12Levi GOULLET-MARGETSON19:36

13George NEWMAN28:05:00

7 Year Old Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Grace MICKELBUROUGH10:04

2Lyla ALLAN10:25

3Elise WALKER10:53

4Claire MARTIN11:36

5Olivia DALY11:36

6Aerin SHEATHER13:05

7Emily STEEL13:42

8Amelia HALLORAN14:01

9Kaya SHAH14:04

10Madelyn BENTON14:11

11Millie NORDEN14:43

12Misty MATTHEWS14:43

13Clara SILVEIRA15:13

14Ivy BISHOP15:56

15Lily OFFORD16:18

16Milly RICHARDSON16:31

17Finch ARNOLD16:32

18Aaliyah HOGAN18:04

8 Year Old Male

PLACENAMETIME

1Lachlan JONES8:30

2Patrick LIPSHUT8:43

3Gus RADESKI8:53

4Mason CUTTS9:01

5Liam GASPARI9:21

6Chester GLENDENNING9:36

7Isaac FATTORE9:40

8Flynn LEDGER9:43

9Finn DYSON10:06

10Toby DICKSON10:24

11Sultan SANGHA11:29

12Mason WEBBERS13:39

13Wyatt BYRN15:32

14Tom STEPHENS25:42:00

8 Year Old Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Lucy ALLEN9:27

2Lydia LENGRAND10:06

3Isabelle LARKIN10:07

4Lacey MURPHY10:27

5Ella MURPHY10:31

6Carola HIGGINS12:14

7Lidia KENDRICK12:50

8Emily HENSCHKE13:04

9Penny PORTER13:37

10Hazel GRIFFIN13:38

11Lucille KIRBY13:56

12Scarlett MCARDLE14:16

13Stella JAMES14:30

14Maddison WATTS15:19

15Lily JONES15:28

16Esmari CLAASSENS18:03

17Stella FELSTEAD18:04

18Willow DUFFY21:50

9 Year Old Male

PLACENAMETIME

1Blair HOSKING7:44

2Oscar PRIMMER7:54

3Carter PETTS8:02

4Lucas DALY8:58

5Jimmy RADESKI9:36

6William COOK9:47

7Harvey WYATT10:16

8Lachie WALKER10:41

9William PENNEY13:01

10Nate HADLEY14:25

11Spencer LINGHAM15:00

12Alexander O'NEILL17:09

9 Year Old Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Emma EDWARDS10:26

2Gema WINN10:34

3Olivia STEEL10:38

4Lalia SARTORI11:05

5Riley FISHER11:11

6Florence KIRBY12:22

7Indigo ARNOLD12:44

8Victoria MOLINA-GAITAN12:48

9Maisie BROOMFIELD13:03

10Aleeyah WARNER15:11

11Hasini WASALA15:55

10 Year Old Male

SUNDAY MARCH 17

PLACENAMETIME

1Tom LAMBERT7:59

2Chase GLENDENNING8:47

3Harvey DYSON9:27

4Mac PHILLIPS10:02

5Daniel RESTAGNO10:09

6Stanley RICHARDSON11:42

7Lucas MILVAIN12:20

8Elliott OFFERMANN12:55

9Jack SEYMOUR14:08

10Jack WEBBERS14:09

11Tyson GARLICK14:59

12Dax SHAH15:22

10 Year Old Female

PLACENAMETIME

1Ashton RYAN8:22

2Emma WYATT9:18

3Eva DEAN9:53

4Piper MATTHEWS10:26

5Lola FLYNN10:37

6Maddison JONES10:39

7Phoebe READ11:42

8Madison PASCOE12:08

9Poppy JONES12:58

10Anonymous13:35

11Stella GRAHAM15:08

12Zoe FLYNN15:20

13Nevaeh WARNER15:52

11 Year Old Male

PLACENAMETIME

1Max PALMER11:39

2Jobe DUMMETT11:50

3Ryan VAN DER POEL11:51

4Mark HENSCHKE11:55

5Vihas WASALA13:17

6Christopher MUNZEL14:45

7Jaxon CASTAGNA15:34

11 Year Old Female PLACENAMETIME

1Tahlia PALLING8:26

2Ava PENNEY9:19

3Ally WALLACE9:40

4Lyla PORTER9:44

5Bridie KAY9:52

6Pia FISHER11:04

7Natalie WALKER11:52

8Anonymous16:01

12 Year Old Male PLACENAMETIME

1Jack DEAN8:23

2Daré PATTON8:59

3Sam ALLEN15:19

12 Year Old Female PLACENAMETIME

1Eva MORRIS9:20

2Asta ELZINGA9:43

3Matilda DE PRADA13:34

Misha DYKES (no age)14:34

Thank you to all our participants For all 2024 race results go to https://www.alpinetiming.com.au/results/r450/

KERRILY JAY and SUZ SMITH completed the 10km event.

TEAM Essex members BRIONIE ALLPICI and daughter EMMA were all smiles after completing their respective 10km and 5km event.

CAROLA HIGGINS volunteered at the water station on Cambridge Drive and also competed in the 2km Primary School Challenge.

LUCILLE KIRBY and DARE PATTON competed in the 2km Primary School Challenge.

ALAN OWEN-JONES leads other runners on the Bullawah Trail during the 10km event along the tranquil Ovens River.

HARRIET LIPSHUT, GRACE MICKELBOROUGH and TOM LAMBERT get started in the 2km Primary School Challenge.

EMILIE JONKER and PHOEBE READ get a fast start in the 2km Primary School Challenge.

Marathon

Male: 1st Dane Verwey 2.40.41; 2nd Lee Martin 2.43.56; 3rd Cameron Hall 2.44.54.

Female: 1st Samantha Sloss 3.23.47; 2nd Lauren Scott 3.51.02; 3rd Cheryl Symons 4.07.28

Half Marathon

Male: 1st Aidan Fattore 1.16.24; 2nd Stephen Smith 1.19.25; 3rd Ryan Claxton 1.21.30.

Female: 1st Giann Sebire 1.26.43, 2nd Halisa Nicolaci 1.34.53; 3rd Laura Hill 1.35.57.

10KM

Male: 1st Mark De Campo 35.55; 2nd James Maguire Capone 37.24, Jake Mountney 37.45.

Female: 1st Penny Townshend 41.07; 2nd Oliviah Bodycott 46.36; 3rd Jess Cox 48.49.

5KM

Male: 1st Josh Ledger 17.03; 2nd Eric Wood 17.10; 3rd Michael Hosking 17.16.

Female: 1st Victoria Mitchell 18.50; Bella Fulford 22.20; 3rd Louise Fraser 23.38.

2024 OVERALL RACE PLACEGETTERS

PHOTOS: Nick Richards

JO WRIGHT

JESSICA BON SAM CORCORAN

AMY HADDRILL OSCAR PRIMMER

CHRIS FUCHS

LACHLAN JONES

TAHLIA PALLING

MELISSA HOURIGAN, JAMES HOURIGAN-FLANIGAN NICK MAGNAY CORBYN MAGNAY

BOB REID, MICHAEL REID, MELISSA REID, BRENDAN DAWES

SARAH NOBLE

LISA HARRIS

Photo

A family oasis on five acres

EMBRACE the pleasure of country living with this remarkable property boasting a spacious three-bedroom home plus a versatile open study or potential fourth bedroom, all set on a stunning 2.02-hectare (five acre) parcel of land.

Discover a sanctuary where modern comforts blend seamlessly with rural charm, offering a lifestyle of tranquillity and convenience.

The bedrooms include built-in robes and ceiling fans, ensuring ample storage and comfort for the entire family.

The master bedroom also features a new ensuite.

Enjoy the convenience of a purposebuilt home office, providing the ideal space for remote work or study with a lovely bay window outlook and external

Wangaratta branch

76

Open weekdays

access perfect for client meetings.

This large room could also be easily converted into a fourth bedroom.

The kitchen showcases Blackwood cabinetry and is equipped with quality appliances and a large pantry, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

This space connects to the open-plan meals/dining area, which then flows through to the large family room.

Through sliding doors there is an additional formal lounge room with a feature combustion wood heater, providing ample spaces for family living and entertaining.

There are also a number of split systems throughout the home to provide convenient climate control year-round.

An 8kw solar system covers a large portion of electricity usage, supplemented by

solar hot water, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability.

Step outside to a paved, all-weather entertaining area overlooking the in-ground pool and established gardens, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.

Additional features include two large machinery sheds, a double carport, plus an insulated and air-conditioned bungalow/games room with an additional storage room.

A small cluster of wine grape vines adds a touch of charm and potential for hobby winemaking.

Enjoy the serenity of country living while being just a short distance from essential amenities and recreational attractions.

It’s only a 20-minute drive to Wangaratta or Myrtleford, and close to the gourmet

food region and ski fields.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this family oasis your own.

Contact Garry Nash & Co today to arrange a private inspection.

Glenrowan 2/34 Gladstone Street

95m2

Affordable Commercial Freehold

For Sale $259,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25321697

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Rutherglen 96 Main Street

413m2 4

Prime

Harcourts

Whitfield 4882 Wangaratta-Whitfield Rd

1000m22 11

Opportunity in Whitfield Township

For Sale $595,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26165874

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 74 Christensen Lane

774m24 22

New Home in Baltimore

For Sale $895,000-$920,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25847611

Nutrien

Harcourts

Joe

Wangaratta 2/1 Gray Street

130m22 11

Central Investing For Sale $330,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19418912

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Oxley Lot 2 Shadforth Street

1012m2

Build your dream home in Oxley Township

For Sale $400,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26645822

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 62 Phillipson Street

719m23 22

Charming & Renovated

For Sale $629,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19191160

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 86 Templeton Street

571m23 11

Heritage Charm in the Perfect Location

For Sale $1,025,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19191872

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Tarrawingee Lot 1, 36 Pryse Road

4012m2

Lifestyle block in Tarrawingee township

For Sale $335,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26387973

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Oxley 1/79 Ely Street 1012m2

Build your dream home in Oxley Township

For Sale $400,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25539718

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 73 Vincent Road

1037m23 12

Charming restoration with period features

For Sale $590,000-$620,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190455

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Springhurst 644 McMahons Road

25.89Ac4 22

Amazing Family Lifestyle Property

For Sale $1,100,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19194462

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 47 Mather Street

603m23 11

Value in Mather Street

For Sale $360,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L25577147

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Glenrowan 220 Old Hume Highway

5.6Ac

Premium Lifestyle Opportunity

For Sale $450,000-$495,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26723008

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Greta South 00 Wangaratta-Kilfeera Rd

91 Acres

“Flynn’s” Hayshed, Dams. Sealed Access

For Sale $840,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L24899880

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Joe McKenzie M 0423 655 179

Harcourts Wangaratta

Hansonville 00 Delaneys Lane

110 Acres4 21

Hansonville Grazing at its Best, Trees, Yards, Dams

For Sale $1,425,000

View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L26518933

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Selling

Suzuki loosens grip on S-Cross costs

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

IT’S been a long and lonely road for the SX4 since it landed Down Under in the mid-noughties.

For a start, the compact SUV created about the same enthusiasm as pair of sensible shoes, and after a decade, had a name change.

It’s now the S-Cross.

With all-wheel drive models first up, Suzuki has come to the party with a couple of S-Cross front-wheel drives at up to $5000 less than their AWD siblings.

All are powered by the same 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Up against the likes of the Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Qashqai, prices start from $37,490 for the entry-level S-Cross GL 1.4 litre FWD and top out with the GLX Prestige AllGrip 4WD at $44,490.

On test was the GLX Plus FWD at $39,990.

Like all present-day Suzuki cars the S-Cross is covered by a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty and five-year capped-price service scheme, the latter at 12 months or 10,000 kilometre intervals.

STYLING

Compared to the bland SX4, the compact S-Cross is rather dapper.

Up front there’s a hint of edginess with a two-storey grille dominated by the stylised Suzuki ‘S’ leaving little doubt as to the car’s pedigree. An aggressive piano black diamond lattice grille and LED headlights have the SUV standing tall, while square wheel arches wrapping polished alloy and silver highlights on the bumpers make for a more robust profile than before.

Body coloured power folding and heated exterior mirrors, and door handles contrast with 17-inch polished alloy wheels giving the SUV ground clearance of 175 mm.

INTERIOR

The convenience of tilt and telescopic column with leather bound steering wheel is joined by the quality and comfort of leather accented seats - front heated, driver’s height adjustable and rear 60:40 split.

Dual zone climate control air-con even includes a pollen filter.

Storage consists of a deep centre console box, with padded lid doubling as an arm rest, two cup holders, front and rear and a couple of front and rear bottle slots.

Leg room for the averagebuild occupant is good.

The boot has room for 430 litres of cargo with the rear seat backs up and 1230 litres with seat backs folded. A space saver spare can be found under the floor.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The engine is unchanged, with the 1.4 litre Boosterjet turbocharged four-cylinder engine being mated with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.

AllGrip has been left behind, with the GLX Plus putting power to ground via the front wheels only.

SAFETY

The new S-Cross has an ANCAP rating in waiting.

Featured are autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop / start in heavy traffic; lane departure warning and mitigation, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, electronic stability program.

There’s also weaving alert, warning the driver if he or she lets the vehicle go wandering.

Also on hand are blind spot monitor; front and rear parking sensors; hill hold control on moving off on inclines; rear cross-traffic alert and dual sensor brake support.

A camera and sensor warns and brakes for pedestrians.

Front and rear parking sensors cap off the active safety systems.

Front, side and curtain airbags are standard and there are two ISOFIX child seat, plus three child seat tether anchorages in the rear.

DRIVING

Keyless entry and start provide easy access for the driver.

The carry-over powertrain is already well sorted and provides smooth takeoff

The S-Cross is spritely on the move thanks to the turbo and overtaking can be performed with confidence.

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts add a further level of driver input without dialling up too much excitement.

The maker claims fuel consumption of 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres, against 6.2 for the AWD, in the combined urban / highway cycle.

On test, figures of 7.3 litres per 100 kilometres came up in the suburbs and 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres at motorway speeds.

The driver is aided by an instrument cluster, comprising two analogue gauges with a digital trip computer between, which includes a speedo.

Dual-zone climate control adjustment is within easy reach on the centre stack.

The S-Cross is rated at 1500kg, braked, and 600kg, unbraked, for towing.

AllGrip 4WD drive modes, found only in upper range models, is worth a mention.

Dialled up through a knob on the centre console behind the gearshift, Auto

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE:

S-CROSS GL 1.4L FWD $37,490

S-CROSS GLX PLUS 1.4L FWD $39,990

S-CROSS GL ALLGRIP 1.4L 4WD $40,990

S-CROSS GLX PLUS ALLGRIP 1.4L 4WD $43,490

S-CROSS GLX PRESTIGE ALLGRIP 1.4L 4WD $44,490

NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Suzuki dealer for drive-away prices.

mode switches between front-wheel and all-wheel drive when conditions demand; Sport sends more torque to the rear and improved engine response; Snow enhances traction on slippery surfaces, maximum torque to rear wheels to get out of such as sand or snow.

The Lock button delivers 50:50 front / rear distribution.

On test, the front-wheel drive GLX Plus provided good road manners on the bitumen in both wet and dry conditions.

However, AllGrip has its attractions for those wanting to go in for a little offroad ‘adventure’.

SUMMARY

A saving of $1000 is not a lot to gain by forgoing fourwheel drive.

However, Suzuki insists the front-wheel drive car ‘now looks right’.

How right only time, and sales, will tell.

RATINGS Looks: 7/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 6/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 4/10

ENGINE:

Capacity: 1.373 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders inline

Maximum Power: 103 kW @ 5500 rpm

Maximum Torque: 220 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm

Fuel Type: Unleaded petrol 95RON Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 5.9 L/100km

Emissions: CO2 145 g/km

DRIVELINE: Six-speed torque converter automatic, front-wheel drive.

■ FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE: The Suzuki S-Cross AllGrip SUVs have been joined by cost cutting two-wheel drive versions

A milestone St Joseph’s reunion

By CHLOE JAENICKE

A REUNION was held for students who started secondary school at St Joseph’s College Wangaratta in 1964.

Together the women celebrated the 60-year milestone at the Old Town and Country Tavern where they reminisced on their school years over drinks and lunch.

The reunion took place on Friday, March 15.

MILESTONE: Many from the cohort who started secondary school at St Joseph’s in 1964 came to the 60-year reunion on March 15.

PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke

MEMORIES: Helen Long and Joan Lloyd.

CATCHING UP: Jill Pinner, Kay Murphy Ann Wearne, Elfie Bailey, Barbara Scanlan, Jane McDonald Baron, Margaret Barnes, Brenda March, Carol Marsh, Carol Solimo and Joan McArdle.

GETTING TOGETHER: Sandra Phillips, Jill Faraquhar, Anne Diffey, Anne Tatts, Di Boag, Helen Long, Marlene O’Keefe, Magaret Ashmead and Joan Lloyd all stayed local after finishing school.

REUNITING: Jane McDonald, Elfie Bailey, Anne Tatts and Elaine Hookey.

NORTH East Water is engaging with customers, service agencies and councils to improve the support it provides to people having difficulty paying their water bills or accessing services.

The corporation is proactively conducting surveys, interviews and workshops to better understand economic and social vulnerability issues in the region.

Marni Jones, general manager of customers, community and culture said North East Water was committed to listening to its customers to

improve the support it provides and reduce barriers to its services.

“Our board of directors recently met with leaders from a range of service organisations to hear from them how to better support people who are experiencing vulnerability and the agencies that are caring for them,” she said.

“Our staff are also directly engaging with customers who have previously sought help from North East Water and we’re holding workshops with local service agencies.

“The feedback will be incorporat-

Adam’s locks raise $2000 for Ryans

FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2014

By SIMONE KERWIN

GENEROUS locals helped raise more than $5000 for Wangaratta couple Jaime and Matt Ryan and their premature baby, Mason Jack, during an appeal held on Sunday.

Mason was born nine weeks early on February 10, and is still being cared for at the Royal Children’s Hospital, with Matt travelling to and from Melbourne to be with his family and continue working locally.

Natasha Norris, who organised Sunday’s fundraiser, said a total of $5660 was raised on the day by the 70 people who attended.

“All up, added to the donations to the account (set up for the family at the National Australia Bank),

ed into a new Fair Practice Customer Support Plan which will then help inform broader community engagement later this year for our draft 2026 price plan.”

Fifteen service agencies are participating in the engagement.

They represent Aboriginal health, disability advocacy, elder rights, ethnic communities, community health, youth services, women’s health and family care, rural financial counselling, food support and local government.

Ms Jones said the discussions

10 years ago 10 years ago

about $8500 has been raised,” Ms Norris said.

Sunday’s event included an auction, spinning wheel and kids’ entertainment at the Northo, and also among the fundraising activities was a decision by local man Adam Dinning to shave his head for the cause.

Sponsorship of the head shave reached $1800, and those attending then kicked in another $200 to make it a close razor shave.

▲ HELPING OUT: Local man Adam Dinning had his head shaved, with the help of Kristy Vearing, on Sunday to raise funds for Jaime and Matt Ryan and their premature baby, Mason Jack.

Ms Norris said Ms Ryan was speechless when told of the fundraising efforts.

“She said, ‘You just don’t know what this means to us’,” Ms Norris said.

“It’s just a massive weight off their shoulders.”

Donations can still be made to the NAB account set up to raise funds for the family.

North East Water reviews customer support program

to date have identified the rising cost of living, access to services in the region, health and wellbeing, homelessness and housing availability as key issues for vulnerable customers and the agencies that support them.

“What we are hearing is that customers appreciate the support North East Water currently provides,” she said.

“They want us to continue to prioritise targeted support, ensure our services are well communicated and easy to access, maintain affordabil-

ity and flexibility in bill payments, and importantly, be responsive to customer needs.”

North East Water provides water and wastewater services to more than 117,000 people across a 20,000 square kilometre region.

Each year its customer support team helps thousands of people who are having difficulty paying their water bills or accessing services.

North East Water’s support team is available via www.newater.com. au/help or on 1300 361 633.

Council Meeting

The next Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held at 6pm on Tuesday 26 March at the King Valley Community Complex, Whitfield Recreational Reserve, 6195 Mansfield-Whitfield Road, Whitfield. Questions can be asked by those in attendance and can also be submitted before 10am on the day of the meeting by emailing council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

An agenda will be available on Council’s website www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/agendas.

For those unable to attend, a recording of the meeting will be available to view online, via Council’s YouTube channel the following day.

Wangaratta Art GallerySchool Holiday Workshops

Rethink Recreate Waste

Thursday 4 April 10am - 12pm & Friday 5 April | 10am - 12pm

Come along for a morning of upcycling yarn, scraps, and non-traditional materials into a woven mini wall weaving. In this workshop participants will learn basic weaving on a cardboard frame and how to incorporate all sorts of waste material - a great technique that will keep little hands busy and minds engaged for many more hours at home!

Healing Paper Plant Wreath

Thursday 11 April 10am - 12pm & Friday 12 April | 10am - 12pm

Make your own individual paper leaf wreath incorporating the leaves of healing and medicinal plants, such as calendula, elderberry, mint, and nettle. Participants will develop fine motor skills by cutting and folding paper to create a healing-plant paper wreath. The workshops are suitable for all ages and experience levels. For more information and to book either workshop visit www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au

Companion Animal Desexing Program

This program provides low-cost desexing for those in our community who hold a pension, concession, or health care and low-income card. The scheme also encourages responsible pet ownership by ensuring animals are microchipped and registered free of charge at the same time. Available now, until funding is exhausted. For full terms and conditions and instructions on how to participate in the program please visit Council’s website or Customer Service desk.

Community Sport Fair Access Policy

The Rural City of Wangaratta recently endorsed the draft Fair Access Policy and Facility Booking Policy for public exhibition. These policies will ensure that women and girls have equal opportunities to participate in and enjoy the benefits of community sport, with fair access to local facilities. Council is now asking community members to share their ideas and provide input into the policies and actions outlined in the draft. Share your ideas and make contributions via the Connect Wangaratta website. Submissions close 28 March.

Happy Easter!

As the Easter weekend approaches, we would like to inform the community that all scheduled kerbside waste collection (General Waste, Recycle, Organics) will remain unchanged.

Bowser Landfill & Wangaratta Transfer Station will be closed on Good Friday - 29 March 2024 (both domestic & commercial)

Eldorado Transfer Station will be open Easter Sunday (31 March) 9am -11.50am and Markwood Transfer Station will be open Easter Sunday (31 March) 1pm - 3.50pm

Clarkes Lane and 69 Clarkes Lane Wangaratta.

Plans and supporting documentation associated with the Development Plan are available for viewing on Council’s website.

Interested and affected parties are invited to make comment for Council to consider during the assessment. Submissions must be made in writing, email: planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or post: PO Box 238 Wangaratta Vic 3676.

Submissions for comment on the Development Plan close 12th April 2024. When making a submission please include reference to ‘South Growth Area Precinct 6 Development Plan’.

For any queries, please contact the Planning Department on 03 5722 0888 or via planningmail@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

Community Satisfaction Survey

From now until late March, your household may receive a call from independent market research agency, National Field Services who have been commissioned to conduct a community satisfaction survey on behalf of Council. The agency will interview a sample of residents to assess Council’s performance across a range of measures, identifying ways to provide improvement or more effective service delivery to residents. Please be assured that your details and responses are confidential. Only the overall results are shared with the Rural City of Wangaratta. We appreciate you taking the time to assist us with your valuable feedback. If you have any questions, please call Council on 5722 0888.

Planning Applications

Application No PlnApp23/207

Location 2-6 Docker Street and 47-59 Ovens Street Wangaratta.

Proposal Buildings and works for the extension to an existing supermarket including alterations to the car park, public amenities block and installation of signage.

These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing). For more information, please contact the Town Planning team on 03 5722 0888. Council will not decide these applications before 3 April 2024

Positions vacant

For further information on these positions please visit https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers

To Visit Visited

FARM shed/garage clearing out sale, accumulation over 80 years. Saturday, March 23, 7am, 616 Laceby Targoora Road, Laceby 3678 - cash preferred.

27

GOOD FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024 NO PAPER

EASTER MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2024 NO PAPER

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2024

Classifieds cut off:

2pm, Tuesday, April 2

Please note our office will be closed

GOOD FRIDAY and EASTER MONDAY and will re-open as usual Tuesday, April 2 at 9am

MYRRHEE RECREATION RESERVE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

To be held at the reserve on Monday, March 25, 2024 at 6pm

All community members welcome

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

MARKS Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.

PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade qualified, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.

2

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000

WEEK IN PRINT AND

Benalla Rose City Band currently seeking applications for the position of Musical Director

1 black male an d 2 ginger female Cavoodle puppies for sale, in Rutherglen, microchipped/ vet check and 1st vax, ready for n ew homes, Breede r Source no MB208182, M icrochip numbers: 900164002282604, 900164002282591, 900164002262606. Phone Greg 0400 831 590.

FERRETS

The successful incumbent will work with the Band’s committee and other relevant external committees to develop and implement an artistic plan that will see the ensemble continue to develop and contribute to community events in Benalla Rural City.

Please contact the President on 0409 967 303 to receive a copy of the Position Description.

Applications close April 8, 2024.

Outside School Hours Care Coordinator

A position exists at Glenrowan Primary School as their Outside School Hours Care Coordinator.

The successful applicant must be qualified (or working towards) the minimum Diploma of Childrens Services standard (or equivalent).

The position is for Monday to Thursday 3pm to 6pm, or as negotiated.

Some work in school holidays would also be available.

Position description available by emailing glenrowan.ps@education.vic.gov.au

For further information contact Principal Karly Duncombe 5766 2221

Closing date Monday, April 8, 2024

Classroom Teaching Position available. Full time Fixed term contract till the end of year with possibility of ongoing.

PROCUREMENT & PRE PRODUCTION MANAGER

Full-time

About Us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do as a business.

Our portfolio has grown over time to now include market leading wine brands such as: Devil’s Corner from the East Coast of Tasmania, Tamar Ridge and Pirie from Tamar Valley Tasmania, Innocent Bystander from the Yarra Valley and of course Brown Brothers from Milawa Victoria the spiritual home of our business.

About the role: Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain the main responsibilities of this role include:

Lead the strategic procurement process for all material suppliers and key supply partners across the business.

Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers of all key materials and supply partners and be responsible for the administration and negotiation of supplier agreements including reviews, tenders, contracts and SRM.

Lead and manage the Pre Production team to ensure all work is carried out in alignment to our Supply Chain values including safety, people, quality, service and cost.

Oversee broader Pre Production team responsibilities of Packaging Development and Quality Assurance to maintain an efficient and effective flow of materials into Packaging.

About you: The successful candidate will have specialist knowledge of procurement concepts, processes, activities, and contract management. You will have a degree or ASCI qualified, with procurement, supply chain management or logistics accreditation. You will also have:

Strong negotiation skills with the ability to communicate professionally and effectively at all levels of the business

Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team, use initiative and lead teams in a collaborative manner

Advanced analytical interpretation and problem solving skills

Sound knowledge of ERP/MRP principles and purchasing processes

Preferred experience within the wine industry or FMCG business

Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in PC-based applications (such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and/or Access)

Skills and values consistent with our company values.

Current drivers’ licence.

What’s on Offer:

Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies

Career development

Be part of a passionate and dedicated team

Great Place to Work Certified

Generous employee benefits including discounted wine products, volunteer days, additional purchased leave, discounts on health insurance and access to our EAP

Workplace flexibility

Are you an enthusiastic teacher looking to work in a small school environment in the beautiful King Valley. The position is for our senior classroom, instructing 19 delightful students. You will be working with a dedicated team of teachers, support staff and parents. We provide ‘exceptional educational experiences’ and value respect, empathy and curiosity.

Applications are invited now.

For more information

Support for relocation costs for the right candidate

Tel: 03 5729 8286 or 0407 827 789

or visit Recruitment online, job number 1406849

More Information:  Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing Allyce Henwood at careers@ brownfwg.com.au or by calling (03) 5720 5500.

Applications will close on 14 April 2024

FOR SALE

2018 Toyota Fortuner in excellent condition for sale, 148,000km, driving like new, dealership serviced with history available, $36,000 ONO, reg (1NM6IH).

Call Tim 0400 573 387.

2009 PJ/PK Ford Ranger XL Hi Rider 4x2 Crew Cab 5sp auto 3.0DT, 164,500km, rego (ZHZ 981), plenty of extras long range fuel tank, reverse camera, cruise control, canopy, towbar, UHF radio and more, service records, comes with RWC, $10,000 ono, any other enquiries phone 0407 050 406.

REDUCED!

2010 NT Pajero Platinum

3.2 L turbo diesel, 253,400km, reg Dec ‘24 (ZQJ384), bull bar, driving lights, redarc brake controller, UHF, aux 120 AH AGM battery, BC DC charger, rear suspension airbags, full service and m aintenance history, $17,000. Ph 0417 751 534.

HAY Liner 68, New Holland, new tyres VGC, $4400. Ph 5726 9224, Peechelba.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

FIREWOOD redgum, mixed, 10m load delivered, smaller loads pick up. Phone North East Firewood 0448 933 999.

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

PLANTS and trees all $2, lots of tools, plant stands and plenty more, all has to go, 2 Lucas Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0484 297 122.

STIHL 441 Chainsaw, 70cc, in excellent condition, $900. Ph 0427 216 245.

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

YOUNG Guinea Fowle. Ph 0429 928 220.

If you don't use it...

5723 0101

Personal Notices

To the lovely person who found my purse in the toilets near Spotlight and handed it to the police. Just a very grateful thank you.

Rhonda.

FIRTH, Margaret. March 21, 2003.

Loving memories of my Mum.

Always in my heart.

~ Love Sharon x.

BELL, Anita. 30/5/1971 – 16/3/2024

The family of Anita are saddened to announce her passing on March 16, 2024. Aged 52 years. Passed away peacefully. Much loved daughter of Milton. Sister and sister-in-law of Andrew, Linda and Bipa.

STEVENSON, Alexia “Lexy”.

TANNER, Ron.

Loved brother-in-law of Malcolm and Agnus Kendall. Uncle of Trish, Fran (dec), Richard, Heath and families.

Deepest sympathy to Jill and families.

WATSON, Robert George “Bob”.

Loved brother-in -law of Angela, Uncle to Gary, Tammie, Rodney and Peter.

Always up for a chat and ‘discussion’.

Long lasting memories of a great man.

FUNERALS

STEVENSON

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Alexia “Lex” Verna Stevenson will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, March 25, 2024 commencing at 2pm Burial will follow the service at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

WATSON

The service to celebrate the life of Robert George “Bob” Watson will be held in the Wangaratta Rovers Club Rooms, Evans Street Wangaratta, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, commencing at 1.30pm. A private cremation will follow.

Bob’s celebration can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

COGAN, Kyle Steven. 7/8/1987 – 27/2/2024

BELL

The service to celebrate the life of Anita Bell will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street Wangaratta, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, commencing at 2pm. A private cremation will follow.

Anita can be made to Cancer Council. Donations can be made online at https://www.cancer.org.au/get-involved/ donate-to-cancer-council

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

SAPUNAR

We have been completely overwhelmed by and the support following the loss of our beautiful son Kyle.

To all our family and friends who attended Kyle’s funeral service and those who livestreamed, shows us the impact he had on many, many people.

A huge thank you to Ron Webb for the reading of Kyle’s eulogy, and the kind Faye, and Denise.

Funerals, we will be forever grateful for your kindness, guidance, patience and caring in

Lions Club and Superior Joinery for your continued inclusion and mateship to Kyle.

WANTED

WANT to buy Toyota HiAce Camper Van and Small Caravan. Call Brendan 0402 113 112.

REGENT Cruise SE, Series 3, pop up caravan, 17ft 6in, new annex and new roll out, $18,500

Aunty to Sophie and Mia. Always in our hearts.

SAPUNAR, Petar.

31/1/1938 - 15/3/2024

Dearly loved husband of Katica “Kathy”. Loved father of Duro, Maria, Maggie, and their partners Trent, Ben and Uschi. Adored Nonno of Adam, Ryan, Tom and Joshua.

STEVENSON (nee Wills), Alexia “Lex” Verna.

24/9/1931 – 16/3/2024

Loved wife of Tom (dec). Loved mother and stepmother of Tom (dec), Beatrice (Powley), Judi (dec) and Ian (dec). Mother-in-law of and Jacqui. Loved grandmother to 13 grandchildren,18 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral prayers to celebrate the life of Petar will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford, commencing at 11am. Petar’s service can be viewed via live stream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au /live-stream

you for your unwavering support and always being there when we needed you, thus ensuring that we were able to spend quality time with Kyle.

~ Rod and Jenny.

“Forever Heartbroken.”

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

BENNETT, Betty Irene.

22/4/1941 – 13/2/2024

The family of the late Betty Irene Bennett, wish to express our sincere gratitude to everyone for their messages of sympathy, passing of our Mum.

From all of us – thank you to family, friends, colleagues, and our community for your ongoing support during this time.

Special thank you to Jim, Dot and Max, Rosemary, Mary, June, and Leanne for visits and phone calls, keeping in contact with Mum during her illness.

Thank you to Dr Paul Molina Chavez, the District Nursing team (especially Robyn, Dan, and Zita), and the Community Support team, (especially Emmeline and Kathy), - we will be forever grateful for your exemplary care and compassion.

Thank you to everyone who attended Mum’s farewell, to those who travelled to be there, and to those who were thinking of us who were unable to make it on the day.

Thanks to Mark and all at Mason Park who put together the day Mum wanted and for the support provided to our family.

A big thank you to all involved with catering – Moyhu CWA and Lou for organising and making all the food, and Sue and Lou for all their work on the day.

We are very appreciative and thankful for the kindness and care shown by so many.

~ Rosalie, Darryl,

The ultimate guide for tourists and locals

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford

Winner

A Grade: Joseph Marjanovic Jnr 41.

B Grade: Gordon Hines 39.

C Grade: Attila Kungle 41.

D Grade: Robert Skase 38, Michael Lugg 36.

Ball winners: Rodney Sabire 38, Gordon Patterson 38, Darren Jones

37, Steve Smith 37, John McKenzie

37, Stan Goldworthy 37, Bronte Bruce 36, Colin Braden 36, Danny Potter 36, Allen Bastin 35, Chris Palmer 35, Andrew Charles 35, Paul Stacey 35, Neville Hogan 34, Eric Smith 34, Mark Flack 34.

NTP: 4th Gordon Patterson Super 9, 8th Peter Glidden Shirt Dave Anderson 22, 13th Steve Smith Aroma Deli Libby Smith 21, 17th Mark Hall 2 balls Gordon Paterson from many 21.

Monday, March 18

Stableford

Winner: Roger Henderson 40.

Ball Winners: Roger Barker 35, Andy Walker 30.

NTP: 8th Roger Henderson.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending March 17

March 12

Women’s 9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Candice Jones.

Runner: Lorraine Adams.

March 12

Women’s 18 hole 4BBB

Winner: Nora Martin and Lesley Anderson 43 points.

Runner Up: Di Phillips and Jill Halbwidl 41 points C/B.

Ball Winners: Barb Woodward and Sue McCall 41 points.

NTP: 9th Nora Martin.

Wednesday, March 13

Men’s Competition

18 Hole Stroke

Winner: Bobby Hutchhison 68 nett C/B.

Runner Up: Trevor Trimble 68 nett.

Ball Winners: Matthew Walsh, Phillip Winnell, Graeme Ray, Denis Hill, Brian Thomas, Bill Dodd, Andrew Raison, Mark Hall, Neil McKinnon.

9th Trevor Clark, 11th Bobby Hutchieson, 13th Brian Thomas, 16th Matthew Walsh.

9 Hole Stroke

Winner: Peter King 31 nett C/B.

Runner Up: John Walker 31 nett.

Ball Winners: Grame Beale 32 nett.

Friday, March 15

Twilight 9 Hole Medley

Winner: Tracey Mckinnon 20 C/B Points.

Runner Up: Frazer Dale 20 Points.

Men’s Competition: Presidents Gold Cup

Saturday, March 16

18 Hole Stableford

A Grade Winner: Paul Smithwick 39 Points.

A Grade Runner Up: Bob Murray 38 Points.

B Grade Winner: Peter King 43 Points.

B Grade Runner Up: David Lawson 39 Points.

Ball Winners: Jack Stamp, Cam Nottle, Dylan Stone, Tyler Smith, Brendan Reid, Al McLean, Darren Hovey, Mark Comensoli, Josh Owen, Gary Stone, Colin Walker, Joe Antic, Craig Donoghue, Matt Fischer, Arnold Sparks.

NTP: 4th Cam Nottlee, 7th Jarred Clark, 9th Darren Hovey, 11th Tom McAtee, 16th Josh Owen.

Secret Six: Greg Sullivan.

Birdie: Greg Sullivan.

Raffle Winner: Bob Murray.

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford Winner: Barb Woodward 37 Points.

Runner Up: Dawn Fleet 31 Points.

NTP: 11th Dawn Fleet, 13th Barb Woodward.

Sunday, March 17

Medley Stableford

18 Hole Winner: Connor Forde 44 Points.

18 Hole Runner Up: Dion Ploegmakers.

Ball Winners: Tracey Mckinnon, Neil Mckinnon.

9 Hole Winner: Ross Brown 19 Points.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

Tarrawingee Golf Club results

Saturday, March 16.

The members played a stableford event for the Captain’s Trophy and thanks to the members responsible for the condition of the course though the scores didn’t reflect how well it was.

The winner of the Captain’s Trophy was Mark Nolan with 27pts, runner up on a countback was Ken Miller 26 pts.

There were no nearest the pins for the day.

Golf to be played on Saturday, March 23 will be the Opening Day mixed Pinehurst SOP.

Hit off times will be 11:30am for a 12:00 noon start.

Members to bring a plate, thank you.

Members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428 122 590 or by contacting a member of the club.

Tarra Ladies

Tarrawingee ladies played a 9-hole stableford event on Tuesday, March 19 managing to get off the course before the Heavens opened up.

Lynn Barrow was the winner with 14 points and Audrey Bradfield scored a ball with 13 points.

Nearest the Pin on the 13th was Di McLaughlin.

WANGARATTA PICKLEBALL

Round 18 results:

Section 1

Sue Simsen 53 - 32, Bryan Wilson 52 - 34, Trish Phyland 41 - 45, Mandy Hanratty 40 - 45, Steve Johnston 30 - 60.

Section 2

Phil Densten 59 - 51, Klaus Kazenwadel 58 - 52, Tracy Loyst 5357, Neville Bell 50 - 60.

Section 3

Tyson Chivers 60 - 32, Graeme Cripps 50 - 45, Judith Pollard 43 - 52, Tim Dickinson 42 - 47, Chris Jamieson 39 - 58.

Section 4

Molly Booth 60 - 41, Andrew Howse 52 - 55, Ken Gaudion 5150, David Edwards 42 - 56, Jane Wachter 41 - 52.

Section 5

Courtney Mackinnon 60 - 27

Donna Westcott 47 - 36 Marg Newton 40 - 38 Georgia McGuffie 32 - 51 Erin Matthews 29 - 56.

Aggregate best 13 scores

Gaudion, Ken 655/595, Kazenwadel, Klaus 652/533, Dickinson, Tim 648/588, Phyland, Trish 641/561, Bell, Neville 592/651, Wilson, Bryan 585/315, Johnston, Steve 569/581, Booth, Molly 541/489, Reid, Jennifer 514/605, Wachter, Jane 497/441, Simsen, Sue

of Albury taking out second prize.

Playing days are Monday,

Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 9am and Wednesday at 6pm.

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

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

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

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

WARBY WALKERS

Saturday, March 16

Mt Samaria Walks

These walks were in fine weather and were enjoyed by seven members.

The park has beautiful shady forests of tall Blue Gums and Mountain Grey Gums with an understorey including wattles, dogwood, and bracken.

Both the short and long walks started together at the Spring Creek Picnic Area which has the sawmill kiln ruins from bygone logging days.

We followed the Mt Samaria Road to Butcher’s Track then to the Tramline Track which took us to the ruins of the braking station where we enjoyed our morning tea. Returning along the Tramline Track to Butchers Track then taking the Lightning Track to Rocky Knoll which is an elevated point at 983m.

We then divided into groups of 3 and 4 with the group of three continuing along the Lightning Track descending to the start of the walk at the Spring Creek Picnic Area.

491/436, Cripps, Graeme 480/522, Allen, Geoff 464/455, Reid, Nancy 436/489, Reid, Michael 436/522, Loyst, Tracy 388/443, McGuffie, Georgia 355/440, Howse, Andrew 348/424, Pollard, Judith 340/315, Mackinnon, Courtney 329/210, Jenkin, Teague 319/254, Matthews, Erin 315/422, Densten, Phil 302/244, Jamieson, Chris 302/366, Bell, Scott 301/279, Newton, Marg 275/331, Westcott, Donna 273/241, Chivers, Tyson 166/98, Edwards, David 143/148, Jones, Clive 141/145, Buss, Brad 137/125, Hanratty, Mandy 133/142, Ross, Michelle 132/290, Buss, Shelley 127/154, Goudie, Les 116/92, Boyd, Noel 101/95, O’Brien, Russel 86/109, De Caneva, Carlo 85/88, O’Brien, Helen 55/53, Diaz 41/60.

CROQUET

Results for Monday, March 18 are as follows:

Margaret Bennett and Nathan Reynolds d Gabi Heywood and Joan Dyson 7/3, Lauren Kazenwadel and Gavan Kelly d Cheryle Beckley and Janet Kelly 7/3.

Last Saturday, Lauren Kazenwadel achieved a direct hit on an opposition ball from 22 yards.

On Thursday, March 14, 32 players from seven clubs attended a Social Day at the club in Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

Gerald Milton and Dawn McQuilton of Wodonga tied on four wins and nineteen net hoops, with Gerald taking a three hoop decider 2/1.

Jump shot winner was Harley Knott of Wodonga with two successful jump shots.

Raffle winner was Chris. Lloyd of Yarrawonga with Helen Collins

The short walk group completed a walk of approximately 9k.

Meanwhile the group of four took the Mt Samaria Track to the Mt Samaria peak of 953m stopping for lunch along the way.

After reaching the peak this group returned downhill via the Summit Link Track to the Wild Dog Creek Camping Area for a snack break then continued onto the Spring Creek Picnic Area to complete their walk and enjoy afternoon tea.

The long walk group completed a walk of approximately 14k.

Now for the more entertaining news of the day’s walk.

Several of those in the group had difficulty staying upright on today’s adventure including the walk leader.

Coming Events

Wednesday, March 27

Orchard Track, Stanley State Forest (Lesley, 0439 776 687).

This is a medium walk of approx 9k, and whilst not a difficult walk, there are a few steep sections; mostly 4wd CFA tracks, and a couple of well-formed bush tracks. Beginning at Lady Newton Drive we pass Bates Dam, after which there are great views over Murmungee Basin.

Monday, April 1 South Walk and Dickson Falls, Mount Buffalo National Park (Michael, 0447 617 880).

Two easy walks on top of Mount Buffalo.

Dickson Falls is an easy walk of about 4k, followed by the South Walk, an easy walk of about 8k, a total of about 12k.

Walking on bush tracks in the Mount Buffalo NP, excellent views from the South Buffalo Viewpoint.

KNOCK IT IN: Matt Niedra hits a putt at the Wangaratta Golf Club.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Hill reaches world number one

WANGARATTA tennis champion

Michelle Hill is the number one doubles player in the world in her age group after being bestowed the honour in the latest International Tennis Federation (ITF) Masters doubles rankings.

Hill’s ascent to the top of the world rankings follows a summer of sustained success where she won tournaments at state and national level, excelling in all three formats of competition; singles, doubles and mixed

Hill’s golden run started last November when she claimed the winner’s title in singles, doubles and mixed at the Victorian Claycourt Championships in Melbourne without losing a set.

A few weeks later at the Victorian Grasscourt Championships in Yarrawonga she emulated that feat, once again winning all three events in straight sets.

In early January, Hill travelled to Hobart for the Masters National Championships which featured not only Australia’s best players but also several players from overseas.

During the week long competition conditions were horrendous with winds reaching 40-45kms per hour every day.

At the completion of a gruelling week of tennis, Hill emerged as the 2024 Australian champion in singles and doubles and was runner up in the mixed doubles.

By accumulating ranking points in the aforementioned tournaments Hill was within touching distance of reaching the summit of the world rankings but there was one significant obstacle blocking her path to the top, the need to perform well against a strong field in the Oceania

titles held March 7-11.

The week started well for Hill but she experienced a stumble losing in the semi final of the singles.

Two hours later Hill had to back up for the doubles final facing the same opponent who had beaten her in the singles.

Hill and her partner Wanda Howes played at a consistently high level of tennis for the duration of the match to win 6-3 6-1 and thereby gained Hill enough rankings points to reach the coveted pole position in the world rankings for her age group.

On the last day of the Oceania competition Hill also had a memorable win in the final of the mixed doubles teaming with Melbourne based player Stephen Sharp to defeat Howes and her partner John Brunner in straight sets with all four players playing well and varying their tactics in order to gain an advantage over their opponents.

In between tournaments Hill also played in the club championships of the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club winning the singles, doubles and mixed.

After a month off tennis Hill will be heading to Mexico in late April for the Masters World Championships where once again she will be captain of the Australian team in her age group.

Hill will be playing in the teams event week one followed by the individual titles in week two.

After reaching career high world rankings in the past year, doubles (1), singles (2) and mixed (4), Hill will obviously be a threat in all three events and she is hoping to at least equal her bronze medal in 2022 (teams event) and bronze (doubles) in 2023.

Written Advice after second Adrian Ledger Memorial win

By WILLSON MACK

LEDGER Racing will be hoping Written Advice can add a second Adrian Ledger Memorial victory to her CV at Albury today.

The seven-year-old mare took out the 2022 edition of the race named after John and Kerri Ledger’s late son Adrian, who was tragically killed in a race fall at Corowa in 2005.

Written Advice is currently a $16 chance and has been in strong form of late winning twice in her last four starts, while she ran second at Albury last start.

“She’s a massive chance,” John Ledger said.

“Her form has been fantastic, she won two in a row only a few starts ago and was unlucky at Benalla two starts back where she finished fourth.

“As long as the track firms up and the sun and wind dries it out a bit I think she’ll be around the mark.

“Previously we gave her a run before the Adrian Ledger Memorial but we decided not to this time but her work has been really good.”

The Adrian Ledger Memorial is now in its 18th edition and Ledger said his family is still incredibly grateful the race is run in their sons honour.

“We’ve won the race six times now and we always try and put our best foot forward,” he said.

“For us we don’t care who wins the race though, we’re just grate-

ful that people want to win it.

“We thank Racing NSW and the Albury Turf Club for their patronage of the race.

“I’ve had a few chats with people at Racing NSW and have said that if the race has run it’s course and they want to move on we completely understand but for now they still love having it on which is great.”

Ledger said his family is lucky they get to celebrate the life of Adrian every year but understand other families don’t get the same opportunity.

“The legacy of this race is that it’s not just for Adrian, it’s for every jockey that has been killed or injured in a race fall,” he said.

“We’re lucky in a way that Adrian is remembered every year but some other families aren’t as fortunate.

“It’s been 19 years now and it only seems like yesterday we lost him.”

The Ledger stable will have another three runners in action tomorrow with Sonic Cry (race one), Killawarra Lass (race three) and Rich Result (race four) all in action.

“Sonic Cry is probably out of his depth,” Ledger said.

“Killawarra Lass won a similar race at Albury and is always thereabouts so she’ll be steaming home again.

“Rich Result was a really good horse over in Adelaide before suffering an injury but her last trial indicated to me she’s in good shape and could run a handy race.”

NUMBER ONE: Michelle Hill is now the number one doubles player for her age group.

PHOTO: Trackpix Photography

Croquet delight at Wangaratta club’s social day

ON Thursday, March 14, Wangaratta Croquet Club hosted 32 players from Albury, Benalla, Euroa, Mooroopna, Howlong, Wodonga and Yarrawonga clubs at their March Social Day.

PHOTOS: Terry Wilson

DRIVE: Anne Murray from Euroa prepares to whack the ball down the green.

WATCH CLOSELY:

Rovers female football expands

their female football program to include under 12s.

The North East Border Female Football league recently announced that in 2024 it would run an introductory six week season for a new age group of under 12s to

join the under 14s and under 17s.

Wangaratta Rovers are keen to increase participation by growing its program through junior teams.

“We are keen to hear from any potential players interested in female footy, of all ages, but particularly juniors,” said female football opera-

tions manager, Bron McGorlick.

“We have space in our under 14s team for new players, and can’t wait to have new under 12s players along to training.”

Any players already in Auskick or playing in a junior football league team are also able to join

and play for Wangaratta Rovers in the NEBFFL.

“We have some players who are playing junior league on Saturday and for Rovers on Sunday - they just love footy and make real improvements with the additional training and games that Rovers

offer,” McGorlick said.

The junior female football teams train on Thursday nights from 5:30pm to 7pm.

STATE OF PLAY: Maria Harvey (Beechworth), Irene Clift (Benalla), Jenny Grose (Mooroopna), Helen Collins (Albury), and Ken Darling (Wodonga) in the heat of the game.

POINT BLANK: Paul Jeffries from Albury knocks the ball through.

ALL SMILES: Jenny Grose (Mooroopna) and Irene Clift (Benalla) enjoy the social fun of croquet.

TO THE HOOP: Gerald Milton from Wodonga lines up the shot.

Gayle Dudgeon (Mooroopna) and Paul Murray (Euroa) keep a close eye on John Durieux (Howlong) as he prepares to make his play.

FEMALE FOOTY: Mia Simpson gets a kick away in front of teammates Lily Currie-Fraser (left) and Paige Lee-Dummet (centre) for Rovers’ juniors.

WANGARATTA Rovers are expanding

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association

THE Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s senior premiers will be crowned this weekend.

While the A grade clash between Rovers United Bruck and Yarrawonga Mulwala will be the main event, grand final winners will also be determined in the A Reserve, B grade and C grade.

The A reserve two-day clash will be the same affair as the A grade, with Yarrawonga Mulwala hosting Rovers United Bruck.

It’s a decider not many would’ve picked with the Lakers finishing third and the Hawks in fourth.

Yarrawonga Mulwala will be seen as favourites after eliminating minor premiers Wangaratta Magpies with a 47-run victory.

Lakers skipper and opening batter Ben McDonald made 60 in the win and will be a prized wicket of Rovers United Bruck.

In the B grade (one day), Milawa will be looking to upset Benalla Bushrangers who have dropped just the one game this season, back in round one to Greta.

It won’t be a shock if Milawa pull an upset off though after falling just twice this season.

Milawa boasts the grade’s Cricket of the Year and leading run scorer (581 runs) in Nathan de Vries, while Kris

GRAND FINAL PREVIEWS: March 23 and 24 2023/24 season

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

Allan sits atop of the wickettakers column with 33 poles (including finals), alongside Benalla’s Leigh Pollard.

De Vries said he knows his side is up against it but will back his side in.

“For us, we’ve got a great bunch of blokes who love playing cricket together so we’re looking forward to having a crack this weekend,” de Vries said.

“Benalla have a dangerous batting line up that is capable of chasing totals quickly, along with good bowlers so it’ll be a challenge.

“This year we’ve had players willing to stand up and win the games so hopefully that’s the case on the weekend.

“Kris Allan has been on fire with the ball this year so I’m expecting him to challenge their batters.”

Milawa and Benalla last met in round nine where the Bushrangers pulled away to a massive win.

In the C grade (one day), Beechworth Wanderers take on Greta.

Like the A reserve, the third (Greta) and fourth (Beechworth) placed sides take on each other in the decider.

Plenty of grand final action ahead

■ From back page “It seems to be instilled in our culture whenever you get the ball in your hand and you’re playing for our club, you hit the top of off and that’s all you need to do.

“‘Gus’ (Angus) Heslin, he’s come back to the club this year and he’s been unreal.”

Clarke said the Hawks would pose a massive challenge.

“We’re expecting a tight one this weekend, we’ve had some good battles with them over the years and I don’t think it’s going to be any different,” he said.

“It’s a good toss to win, both teams will be looking to bat first on the Saturday.”

RUB skipper Paddy McNamara said having both A grade and A reserve in the decider was a great effort from the club as a whole.

“It’ll be a good event, with A reserve right next door as well - having our A reserve side in it also is pretty special for the club,” he said.

“We’ve found our form with both bat and ball in the last couple of weeks, we’ve had to build into it over the course of the season.

“We’ve had rough patches throughout, but we’ve been able to remain pretty consistent, and we’ve hit our straps ready for this weekend.

“You always enjoy playing Yarrawonga, it doesn’t matter where it is, it’s always a great game of cricket.

“They’re probably the best two-day in the comp, they haven’t lost a game in the twoday format yet, so it’s going to be a really tough contest for us.”

The A grade grand final between Yarrawonga Mulwala and Rovers United Bruck takes place across Saturday and Sunday at Bill O’Callaghan Oval – each day’s play is set to commence from 1pm.

MINOR PREMIERS: Yarrawonga Mulwala go into the grand final as favourites after finishing the home and away season on top.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

GRAND FINAL’S HERE: Jon Hyde and Rovers United Bruck take on Yarrawonga Mulwala in the A reserve final.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

Wangaratta City men ready for Albury City showdown

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City will be looking to make it back-to-back wins to start the AWFA season when they meet Albury City on Sunday.

After downing St Pat’s 3-1 in their season opener, the Devils now take on Albury City at South Wangaratta Reserve who surprisingly fell to 2-1 to Melrose last weekend.

“Albury City are coached by a guy that used to be at Murray United so they’ll be a well drilled side,” Wangaratta coach Raff Molinaro said.

“Despite who they don’t have or do have they’re always a tough side and we’ve had some good battles over the past few seasons.

“I’m sure it’ll be no different this weekend.”

While the Devils weren’t at full strength in their first round clash, they’re hoping to see a few inclusions for their clash with City, one of those being new face Tom Humphries.

“We should see a new player in Tom Humphries who relocated to Wangaratta from Melbourne for work which will be exciting,” Molinaro said.

“He played State League 3 for Middle Park which is a good standard, it’ll be good to see him in action.”

Round one saw a number of unpredicted results including Albury City’s loss to Melrose, with Cobram and Albury Hotspurs drawing and United only beating Boomers by one goal.

“It’s hard to tell what Albury City will be like,” Molinaro said.

“There were a number of surprising results in round one so we’ll just focus on ourselves for the next few weeks until we get a gauge of where everyone sits.

“Consistency is the key for us, we want to play the same every week so we’ll continue to work towards that.”

Lady Devils to commence season

PHOTO: Kat De Naps

AFTER sitting out last weekend with the bye, Wangaratta City FC’s senior women will take to the ground this Sunday in their first round of the AWFA season.

The Lady Devils will host Albury City on Sunday at South Wangaratta, with the match commencing from 11.20am.

After a tremendous 2023 run, the Lady Devils will be keen to continue the momentum built up at training, with new coach Terry Masters overjoyed with the numbers available for selection.

“We’ve got good numbers, our side won’t be too bad - we’ve got close to 30 players to pick from for the two sides,” he said.

“It’ll start to create selection pressure, people will have to train to get selected.

“We’ve got quite a few youngsters coming through who are looking very promising, they’re all in that 16, 17, 18 age group.

“We’ll probably be a bit rusty because we’ve only had the one practice game, and that wasn’t with the full team – with commitments over the summer, it’s very hard to get everyone together.

“We’re starting to get good numbers at training, so we’re looking forward to it, and I dare say we will improve as the year goes on.”

Masters said improvements and playing their own brand of football would not only lead to the Lady Devils soaring up the ladder this season, but also building for the future.

“Obviously we want to chal-

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

lenge for the championship, but I want to not only play a good brand of football but also blood some players and get them experience in playing first team football,” he said.

“We’re trying to get a group of girls together that will be there for the next number of years, get players back to the club who may have come away, and we’ve got a couple back this year and hopefully a couple more will come back.

“From a football perspective, you don’t know what the other teams are going to be like, but certainly our first aim is finals and then once you know what the opposition is like, you’d want to be pushing towards the top four.

“If things roll your way and you get some results, you never know what can happen.

“We don’t know what we’re up against yet, and we probably won’t know until we get halfway through the season - there are good vibes around the place, so that’s the main thing.”

The division two women will hope to continue their winning ways after downing St Pat’s 2-1 with a youthful side last weekend.

The reserve match against Albury City commences at 9.50am on Sunday at South Wangaratta, with the senior game set for an 11.20am kick-off

ON: Wangaratta City FC’s senior women begin their AWFA campaign this Sunday at South Wangaratta.

Photography

NEW ADDITION: Tom Humphries will play his first game for Wangaratta City.

PHOTO: Wangaratta City Facebook

Thursday, March

St

Friday, March 22

Adelaide

Saturday, March 23

North Melbourne vs. Fremantle (MRVL)

Hawthorn vs. Melbourne (MCG) (T)

Sydney Swans vs. Essendon (SCG) (N)

Sunday, March 24

Western Bulldogs vs. Gold Coast SUNS (MARS)

Richmond vs. Port Adelaide (MCG) (T)

West Coast Eagles vs. GWS GIANTS (OS) (N)

Byes: Brisbane Lions, Carlton

Fitting finale

A grade decider between Rovers United Bruck and Yarrawonga Mulwala is set to be a cracker gg

THE A grade final between Yarrawonga Mulwala and Rovers United Bruck this weekend is set to be one for the ages.

The two benchmark teams of the competition this season will meet across Saturday and Sunday at Bill O’Callaghan Oval, battling it

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

out for the Geoff Welch Cup. It’s sure to be two scintillating days of top-notch cricket, with both sides boasting incredible batting

and bowling depth.

Yarrawonga Mulwala has been the pinnacle of the long form game this season, coming into the decider with a flawless two-day record.

Conversely, RUB has stumbled at times this season, but their tenacity and willingness to grind out

tough results has seen them through to the last game of competition.

Laker Reid Clarke said his squad would enter the match with well-founded confidence in their team and their ability to win.

“Overall, there’s a sense of confidence heading into

Saturday and Sunday - we’re really happy with where we’re at going into the big one, we’re ready to go,” he said.

“I’d say we’ve definitely turned the corner this year with sharing the load across the team.

“There have been differ-

ent stages throughout the year where someone or one or two blokes that have stood up and won the game for us.

“It’s something that’s been a feature of our game over the last 10 years, our bowling.

■ Continued page 40

THE DECIDER: Yarrawonga Mulwala’s Reid Clarke (wicket keeping) and Rovers United Bruck’s Paddy McNamara (batting) will go head to head this weekend for the A grade title.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling.