St Patrick’s Primary School students Leon Bright (le ), Nash Hunter, Millie Naish, Ruby Bright and Helena Malcolm teamed up with Senior Constable Hayley McDonald and Wangaratta police for National Walk Safely to School Day. Story page 4
PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
A MAJOR $2 million upgrade to watermains underneath one of the rural city’s busiest tra c routes began on Thursday morning.
The complex works will see the intersection of Sisely Avenue and Tone Road closed to tra c for the next four months as contractors set out to replace around 270 metres of new pipe below the North East Rail Line and along Sisely Avenue to Bruck Court.
An existing watermain will also
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
be diverted to a new alignment away from Sisley Avenue at the Tone Road intersection.
North East Water acting general manager planning and infrastructure, Tim Golland, said the works were essential to support the region’s growing demand for water services.
The project is scheduled for completion in September and nearby residents have been put on notice to expect higher frequency of heavy vehicles, noise and dust to be produced from the area while construction works are taking place.
Among the works to take place over the next four months will include trenching, horizontal directional drilling and pipe-jacking.
Mr Golland appealed to the
community to obey all signs and directions provided by tra c management sta and to avoid the area in the coming weeks and seek an alternate route.
“We understand that these changes may cause some inconvenience, and we thank the community for their patience and understanding as we progress with this vital project, which will bring lasting bene ts to the community,” he said.
■ Continued page 3
Film screening on Sunday to support John’s cancer battle
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE community is continuing to rally behind local business owner and cruise night organiser, John Giggins, to build his dream car following his stage four brain cancer (Glioblastoma) diagnosis.
The Wangaratta Cinema Centre is hosting a one-o screening of the 1988s cult classic ‘Running on Empty’ this Sunday, 25 May at 3:30pm.
A show and shine will also be held on the second level of The Co Store car park before the screening, and locals are encouraged to come along for an a ernoon of cars, community, and a cause that matters.
Tickets cost $15 and 100 per cent of the proceeds will go toward John’s build, medical support and family.
The funds will support John in building his dream car, a 1980 Ford Falcon XD, done up as Dick Johnson’s Bathurst winning ‘Tru Blue’ race car with a small-block 351 V8 engine and ve-speed manual gear box.
John’s long-time friend of nearly 30 years, Heath Lloyd, is encouraging the commu-
nity to come along to have a good time and support a good local bloke.
“It’s important for us to support one another,” he said.
“John has done so much for the local community.
Share your memories of Bobinawarrah at the hall
By SIMONE KERWIN
MEMORIES and memorabilia which tell the story of the Bobinawarrah Memorial Hall and its surrounds during a gathering at the venue this Sunday, in the lead-up to centenary celebrations later this year.
A ernoon tea will be provided at the hall on Sunday, 25 May from 2.30pm, and locals are invited to come along to share their stories.
Volunteers will be on hand to record any stories or memories of the life of the hall over its 100 years.
Those who have items of interest relating to the history of the Bobinawarrah area, such as photos and newspaper clippings, are encouraged to bring them along so photocopies can be made.
The information gathered on Sunday will be used for a display at the centenary celebration, which will be held on 9 November at the hall.
Anyone unable to attend Sunday’s event who may have items of interest or a story to tell about the district’s past is encouraged to contact Debbie on 0427 273 492 or Sue on 0447 168 437.
“Let’s get together and do the thing that makes a community a community.”
Heath said the idea for Sunday’s event came about a er John Coxhell from the Wangaratta Cinema Centre reached out to o er his support.
“Screening a car film was suggested, so I asked John Giggins what his favourite car film was and he said Running on Empty,” he said.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
WANGARATTA’S Million Paws Walk is expected to attract plenty of canine friends and their owners to the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club at the Wangaratta Showgrounds this Sunday, 25 May.
Walkers can enjoy delicious food, drink, entertainment, raffles and more - all to raise vital funds for the RSPCA toward ending animal cruelty.
Local event coordinator Nicole Oats said they couldn’t wait to see plenty of wagging tails this year.
“The Wangaratta Million Paws Walk has been running for over 20 years and is a fantastic day for people and their dogs, and it makes such a big difference to help RSPCA Victoria end animal cruelty,” Ms Oats said.
Tickets are limited so get in quick, visit the sta at Wangaratta Cinema Centre in person or call on (03) 5721 5555 to secure your seat.
“I would like to thank John Coxhell for his generosity, he has put in a lot of hard work in and purchased the right of the lm for the event.”
LOCAL ART CELEBRATION:
A retrospective exhibition featuring artwork by members of the Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) including Judi McCann and Paddy Milne (pictured) is being held in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta
It includes works which have been part of previous exhibitions held during Across the Arts biennial festivals over the last 25 years.
To celebrate the final year of these festivals, and acknowledge the driving force of GANEAA’s president, Kathy Whelan, a special gathering of artists, friends and supporters will be held on Sunday, 25 May from 2pm to 4pm at the library, to be opened by Benalla Art Gallery director, Eric Nash, and all are welcome to come along.
“This year is the last Million Paws Walk and we’d love for this year to be the biggest one ever in Wangaratta.
“Locals can join us at the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club grounds and we encourage everyone to 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 are open at millionpawswalk.com. au/Wangaratta, and those booking online by 24 May will automatically receive discounted tickets.
Sunday’s Wangaratta Million Paws Walk at the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club grounds will start at 9.30am with the walk kicking off at 10am and the event concluding at noon.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT: John Coxhell, Heath Lloyd and Troy Croucher are encouraging local car enthusiasts to come along for an a ernoon of cars, community and a cause that matters.
PHOTO: Auto Chick Photography
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
“Stolen my life”: Victim tells of Standover man’s heavy toll
A STANDOVER man’s frightening extortion attempt of a Wangaratta tobacco store subsequently set on re ruined the life of the Wangaratta woman who was threatened and trapped in the burning building, a court has heard.
The 23-year-old Doreen defendant appeared from a Port Phillip Prison virtual link at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, sitting in silence as he heard the extremely emotional and burdensome toll his 2023 threats towards a Murphy Street store
worker had made on her life.
He was to be sentenced, but magistrate Ian Watkins said he needed more time to consider the complex material of the case, with sentencing to be made at Wodonga Magistrates’ Court on 28 May.
A victim impact statement read to the court yesterday by prosecutor Anthony Albore, said the defendant and his unknown co-o ender who lmed the interaction between the victim and the man on 4 July, 2023 had “stolen” the victim’s life. “I have experienced signi -
cant trauma throughout my life which I had overcome, but it has come back 10-fold,” the statement read.
A er being rescued from the same building as it was set on re in the early hours of 27 July that year, the victim said she had been diagnosed with skin cancer for a second time, was losing hair and continually had the shingles.
The woman said she no longer had a social life following the incident, losing the joy in hobbies and has friends run errands like groceries and
pharmacy visits for her.
“I can’t have my grandson visit me here anymore because I can’t put him in danger,” the statement read.
The victim said she sold her car because the defendant and his unknown co-o ender saw it upon their arrival at the back of the store.
The defendant has pleaded guilty to extortion of Wangaratta and Wodonga tobacco stores which were later set on re.
He is suspected to have been acting as a criminal syndicate “soldier” in their e orts to take
over the tobacco market within Victoria.
Videos of both Wangaratta and Wodonga incidents shown in court last week were released on Thursday.
He has been in custody since he was arrested and charged by police at his home on 23 January this year.
Defence counsel Natasha Freijah pleaded to have her client’s young age and delay in being brought before the court taken into consideration.
Ms Freijah said her client undertook valuable work in the
community since his o ending including driving programs and employment training certi cates.
Mr Albore said despite this being the defendant’s rst time in custody, he was not of good character and presented a serious risk due to his involvement with the criminal syndicate.
“This o ending is not to be tolerated and is of grave concern to the community,” he said.
Mr Albore sought a term of imprisonment with a non-parole period.
WORKS TO CLOSE SECTION OF SISELY AVENUE FOR MONTHS
■ from page 1
According to the project’s website, the works will replace ageing infrastructure and upsize pipeline capacity to accommodate future network changes and demand.
Motorists will be asked to detour via Greta Road and the Green Street bridge.
Heavy vehicles looking to head towards Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road will be instructed to detour via Boorhaman Road and Peechelba Road.
As part of the current eight-year pricing period, Mr Golland said
North East Water is investing more than $300 million in essential water and wastewater infrastructure which is more than double the $141 million initially forecast at the start of the period.
“Looking beyond 2026, further significant investment will be required to upgrade ageing infrastructure and meet the needs of our rapidly growing towns,” he said.
“These future projects are being shaped through our next price submission which is currently being developed.” For project updates, you can visit newater. com.au/sisely.
Fishermen, farmers help police in Boorhaman pursuit
A WANGARATTA man was driving twice the speed limit among a Bundalong residential area as he ed police and hit a police van, a court has heard.
The 28-year-old wearing all-black clothing with dreadlocks was taken into custody at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday a er he pleaded guilty to multiple charges of reckless driving, avoiding police, conduct endangering life and drink-driving. The court heard around
1:10pm on 11 January this year police clocked a red and silver Toyota Landcruiser at 82km/h on the Murray Valley Highway in a 60km/h zone in Bundalong.
He was pulled over between Mcphails Road and Andrew Court and police approached the driver and received his licence, but the vehicle then suddenly performed a U-turn and ed.
As he drove towards the residential area, police tracked the defendant’s vehicle going at
101km/h in the 50km/h zone.
Police pursued as he made his way back onto the Murray Valley Highway but o cers lost sight of the car in a farming property on Carmichaels Road.
With nearby residents helping the police search, o cers re-located the vehicle around 2:22pm at Robertsons Track at Boorhaman North.
The defendant drove towards the police van and hit the vehicle as he swerved around it to drive away, with
police locating the abandoned car down the track.
Two shermen who were camping around 100 metres away told police they heard the vehicle come to a stop and saw someone jumping into the river.
Inside the car was a loaded rearm magazine, a part of a .22 ri e and a vehicle interlock which was non-operational.
Police received reports of a suspicious person lurking in the Boorhaman area around 4:20pm, leading to his even-
tual arrest at 4:47pm.
He was taken to Wangaratta Police Station where he blew a 0.027 alcohol reading, telling police he had some beer during the day.
Defence counsel Jessica Wilkinson said her client was subject of a relapse in his alcohol addiction and had served time in custody in the past for dangerous driving.
“Alcohol misuse undermines all of his o ending,” she said.
Ms Wilkinson said the Wangaratta man was homeless
a er the breakdown of his o and on again relationship of the mother of his ve-month old child.
Magistrate Ian Watkins indicated he would place the defendant behind bars as part of a combo sentence and ordered him to be assessed for a community corrections order.
“Driving 101 in a 50 zone in January, where there are many people in a holiday area; the road toll is increasing in recent weeks and general deterrence looms very large,” he said.
Dr. Tony Goodison B.D.Sc (Melb) Dr. Joe Ibrahim D.D.S (Melb)
Michael Lin D.D.S (Melb) Hygienists / Therapists:
Carboon R.D.H (Adel)
O’Sullivan R.D.T (Melb)
NO ACCESS: The Tone Road intersection on Sisely Avenue will be closed from now until September as North East Water begin major watermain works beneath the railway line.
Magistrate shines light on rehab
A LOCAL magistrate has highlighted a “sad” state of affairs in drug and alcohol rehabilitation availability in the area, a er he released a regularly drug-a ected Wangaratta o ender back into the community.
A 22-year-old Wangaratta woman had spent 88 days in three separate stints in custody this year for various drug a ected o ending involving abuse and assault of emergency service workers, employees, support workers and carers.
She pleaded guilty to 38 charges and sought to be released at Wangaratta Magis-
trates’ Court this week.
Her most recent o ending occurred just a week a er she was released from a 34-day stay behind bars.
On 3 March this year police responded to reports of the defendant dancing in the middle of the road on White Street in front of a school.
Later that morning police received numerous calls of the woman on the road once again, removing her clothes in front of the primary school.
Police found her at her house highly erratic and drug e ected, believed to be waving a knife around and abus-
wangarattachronicle.com.au
ing her housemate.
She attempted to ee through a window where she tossed a thong at an o cer, hitting them in the face and leaving a ‘thong mark’.
She ed until she was stopped at a gate, where she was pepper sprayed, before throwing a barshe was denied bail.
Mr Brown said his client was diagnosed with bipolar and borderline personality disorders.
Magistrate Ian Watkins said while he agreed with Mr Brown’s submissions, the defendant’s life was like a “revolving door”.
ways if no help was set up for her outside of custody.
“This is what police will be facing again and again if we can’t do something for her bene t,” he said.
“Sadly there’s a huge gap in mental health facility vacancies in regional Victoria and Wangaratta in particular,” he said.
Magistrate Watkins said he was eager to place the defendant into a rehabilitation facility would be an injustice to keep her in custody any longer but he wasn’t con dent she would comply with a corrections order due to her history of o ending.
Walk this way officer: schools, police take steps for safe journeys for kids
STUDENTS within the rural city took steps to forming a a greater education of staying safe on our roads for National Walk Safely to School Day.
St Patrick’s Primary School and Wangaratta Primary School students braved the early morning chills to make the short stride to school from wellknown town meeting points with teachers, parents and local police by their sides.
Around 50 walkers made their way to St Pat’s on the o cial
walk to school day last Friday, while a healthy contingent of Wangaratta Primary students walked from the District 23 CFA headquarters.
While making friendly conversation on their walks, students were given a valuable education on e ectively using school crossings and walking the footpaths by police, who handed out walk to school day tattoos for participating children.
Wangaratta police youth resource o cer Senior Consta-
ble Hayley McDonald said road safety was everyone’s responsibility and we all need to keep each other safe.
“It’s important to create good habits at young age, we need to set positive and safe examples for them,” she said.
“When we see adults crossing through tra c with children by their side, it’s quite concerning
“It can have a devastating outcome, and we are teaching children unsafe habits.
“We should never be too busy
where we don’t have an extra minute or two to walk a bit further to use a safe crossing point.”
National Walk Safely to School Day, a 26-year initiative, encourages primary school-aged children to walk to school regularly for health, safety, and environmental bene ts.
Sen Const McDonald said the local walk safely to school is about teaching and encouraging young people to cross roads safely.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
READY TO ROLL: Mason and Harry Cook wait at their walk to school meeting point at the CFA District 23 headquarters.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
TEAMWORK: Acting Senior Sergeant Brylie Iskov (le ) and Senior Constable Hayley McDonald (right) ready to help Clancy and Lane Heather in their walk to school. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta’s (NHW) fundraising appeal has received a boost thanks to a generous donation from local business Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate.
The appeal is seeking to support vital hospital services, equipment and patient care, helping NHW continue to meet the growing healthcare needs of the local community.
Kind donations from individuals and local businesses has helped raise nearly $13,000 towards its $70,000 goal.
Cameron Meggs, director at Garry Nash & Co, said their team is proud to support NHW and hopes their contribution encourages others to get involved.
“Having had my four children at the hospital, I’ve experienced rsthand the care
and support NHW provides,” he said.
“It’s so important for our community to support services like this.
“We are lucky to have them, and it’s something we should never take for granted.”
Kim Bennetts, NHW executive director capital, infrastructure and support services, chief procurement o cer (CPO) and interim executive director people and culture, expressed her thanks for the continued support from local businesses.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Garry Nash & Co for their generosity,” she said.
“The support we receive from our local business community shows how much the hospital matters to people in this region.
“These donations help us invest in the resources we need to care for our community, now and into the future.”
Donations to the NHW appeal will help fund the purchase of two state-of-the-art Panda Neonatal Infant Resuscitation Units.
Ms Bennetts said every donation, large or small, contributes to better health outcomes for the region.
All donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.
To make a donation, visit: nhw.org.au/appeal.
August 17.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Northeast Health Wangaratta announces garden grant winners to grow healthy futures
NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) is delighted to announce the successful recipients of its 2025 Community Garden Grants.
The recipients are:
• Appin Park Kindergarten;
• Christopher Robin Kindergarten;
• Coronation Kindergarten;
Eight local kindergartens and early childhood centres each received $1000 to support hands-on garden projects that encourage healthy eating and sustainability.
• Country Buddies Early Learning Centre;
• Wangaratta Children’s Centre;
• Wangaratta West Kindergarten;
• Whorouly Kindergarten;
• The Hub Kindergarten.
These grants are part of NHW’s continued commit-
ment to promoting nutrition education and fresh food awareness from an early age.
Funding will assist educators and children in developing food gardens, learning about sustainability, and building a stronger connection with fresh produce.
“It’s inspiring to see the creativity and enthusiasm these kindergartens bring to helping children understand where their food comes from,” said NHW CEO, Libby Fi s.
“These projects not only support healthy habits but also foster a love of growing, sharing, and eating nutritious food.”
This is the second round of the successful Garden Grants program, building on the momentum and community engagement from last year’s initiative.
Moving out of the family home: Mum’s perspective about son with disability
OVER 16 years ago, when Cathy’s son was just 18, he started talking about wanting to move out and have a home of his own.
This is totally normal, children leave the nest.
It’s the way in which everyone develops, grows and experiences new stu , establish new friendships on their terms, make mistakes, learn from them and develop their own autonomy and independence.
The challenge for Cathy and her family was that their son has a severe physical disability, which also impacts his speech, and he is con ned to a motorized wheelchair.
Whilst he does not have an intellectual disability, naturally his reliance on support is enormous.
For Cathy, as a mother, she could not see how a move from the family home could be possible.
Then she heard of Belonging Matters, a disability support not-for-pro t organisation, and attended a number of workshops.
Cathy was amazed at the inspirational, real-life stories of people with disabilities, both physical and intellectual, achieving ‘the dream’ to move on from living with their parents.
It was evident when she listened to the stories.
There were so many benets that showed the personal growth and sense of ownership people with a disability had over their lives.
Amazingly, despite the obvious hurdles, it was made possible.
Cathy realised that it was more about her fear, as a parent, that held the possibilities at bay.
Cathy’s son was eager and ready to move and with Belonging Matters’ advice, gradually over 12 months she developed the con dence needed to assist her son to pursue this ‘typical’ transition of ‘leaving the nest.’
He has now been living independently for 14 years, with support as required, but it’s now on his terms, in his own home, making his own decisions and being all that he can be as just another member of our diverse community - as it should be.
Given Cathy’s son’s needs, another fear that overshadowed her parenting was
“what will happen when we pass away”.
Being constantly under her care, the worries of his future without her were daunting.
But now 14 years on, he is not only safe and secure but happily living the life he wants.
He’s established new networks and is more fully in charge of his life.
Cathy and her family no longer fear the future and enjoy the freedoms that other parents come to expect when the children move on.
Cathy said they are in contact always but the situation is ‘typical’.
Cathy would strongly recommend attending the workshop My Home, My Way held by Belonging Matters - even if you can’t see ‘the possibilities’ at the moment.
In fact ‘particularly’ if you can’t see the possibilities.
Of course it’s not ‘one size ts all’ and it’s important to tailor to personal need.
Rouget at the Belonging Matters workshop.
gathered at the Docker Street library to listen to children’s and youth services o icer Tanya Hopper read the book chosen for this year’s nationwide storytime, ‘The Truck Cat’ written by Deborah Frenkel, illustrated by Danny Snell and published by Hardie Grant. Each year, the Australian Library and Information Association selects a di erent Australian picture book for National Simultaneous Storytime, which promotes the value of reading and literacy and helps highlight the role libraries play in nurturing a lifelong love of reading.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
BELONGING Matters is hosting a workshop in Wangaratta at Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Tuesday, 29 May from 9:15am to 4:30pm to explore individualised and innovative ways people with intellectual disability and autism can be supported to create a home of their own while getting the support they need to thrive.
Join in Sorry Day workshop on banks of Ovens River Monday
WANGARATTA will host a special National Sorry Day workshop in partnership with local Indigenous Traditional Owners next week.
The free cultural inclusion workshop will be held at Sydney Beach on Monday, 26 May at 10.30am.
The event will be led by Anita Morgan (nee Cooper) and Kevin Cooper, children of Elder Uncle Wally, and will feature a smoking ceremony, traditional storytelling, and damper making.
The workshop aims to deepen community understanding of Aboriginal history and the signi cance of Sorry Day.
Anita and Kevin will
share stories of the Stolen Generations, providing crucial narratives for truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation.
These personal accounts will o er insight into the impact of history on the local community, honouring the resilience of those forcibly removed from their families.
Through sharing these stories, Anita and Kevin hope to educate and foster empathy, ensuring the lasting e ects of past government policies are understood and never repeated.
By listening and acknowledging these stories, the community
can demonstrate respect, promote mutual understanding, and contribute to a shared journey of healing.
The impact of Sorry Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to reconciliation.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor, Irene Grant, encourages everyone to attend.
“All are welcome to take part in this workshop led by Elder Uncle Wally’s children Anita and Kevin who are proudly carrying his teachings of reconciliation into the future,” she said.
“It is a good opportunity to enhance the understanding of our history.”
Accused drug, gun trafficker is not expected to seek bail
A WANGARATTA man accused of being involved in a local alleged crime ring will not seek to be bailed, a court has heard.
The 32-year-old was called to appear at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week for unrelated matters.
Following his arrest in Wangaratta, the defendant faced numerous charges including commercial tra cking of ecstasy, tra cking
Due to his recent apprehension in custody on 7 May he was unable to appear, but was represented by defence counsel Geo Clancy who said his client would most likely not seek release before his 7 August committal mention.
cocaine and possessing a tra cable quantity of rearms.
Police detectives supported by specialist strike teams executed multiple search warrants to arrest ve people and seize four guns from alleged tra ckers in Wangaratta and Cobram on the same day as the defefedant’s arrest.
A 36-year-old Wangaratta man, 37-year-old Cobram man, 33-yearold Wangaratta woman and a 23-year-old Cobram woman were also arrested and charged for various tra cking related o ending the same day.
The ongoing investigation conducted since 2023 has seen police
seize $1 million worth of drugs and 18 rearms from North East streets and 30 arrests made.
The defendant’s matters were adjourned to his committal mention date at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 7 August, when the 36-year-old and 37-year-old men were also expected to appear.
CULTURE FOCUSED: Sydney Beach will be an ideal backdrop for a National Sorry Day event in Wangaratta on Monday.
NOTE:
Give from the heart to support our hospital
NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta’s (NHW) fundraising appeal is a call to the community for support.
It is asking the community to stand together and support those who support us.
The appeal aims to increase vital hospital services, neonatal equipment and patient care to meet the needs of our growing community.
NHW is seeking to raise $70,000 and has nearly reached $13,000 and while this is a generous effort we still have a way to go to reach that goal.
The community has already seen local businesses like Garry Nash & Co contribute to the campaign.
We all have a close affinity with our local hospital, whether through yourself, a family member or a friend, the staff at Northeast Health Wangaratta have touched the lives of each of us.
As a community, we are encouraged to rally behind those who care of us and our loved ones in our most trying and vulnerable times.
We all know what it is like to be in a hospital bed or a waiting room, and those selfless community members who work or volunteer in healthcare know better than most, none of us can go through life without needing support from the healthcare system.
Now the healthcare system needs our support.
Community members and businesses are asked to dig deep and give from the heart.
Every donation, no matter how large or small, will bring us one step closer to meeting the goal and providing the vital support NHW needs to care for our community.
To make a donation, visit: nhw.org.au/ appeal.
FACEBOOK users this week commented on planned burns that took place last Thursday at Warby-Ovens National Park.
• Na Um: Probably not the best time to do it if the CFA are going on strike.
• Paul Hearn: About time l can’t remember the last time it had a contolled fire it’s dry up there and a fuel on the ground been laying there for years l hope their well prepared
• Le On: Light it up
• Ashley Clough: What could go wrong ! Lol
• Linda Simpson: If the conditions are dangerously dry, planned burns should not happen!
Facebook users this week commented on local firies’ and farmers protesting the fire services levy at Melbourne Parliament on Tuesday.
• Linda Simpson: This disgraceful tax will
Property tax will hurt the most vulnerable
THE new proposed property tax is only the beginning (Wangaratta Chronicle, 16 May).
The Victorian Government has created a land tax on any property that is owned but not occupied by the owner - rented to people who as we are being told are in dire straits.
Our family got a real shock with an account of $970, which is only the bottom of the charges.
No wonder there is a shortage of properties to rent or build.
Anyone with sense would not bother, just take any money you have and put it under your mattress.
Older people like my husband and I have worked all our lives, paid our taxes but now are hit by these taxes.
Mum and dad investors are being hit by these money hungry politicians who take their big pensions and forget about anyone but themselves.
They do not seem to realise that these taxes will see the increase in rents, which is very sad.
The Victorian Government should hang its head in shame but that is not likely to happen.
• Leslie Matthews: Linda Simpson There’s always a consequence when you do nothing.
Life after sport, as an umpire
I HAD a small part to play in the AWJFL Junior Football Carnival last Sunday at Lavington Sports Ground.
Congratulations to the organisers.
It is always a positive experience to be involved in junior sport – the enthusiasm shown by participants is obvious.
A comment on one young player – he wore No 20 for the U13 Wangaratta team.
There was a good breeze into his backline as the third quarter went on, so the task was there.
I think he took about five contested marks, went back, found a team-mate to pass to, and then sought out his direct opponent, and pretty-much did it all again.
No fuss with this CHB.
I think his team lost in the end, but this young player is the sort of competitor you would want in every team.
Maybe he will grow up and be a lynchpin in his local club....perhaps he has higher ambitions – good luck to him!
And all the other players.
One other thing I noticed was that umpires were ‘doubling-up’ from the day before. Fair enough.
We do it because we enjoy it and if we can umpire, we will.
The young lady I goal-umpired with in the first game on Sunday jogged off rather quickly.....I then realised she was changing into her central umpires’ gear and picking up her whistle to do the next game.
She did a great job in both departments.
There is always a need for more umpires.
Many people could have a go, but it doesn’t enter their heads.
Current players can transition between playing and umpiring.....players heading towards retirement can take umpiring on....recently-retired players with that high “footy IQ” are ideal candidates..... players who are thinking about giving up the game because of recurring injuries.
The list is endless – but the candidates are needed!
If you want to add to the Border Umpires Group numbers, look us up on the internet and get in touch!
That young No 20 (and every player) deserves the best officials we can supply. Paul Delahunty, Corowa
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CELEBRATION: Family travelled from interstate to celebrate Phyllis Deering’s 80th birthday at the Pinsent Hotel last weekend. Pictured are (back) Greg and Susan Wheeler, Peter Dobson, Kerry Dobson, Karen and Craig Terrey, (front) Shirley Dobson and Phyllis Deering.
Facebook users this week commented on the impounding of two vehicles after police caught them racing on Tone Road on Sunday.
• Robert Rosicka: Racing your car is crushed - period and your license is forfeit for 4 years - period , after 4 years your license can be had after all the usuals plus a fee of 25% of your annual earnings or parents combined annual earnings but you stay on probation for 10 years . Any infringement for speeding , hooning etc automatically
cancels your license for 8 years and fees triple , mandatory volunteer work at a morgue for 365 days over that 8 years and any reoffending is a permanent banning of the right to drive .
• Stephen Queen: Robert Rosicka where does it say this
• Hayley Neatee: Robert Rosicka considering if you are unlicensed for 5 years you have to resit the learners & drive test..
• Rez Leslie: Robert Rosicka and their just going to drive unlicensed anyway
Big Freeze FightMND Beanies and socks are here!
Drop into see the team to get yours today!
Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.
NOTE:
• Heather Petersen: Well stated Robert Rosicka totally agree with ya here
• Annon B: Need to start defecting loud and low cars, they love planting the foot to hear the sound of their cars... It used to be a thing once- noise, to low etc
• Kristian Olenczuk: Annon B not all loud and low cars are at fault
• Anthony Driver: I agree it should be crushed it might teach them a lesson
• Eighties Rock: Crush them
Facebook users this week commented on a collision in Parfitt Road which saw a woman hospitalised.
• Nan Chanchio: If the male didn’t fail to give way there wouldn’t have been an accident.
Careless driving
• Kylie Dowell: Its a Very dangerous intersection as there is no turning lane if you’re going into the servo from the main rd. The best way to cross from Clements St is turn left and do a u-turn at supercheap...
X USERS this week commented on the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund, Daniel Andrews and contactless transport in Victoria.
Christo @esscee13
Labor the party of tax, tax and more tax, it’s not just the emergency services levy that will increase 67.79% increase on rates for Wangaratta. Hope all you state Labor voters are really proud of yourselves. How many families are going to become homeless because of you??
Wangaratta RoversFNC @wangrovers
Well done to all players selected in the @omfnl U/18 team. All the best!
Angry EXile @AngryExile
I asked about this when getting a new Myki card recently. They’ve been trialling contactless on local buses in Wangaratta so I wasn’t sure if it was worth hanging on till it rolls out to the trams. I was told yeah nah mate, probably next year. *sighs*
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
North East Water contractors are carrying out complex works in Wangaratta at the intersection of Tone Road and Sisely Avenue. The works will improve water network reliability and capacity.
A watermain is being replaced below the North East Rail Line and along Sisely Avenue to Bruck Court. The watermain along Tone Road across Sisely Avenue is also being replaced.
Site activities include trenching, horizontal directional drilling and pipe-jacking.
Construction has been tailored to minimise disruption, but traf c diversions will be in place between May and July when access between Sisely Avenue and Tone Road will be closed. Later, traf c controls will also be in place as works progress to Sisely Avenue. The project is scheduled for completion in September.
For project updates visit newater.com.au/sisely
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say. 15,289
North East Water Public Notice
Well done Holly!
Wangaratta
THE DISCOVER YOUR COUNTRY SIDE BIT
Head for the hills and discover Victoria’s regional events. Try your hands (and feet) at various things you’ve never done before. You could find yourself cider quaffing, tulip sniffing, grape stomping, maybe even fun running.
Changing Places facility a big boost at Apex Park
THE Rural City of Wangaratta, with support from the Victorian government, will install a Changing Places facility at Apex Park.
EnviroDome Pty Ltd, a local supplier, has been awarded the contract, with completion anticipated by August 2025.
Changing Places facilities are designed to accommodate individuals with high support needs, allowing them to fully participate in
community life without the limitations posed by inadequate toilet facilities.
These facilities feature essentials such as a heightadjustable adult-sized change table, a ceiling track hoist system, accessible shower, toilet with adequate circulation space and an automatic door.
“Apex Park serves as a community hub where people gather to enjoy outdoor activities and socialise,” Ru-
ral City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant said.
“The new Changing Places facility will ensure that individuals with disabilities, their families, and carers have access to safe and accessible amenities, enhancing their ability to enjoy all that Apex Park has to o er.”
The facility will be strategically located near existing amenities and community infrastructure, including
barbecue areas and play spaces, ensuring inclusivity for all park visitors.
Access to the Changing Places facility will require a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) - the same key type used for the Liberty Swing in Batchelor’s Green.
The MLAK gives people with disabilities and their carers access to a network of facilities, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
An accessible carpark and pathway will be installed to ensure direct travel from the parking area to the facility, aligning with accessibility standards and enhancing overall park accessibility.
Once completed, the Apex Park Changing Places facility will be listed on the Changing Places Australia website, further promoting accessibility awareness nationwide.
Celebrating storytelling with free library sessions
By SIMONE KERWIN
WANGARATTA Library has launched into its second year of involvement with the Sydney Writers’ Festival, hosting livestreams of the event’s Live & Local program.
“It’s a great opportunity to bring urban-based cultural o erings into regional areas via the technology that now exists,” she said.
“Wasn’t the smartest move” - Man blinds police with strobe light
A WANGARATTA man who blinded police patrolling the rural city with a strobe light and was pushed to the ground has avoided conviction.
The 34-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week admitting to hindering police and paramedic workers on duty in the early hours of 29 September last year.
The court heard around 1:30am police officers were patrolling the Wilson Road and Thomas Street area when they were suddenly flashed by a strobe light behind them.
After around 10 seconds of being temporarily blinded by the light, an officer in the passenger seat exited the car and approached the accused.
“That’s an unlawful assault,” the officer told the man, before he was pushed to the ground and handcuffed.
The free sessions kicked o on Thursday morning, when ‘The Book Thief’ author Markus Zusak spoke with journalist and author Richard Glover about his new nonction release, ‘Three Wild Dogs and the Truth’, and several locals were ready and waiting for the chat as Zusak was beamed into the library’s community room.
Live & Local continues at the Wangaratta Library on Friday, featuring authors including Helen Garner, Colm Toibin and the Moriarty sisters, Liane, Jaclyn and Nicola, and also on Saturday until 1pm.
Dr Peter Chu, vascular surgeon, is dedicated to providing effective and prompt treatment of circulatory and venous conditions to the Northeast region of Victoria. He has recently established The Melbourne Vascular Surgery & Vein Clinic, and can now, in conjunction with Melbourne Vascular Imaging, bring the latest minimally invasive or “walk-in walkout” treatment strategies for varicose veins, spider veins and other venous disorders to the Northeast region.
For more information about the Live and Local program available at Wangaratta Library, visit https:// events.humanitix.com/host/ wangaratta-library
“It means the world to me that you’re here for books and stories,” Zusak said.
SUPERFICIAL VENOUS REFLUX DISEASE IS PROGRESSIVE. SYMPTOMS CAN WORSEN OVER TIME IF LEFT UNTREATED.
“I feel like I’m looking out at the last bastion of civilisation.”
Patients who suffer from super cial venous disease may present symptoms of:
Among those attending the rst session on Wangaratta’s Live & Local program was Cassandra Pollock, who said she loved the idea of sessions from the writers’ festival being made available in the rural city.
• Varicose veins • Swollen limbs
• Skin changes and ulcers
• Leg heaviness and fatigue • Pain
FANTASTIC IDEA: Cassandra Pollock (right) was the first arrival for Thursday’s opening session of the Sydney Writers’ Festival Live & Local program at the Wangaratta Library, and was looking forward to listening to ‘The Book Thief’ author Markus Zusak speak about his new non-fiction release, ‘Three Wild Dogs and the Truth’, in conversation with Richard Glover.
PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
The defendant refused to cooperate with police and complained of chest pain.
He was taken to Wangaratta hospital, where the court heard he was abusive to both police and paramedics who attended to him.
Defence counsel Chirag Patel said his client went outside to collect firewood and didn’t realise his torch was on its strobe light setting, rather than its standard light.
Nor did he realise he was flashing his high-beamed light at a police car.
Mr Patel said his client had significant anxiety, depression and panic attack disorders, spending most of his days on computer games.
Magistrate Ian Watkins placed the man on a 12-month good behaviour bond without conviction.
“It wasn’t the smartest move you made that day,” he said.
“If you’re going to possess those type of things, you’ve got to be very careful.”
Magistrate Watkins also ordered seizure and destruction of the torch.
Wangaratta’s words of wisdom
By ANGELA KEENAN WHS WORK EXPERIENCE
AMONG the 30,169 people living in Wangaratta and surrounds, I interviewed six to nd out what advice they would give to their younger selves if they had the chance.
Today, almost everything on the news is about climate change, cost-of-living crisis, housing crisis, drought, ooding, bush res, seemingly one crisis a er anoither so it’s understandable to feel as though the world is in a never ending negative state of mind.
But, for 80-year-old Lois Knox, looking back is a fond time to remember.
She encourages young people to never stop learning and always accomplish their goals, no matter what age they might be.
Lois completed her masters at age 55 and discovered that learning is a crucial aspect to life.
“We should never try to dismiss learning and listening to others,” she said.
This piece of advice took us to Seth Garra o; only 19-years-old and two years out of high school, his mes-
sage to fellow young people was to get experience in many di erent elds and nd something exciting and enjoyable.
“It’s better to look for a job you enjoy rather than something that pays good,” he said. He encouraged his peers to study hard and work towards achieving their dreams.
Seth’s advice was similar to local resident Debbie Brown’s thoughts. Debbie wished her young-
er self had taken the time to stop and re ect on what she was able to achieve, and give herself credit for the amount of e ort she put in.
“Work hard, because you can make a di erence, everyone can make a di erence,” she said.
“You think when you’re younger ‘oh I can never do this, I can never do that,’ but believe in yourself.”
Debbie’s interview concluded with some advice
she had wanted to give other younger people, that was to remember the importance of properly looking a er yourself because that a ects how life your will play out.
A er interviewing elderly couple Stewart and Christine Owen, I learned more about the signi cance of childhood and youth.
Stewart’s advice was to stay young and don’t grow up too quickly; he said there are still many enjoyable things in
your childhood and there’s no need to speed up that process.
Christine agreed and added that throughout childhood you learn manners and respect, she wanted to emphasise how vital being respectful was, whatever stage of life you might be in.
“You’ve got to learn to look a er each other, respect yourself and have other people respect you,” she said.
Interviewing Lois, Seth,
Debbie, Stewart and Christine demonstrated some important aspects of life that we o en overlook.
Hearing from a young mother, Tegan Podbinski was a reminder to slow down and enjoy this phase of life.
Tegan said if she could go back and give her younger self some advice, it would be to slow down and not rush through life’s many stages.
“You don’t have to do everything so quickly, take your time, slow down, enjoy the ride,” she said.
Tegan said with age comes life experiences and knowledge, and she didn’t think she would’ve learned much without those experiences.
“Having the life experiences and realising that it actually is okay and it will be ne, you’ll end up where you need to be.
“See how it turns out.” These interviews showcased a lighter, more inspirational view on life, reminding people that life isn’t all about struggle.
Talking to a variety of people was an interesting way to discover the di erent perspectives each person sees life through.
Get your tickets for the annual Men’s Breakfast
By ANITA MCPHERSON
LOCAL men are invited to gather together to enjoy breakfast, good company and some tips on looking a er their health, when the Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group holds its annual Men’s Breakfast at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Friday, 13 June.
While the event is always popular, local organisers are hoping to reach out to a wider audience, as this year it will feature a panel discussion on the topic of melanoma, with guest Dr Simon Brettig from Ovens Medical Group.
Event coordinator Ray Champlin said they would like to see more young men coming along on the day to learn about skin cancer and its impact.
“Melanoma is one of those
things we need to make people more conscious of while they are young,” he said.
“While it’s better now because young kids are made aware of it at primary school (and protect themselves), they tend to forget about it once they grow older and move on, and then they go out and do what they like and can really put themselves at risk.”
Cancer Australia says melanoma of the skin was the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2019 and is estimated to be in the same position in 2023.
The number of new cases of melanoma of the skin diagnosed increased from 3538 in 1982, to a staggering 15,628 in 2019.
While in 2015 to 2019, men diagnosed with melanoma of the skin had a 92 per cent chance of surviving for ve
years, survival is strongly associated with “depth of invasion” (or how much it has developed) so early detection is critical.
The event will run from 7.30am to 9.30am and tickets are $35, available by calling Barb Thomas on 0419 889 804.
It will include a delicious breakfast provided by the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway, who have been long time supporters of the annual Men’s Breakfast.
GOOD COMPANY: Peter Lester from the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway and Ray Champlin from the Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group, invite men of all ages to join them for breakfast on Friday, 13 June from 7.30am.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
ENJOY THE RIDE: Young mum, Tegan Podubinski encouraged young people to slow down in life and enjoy their youth.
PHOTOS: Angela Keenan
words of wisdom in how other yopung people should choose a career.
Wangaratta to shine bright for Vesak Lantern & Light Festival
WANGARATTA will transform into a beacon of peace, re ection, and vibrant celebration as the Vesak Lantern & Light Festival returns this Saturday, 24 May at Apex Park from 3:30pm to 7:30pm.
The Vesak Wangaratta: Lights and Lantern Festival is a free, family-friendly community event open to everyone, celebrating Vesak - the most sacred day in the Buddhist calendar - which honours the birth, enlightenment, and passing of lord Buddha.
Organised by the North East Sri Lankans Association (NESLA), this inclusive festival o ers a rich blend of spiritual re ection, artistic expression and cultural celebration.
NESLA, a dynamic and growing community in Wangaratta, has been fostering multicultural understanding through public events and cultural programs since its founding in 2023.
A key highlight of the festival is the performance of Buddhist Vesak carols, sung by community members of all faiths and ages, a moving display of inclusiveness and unity through music that re ects the teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and peace.
Dozens of intricate and colourful Vesak lanterns have been handcra ed by NESLA volunteers, who have dedicated countless hours to preparing for the festival.
Another excitement of the festival will be the moving art projections curated by renowned artist Akhila Fernando by Artmore. These mesmerising projections will transform Apex Park into a living canvas, blending traditional themes with modern expression.
a free serving of Sri Lankanstyle vegetable soup and spicy caramelised onion (Seeni Sambol) sandwiches. Food will be served free of charge to all attendees from 6pm onwards, while supplies last.
To warm hearts and bellies, festivalgoers can enjoy
“It brings together people of all cultures to re ect, create, and celebrate what unites us,” he said.
Wangaratta residents are already catching glimpses of the coming celebration, with dec-
NESLA secretary Puna Gunaratne said this festival is a beautiful expression of light, unity and generosity.
orative Vesak lanterns lighting up homes around town - especially along Cramond Avenue, where early installations hint at the beauty that awaits on festival night.
All are welcome to this special evening of peace, unity, and illumination.
CULTURAL CELEBRATION: The North East Sri Lankans Association is welcoming the community to their Vesak Lantern & Light Festival this Saturday, 24 May at Apex Park.
PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
Speaking of success
By SIMONE KERWIN
WANGARATTA Toastmasters members were wellreceived at the District 73 conference held over the weekend - both in competition and when stepping into a new role.
Toastmasters, which conducts meetings in Wangaratta on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at The Centre in Chisholm Street, offers participants the chance to practice public speaking, take on club or leadership roles, and learn to speak confidently without advance preparation, developing their skills through constructive guidance in a supportive environment.
The local group is part of a network with more than 270,000 members worldwide.
Members travelled to Melbourne for the district conference between 16 and 18 May, which saw some close contests, with speakers from across Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania taking part.
Wangaratta member
LOCAL CONTINGENT: Wangaratta Toastmasters president Jo Howell, club treasurer Andrew McFarlane, district competition finalist Charles Halloran, and Toastmasters vice president education and Northern Division director Leah Walker, pictured at the District 73 conference held over the weekend.
Charles Halloran had progressed through club, area and division contests to reach district level competition at the conference, and fared well.
Of the four di erent contests involved, Charles competed in three of them - humorous speech, evaluations, and the international speech
contest; he nished with two places: second in the humorous contest on Friday night, and third in the international contest on Saturday morning.
“It was pretty exciting and very even,” he said.
“With the humorous contest, I had the audience involved with my speech,
calling back at me the three words to a successful relationship - ‘It’s my fault’ - with each example I gave; the room was full of energy and everyone was involved.
“There were also some amazing workshops on leadership and speech development.”
In addition to Charles’
REPRESENTING WANGARATTA: Charles Halloran with his district second-place trophy for his speech in the humorous contest.
involvement in the speech contests, Wangaratta’s Leah Walker was o cially appointed to the position of Toastmasters Northern Division director for the next 12 months.
“It’s a great opportunity for Leah and our club, and for the North East area,” Charles said.
“When Leah was sworn in for her role, everyone in the room stood to applaud.” • 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.
Access to life-saving medication to reverse opioid overdose
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE Victorian government is expanding access to the life-saving medication, naloxone.
Victoria’s Take-Home Naloxone Program will be expanded to all Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) sites ensuring more Victorians who are at risk of, or who may be likely to witness, an opioid overdose including carers, families or friends can access this medication.
Naloxone has been available through the NSP program at both Wangaratta and Wodonga Gateway Health sites since November 2023.
This service is con dential and available to any member of the community.
This service has the potential to have saved up to 265 lives, with 265 doses of naloxone supplied to members of the community in the previous 12 months, in Wangaratta alone.
Gateway Health alcohol and other drugs program manager, Caddie Russell, said it is important for the community to be aware about how to administer and have access to the life-saving medication, especially for those at risk or more likely to witness an opioid overdose.
“Each person that has accessed Gateway Health for naloxone, is provided education on how to administer naloxone, as it comes in many forms such as a nasal spray and in injectable form,” she said.
LIFE-SAVING ACCESS: Gateway Health’s alcohol and other drugs team leader Jane Anderson and alcohol and other drugs program manager Caddie Russell encourage anyone who is at risk of, or who may be likely to witness, an opioid overdose to access this medication. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
“It’s important people are aware of recognising signs of overdose and how to admin-
ister naloxone.
“Gateway Health provides education in person and
provides people with written information or YouTube addresses with naloxone information, tailored to the person.
“Naloxone is a preventative measure, aimed at reducing overdose, therefore can be accessed by family, friends and supporters.”
Since it began in December 2023, the program has provided more than 12,000 units of naloxone to Victorians – with the expansion increasing access in areas experiencing high drug harms.
According to the latest statistics, nearly 400 Victorians die from opioid overdoses each year.
Under the Take-Home Naloxone Program, naloxone is currently available at 50
Splash park to be mountains of fun
Friday, 22 May, 2015
By STEVE KELLY
THE ‘mountains and valleys’ themed splash park will be built by the end of the year because Wangaratta kids voted for it.
A survey conducted by the Rural City of Wangaratta asked children which of four themes - mountains and valleys, jazz, sport and Ned Kelly - they wanted.
More than half the 4742 children favoured the winning theme for the $650,000 Mitchell Avenue Splash Park.
Children walked past a bubble machine and smuggled in their own bubble liquid on their way to hearing the news of the winning entry.
The result was greeted with a loud “yah” by an assembly of Yarrunga Primary School kids who had an afternoon of fun in the lead up.
Victorian NSP providers, the medically supervised injecting room, over the counter at pharmacies or via prescription from a medical or nurse practitioner.
In addition to the TakeHome Naloxone Program, the Victorian government’s $95.1 million Statewide Action Plan to reduce drug harm is delivering pill testing, expanded access to pharmacotherapy and a trial of 20 naloxone vending machines to ensure life-saving medication is easy to access in an emergency.
More information on Victoria’s Take-Home Naloxone Program can be found at health.vic.gov.au/victoriastake-home-naloxone-program.
Mountains and valleys theme scored 2411 votes, jazz 977, sport 718
cent voter feedback, a figure Ms Carroll described as “absolutely amazing”.
and Ned Kelly 636, with an estimated 84 per cent of the Wangaratta child population under the age of 14 casting a vote.
Council director of community wellbeing, Jaime Carroll, said the excitement of the children when the winning theme was announced spoke in volume.
“How many people voted was a big demonstration about the amount of people who are excited about the splash park,” Ms Carroll said.
“We’re really excited to have a community facility that is going to be developed based on what people told us they want, which for us is a really
OVERWHELMING YES: A large majority of children at Yarrunga Primary School put up their hands when asked if they voted for the winning mountains and valleys splash park theme.
meaningful thing.
“The excitement of the children today is a demonstration of what they think about the splash park and what it’s going to look like.”
Council took a multifaceted approach to collecting votes by visiting schools in the city and encouraging people to vote online and at various venues. It is also astounded about the 84 per
The job to create the park will now go to tender with construction to start in July.
Design will be guided by a reference group composed of people from the local neighbourhood and experienced designers.
The design will also be put out for public exhibition for the community to give further feedback.
Once built, entry to the facility will be free for all users and will be open all day during the warmer months.
The facility could have a kiosk, there are already facilities at the Mitchell Avenue site and council will also look to redevelop the disused tennis courts near the splash park site.
Save Yarrunga Pool has however maintained its stance on the closure of Yarrunga pool and the development of the splash park.
PHOTO: Luke Plummer
Dedicated CFA volunteers awarded for their service
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
A SPECIAL awards ceremony was held at Peechelba CFA brigade on Sunday a ernoon with 16 members honoured for their years of service. Those to receive medals and acknowledgement were John Kelly [10 years], Lisa Cottle [15 years], Tom Marshall [15 years], Christine Peruzzo [25 years], Steven Peruzzo [25 years], Paul Holloway [30 years], Brad Lawrence [30 years, life member], Darren Nish [35 years], Vin Kelly [35 years - life member], Brian Vincent [35 years - life member], Michael Doran [40 years - life member], Malcolm Cohen [45 years, life member], Brian Lawrence [50 years, life member], Geo McRae [55 years - life member], Graeme Lavis [60 years [life member], Graeme Nish [60 years - life member].
Peechelba captain Brad Lawrence said there are 20 active members at the brigade. He welcomed dignitaries on the day, including District 22 Commander Rod Railton and brigade support o cer John Parnell, who presented the medals to the milestone members.
SERVICE TO COMMUNITY: Peechelba CFA brigade members who received medals for recognition of service were (from le ) John Kelly [10 years], Paul Holloway [30 years], Brian Vincent [35 years - life member], Christine Peruzzo [25 years], Michael Doran [40 years - life member], Tom Marshall [15 years], Graeme Lavis [60 years [life member], Graeme Nish [60 years - life member], Brad Lawrence [30 years, life member], Lisa Cottle [15 years], Brad Lawrence [30 years, life member], Geo McRae [55 years - life member], Steven Peruzzo [25 years], Malcolm Cohen [45 years, life member]. PHOTO: Courtesy of Craig Milne
The award consists of a circular medal with the CFA emblem contained within the rim and a scroll carrying the words service award [or life member].
The emblem is superimposed on the Fire Star, which is based on the eight-pointed Cross of St John.
Each point of the star separately represents the virtues of dexterity, explicitness, gallantry, loyalty, observation, perseverance, sympathy and tact.
These virtues were considered to represent the qualities of a re ghter, so the star was
chosen as the insignia of many re services including CFA.
The medal is suspended by a bar carrying the coat of arms of the state of Victoria attached to a ribbon of red
and white squares symbolising the CFA logo.
Creating a talking point on the day was the commissioning of an ultra-light re ghting vehicle that the brigade
READY TO ROLL: Peechelba captain Brad Lawrence with the new Ford Ranger ultra-light vehicle that is fully kitted out and can respond to emergencies faster with improved offroad access capabilities compared to a firefighting truck appliance.
PHOTO: Steve Kelly
received 12 months ago and has since been tted out with a full array of the latest equipment.
Mr Lawrence explained that they applied for a VESEP
Low vax rates concern peak health body
THE Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is stepping up calls for patients to get a u vaccination ahead of the peak in uenza months. It comes following experts warning of low vaccination rates across the nation.
Despite being eligible for free u vaccinations, only 32.5 per cent of patients aged over 65, and fewer than one in three children, have been vaccinated so far in 2025.
Already, there have been more than 71,000 lab-conrmed u cases reported to the National Noti able Dis-
eases Surveillance System (NNDSS).
RACGP president, Dr Michael Wright, said that now was the time to get vaccinated.
“The u must be taken seriously, and these low vaccination rates should be ringing alarm bells,” he said.
“Earlier this year, we called for action following more than 46,000 lab-con rmed u cases, a 50 per cent spike compared to the same period last year.
“We’re also seeing an alarming fall in vaccination rates nationwide compared
to previous years, as well as for other respiratory diseases including COVID-19 and whooping cough.
“I urge all Australians to keep in mind that the u can not only land you in hospital, but take your life, and it must be taken seriously.
“We’ve already seen a very early start to the u season, and we’re set to see a surge in u and other respiratory diseases in the coming winter months.
“So, now is the perfect time to get vaccinated. It’s a decision that could save your life.”
Dr Wright reiterated calls for patients to help keep their community safe and urged state and territory governments to follow the lead of Queensland and Western Australia and institute free u vaccination programs.
“The number one step people can take to help keep themselves, their family, and their community safe, is to get vaccinated,” he said.
“In uenza is a serious illness, and the vaccine save lives.
“Boosting u vaccination rates for all patients
aged over six months of age will make all the di erence and please remember that the jab is free of charge for higher risk patients under the National Immunisation Program.
“Unless we’re prepared, our health system will come under tremendous strain, including our hospitals potentially being pushed to the brink.”
grant in 2023 and although they missed out on the rst occasion, the wait was worth it because they were awarded the grant to purchase the vehicle in 2024.
“It takes about 12 months to build the vehicle, which cost $150,000, and it is one of the new Ford Ranger versions following on from its predecessor the Toyota Landcruiser.
“The idea behind the vehicle is that it has 450 litres of water and is ideal for quick response and it’s able to access hilly areas and tight tracks.
“It can get to areas that a truck can’t and it’s response time is a lot quicker than a truck.”
Equipment ranges from chainsaws, recovery gear, foam, water, rst aid kit, and de brillator.
Peechelba CFA brigade members were fully trained in the use of vehicle and its assets and are now completely across its functions and capabilities.
“The best part about the new ultra-light is the driver only requires a car licence so this presents an opportunity for members who don’t have a truck licence to drive it,” he said.
Those in attendance enjoyed a barbecue to celebrate the occasion and cap o the event.
Dr Wright reported that it was a huge in uenza season in the northern hemisphere over Christmas with some United Kingdom hospitals overwhelmed.
McMahan gives Jordan Duursma a flu shot at the Wangaratta Chronicle. The clinic travels right across the municipality to businesses, helping people stay protected against the influenza virus.
Adapting homes for liveability in changing, seasonal climate
By RUSSELL SULLY, ANN BRAIN and JOHN NAYLOR for ELECTRIFY WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA has a challenging climate of high summer temperatures with days between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius, and minimum winter temperatures down to -5C.
Heatwaves of over 35C to the high forties are beyond human comfort and pose a threat to health and wellbeing.
Heatwaves are increasingly causing loss of life, particularly for older and vulnerable people living in older, less thermally efficient houses.
Adapting our homes to manage this wide range of temperatures to maintain year-round liveability is important to our personal health, wellbeing, and cost of living.
House design and construction has changed in recent years to meet the demands of our climate.
Previously energy efficiency ratings were between one and three stars, but there’s now a minimum rating for new buildings or major renovations of seven stars.
Adapting our homes for yearround liveability in a warmer climate requires using passive design principles.
These include orientation to the suns path across the day, good insulation, draft proofing, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and appliances.
OPTIMISED COMFORT: Lower home energy costs by installing insulation blinds, which protect your house against summer and winter weather.
• Solar Pumps
• IQ Pool Chemicals
• Pool Pumps & Accessories
TIGHT SQUEEZE: Avoid gaps when installing insulation for the most effective results.
Visit https://wlsi.org.au/electrifywangaratta/ for a guide on how to customise the path to electrifying your home.
The key is keeping summer sun and winter cold out using shading, blinds, draft proofing, and ventilation.
Snug-fitting honeycomb blinds internally - at a size of 25 or 50mm - can provide a massive insulation benefit in summer and winter on windows.
This leads to a major reduction in energy costs both for heating in winter and cooling in summer.
• Poly Pipe & Full Range of Fittings
• Suction & Delivery Hose Fittings
• Steel & Fibre Wound Pressure Tanks
• Garden & Irrigation Equipment & Sprays
Flow-through ventilation from windows and doors can create a good cooling effect when overnight temperature or early morning temperatures drop.
Window and door configurations to allow increased ventilation during relevant periods (e.g. overnight and early morning) provides a low-cost cooling effect.
Neighbourhood trees reduce the heat storage in roads and paving by 4C while creating cool green corridors of “natural air-conditioning” beneficial to humans and wildlife.
NATURAL HEATING AND COOLING: Housing Heat loss and gain guide insulation priorities for thermal comfort.
How to modify temperatures:
Use passive cooling principles in design; light coloured roofing and walls, ventilation, shade windows and walls from morning, afternoon and midday sun.
External shading by sun blinds can make a real difference in summer while internal blinds can be effective in keeping sun out in summer and the warmth in during winter.
Shade trees and ground cover vegetation protect the windows and walls of a house from the heat island effect in urban areas.
Build in a “cool retreat” that can provide comfort during heatwaves.
Good insulation, draughtproof sealing to prevent heat leakage, with reverse cycle airconditioning or a ceiling fan.
Insulating homes and sealing against air leakage to minimise heat loss and heat gain improves overall energy efficiency.
The insulation priorities are roof and ceiling, windows and walls followed by the floor.
Snug-fitting insulation is critical to avoiding leakage.
Acclimatise your body to slightly warmer temperatures. If using air-conditioning adjust your thermostat to between 25C and 27C in summer, and 18 to 20C in winter.
Each degree cooler in summer will increase your energy consumption by 10 per cent.
Recommendation:
Adopt these energy efficient changes to make your home more comfortable, cheaper to run, increase its resale value, and reduce your carbon footprint. These are low-cost high impact measures.
IT is always a delight when you happen to look up into the canopy of a tree and see two or more Tawny Frogmouths sitting silently asleep or observing you.
They are found across every part of Australia and are one of our most widely distributed and common night birds.
With their large, forward-facing yellow eyes, mottled grey plumage and nocturnal habits, they can be mistaken for an owl but they are not actually related to owls at all.
Rather, they belong to a separate family of night birds known as the frogmouths because of their extraordinarily wide beak and huge gape which resembles a frog.
By day, Tawny Frogmouths roost on horizontal branches and in forks of trees and rely on their remarkably camouflaged feathers to remain concealed.
With their eyes closed to narrow slits, they are wary and watchful of everything that takes place around them, and if approached closely they quickly adopt a characteristic ‘stick posture’ whereby they smooth their bark-patterned plumage and stretch out their long bodies, pointing their beak to the sky.
By remaining motionless, they blend into their surrounds incredibly well and can easily be passedoff as a broken branch.
For this reason, Tawny Frog-
mouths are rarely seen in the daytime.
But if you are lucky, you may see several birds, including youngsters and adults, huddled together.
They become active at night and commence foraging, feeding primarily on large insects,
such as moths and beetles, and occasionally small vertebrates such as frogs and small reptiles.
They often forage along roadsides and are usually seen on fenceposts and low branches illuminated in car headlights.
Sadly, some birds are struck as they fly low across or on to roads to capture prey.
Early naturalists wrongly attributed the distinctive ‘mopoke’ call of the Boobook Owl – a completely unrelated species, to the Tawny Frogmouth.
It wasn’t until many years later that it was discovered that Tawny Frogmouths give their own unique call - a deep, low-pitched oomoom-oom, repeated monotonously at intervals during the night.
They are most often heard call-
ing in spring during the breeding season but they may call yearround.
Although the nights are long and cold at present, winter is often the best time to look for frogmouths and other nocturnal creatures because they tend to remain still and tolerate a reasonably close approach, allowing for some detailed observation.
The Ovens River in Wangaratta is a favoured local haunt for frogmouths, but the species can be found at a variety of other locations, especially along rivers and creek lines around wetlands where there are good foraging opportunities.
A pair will often have favourite perches within their territory and if they are not bothered, once found, can be observed regularly.
HIDDEN IN THE TREES: A PAIR OF BABY TAWNY FROGMOUTHS SHOWING THEIR REMARKABLE CAMOUFLAGE.
PHOTO: CHRIS TZAROS (BIRDS BUSH AND BEYOND)
Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025
THE winner of the 2025 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award will be announced at the Wangaratta Art Gallery during the opening and award ceremony being held on Saturday, 24 May at 4pm.
This year’s guest judge, Murray Art Museum Albury CEO Blair French, will announce the recipient of the $40,000 acquisitive award - the richest textile prize in Australia - which has been made possible thanks to the support of project partners, the Kyamba Foundation.
The recipient of the $2500 Highly Commended Ruth Amery Award will also be announced at the award ceremony.
The 10 finalists, selected from over 430 entries Australia-wide, epitomise the very best of current textile practice, and they include Helvi Apted, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Hannah Cooper, Charlotte Haywood, Cara Johnson, Charles Levi, Emily Simek, Jacqueline Stojanovic, Sera Waters and Jemima Wyman.
Across the Arts retrospective exhibition
THE 2025 Across the Arts retrospective exhibition is being held in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library this month.
The exhibition features 31 artworks by 18 Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) members in a wide variety of styles and mediums including ceramics, printmaking, painting, photography and textiles.
The community is invited to an Across the Arts festival retrospective celebration being held on Sunday, 25 May from 2pm to 4pm.
Wangaratta Festival of Dance continues
THE Wangaratta Festival of Dance competition continues at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre this weekend.
Soloists and troupes have been performing their routines in front of a respected industry adjudicator who provides feedback on dancer’s choreography, skill, presentation, musicality and costuming.
Entry to the auditorium to watch the performances is free to family, friends and the community, with junior competition on Saturday, 24 May from 9am to 9pm and on Sunday, 25 May from 9am to 6.45pm.
Joint exhibition explores inspiration inside and out
A COMBINED exhibition featuring paintings by local artists Janet Campbell and Helen Hill has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in Wangaratta.
Called Inside Outside, the artists chose the title because of the ideas it encompasses and its use as an architectural description, perhaps engendering a notion of comfort and familiarity found in the interior of a home, and the form, materials and garden outside.
Helen Hill says for her, the title is about landscape and the natural environment.
“I wanted to express my experience of walking in the Grampians and also near Winton, in Outback
Queensland,” she said.
“The rock formations in these areas are full of energy and interest for me.
“I love the sense of grandiose form which light and colour help to emphasise - one feels at times overwhelmed by their structure and beauty.
“Within these rocky enclaves there are smaller spaces with rocks and vegetation, almost like rooms in a house.
“I was inspired to also include a detailed, more abstract painting of leaf mulch and small plants which I discovered in one of these smaller worlds.”
Janet Campbell says her work re ects the every day - what she sees around her home will become the subjects of her paintings, with vases, jugs, fruit
and textiles coming together to make a still life.
“I nd comfort in the simplicity and beauty of these objects and nd a great satisfaction in curating them into a painting,” she said.
“My garden, a quiet place of repose, is also an inspiration for me.”
Inside Outside by Janet Campbell and Helen Hill is open at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway o Murphy Street on Thursday, Friday and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm, until 2 June.
The artists will host an opening celebration on Sunday, 25 May from 12 noon to 2pm with all welcome to come along.
Historic race meeting at Winton Raceway
THE 48th Historic Winton, Australia’s longest running, historic race meeting and one of the largest sporting events in rural Victoria, will be held at Winton Raceway on 24 and 25 May.
Over 400 historic racing vehicles from the 1920s to the 1980s are expected to battle it out for line honours with plenty more to see, including a competition paddock open to spectators where they can view the much-loved, historic vehicles of competitors.
There are also anniversary displays by clubs and individuals, an automotive trader market and food vendors on site, with more information and tickets at historicwinton.org.
Vesak Lantern and Light Festival on Saturday
THE Vesak Wangaratta Lantern and Light Festival returns this Saturday, 24 May to Apex Park from 3.30pm to 7.30pm. The festival is a free, family-friendly community event open to everyone, celebrating Vesak - the most sacred day in the Buddhist calendar.
Organised by the North East Sri Lankans Association (NESLA), the inclusive festival offers a rich blend of spiritual reflection, artistic expression and cultural celebration, with a free serving of Sri Lankan-style food available from 6pm, while supplies last.
Wangaratta community market on Sunday
THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available. Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.
Wangaratta Historical Society open weekends
TAKE a trip down memory lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street.
The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm and entry is free, with exhibitions updated regularly. For more information email wangarattahistorialsociety@gmail.com or drop in and have a chat.
Breen
DIFFERING PERSPECTIVES: Local artists Janet Campbell and Helen Hill will celebrate the opening of their joint exhibition on Sunday, 25 May from 12 noon at the Art Gallery on Ovens. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Latest book recommendations
With PAULINE MONCRIEFF, The Book Circle
THE April gathering of The Book Circle was held on Friday, 11 April and a variety of books were shared. FICTION
Blood Sacri ce - Douglas Jackson
January 1943.
Warsaw is the city of the dead.
In the ghetto, the last 50,000 Jews await their fate, but unlike those who preceded them to the death camps, they are prepared to ght to the end.
Jan Kalisz, a Polish German who speaks both languages, is a Kripo investigator and resistance double agent who has promised to supply them with weapons.
But can he ful l his promise?
The murder of a German o cer appears to provide the opportunity.
The hunt for the murderer draws Kalisz into the chaos of the ghetto.
SS death squads are not the only enemy that the Jews fear.
A mysterious gure known as the Golem stalks and abducts orphaned children who are never seen again.
Can Kalisz track him down as well?
Kalisz is an experienced investigator who detests working for the Germans, but it provides food for him and his family.
Kalisz uses all his skills and experience to solve the case, always on the alert for SS or Gestapo pressure, whilst maintaining his secret connection with the resistance.
Confronting and graphic.
Recommended.
A Little Life - Hanya Yanagihara
This is the second novel by American writer Hanya Yanagihara, written in 2015.
It was shortlisted for the 2015 Man Booker prize and the National Book awards.
Mainly taking place in New York City, the novel follows the lives of four friends as they attend and graduate college and then as they establish their working careers.
It is a book about love and friendship, the limits of friendship, the depths of pain and shame that a human can endure and the unending legacy of abuse.
It covers male relationships, trauma and recovery, substance abuse, and mental health issues.
The main character is Jude - a
CONNECT OVER A
CUPPA: Loueen Twyford and Kylie Edmondstone are encouraging locals to join in the Wangaratta Library’s Chatty Café events on Wednesdays at 10:30am.
Chatty Café o ers an opportunity for people to connect over morning tea in a friendly, relaxed environment.
Whether you live alone, work from home, are a young person, a new parent, a grandparent, or new to the area, Chatty Café is open to everyone.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
genius with a disability and a mysterious past.
Jude becomes a brilliant lawyer.
Willem is a kind soul who is an aspiring actor and Malcolm is the son of a wealthy family ,who becomes an architect.
Lastly there is JB, an artist and child of Haitian parents, totally spoiled by his female relatives.
Initially we meet the boys as a group and live their college days, but ultimately as they become adults we focus on Jude more and centre on each of their relationships with him.
It’s a lengthy novel and not an easy read, but one I am pleased to have persisted with.
It is certainly one I will never forget..
Dead Tide - Fiona McIntosh
Fourth in the Jack Hawksworth series.
Jack Hawksworth, a newly promoted Detective Superintendent at Scotland
Jack is currently teaching on a temporary basis at a London University.
One of his students, Amelia, becomes extremely ill and dies suddenly.
Jack, being naturally suspicious, applies his innate detective skills to uncover a web of illegal tra cking of human eggs.
Jack’s superior at Scotland Yard reluctantly gives him uno cial permission to investigate and uncover the source of the tra cking.
His travels take him to Adelaide where he engages the help of the CIB.
Working undercover as a writer, he interviews a gynaecologist on the pretence of writing a book on egg implantation (nidation).
Lithuania and Dubai become places of interest.
Two more suspicious deaths occur, later identi ed as murder, which send him on the trail to Yorke Peninsula where all the main characters in the book appear in a showdown with a surprising outcome.
The tall, handsome and personable Jack once again has to untangle himself from the inevitable love interest he acquired along the way.
The Ledge - Christian White Christian White is the master of satisfying nishes and twists.
As an Australian author, his books are based on various areas in Australia, mainly Victoria.
In his 2019 novel, Wild Place, the setting is suburban Victoria, out on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula.
This current book, The Ledge, is set in regional Victoria.
Just as in Wild Place, even when the crime is solved, the whole story is turned upside down at the very end with the reader being led to make incorrect assumptions.
I actually went back through the book to see if I could work out how White had bamboozled me.
The Ledge is written from two timelines, with chapters alternating between the present and a few days in February 1999.
The tale is about four teenage boys in 1999 (Justin, Aaron, Chen and Leeson) and a secret they have held into adulthood that has a profound e ect on all their lives.
If you like crime and mystery with a twist in an Australian setting, this book is a must read.
The Ministry of Time - Kariane
Bradley
A civil servant is o ered a lucrative job in a mysterious new government agency, which turns out to be involved in time-travel experiments.
People who would have almost certainly died in their own time, from war zones, natural disasters
when Japanese soldiers marched her and her fellow nurses into the shallow waters of a remote beach to be executed.
Miraculously, Vivian would be the sole survivor - and she committed the rest of her life to an exceptional career caring for others.
The lieutenant-colonel would also be the rst woman to be honoured with a statue at the Australian War Memorial; a country girl who became one of the highest-ranking women in the Australian army.
When Japanese forces attacked Singapore, Vivian and 64 other nurses were ordered to evacuate, but soon their ship was bombed by enemy aircra . Somehow Vivian lived, and for the next three years she was a prisoner of war in brutal Japanese camps, where she helped others survive the horror.
or epidemics, are ‘rescued’ and brought to the 21st century.
They all need time to adjust to the modern world, but why are they here?
And what happens when one of the ministry employees falls headover-heels in love with one of the survivors?
A clever example of modern speculative ction. Recommended.
Now You See Us - Balli Kaur Jaswal
In this gripping novel set in Singapore, we are brought face to face with the lives of servants from the Philippines, who are overworked by harsh employers and o en victimised and vulnerable to false accusations.
Here we see a nursemaid falsely accused of murdering her employer, the penalty for which is execution.
Her friends know she is innocent, but they dare not speak up, because each of them has a past life that they don’t want exposed.
If they lose their jobs, their families back home will have no means of support.
Determined to do something, one of them has a bold plan, but it will take great courage.
Can she succeed?
NON-FICTION
Sister Viv - Grantlee Kieza Bangka Island, 1942. Vivian Bulwinkel was just 26
When peace was restored, Vivian was a giant of Australian nursing and a key driver of Operation Babyli .
For her extraordinary bravery and service, Vivian was awarded numerous honours.
But she never forgot her fallen colleagues, living her life in tribute to them.
This is one of the most inspirational and saddest books I have read, and is available on audio from Libby.
Open: An Autobiography - André Agassi
Groomed for Wimbledon from the cradle, André Agassi withstood harsh, traumatic training regimes as a young boy.
He hated it all, and he hated tennis; but he feared his father more, so he persisted.
At the age of 13, he won a place at the Tennis Academy, but found being away from home di cult and began rebelling.
Over the following decades, the mindset of this brilliant tennis player was all over the place as he won and lost many tournaments.
In 1999, André realised that his tennis career was nite, causing him to switch gears and show a mature consistency on the tennis court.
This is an honest, personal and moving account of a great tennis player, and, at times, a tormented soul.
Highly recommended.
Callum ready to race at Historic Winton
BY GRACE FREDSBERG gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA’S Callum Ross is revved up to race his 1971 Malmark El n Formula Vee at Historic Winton this weekend.
He has been an avid lover of racecar driving since he was four years old, and his continued fascination with cars has only grown through his career in the automotive industry.
“I’ve rallied and raced cars for a great part of my life,” Callum said.
“They go very fast around corners; they don’t have a great deal of horsepower – it’s all about keeping the corner speed up.”
Callum said Formula Vees, which have been around since the 1960s, have been hugely successful and are still going strong to this day.
Though he considers himself still “relatively new” to the Historic Winton racing event, he has been racing at Winton Motor Raceway “for a long, long time”.
Callum said Historic Winton provides the opportunity for people to peruse some classic cars and collector’s items, as well as socialise and soak up the “relaxed” atmosphere.
“You can get into the pit and wander around, talk to all the drivers,” he said.
“They’re hard to stop talking once they get talking about their cars.
“It’s a super well-organised event, the people that run it do a great job.”
What makes Historic Winton so special though is the nostalgia felt by those who attend upon seeing these older, retro models of race cars they can identify with.
“I think people see cars that may-
be their parents or their grandparents had, or they’ve seen some old footage of racecars,” Callum said. “All the old Minis and Cortinas and cars like that get people very excited.”
He also recommended “time trial runs”, a non-racing activity which helps improve your skills.
“It’s easy to get into; if you get addicted to it, it can become a reasonably expensive hobby,” he laughed.
“But there’s cheap forms of rac-
Callum encouraged anyone interested in cars or race cars to sign up for a car club; from there, registering for family-friendly, fun events.
ing… you can spend as much or as little money as you want.”
For the full range of Historic Winton events on May 24 and 25 at Winton Motor Raceway visit https:// historicwinton.org/
For bookings, visit https:// www.ticketebo.com.au/historicwinton/48th-historic-winton-2025.
Faase Colin Buchanan Tim Kelly
Jade Steg
IN THE ACTION: Keep an eye out for Callum Ross in no. 41 at Historic Winton on May 24 and 25. PHOTO: Mark Walsh
BEHIND THE WHEEL: CALLUM ROSS WITH HIS 1971 MALMARK ELFIN FORMULA VEE.
PHOTO: KURT HICKLING
Feel good in your skin on your wedding day
MULWALA Medical Centre + Skin Clinic is a newly opened, GP owned and operated medical practice that also offers aesthetic skin and body treatments.
Located in the beautiful lakeside town of Mulwala – a short 45 minute drive from Wangaratta –they are proud to care for the local community and surrounds.
They treat all skin types, to look and feel good.
Using medical grade skincare solutions, their team has access to advanced technology and innovative equipment to deliver optimal results.
Their skin discovery consult is the perfect place to begin your healthy and beautiful skin journey to prepare for your special day.
Your skin undergoes a comprehensive assessment, considering factors such as skin type, texture, tone, and any specific problem areas.
By understanding each pa-
tient’s skin on a deeper level, they can provide targeted recommendations for homecare and treatment to help achieve maximum skin health and address any concerns effectively.
Their skilled laser technicians can treat a wide range of skin concerns and conditions from head to toe.
Using advanced laser technology to treat unwanted hair, tone correction for pigmentation issues, redness and vessel reduction, as well as laser acne treatment to ensure clear, blemish-free skin all year round.
Treatment courses vary depending on patient concerns and are completely tailored to suit each individual’s skin condition.
Medical Grade LED, concentrated mesotherapy infusions and algae infused masques may be added to speed up and boost results from corrective treatments such as peels, Dermapen 4 Skin
Needling and laser skin therapies.
These can be used in combination alongside a tailored homecare routine for an enhanced and efficient way to achieve your best skin yet.
Their popular body contouring solutions allow us to rid away unwanted fat and cellulite as well as tighten loose skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Body care is just as important to them as facial care.
Feel and look your best in the skin you’re in.
Pre-booking any of the series packages takes all the pressure off you and allows the skin clinic to create a treatment timeline to care for your skin so that you can concentrate on other important tasks on your list.
They look forward to caring for you and your skin in their beautiful space.
Give your skin and health the love and care it deserves.
PERFECT SKIN: Mulwala Skin Clinic is the perfect place to start your health and skin journey.
Celebrate your love, your way
AS your celebrant, Lesley Sanderson will work with you to create a ceremony that celebrates the magic of your story and truly reflects your love.
To craft the perfect ceremony, you and your celebrant need to connect, you need to be on the same page, because there’s never been another wedding like yours and there never will be again.
So, if you’re looking for a celebrant who will laugh with you, cry with you, celebrate your love with you, and do it your way, do not hesitate to set up a no obligation meeting where you can get together and chat about having your day, your way, with Lesley.
Over the years Lesley has garnered many positive reviews.
Raman and Garry
“Lesley was our celebrant on our wedding day and she was absolutely amazing.
“she has been so good and supportive throughout from the beginning till our day and she was so welcoming on the day as well and she allowed us to take photos at her backyard.
“Thanks for such a great service.”
Daniel and Andrew
“It is impossible to put into words how amazing Lesley
was as our celebrant.
“My husband and I were married in Wandiligong, Lesley ensured that we felt at ease and comfortable throughout the entire planning of our wedding.
“Going above and beyond Lesley ensured all of our family and friends felt valued and included.
“Many of our guests could not get over how amazing she was, we couldn’t have dreamt of a better celebrant.”
Maddi and Brad
“Lesley was outstanding right from the start.
“From enquiring about our
reflects
wedding service, through to the pre-wedding meet up, all communication and especially on our wedding day.
“We highly recommend Lesley as she listened to our needs and executed them perfectly.
“She is kind, understanding, accommodating and funny and was the perfect celebrant for our wedding day.
“She made the whole process so relaxed and easy.
“We love her.”
To work with Lesley or learn more about her services visit https://www. sandersonscelebrancy.com.au/.
Personalised ceremonies for every occasion
FOR North East celebrant, Roxanne Bodsworth who has been marrying couples since 2008, every occasion is different.
Roxanne said every couple has their story to tell about what has brought them to this moment in their relationship.
“A personalised ceremony gives people more control of their ceremony,” she said.
“Sometimes there are different cultures coming together and that is always interesting for how this works and making sure everybody feels included in some way.
“With same sex marriages now, it means a great deal to the couple to have their union recognised in this way.”
Dr Bodsworth said wineries, family properties, bushwalks and breath-taking views have provided some wonderful settings.
“I had one very memorable one in the Beechworth courthouse with the bridal party behind the judge’s table, the family in the jury box and the rest of the guests in the gallery so that was a lot of fun,” she said.
“I had a full medieval-style wedding with staghounds, barmaids and jesters.
“There was a very special one in Yackandandah where the ceremony took place on four different spots on the property.
“It was a real journey that encompassed their life together up until that time.
“Or it can be what I call a ‘bare bones’ ceremony that is more focused on the celebrations afterwards.”
For Roxanne, the most important thing is the couple and the commitment they are making to each other, and it is a privilege to be able to help them celebrate that.
YOUR STORY: Celebrate your love in a way that
your story with celebrant Lesley Sanderson.
PERSONAL TOUCH: Roxanne Bodsworth is here to support you on your marriage journey, creating a ceremony suited to you.
A serene and romantic retreat
AS winter sets in, The Sebel Yarrawonga becomes a serene and romantic retreatperfect for couples dreaming of a cosy, elegant wedding.
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Mulwala, the resort offers an exquisite setting where crisp air, golden light and warm indoor spaces come together to create a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, The Sebel’s versatile indoor and outdoor venues adapt effortlessly to every season.
With sweeping lake views, glowing fireplaces and the option to host both ceremony and reception in one stunning location, your day unfolds with ease, surrounded by natural beauty.
Beyond the ceremony, The Sebel Yarrawonga offers tailored wedding packages that extend the celebration in meaningful ways.
Indulge in a massage or enjoy professional hair and makeup at the
luxurious SOL Wellness Centre.
Host a candlelit rehearsal dinner, or relax with a custom golf experience at the award-winning Black Bull Golf Course.
From winter menus crafted with seasonal flair to fireside moments with loved ones, every detail is considered.
After the main event, the celebration doesn’t have to end.
Guests can unwind with a glass of wine by the fire, book a spa treatment, or enjoy a leisurely morning surrounded by the calm of the lake.
It’s the perfect post-wedding retreat for newlyweds and guests alike.
To help bring your dream day to life, The Sebel Yarrawonga’s new conference and events planning executive, Alicia Leeburn, is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Alicia at alicia.leeburn@accor. com or call the hotel on 03 5745 9100.
Discover more about creating your winter wedding at thesebelyarrawonga. com.au/weddings/.
TAILORED TO YOU: Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, The Sebel’s versatile indoor and outdoor venues adapt effortlessly to every season.
Celebrate your wedding at The Sebel Yarrawonga, with breathtaking views of Lake Mulwala. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our tailored spaces and expert planning will make your day unforgettable.
Extend the magic with indulgent experiences - cosy indoor settings, spa treatments, and hair and makeup at SOL Wellness Centre. Enjoy fireside dinners with loved ones, a wintery cocktail by the bar, or a relaxed round of golf at the award-winning Black Bull Golf Course. We offer everything you need for a seamless and perfect celebration, all year round.
Celebrate your love at the historic Vine Hotel: A unique winter wedding venue
AS winter approaches, couples everywhere are busy planning their dream weddings.
If you’re searching for a venue that blends charm, character, and a touch of history, look no further than the historic Vine Hotel.
Located in North Wangaratta, the historic venue offers a romantic setting that will make your special day unforgettable.
Imagine exchanging vows in a beautifully landscaped garden, where original wooden beams and rustic décor create an intimate atmosphere.
The enchanting backdrop of The Vine’s storied past adds a unique element to your wedding, making it not just an event but a celebration steeped in history.
The outdoor covered decking and open courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and winter hues, is perfect for alfresco ceremonies and cocktail receptions.
At the historic Vine Hotel, the staff understand that every detail matters.
Their dedicated wedding team will work closely with you to customise your experience, from exquisite catering options featuring locally sourced ingredients to personalised recommendations that reflects your style.
Whether you envision an elegant sit-down dinner or a relaxed cocktail style service, The Vine’s culinary team is committed to creating a memorable dining experience for you and your guests.
As the day turns to night,
let the festivities continue with their extensive drink selection, featuring local craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails.
Dance the night away in a venue that feels like a second home, surrounded by loved ones in an atmosphere filled with joy and celebration.
This winter, let the historic Vine be the backdrop to your love story.
Book a tour today and discover why The Vine Hotel is the perfect choice for your wedding celebration.
The Kevi: The perfect destination of good times
THE team at the Kevington Hotel aka ‘The Kevi’, do things a little differently, a three day and two night wedding is very different from
They aim to create a wedding you will not only remember forever, but you will have a great time as well.
The best way to get a feel for this is to visit the team at The Kevi, check the place out and perhaps even stay the night and experience the vibe and the character of this awesome
The Kevi is a venue for laid back, chilled out people focusing on a great memorable time rather than a fancy, pompous occasion that is easily forgotten by family, friends and even yourselves.
Creating a generational memory is what the team is about.
The Kevington Hotel is becoming one of the best wedding venues in the Victorian High Country , it is unparalleled with what is on offer here and an easy travelling distance from both regional Victoria and Melbourne.
If you’re keen to get married this year, look no further than The Kevi.
Whatever the reason to rush it through, The Kevi have a shotgun option if required. Regardless, jump into a last minute 2025 shindig at The Kevi and have the time of your life over a truly great weekend to remember. For more information, visit www. thekevingtonhotel.com.au or get in touch at thekevingtonhotel@gmail.com or 0437367740.
Team will send you their information pack to check out and then fire away any questions you have to the team.
Brand new outdoor kitchen, perfect for catering Weddings.
Relaxed or formal
1800’s era heritage listed building
Fully heated decking for Winter-Oz mist for Summer Cocktail Van
2 inside bars
Open fires
Up to 250 guests
Huge selection of the best wines in the region
10+ beers on tap including local craft beers.
Locally
drinks & cordials.
HISTORIC VENUE: The Vine Hotel is a venue that blends charm and character with history.
SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT: The team at The Kevi are about creating a unique generational memory for you and your family.
CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY!
Turn your unwanted jewellery and gold and precious items into CASH
Your Questions Answered
HOW DO I DO THIS?
Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!
WHY SELL?
Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!
We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items.
“Your Jewellery maybe worth a lot more than what you think!”
Dederang Pub sale done deal
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE contract for the sale of the Dederang Hotel has recently been nalised, with a number of new owners, including a pair of Australian cinematic royalty.
Shane Jacobson and fellow screenwriter and director, Dean Murphy, along with a number of silent partners have recently purchased the hotel, with plans to continue running the iconic regional pub.
Mr Murphy grew up in the Kiewa Valley and has eaten at the pub with his family since he was young.
“Dean told Shane how amazing the Dederang Hotel is and
Bright Hospital Op Shop $90k health boost
THE Bright Hospital Op Shop has made an incredible impact on local healthcare with donations exceeding $90,000 during 2024–2025, funding critical equipment for Alpine Health’s facilities across Bright and also at Mt Beauty and Myrtleford.
Aussie
how important it is to the community and suggested they should buy it,” Mr Jacobson’s manager, Nicole Bardy said.
“Shane took his word for it and they did.
“Having now spent time there, Shane too has fallen in love with the pub and the amazing people who frequent it.
“The pub is being refurbished but will continue to deliver its cold beer and favourite meals during this period.”
The Dederang Hotel rst went to market in late 2023, for sale at $1.365M.
The hotel’s new owners intend to run the business as
among
usual to settle in at rst and will be assisted by the current owner and operator across the rst few months.
“There were no unexpected delays or challenges in executing this sale,” managing director, McDonald Hospitality Brokers (MHB), Dan McDonald said.
“We had a volume of consistent enquiry across the hotel marketing campaign; as connecting the right buyer with right hotel is a process, not an event and can take some time in certain circumstances particularly in rural settings such as Dederang.
“The current operator and
owners,
vendor has owned and operated the hotel for 35 years.
“They are very pleased with the outcome of the sale and the changing of the baton to the new owners.
“From our perspective here at MHB we are very pleased with the outcome and delivering a sale for our valued clients.
“We have recently also settled on the sale of the Yackandandah Hotel also are currently marketing hotels for sale in Wangaratta, Myrtleford and Moyhu and Whorouly so its pleasing for us to continue to deliver results across our client base across North East Victoria.”
This year’s donations have gone towards the purchase of a new ECG machine for Bright Hospital Urgent Care, fall mats in Hawthorn Village to improve safety in aged care, and electronic medication trolleys to enhance care delivery and medication management at Bright, Mt Beauty and Myrtleford hospitals.
Alpine Health CEO, Rhys Gloury said these investments support Alpine Health’s aged care facilities and bolster health services in the region, making a real di erence to patient safety and care quality.
“We’re incredibly proud of the role the op shops play in supporting local health,” Mr Gloury said.
“These donations are made possible by the generosity of our community, both those who donate items and those who volunteer their time.”
The Bright Hospital Op Shop, along with the other independent Hospital Op Shops in Myrtleford and Mt Beauty, turn pre-loved treasures into life-changing support for Alpine Health and other vital emergency services.
First snowfalls at Hotham, Falls Creek alpine resorts
FALLS Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resorts awoke to a white dusting of their first snowfalls on Sunday morning, ahead of the official 2025 snow season opening on June 7.
Hotham marketing manager Alex Pankiw said the temperature dropped to almost minus five degrees, with the snowmaking team making the most of every snowmaking window, thanks to a multi-year snowmaking pipeline project started this summer.
“It’s really exciting and we can’t wait for the snow season to kick into gear,” he said.
At Falls Creek, overnight temperatures of minus four degrees brought snow flurries and saw the snow guns fire up for most of the day, including the new automated TechnoAlpin snow guns on Drovers Dream.
“There’s no better sight to wake up to than a fresh dusting across our slopes and it’s just the beginning,” said Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek Ski Lifts’ marketing manager.
“The countdown to opening weekend on 7 June is officially on.”
Ablett Pavilion’s $1.4M redevelopment opened
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MYRTLEFORD celebrated the unveiling of the newly renovated Ablett Pavilion last Thursday night, complete with the sounds and sights of local football training underway on the oval below.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, and McNamara Reserve committee of management president Bob McNamara o ciated the ribbon cutting to open the $1.4 million federally funded renovation to enhance function areas, improve facilities and relocate the bar to overlook the
oval, among a number of other upgrades.
Mayor Nicholas said council was thrilled that the new-look pavilion was ready for the community to enjoy.
“These improvements not only enhance the experience for users but also create a more welcoming and functional space for events and gatherings,” she said.
“It’s a real asset for the region, and I commend the community members who brought the idea to life and worked closely with council to turn a dream into reality.”
Myrtleford Football and Net-
ball Club co-president, Luke Chapman, said the new upgrades will be fantastic for the entire community, not just club families.
Club treasurer, Marnie Broz, said the club couldn’t be happier with the end result and looks forward to the whole community and local groups being able to now book the space to host functions.
As he delivered his speech, Mr McNamara paid tribute to the facility’s rich history by honouring the original builders from the Ablett Building project from the early 1970s.
SALE SEES STARS PROCURE PUB: Notable actors, Shane Jacobson and Dean Murphy have recently acquired Dederang’s iconic hotel.
FIRST FALLS: Mt Hotham residents awoke on Sunday morning to their first snowfalls.
PHOTO: Mt Hotham ski li s
GREAT VIEWS: McNamara Reserve committee
president Bob McNamara and Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas admire the expanded balcony and first floor extension.
Footprints that redefine prehistory
BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au
A GROUND-BREAKING fossil discovery in the Mans eld Shire is set to shake-up the timeline of evolution, with the earliest known ‘reptile’ footprints found on the banks of the Broken River.
Reported last week in Nature, the world’s leading multidisciplinary science journal publishing peerreviewed research, the nd is of international signi cance.
It places the evolution of four limbed-creatures (or tetrapods as they are scienti cally known) from aquatic creatures to those living fully on land as happening faster than thought, predating previously discovered footprints and body fossils by tens of millions of years.
The discovery also indicates that such animals originated in the ancient southern continent of Gondwana, of which Australia was a central part.
The ve- ngered fossilised tracks are thought to belong to an amniote – an early ancestor of the reptiles.
Found on a slab of rock recovered from the Snowy Plains Formation, the tracks date back 356 million years and it is telltale claw marks that denote the tracks as those of most likely an amniote.
“Once we identi ed this, we realised this is the oldest evidence in the world of reptile-like animals walking around on land – and it pushes their evolution back by 35to-40 million years older than the previous records in the Northern Hemisphere,” said Professor John Long, Strategic Professor in Palaeontology at Flinders University.
“The implications of this discovery for the early evolution of tetrapods are profound.”
The footprints are similar in shape to a modern water monitor and using this animal’s gait as a reference, researchers have estimated this ancient amniote may have been about 80 centimetres long.
Professor Long speculates the animal resembled a small, stumpy goanna-like creature, however emphasises the exact proportions of the animals are unknown.
An important step in the evolution of land-dwelling animals was the emergence of tetrapods out of the sea and onto the land.
The only group of tetrapods that evolved to reproduce on land were the amniotes, a group that today includes reptiles, birds and mammals.
The earliest known body fossil and trackways were previously dated to around 320 million years ago, suggesting that amniotes
IN THE ROCKS: A Devonian fossil fish - the Bothriolepsis - discovered in the shire.
SIGNIFICANT FIND: The Mansfield trackway was found along the Broken River in 2021.
THE tracks and a selection of other local fossils will be on display at Mansfield Adult Education Centre (MACE) from Thursday May 15, before they move to form part of a more ambitious exhibit when the Mansfield Heritage Museum opens.
Mansfield Shire mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the groundbreaking discovery is of international significance.
“Council is pleased to have partnered with stakeholders, including John Eason, for many years to help steward the vision of bringing Mansfield’s prehistoric significance to light,” said Cr Rabie.
“We’re excited that the community will get a teaser of the full exhibitions that will eventually be on display at the future heritage museum as part of
may have taken up to 90 million years to evolve a er tetrapods rst ventured out of the water.
The local discovery has challenged this view, recalibrating the whole timeline of tetrapod evolution.
“My involvement with this amazing fossil nd goes back some 45 years, when I did my PhD thesis on fossils of the Mans eld district,” said Prof. Long.
A er decades studying ancient sh fossils of the area, he already had a clear idea of the age of rock deposits in the shire.
“This new fossilised trackway that we examined came from the early Carboniferous period, and it became signi cant for us to accurately identify its age,” Prof Long said.
“We did this by comparing the di erent sh faunas that appear in these rocks with the same species and similar forms that occur in well-dated rocks from around the world, and that gave us a time constraint of about 10 million years.”
Prof Long said the Mans eld area has produced many famous fossils, beginning with spectacular fossil shes found 120 years ago, and ancient sharks.
“But the holy grail that we were
◀ HISTORY OF EVOLUTION: Craig Eury and John Eason with the slab displaying the trackways.
our rich paleontological, first nations and European President of the Mansfield Historical Society Graeme Stoney AM said the society would be allocating pride of place to the fantastic examples of the fossils in the new Mansfield Heritage Museum when it opens in 2027.
“We expect the display to attract wide attention and attract visitors from all over Australia - and indeed all over the world - whom no doubt will visit Mansfield to see firsthand how mankind originated,” he said.
John Eason is encouraging any community members who think they may have some interesting fossils around their home or garden to send him a photo.
His email is jjhe8@bigpond.com.
always looking for was evidence of land animals, or tetrapods, like early amphibians,” he said.
Many had searched for such trackways locally but never found them.
Then the mudstone slab arrived at the Flinders University laboratory to be studied.
“Two locals – Craig Eury and John Eason who co-authored the paper in Nature – found this slab covered in trackways and at rst thought they were early amphibian trackways,” Prof Long said.
That was until, under further investigation, a hooked claw was recognised coming o the digits like a reptile, or more correctly an amniote.
“It is amazing how crystal clear the trackways are on the rock,” said Prof. Long.
Prof Long admits it immediately excited both the original nders and later researchers at Flinders University.
“We sensed we were onto something big – even though we had no idea just how big it was,” he said.
John Eason said the rocks around Mans eld are already renowned for the many species of fossil sh they contain.
“The fossil-bearing rocks of the South Blue Range and the Broken River are 400 to 350 million years old,” Mr Eason said.
“These periods in Earth’s history – the late Devonian and early Carboniferous to give them their geological names – were when the rst forests began to cover the land.
“Purplish-brown mudstone from the Broken River is everywhere in Mans eld.
“This rock was formed during the rst part of the Carboniferous period on the east coast of the supercontinent of Pangaea (of which Gondwana was a part), in a strip of low-lying forested land crossed by sluggish meandering rivers.
“Today’s rock surfaces are covered with innumerable ‘trace fossils’ – ripples, worm burrows, foraging marks, dried mud cracks and plant debris.
“There is a good chance you will nd some if you have a rock wall or paving-stones in your garden,” Mr Eason added.
“This was the time when lobenned sh in shallow estuarine environments and rivers evolved into the rst four-legged animals (tetrapods).
“Somewhere among these
abundant local trace fossils you would have thought you would nd their footprints, but none had been found.
“Up until recently,” he added. It was 2021, and for some years a group of interested locals had been scouring the countryside looking for sh fossils.
“It was Craig who rst spotted it – seven clear, ve-digit footprints made by what we initially thought was a clawless primitive amphibian.”
The slab was originally sent to Prof Long at Flinders University to scan and study, who then sent it from Adelaide to Sweden to Professor Per Ahlberg a vertebrate evolution expert at Uppsala University.
Further scans would reveal a second set of tracks.
“Three faint traces of an animal with claws,” said Mr Eason.
With two sets of tracks identi ed, researchers believe they belonged to the same animal.
Additional high-resolution scans would turn up even more faint footprints.
These also showed claws.
“Amphibians don’t have claws,” said Mr Eason.
“Only amniotes – reptiles, mammals and birds in whom the fetus is surrounded by an amniotic sac – have claws.”
Mr Eason said until recently the earliest known reptile fossil is Hylonomus, whose fossil bones were discovered in 318-millionyear-old rocks in Nova Scotia.
In an adjacent Canadian province, fossilised footprints ascribed to Hylonomus were also found in rock estimated to be 315 million years old.
The footprints found in Mans eld Shire are similar to these Canadian footprints, suggesting reptiles evolved millions of years earlier than previously thought.
“We have found the footprints,” said Mr Eason of the signi cant discovery.
“There have got to be fossil remains out there somewhere.”
It’s now just a matter of nding them.
FOSSIL FINDS: PROFESSOR JOHN LONG WITH SHEILA HUTCHINSON WITH FOSSILS SHE HAS DONATED TO THE MANSFIELD MUSEUM.
Mazda numbers game in play for SUV buyers
By DEREK OGDEN, MARQUE MOTORING
MAZDA’s march up-market with its reworked range of CX large sports utility vehicles, including the new CX-80, only leads to a plethora of choices for potential buyers.
But does it all add up?
Mathematically, maybe - but matching models with nomenclature could lead to confusion.
In fact, Mazda admits there will be some subtle ‘nudging’ between the CX-60, CX-70, CX-90 and now by the CX-80 but is confident customers will have the nous to deal with the situation.
Aping the three powertrains o ered by its smaller CX-60 twin – an inline-six petrol, inline-six diesel, or four-cylinder plug-in hybrid – the CX-80 comes down under in four variants: Pure, Touring, GT and Azami, with a three-row seating configuration.
The CX-80 is smaller allround than the two-row CX-70 but is longer than the CX-60 and shorter than the CX-90, riding on the same wheelbase as the CX-70 and CX-90.
Inside are tan Nappa leather upholstery with quilting, twotone steering wheel, suede dashboard panel finish, second-row captain’s chairs with fixed centre console (making six-seat capacity) and ventilated second-row seats.
All vehicles are covered by Mazda’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, while the battery is eight years 160,000 kilometres.
STYLING
Mazda calls its design language ‘graceful toughness’, which appears to have lost something in translation.
Let’s say there’s little complaint with the styling.
Eight paint colours are highlighted by the new Melting Copper Metallic.
The CX-80 is a well-proportioned vehicle, with its long bonnet and extended bodywork and glass.
From behind, the L-shaped taillights are a Mazda signature.
INTERIOR
The seven-seat cabin is spacious and luxurious.
Highlights include black Nappa leather seat trim, heated front and second row, and ventilated at the front.
The steering wheel is also heated.
A panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin to a flood of light.
Access into the third row is relatively easy, thanks to large doors, tumble and slide functions for the second-row seats, and a decent aperture, but Mazda has not flipped the layout of the rear-seat bench, so the larger, heavier portion remains on the kerb (passenger) side.
Boot space is rated at 258 litres behind the third row –enough for a couple of carry-on suitcases.
Folding the third row down with a pair of fabric straps
AT A GLANCE
CX-80 G40E PURE AWD PETROL: $54,950
CX-80 G40E TOURING AWD PETROL: $61,950
CX-80 D50E TOURING AWD DIESEL: $63,950
CX-80 P50E TOURING AWD PLUG-IN HYBRID: $75,000
CX-80 G40E GT AWD PETROL: $68,950
CX-80 D50E GT AWD DIESEL: $70,950
CX-80 P50E GT AWD PLUG-IN HYBRID: $82,000
CX-80 G40E AZAMI AWD PETROL: $74,150
CX-80 D50E AZAMI AWD DIESEL: $76,150
CX-80 P50E AZAMI AWD PLUG-IN HYBRID: $87,200
NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your Mazda dealer for drive-away prices.
reveals 566 litres, more than enough for big suitcases. With the second row folded there’s 971 litres freed.
Seating back there, with the second row slid back, is best reserved for small children.
A power tailgate is standard on all but the Pure, with the GT and Azami adding kick sensors.
INFOTAINMENT
Twin 12.3-inch full colour screens combine to display, in connection with MyMazda app, Mazda Connected Services o ering vehicle status and health info, stolen vehi-
cle assistance, remote lock, flashing light function, vehicle locater, curfew notification geofencing and emergency SOS services.
I quite appreciate the Mazda hallmark of the rotary info controller on the centre console.
However, in my neck of the woods, Mazdas seem to be replaced by some interstate broadcast when the local radio station drops out.
Also, performing some of the touchscreen systems, I inadvertently activated the hazard lights with the heel of my hand on the button on the dash below the screen.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OPTION: Mazda’s CX-80 is just one of nine models on o er and bears similarity to the CX-60 but with more space, making it a great option for a family.
TRANSMISSIONS
The CX-80 PHEV is powered by a 241kW 2.5-litre petrol engine, combined with a 129kW electric motor, mated with a 17.8kWh lithium-ion
Mazda says the electriconly range can go as far as
The maker claims a combined urban/highway petrol consumption of 2.7 litres per 100 kilometres with carbon dioxide emissions of 64g per kilometre.
The test vehicle recorded 5.1 litres per 100km and 18.5kWh per 100km.
SAFETY
Safety technology includes Smart Brake Support when turning across tra c (pedestrian/cyclist detection), reversing and rear crossing.
Also, rear cross tra c alert when moving into intersections and driver monitoring, which detects driver drowsiness, or inattention.
This is backed up by 10 airbags.
DRIVING
Mazda’s eight-speed automatic transmission and rearbiased all-wheel drive system are fitted across the CX-80 range.
The former was jerky at times, while a double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension picked up more than a few minor road blemishes.
The all-wheel drive behaved up to expectations, producing neutral cornering as with a rear-wheel drive set-up.
Mazda Intelligent Drive Select o ers a choice of four drive modes – Sport, Normal, O -Road – plus a full EV system.
Braked towing is rated at 2500kg.
When the battery runs out of charge, at around 28 per cent, the internal combustion engine takes over.
The plug-in system will charge up the battery to 80 per cent from a household three-pin 10A 240V socket at 2.4kWh in eight and a half hours, according to the maker.
Via an AC Type 2 fast charger port, at a maximum of 7.2kWh, takes two and a half hours.
SUMMARY
The Mazda CX-80 has lots to o er anybody seeking a family-friendly SUV. It really is a numbers game sorting through the nine models on o er.
Steep-ish pricing may turn some potential buyers towards the plug-in hybrid.
RATINGS
Looks: 7 Performance: 6 Safety: 8
Thirst: 7 Practicality: 6
Comfort: 7
Tech:
Classic ranch style home on large allotment
NUMBER 2 Billabong Drive is a beautifully presented three-bedroom family home with an exceptional north facing rural outlook.
The home consists of three generous sized bedrooms with the main having an ensuite plus walk in robe with built-in robes to all other bedrooms.
The kitchen area is open plan with
adjoining dining area plus sitting room/study with a separate lounge and formal dining.
Heating and cooling are well catered for with split system heating and cooling, wood heating plus electric cooking and gas hot water service.
Externally the gardens are beautifully maintained with a wide variety of trees plus car storage is well catered for with a double garage with direct internal access.
The property is in a great location with easy access into town plus bus stops close by and within walking distance to a popular café. Please contact us now to arrange your private inspection.
|
| 2 Billabong Drive, Wangaratta
Architecturally built home with passive solar features
SITUATED in the undulating foothills of Mt Belleview in the Myrrhee valley, this architecturally built home is worth inspecting.
Set on 58 acres, this custom designed home seamlessly blends sustainable living with contemporary luxury.
The home showcases high-end finishes, including stylish polished concrete floors, rammed earth walls, expansive north-facing windows, and raised ceilings.
Designed for modern living, the indoor connects effortlessly to the outdoors with an open plan kitchen, dining, and living area that captures breathtaking views of rolling hills and the in-ground pool.
4 2 2
The kitchen boasts a breakfast bar and walk-in pantry along with 900mm stainless steel cooking appliances.
Agent | Harcourts Wangaratta
The oversized master suite features a walk-in robe and ensuite, bedrooms two and three feature full-height built-in robes along with a 4th bedroom/guest room without robes.
The main bathroom has a large walk-in shower and separate toilet for added convenience.
All this plus a genuine dedicated study with custom built cabinetry.
Additional living area provides separate entertaining for family or guests with cosy combustion heater for added comfort.
Outdoors, enjoy the view, relax by the large inground swimming pool or entertain in the expansive pool house.
The eco-conscious design includes rammed earth construction for natural insulation and passive solar orientation for year-round efficiency.
Additional sustainable features of the
Phone | (03) 5722 9444
Price | $1,480,000
Land | 58 acres (approx)
Location | 1475 Benalla-Whitfield Road, Myrrhee
property include an off-grid solar power system and backup generator with a lithium batteries.
Additional features include a spacious 7m x 7m (approx) machinery shed and steel framed 8.5m x 25m (approx) workshop shedding.
All this conveniently located between Benalla (43km) Wangaratta (48km) and Mansfield (66km) this remarkable getaway is only a short drive to smaller townships such as Moyhu and Whitfield in the popular King Valley tourism region.
Rural City Connection
Council Meeting
Council Meeting
This month’s Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday 27 May at 3:00 pm at Council Chambers in the Government Centre 62-68 Ovens Street. You have the option to attend in person or watch the meeting live on YouTube. The agenda can be accessed on our website. Please submit your questions via email to council@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au by 10:00 am on the meeting day or ask them in person during the session. Please contact Customer Service if you have accessibility requirements to attend in person. For further details, visit our website www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/ Your-Council/Council-meetings
National Sorry Day Workshop
Join us on Monday 26 May for National Sorry Day
• Free cultural inclusion workshop
• Hosted by Anita Morgan (nee Cooper) and Kevin Cooper
• Sydney Beach @ 10.30 -11.30am
Traditional Owners Anita Morgan (nee Cooper) and Kevin Cooper will deliver a cultural inclusion workshop featuring a smoking ceremony, storytelling, and damper making. This workshop aims to deepen community understanding of Aboriginal history and the profound significance of Sorry Day.
Youth Climate & Resilience Program
Do you care about the environment? Do you want to inspire change and grow as a leader? Join a free one-day leadership program for young local changemakers. Wednesday 28 May, 9.15am-4.30pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre. For more information contact environment@wangaratta.vic.gov.au
Community Vision
A Community Vision captures the community’s aspirations for the next 20 years and helps guide all Council decision-making and planning. Provide feedback on our draft before 13 June via Connect. connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/reviewing-ourcommunity-vision, or at one of our upcoming drop-in sessions:
• Monday, 26 May 9 - 10 am | Wangaratta Government Centre, Foyer 1 • Thursday, 29 May 4 – 6 pm | Wangaratta Library, Foyer
Community Engagement Report
You can access the Community Engagement report for the Council Plan and Community Vision, here: https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/council-plan
All Outdoor Expo
Your outdoor adventure starts here! Come along to a day of outdoor activities and local trade displays. Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls o ering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear, and bicycles to fishing, hunting equipment, and more! Sunday 1 June, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/Whats-On/AllOutdoor-Expo-2025
Synergy Youth Hub
Synergy Youth Hub is open for 12–17-year-olds on Monday afternoons from 3.30-5.30pm. Hang out or join the activities at 29 Flanagan St, Wangaratta.
Community Grants Open
The annual Community Grants Program is open. The Program seeks to empower organisations dedicated to making a positive impact within our community. Applications are due by Thursday 5 June. For more information: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/CommunityGrants
Kindergarten Registrations Open
Children’s Services Centre are inviting expressions of interest for 3 & 4-year-old kindergarten programs for 2026. Our Centre o ers an integrated kindergarten program within a long day care setting, providing a full day of care and education. Register your interest before 30 May. https://forms.o ce.com/r/GftYgPb0Qf.
If you require further information or assistance, please contact the Centre on 5721 7879 or via email at LDC@ wangaratta.vic.gov.au.
Firewood Depots Open
Council’s firewood depots at Glenrowan and Eldorado are now open to residents of the Rural City of Wangaratta. Those planning to gather firewood need to purchase a permit from the Government Centre or the Glenrowan Post O ce. Permits are not available to purchase from the Eldorado store this year. For more information search Firewood Collection on our website. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/EnvironmentSustainability/Firewood-Collection
Expressions of Interest –O ce Space Available
Premium o ce spaces available on the ground floor of the Wangaratta Government Centre.
• Prime location with government services
• Two areas available approx. 475m2 and 527m2. Smaller spaces can be accommodated.
• Flexible o ce space options
• O -street parking
Contact Garry Nash & Co. to discuss. www.garrynash.com.au
Positions Vacant
IN PERSON BY PHONE
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
PUBLIC NOTICES
Notice of intention to apply for A Licence to Construct Works (bore) for a Licensable Purpose/Take and Use Licence.
GMW Reference No: BGW0160-25
We Corey Uebergang and Jonelle Hill-Uegergang Of 1323 Lilliput Noring Road NORONG VIC 3678 Refer to Vic Roads Map 34 G3
Intend to make application to Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) for a licence to Construct Works (Bore), and if successful:
• This is our notice for an application of a new Licence to Take and Use Groundwater for a maximum volume of 700.0ML/Year
The application is for one (1) Bore to be constructed to a proposed depth of 130.0 metres. The water will be used for the purpose of irrigation to be constructed and used on land describes as:
Crown
Volume Folio Allotment section parish 2814 780 1 O Norong
Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the transfer of this Licence including any intended groundwater use, is invited to make a formal submission setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification.
To make a submission please read the information available to download from Make a submission about a licence applicationGoulburn Murray Water (g-mwater.com.au) refer to the Groundwater section or contact GMW to arrange a copy to be posted to you. Submissions must be lodged using the GMW template available by either mail or email to, licensingadmin@ gmwater.com.au or PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3616.
HOUSEHOLD goods, outside table and chairs antiques, crafts, magazines, golf clubs and Yogioh cards, Saturday, May 24, 8am-12noon, 28 Redgum Way, Wangaratta.
OLDWARES , collectables, records, home wares, rustic, glassware and furniture. Items must be vintage, pre 1980. Call Rebecca 0400 327 696, or David 0418 665 420. No electrical, bedding or jewelery.
2012 Holden Captiva, petrol, 184,000km, very good condition, (1DQ 3MD), $5,600. Phone Phil 0418 994 147.
CLEAN CUT: Here is an opportunity to expand your lawn mowing business or if you’re just starting out, Clean Cut has a number of accounts with an excellent wellestablished clientele who have been with Clean Cut for a long time. Please allow us to discuss this opportunity with you by contacting Chris at 0427 523 293.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
30 free standing exchurch chairs, good condition, 1-$180 5-$625 ono. Phone John 0418 678 345.
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
DRY SPLIT
FIREWOOD Quality boxwood and gum available now, $170 per mete, dry, split, ready to burn, fast delivery available. Call G & JTree Services on 0474107631
TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.
FRANKS DOG TRAINING, behavioral solutions, quali ed, experienced, a ordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
MARK ’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any rubbish and furniture removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
HOLDEN VZ SS Thunder Ute, 2006 6 litre auto, Leather trim, RWC, 6 months reg (1GO-1GA), 222,000kms, $24,950, ONO, Phone Peter on 0412 527 477.
NISSAN X-Trail STIL 2011, leather interior, good condition, towball, all wheel drive, 2ton capacity, reg (YOF136), $4200 rm. Ph 0403 431 390.
2017 Ford Transit CamperVan,54,000km, (1KG6TW),$56,000, for more information ring Phil 0418 994 147.
2022 15ft Signature Iridium S Offroad Hybrid van, great condition, $49,900, more details on Caravancampersales. com.au. Ph 0418 609 877.
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions:
Executive Assistant to the Secondary Executive Team (Full time/Ongoing)
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position descriptions and application closing dates.
College Wangaratta is a Child Safe
SITE MANAGER
Ultra Project Services is seeking a highly experienced and professional Site Manager, to join our expanding team. This is a full-time role, where you will be working on commercial & residential projects, based in Wangaratta Victoria and surrounds. As a Site Manager, you will be required to supervise the construction process through to final handover, making sure that the projects are completed on time, and to a high standard. Experience is essential!
Please contact Taylor on 0457 132 883, or email office@ultraprojectservices.com.au with your CV.
There’s never been a dull moment in these last 30 years, but you’ve given us lasting memories, plenty of laughs and looking forward to another 30 years with more of the same. You’re a great son and a terri c Dad to your beautiful family, we are very proud of your life achievements. ~ Lots of love from Mum, Dad, Tamara, Gav, Penny, Abbey, Louis, Olivia, Georgia and Nathan. xxx
BAILLIE, Jesse Liam.
25/8/2005 – 13/5/2025
Tragically taken.
Adored son of Alexis.
Baby brother of Tayla and Brody. Loved grandson of Michael and Lyn. Beloved brother-in-law and Uncle of Chloe, Torah, Amarnii and Sebastian. Favourite nephew of Michael and Danni.
Adored friend to so many.
A great listener with a kind heart. Forever 19.
Funeral details are not yet nalised. Please see North East Funerals website for further details.
LEITCH, Lesley Rae.
The President and Members of the Wangaratta Central Combined Probus Club are deeply saddened by the passing of our member Lesley Leitch. Our deepest sympathy goes to Les Leitch and family from all club members on this sad occasion. She will be sadly missed.
PORTER, Avis Annie.
12/6/1952 – 16/5/2025
Late of Wangaratta. Passed away peacefully at Ringwood Private Hospital.
Dearly loved wife of Greg. Loving mother of Sally, Murray, Crystal, Kalista and Libby. Mother-in-law of Simon, Lea, Shane and Alyce.
Adored Ma of Charlie, Harrison and Axle.
A silent thought, a silent tear, Always wishing you were here.
WEST, Margaret Anne. 31/12/1938 – 17/5/2025
Loved and loving sister of John (dec). Sister-in-law of Anne. Aunty of Michael, Elizabeth, Peter, Catherine, Rachel, Georgina, Michelle and their partners.
Wonderful Great Aunty to 22 nieces and nephews and 22 great, great, nieces and nephews.
Special memories of a life well lived. The Lord is my Shepherd.
MALONE
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Lyn Malone will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Saturday, May 24, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. Private cremation will follow the service. In lieu of owers, a donation made in Lyn’s memory to Camp Quality would be preferred. Donations can be made online at https://fundraise.campquality.org.au/st/7826/e Lyn’s service may be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
PORTER, Avis.
Members of Wangaratta West
Combined Probus are saddened by the sudden passing of our dear member Avis.
Deepest sympathy is extended to Greg and the family.
Aged 70 years. Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Much loved wife of Craig. Mum to Nadine, Andrea, Jillian, Sam, Kayla, and Nathan. Mother-in-law to Gordon, Abdullah, Humphrey, Jacqui, Jason, and Mick. Nanna to Jack, Ethan, Jorja, Lucy, Noah, Archie, Lilly, Aisha, Justyce, Walter, Stella, Elliot, and Lucas.
As hard as it is to see you go,
WEST, Margaret.
Passed peacefully at St Catherine’s Aged Care Facility on May 17, 2025.
Beloved sister of Stephen and sister-in-law of Angela.
Treasured Aunt of Carolyn and Patrick, and their partners, Jack and Lauren. May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back. May the sunshine warm upon your face, The rains fall so upon your elds. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
DEATH NOTICES
RYAN (Ninyett), Lorraine Jean.
October 31, 1955 – May 14, 2025
Our lovely Lorraine, Mum, Ma, Grandma, Our quiet light, Our Morning star, So strong and bright.
Dearly loved wife of John. Cherished and loved mother of David, James, Meg, Alexander, William and Anthony. Treasured and loved by Kristin, Roderick, Harley, Jess and Cara. Loved Grandmother of Max, Alice, Charlie and Grace.
RYAN (Ninyett), Lorraine Jean.
Passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Never more than a thought away, Loved and remembered every day.
Loving sister to Anne, and sister-in-law to John.
Dearest Auntie to Tom, Allie, and Tess. Great-Auntie to Hazel and Hamish.
RYAN (Ninyett), Lorraine Jean.
October 31, 1955 – May 14, 2025
The deepest feelings, never take wing, for they live in words unspoken.
FINLAY
The Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Samuel “Sam” Finlay will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street Wangaratta on Monday, May 26, 2025 commencing at 2pm.
A private cremation has been held. Sam’s service will be available to view via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
HUDSON, Kendric Francis.
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Kendric Francis Hudson will be held at the Wangaratta Uniting Church, 10 Rowan Street, Wangaratta on Friday, May 30, 2025 commencing at 10am. Private burial at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. A recording of the service will be available from 2pm, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
PORTER
The service to celebrate the life of Mrs Avis Annie Porter will be held in St Michael’s Anglican Church, corner O’Leary and Appin Streets, Wangaratta on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 1.30pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. Flowers are welcome, or if preferred, a donation can be made in memory of Avis to the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Hospital at www.awh.org.au/support-us
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
RYAN
A service of thanksgiving for Mrs Lorraine Ryan will be held in The Wesleyan Methodist Church, Corner Par tt Road and Great Alpine Road, Wangaratta on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 commencing at 11am A private committal will take place prior to service.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060
WEST
A Requiem Mass for the repose of Margaret’s soul will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Our Lady’s Catholic Church, 102 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta, commencing at 12noon. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of prayers for interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery. Margaret’s funeral service may be viewed via livestream at northeastfunerals.com.au/live-streaming.
May 28, 1985
Always remembered with love from his family. ~ Stephen, Penny and extended family.
Michelle Hill etches her name into tennis history with world championship
funeral
Remember your loved one in a lasting way
The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community.
Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of owers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.
The bereaved family will be noti ed of your memorial gi according to your wishes and you will receive a taxdeductible receipt for your donation. To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact -
■ From back page
This proved to be too much as her body started to shut down again and she was transported by ambulance and admitted to hospital, where she has made a slow but full recovery.
“It has always been a goal of mine to win a gold medal at the World Championships and I am so happy that I have nally realised that goal, especially in such trying circumstances,” Hill said.
“There is no way I could have achieved this without my wonderful support team.
“I would like to thank Michael Rutlege who is not only my GP but also my regular hitting partner, my sister Maryann who always provides help when I need it and my husband Peter for everything he does that enables me to play tennis in both Australia and overseas.
“I am also very thankful for the interest and support that I have received from my friends and from so many other people in Wangaratta, especially from the Galen College community.”
Boorhaman golf open day
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IF you’re keen for a bit of a hit at a gorgeous golf club this weekend, Boorhaman Golf Club is putting on a party with their annual Opening Day event.
On Sunday, 25 May, the club will be hosting a nine-hole two person ambrose competition with a barbecue lunch as well.
While ‘opening day’ is a bit of a misnomer, due to the year-round activities which take place at the course, Boorhaman Golf Club president Marcus Neal said it was a fun wink to the history of the club.
“The club was initially set up as a winter course only, because we didn’t have water on the course, designed for people to play in winter,” he said.
“Now it’s played on all year, we’ve got footgolf and everything, but we’ve kept the tradition of the open day going at the same time.
“It’s a bit of a misleading term, I suppose, but that’s where the term originated.”
Neal said the day was perfect for golfers looking for a delicious feed
and some fun on the golf course.
“We’re having lunch rst, anybody‘s invited to the lunch at 1pm - the local publican who’s also the club captain, Nick Batchelor, is cooking, it’ll be roast pork,” he said.
“We get a lot of people come for the lunch only, everyone’s welcome, just tell us you’re coming so we can cater correctly.
“It’s nothing too serious, a twoperson ambrose, a longest drive, closest to the pin, but we want to promote the country atmosphere, the country hospitality.
“We’ve tried to make it a bit bigger this year.
“Some people from Albury are coming, some people from Yarrawonga are coming, we’ve got three ladies from Tarrawingee Golf Club coming over, and we should have about 20 locals.
“It’s an enjoyable day, if you want to play to win you can, but a lot of people will just be there for fun.”
The fun commences on Sunday, 25 May with lunch from 1pm and tee o at 2pm.
Competition fee is $20 per per-
for
only $10.
Contact Marcus Neal on 0417
530 339 to register for catering pur-
poses – for more information or to keep up to date with the club’s activities, visit boorhamangolfclub. com.au or check out the club’s Facebook page.
Devils ready to defend home pitch
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WANGARATTA City FC is at home to Cobram Roar in this weekend’s round 11 AWFA xture, with both the senior men and women’s matches set to be entertaining.
For the men, the Devils will be looking to bounce back a er a 0-2 loss to rivals Myrtleford Savoy against the midtier Roar.
Senior men’s coach Vitaly Leschen said now was the time to start banking results, but it would be a challenge.
“It’s an important game for us, last home game for a while.
“We’re keen to transition from a ‘building’ team to one that starts get some results.
“It’ll be a di cult game with a few changes from weekend due to player availability, but the good thing is we have a very strong twos team this year to call upon.”
The reserves men have been exceptionally strong and sit fourth overall, and will be hot favourites to take the
points from 10th-placed Cobram.
Meanwhile, the senior women will look to this weekend as a chance to grow against a similar team.
Roar and the Lady Devils sit in the latter half of the standings, with each recording the solitary win so far this year.
A er a resounding success over Savoy on the weekend, the Lady Devils will enter the match brimming with con dence, but wary of the relatively unknown Cobram.
“I guess it’s just important as any week that we go and play good football, and results will come regardless of what team we play,” women’s coach Raul Pahina said.
“I expect Cobram will be a young side like ours.
“If we bring the same energy and same football as we have brought for the past two weeks, I’m con dent we work away with three points.”
The division two women will take on Boomers White, due to Cobram not elding a team in the reserve competition.
CONTINUED GROWTH: Brianna McGregor and the senior Lady Devils will look to string two wins in a row. PHOTOS: Kat De Naps Photography
FUN FOR ALL: Boorhaman Golf Club’s open day event will bring eager golfers to the picturesque club this weekend.
son, $10
juniors which includes the lunch, while a lunch ticket is
Autumn table tennis wraps up
BALLS were ying o the bats on Wednesday, 14 May in a night of exciting contests at the Wangaratta Table Tennis Association autumn nals night, with all players endeavouring to bring their best game to the tables.
A Grade
NE Ag & Industrial (Andrew Lindner and Markus Angehrn) secured the championship, def Boralma Berkshire (Ash Wurtz and Austin Lindner) with a nal rubber score of 3/2. Markus was in ne form all night, taking the rst match over Austin in seven sets.
Ash defeated Andrew in an amazing display of quality table tennis in the sixth game.
Andrew defeated Austin in the third rubber before Markus came close to doing the unexpected against Ash in another thriller but Ash prevailed, winning 11/9 in the seventh game.
In the deciding doubles match, Andrew and Markus made a strong combination and very happily won it in ve.
B Grade
Nathan Vincent Contracting (Michael Bellingham and John Maletta) def Boralma Berkshire (Steve Picken and Tim Oliver) with a nal rubber score of 3/2.
Scores were even a er the singles rubbers and it took some persistence in the doubles for Michael and John to come away with the win from their worthy competitors.
C Grade
NE Agricultural & Industrial (Aaron Plum and Ollie Andrew) def Blue Raven (Phil Fitzgerald and Manny Poulos) with a nal rubber score 3/0.
This result was decided early as Aaron and Ollie both played consistently to win the rst three singles matches of the night.
D Grade
Appin Park General Store (Michelle Bowd and Renee McCarthy) were declared Autumn Premiers, def Auto 8 (Matt Curran and Jesse Hughes) nal rubber score 3/2.
This was an exciting nal with both intensely competitive teams keeping their hopes alive until the deciding doubles. This has been a regular scenario each week for Michelle and Renee, and once again their doubles play was e ective in achieving a nals win.
Consistency Awards
A Grade: Andrew Lindner. B Grade: Ivano Groom. C Grade: Seth Knox. D Grade: Michelle Bowd.
In other club news, Wangaratta entered a team in AlburyWodonga Table Tennis Association season one competition. Congratulations to Markus Angehrn, Robert Voss, Austin Lindner and Andrew Lindner who were successful in winning division one of the team competition.
The winter competition will commence on Wednesday, 4 June.
Muster nights will be held on the last two Wednesdays in May, and all interested new and existing players are welcome – enquiries to Tom Brown (president) at 0429 809 927.
Baseball season brings Wangaratta Rangers north
ROUND four of North East Baseball Association action saw Wangaratta’s teams compete on the border.
Rangers Orange were first to bat in the Under 15’s game and only had four batters face the plate before they lost their third out for no score.
Warriors started well, batting to the seventh batter and bringing in five runs for the dig.
The second innings saw the same thing happen, Rangers brought in five runs in their next turn at bat but Warriors went one better to score another six runs, winning 17-5.
In the Under 12s game, Rangers Orange hit well to the gaps to bring in two runs to Warriors’ three in the first inning.
Orange continued to bat well and added five runs to their score whilst holding Warriors from adding to theirs.
Neither side scored for the rest of the game and Wodonga Warriors won another game, 7-3.
While both the B grade sides had their first batter put out without getting on base, their next three batters were brought home before losing their second and third out, both leaving a runner on third base.
Rangers Orange added three runs in the second and two more in their third innings while Warriors only added one run
in their third to trail by four runs to eight at the top of the fourth.
Warriors scored five runs in their turn at bat to trail 9-15 when the score was reverted back to even innings when time and game was called halfway through the fifth dig.
In the A grade game, Rangers Orange brought in five runs in their first turn at bat then held Warriors to just two.
The tables were turned in the second innings when Warriors held Orange to adding just one run, then bringing in five runs themselves to lead by one run at the top of the third innings.
With the help of the wind, Warriors started to hit the ball over the outfielders’ heads and brought in 12 runs for that dig alone, a feat rarely seen in this grade of baseball.
Orange could only hit single base hits and were restricted to adding only one more run for the game, while Warriors added two more to win 22-7.
At Springdale Heights, Rangers Black played Albury Bears Green.
Black batted first and scored two runs before they lost their third out, then Bears Green batted their regulation seven batters without an out.
Black’s next three batters were struckout in their turn at bat then Green added another five runs to lead by 10 runs at the
top of the third innings.
Black regrouped to bring in five runs in their turn at bat, then shut out Green from adding to their score.
Bears Green won 12-7.
In the Under 12s Rangers Black only lost two outs in their seven batters, scoring five runs.
Black added three runs to Green’s six in the next dig, but failed to bring in any runs during the following inning, while Green added another three to hold a good lead going into the last inning.
Black came back well in their batting to add another six runs to their score but Green did not have to bat, and ran out winners 15-13.
The C grade game was a low scoring game, with only 13 runs scored over the four innings played.
Rangers scored three runs in their first dig and Bears only brought in two runs before they lost their third out.
Rangers went three up, three down in their second and Bears brought home another four runs to lead six runs to Rangers three at the start of the third innings.
Rangers could only bring in one run in each of their next three turns at bat, while Bears added another one run in their third dig and held on to win by that margin, Bears seven runs to Rangers six runs.
Rangers Black only had four batters face
the plate in their first bat in their B grade game against Bears.
Bears’ first two runners got home from errors by Rangers in the field and brought in another two runs before they lost their third out.
Fielding errors crept into both sides, Rangers Black brought in two earned runs before they added another four unearned runs from Bears fielding errors.
Rangers Black had another five runs come in, in their last innings, three of them from errors, while Bears had six runs cross to hold on and win, 14-12.
The A grade game was a one-sided affair from start to finish.
Rangers Black’s first batter was brought home before they lost their third out in the first inning.
Bears first batter did not get on base, then their next four batters all hit deep to outfield, two of them home runs, bringing in four runs for the dig.
Rangers Black did not score in the second and Bears brought in another five runs.
Rangers Black’s next three batters were all put out without reaching first base and Bears batted in four runs in their batting dig.
Rangers started to get some safe hits and brought in three runs in their last two innings, although Bears did not score in their last innings, they held on to win 13-5.
Champion golfers bestowed with glory at Wangaratta Golf Club
THE Wangaratta Golf Club women golfers held their championships over the past three weeks in beautiful sunny weather, with the last round played on Tuesday, 20 May.
After being runner up several times, Jan Hill was finally victorious with her first club championship and was delighted with her win.
It was a tight finish between Hill and defending champion Glenda Dodson with a play-off to determine final standings.
The division two champion was Jacqui Hoggan, her first win off the back of some very nice golf, while runner up in division two was Janette Collier.
The division three champion was Jill Halbwidl, her second win, but it was a tight finish between Jill and Barbara Woodward with a play-off.
The 54-hole handicap winner was Jacqui Hoggan.
It was a great threeweek event with some excellent golf being played on a course in great condition.
Jr 32, Felix Gamze 32. NTPs - 8th: Jon Coghill, 13th: W Hibberson, Monday, 19 May
Veterans stableford
A Grade winner: Brian Thomas 38.
B Grade winner: Barry Adams 32.
Ball winners: Ian Dinsdale 34, Peter Geldens 33, Alan White 32, John McKenzie 32.
NTPs - 4th: Neville Hogan, 8th: Ian Dinsdale, 13th: Brian Luxford.
Tuesday, 20 May
Ladies’ stroke
A Grade Winner: Ang Mitchell +4. B
Grade Winner: Joy Hester -2.
Ball winners: Carol Myles +2, Chris Boseley +3, Josie Fitzsimons +4, Janet Wraith +5, Judy Fogarty +5.
NTPs - 8th: Joy Hester, 13th: Josie Fitzsimons, 17th: Di Murphy.
Wednesday, 21 May
9 Hole stableford
Winner: Mark Dean 23.
Runner Up: Mark Hall 39 points.
Ball Winners: Barry Thompson, Paul Judd, Luca Campagna, Michael Webster, Michael Cordier, Phillip Winnell, Neville McCormack, Matt Fischer, Bobby Hutchieson.
NTPs - 7th: Trevor Trimble, 9th: Stephen Smith, 11th: Phillip Winnell, 13th: Michael Cordier, 16th: Arnold Sparks.
9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Peter King 21 points.
Runner Up: Rodney Godde 19 points.
Ball Winners: John Walker.
Thursday, 15 May
Women’s 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Barbara Thomas 17 points
C/B. Runner Up: Jill Halbwidl 17 points.
18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Lorraine Adams 35 points
C/B. Runner Up: Janette Collier 35 points.
Saturday, 17 May
Secret 6: Callum Honey.
Raffle Winner: Craig Donoghue
Women’s 18 Hole Stroke Event
Winner: Sue McCall 79 nett.
Runner Up: Glenda Dodson 82 nett. Sunday 18, May
Medley Competition: 18 Hole Stableford event
Winners: Rhys Lines 37 points C/B.
Runner Up: Nathan Bradley 37 points.
Ball Winners: Michael Webster.
TARRA GOLF
THE members played the third round of the club championshipsafter three rounds, the leader is Ken Miller with Mark Nolan in second place, followed by Leo McCoy.
The final round is to be played on Saturday, 24 May.
SCOREBOARD
Tarra Ladies Tarra Ladies completed the final round of their 2025 Club Championships.
Congratulations go to Di McLaughlin who is the 2025 Club Champion.
Joan Quarrell earned the runnerup trophy this year after being closely chased by Lynn Barrow.
Next week the girls will play a stableford round for the monthly Milawa Hotel Award.
Because of the chillier mornings the golfers have agreed to have a 10am for 10.30am start over the next few months.
WANG CROQUET
Ball winners: Bert Verway +1, Glen O’Connell +1, Rick Harnwell +2, Kelvin Archer +2, Mark Flack +3, Trevor Gunn +3, Ian Dinsdale +3, Alan White +3, Matt Sanders +3, Brian Lee +3, Jim Moore +4, Adrian Speziale +4, Tom Arnold +4, Andrew Oliver +5, Terry Docherty +5, Ben Honeychurch +5, Alan Sands.
NTPs - 4th: Tanu, 8th: T Nippress, 13th: N Cooper, 17th: N Cooper. Sunday, 18 May
Mixed Stableford
A Grade winner: Daniel Lewis 33. B Grade winner: Leo Keast
33 C/B.
Ball winners: Andrew Kelly 34, Paul Moss-Holland 33, Joseph Marjanovic
Ball winners: Matt Walker 18, Rog Henderson 16, Kim Arnold 16, Michael Tanner C/B 14.
NTPs - 13th: A White, 17th: M Dean.
WANG GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending 18 May.
Tuesday, 13 May
18 Hole Stroke Event - Second Round Women’s Club Championship
Winner: Judith Brown nett 70.
Runner Up: Dawn Fleet nett 72 C/B.
Ball Winners: Barbara Thomas, Julie McInnes, Lorraine Adams, Jacqui Hoggan, Jan Hill, Helen Tate.
NTPs - 11th: Barbara Thomas, 13th: Janette Collier.
Wednesday, 14 May
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Rod Moyle 40 points.
18 Hole Men’s Stableford Event –
President’s Gold Cup
A Grade Winner: Mathew Tucker 38 points. Runner Up: Matt Fischer 37 points.
Ball Winners: Brett Sessions, Ian Rundell, Trevor Cooper, Dale Symes, John Southwell, Chris Oates, Drew Winter, Paul Judd, Peter Crawford, Gregory Sullivan, Leon Kantor, Jye Cunneen, Stephen Smith, Neville McCormack.
NTPs - 4th: Dennis Hill, 7th: Christopher Martens, 9th: Gregory Sullivan, 11th: Robert Murray, 13th: Ben Clarke, 16th: Ian Rundell.
Birdies: McDonalds - Matt Fischer, Jeremy Winter, Michael Webster.
In conjunction with the third round of the championships, the members played for the Presidents Trophy which was won by Angelo Garraffo 91/21/70,
Runner up was Leo McCoy 91/20/71, and ball winner was Lindsay Steer nett72.
Nearest the pin on the fourth was Mark Nolan, there were no other NTPs for the day.
Golf to be played on Saturday, 24 May will be the final round of the club championships.
Ladies are definitely welcome to also join the members for a day’s golf.
It will be an 11.30am roll up for an 12pm noon hit-off.
New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee club with first year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees - this can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.
RESULTS for Monday, 19 May are as follows:
Wendy Waddington and Nathan Reynolds d Cheryle Beckley and Elise Downes 5/3, Susan Fischer and Gavan Kelly d Julie Sheahan and Terry Wilson 6/5, Joan Dyson and Dawn Wind d Margaret Bennett and Jed Hart 7/4.
In one game on Monday, Susan Fischer managed to get her ball into the hoop from a long way away, which pleased her immensely. On Wednesday, Eileen Kapperer played very well, running several hoops.
Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta. For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009, or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
TOP PLAYERS: Wangaratta Golf Club women’s champions and runners up (back from left) Jill Halbwidl, Barb Woodward, Jan Hill (Club Champion), Janette Collier,
SPORT
Dragons show their class
Division two men
THE division two men played Falcons Black on Sunday morning in Albury.
In the rst quarter both sides played safe, and the teams were well matched, but in the second quarter, the Dragons picked up the pace.
The number of runs on goal by Wangaratta increased until Henry Findlay passed to Matt Vogels and the rst goal was scored.
The Dragons maintained the pressure, with Simon Lipshut scoring the second goal.
A er half-time, the Falcons came back with some energy to have some great shots on goal.
The skill of Alex James either stopped the goal, or the great defensive work of Alex Doig, Sam Couche and Xavier Bennet sent the ball right back the other end.
Some great runs from Cameron Leatham, intercepts from Alex Ellem and passes from Edward Robertson led to many shots but no change to the nal score, Dragons winning 2-0.
Division three women
On a chilly Saturday afternoon, the division three women’s team took to the eld with energy and determination for their match against Wodonga R White.
Kiana Lane was impressive with her sharp dribbling and accurate passing, which helped to keep the play owing smoothly across the eld.
Sophie Shallue brought incredible pace to the game, using her lightning speed to chase down loose balls and put pressure on the opposition.
In defence, Mary Edwards stood strong, showing great
ADVANCE: Amelie Reilly runs the ball upfield.
awareness and composure to make smart passes and relieve pressure on the backline.
The highlight of the match came from Emma Gall, who scored two brilliant goalswith strong teamwork and support from her fellow players, both goals were the result of excellent build-up play and team collaboration.
Final score was 2-0 to Dragons.
Division three men
The SF Builders division three men took on Wodonga in Wangaratta on Saturday a ernoon.
As usual, Wodonga started the game at a fast pace, but the Dragons were up for the challenge and matched Wodonga’s e ort and quickness.
The mid eld of Simon Lipshut, Tim Longman, Michael Wheeler and Stewart Kerr combined well in defence and attack, making their Wodonga counterparts work extremely hard for the ball.
The combination on Kerr and Izaac Cameron was again fruitful, working well together to get around the
Ryan
Wodonga defence to put the ball into the goal to take a 1-0 lead into half-time.
Wodonga came out fast again in the second half, but unfortunately the Dragons were unable to match the extra e ort.
Wodonga were able to sneak a couple of so goals late in the game to take the win 2-1.
This week the division three men are at home again taking in the Magpies in what should be another tough game.
Under 16 boys
Despite the scoreboard reading 5-0 in favour of the Falcons, Friday’s match was a far closer contest than the nal result suggested.
In defence, Atticus Thomson had an outstanding game, constantly backing up our reliable goalie, Noah Fitzgerald, who made several crucial saves under pressure.
Tom Wright was a standout across the pitch with his relentless energy - he simply never stopped running and was involved in both defence and attack throughout the game.
The Falcons came out strong early, scoring three goals in the rst quarter.
However, our team responded well, conceding just one goal in the second and holding them scoreless in the third quarter.
Only one more goal was let in, re ecting the team’s resilience.
With a bye this week, we have plenty of positives to build on when we take on CR United in a fortnight.
Under 16 girls
The United Wangaratta and Corowa team were evenly matched with the Wodonga team for the rst half of their match on Friday evening, with both teams scoreless at half-time.
However, with tireless running and persistent attacks on goal by Bea Zabenko, Rahni Sorenson, Sophie Shallue and Amelia McAleice, Lily Radnor was perfectly placed to score a breakthrough goal in the third term.
This opened the oodgates, and the United team was able to score two more times and run over Wodonga 3-0.
Under 14 boys
The under 14 boys faced a very good Magpies team, who ran them o their feet all day.
The Magpies won the match 14-0.
James Wheeler had his best game of the season, and ran and competed hard all day.
Leo Fidge, new to hockey, played a sensational game, working very hard, tackling and competing well.
Hugh Barnden, lling in as goalkeeper, and signi cantly outsized by his opponents, was stoic in goals.
Harry Biglin, Alex Rymill, Hunter Ross were brave in defence, making many tackles and under constant pressure.
Under 12 girls
A team of 13 excited Under 12 girls hit the eld on the weekend, taking on the Magpies.
Lilly Barrett was in the thick of it right from the rst whistle, causing all sorts of trouble for the Magpies in the mid eld.
She linked up really well
with Maddy Benton on the wing, and the two kept the pressure on early. By half-time, it was still 0-0, but the Dragons had all the momentum.
In the second half, the team showed awesome discipline by sticking to their positions and working together. Their e orts paid o with three quick goals from Elsie Cunneen, who was on re. Helena Malcolm nished it o with a sneaky nal goal and took home the Coaches Award for her e orts.
Final score was Dragons 4 to Magpies 0.
Under 12 mixed
The under 12 boys and girls faced Magpies at Wangaratta on Saturday morning.
These were two wellmatched sides, but the young Dragons were keen to apply their skills and place pressure on the Magpies defence.
The pressure from Miles and Lewis Henderson soon paid o with an early goal for Wangaratta from Elsie Cunneen.
In the second half, Magpies started of strong and gave Hugh Barnden, Pippa Reilly, Tyler Drage and Ethan Parkinson a chance to put their defensive skills into action.
Oscar Reid, Lily Barrett and Patrick Lipshut persisted with their attack on Magpies wing, until Oscar scored the second goal.
Cooper Drage made some solid plays in mid eld and Harvey Rivett made a great run into o ence, but faced ve opponents and had no running teammates to assist him.
Final score was 2-1 Wangaratta’s way.
Smaller numbers no hamper on the action at Oxley
WHILE numbers were down at the Oxley Hall, noise and vitality were sky high when 14 players ‘ran riot’ in the non-stop singles and doubles contests at the Oxley social table tennis competition last Monday night.
Getting o to an early start, Gary Coad teamed up with Richard Morgan to take on Peter Day and Mick Gervasoni in a hair-raising performance in all facets of the game. With long, low serves and well-placed returns, every point was hard-fought from the rst ‘ping’ of the ball.
With Gary and Peter using their long reach to their advantage, their respective opponents Richard and Mick put them under the hammer with precise placements to all points of the table.
A er a seemingly endless test of fortitude, where neither pair was prepared to give an inch, nal scores saw one pair win by a millimetre. In a game of ‘girls’ versus ‘boys’, Debbie Brunken and June Uebergang joined forces to take on Martin Butcher and William Bonwick in a game of ‘power
with and without glory’.
A game where almost every stroke was ‘on the table’, with well-considered placement of serves and strokes, saw each pair playing ‘hand-inhand’ (sort of) in their search of victory on every point.
With each pair holding the lead at di erent stages, a very enjoyable and competitive game ended with a ‘grand slam’ from William and Martin.
In one of the ‘how many’ games each had already played, Amanda van der Poel teamed up with Neil Brock to
test the mettle of ‘young gun’ Ryan van der Poel and Richard Morgan in what developed into a tight tussle.
Neil’s long, low serves and drives, Amanda’s high, sharpangled placement, Richard’s bat and foot speed and Ryan’s ability to handle whatever comes his way ensured the game would be a ‘ripper’.
With scores going pointfor-point for what seemed an eternity, it was not surprising to hear one pair won the tiebreaker.
When the young and ‘unstoppable’ Harriet Day and
‘Will I Am’ Bonwick faced ‘ eet-foot’ Paul Lawrence and ‘on-the-go’ Sharene Gervasoni, onlookers predicted the contest would go ‘down to the wire’.
A game where each pair gave their all as they faced - and braced for - the onslaught of their opponents’ combined strategy.
Wide, narrow and long net cords, table edges were all on show from both pairs, giving spectators their ‘two bucks worth’.
Despite the contest of each point being hard-fought, -
nal scores saw Harriet and William come home with a well-earned victory.
Following a long night of mental and physical enjoyment, everyone tucked into a cuppa or two and supper while catching up with local news and the assurance they’d be back at it again next week. Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are most welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley Hall each Monday night at 7pm. BYO bat, $2 entry fee, and a plate to share.
QUICK-WITTED PLAYERS: Paul Lawrence and William Bonwick take on Sharene Gervasoni and Harriet Day in a doubles match.
EYES ON THE BALL: Peter Day and Harriet Day team up against Debbie Brunken.
FRIENDLY COMPETITION: William Bonwick and
van der Poel mid-match against Richard Morgan and Paul Lawrence. PHOTOS: Neil Brock
CROSS: Michael Wheeler passes the ball to a teammate.
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to junior netball on Saturday morning to caption some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
CHELSEA CANNING
GRACE O’KEEFE
MILLIE HERMANS
LILLIAM HENSHALL
LUCY WILKINSON
CHARLIE CLARK
LUNA VOGELS
LILLIAN HENSHALL
DASH MANNING
GRACE MARTIN
LEXI REES
MIA THOMPSON
Chastened Lions must respond MATCH PREVIEWS
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
THEIR season took a turn for the worst last weekend, and if they fancy themselves legitimate nals contenders, Whorouly needs an immediate and massive response on Saturday.
The Lions were far from their best in their 13-point defeat to Tarrawingee last weekend, a result many may not have seen coming, and one which came as a harsh reminder no match can be taken lightly.
Whorouly coach Michael Newton said the loss hit the group hard, but they were determined to right the ship and respond.
“I think the boys took the loss pretty hard, they’re all keen to make amends for the weekend’s performance,” he said.
“We’ll give Tarra a lot of credit, they were coming o a good performance the week before against Bonnie Doon, they pushed them, and they really came to play.
“They hunted us in numbers, they set up really well in the centre square and taught us a lesson around those areas of the ground.
“I just don’t think we came ready to play, and we got taught a lesson.
“Everyone can see it was a disappointing loss for us, but we’ve got to get back on the horse.
“We got to work this week at training, and there’s no better challenge than the next week.”
A er eight rounds of compe tition, Whorouly sits seventh on the senior ladder, one of four clubs ghting for realisti cally just a few available spots in the nals.
Up against them this week end is a Goorambat side which has been ying over the past few seasons, currently fourth overall having only dropped two games.
They’ve got the talent, they’ve at their home ground, and they want to prove they’re worthy of playing nals.
Newton said the senior side will welcome back a few play ers who were missing last weekend, but the Bats would be a tough opponent.
“We’re looking forward to the opportunity to play Goo rambat who are going really well at the moment,” he said.
“They’ve got a good tall forward down there in [Duane] Haebich, so we’ll have to shut down his in uence.
“We’ll get to work around the footy, win the contest, and limit supply down in their front half.
“We get four back this week, potentially ve, so it’ll be good to have a few guys back and start creating a bit more pressure on spots once again.
BACK IN: The return of Russ Eden will give the Lions some speed and versatility out on the wing. INSET: Duane ‘Brush’ Haebich has booted 40 goals from seven appearances.
MAIN PHOTO: Nathan de Vries/INSET: Melissa Beattie
“Joel Bihun will have to pass a tness test during the week, Declan Hoy-Maroney is back, he was unavailable on the weekend and so was Russel Eden, and Ed Bramich is back.
“It’s good to get some core players back.”
The Bats host the Lions, with
ten on the wrong end of a one-sided result, but they’ve stuck together and kept their nose to the grindstone.
North Wangaratta will take on a struggling Greta squad in what could be the spark they need to get their season underway.
Hawks A grade coach Ruby Lane-Gee said the tenacity of the group and willingness to work hard and try new combinations was simply inspiring.
“It’s been a slower start to the season than we had hoped, and to be honest, a bit more challenging than expected,” she said.
“We’ve got a fantastic group of girls, essentially a brand-new team, and while some of us are no strangers to tough losses, for others it’s a new and di cult experience.
“But full credit to the team, setbacks don’t de ne us.
“Every week we reset, adapt, and move forward to face the next challenge.
“One of the biggest positives so far has been the exibility within our squad, the willingness of every player to step into di erent roles has been invaluable,” Lane-Gee said.
“Hayley Cunningham continues to be a cornerstone of our defence, delivering another standout season with her reliability and composure.
“Eliza Cole has been a tremendous addition to our defensive end, complementing Hayley perfectly and adding further stability to the team.
“In attack, Tess Devine has been a consistent contributor and continues to develop and strengthen her game each week.”
Up against them this weekend is a diminished Blues out t who don’t appear to be the world-conquerors of years gone by.
Greta have just the one win to their name, but Lane-Gee said the focus was rmly on
something we’ll be doubling down on in this match.
“This group has been putting in the work since December, and I truly believe a win is just around the corner.
“When success comes after so much hard work and perseverance, it’s all the more rewarding.
“I’m proud of how far the team has come already, and I’m excited for what’s still to come.”
North Wangaratta hosts Greta this Saturday, with the A grade clash set for a 2.30pm start.
In other round nine A grade matches, it’s three versus one when Whorouly heads across to Goorambat for what’s tipped to be a corker.
The Lions haven’t lost a game since round two, while the Bats have similarly been on an absolute tear.
Milawa hosts Moyhu, Bonnie Doon are at home to the Valley, and Benalla All Blacks make the trek up to Bright.
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
O&M’s greatest are locked in INTERLEAGUE
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THE 22 players who will run out for the Ovens and Murray this weekend against Goulburn Valley League have been revealed.
Over three weeks of training, the initial wide squad of 44 was cut in half to make up the final team, with guns from across the league ready to pull on the gold and black this weekend.
The final training session was held on Wednesday night at W.J. Findlay Oval, the very same venue where the squad will battle it out for the Ash-Wilson Trophy against GVL on Saturday.
Senior coach Jake Sharp said the process of bringing the team together had been extremely enjoyable.
“The level of commitment and buy-in from the boys has been positive, the squad’s been really transparent with where they’re at, they’ve been a really easy group to coach,” he said.
“When you do these sorts of programs you want that buy-in and that energy, it makes it so much more enjoyable.
“It’s a credit to the boys they’ve got out of their shell and been able to generate that themselves over the last three weeks.”
The team will be skippered by former Rover and current Corowa Rutherglen star Cody Schutt.
With the cream of the crop all battling for a limited number of jumpers, Sharp said there were challenging calls at the selection table.
OAK
FM votes: Round 6
Wangaratta vs North Albury: 5 C. Knowles (Wang), 4 T. Norton (Wang), 3 A. Tilley (Wang), 2 J. Clarke (Wang), 1 M. Bordignon (Wang).
Yarrawonga vs Rovers: 5 L. O’Brien (Rov), 4 C. Thompson (Rov), 3 B. Filo (Rov), 2 S. Cattapan (Rov), 1 B. Kennedy (Yarra).
“It was tough – when you’ve got plenty of the best players available, there are some tricky decisions that you’ve got to make but ultimately, I think we’ve got the balance right,” he said.
“We feel like we’ve got a team that balances up well and shapes up well.
“A few of our Melbourne boys have made massive commitments, travelling up from Melbourne to train each night, Harry Hewitt’s one of them.
“A few of the younger boys have caught my eye in the squad, Alex Swinnerton and Jack Costello are just two really hard workers.
“They all catch you eye, they all have strengths they showcase at this level which is why they’re representing us.”
Sharp said he was looking forward to seeing how his squad can match it with the might of GVL.
“They’re going to have their fair share of quality on the park,” he said.
“It’s more so just trying to bring a brand that we think will stack up and be more than competitive on the day, and keep us in the contest for as long as possible, and hopefully open up the contest at some point.”
Gates at W.J. Findlay Oval open at 10am for a day chock-full of interleague action.
The contest on the footy field commences from 12pm with the under 18s, before the seniors run out at 2.10pm.
O&M SENIOR INTERLEAGUE SQUAD
B: Zac Pethybridge (Myrtleford), Charlie Morrison (Wodonga), Jack Costello (Lavington).
Fol: Will Christie (Wangaratta Rovers), Ben Rigoni (North Albury), Tom Cappellari (Myrtleford).
Int: Simon Curtis (Myrtleford), Archer Gardiner (North Albury), Josh Murphy (North Albury), Jacob Conlan (Albury).
Emergencies: Bowen Calogero (Myrtleford), Alex McCarthy (Wangaratta Rovers), Foster Gardiner (North Albury), Nick Bracher (Wodonga Raiders), Ben Coghill (Yarrawonga).
Coach: Jake Sharp (Myrtleford).
The best against the best on interleague court
By SHANE DOUTHIE
Leaderboard: L. O’Brien (Rov) 14, J. East (Myrt) 13, J. Hayes (NA) 13, I. Muller (Alb) 12.
LEADING THE CHARGE: O&M senior
(le ) with
FOR rst-time O&M senior netball coach Kellie Keen, this weekend’s head-on clash with archrivals Goulburn Valley will be a memorable experience, no matter the result.
As a former interleague representative for both leagues, Keen knows what it takes to be competitive at this level and how challenging the task ahead will be.
“All the players that take the court are top level players,” she said.
“If we have a strong defensive end we can nullify their scoring to an extent but we need that defensive e ort all over the court.
“We have the experience in our defensive end, players like Hannah Symes, Sally Hunter and Hannah Grady, they will be the catalyst for our side.
“Up forward we have the youth, Grace Hay and Lily Kelly who have both played at VNL 23 and under and are two of the most accurate goalers in the competition, along with Lou Madden and Emily Stewart who have played interleague before.”
One of the key midcourt players unavailable this weekend is four-time Toni Wilson medallist Em Browne, who is out injured, but that has opened up the door for Holly McCarthy from Rovers, Maggie St John, Madison Lieshke, and Matilda Kennedy to go through the midcourt.
Keen said preparation had been a challenge
with a number of the squad playing or living in Melbourne but the team will get together again on Saturday morning to look at a few combinations.
“Having the best players together doesn’t happen too o en,” Keen said.
“It’s a great opportunity for everyone to test themselves against the best, especially the younger players.
“There will probably be less switching positions at this level compared to club games as each player excels in their position, but there are a few players who have that versatility if we need it.
“It will also be an opportunity for spectators to see the best players in action in what I expect to be a highly competitive match.”
The netball hits o with the 15 & Under match at 11.00am, followed by the Open at 12.30pm and 17 & Under at 2.00pm Gates open 10.00am.
The Team
Hannah Symes (Yarra) (c), Hannah Grady (Wang Magpies), Grace Hay (Nth Alb), Matilda Kennedy (Yarra), Sally Hunter (Cor-Ruth), Lily Kelly (Nth Alb), Holly McCarthy (Wang Rovers), Madison Lieschke (Nth Alb), Lou Madden (CorRuth), Laiesha Pell (Yarra), Emily Stewart (Wod Raiders), Maggie St John (Wod Raiders).
Coach: Kellie Keen. Assistant Coach: Fiona Boyer.
captain Hannah Symes. PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
LOCKED AND LOADED: O&M senior coach Jake Sharp said the group was eager to take the challenge to GVL this weekend.
PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
FootyTIPPING AFL
2025FootyTIPPING AFL
THE FOOTY PULSE
– Build Confidence, Support Your Club
AFL North East Border and AFL Victoria are hosting a free practical training session for current and aspiring club umpires on Wednesday 4th June, 6:00pm–7:30pm at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
Whether you’re interested in goal, boundary, or field umpiring, this is a great opportunity to learn key skills like positioning and game laws in a hands-on setting. Clubs will receive a $75 incentive per participant, so it’s a win-win for volunteers and local teams.
→ Register via the QR code!
Celebrating Grassroots Heroes
As part of our Volunteer Recognition Program, we recently celebrated Katie Gibson, Treasurer of the Wangaratta Auskick Centre. Since 2022, Katie has played a key role in growing one of the state’s largest Auskick programs.
Know someone like Katie? Nominate them via the QR code below for a chance to win a $50 Apco Service Stations Voucher.
Squads set for interleague clash
RACE TO THE BALL
Junior hockey player Stella Groetgoed keeps her concentration in her match last weekend. Wangaratta Dragons Hockey reports page 38.
World champion
WANGARATTA has a new world champion in tennis ace Michelle Hill, who played an integral part in helping the Australian team win the gold medal at the Masters Tennis World Championships in the United States last week.
The tournament was held in brutal conditions in Florida, which saw an extraordinarily high number of players succumb to the erce heat and high humidity.
Hill and her team progressed smoothly through the opening rounds of the competition before defeating Argentina in the quarter
Michelle Hill etches her name into tennis history with world championship gong
nals and France in the semi nal.
Their opponents in the nal were host nation America, who were also the number one seeds and reigning cup holders.
The match play format consisted of two singles matches and one doubles match.
Hill had the challenge of playing the opening singles match against the current world number one ranked player, Susan Wright. The rst set started in sti ing heat and high humidity and went game
for game with a tie-breaker required to decide the winner.
Hill trailed 2-5 in the rst to seven tie-breaker, but a lucky net cord and several big forehands got her over the line, 8-6.
A lapse in concentration proved costly in the second set, with Hill losing it 2-6.
The third set saw Hill and her opponent share breaks of serve until the Aussie led 5-4.
A match point lost in that game would see another tie breaker required to determine the winner. By this time, Hill was
on the brink of physical exhaustion and could barely move, having called on the help of her team-mates and medics several times at the change of ends, who covered her head to toe with ice towels.
It was stand and deliver time and Hill unleashed a barrage of unreturnable forehands to win the tiebreaker, 7-2.
A er an epic battle that lasted over three hours Hill had prevailed 7-6, 2-6, 7-6 and in doing so had put her team on the road to victory.
It was grit, determination
and a good measure of skill that helped Hill secure the vital win, before seeking medical attention for heatrelated issues.
In the second singles match, Australian Ros Balodis led her American opponent Ros Nide er (an ex-WTA circuit player) 6-4, 3-1 before also struggling massively in the oppressive conditions and eventually losing her match, 6-4, 4-6, 0-6.
Just 40 minutes later, Balodis and her partner Leanne Swaysland went out on court to bring home gold
for Australia winning the deciding doubles against Wright and Nide er 6-4 6-3.
Fortunately, Hill returned from the medical centre in time to watch the deciding doubles rubber and then take her place on the podium.
Hill was the only Australian player who went through the whole week undefeated and described her nals win as her best ever.
The next day Hill was required to play her rstround match in both singles and mixed in the individual competition.
