Chronicle Wednesday 220524

ANALYSIS ONGOING: Wangaratta police continue to investigate a series of small explosive device detonations across the city over the past two months, including one at the

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A FURTHER two improvised explosive device detonations on Monday night are being investigated by Wangaratta police. The small explosions occurred within 40 minutes of each other on the corner of Ovens and Docker streets at around 7:20pm, followed by another explosion at the intersection of Greta and Tone roads at around 8pm.

Police and fire crews attended and investigated the scenes. The two detonations take to eight the total number of explosions reported in the city over the past five weeks. The first of the recorded explosions occurred at George Street on April 13 at around 9:25pm, and preceded incidents at the Rowan Street underpass, intersection of Ryley and Perry Streets, Ovens Street near the

front of a school, Crammond Street and Ryley Street.

Senior Constable Aidan Hogan of Wangaratta police said all improvised explosive devices have contained an unknown substance inside of a plastic bottle, which has caused it to have a chemical reaction.

“We’re having it all analysed to find out exactly what that material or substance is,” he said.

■ Continued page 3

WAITING GAME

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club members’ wait for a new home is set to continue, after the Rural City of Wangaratta missed out on a hoped-for $4 million Federal Government boost.

KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

Club president Michael Chambeyron said he was “not surprised, but disappointed” that council’s application for Growing Regions Program cash was unsuccessful. If it had received the funds, council planned to

match the $4 million to establish a community hub and an intergenerational play and exercise area on the former Olympic Pool site in Swan Street.

These projects form the first stage of the rural city’s Wareena Park Masterplan, which was adopted in mid2020 and is among council’s

highest-ranking advocacy priorities.

The hub has been mentioned as a potential fit for the long-promised home of the senior citizens club, which has been based ‘temporarily’ at Ford Street’s Tara Court complex since its original clubrooms made way for

Wangaratta’s BIG W store.

Mr Chambeyron said the senior citizens club was assured at that time that provision would be made by council for new clubrooms - a wait which has extended beyond 20 years.

“The club has been waiting a long time, and there will be disappointment

for a lot of members,” he said.

“There are still a few members around who were there and can remember handing over their building.

“It is disappointing, but practically speaking, you’ve got to realise that things are tight.

■ Continued page 2

Rowan Street underpass on April 18 (pictured). PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Call for more blood donors as reserves dip to critical levels

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross

Lifeblood has issued an immediate call for donors as their reserves of most blood types drop to critical levels.

Without a significant boost in people donating, Lifeblood says its supplies will soon be at their lowest level this year.

Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said blood and plasma are required to treat a number of life-threaten-

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

ing conditions and their use continues to grow each year.

She said Wangaratta Donor Centre needs an additional 26 people to donate this week.

“We need donors of all blood types to donate this

week to prevent a shortage and meet demand for patients,” Ms Burns said.

“Blood appeals will be ongoing this winter, unless blood donation becomes a habit for more Australians, and not just something people do when there is an urgent need.

“You can donate blood once every three months and plasma as often as every two weeks.

“If you’re aged between 18 and 75, weigh more than 50kgs and feeling well, you may be able to donate.”

Just one donation could save up to three lives.

Lifeblood executive director of donor experience, Cath Stone, has urged both new donors and those who haven’t donated for some time to donate now.

“Almost 4000 bags of blood are needed by

hospitals every day across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and for a range of other medical conditions,” she said.

“With one in three of us needing donated blood in our lifetime, the life you save could be that of a friend or family member, so please don’t wait, book now.

“Fewer than three per

cent of the population donate blood regularly, yet more than 58 per cent are eligible to donate.”

Lifeblood Wangaratta Donor Centre is on Norton Street and is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11am to 6:30pm and Fridays from 7:30am to 2:30pm. To book an appointment call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.

Senior citizens club disappointed as council misses out on its federal $4m Wareena bid

■ from page 1

“A lot of people are feeling the pinch (in the current economic climate), and it’s unfortunately all part of what’s happening as a result of COVID.

“We hoped council would receive the funding, but the way things have panned out for the Victorian and Federal governments, I am not surprised.

“Hopefully we are still on the list; you’ve just got to hope.”

Rural city director community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan said there were no other funding avenues on the horizon at this stage to progress the Wareena Park Masterplan.

“We will keep looking,” he said.

As well as the former pool site, which was cleared in 2021,

MERRY

OF THE

the Wareena Park Masterplan takes in Wareena Park Oval, Coronation Kindergarten and the soon-to-be-vacated Wareena Park Bowls Club.

Its vision is to transform the area into a “multi-generational place for all”.

Beyond the first stage, projects planned are a picnic and gathering space; nature-based adventure play/recreational area; events lawn; main carpark reconfiguration; wayfinding, signage and improvements to Wareena Park Oval; new sports entrance, drop–off area and car park; junior play and spectator viewing area; seating options; Coronation Kindergarten entrance/exit; cycling launch spot; and fitness circuits, with preservation of existing significant trees.

Council had also been awaiting the outcome of Growing Regions Program funding for three other projects:

• a joint submission with North East Water for an integrated water management project to connect a new 233-lot development on Clarkes Lane in South Wangaratta;

• $1.5 million to progress the Wangaratta Creative Arts Precinct; and

• a joint project with Tourism North East and Indigo Shire aimed at improving the rail trail that would connect to the King Valley.

None of these were listed among the 40 successful projects announced last week as recipients of round one Growing Regions Program funding.

Forget the gum tree, this kookaburra settled into a vantage spot on the fence at Corowa’s John

on Saturday, as the home team was doing battle with the visiting Wangaratta side. Appearing to enjoy the action, especially when it was not happening too close to its fence-top seat, it’s imagined the kookaburra might have been barracking for the team named after a fellow winged creature.

Simone Kerwin

Among those which did win funding were stage one of a community wellbeing hub for Seymour ($15m); redevelopment of Echuca’s Victoria Park complex as a multi-purpose community and emergency relief centre ($11.3m); repairs to Mansfield’s Lord’s Reserve to improve social interaction and community engagement ($1.4m); and redevelopment of the Benalla Art Gallery ($2.9 million).

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the projects were chosen after a full merit-based selection process. Applications for a second round of Growing Regions Program funding are expected to open this year.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

STILL A BLANK CANVASS: The vacant site (pictured) of the former Olympic Pool in Swan Street, together will the accompanying Wareena Park precinct, will remain as they are for now after missing out on federal funding.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

MERRY,

KING

BUSH:

Foord Oval

PHOTO:

Precious history stolen in CFA Bowser-Murmungee break in

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A LOCAL CFA captain is pleading for the recovery of stolen meeting minutes dating back more than 100 years from a break-in at the CFA Bowser-Murmungee fire station.

The break-in was reported overnight last Thursday, May 16, when CFA BowserMurmungee captain Ron Ferguson was alerted to an

attempted break-in at the water pump station next to the brigade.

While nothing was taken from the pump station, it wasn’t until a further look on Saturday when Mr Ferguson checked the fire station where he had noticed the back window had been smashed.

He said he believed the culprits broke in through the window and took a

chainsaw and a fireproof safe, which contained a collection of archived meeting minutes of the fire brigade from the very start of its existence.

“There’s a lot of other stuff they could’ve stolen, but they didn’t take it,” he said.

“Maybe they thought money was in the safe, but we wouldn’t have any questions asked if they drop it

off anywhere or leave them somewhere, we’re not after that, we just want the minutes back.”

Mr Ferguson said some of the minutes contained in the safe were more than 100 years old, and the brigade were desperate to get them back.

“They can have the chainsaw, but we’d love to try and get the minutes back somehow if we could,” he said.

“It’s been a credit to the people in the brigade to keep handing these things on through the years, but now we’ve had someone break in and take them.

“Some of the minutes show when the community had come together to buy a horse drawn fire cart, the money that was raised and how it was all going to work within the community.”

Equipment bolsters SES road rescue

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

WANGARATTA SES Unit’s ability to respond to road crashes has been bolstered by a significant upgrade in rescue equipment.

The unit took possession of four pieces of state of the art equipment funded by VICSES on Monday evening, with members training on each of the heavier (20 kilograms) pieces of gear at their Shanley Street headquarters.

“The equipment is battery powered instead of the current hydraulic gear so there are no hoses to contend with,” unit controller Jess Zuber said.

“The equipment is stronger, faster and more efficient.

“It can be used to cut and spread open vehicles to help extricate occupants.

“We’ve attended six road crashes so far this year and probably average one a month.”

Ms Zuber said road crash rescue was a small but significant emergency service provided by the unit’s 50 volunteers throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta.

“Our members have responded to around 200 call outs for assistance so far this year, including flooding and storms, helping police with searches and also other emergency services with rescues,” she said.

“Of our unit’s 50 volunteer members, 80 per

cent are active.

“We’ve probably got a 50/50 ratio of men and women, with members aged from 16 to 80 plus.

“The SES has a role for everyone...from being out in the field responding to calls to providing administration and support behind the scenes.”

Jasmine Ammer joined the Wangaratta unit two years ago and said she found volunteering in the role to be very rewarding.

“I joined to help the community, and would encourage others to join too,” she said.

“We have a strong emphasis on training and learning news skills, which are put to use responding to various emergencies.

“Some of the jobs can be challenging, but we are like a family at the unit and everyone supports each other.”

Across the Hume region, VICSESS volunteers have responded to more than 4000 requests for assistance since last April, with more than 2000 downed trees reported, more than 400 reports of flood, 284 road rescues and almost 100 technical rescues received by local members.

Volunteers have also provided vital support to other emergency service providers within their communities on more than 400 occasions, aiding police, fire and ambulance responses with lighting, support and addi-

EQUIPMENT UPGRADE: Getting their hands on new road crash rescue equipment on Monday night were Wangaratta SES Unit members (from left) Jasmine Ammer, Jess Zuber (unit controller), Vincent McKenzie and Ross Johnston. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

tional boots on the ground in a range of scenarios.

For enquiries about Wangaratta SES Unit phone 1300 842 737 or email wangaratta@ses.vic.gov.au.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TODAY

It’s National Volunteer Week, with today being Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day) where members of the public are encouraged to show their thanks to State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers by dressing in orange.

Mr Ferguson said police visited the station and surveyed the area for fingerprints and evidence but have been able so far in pinpointing offenders. Anyone with information that could assist police or the local CFA is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

Two more explosive devices detonated in Wangaratta

■ from page 1

“No one has been spoken to or interviewed yet in regards to the matter.”

There have been no injuries or property damage in any of the reported incidents.

Sen Const Hogan reminded the community to be wary if they witness or hear any unknown explosive device in their vicinity.

“As with dealing with any unknown substance, make sure you don’t approach it, pick it up or touch it in any other way, even if it’s causing any sort of hazard, call triple zero,” he said.

“The community has been really good so far with these incidents...everyone has been really quick to call it through.

“From witness accounts they (devices) make a bang, there’s no fireball or anything like that after, when you find the water bottles after it looks like melted plastic with a bit of smoke.”

Anyone who has witnessed any of the incidents, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Educators look ahead to 2030

MORE than 350 educators from the North East and beyond will converge on Galen Catholic College on Friday for the Unlocking 2030 Education Conference.

Staff from Sandhurst diocese Catholic schools in Albury, Nathalia and Euroa will travel to Wangaratta to be part of the learning and teaching conference, which is being jointly organised by Borinya Wangaratta Community Partnership, St Bernard’s, Our Lady’s and St Patrick’s Primary Schools, and Galen

(Catholic Schools Wangaratta).

Galen principal Darta Hovey said the conference would involve workshops delivering best practice learnings, with a broad focus ranging from Foundation to VCE years.

“This is an outstanding opportunity for educators across the region to experience professional learnings at an international level in our North East community,”

Mr Hovey said.

The Unlocking 2030 Education Conference aims to ex-

plore the future of education, and how educators can prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Delegates will engage in workshops delivered by industry experts, educators, and thought leaders, as they delve into topics such as technology in the classroom, personalised learning, and the evolving role of teachers.

Keynote presenter will be Dr Selena Fisk, who is one of Australia’s leading educational experts specialising in ‘data storytelling’.

Further to this, the confer-

ence will provide networking opportunities, where educators can share best practices, foster collaboration, and set up new networks for future direction and support.

Within a school community there are many people who can impact a student’s learning journey, and the conference aims to include all educators, ranging from maintenance and grounds team members, administrative support and wellbeing staff, to learning support and classroom educators.

This is the first confer-

ence of its kind hosted in Wangaratta, and the organising committee has focused on bringing together a program which showcases the roles all educators can play in teaching, learning and research into the future.

Committee member Tess Barnard said: “This is an exciting opportunity to be part of shaping the future of education and ensuring our regional educators have access to the very latest industry information and opinions to take back to their schools and colleges”.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

Educational expert Dr Selena Fisk will headline Friday’s conference at Galen College.

Raising awareness for Palliative Care Week Nurses

By JORDAN DUURSMA

NATIONAL

Palliative Care

Week is Australia’s largest annual initiative to raise awareness about palliative care, increase understanding of it’s services, and recognise the skill, dedication and heart of the palliative care workforce and volunteers.

This week Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) has a number of activities to raise awareness about this area.

NHW’s community palliative care team members will be at the kiosk in Reid Street tomorrow from 10:30am to 2:30pm.

Community members are encouraged to come along and learn more about palliative care.

Palliative care coordinator Jackie Creek said death and dying remains a difficult subject for people to talk about and engage with and is often considered taboo.

“The lack of engagement and awareness contributes to a widespread misunderstanding of what palliative care does and what it’s all about,” she said.

“Our goal is to address the growing demands of the future so that all Australians who need it have access to palliative care.”

reject state’s latest EBA offer

PUBLIC hospital nurses and midwives are maintaining stage one industrial action after rejecting on Monday an in-principle agreement the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (Victoria Branch) reached with the Victorian Government.

ANMF secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick said while there was “significant support for the majority of the improvements we’ve negotiated”, members want their pay rates over the life of the agreement in black and white. At present the wage increases - of between 18 and 23 per cent over the life of the four-year proposed agreement - are partially subject to the outcome of a Fair Work Commission case.

Ms Fitzpatrick said the union is taking the members’ message back to government for further negotiations.

Palliative care is provided to people of all ages with life-limiting illnesses, aimed at helping people live as well as possible, for as long as possible. It includes providing high quality holistic health care and helps people to manage pain and symptoms to ensure their quality of life is maintained as the illness progresses.

and emotional support,” Ms Creek said.

“We acknowledge that caring for people as they near the end of their life can be very challenging.

“It is a family centred model of care, meaning that family, loved ones and cares can also receive practical

“Bereavement care to family and cares after a person dies is also an important part of the service offered at NHW palliative care team.

“Our team encourages

conversations about palliative care, from the time of diagnosis of a life-limiting illness as this can ensure a person receives the holistic end of life care they deserve

“We understand talking about death is confronting but we encourage community members not to shy away from these conversations.”

NHW’s community palliative care team will celebrate 25 years of service this year.

The team consists of nurses, occupational therapists, social workers, volunteer support workers, family support workers and admin support staff

They all play a critical role in delivering exceptional care and optimising quality of life.

She said stage one industrial action, which includes no overtime, continues, while state two actionclosing one in four beds and one in four elective surgeries is suspended, but this may change.

More than 600 nurses and midwives at Northeast Health Wangaratta are affected by the outcome of the EBA.

PALLIATIVE CARE TEAM: Northeast Health Wangaratta’s (from left) Jackie Creek, Lizzie Smith, Gayle Roman, Sarah Newton, Jodie Finlayson, Sue Box and Catherine Dean are here to support the community.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

New plumbing simulation facility at GOTAFE will help boost skills

NEW training facilities at GOTAFE Wangaratta will give qualified plumbers a chance to learn skills for the workforce of today and the future, as part of a $1 million project to equip students with skills of the trade.

Minister for Skills and TAFE, Gayle Tierney, welcomed the completion of the upgraded training facilities, including a Type A Gas Room, at GOTAFE’s Wangaratta campus in Docker Street.

Ms Tierney said GOTAFE students will help contribute to Victoria’s sustainability goals by learning how to convert appliances from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to natural gas and vice versa, and repair and repurpose old appliances so they’re not sent to landfill.

“They will also be taught to test appliances to ensure correct gas combustion, minimising carbon monoxide exposure,” she said.

“The facilities, including hot water systems, heaters, stoves and ovens, help create a real-life training environment.

and assessor plumbing) and Luke Surace (executive director education) in the completed

Minister Tierney said the upgraded training room has been equipped in partnership with local suppliers and contractors, demonstrating the strong industry connections of the TAFE Network.

Two groups of students have already completed a new 16-day Short Course –Servicing Type A Gas Appliances – and places are available in GOTAFE Wangaratta’s

“Trainers will be able to create simulated faults in the appliances so students can learn how to find and fix them.”

July and September intakes.

This project was part of a $1 million investment from the Victorian Government through Apprenticeships Victoria to fund new and updated equipment at GOTAFE, upskilling students across 38 technical trades certificates and short courses so they are ready to work in the jobs of the future.

Minister Tierney said the Victorian Budget 2024/25 is investing $555m in Skills and TAFE to “enable even

more Victorians to upskill into meaningful, well-paid careers”.

Victoria’s Free TAFE initiative has already helped more than 170,500 students, saving them $460 million in fees since the program began in 2019.

More than 80 courses are available through the program, including the Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services, with more info available at http://www.vic. gov.au/free-tafe.

Minister Tierney said this is a fantastic example of how TAFEs and local industry are working together to equip the future workforce with the skills and capabilities needed across Victoria.

“In supporting local training providers, we’re helping to increase in-demand skilled workers and giving more people the chance to get a great job close to where they live,” she said.

Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, said

our investment in the new gas training facilities at GOTAFE Wangaratta will equip plumbers with the handson skills they need to thrive in the region’s homes and workplaces.

GOTAFE executive director of education, Luke Surace, said they are proud of this collaboration with industry and look forward to welcoming more plumbers at this new facility from across the region into this vital course.

Power our community as a volunteer

AS we mark National Volunteer Week this week, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the volunteer roles which support our community dailysometimes without us even noticing.

If you went to watch your local sports team on the weekend, you would have seen volunteers in action - from those working on the gate or in the canteen, to others overseeing the scoreboard, umpiring, fulfilling a trainer’s role or doing the myriad of other jobs that enable a day of sport to run smoothly.

Perhaps you’ve visited Northeast Health Wangaratta and received assistance from a volunteer in the foyer, or been a patient and experienced the work done in a range of roles throughout the hospital.

Maybe you’ve taken advantage of a stall run by one of our local service clubs to support their work in the community.

It could be that you’ve found yourself in need of a local CFA brigade or SES team, and have known the relief and care they bring.

These encounters represent a fraction of the volunteer roles available every day in Wangaratta and district, but the reality is that it’s getting tougher to find people to offer their time.

If you can spare some time and want to support your community, to carry on the legacy of generations before who developed that spirit of giving, there is a volunteer role to suit you.

An offer of help will never be knocked back, and in the words of Muhammad Ali: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth”.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Australian QuizNo.76

1

In 2007, who released the album, Good Girl Gone Bad?

(a) Beyoncé (b) Rihanna

(c) Lady Gaga (d) Miley Cyrus

2

How many years-old was Queen Elizabeth II when she gave birth to Charles?

(a) 22 (b) 26 (c) 30 (d) 34

3

Which of the following has the slogan, “Irresistible taste experience”?

(a) Ferrero Rocher

Iceland

(b) Guylian (c) Lindt (d) Cadbury

4 Wil Wheaton appeared regularly as a fictionalised version of himself on which TV series?

(a) Modern Family

(b) The How I Met Your Mother

(c) The Big Bang Theory

(d) Malcolm in the Middle

5 Which team was defeated by Western United in the 2021-22 A-League Men’s Grand Final?

(a) Adelaide United (b) Melbourne City (c) Wellington Phoenix

A big thank you to selfless volunteers

THIS year the theme for National Volunteer Week is ‘something for everyone’.

Over my time as an MP I have met all kinds of volunteers, each of them contributing in their own way to make our communities even better.

From showground committees to public hall and rec reserve committees, those involved in Landcare or local music programs, schools, hospitals, and aged care – thank you.

Our hardworking CFA and SES volunteers who take time away from their jobs and their families in order to keep us safe – thank you.

To those in sport, whether the scorekeepers, coaches, umpires, groundsmen, or those manning the canteen – thank you.

To our volunteers in churches, neighbourhood houses, Foodshare and op shops, providing support for people who need it - thank you.

Each and every volunteer uses their skills to make the world a better place, contributing their time and passion to build us up and make us thrive.

They are the backbone of our local communities and ensure that there is ‘something for everyone’ no matter how remote the location, or how niche the idea.

To each and every one of you – thank you.

Tim McCurdy MP, Ovens Valley

Ramping won’t end with budget cuts

REPORTS surfaced of up to nine ambulances being ramped at Goulburn Valley Health for up to nine hours, ironically on the same day Treasurer Tim Pallas announced a $20 million cut in ambulance services in the Victorian budget.

While ambulance ramping is caused by several factors, the reality is that on budget day there was not a single ambulance available in Shepparton, Numurkah or Tatura for several hours because they were all stuck at GV Health.

In my constituency question to the

(d) Melbourne Victory

6 Togo shares its shortest land border with which country?

(a) Burkina Faso (b) Senegal (c) Liberia (d) Mali

7 The Gates of Hell is one of the best-known sculptural works by which sculptor?

(a) Donatello (b) Michelangelo (c) Auguste Rodin (d) Georges Braque

8 What is the most sparsely populated country in Europe?

(a) Andorra (b) Belgium (c) Liechtenstein (d) Iceland

9 The H-4 Hercules flying boat was better known by what name?

(a) Santa Maria (b) Spruce Goose (c) New Titanic (d) Heaven’s Angel

10 In which of these sports could you possibly get ‘shacked’?

(a) Basketball (b) Wrestling (c) Surfing (d) Lacrosse

Do you like the concept design for the sculpture being installed in Oxley to promote the Prosecco Road?

Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes, I stated that a constituent called an ambulance on the day in question but was told none were available and was offered for a taxi to be called to take him to hospital.

Ambulance wait times are longer than ever and our dedicated paramedics need more funding, not less.

Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, Northern Victoria MP

Federal budget drops the ball on healthcare

THE Federal Budget provides little to no relief for Australians struggling to afford essential healthcare and won’t help the cost-of-living crisis, says the said the government has dropped the ball in its commitment to strengthen Medicare and reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients.

The government took the first step to repair decades of devastating

underfunding of Medicare and general practice care last year – now this work will stall.

Australians are already putting off essential care due to rising costs.

This budget won’t help, so out-of-pocket fees will increase.

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners president, Dr Nicole Higgins

WE

Answers:

(b) Rihanna

(a) Ferrero Rocher

(c) The Big Bang Theory

(b) Melbourne City

(a) Burkina Faso

Spruce Goose

(c) Surfing

ENJOY A CUPPA: Young and ‘old’ at Wangaratta Children’s Services Centre are embracing Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea to raise funds for the Cancer Council this week. Parents and staff enjoyed a cuppa from Dolly’s Addiction Coffee and Food Truck on Tuesday morning, ahead of the centre’s main fundraising morning this Friday. Families and members of the wider community are welcome to attend on site and enjoy a coffee or chai from Dolly’s Addiction between 8am and 10am. Pictured enjoying a cuppa yesterday morning were (front) Elly Glazebrook and Isabelle Crabb, with (back from left) Stephanie Lloyd, Shannon Glazebrook and Victoria Strano.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Dogs’ day out this Sunday, for RSPCA

THE countdown is on for the Wangaratta Million Paws Walk with locals and their furry friends expected to hit the Wangaratta Showgrounds this Sunday.

Walkers and pooches can enjoy a Doggy ‘Sniffari’, training demonstrations by the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club, a raffle for a fabulous KONG prize pack, and meet local RSPCA Inspector Kyle Pugh all to raise vital funds to help end animal cruelty.

Event manager Jasmin Scott said the RSPCA can’t wait to see plenty of wagging tails this weekend.

“The Wangaratta Million Paws Walk is such a fun day for people and their dogs, and it makes such a different to help RSPCA Victoria end animal cruelty,” Ms Scott said.

“We’d love for more locals to join us this weekend at the Wangaratta

Kennel & Obedience Dog Club in the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

“These events provide an affordable and fun, family-friendly atmosphere, and RSPCA Inspectors will be available for animal welfare advice and conversations with the community.

“People can register online in advance to make the most of any discounts on offer, or come along and register on the day...every person and paw counts.”

Registrations for the 30th Annual Million Paws Walk are now open at millionpawswalk.com.au those booking online will automatically receive a 40 per cent ticket discount by May 24.

The Wangaratta Million Paws Walk starts at 9:30am with the walk occurring at 10am and the event concluding at 12pm.

For tickets go to: www. millionpawswalk.com.au/ Wangaratta

Rural City of Wangaratta voters head to the polls, via a postal ballot, in October to elect seven councillors for the next four years.

This year’s election wlll be different as a state electoral review will see the rural city’s current council ward structure of four wards (one city ward with four councillors, three rural wards electing one councillor each) being replaced with a new seven single-councillor ward structure.

Voters in each of the seven wards (Appin Ward, Bullawah Ward, King River Ward, Ovens Ward, Warby Ward, Wareena Ward and Yarrunga Ward) will only get to choose between those candidates standing in their ward.

Cr HARVEY BENTON

Mainly Music sessions fun for all family

CHILDREN and their carers enjoyed the weekly Mainly Music session conducted by Wangaratta Uniting Church on Monday. Sessions run each Monday during school terms in the Uniting Church hall in Rowan Street, with the 30-minute music program commencing at 10am, followed by BYO morning tea, play time and a story.

The cost of each session is $5 per family, and those keen to attend are encouraged to arrive a little before 10am to complete a registration form.

Wangaratta Baptist Church in Sisely Avenue also conducts Mainly Music sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 10am; places are limited for these sessions, but new families are welcome to come along and see if it’s something they might enjoy. Cost is also $5 per family.

Stand for council in 2024 Q&A

Local government remains our closest distinct tier of government and a democratically-elected council to provide good governance for the benefit and wellbeing of the municipal community has never been more important.

The Wangaratta Chronicle, together with the Rural City of Wangaratta, is encouraging community members to start considering what qualities, experience and skills you want to see in prospective candidates, and what expectations you have of your council?

For prospective candidates, a significant time commitment (last survey 70 per cent of Victorian councillors said they spend 16 hours or more a week), and ability to work through a challenging annual budget process, and wide-ranging list of council responsibilities under more than 120 pieces of Victorian legislation, including land use planning and building control, public health services, domestic animal control and environmental protection legislation, as well as maintaining community infrastructure come with the civic role.

To add some context to the current state of local government, and create greater understanding and hopefully raise interest in prospective candidates and the wider community, we’re asking each current councillor a series of questions.

Today’s column features Councillor Harvey Benton (deputy mayor).

What skills, qualities or experience do you believe are needed to be an effective councillor?

You’ve got be a community person if not you’re not, don’t stand for council.

You need to be present, but you need to balance giving time to the community and still have yourself a life.

It’s often a tough call because everyone’s doing great work in their communities, and they deserve recognition.

Learn how to catch bricks.

It’s easy to criticise and throw bricks when you’re on the outside, when you’re in council you’ve got to catch them, show positivity, and defend your actions.

Being deputy mayor you’ve got to become more aware and not just stick to your portfolios so broad life skills are a must and this includes time management.

If you come in here thinking you’re a one agenda person you’re not going to last.

If you think you’re going to be elected and just come to a meeting twice a week, forget it.

You will spend just as much time reading if you want to be across issues and you’ve got to put it through the header a few times to get rid of the chaff.

It’s very hard to put an old head on young shoulders, which I’m only appreciating now as I get older.

What are the biggest challenges facing our incoming council?

I think we have become too bureaucratic.

I’ve always said that bureaucracy is the greatest sustainable industry.

It’s very different than when I started, we were a lot more hands on back then.

I think population growth in terms of roads (is a big challenge).

We’ve only got 30,000 people and I’ve come through a traffic jam today.

We have trouble getting in and out of town, we need a second river crossing or second access to the northbound freeway.

Education and childcare are some of my passions, they require ongoing advocacy as the population grows.

This is where council overflows into every facet of life.

How do you balance the needs of your ward against those of the municipality?

I believe in wards; it gives people a

direct link to council, at the end of the day they’re the ones that put you there and they keep you accountable.

It’s also important to be connected to your ward, because in times of emergency people need to know who they can go to for help.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a councillor?

Helping your community and trying to make it a better place.

The best thing for me is getting little jobs done, like fixing the footpaths where people have been walking over gutters for years.

And what we’ve achieved with the saleyards.

If we hadn’t done the upgrade and got a board to run it, I don’t think it would be there today, well certainly not as profitable.

STAND FOR COUNCIL PUBLIC SESSION

The Rural City of Wangaratta, in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria, is holding an information session for the community and prospective candidates. The session, to be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre at 6pm on Thursday, June 13, can be attended inperson or online. The session will cover local government, role and responsibility of a councillor and the election process. For more information visit mav.asn.au/stand-for-council-2024.

FAMILY TIME: Bohdi Kennedy, Michelle Stuckey and Phoenix Kennedy.

WHO, US: Twins Josiah and Jacob Collins.

LEARNING TOGETHER: Taryn Sirianni and son Franky Sirianni.

PICTURE TIME: Abigail and Lily Lindsay enjoyed some animal books.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

‘Hidden’ harms of drinking to excess

By STEVE KELLY

A NEW study published in Addiction journal shows around a fifth of adult Australians reported harm from the excessive drinking of people they know, and investigates its impacts on family, friends, and colleagues.

The study, from across regional and metropolitan Australia, showed that women experienced more harm than men when they lived with – or were related to – someone who drinks in excess.

Lead researcher Dr AnneMarie Laslett from La Trobe University said urgent changes to policies and services were essential to especially care for regional women and children who were harmed by a family member’s drinking behaviours.

Almost two-thirds of the survey participants reported having heavy drinkers in their lives and more than 22 per cent reported being negatively affected by the drinking of people they knew well.

Six per cent of respondents reported that they had experienced alcohol-related harm from a household member; 15 per cent from a family member they did not live with; seven per cent reported such harm from a friend; and 3 per cent from a co-worker in the past year.

Jaime Chubb, CEO of the Centre Against Violence in Wangaratta, said while alcohol may be a contributing factor in the escalation of violence, it’s never an excuse to harm others.

“These findings remind us of the complexity of addressing family violence,” Ms Chubb said.

“While we welcome the increase in resources for the family violence sector, it’s clear that

services for mental health and drug and alcohol need to be also improved and more accessible.

“It’s not a surprise to see the significant impact excessive drinking has on individuals and families.

“We must work collaboratively across sectors to address the underlying causes and provide comprehensive support to those affected.

“If you or someone you know are unsure where to seek help or get advice, please reach out to The Orange Door for support in being connected to suitable support services.”

The Orange Door in Wangaratta is located at 60 Reid Street - you can walk in or call them direct on 1800 271 157.

Dr Laslett said participants felt the burden of driving such friends and relatives around and caring for them; they reported feeling let down due to them not living up to their roles; and feeling emotionally hurt or neglected.

Almost 15 per cent of women, compared to almost eight per cent of men reported being emotionally hurt or neglected; 11.5 per cent of women said they experiencing serious arguments compared to 7.2 per cent of men.

“Some of our participants revealed that they suffered physical or sexual harm; property damage; financial stress; and threats from others’ drinking,” Dr Laslett said.

“It was quite concerning to see the number of participants who reported family problems, were called names or insulted, and fell into financial trouble from others’ drinking behaviours.”

HARMFUL:

House

fire escape

shows b’room smoke alarms are essential

A FATHER whose family escaped a fire that destroyed their home in a matter of minutes is calling on Wangaratta and district residents to install smoke alarms in all bedrooms.

Ramesh Gajurel, his wife and child were finishing dinner in the kitchen of their home in Truganina when their hallway smoke alarm activated.

A fire had ignited in a spare bedroom and was quickly spreading in the house.

“We had just finished dinner and were doing the clean-up and all of a sudden we heard the [smoke] alarm in the lounge area,” Ramesh said.

“We went through each and every room and we found the second bedroom was already on fire - then we just tried to find a way out.”

The bedroom door had been shut and there was no smoke alarm inside, so by the time the family was alerted to the fire it was already burning aggressively.

The family safely evacuated, but unfortunately the house was so badly damaged by the incident that it had to be demolished.

That said, Ramesh sees himself as lucky, because if someone had been sleeping in the bedroom when the fire broke out, it would likely have been fatal.

“I think it’s really important to have [smoke] alarms in each bedroom, just in case,” he said.

“When you are sleeping in the night … you can act very quickly.”

The family’s lucky escape has prompted Victorian fire services to once again emphasise that smoke alarms are a bedroom essential.

FRV deputy commissioner community safety, Joshua Fischer, said fires that start in bedrooms are the ones most likely to kill you.

“If fire breaks out in your bedroom and the door is shut, the hallway smoke alarm will not activate until the fire has burned through the door, which will be too late,” he said.

“Smoke will not wake you – in fact, it will put you into a deeper sleep and render you unconscious – so it’s crucial that you have a smoke alarm installed in all sleeping areas.”

FRV and CFA’s most recent survey of Victorians revealed just 17 percent have smoke alarms in their bedrooms.

For more information visit the FRV website and the CFA website.

Pet pooches raise $3000 for RSPCA h

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

By STEVEN BURKE

A $500 individual donation to the RSPCA made an already successful Million Paws Walk even sweeter for organisers of the event on Sunday.

The donation was made by a lady who wishes to remain anonymous and who has previously adopted a pet from the Wangaratta RSPCA shelter.

It helped push the total raised on the day to $3000, which event organiser, Lesley Sanderson, said was great for the RSPCA.

returning and a lot of new people so it was great to receive that support,” Ms Sanderson said.

She said between 180-200 people, 150 dogs and one pony participated in the walk, which followed a three kilometre course through

Goulburn Ovens TAFE’s Rural Industries Campus.

“We had a lot of people

“As the organisers we couldn’t have done it without the support of the people and businesses in Wangaratta and GOTAFE, who let us use their campus.”

Drinking in excess and the choices people make are having harmful effects on 22 per cent of people who know their abuser, according to a La Trobe University survey.

PHOTO: Paul Einerhand on Unsplash

OUT FOR A WALK: Emily Gilbert brought her five month old Siberian husky Ajax out for his first Million Paws Walk, while Liza Darcy’s six year old pug Gizmo is a regular walker.

PHOTO: Steven Burke

Bright, shining offering at library

DON’T forget this week’s sessions of the Sydney Writers Festival being livestreamed at the Wangaratta Library.

Part of the festival’s Live & Local program, it will see selected events screened in the library’s community room on Thursday, Friday and Saturday; all events are free and bookings are not required.

Tomorrow’s sessions will begin at 10am with Julia

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

Baird speaking about her new book, ‘Bright Shining’. Viet Thanh Nguyen follows at 12 noon discussing his memoir, ‘A Man of Two Faces’, then Suzie Miller takes centre stage from 2pm to discuss the adaptation of her play, ‘Prima Facie’ into a novel and screenplay.

At 4pm, Julian Borger will discuss his memoir, ‘I Seek a Kind Person’, and from 6pm young adult and fantasy fans will enjoy the ‘Fantastical Worlds’ session with authors Garth Nix, Shelley ParkerChan, Samantha Shannon and Aimee Lindorff

On Friday from 10am, philosopher AC Grayling will speak about The Meaning of Life in a Technological Age, followed at 12 noon by a session titled The War on

Journalists featuring Julian Borger, John Lyons, Alisa Sopova, Anastasia TaylorLind and Hamish Macdonald. From 2pm, Nobel Prize winner Abdulrazak Gurnah will speak about his book, ‘Afterlives’, and the Friday sessions will wind down with 4pm’s Feminist Firebrands, featuring Hannah Ferguson, Sisonke Msimang, Jennifer Robinson and Jo Dyer.

Saturday will see Celeste Ng kick off proceedings from

10am speaking about her book, ‘Our Missing Hearts’, while popular author Trent Dalton will speak about his work in a session titled From Eli to Lola, beginning at 12 noon.

From 2pm on the Saturday, journalists and friends Leigh Sales and Lisa Millar will be in conversation about non-fiction writing.

For more information, phone the library on 5721 2366.

Come for a donut, stay for some free legal advice

YOUNG people will be able to receive free legal advice in Wangaratta this Friday.

Hume Riverina Community Legal Service will run a ‘Donuts with Lawyers’ session, as part of its community events for Law Week, this Friday, from 3.30pm to 5pm at Synergy Youth Hub, 29 Flanagan Street, Wangaratta.

Sarah Rodgers, manager and principal lawyer of Hume Riverina Community Legal Service, said the session seeks to make the law more accessible.

“Donuts with Lawyers is all about sharing information and building capacity, confidence and knowledge, we want young people to know they can ask for help,” she said.

“Lawyers are shrouded in stereotypes, and we really want to break these down by inviting young people to celebrate Law Week with us and have a chat and a donut with a lawyer.”

Youth lawyers from Hume Riverina Community Legal Service’s integrated youth justice program, Invisible Hurdles, have co-designed’ Donuts with Lawyers’ with young people from

donated $4000 to support the Growling Grass Frog

Junction Support Services’ Youth Advisory Committee and the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Youth Council.

“Our youth lawyers work with young people in our region everyday providing legal assistance and education alongside the support services of our partner organisations NESAY, Albury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service, Wodonga Flexible Learning Centre and Gateway Health,” Ms Rodgers said.

“The ‘Donuts with Lawyers’ sessions are a great extension of this work to reach more young people in our region.

“Many of life’s problems can have legal answers and part of navigating solutions is being able to identify a legal problem and knowing when, and how to access a lawyer.”

If you are aged between 12 and 25, come and meet with a lawyer and learn about how lawyers can help with everyday legal problems from getting a birth certificate, to rental issues and homelessness, from fines to personal safety and family problems.

For more information visit https:// www.hrcls.org.au/events/.

Winton Wetlands frogs get $4000

WORK at Winton Wetlands to help return the native Growling Grass Frog to its natural habitat has been boosted by a $4000 sponsorship contribution from by consultancy firm Biosis.

Biosis provides specialist advice spanning botany, zoology, heritage and environmental approvals, with offices in nine locations including Wangaratta.

Last year, Biosis celebrated its 40th year of operations.

The contribution adds to other smaller donations from a variety of community sources, on top of a $50,000 sponsorship given by philanthropic foundation the Wettenhall Trust some weeks ago.

Winton Wetlands restoration manager Dr Lisa Farnsworth said Biosis’s generous donation was particularly welcome, given the group’s expertise in work associated with restoration of natural ecosystems.

“We feel they’re peo-

ple who really know what they’re talking about when it comes to environmental restoration, so we feel particularly honoured that they want to help support this important work,” Dr Farnsworth says.

Biosis’ Wangaratta-based general manager of business and technical development, Matt Looby, said Biosis has a strong history of supporting nature conservation and research projects, including partnerships with universi-

ties and post-graduate students.

“The Growling Grass Frog reintroduction program at Winton Wetlands has provided us with a unique opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation and to support the continued restoration of the wetlands,” he said.

“We see this program as a fantastic step towards returning Growling Grass Frogs back to the wetlands

of North East Victoria where they once thrived.” Winton Wetlands currently has around 30 Growling Grass Frogs living in custom-built outdoor breeding enclosures, being monitored closely as they move into their winter brumation period in preparation for a busy spring breeding season ahead. They were relocated from a water storage facility operated by Coliban Water near Bendigo last year.

SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE: Hume Riverina Community Legal Service youth lawyer Taylor Smith-Stephens working with Wangaratta Youth Councillors.

FROG CASH: Biosis has

project at Winton Wetlands.

MAKING CASE FOR GRACE: Julia Baird’s session will be livestreamed to tomorrow.

Two of Us exhibition in Wangaratta

AN exhibition by Sian Lim and Joan Mullarvey called The Two of Us will open at the Art Gallery on Ovens tomorrow.

This exhibition celebrates not only the unique essence of each of the resident artist’s vision and technique with divergent perspectives and distinct styles, but also where their friendship and creativity intertwine.

See it Thursday, Friday and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm until June 3.

Bell Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Bell Shakespeare will present the classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tomorrow night.

The Shakespeare classic is reawakened in this breathless production brimming with magic, mirth and mayhem, centred around besotted couple Hermia and Lysander.

This is A Midsummer Night’s Dream reimagined in a fast, funny and family-friendly production everyone will enjoy, with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.

yourstars

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) The cautious side of your usually adventurous nature stands you in good stead this week. Someone might, indeed, be trying to pull the wool over the Sheep’s eyes.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Planetary alignment still causes unsettling situations. Consider delaying matters that aren’t a priority until the weekend. Cheer up! The next such alignment isn’t until 2028.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters take precedence. Spend more time with those close to you. A career move sounds promising, but ask for more facts before making a decision.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your watchword this week is “tact!” While honesty is, of course, the best policy, it’s best to temper your tendency toward bluntness with discretion.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Nothing pleases our Leos and Leonas more than knowing they’re admired, and this week, you’ll be overwhelmed with compliments. Enjoy the adulation. You earned it.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You’re making progress in your dealings with a troubled loved one. Continue to offer understanding and support. You’ll soon see positive results.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Change is favored this week. You might want to reassess a situation that has become too demanding. Also, reconsider that job move you rejected earlier.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)

A loved one returns after a long separation. At work, a decision is made that could lead to the changes you hoped for. The next step is up to you.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) This is a good time to set things straight in your personal relationships. Some decisions might be difficult but necessary if you’re to turn things around.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Cupid rules the Capricorn Goat’s heart this week. It’s a good time to start a new romance or reaffirm your commitment to your current beloved.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)

Travel and entertainment are favored for the rest of the month. You earned this good time. Enjoy it with friends and family members.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

Someone you’ve been close to reveals a secret that could put this relationship at risk. Consider the full impact of the admission before making a decision.

Black Box theatre experience coming to Wangaratta in June

LOCAL audiences will have the opportunity to experience cutting-edge theatre and a range of thought-provoking and also hilarious performances, when the Black Box Series is held in Wangaratta in June.

Designed to celebrate the 15th birthday of the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, the Black Box Series will be held over 10 consecutive days in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, bringing audience members and performers within close proximity in an intimate space.

Venue manager Tanya Camplin said the idea was to bring the style of theatre seen at Chapel on Chapel or Gasworks in Melbourne to Wangaratta, where an audience limited to 90 people could enjoy a beverage while experiencing award-winning shows in a celebration of diverse storytelling.

“It will complement our main

Weekend Fit for a King in the valley

WINE lovers are invited to join the wine making families of the King Valley once again when the annual Weekend Fit for a King food and wine festival is held on the June long weekend.

Participating wineries including John Gehrig, Politini Wines, Pizzini, Dal Zotto, La Cantina, Darling Estate and Brown Brothers will be offering delicious menus of winter-warming food, fine wines, live music and family entertainment over Saturday and Sunday, kicking off at Dal Zotto’s on Friday night.

Download the full program and purchase early bird discounted tickets now until the end of May at winesofthekingvalley.com.au/weekend-fit-for-a-king/

theatre program but provide a minimalist setting and a ‘blank canvas’ where actors and directors can present performances in an intimate theatre space - where there will be a special connection between the audience and performers,” she said.

The series kicks off with No Former Performer Has Performed this Performance Before, a live ‘study’ into performance, risk and improvisation, on Friday, June 14.

The play Marooned depicts four people who are marooned together in a waiting room in the afterlife - the audience journeying with them as they each come back from the edge - but are they going home?

Winner of Best Comedy at Melbourne Fringe 2023, the hilarious new comedy Stickybeak is about the neighbours you know and love to hate, with every street needing a stickybeak or two.

A Taste of Ireland in Wangaratta

Tibetan artist Tenzin Choegyal is a master of the bamboo flute and three-stringed lute but is best known for his extraordinary vocal ability.

Tenzin will perform original compositions inspired by Buddhist texts and poetry.

Oyster Boy is a dark, absurd comedy for anyone who’s ever tried to fit in and instead found out, sometimes you just have to go and shuck yourself.

Oyster Boy lives inside an oyster and is a big fishy weirdo, but is the world ready for his nutrient rich, gender fluid, sand intolerant presence?

Garry Starr Greece Lightning features an overzealous idiot attempting to perform all of Greek Mythology in order to save his Hellenic homeland from economic ruin.

Perolas Quartet presents a blend of experimental jazz, evocative lyrics and unconventional rhythms, resulting in a

IRISH music and dance sensation A Taste of Ireland brings a performance that is ‘Celtic―for this decade’ to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tonight at 7pm.

The show merges cultural traditions, modern flair and craic galore to deliver a performance that has received rave reviews. With an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, accomplished musicians and a contemporary vocalist, blending Irish charm with mind-blowing talents in an unforgettable night of entertainment, limited tickets are still available at wpacc.com. au.

Historic Winton this weekend

THE 47th annual Historic Winton, Australia’s longest running, all-historic motor race meeting, will be held at Winton Motor Raceway on Saturday and Sunday.

Over 400 historic racing cars, motorbikes and sidecars from the 1920s to the 1980s are expected to battle it out for line honours, supported by vehicle displays, an automotive trader market, food vendors and more. Tickets are available at historicwinton.org.

truly distinctive musical fusion. Anchored in the resonant tones of the harp, the quartet seamlessly weaves analog electronics into captivating compositions, crafting an original sonic landscape.

YouTube sensations The Mik Maks bring their family band to town with guaranteed giggling, singing and jiggling in the Mini Mak Mosh pit.

There will also be a Youth Comedy Performance, providing opportunities for our local young people to work with one of Australia’s leading comedy writers, performers and producers, Anthony Lamond, and local VCE performing arts students performing VCE Drama and Theatre Studies monologues. With limited seating available for each performance, select from the series and secure your tickets now by visiting wpacc. com.au/Whats-On/BLACK-BOXSERIES.

Wang Volunteer Group morning tea

THE Cancer Council’s Wang Volunteer Group will host its annual Biggest Morning Tea together event tomorrow morning at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, Wangaratta from 10am to 11.30am. As well as having a delicious morning tea, there will be a wonderful display of items from the archives of its volunteers. Entry is $10 (includes lucky door prize) with all proceeds going to the Cancer Council, Victoria.

COMEDY MASTERCLASS: Multiple Fringe Comedy Festival winner Garry Starr Greece Lightning is part of the dazzling Black Box Series lineup, with two performances on Friday, June 21.

Something for Everyone

Helping out in healthcare

VOLUNTEERING has been the perfect transition from retirement for Wangaratta’s Rhonda Taylor.

Having moved from Melbourne to make Wangaratta home with her partner in October 2022, Rhonda has volunteered at Northeast Health Wangaratta for 18 months across three areas of the health service.

Rhonda spends time in creative services helping collate files used for medical records and patient information, as well as a day with Meals on Wheels and time in Thomas Hogan Rehabilitation Unit.

“After retiring, I felt I needed a purpose and it was a way of getting myself out there, especially when coming to a new town and not knowing anyone here,” she said.

“I wanted to challenge myself and volunteering here felt like the perfect way to do that.”

In the creative services department, Rhonda helps make up some of the thousands of packs, forms and patient information that support the collection and flow of information for the service every year.

“Each area that I volunteer in is very different,” she said.

“In creative services, you have to really concentrate to make sure you don’t miss anything, whereas in Thomas Hogan it is more social and interactive, so it’s an opportunity to apply my skills in different ways.”

Patients in Thomas Hogan Rehabilitation Unit enjoy high tea and happy hour each week as an opportunity for socialising and a fun way to redevelop skills that may have been lost, particularly for people who have experienced a stroke.

“There are two of us that set up the tables and we have nice china cups for high tea,” she said.

“Once we have set up and served, we then spend time with the patients, just sitting and talking with them.

“You get to know some of the patients quite well

because they are in there for a longer time than other wards.”

The third area of volunteering is Meals on Wheels, which Rhonda does once a fortnight.

“That is really rewarding in another completely

different way, because you might be the only contact that person has for the week,” she said.

Rhonda said volunteering at an organisation the size of Northeast Health Wangaratta was ideal for providing variety and

allowing individuals to fulfil their personal motivations.

“People volunteer for any number of reasons – it helps you stay connected, gives you purpose, provides meaningful work, and an opportunity to develop friendships,” she said. “I was motivated to volunteer because I wanted to continue doing something meaningful after retirement and be connected in my community, and feeling that I am doing some good is a great reward.”

PERFECT TRANSITION: Rhonda Taylor has spent her retirement volunteering for Northeast Health Wangaratta.

DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS: Neville Maddox and Ian Firth volunteer as part of NHW’s concierge team.

“Something for everyone at CFA” as it celebrates National Volunteer Week

THIS National Volunteer Week (NVW) CFA, and its partner emergency service volunteer organisations, acknowledge and thank the tens of thousands of Victorians for their unpaid contributions to their communities.

This year’s NVW theme “Something for Everyone” is particularly relevant to CFA, the state’s largest volunteer organisation, which provides many opportunities for members to play a role which suits them, gain skills and qualifications, and reach their potential.

Not only is the organisation a core part of Victoria’s emergency service network, but members also gain social connections and build a greater sense of inclusion within their local communities.

CFA thanks and celebrates its 52,000 volunteers for their ongoing dedication in protecting Victorian communities.

CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook said

GIVING BACK: Kate Gibson and Sandy King encourage others to become volunteers for the Whitefield Fire Brigade.

the organisation’s ‘Give Us a Hand’ recruitment campaign, launched last year, proved a huge success with more than 1800 highly

skilled and professional new members recruited across Victoria.

“Our organisation is unique in offering

Well done to all the hardworking volunteers in the

volunteers the opportunity to gain leadership skills, training and experience while serving their communities,” he said.

“It’s also a great place to meet and work with people from all walks of life.”

Regional and rural communities, including the Whitfield Fire Brigade, are still very much in need of more volunteers, particularly daytime responders and young members.

“We’ve flagged the point that we’re struggling to find new potential volunteers,” Whitfield Fire Brigade captain, Warren Proft, said.

“The brigade’s average age is getting older and older, and it would be nice to see younger people in the brigade area that would be interested in volunteering.”

Mr Proft said he believes there are misconceptions on how onerous the task of being a volunteer firefighter is and said it isn’t as demanding as people expect it to be.

“We might have 20 jobs spread out over the year and it’s probably concentrated in some

months more than others,” he said.

“It’s nothing too time consuming, sometimes you might have a meeting or a training session.”

Mr Proft said he encourages people to volunteer and that people in the brigade volunteer for many different reasons.

“Everyone volunteers for different reasons... for some people it’s very community based and other people just like the fire trucks, they really enjoy the whole firefighting part of it,” he said.

“We need to be there and it’s important to have volunteers to fill in when other people aren’t available.”

If you’re interested in joining CFA or learning more about volunteering, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ volunteer.

Once you’ve submitted your expression of interest online, your local brigade will contact you regarding the next steps.

Something for Everyone

The heroes of local footy

VOLUNTEERS are a vital part of AFL North East Border (AFLNEB) running smoothly.

Region operations manager, Shankar Menon, said the volunteers undertake a wide variety of roles from president to canteen volunteers.

“The countless hours they give back to their clubs, on top of their own personal and/ or work life cannot be underestimated,” he said.

“Without volunteers the players, from Auskick right through to senior football, wouldn’t have anywhere to play, so they are just as important as any part of the football and netball landscape across the North East.”

Mr Menon said AFL North East Border would like to thank all their volunteers across the region regardless of

how long they’ve been volunteering.

“We would like all of them to know, that what we do is not possible without them and that we appreciate them for everything that they do,” he said.

“We’d like to give a special mention to those in the key roles within clubs...without the work and countless hours you put in football and netball in the region would not be the same.”

The organisation also aims to give more recognition to their volunteers across the region.

“AFLNEB has introduced a volunteer recognition program in 2024 supported by APCO Service Stations, and we would strongly encourage clubs to get in touch if they have someone they would like to nominate to

be recognised,” Mr Menon said.

AFLNEB is also currently looking for more volunteers and encourages anyone who is considering putting their hand up to help.

“It doesn’t have to be a role on a club committee, it could be something as simple as a shift in the canteen, waving the flags behind the goals or turning the sausages on the barbecue at Auskick,” Mr Menon said.

“As the saying goes, many hands make light work.

“We know that volunteerism is on the decline and clubs across the region continue to identify volunteer strain as one of their biggest concerns, with too much left up to too few.”

For more information on AFLNEB visit https:// www.aflneb.com.au/.

Something for Everyone

THE Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) in the Hume region, facilitated by The Centre for Continuing Education in Wangaratta, is a beacon of hope for combating loneliness among the elderly.

This program offers volunteers like Lora Watson the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of isolated elderly people.

Lora, a staff member at The Centre, joined ACVVS

Helping combat loneliness among elderly residents

earlier this year. She said she was deeply moved by a television program that shed light on the isolation faced by many older people.

With no grandparents alive of her own, Lora felt a strong desire to form meaningful connections with an elderly person in her community.

She emphasised the value of these relationships noting that you can learn so much from them.

Despite initial

concerns, Lora found the application process to be straightforward, thanks to the guidance of the program officer Paula Currell.

Now, as a volunteer, she enjoys simple yet meaningful interactions with her elderly companion, which include chatting over a cup of tea and exchanging letters and emails.

Through these interactions, Lora has not only brought

companionship but also joy and purpose to those she visits.

Sue Geals, the chief executive officer of The Centre for Continuing Education, said she is proud to be facilitating such a worthwhile program as ACVVS in addressing the issue of loneliness among the elderly.

“We are proud to facilitate a program that makes a real difference in the lives of isolated older

people,” Sue said.

“The impact of simple acts of kindness, and companionship like those demonstrated by our volunteers, cannot be overstated.”

The ACVVS offers a lifeline to many isolated elderly people in the Hume Region.

Volunteers like Lora are shining examples of the program’s impact, demonstrating how a little time and companionship can go a long way in

COMBATING ISOLATION:

Lora Watson has enjoyed her time volunteering for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme.

brightening someone’s day. The dedication of volunteers like Lora who reach out and connect with the elderly members of our community, ensuring that no one is without a friend are to be commended.

If you would like to join this worthwhile community program contact Paula Currell on 0427 964 657 or email: paulacurrell@thecentre. vic.edu.au or go to www.thecentre.vic.edu.au to find out more.

KING VALLEY NEWS

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

Plan done, but King Valley Residents Association ends

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

JUST over two years since it was formally established, the King Valley Residents Association (KVRA) has called it a day, with the small committee saying it could no longer meet the increasing demands on its time.

It comes after the release of a comprehensive Upper King Valley Community Action Plan the KVRA spent months developing with support from Rural Aid Australia, involving extensive consultation with local community groups, and workshops held at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve last year.

Creating a community-driven plan was one of the reasons the KVRA was formed, when a small group of local people got together back in 2021 to share their concerns about investment and developments taking place in the King Valley which it said had been based on plans made by council, government departments and single-interest bodies including Tourism North East, without the agreement or involvement of current residents and the broader community.

One of the founding committee members, Jenny Ashby, said while they’d hoped to build a robust and sustainable group with representation from across community groups who could share the workload, it had unfortunately been left to four residents to manage it on their own.

She said, as is the case with many volunteer-based groups, it was becoming too heavy a burden for a handful of people who were juggling other volunteer and personal commitments.

“It was decided that the significant achievements to date were

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens

Club will host a social gathering at its clubrooms in Tara Court today from 1.30pm.

Indoor carpet bowls is on Thursday from 12 noon, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the group’s clubrooms or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

Social event next Wednesday, May 29 will be a bus trip to Eldorado, leaving from Swan Street at 9.30am.

THE Australian Plant Society’s next meeting will be held on Thursday, May 23 from 7pm, at the Masonic Hall, corner Esmond and Appin Streets.

Guest speaker will be Sophie Enders on the theme of gardens for wildlife. All welcome.

SUPPORT Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta by taking part in the Pub Chorus at The Vine Hotel on Thursday, May 23 from 7pm.

It’s a chance to sing along with others in three-part harmony to Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Go Your Own Way’, and at the same time raise funds for

a good place to stop and allow more energetic members of the community and active community groups to pick up the Community Action Plan and take it forward,” Ms Ashby said.

“Rosie Suter and I want to thank all those people who supported the concept of a resident’s association – our monthly meetings ranged from six people to 26 people attending.

“Our KVRA committee members are stepping away to concentrate their energy on the other community groups we belong

the mentoring program. Visit www.thevinehotel.net.au to secure your tickets.

WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held in St Patrick’s supper room on Friday, May 24 from 2pm to 4pm. Music will be provided by the Rustic Ramblers, with dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, admission $5 members, $7 nonmembers, includes afternoon tea. For details, phone Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451.

IKIGAI Martial Arts Academy will host a fundraiser/open day on Sunday, June 9 at the Wangaratta Masonic Hall in Appin Street. There will be an open mat, sausage sizzle, baked goods, raffle, games, prizes and more. Entry by donation. For details, phone 0473 477 567.

THOONA CWA will host an afternoon of entertainment with the Ukeladies at Thoona Hall on Monday, June 17 from 1.30pm. Entry is $10 per head, afternoon tea provided, RSVP June 12 to Kathy on 0427 655 678.

gotiations over the Rural City of Wangaratta infrastructure works in Whitfield and Cheshunt, forming a working group to adapt council’s plans for Cheshunt’s main street to better suit the community, also raising waste management issues with council and discussing the potential impact of increased visitor numbers on the environment.

The main strategies identified in the action plan were to “actively maintain a clean King River and restore biodiversity, build community connections, enhance local community services and strengthen the local business base”.

Among the top-ranking concerns listed by respondents to a survey undertaken during the planning process, were to have a clean river, retain a police presence in the community and to proactively protect the environment and biodiversity of the King Valley.

Jenny Ashby and Rosie Suter say it will now be up to existing community groups to drive the action plan, with groups such as King Basin Landcare already working on river health; and motivated individuals have been meeting with key service providers in Wangaratta seeking more local aged care support for people who are ageing in the Upper King Valley.

Cheshunt Biggest Morning Tea on today

AN Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event supporting the Cancer Council, will be held at the Cheshunt Hall in Cheshunt this morning.

The morning tea will begin from 10.30am and there will be a raffle, with all welcome to attend.

Telstra outage in Moyhu from next week

FOLLOWING the postponement of major works scheduled for April, Telstra has advised the upgrade of the mobile base station in Moyhu will now take place from Monday, May 27 to Wednesday, June 12.

Temporary service disruptions or a reduction in mobile coverage can be expected, with the network scheduled to be fully offline between Monday, June 3 to Friday, June 7.

Telstra advises the site will be back online over the long weekend from COB Friday, June 7 to Sunday, June 10, with finalised testing to take place on Tuesday, June 11 to Wednesday, June 12.

King Basin Landcare planting workshop

THE King Basin Landcare Group (KBLG) and friends are holding a tree planting workshop at Jessie’s Creek in Whitfield as part of an ongoing project to maintain the beauty and accessibility of the native reserve.

The KBLG and the Whitfield District Primary School Junior Landcarers have been busy over the last 12 months identifying plants and re-vamping the walking track along the creek.

to such as Sustainable King Valley, King Basin Landcare, Whitlands Progress Association and more.

“We have achieved the initial purpose of the group – to have a community driven plan for the Upper King Valley - and we thank everyone who contributed to it.”

During its time, the KVRA held open monthly meetings at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve where everyone was welcome, and a variety of issues were debated. It played a key role during ne-

SOCIAL CALENDAR

They say with 30 plus community groups in the King Valley – many, such as the King Valley Tourism Association and Sustainable King Valley, are keen to work on identified actions that align with their group’s purpose and mandate.

The plan is now being distributed within the community which can be used to support the development of future projects and funding applications, with a digital copy available by contacting Jenny Ashby via email to jenashby1971@gmail.com.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral. All welcome. For details, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.

WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present).

The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 7pm to 8.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. Contact Bevan on 0437 196 118.

WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome.

Morning tea provided – please bring your own cup.

Contact Maureen O’Keefe on 0409 215 881.

WANGARATTA Orchid Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6.30pm in St Patrick’s supper room, off Ford Street. Meetings include flower shows and talks, and everyone is welcome.

Phone Hans on 0428 119 737.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of each month from 9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street. Beginner and experienced members welcome. Contact Frances on 0417 158 220.

OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta. New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.

All are welcome to come along and plant some trees this Saturday from 10am to 12pm at Jessie’s Creek Reserve (at the entrance to the school) with a barbecue lunch provided from 12pm to 1pm.

RSVP by Thursday via email to kingbasinlandcare@gmail.com.

King Valley CWA meet

THE King Valley CWA meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6.30pm at the Whitfield Recreational Reserve.

The next meeting will be held on Thursday, June 6 with all local women welcome to join in and RSVP to Mary on 0427 404 411.

Bring your own bat, $2 entry fee, and small plate to share.

Contact June Uebergang on 0497 860 785 (text only).

COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am. Beginners welcome.

Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.

WANGARATTA Toastmasters meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street.

For more information, contact Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881.

WANGARATTA Family History Society opens each Thursday from 10am to 3pm in the local history room at the Wangaratta Library. Outside of these hours, assistance is available by appointment only by emailing wangfamhs@gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.

TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au

OXLEY table tennis weekly social competition is held on Mondays from 7pm at the Oxley Hall. Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in.

PROJECT COMPLETE: While the King Valley Residents Association may be no more, Jenny Ashby and fellow committee members are pleased with what it has achieved, including the creation of a community-driven action plan.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

Best buddies

Cathedral College Wangaratta

CROSS-age interactions at school are exciting for both the younger and older students.

The prep and year 12 buddies had a great lunch time together playing in the junior school playground.

LEARNING TOGETHER: Indya Rossato, Harry Cobham and Alex Tiso are among the cross-age school buddies enjoying their time together.

Walking tall Wangaratta Primary School

STUDENTS eagerly participated in National Walk Safely to School Day, their footsteps echoing a collective commitment to health and safety.

Accompanied by local police officers, the journey became an engaging blend of community and education.

Excitement filled the air as students, parents and teachers embraced the brisk morning walk.

Officers shared road safety tips, raising safety awareness for not only walking, but riding, skating and scooting to school.

As they reached the school gates, laughter and chatter mingled with a shared sense of accomplishment.

This collaborative effort epitomized the spirit of fostering safe habits and community bonds.

Up for the challenge

Appin Park Primary School

PHYSICAL skills are a large part of the development of all Appin Park students.

The weekly physical education program helps with the sequential development of specific skills and in turn these skills are implemented in the sports and games each class play during their sport sessions.

Students are encouraged to challenge themselves in all aspects of the sporting field, from cross country running, ball games, athletics, swimming and the variety of coordination skills required in all areas.

Personal best efforts are the desired outcome for all and in doing so, hopefully students will go on to engage in the many sporting activities offered within the wider community.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT: Year two student Gabby Cox showed great accuracy with her passing skills during the PE program.

School event.

CAPTIVATING ARTWORK: Luca Sessions was among the students making a snail using different colours.

True colours

Wangaratta West Primary School

PREP students are excitedly exploring the world of colours, identifying and naming each hue with growing confidence.

Students have applied their knowledge to making colourful snails using rainbow colours.

New arrival

Carraragarmungee Primary School

FENELLA is the name of a beautiful young Border Collie puppy.

Owned by teacher Thomas O’Hehir, Fen will be the new therapy dog at Carra (when she’s older) and she is already showing the right personality and temperament for the job.

The kids are excited about meeting her next week and Mr O’Hehir knows they’ll do an excellent job looking after her, like they did with Jean.

1What are the largest reptiles living today? Are they a) komodo dragons, b) boa constrictors, c) Galapagos tortoises, or d) saltwater crocodiles?

3Extremophiles are organisms that live in extreme conditions. Where can you find them? Is it a) in volcanic springs, b) in soda lakes, c) in hydrothermal vents, or d) all of the above?

4What is the maximum number of right angles that can be found in a triangle? Is it a) 1, b) 2, or c) 3?

5?Which of these units is not part of the metric system? Is it a) metre, b) ampere, c) second, or d) acre?

a) The angles in a triangle must add up to 180 degrees. As a right angle is 90 degrees, and a triangle has three angles, the maximum must be one right angle. Otherwise, if there were two 90 degree angles, it would add up to 180 degrees and there would be nothing left for the

LITTLE BEAUTY: Fenella, Mr O’Hehir’s new Border Collie puppy, is pictured here at just eight weeks old.

MORNING WALK: School captains (centre) Mark Henschke and Maya Blackall were joined by local police officers Constable McCarthy and First Constable McInnes, at the National Walk Safely to

to attend.

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Wangaratta junior netball competition

THERE was plenty of action on the netball courts at the Wangaratta Barr Reserve as teams battled it out in round four of the Wangaratta Netball Association’s junior competition last Saturday.

Wangaratta Chronicle photographer Kurt Hickling captured these players in action.

Results from round four were as follows:

PREMIER LEAGUE A

ROVERS BROWN 23 def MAGPIES BLACK 12

ROVERS GOLD 15 lost to MYRTLEFORD

BLACK 19

MAGPIES WHITE 24 def WHOROULY LIONS 8

PREMIER LEAGUE B

TARRA BLUE 11lost to PIGEONS BLUE 29

TARRA RED 18 lost to ROVERS PINK 20

MYRTLEFORD RED 31def PIGEONS WHITE 6

GRETA BLUE 11 lost to MILAWA RED 24

SECTION 1

ROVERS BLACK 29 def ROVERS YELLOW 11

MYRTLEFORD WHITE 7 lost to WILD CATS 14

STARS 5 lost to MOYHU 33

MILAWA WHITE 13def ROVERS NAVY 12

SECTION 2

CHERRY BOMBS 13 lost to MILAWA BLUE 24

WESTIE WOLVES 1 lost to GUMLEAVES 13

MALTESERS 19 def ANGELS 16

NORTH WANG 14 def GRETA WHITE 9

SECTION 3

SWIFTNETS 5 lost to WHOROULY CUBS 21

JELLY BEANS 46 def THE AUSSIE GIRLS 2

WILD WEST 6 lost to GOAL GETTERS 14

SKITTLEPOD 8 def WILDFLOWERS 6

Ella Tucker

Sophie Rickard

Willow Szaraszek

Tia Wells

Reese Whiteman

Indie MorsonGoldie Cartwright

Neve Cresswell

Aayla Crosher

Paige Lee-Dummet

Autumn table tennis premiers decided

ON a very pleasant Wednesday evening on May 15 the Grand Finals of the Wangaratta Table Tennis Association Autumn competition were played for each grade.

RESULTS:

A GRADE:

This contest was an action packed final going all the way to the seventh game of the doubles decider for an outcome.

The successful pair of Andrew Lindner and new Wangaratta resident, Pat Sehgal managed to overcome Mark Comensoli and Markus Angehrn in a thrilling doubles rubber after the singles results were tied at two matches all.

The singles match between Andrew and Mark was also a nail-biter with Mark, always at his best in finals claiming this exhausting match.

Both players needed some of Mark’s lollies to keep them going through the seven setter.

Final rubber score: The ‘Premiers’, Plum Digital (Andrew Lindner, Pat Sehgal) def Somerset Comms (Mark Comensoli, Marcus Angehrn) by the narrowest of margins 3-2.

B GRADE:

James Loughnan and Robert Voss are the B Grade premiers accounting for the enthusiastic John Maletta and Michael Bellingham by winning three singles matches, making it an early result.

Robert’s focus and perseverance helped him secure both his singles and James added one.

John valiantly claimed a win over James for the defeated team.

Final rubber score: Autumn Premiers, N.E. Ag & Industrial (Robert Voss, James Loughnan, Ken Parker[absent}) def Nathan Vincent Contracting (John Maletta, Michael Bellingham) 3-1.

C GRADE:

Andrew Higgins and Michelle Bowd completed the autumn season in winning form to finish as C Grade premiers.

They outclassed Klaus Kazenwadel and Julie Lindner winning three of the four singles matches and Klaus secured one match for the runners-up.

Final rubber score: NVC (Andrew Higgins, Michelle Bowd) def N.E. Ag & Industrial (Klaus Kazenwadel, Julie Lindner) 3-1.

D GRADE:

Seth Knox and Renee McCarthy became D grade premiers when they defeated Matt Curran and Paul Hughes in an exciting final.

Seth was the star player winning both his singles matches.

Both matches went the full seven sets so he was happy with the outcome.

Renee added a singles win and Paul recorded a singles win for the runners-up.

NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Ten NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

Our Club offers specialist Basketball Clinics, as well as pathways through Senior Big V Competitions.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Final rubber score: Autumn premiers, Plum Digital (Seth Knox, Renee McCarthy) def NVC (Matt Curran, Paul Hughes) 3-1.

The Consistency winners for the Autumn Competition are:

A Grade: Andrew Lindner and Ash Wurtz (tied).

B Grade: John Bajada.

C Grade: Tim Oliver and Andrew Higgins (tied).

D Grade: Seth Knox, Jake Delloro, Matt Curran and Paul Hughes (tied).

The winter competition commences in early June following two Wednesday muster nights.

All interested players are invited to attend. Enquiries Tom Brown (club president) 0429 809 927.

ROUND RESULTS:

U14 Boys 1 52 def by Frankston 1 62

(Top Scorers: N. Atukorala 14, C. Keatch 12, C. Hueston 9)

U14 Boys 2 29 def by Wyndham 3 55

(Top Scorers: N. Caccianiga 6, L. Curtis 6, E. Kain 5)

U14 Girls 1 34 def Diamond Valley 2 30

(Top Scorers: A. Damianopoulos 10, E. O’Neill 8, M. Moscrop 6)

U14 Girls 2 31 def Geelong 3 14

(Top Scorers: L. Nedelkovski 12, E. Kennedy 5, M. Tomkins 5)

U16 Boys 1 66 def Knox 3 35

(Top Scorers: C. Clark 17, E. Ockenden 15, A. Hamill 14)

U16 Boys 2 44 def by Ballarat 2 59

(Top Scorers: J. Kelly 18, B. Harvey 6, S, Inch 6)

U16 Boys 3 40 def by Macedon 1 52

(Top Scorers: O. McGahan 10, A. Richardson 10, E. Damon 6)

U16 Girls 1 - Eltham 2 -

U16 Girls 2 33 def Eltham 3 22

(Top Scorers: M. Watson 16, T. Pettie 5, C. Campbell 5)

U18 Boys 34 def by Keilor 6 45

(Top Scorers: J. Vearing 10, A. Button 8, H. Pople 4)

Grade: Premiers, Andrew Lindner and Pat Sehgal. R/ Up Marcus Angehrn and Mark Comensoli.

The ‘Pack’ is on the move

THE Wolfpack enjoyed a successful ‘club dubs’ on Sunday, May 19 in round five of Storm Goulburn Murray Cup rugby against Wodonga Wombats at Baranduda.

The Pack started the day with an absolute thriller by their ladies’ league tag.

After an adjustment to their structure the ladies came alive sealing their first win for the season against Wombats when a strong defence and a fiery attack had

them hold the opposition to 28-0 at full-time.

The senior men’s kicked off an intense match, working hard in the ruck putting the opposition on the backfoot.

Playing hard and fast they held the lead until the final whistle locking in 24-18 triumph.

After such a successful day for The Wolfpack they set their eyes for a repeat in round six in Corowa this Sunday, May 26 as they take on Border Bears.

Consistency winners A Grade: Andrew Lindner, Ash Wurtz.

D Grade: Premiers, Renee McCarthy and Seth Knox. R/Up Paul Hughes and Matt Curran.

HAPPY PATIOLE: The Wolfpack’s Newyear Patiole scores a spectacular try in the corner in the men’s win over Wodonga Wombats.

PHOTO: Ivy Higgins

B Grade: Premiers, James Loughnan and Robert Voss. R/Up, Michael Bellingham and John Maletta.

A

C Grade: Premiers, Michelle Bowd and Andrew Higgins. R/Up, Julie Lindner and Klaus Kazenwadel.

Devils depth tested in 3-2 loss

By WILLSON MACK

AN injury interrupted second half has seen Wangaratta City fall to the undefeated Myrtleford in Sunday’s La Fiera Derby at Savoy Park.

The Devils led 2-0 at halftime but injuries to Elijah Royal and Archer Hill saw the away side’s depth tested and Myrtleford made the most of that posting three second half goals to escape with a victory.

Wangaratta City coach Raff Molinaro said it was a story of two halves for his side.

“The result was probably caused as a result of the depth of our squad,” Molinaro said.

“The first half we were su-

per against a team that’s undefeated, we were 2-0 up and they didn’t look like scoring and we looked like the side I know we can be.

“And then in the second half we had two players come off with injury due to late tackles so we had to rearrange a few things and that disrupted the whole side.

“That’s when Myrtleford got on top and won 3-2.”

There was plenty of feeling in the clash, as there always is in La Fiera Derbies, with Molinaro saying his players enjoyed the occasion.

“The occasion was great, there was plenty of passion in it as there always is,” he said.

“You wish every game could be like that and the

boys really stood up to the occasion in the first half.

“We’ll probably be without Elijah (Royal) for a few weeks now, he’s in a moon boot with a foot injury and we’ll have to wait and see how Archer’s (Hill) feeling later in the week.”

For the Devils, Raul Pahina was excellent, while Mason Taylor scored both of his side’s goals.

“Raul played possibly the best game I’ve seen him play,” Molinaro said.

“Mason Taylor scored both of our goals and was also strong as well.”

Wangaratta now face Cobram who are just one spot above them on the table in eight spot.

Knights roll Bears in GM rugby battles

ROUND five of The Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership opened on Sunday, May 19 with The Wangaratta Knights against The Border Bears Ladies League Tag in Sarvaas Park, Lavington.

The Knights Ladies approached the game with a positive attitude, which carried through the whole day.

In the early minutes of the match – Tia Tahana-Phelan scored the first try for the day, with an unsuccessful conversion.

Other try scorers for the game were Tiana Stuart (1), Nicola Melville (1), Jacinta Shaw, (1), Destiny Dodd (1), and Coni Dodd (2).

A highlight of the match was captain Fredericka Allan scoring her first conversion kick of her career, gaining two extra points for the team.

The game concluded with a score of 38-0, resulting in a third win for the Knights ladies this season and a position of second place in the ladder.

Ladies coach Sal Kaiwai relished the win.

“I’m very happy with the bonds our team have made on and off the field thus far and I’m excited to see each and every one of our players confidence grow and phenomenal potential unleash, Kaiwai said.

“It was a great game for our Lady Knights against a very promising Bear’s side.”

The senior men’s tackle team followed the ladies in their victory and also regis-

Girl In The Crowd Images

La Fiera joy for Lady Devils

tered a win, defeating Border Bears 24-18 in a tight tussle.

With try scores from coach and prop Mathew Ferguson (1), winger Matthew Flewin (2), and lock Stephen Smith (1), and all four conversion kicks by halfback Dean Simmons successful, there was a sense of confidence felt among the team.

The Border Bears put up a good fight in the second half, but the Knights maintained their lead with a strong defence.

The win lifted the Knights from 8th place on the ladder to 6th.

Captain Scott Miller said the win was just reward for the squad.

“The team’s success has been building over the last few weeks, and we are looking forward to future chal-

AFLNEB Female Football - Round 7Bunton Park - Sunday May 26th Bunton Park - 26th U14 10:30am • U17 11:50am

lenges,” Miller said.

Both teams celebrated their wins together that evening, and hope to carry on the energy into round six.

Best on Ground votes for the women’s team were awarded to Fredericka Allan, Chloe Darcy, and Adelaide Fitzpatrick.

Best on Ground for the men’s side went to Luke Ferguson, Alishad French, and Dean Simmons.

Player’s Player votes were awarded to Nicola Melville, and Dean Simmons.

If you are interested in trying out Rugby League or Rugby League Tag, training is held on Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Glenrowan Recreational Reserve.

For more info check out the club’s social media pages @ Wangaratta Knights RLFC.

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A COMPREHENSIVE

90-minute display from Wangaratta City overwhelmed La Fiera rivals Myrtleford to claim the Christina Mancuso Cup 4-0.

The first team to venture to Savoy Park this season, the Lady Devils made their presence felt from the first whistle, scoring within four minutes through Lara Seeger.

Taking a 2-0 lead to the main break, a brace by Bianca Mulqueen in quick succession in the second half all but sealed the victory for City, who kept their fifth clean sheet of the season.

Coach Terry Masters said it was one his team’s most complete performances all season.

“The girls played really well, the ball movement

was super and it was one our better games defensively, it’s a strong point of our team,” he said.

“I think a few of them have settled in defence now, Leanne is quite dominant in the air at centre back which is an absolute asset in women’s football.

“With our defence being so strong we fed the ball through the midfield a fair bit and were were strong through the middle… I don’t think our keeper had to make a save.”

Captain Hannah Swindley also added to her season goal tally in the first half, who along with Seeger, Leanne Branson and Charlotte Brundell were among the visiting team’s best.

The perpetual trophy won by Wangaratta on the day is in its second season,

AFLNEB Female Football - Round 7Lavington Sports Ground - Sunday May 26th Ground - 26th 2:00pm

named after the late Christina Mancuso, who spent time playing at both clubs and was well-respected as a teammate.

After hanging onto the silverware last year, Savoy will hand over the cup to the Lady Devils for the first time.

Masters said the girls were rapt to have taken out the trophy in front of a receptive crowd of travelling fans.

“It was good for the girls to get the trophy, you’ll take any bit of silverware that comes around,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter where the teams are on the ladder, they usually have a fairly good hit out against each other.”

The Lady Devils will take on Cobram this Sunday as they look to continue their unbeaten run of four games.

EAT MY DUST: Destiny Dodd (left) breaks through the defence with Tiana Stewart (middle) supporting. PHOTO:

THRIVING UNDER PRESSURE: Lara McNaughton runs through traffic in the midfield.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

HOOPING BALL: Stoycho Ivanov sends a ball forward. PHOTO: Janet Watt

SLIDING CHALLENGE: Wangaratta City’s Raul Pahina tries to win the ball back in his side’s 3-2 loss to Myrtleford on Sunday.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

‘Pies push Corowa-Rutherglen aside to stay undefeated

■ From back page

“I can’t fault them on that, they just didn’t let anything rattle them,” she said.

“We’re just really focusing on our strengths and what we’re good at and we always just bring that back to how much we like each others’ company and like to play.”

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers couldn’t win the second game of their season against Wodonga at WJ Findlay Oval.

The Hawks would’ve seen themselves as a strong chance to down Wodonga and after leading by a goal at half-time they were in the box seat to do so.

However, it was the Bulldogs who turned the heat up in the second half to run away with a 51-56 victory.

For Rovers, Sami Kreltszheim was outstanding shooting 23 goals at 80 per cent, while Wodonga young gun Lily McKimmie made 23 conversions from 27 attempts.

NETBALL REPORT

Convincing margins across round of Ovens and King netball action MATCH PREVIEWS

By WILLSON MACK

IT was a landslide of a weekend of Ovens and King netball with all margins standing at 11 goals or more.

For Tarrawingee they posted a 26-goal win over Moyhu in a clinical display, breaking a game clear of their counterparts after sitting level going into the match.

Off the back of the 58-32 victory, the Bulldogs have risen to fourth on the ladder and will be gunning for three wins on the trot when they face the second-last placed Benalla All Blacks on Saturday.

Tarrawingee started the game hot, jumping to a 10-goal lead at quarter time with that margin rising at every break.

Dogs star shooter Kaylee Allan couldn’t be stopped netting 45 goals, while Kelly Jackson chipped in with seven goals of her own.

In the Whorouly versus Milawa contest it was the Demons who continued their strong season with a convincing 27-goal victory.

Milawa’s Emily Canny converted 51 goals from 58 attempts and was her side’s best on court in the 31-58 clash.

The Demons remain second on the ladder with themselves and Greta the only two undefeated sides in the competition.

In the closest game of the round it was Bright who pushed North Wangaratta aside, grabbing a 32-43 victory at North Wangaratta.

Bright’s Kate Buckley made 22 goals with Ashleigh Grimes pitching in with 19, while for North Wangaratta Hayleight Frost made 25 goals.

In the final two games of the round, Goorambat made light work of Benalla All Blacks, downing them 45-33, while Bonnie Doon flexed their muscles over King Valley in the 57-36 contest.

NO LOOK: Maddie Canning shoots a pass off

CONTESTED: Moyhu’s Ainslee Dowling tries to win the ball back.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

ASSESSING: Grace Watson-Long assesses her options.

IN FORM: Sami Kreltszheim was one of Rovers’ best in their loss to Wodonga.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

UNBEATEN: Leah Jenvey is playing a pivotal role in Wangaratta’s unbeaten run to start the season.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Rovers girls represent AFLNEB

SENIORS

AFTER a team dinner and a night at the Big 4 in Bendigo, the seniors got to the Mercy Junortoun Sports Precinct ready to take on Central Victoria.

Rovers were represented by first time interleague players Ella Bradley, Emma Gosbell, Charli Simmons and Chloe Kungl.

Back for another year was Amy Collins and Jacinta Findlay.

Central Victoria came out firing quickly putting scoreboard pressure onto AFLNEB in the first half, going into the first half with a four goal lead.

AFLNEB had a slow start, taking the half to work out how to flow together.

The second half, AFLNEB increased their pressure only letting Central Vic score one goal for the half.

Final score: Central Victoria 5.4 (34) v AFLNEB 0.1 (1).

AFLNEB had a break as Central Victoria played Goulburn Murray.

AFLNEB then played Goulburn Murray with an improved game plan.

The first half AFLNEB went hard for the ball but could not capitalise on the scoreboard.

However, in the second half, Rover Chloe Kungl ran onto the ball in the forward pocket and managed to slot the first goal for the AFLNEB team, leading them to win.

AFLNEB 1.4 (10) to Goulburn Murray 0.2 (2).

Securing the grand final

spot for the AFLNEB team.

The grand final for the day saw AFLNEB take on Central Vic on what felt like the coldest part of the day.

AFLNEB had their game plan ready and played hard against Central Vic putting body on and landing some great contested marks.

AFLNEB was still in the game at half-time with the score Central Vic 1.1 (7) to AFLNEB 1.0 (6).

The start of the second half saw an all Rovers midfield with Amy Collins in ruck, Emma Gosbell, Charli Simmons and Jacinta Findlay taking prime spots.

Rovers Chloe Kungl and Ella Bradley starting in the forward line.

AFLNEB defended hard with the ball in their D50 for most of the half.

A few missed opportunities lead to AFLNEB not matching Central Vic on the scoreboard, final score 2.3 (15) to 1.3 (9).

Rovers Chloe Kungl was award the best on ground medal for the grand final.

Under 18s

After three weeks of training and selection, we are so proud of our four players getting selected for the interleague squad - first timers to interleague Lily Gibb, Clare Collins and Mila Armstrong with Ammy Thompson being selected for the second year in a row.

The AFLNEB under 18s team came out swinging in their first match again home side Central Victoria FL.

Final score Central Vic 0.1 (1) v AFLNEB 6.7 (43).

▶ ROVERS

REPRESENTATIVES: (L-R)

Wangaratta Rovers senior representatives Amy Collins, Emma Gosbell, Jacinta Findlay, Charli Simmons, Chloe Kungl and Ella Bradley.

Ammy and Mila doing well in the mid-field with Clare and Lily linking up together beautifully.

Coming off their win, they went straight back to footy playing the second round against Goulburn Murray.

It was a tightly contested game, with Goulburn Murray hitting the scoreboard early, AFLNEB kept the pressure on and slowing the Goulburn Murray attack and hitting back, but when the final siren went, just fell short.

AFLNEB 2.5 (17) v Goulburn Murray 4.7 (31).

The dominating win against Central Vic secured their place in the grand final where they played against Goulburn Murray again.

Goulburn Murray starting strong collecting the first goal for the game.

Through a great passage of play, Clare Collins marked the ball in the middle of the ground, kicked to Lily Gibb on the wing who gave the hands off to Mila Armstrong running through to put the AFLNEB team on the attack.

AFLNEB pressure on the ball was immense but unable to capitalise on the scoreboard.

Goulburn Murray 2.8 (20) v AFLNEB 1.3 (9).

THE seven man seniors, or 30 plus, tennis team from the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Cub wound up their involvement in the enjoyable three day 35th Tennis Seniors SA Teams Festival tournament on Monday held in the SA Riverland region towns such as Loxton and Renmark.

The flexible format suited this team as it was all played

on grass, their preferred surface.

Team manager Noel Boyd reported it was a successful trip on and off the court.

“We have had mixed results on the scoreboard this year with some wins and some losses,” Boyd said.

“But tennis has been the absolute winner with great company and sensational autumn weather here.

“As we were playing in a 65+ section some of our opposition had a bit more youth on their side than us and so this year we didn’t make the finals.

“We had some very enjoyable matches with teams from Canberra, NSW, Ballarat and of course from SA.

“We’ve invited all these players to come and visit Wangaratta and the NE ei-

Senior tennis players’ SA adventure

ther for our annual January tournament or to try our NE seniors regional circuit sometime.”

When asked if they have remained injury free Noel answered, “Well, put it this way, there’s no new injuries.”

Despite the hectic schedule the athletes still found time to visit a number of the Riverland’s famed wineries according to Noel.

Hit the winning run or just had a great day. Get a permanent reminder with

DISHED OUT: Clare Collins gets a handball away.

SENIOR STARS: (L-R) WLTCP senior tennis stars Doug Wain, Geoff Allan, Peter Ablezej,Noel Boyd, Michael Falkenberg, Phil Dryden and Russell O’Brien.

UNDER 18: (L-R) Rovers u18s Lily Gibb, Clare Collins, Mila Armstrong and Ammy Thompson.

Devils depth tested in loss

Page 21

MEGAN Freeman’s Tarrawingee put in a strong performance for her 150th game, downing Moyhu 58-32 in a one-sided affair.

22

Magpies make statement

WANGARATTA is the only undefeated side of the A grade netball competition after downing Corowa-Rutherglen in Saturday’s top of the table clash at John Foord Oval.

The Magpies led at every change, even opening up a nine goal buffer at the main break as they held on to a

BY WILLSON MACK

wmack@ nemedia.com.au

45-54 victory in what was a statement making display.

Corowa-Rutherglen were forced to throw arguably the competition’s best defender into attack in Sophie Hanra-

han after goal-shooter Lou Madden was forced to exit the arena due to injury in the second quarter.

Madden was on fire making 11 goals from just as many attempts.

And the Magpies made the most of that blow with Amanda Umanski shooting 36 goals, while Kellie Keen

(13) and Georgia Clark (5) also contributed under the ring.

“I’m really pleased with the way we played,” Wangaratta coach Shea Cunningham said.

“We stuck to what we do best and were really disciplined and structured and made sure we focused on

what we needed to do out there.”

“I still feel like we have a couple of gears that we can go up, which is really exciting to see where we’re at now and knowing that we can improve further,” she said.

“We’re still managing Georgia Clark who’s back from injury, she’s still on

limited minutes at the moment, and we just want to make sure she’s okay.

“We have a few sore bodies, so we just want to make sure that we’re looking after them really well.” Cunningham said she was stoked with how her girls handled the big clash.

■ Continued page 22

■ Story: Page

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling