over FBT benefit
Sports Carnival ready, set, go
AUSSIE SPIRIT
MAYOR Irene Grant and My Slice of Life’s Chelsea Ibrom get geed up for the BBQ Showdown event on Australia Day at Mitchell Avenue Reserve in Wangaratta from 10am2pm.
Road toll rising
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POLICE are hoping to buck a tragic start to the year on local roads as Operation Amity comes into e ect for the Australia Day long weekend.
A 21-year-old not from the local area died following a crash in Glenrowan in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Senior Sergeant David Gillespie of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said the vehicle le the Glenrowan-Winton Road to the le and into a tree around 3:45am, killing the sole occupant and driver.
Wangaratta experiences “tragic” start to year on local
Snr Sgt Gillespie said the cause of collision had not yet been identi ed in the early stages of the investigation and police would consider multiple factors.
“Police are continuing to investigate the incident and will include such things as speed, alcohol and drugs, fatigue, seatbelts and mobile phone use,” he said.
“Albeit late at night, we ask any person with any information or dashcam footage of vehicles driving in or around that area at that
time of day to please contact CrimeStoppers (1800 333 000) or Wangaratta police (03 5723 0888).”
It’s the second fatal road incident within the Rural City of Wangaratta in a week and the third in the North East.
It follows a collision at Bowmans Forest on the Great Alpine Road which claimed the life of an 80-yearold Bowmans Forest man on January 15 and a fatal motorcycle crash in Bethanga on January 19.
The two deaths in Glen-
rowan and Bowmans Forest have already matched the total fatalities recorded on rural city roads for 2024, according to TAC road toll statistics.
Snr Sgt Gillespie said it had been a tragic start to the year on our roads.
“We need to remember as a community the impact this has on the immediate family members, friends and local communities associated with the person who has passed away,” he said.
“The Bowmans Forest colli-
O cial proceedings in theatre followed by light refreshments. Wednesday 5 February from 5pm |
roads
sion involved a second vehicle and we need to keep in mind the impact it’s going to have on other people involved in collisions such as this.
“Road trauma is far reaching and continues to occur well a er the collision has happened.”
Snr Sgt Gillespie said the investigation into the Bowmans Forest collision was ongoing and anyone with information or dashcam footage of the collision or the vehicles in or around the area at the time can call CrimeStop-
pers or Wangaratta police.
“Unfortunately that collision involved local people and we need to be mindful there are small communities among the North East and involvement of local people in road trauma has a terrible impact on a lot of people,” he said.
“We all need to play our part to ensure everyone is safe.”
Statewide, Operation Amity will run on local roads from Friday to 11:59pm Monday, January 27 in an e ort to reduce road trauma over the long weekend.
■ Continued page 2
Story page 2.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
SUPERCHARGE your Australian spirit this Sunday to celebrate all that’s good in the great land down under.
There is a long list of events in the Rural City of Wangaratta to help you make the most of Australia Day celebrations.
The rural city, in partnership with My Slice of Life, will hold a BBQ Showdown at Mitchell Avenue Reserve from 10am–2pm.
This family friendly Summer Sizzle Family Day event includes a barbecue competition, jumping castles, face painting and live music.
Mayor Irene Grant said the the BBQ Showdown will celebrate the quintessential Australian tradition of barbecuing.
“The barbecue holds signi cant social importance on Australia Day, symbolising outdoor gatherings, camaraderie, and shared experiences,” she said.
“It provides an opportunity for community members to showcase their culinary skills, enjoy local produce, and connect with neighbours.”
Other people in the community will enjoy a barbecue in the home towns and recognise people in the community who have gone that
Wangaratta experiences “tragic” start to year on local roads
■ From front pagfe
Snr Sgt Gillespie said police would be honed in on speeding and impaired driving involving drugs and drink driving throughout the operation.
“Please be mindful of the responsibilities associated with driving at any time but particularly over a long weekend where there’s going to be increased traffic flow,” he said.
“It’s imperative all people take the responsibility of driving seriously, we plan our trips, we’re not put in a position where we feel like we have to speed a little bit over.
“Although low-level speeding might seem like it’s not a big issue to a lot of people actually contributes significantly to our road trauma.
“It’s the low-level speeding that we’re seeing seriously injuring and killing a lot of people across the state.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
extra mile to make their town’s the best they can be.
Cr Grant said recognising local achievers on Australia Day highlights their contributions and celebrates their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact.
“It also inspires others to contribute to our community,” Cr Grant said.
Overall Mayor Grant said celebrating the Australian way of life through occasions like Australia Day fosters a sense of community pride.
She said it allows residents to reect on our shared values of inclusivity, and resilience, reinforcing the bonds that strengthen our society.
Grab a free breakfast at any of the town events including the main event at Wangaratta’s King George V Gardens from 9am to 12 noon.
This will include the presentation of the Australia Day awards by Mayor Grant, and Australia Day Ambassador Caz Sammon.
These awards recognise outstanding contributions to the community and will be given to the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and the Project or Event of the Year.
This year 15 new Australian citizens will be welcomed who have come from Ghana, India, Iran, Pakistan, Philippines, South Africa, and Turkiye and have chosen the region of Wangaratta as their new home.
The o cial proceedings will be accompanied by live performances from Sing Australia and the Wangaratta Concert Band.
Following the formalities, the Wangaratta Lions Club will host a free breakfast barbecue with food generously donated by Wangaratta Woolworths.
In a symbolic gesture of unity and reconciliation, the Citizen of the Year will have the honour of having their handprint carved into the Marmungan Rock during National Reconciliation Week in mid-2025.
The Marmungun Rock ceremony was conceived by respected Elder Wally Cooper whose pride in his Aboriginal heritage and message of hope for the future inspired many. His ability to connect with all people helped build respect, under-
standing and reconciliation. 
Some 14 rural townships have also planned community gatherings.
AUSTRALIA DAY EVENT DETAILS
INCLUDE:
Official proceedings:
King George Gardens - 9am-12pm
Rural Events
Boorhaman Recreation Reserve8.30am
Carboor Hall - 9am
Cheshunt Hall - 6.30pm
Eldorado Memorial Hall - 6pm
Everton Hall - 8am
Glenrowan Lions Park - No Event
Greta - No Event
Hamilton Park Community Hub8.30am
Milawa Hall - 5.30pm
Moyhu Lions Park - 8.30am
Murmungee Hall - 7.30am
Peechelba Bushland Reserve8.30am
Springhurst Hall - 5.15pm *this event takes place on January 24
Tarrawingee Community Hall7.30am
Whorouly Memorial Hall - 8am
Summer Sizzle Family Day & Backyard BBQ Showdown at Wangaratta Splash Park, Mitchell Ave10am–2pm.
“We want everyone to enjoy the long weekend and enjoy the North East but drink alcohol responsibly and if you do drink, have a designated driver and never mix drugs with driving.”
Snr Sgt Gillespie said around 40 newly installed mobile driving distraction cameras have been rolled out on North East roads in an effort to pin down drivers who are not using their seatbelts or who are using their mobile phone while driving.
“Just because the police aren’t there doesn’t mean you’re not going to be getting into strife,” he said.
“We ask people to make sure they’re not using their phone and that their seatbelts are on.
Snr Sgt Gillespie urged motorists to also be mindful of an increased presence of motorcyclists in the region this time of year.
“We ask people to be mindful of their surrounds and be mindful of the decisions they make when their around motorcycles,” he said.
“We also ask motorcyclists to make sure their riding is appropriate and they’re not taking unnecessary risks at this time.”
Weekend scorcher presents extremely elevated fire risk
EXTREME heat on Sunday and Monday with forecast temperatures of 35 and 41 degrees Celsius has re ghting services on high alert.
Monday is expected to be the worst of the days with the CFA expecting hot, tinderdry conditions with a late wind change.
Coupled with the Australia Day long weekend and thousands of visitors to the area, the CFA has issued caution to everyone to be safe and take precautions.
CFA District 23 commander Scott Connor said temperatures are set to reach high temperatures and the conditions present a signi cant re risk.
“We have long, dry grass and dry forests and the high fuel loads elevating the re risk,” he said.
“CFA want to emphasise the importance for people to download the VicEmergency app and remaining alert to any res in the region.
“We also want people to know their bush re plan and prepare their homes such as reducing surrounding fuel loads to keep the re risks low.” If people are camping they
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
should only use proper constructed re pits, three metres in around, never leave res unattended and make sure there is a water source nearby and ensure res are fully extinguished before leaving.
CFA Chief O cer Jason He ernan encouraged travellers to familiarise themselves with the re danger ratings of the area they are heading to and to monitor conditions through more than two sources of information.
“While the recent bushres have been contained by the incredible work of our dedicated re ghters, re risk will continue to linger over the coming months,” Mr He ernan said. With the state still well within re restrictions, residents are reminded they cannot light a re in the open air to burn o vegetation without a permit issued by a re prevention o cer.
CO Jason He ernan also urges those ring up their
barbecues and outdoor cooking appliances this weekend to make sure they are properly extinguished before walking away.
“We want all Victorians to enjoy their long weekend without any surprises, so it is really important your set-up is safe,” Jason said.
“Our messages remain clear – check your equipment for any faults before use and always have someone by the re.
“We also recommend having at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby.
“Give yourself some clearance from walls, fences and
ammable materials of at least three metres and continue to check wind conditions are suitable before igniting any ame.
“We know camp res, spit roasts, pizza ovens and re pits will be popular this weekend, however, if they are not within a properly constructed replace or exceed one metre by one metre in size, they can pose a serious re risk.”
To understand what activities you can undertake this weekend, visit CFA’s ‘Can I or Can’t I?’ webpage.
Travel safety tips for this long weekend:
For travel safety tips, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ travel
Check the Fire Danger Rating by visiting www.cfa. vic.gov.au/ redangerratings
Download the VicEmergency app for real-time updates about emergencies across Victoria.
Victorians should also make sure they have access to more than one source of information in the event of an emergency, including:
ABC local radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News
The VicEmergency
App and website www. emergency.vic.gov.au
The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
Outdoor cooking tips:
Set up your barbecue, re pit, spit roast, pizza oven or smoker on a stable, nonammable surface with 3 metres of clear space around and above the re.
Never leave a re unattended and keep at least 10 litres of water or hose nearby.
Use water to fully extinguish it before walking away or going indoors.
Ensure re is lit in a properly constructed replace or in a trench at least 30cm deep.
Check for gas leaks on your barbecues by spraying soapy water on the connections and hoses. If there is a leak, bubbles will appear when you turn on the gas.
Never use your barbecue indoors, and ensure there is enough clearance from walls, fences, and other ammable items.
If you’re unable to extinguish the re safely, call triple zero (000).
Two men charged for Murphy Street extortion, arson investigation ongoing
POLICE have charged two Melbourne men following an alleged extortion and subsequent arson of a Murphy Street tobacco store in July 2023.
Police said detectives from Taskforce Lunar executed two search warrants at residential addresses in Doreen and Mickleham on Thursday which led to the arrests of a 23-year-old and 31-year-old men.
The taskforce released footage on Monday appealing for information in their hunt of an alleged standover man and co-o ender who threatened a female Wangaratta worker of the tobacco store on July 4, 2023.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
A 23-year-old Doreen man, who police will allege was the man captured in the vision of the incident, was charged with extortion with threat to destroy property, possess cannabis and fail to comply with direction to provide assistance.
He faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday a ernoon.
A 31-year-old Mickleham man, who police will allege was lming the video, was charged with 11
counts of drug possession (prescription drugs) and has been bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on May 27.
In the video released by police earlier in the week, two men entered the Murphy Street store in 2023 allegedly demanding the member of sta to close down the store immediately or it would be burnt down.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks from Taskforce Lunar said police believed the o enders came from the self-described ‘Iraqis from Melbourne’ criminal syndicate.
Det Insp Banks said the threats would have
been “terrifying” and “intimidating” for the victim.
Weeks later on July 27 at 12.45am, two men were caught exiting a white BMW, forcing entry into the same tobacco store.
An accelerant was poured, before the store was set alight and both men ed the scene.
Nobody was physically injured, but the store sustained signi cant damage during the incident.
Investigations into the arson of the store remain ongoing.
Police had linked the incident as part of an alleged dispute between criminal syndicates in con ict over
pro ts from the illicit tobacco market.
In that time, more than 130 tobacco stores across the state had been rebombed.
Police said detectives from Taskforce Lunar would like to thank media and members of the public who provided information following their appeal for public assistance on Monday of this week.
Anyone with any information about serious and organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a con dential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
www.thecentre.vic.edu.au
GOTCHA: Police say the suspected man depicted in this video of a Murphy Street extortion in 2023 as well as the man recording it have been caught.
Enjoy positive start to 2025
START the year in a positive way with a free weekly weight loss park class, kicking off on Monday, February 3 at 9.30am.
Designed for all ages and abilities, it will be conducted by an insured, newly-qualified and knowledgeable instructor on Barr Reserve Oval 1 (Bill O’Callaghan Oval).
Those taking part are advised to allow 90 minutes for the social and fun class, with a 10 minute chat before and after the 50 minute session.
For more information or to join, text or call Dani on 0467 494 024.
Helen Haines opens expressions of interest for round 9 of Indi Stronger Communities Programme
INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines is inviting expressions of interest for round nine of the Indi Stronger Communities Programme.
Open to community organisations and local governments, grants between $2500 and $20,000 are available for community projects.
Dr Haines said each year, the dedication and commitment of many local organisations to building a thriving community is recognised with funding to boost their local projects.
“Priority areas of focus
wangarattachronicle.com.au
for round nine of the programme include boosting tourism, supporting our veterans, people with disabilities and upgrading medical and sporting facilities,” she said.
Previous programme rounds have funded projects such as kitchen upgrades at the Euroa Citizens Band, refurbishments at the Bonegilla Hall, and the installation of shade sails at Tangambalanga Active Park.
“Seeing these projects brought to reality, and the lasting bene ts experienced by our communities has
been an extraordinary highlight of being Indi’s Independent MP,” Dr Haines said.
A panel comprised of representatives of local governments and community groups will assess the expressions of interest, prior to successful proponents being invited to make applications to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
More information and to submit an Expressions of Interest, please visit helenhaines.org/grants.
Expressions of Interest must be received by 5pm on Thursday, February 13.
Cap aims to curb fuel price fluctuation
By STEVE KELLY
FUEL prices will need to be publicly reported and stay the same for 24 hours under changes by the State Government to curb fuel price uctuation.
Its Fair Fuel Plan aims to make it compulsory for more than 1500 fuel retailers across the state to provide their pricing data in real time.
This data will then feed directly into a new fuel nder feature on the Service Victoria app, giving Victorians the opportunity to shop around for the best deal when they’re ready to ll up.
Owner of APCO Wangaratta and Wodonga Paul Armstrong said the measures would mainly be to monitor metro service stations which are more prone to price uctuations.
“In NSW and we have to update pricing all the time and they thought it was going to be it a whiz bang thing to make the punter have cheaper prices, but it didn’t really change anything,” he said.
“In the country I tend to nd that we don’t change our fuel prices as much and they’re much more stable.
“We don’t have the highs and the lows they do down in Melbourne.
“We don’t cycle like they do in Melbourne, like 40 cents up in a week and then all of a sudden they’re 40 cents down the following Tuesday.
“I think that’s what they’re trying to get rid of.”
Mr Armstrong said people want to get their fuel at a good price and that’s what APCO aims for.
“We’re always at the market edge in terms of pricing and we
always try to keep it fair and reasonable,” he said.
Currently, fuel price reporting in Victoria is voluntary and while commercial price reporting websites exist, the Service Victoria fuel nder will include every fuel provider, won’t be advertiser funded, and will never promote one outlet over the other.
Mr Armstrong said this could be more accurate as only operators of each service station would
be able to update their fuel prices.
The government said there is no intention to have a limit on a company reducing its fuel price.
New regulations and legislation will be required, and work is currently underway to determine an appropriate enforcement structure and penalties for fuel retailers.
The Service Victoria fuel nder will launch later this year.
Storm activity igniting power pole faults:
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POWER pole res across the rural city in recent days have been put down to frequent severe thunderstorms in and around the area over the past three weeks.
According to an AusNet spokesperson, the power company had received four reports of pole res in the area in recent days, including two in two days on Monday and Tuesday.
Monday’s power pole fire was contained on Greta Road near Laceby, with grass catching fire around the pole around 1:37pm.
On Tuesday emergency services arrived on Rowan Street around 10:50am to nd a transformer in ames on the power pole and worked quickly to contain it.
A customer of Linenhouse Outlet near the power pole re-
ported the incident a er they observed smoke coming from the transformer and another witness had to move quickly to move their car parked directly underneath the power pole. Power was reported lost in
both incidents for around an hour.
An AusNet spokesperson said these were not power pole res as such, but lightning arresters failing.
“During these recent storms
several of our lines and transformers were hit with lightning,” they said.
“The lightning strikes are absorbed by the lightning arresters… unfortunately lightning arresters can be weakened by these strikes and can later fail.
“When they fail, which may be days later, they usually blow clear of the device which can be mistaken for a pole re at the time.”
Wangaratta saw severe thunderstorms in the area on Sunday, January 12 and Wednesday, January 15, with Wednesday’s storm heavily impacting the southern parts of the rural city in towns along Snow Road.
If you see a power pole re caused by lightning arresters failing, call emergency services.
You can report new power faults and emergencies online www.ausnetservices.com.au/ outages/report-a-fault or on 13 17 99.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
ON THE MONEY: Motorists will have the security of knowing fuel prices 24 hours in advance via
government run fuel finder app. The Fair Fuel Plan aims to
fluctuation. PHOTO: Steve Kelly
GRANTS AVAILABLE: Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines is inviting expressions of interest for the next round of the Indi Stronger Communities Programme.
activity, according to AusNet.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Eyebrows raised over free dine out policy
By STEVE KELLY
INDI MP Helen Haines has canned the Federal Liberal Party’s fringe bene ts policy, a proposed tax deduction for business-related hospitality costs, she said makes it feel like its 1985 rather than 2025.
With the federal election looming to be held on or before May 17, an elected Dutton Coalition Government would cut red tape for small businesses by introducing a capped tax deduction of $20,000 for businessrelated meal and entertainment expenses.
Small businesses with a turnover of up to $10 million would be eligible and alcohol would be excluded from the policy.
However, Dr Haines said in her time as Indi MP she hasn’t had any requests for any such tax deduction.
“In all of my conversations with small business owners across Indi, including hospitality, a call for this type of tax break has never once been raised with me,” she said.
“Small business owners are focused on nding ways to increase their productivity and e ciency, and this policy does nothing to help them on that front.
“Indi has an abundance of hospitality businesses, many of them small business operators, and what they tell me is they
struggle to get workforce because of a lack of housing, and trying to pay overheads like energy bills and rent.
“This is where I’m focused and where the government and opposition should be focused too.”
Wangaratta Club general manager Daniel Peacock said any tax break for small business is welcomed, however, he doesn’t see that it will suddenly increase spending in hospitality venues.
“I believe small businesses that can get any tax relief through this policy won’t all of a sudden start spending more in our venues,” he said.
“I think that with current pressures on small businesses,
any savings will be absorbed by other continually growing costs and therefore provide very little to no bene t to our hospitality industry.”
If the Coalition Government wins o ce the measure will run for an initial two years and be exempt from Fringe Bene ts Tax.
Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton said there were dual bene ts to this policy.
“This is a win for the small business spending the money on their sta or clients, and a win for the hospitality venues who will see an increased spend in their businesses,” Mr Dutton said.
“It will help businesses recover from a horrible period
FREE LUNCH: The Liberal Party’s policy to bring back a tax cut for food and entertainment [minus alcohol] for small businesses is designed to inject money back into the hospitality sector. However, some have questioned the benefit it would have for the small business sector.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
under three years of Labor.
“Cafes, restaurants, clubs and pubs are the lifeblood of so many local economies around the country.
“Hospitality is a huge part of the economy and yet like so many businesses at the moment, they are hurting under Labor.
“A local co ee shop creates important local jobs, but they are also spending money buying supplies from other local businesses.
“Small business is in our DNA as Liberals and Nationals and we want to help those businesses survive Labor’s time in o ce and thrive when we get back into government.”
Reverse vending machine to open Friday
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
THE Wareena Park Reverse Vending Machine will be open for operation from Friday for the community to cash in their eligible drinking containers.
The machine was installed on Thursday last week as recycling company Visy look to bolster its presence of the State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme in Wangaratta since beginning in November 2023.
The machine will automatically count and sort the deposited containers and offer 10c refunds in the form of a Coles Supermarket voucher, an electronic funds transfer or as a donation to a charity.
Nearby residents have protested the machines installation at the Swan Street site saying the “installation by stealth” lacked transparency and raised concerns around its positioning, opening hours and noise disturbance in the area.
Residents were notified of the machine via a letter sent to them early last week, days prior t its installation.
The letter outlined the machine would be cleaned on a weekly basis and the initial placement of the machine was subject to a 12-month trial, at the end of which council would determine whether the reverse vending machine could continue to remain at its Swan Street location.
The machine will be in operation from 7am to 8pm daily.
Visy is the Zone Operator for the CDS Victoria North Zone and will establish over 245 refund points across the Loddon, Mallee, and Hume regions and the inner north and eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
“We’re expanding our network of refund points in the Rural City of Wangaratta to make recycling easy and rewarding for all.” said Visy general manager, Container Deposit Scheme, Tim O’Donnell.
The community can find their nearest refund point, and access their electronic refunds, through the CDS Vic North app for iOS or Android.
To find out more about Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme visit www.cdsvic.org.au
To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –
You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.
But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.
Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.
NHW announces garden grants for local kinders
SEVEN local kindergartens and early childhood centres are set to reap the bene ts from community garden grants, announced by Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW). Each has been awarded $1000, funded through the Victorian Department of Health’s Preventative Health Promotion program, aimed at supporting healthy eating initiatives to prevent chronic health conditions in the local community.
The grants are part of a broader e ort to encourage children from birth to 18 years to adopt healthy eating habits through nutrition education, healthier food options and community-based
initiatives that foster a positive relationship with food.
By targeting these foundational behaviours early, the program seeks to reduce the prevalence of chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues, promoting longterm health outcomes for children and young people.
Recipients include Wangaratta West Kindergarten, Wangaratta Children’s Services, Good Start Early Learning Centres in Moore Street and Williams Road, Christopher Robin Preschool Centre, Country Buddies Wangaratta and Whorouly Preschool.
The program has already made an impact, with Christo-
DIGGING DEEP: Wangaratta West Kindergarten has used their grant for expanding the garden and enhancing the worm farm to promote sustainable gardening practices.
pher Robin kinder using their grant to grow an abundance of the superfood, silverbeet. Their harvest has been
transformed into healthy chips and vegetable baskets for families, promoting healthy eating and fostering
a sense of community.
At Whorouly kinder, the grant enabled the purchase of a hand water pump for their water garden, a ectionately named ‘Whorouly Creek’.
The new pump allows multiple children to participate in watering activities together, encouraging teamwork and engagement.
With vegetables now thriving in the garden, the children are seeing the rewards of their e orts rsthand.
Meanwhile, Wangaratta West kinder has expanded its hydroponic herb garden, planted fruit trees such as lemons, mandarins and oranges, and enhanced the worm farm to promote sus-
DRIVE AND CYCLE SAFELY AS HOLIDAY SEASON ENDS
ROADSAFE North East is highlighting important drive and ride rules, so that motorists and cyclists can all enjoy the roads safely during the end of a busy summer holiday season.
Spokesperson for RoadSafe North East, Aaron Scales, said it’s always important to promote a mindset of shared respect between bike riders and motorists and particularly at holiday time, all road users need to behave as one community on the road.
“Bike riders have a right to be on the road and motorists should not be surprised, nor resentful of their presence,” he said.
“We strongly urge motorists to take care when they see a cyclist, slow down and when it’s safe, allow at least 1.5 metres between the cyclist and your vehicle when passing.”
A renewed focus on ‘Driver Distraction’ will be at the core of RoadSafe North East’s road safety awareness campaign, over the coming month.
The community road safety group is aiming to reactivate its messaging around mobile phone use by drivers.
Distracted drivers pose a major risk to other motorists, as well as vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians.
Concern about the high rates of
mobile phone usage by drivers and their attitudes towards these risky behaviours, has prompted RoadSafe North East to activate the Driver Distraction campaign right across the region.
“Multi-tasking has become second nature to many of us, with our busy modern lives, with mobile phones delivering news, entertainment and daily communication,” Mr Scales said.
“Unfortunately, for some this behaviour extends to when they are behind the wheel, which can lead to disastrous consequences.
“We know that drivers who look at their mobile phones, even for a few seconds, are much more likely to be involved in a crash, endangering themselves, the public and other road users.”
“Taking your eyes off the road to do another task, whether it be checking your phone, selecting music, even having a quick snack can result in a loss of concentration.
“The law states that drivers must be in proper control of their vehicle at all times, and there is increasing evidence of drivers being distracted.
“Watching screens instead of the road puts both drivers, passengers and other road users at considerable risk and may result in a heavy fine and loss of multiple demerit points.”
tainable gardening practices.
NHW congratulated all the grant recipients for their creativity and dedication to fostering thriving gardens and hands-on experiences for their communities.
NHW acting CEO Bernadette Hammond said the grants re ect NHW’s commitment to promoting health and supporting a healthy community.
“It’s wonderful to see local kindergartens and early childhood centres creating spaces where children can learn, grow, and connect with the natural world while also fostering healthy eating habits that support lifelong wellbeing,” Ms Hammond said.
ROADSAFE NORTH EAST DRIVING TIPS FOR MOBILE PHONES AND OTHER DEVICES
Observe these tips to stay safe on the road:
If your phone has an app or function that prevents distraction while driving, you can use that.
Consider putting your phone on silent and out of reach or turn it off.
Divert all calls to voicemail.
Pull over safely and park to make or receive a call.
Tell your family and friends not to call when you know you’ll be driving.
If you are using your phone hands free, warn callers you are driving and may have to end the call.
Don’t make calls in heavy traffic, poor road conditions or bad weather.
Never look up phone numbers.
Never read or send text messages.
Don’t use Smartwatches or other similar devices.
Remember, taking your eyes off the road for 2 seconds or more doubles your crash risk.
RoadSafe North East recognises a mobile phone can be important in an emergency.
If you need to use your mobile phone to call for help, stop and park safely where you will not endanger yourself or other road users.
PHOTO: Lisa Fotios
Be inspired and equipped to support young people
A TRANSFORMATIVE workshop designed to inspire and equip individuals with the tools to better support the young people in their lives will be held by the Centre Against Violence, in collaboration with The Man Cave.
This unique and impactful event is completely free, thanks to the generous support of the Into Our Hands Foundation and Give Wangaratta and is open to everyone aged 18 and over.
The SpeakEasy Workshop is on Monday, February 24 from 6pm to 8pm at Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.
The SpeakEasy program, developed by The Man Cave and endorsed by Movember, is an engaging 90-minute session focused on the power of authentic conversations.
Expert facilitators will guide attendees through an interactive experience, teaching proven practices to help build meaningful connections and create a culture of openness and inclusivity.
This is a valuable opportunity for parents, educators, coaches, and community leaders who are passionate about making a di erence in
the lives of young people.
Steve Manning, senior football coach of the North Wangaratta Football and Netball Club and a dedicated TAFE teacher, shared his thoughts on the importance of initiatives like this.
“I believe we can make a di erence. I believe it’s time to act. We can’t stand for it anymore. We need to make sure that women and girls in our community know that they matter,” he said.
“Last year, our club publicly made a stand against family violence.
“The response we got within our community was overwhelming.
“The fact that we have started the conversation among many sporting clubs and groups in the area is a huge step forward towards making long-term cultural change.”
Jaime Chubb, CEO of the Centre Against Violence, also emphasised the critical role of community involvement.
“Great messaging and positive role models are key to guiding our teens and empowering them to make healthy and safe choices,” she said.
“When we work together as a community, we have a greater impact, creating a supportive, inclusive, and kind environment where everyone is valued.
“The SpeakEasy workshop aligns with these values by equipping attendees with essential skills.
“Participants will learn how to engage in more open and supportive conversations that strengthen relationships and create understanding, build a stronger sense of community and connection, and promote mental health and wellbeing through proactive leadership.
“Together we can continue the conversation and work towards a future where every individual feels valued and supported.”
To book your spot visit https://events.humanitix. com/au_centre-against-violence_speakeasy-24-02-2025 or email media@cav.org.au for more details.
The community is also invited to #Join Team CAV at the upcoming Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Run.
Go to our webpage for more details at www.centreagainstviolence.org.au
PROMOTING POSITIVE CULTURE: Jaime Chubb, CEO of the Centre Against Violence and North Wangaratta senior coach Steve Manning encourage community members to come along to an extremely worthwhile workshop.
Australia Day –worth celebrating
AUSTRALIA Day and its approaching national holiday weekend will see a new Australian of the Year recipient announced by the Prime Minister, along with Senior Australian, Junior Australian, and Local Hero of Australia awards.
Closer to home regional and local Australia Day Awards will be featured by our council to recognise and celebrate a range of local community contributors.
For all this Australia Day has in recent years been questioned as a day of celebration.
Federal, state and some councils have been ambivalent, tending to side with minority groups’ sentiments around the debate.
This is not just a rejection of the date but a lack of recognition of what has been achieved by this relatively young country, a foundation from which set a course based on colonisation, but with democracy and the rule of law, and shaped by immigration and opportunity.
While the date of Australia Day January 26 continues to be debated, the question of citizenship ceremonies on the day can be separated from the issue of whether it is the best date to recognise our nationhood.
As with the indigenously inspired Welcome to Country, our new countrymen and women who have chosen to embrace Australia by becoming citizens, are welcomed, and embraced into an increasingly multicultural country.
A recent survey by the Institute of Public Affairs has shown support for celebrating Australia Day on January 26 has increased to 69 per cent of Australians; a majority of age groups also support the day.
Without denying the special place for our Indigenous First Peoples, their culture and future wellbeing, Australia’s national day whatever the date, needs to be more collectively celebrated for the country’s cultural, geographical and historical threads and achievements, that offers common values and a future worth preserving and living.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
FACEBOOK users this week commented on a crash at the Aldi carpark on Reid Street.
• Tim Mortimer: Bryce Mortimer Tayla Russo It needs to be mandatory that anyone over the age of 60 has to take a license test every 18 months.
• Geoff Hogan: Tim Mortimer good luck trying to get Chris Mortimer to comply with this.
• Jan Dekker: Tim Mortimer it’s okay. But based
from some of the news we get, most vehicular accidents are from people below 60.
• Greta Westra: Jan Dekker based on some of the news we see, it’s 60 over that run into shop fronts!
• Kim Winnell: Tim Mortimer and so when you reach the age of 60 you’ll be compliant in the tests.
• Wayne Anderson: Oh to be young again and without fault.
• Donna Henshall Sacco: There was no menace in this
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
post only concern and l have to say l totally agree 60+ should do a retest
• David Anderson: Adam Douglas ol’mate must of thought it was a drive thru !!
• Brett Wyatt: Insured won’t cover that off road drive
• Tracy Harper: It can happen to anyone.. none of us are perfect.. we make mistakes… not so long ago I witnessed a young lady get her heel stuck and she couldn’t lift if off the brake.. hence rear
ended another vehicle.. Facebook users also commented on a pair of power poles which caught fire in the space of two days within the rural city.
• Tim O’Neill: Power poles and wires should be banned... to much of a fire risk (note sarcasm aimed at the anti solar power crowd)
• Tony S Carter: Tim O’Neill oof careful Linda will be sending you links to different studies that support her anti solar religion.
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
15,141
A contemporary take on the Ten Commandments
AT a recent worship service, one of our lay-preachers presented this contemporary expression of the Ten Commandments.
I believe it is applicable to all of us.
In this new year, let us all endeavour to practise them.
1.Thou shalt be amazed by the good in people.
2.Thou shalt avoid judgement of others.
3.Thou shalt not injure others with sarcasm. .
4.Thou shalt not jump to conclusions..
5.Thou shalt attend to details in serving others.
6.Thou shalt make realistic promises and keep them.
7.Thou shalt have clear priorities for thy time and attention, for thy body, mind and heart, and thou shalt act on these priorities.
8.Thou shalt wait 24 hours before doing or saying anything negative about another person.
9.Thou shalt not say ‘yes’ when thou meanest ‘no’.
10.Thou shalt ask before acting.
John and Helen van Riet, South Wangaratta
Help preserve some Eldorado history
ST Jude’s Church at Eldorado was built in 1870 when the community of 4000 was looking towards an a uent future with proceeds of gold and tin mining.
It’s particularly pleasing appearance is due to the local granite of which it is built and the ornamental timber porch and bell-cote, probably added at a later date.
A very steep, very high slate roof is testament to the hard and dangerous work it must have been which has daunted present day plumbers who have been invited to quote for repairs.
The community helped us generously with repairs, along with a grant from Heritage Victoria in 2007.
But “time like an ever rolling stream bears all its sons away“ and the once thriving and generous congregation of families who lovingly cooked for endless cake stall fundraisers to make regular repairs to the church have now gone.
Many of these families may have been descendants of the hard working folk who built the church.
We are asking for your help again to replace nails, loosened by the elements, that have pulled out of the timber batons covering the slate when the iron roof was added.
A section of ridge capping needs replacing and birds and possums are nesting in the bell-cote.
We have received several quotes to do the work.
We have some funds carefully preserved by the ladies of the guild who are no longer with us; however we hope to fundraise for about $6000 still needed to accept the best quote.
Do we care for our old buildings and do they matter to the community?
If you would like to donate or assist with the project in some way, contact Jenny Anderson at rutherglenlamb@gmail.com
Jenny Anderson, Rutherglen
WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
FACEBOOK users this week commented on nearby residents who have protested the new installation of a reverse vending machine at the Wareena Park Swan Street carpark.
• Michelle Burns: Seems like a good spot to me. Not sure what the problem is
• Shane Kenny: Entitled to express their opinion, like everyone else here
• Ronan Holdsworth Gallery: At least landscape the thing so it looks better than an oversized
skip bin. Does this mean more trucks up Swan st?? Rural City of Wangaratta
• Tim Cole-Jarred: Always someone wanting to whinge about something i think it’s awesome!
• Ricky Davern: Tony Davidson get your cans down there bro
• Leslie Matthews: Seriously, these people need to get a life. With any number of real social issues, including war, happening elsewhere in the world all they have to complain about is a
reverse vending machine?
• Kim Winnell: I don’t understand. Why did it not be placed in an industrial area.
• Tim O’Neill: Bet you they also complain when their neighbours kids are to loud in the backyard
• Mick Johnston: They don’t need consultation they just need to mind their own business
• Jack Carruthers: It is well away from houses and quite small. Jog on.
• Toddy H Rees: Typical Boomer response
Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.
Facebook users also commented on warnings of battery fires breaking out in garbage, recycling trucks.
• Craig McDonald: They are not meant to go in the general rubbish
• Hanny Bongers: Maybe they should do what they do in the Netherlands. Have a bin at the supermarket to deposit batteries. As far as I know Aldi have one instore.
• Janet Wigg: Hanny Bongers other supermarkets also have them.
X USERS this week tweeted about the pronunciation of Wangaratta, an inclusion for one of the biggest country footy stories since 2000 and work trips to Wangaratta.
S€ЙТЯЧ @Sentry1161
Dear @Channel10AU
Please have your female evening news reader learn the correct names of towns in northern Victoria and on the border. It’s “Wangaratta” NOT “Warrangatta” as just one of many examples!
Steve Browne @browneboysteve5
Wangaratta being stripped of Premiership would have to be up there
@MagicAndPasta
No rest for the wicked…. Work trips already booked for Wangaratta (yay!), Hobart in March and May, SA in Feb and April, and likely Darwin for June - so far. Love having teams across 4 states and being out and about with them at our events. Let’s go
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
15,141
It’s now easier to apply for teaching jobs. Apply once and be considered for any role that suits your preferences.
Our future is in great hands!
The 2025 Youth Council has convened with young people from across the municipality
The Youth Council will work together on issues affecting local youth, help organise events, and provide a voice to young people in our community.
Keeping kids safe in the water
By SIMONE KERWIN
FORTY local youngsters have spent the rst half of this week building their water safety knowledge at Sydney Beach, as part of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s Bush Nippers program.
Conducted by WSAC for the second consecutive year in partnership with Life Saving Victoria, the three-day program is a rural adaptation of the traditional coastal Nippers education program.
Designed for primary school-aged children, it aims to create ‘everyday lifesavers’ by building the youngsters’ water safety knowledge and skills in open water environments, to help them make safe aquatic-related decisions while enjoying their local waterways.
While last year’s program was relocated to WSAC’s outdoor pool due to river ooding in the wake of storms, ideal conditions ensured this week’s sessions, on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, were able to be held in and on the banks of Wangaratta’s central and picturesque Sydney Beach.
“The kids have loved it; you could feel their excitement, as well as the support from parents,” WSAC programs team leader Aaron Alexander said.
“Because we live in an area where there are lots of rivers and creeks, it’s so important that we bring a program like this to children, in collaboration with Life Saving Victoria.
“It’s a good thing to expose kids to the environment so they aware of any potential dangers and know how to be safe.
“Most kids go swimming locally, and need to be aware, perhaps if they are on a boat, of safety aspects such as life
jackets, and especially what to do in an emergency.
“They are taught what to do to keep themselves safe, and to help others.”
Adelle Doxey of Wangaratta was among the parents and carers watching the progress of Tuesday morning’s session, where her son William (7) was a participant.
“We came last year and he loved it, so he wanted to come again; he’s been really looking forward to it,” Adelle said.
“I think it’s really important for them to know these
safety skills, which are life skills.
“Last year the river was high and they held the program at the pool, so that taught them that even with instructors you have to be careful around the river.
“We do some kayaking on the river near here, so it gives him the knowledge and me the peace of mind that he’s aware of these safety aspects.”
WSAC has plans to expand the Bush Nippers initiative by o ering it to schools, with an expression of interest having been issued for term one.
BEING PREPARED: Instructors Declan O’Sullivan and Nicki Lewis talk water conditions with Bush Nippers participants.
PHOTO: Grace Kerwin
TALKING SAFETY: Bush Nippers, a rural inland adaptation of the coastal Nippers education program, was held for the second time in Wangaratta this week, encouraging primary schoolers to build their lifesaving skills in open water environments. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
READY TO LEARN: Instructors Declan O’Sullivan and Chantelle Dickson (back) with Bush Nippers participants Amelia Halloran, William Doxey and Jensen Porche as they got their session under way at Sydney Beach on Tuesday morning.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
SMILE SAYS IT ALL: Amelia Halloran enjoyed her time in the Ovens River on Tuesday, as part of the Bush Nippers program conducted by the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
SKILLS FOR LIFE: Jensen Porche was among the youngsters gaining water safety knowledge and skills - and having plenty of fun - during the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s Bush Nippers program conducted at Sydney Beach this week.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
A familiar face in an unfamiliar role
BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au
KELLIE Grant is a familiar face to North East theatre lovers.
She has appeared on stage in countless productions for more than three decades, along with stints at directing and working backstage, mostly with Wangaratta Players.
Kellie makes a welcome return to the boards in Wangaratta Players’ upcoming production of Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery playing descendant Sir Henry Baskerville, a Texan who is next in line to the Baskerville fortune after the grisly demise of several of his ancestors, victims of the infamous Hound of the Baskervilles.
How’s it feel to be back on stage at the Stage Door?
It is great to be back at the Stage Door; it’s like a second home for us.
“My last show was working back stage for Clarissa & Pip, but in terms of on stage, my last role was about five or so years ago when I played Death in Terry Pratchett’s Mort.”
What attracted you to the role, and did you have your eye on another part?
“Sometimes I do have my eye on a role, though I try to be really open to anything.
“With Baskerville I didn’t have any clue, I just thought it sounded fun and the idea of playing lots of different characters was appealing.
“Sir Henry came to me out of left field! He has been a lot of fun.
You seem to have embraced the character
and accent of Henry Baskerville with open arms; are you a big American Western fan?
“You know, I’m probably a fan of modern Western. I loved the TV series & film of Firefly (think Western in space), and films like No Country for Old Men and the remake of True Grit.
“There are definitely scenes in Baskerville where
I am channeling my inner Mal Reynolds or Clint Eastwood, complete with internal soundtrack!
Have you played an American in any other role?
“I have played quite a lot of Americans, from all over the place. I love doing accents from the Deep South (love Southern Gothic fiction), New York and Boston. This is my first Texan and
I have played quite a lot of Americans, from all over the place. I love doing accents from the Deep South (love Southern Gothic fiction), New York and Boston. This is my first Texan and my first time playing the romantic hero, so thank goodness for Matthew McConaughey showing me the way.
Renowned North East actress Kellie Grant sits down for a Q&A with Shane Douthie
my first time playing the romantic hero, so thank goodness for Matthew McConaughey showing me the way.”
Y ou have one of the more steadfast characters in the play, has it been difficult to remain on point with the melodrama and hilarity going on around you?
“It can be a tough balancing act. You have to rein in
some of the instinct to contribute to the mayhem, but also help maintain the high energy that melodrama requires. It can be easy to let that drop when you are playing it straight, but it is so essential that you don’t.
One of the great things with Baskerville is that I have awesome scene partners like Bec Carta (Dr Watson). We just clicked from the get
go and it has been a lot of fun.”
What do you think will appeal to the audiences about this production?
“I love how much we poke fun at theatre and ourselves. We have a really good time and I think the audience will love being along for the wild ride.”
It’s been a big commitment for you to do this show; what makes you do it?
“It has been huge, especially physically, but I think what brings me back is just my love of storytelling and figuring out what makes people tick. Artistic creativity is such an important part of my life. I could never be without it.”
Wangaratta Players Inc will present the Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville - A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, at the Stage Door Studio from February 7 to 23.
Don’t miss this hilarious, fast-paced adventure about everyone’s favourite detective duo Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson as they endeavour to crack the mystery of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” before a family curse dooms its newest heir.
Shows will be held on February 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7.30pm and on February 16 and 23 at 2pm with tickets available now at trybooking.
Orange Door changes in Benalla absorbed
By STEVE KELLY
A STATE Government department has defended itself following criticism from Nationals MP Annabelle Cleeland connected to The Orange Door services in the region.
Ms Cleeland made recent claims about the level of accessibility to The Orange Door services, speci cally in Benalla and Seymour.
The Orange Door helps people who are experiencing family violence or need support with the care and wellbeing of children and young people.
Ms Cleeland, who is MP for Euroa electorate, said The Orange Door family violence centres across Victoria were closed for a combined 39 days in the last year due to sta shortages, resulting in delays for people trying to access crucial support services.
She also highlighted the closure of the Benalla Community Services Hub at the end of 2024 and Seymour’s The Orange Door being closed for a total of ve days in the past year.
“The Allan Labor Government has failed to support one of our state’s most crucial services at a time when we can least a ord it,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I fear the neglect of family violence services in our community is leaving vulnerable families without the critical support they need during their darkest moments.”
However, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing con rmed that no Orange Door primary sites were closed during 2023-24. It reported that the closure of the Benalla Community Hub was a decision by lead tenant NESAY and there were no Orange Door staff based at the Benalla
Community Services Hub.
“The hub provided a space where community members could use a private room with a phone and be connected through to an Orange Door and speak directly to a worker,” the department advised.
“Benalla residents can still
access support by phoning
The Orange Door on 1800 271 157 or they can visit The Orange Door Ovens Murray, based in Wangaratta, 30 minutes away.
“Alternatively, The Orange Door sta can travel to meet them at a convenient location in Benalla - this could be
the Benalla Community Services Hub, the police station or the hospital.
“The Orange Door network operates during business hours, Monday to Friday (closed public holidays) and is accessible via telephone, email and in person at primary sites and access points.”
A department spokesperson said all women and children in Victoria have the right to live safely, freely and without fear of family violence.
“The Orange Door network is dedicated to ensuring that those who are experiencing violence or who need help with their children get the support they need, where and when they need it,” the spokesperson said.
“Victorian Government investment in supporting family violence victim survivors includes the rollout of our statewide Orange Door Network to more than 60 locations, which have helped more than half a million Victorians including more than 200,000 children.
“Since its opening in August 2021, The Orange Door Ovens Murray has provided support to more than 13,500 people, including more than 5900 children.”
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
SURVIVOR: Kellie Grant as Texan heir to the Baskerville fortune Sir Henry Baskerville.
PHOTO: Shane Douthie
Year of the Snake - The Red-bellied Black
By MERLIN TZAROS
Merlin, aged 16, has had a keen interest in reptiles for several years and has contributed this week’s article.
IN the Chinese horoscope, 2025 marks the arrival of the Year of the Snake, symbolising growth
and wisdom with an emphasis on patience and planning.
The Red-bellied Black Snake, along with most other predatory reptiles, is a master of patience
and planning when it comes to their survival as it uses an array of amazing adaptations that they have evolved and refined over countless millennia. One of the most distinctive features of a snake is its forked, constantly flickering tongue.
This unique behaviour plays a crucial role in how snakes sense
their environment, a process known as chemoreception.
By flicking their tongue, snakes gather airborne chemical particles from the air, which helps them ‘taste’ the environment around them.
This ability is not limited to snakes alone; other reptiles, such as goannas, also utilise chemoreception in a similar way, flicking their forked tongues to gather important chemical information.
The forked structure of the tongue is key to the snake’s ability to detect and interpret chemical gradients.
When the snake flicks its tongue into the air, each fork picks up different amounts of chemical particles.
The snake can then compare the intensity of the chemicals on each fork to determine the direction from which the scent is coming.
This allows the snake to effectively ‘smell’ in three dimensions, identifying the source of a scent with remarkable precision.
Once the snake retracts its
tongue, it deposits the gathered chemical particles into a specialised organ in the roof of its mouth called the Jacobsen’s organ. This organ is dedicated to processing chemical signals and provides the snake with vital information about its surroundings.
By interpreting these chemical signals, the snake can detect potential prey, locate mates, or sense the presence of predators, making it an essential tool for survival.
In addition to its role in hunting and mating, chemoreception helps snakes navigate complex environments and avoid danger.
This highly specialised sensory system allows snakes to make split-second decisions, ensuring they remain successful hunters and protect themselves from threats in their natural habitats.
So, next time you are fortunate enough to observe a snake (from a safe and comfortable distance of course!), look for the flickering tongue and think about the remarkable processes going through the snake’s body.
A FAMIAR FACE: A Red-bellied Black Snake – a local venomous species, foraging on the forest floor, scenting for prey such as small frogs and lizards. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)
Diocese fondly recalls former bishop’s ministry
BISHOP Keith Rayner, the h Bishop of the Wangaratta Anglican Diocese, passed away on Sunday, January 12, aged 95.
Bishop Rayner became the youngest bishop to be appointed in the Australian Anglican Church when he was selected at the age of 39 to come to Wangaratta, where he served between 1969 and 1975.
His appointment in Wangaratta followed his ordination in the Diocese of Brisbane in 1953, curacies at Auchenower and Dalby, and incumbencies at the Brisbane
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
parishes of Sunnybank and Wynnum.
Following his time locally, he served as Archbishop of Adelaide from 1975 until 1990 and was installed as Archbishop of Melbourne in 1990, where he ministered until he retired on his 70th birthday in 1999.
Bishop Rayner was Primate from 1991 until his retirement, and was a key
gure in the eventual ordination of the rst women to the priesthood in Australia.
The Very Reverend Neil Hicks, current Vicar of the Holy Trinity Parish and Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral Wangaratta, said he had heard over the last couple of weeks from a number of people in the diocese who recalled their memories of Bishop Rayner during his time in the city.
“For some, he was their con rming bishop, and many others remembered him fondly,” he said.
Rev Hicks said he had trained in Adelaide when Bishop Rayner was Archbishop, and was later in Melbourne for part of his time as Archbishop there.
He said Bishop Rayner was known to approach decisions “with great thought, research and prayer”.
“He did an enormous amount of work putting the necessary steps in place so that more people would come along on the journey of any changes made,” he said.
“When he retired from Melbourne, the general secretary of General Synod read out a list of acts of synod Bishop Keith had been involved in, and it was as long as your arm.”
In addition to the ordination of women, these included making the way clear for divorced people to be remarried in the church.
“He never forgot a name; I remember as a student meeting him at a church service,
and he always remembered me a er that one meetinghe was the same with everybody,” Rev Hicks said.
He said it was no surprise that an article in the Sydney Morning Herald following his passing had described Bishop Rayner as “one of the most significant Australian church leaders of the 20th century”.
The 11th and current Bishop of Wangaratta, Clarence Bester, met his predecessor in August last year, and also recalled the interaction fondly.
Bishop Rayner will be farewelled at St Peter’s Anglican Cathedral in Adelaide on Monday, February 3.
FIVE AND ELEVEN: Bishop Keith Rayner, the diocese’s fi h bishop, met 11th and current Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester in Adelaide in August last year.
DIOCESAN LEADER: THIS R. HANNAFORD PORTRAIT OF BISHOP KEITH RAYNER HANGS IN THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF WANGARATTA REGISTRY IN OVENS STREET.
WANGARATTA
BLUE RIBBON WEANER SALE
Friday 31st January 2025 – Commencing @ 9am
GROWN STEERS
DG & KL DALY, PINE MOUNTAIN VIC
60 Simmental X Angus Steers, 15-16 mths, Hicks & Scotts Angus Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
SIMPSON STYLES, SANDY CREEK VIC
31 Angus Steers, 15-16 mths, Scotts Bld, Vacc 2x 5in1, Ivomec PO, VB, Weaned, GF
BOROUGH NOMS, CHESNEY VALE VIC
30 Angus Steers, 12-13 mths, Fernhill Bld, VB, Weaned, GF LIVESTOCK PASTORAL, UNDERA VIC
20 Angus Steers, 12-13 mths, Tibooburra Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
P SEYMOUR, KANCOONA VIC
16 Angus Steers, 14-15 mths, Raff Bld, VB, Weaned, GF JRM CONROY, SPRINGHURST VIC
11 Shorthorn Steers, 16-17 mths, Sprys Bld, Cydectin 2/1, Vacc 7in1, VB, Weaned
G ELLIS, MYRRHEE VIC
4 Speckle Park Steers, 20 mths, VB, Weaned, GF MG NEILSON, SANDY CREEK VIC
6 Angus Steers, 13 mths, Alpine Bld, Vetmec LA Long Acting, 2x Websters 5in1, B2, VB, Weaned, GF
B RAMSEY, LIMA SOUTH VIC
5 Charolais X Steers, 17-18 mths
B HARVEY, MERTON VIC
4 Angus Steers, 14-15 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
J RYAN, MANSFIELD VIC
2 Angus Steers, 14-15 mths, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF ANGUS STEERS
KENYA PASTORAL, BROCKLESBY NSW
175 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Moogenilla Bld, Vacc 3x 5in1, Multimin, VB, Weaned, GF
AM DOBSON & SON, ACHERON VIC
100 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Connamara & Banquet Bld, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF AW & K BAILEY, TATONG VIC
65 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Rennylea Bld, Drenched Moxistar, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF BERDUE PASTORAL, BUXTON VIC
60 Angus Steers, 10 mths, TeMania Bld, Vacc 2x 7in1, Multimin, B12, Cydectin Platinum, Easy Dose, VB, Weaned, GF DAVILAK PASTORAL CO, MANSFIELD VIC
50 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Glendaloch Bld, Vetmec Inj, Lev PO, Vacc 3x 5in1, Selovin LA, Bovi Shield, VB, Weaned, GF AD & DS MCMILLAN, KILFEERA VIC
50 Angus Steers, 10 mths, Reiland & Alpine Bld, Fasitak, Vacc 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF
J & E MCNAMARA, JINGELLIC NSW
50 Angus Steers, 7-8 mths, Ardrossan & Scotts Bld, VB, Weaned, GF FARNLEY, CHESNEY VALE VIC
50 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Cornerstone & Tibooburra Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
G NICOL, EAST WANGARATTA VIC
50 Angus Steers, 10 mths, Alpine Bld, Drenched Starmex, Vacc 2x 5in1, Easydose PO, VB, Weaned, GF MT FRESH LIVESTOCK, BONNIE DOON VIC
45 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Kelly Bld, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF KJ & RL RYDER, TAWONGA VIC
34 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Burnima Bld, Cydectin, Ultravac 7in1, VB, GF BRAVEHEART ANGUS, GAPSTED VIC
31 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Banquet Bld, Cydectin Platinum, Vacc 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF A/c Table Top Angus, Table Top NSW
30 Angus Steers, 6 mths, Pure Table Top Bld, Vacc 5in1, +B12, Drenched Easy Dose, VB, Weaned, GF TUMBLING T “EURUGABAH STN” NSW
30 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF N DEWAR
30 Angus Steers, 10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF M BROWN, GOOMALIBEE VIC
26 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, VB, Weaned, GF LANEWAY LIVESTOCK, SAMERIA VIC
25 Angus Steers, 8-10 mths, Allunga Bld, Cydectin, Ultravac & Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF P & K DELMASTRO, BOBINAWARRAH VIC
25 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Fernhill & Jarobee Bld, Vacc 3x 5in1, Drenched Moxistar, VB, Weaned, GF GOONAN BROS, DEDERANG VIC
24 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, VB, GF D & M SHULZ, TARRAWINGEE VIC
23 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Jarobee Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
MG NEILSON, SANDY CREEK VIC
22 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Alpine Bld, Vetmec LA Long Acting, 2x Websters 5in1, B2, VB, Weaned, GF
PHILLIP ROSS PROPERTY INVESTMENTS PTY LTD, MYRRHEE VIC
20 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Ultravax 7in1 incl Booster, VB, Weaned, GF
DAVID RYDER, TAWONGA VIC
20 Angus Steers, 11-12 mths, Scotts Bld, VB, GF BRUMBY HILLS, EVERTON VIC
20 Angus Steers, 6 mths, Fernhill Bld, VB, Weaned, GF G & M MCDONALD, WANGANDARY VIC
18 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, VB, Weaned, GF A & J COPE, BYAWARTHA VIC
15 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Cornerstone Bld, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF NJ & NJ FLEMING, BEECHWORTH VIC
13 Angus Steers, 10 mths, Stoney Point Bld, VB, Weaned, GF EDE FAMILY TRIUST, TARRAWINGEE VIC
13 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Jarobee Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF WILLANDRA, YACKANDANDAH VIC
12 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF NATHAN HILL, MOLYULLAH VIC
12 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, VB, Weaned, GF ARCADIA, MANSFIELD VIC
11 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, GF COMRIE CATTLE, GUNDAGAI NSW
10 Angus Steers, 11-12 mths, Norwood Bld, VB, GF FFS FARMING PTY LTD, SPRINGHURST VIC
10 Angus Steers, 10-12 mths, TeMania Bld, VB, Weaned FERNVALE, TALLANGATTA VIC
10 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Vacc 3x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF RODGERS LANE, DEDERANG VIC
10 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Scotts Bld, VB, Weaned, GF BIG VALLEY BEEF, POREPUNKAH VIC
10 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Brewer Beef Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, GF
G & I WARREN, OXLEY VIC
10 Angus Steers
EJ WOOD, SAMARIA VIC
9 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, Cydectin 26/1, VB, Weaned, GF
M & J VAINS, LURG VIC
9 Angus Steers, 9-12 mths, Jarobee Bld, VB, Weaned, GF HOMELEIGH HOLDINGS, MOLYULLAH VIC
9 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, VB, Weaned, GF NARELL BROWN, STAGHORN FLAT VIC
8 Angus Steers, 10-11 mths, Rennylea Bld, VB, GF F PERRIN, MANSFIELD VIC
6 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Barragunda Bld, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, Multimin & Incarcerate, VB, Weaned, GF
D ROBINSON, MANSFIELD VIC
5 Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, GF
F CAMERON, MANSFIELD VIC
4 Angus Steers, 8-9 mths, Alpine Bld, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, Multimin, Incarcerate & Selovin LA, VB, GF
HEREFORD & BLACK BALDY STEERS
FERNVALE, TALLANGATTA VIC
20 Angus X Hereford Steers, 10-11 mths, Vacc 3x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
M & L MURTAGH, CHESTUNT VIC
20 Angus X Hereford Steers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
MA MCFADDEN, KILFEERA VIC
20 Hereford Steers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
RIGONI CO, MT BEAUTY VIC
10 Hereford Steers, 9-10 mths, Mawarra Hereford Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
BIG VALLEY BEEF, POREPUNKAH VIC
10 Black Baldy Steers, 10-11 mths, Brewer Beef Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, GF
S & P MURTAGH, MUDGEGONGF VIC
10 Hereford Steers, 10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
P ROTHWELL, SMOKO VIC
9 Angus X Hereford Steers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
For further information & photos please go to www.theherdonline.com.au to view & Bid online please register at www.auctionsplus.com.au
RIGONI CO, MT BEAUTY VIC
7 Angus X Hereford Steers, 9-10 mths, Table Top Angus & Mawarra Hereford Bld, VB, Weaned, GF P & A GRIFFEN, MANSFIELD VIC
6 Hereford Steers, 10-11 mths, Alandale Cows, Koanui Layer Bull, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
OTHER STEERS
BARRABOOL, MUDGEGONGA VIC
6 Charolais X Angus Steers, 8-9 mths, Rangan Bld, VB, GF AUTUMN MOON, ACHERON VIC
45 Red Angus Steers, 9-10 mths, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
RG MCCALL & SONS “MIA MIA” DAYSDALE VIC
20 Simmental X Steers, 9-10 mths, Bywong Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
GROWN HEIFERS
A & K BRYANT, TALLANGATTA VIC
44 Angus Heifers, 18-20 mths, Dunoon & Alpine Angus Bld, Ex Allonby Angus, Weaned S BINNIE, DEVINISH VIC
30 Angus Heifers, 12-14 mths, Weaned, GF FFS FARMING PTY LTD, SPRINGHURST VIC
10 Charolais X Angus Heifers, 14-16 mths, Kenmere Bld, VB, Weaned MURRAKA PASTORAL CO “LANGLEY PARK” CORNISHTOWN VIC
10 Black Baldy Heifers, 16-17 mths, Fernhill Bld, VB, GF K & V MARSHALL, MANSFIELD VIC
6 Black Baldy Heifers, 18-20 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
ANGUS HEFIERS
ARULUEN ANGUS, DOCKER VIC
30 Angus Heifers, 11 mths, Aruluen Bld, VB, Weaned, GF M BROWN, GOOMALIBEE VIC
26 Angus Heifers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, VB, Weaned, GF AD & DS MCMILLAN, KILFEERA VIC
25 Angus Heifers, 10 mths, Reiland & Alpine Bld, Fasitak, Vacc 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF STAMLEA, LIMA VIC
20 Angus Heifers, 10-11 mths, AI Bred, Sterling Pacific, Texus Top Gun, Dectomax, Ivomec Plus, Vacc 2x 5in1, Selovin LA, VB, Weaned, GF RAHEEN PARTNERSHIP, MANSFIELD VIC
15 Angus Heifers, 10-11 mths, Kunuma, Wilgunya, Muwurra Bld, Cydectin Platinum, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, Weaned, GF ARCADIA, MANSFIELD VIC
11 Angus Heifers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, VB, GF NATHAN HILL, MOLYULLAH VIC
9 Angus Heifers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, VB, Weaned, GF HOMELEIGH HOLDINGS, MOLYULLAH VIC
8 Angus Heifers, 10-11 mths, Alpine Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
HEREFORD & BLACK BALDY HEIFERS
FERNVALE, TALLANGATTA VIC
25 Angus X Hereford Heifers, 10-11 mths, Vacc 3x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF
MA MCFADDEN, KILFEERA VIC
20 Hereford Heifers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF
M & L MURTAGH, CHESTUNT VIC
15 Angus X Hereford Heifers, 9-10 mths, Fernhill Bld, Drenched Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, Weaned, GF BIG VALLEY BEEF, POREPUNKAH VIC
10 Black Baldy Heifers, 10-11 mths, Brewer Beef Bld, Drenched, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 5in1, VB, GF
S & P MURTAGH, MUDGEGONGA VIC
10 Hereford Heifers, 10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF P ROTHWELL, SMOKO VIC
9 Angus X Hereford Heifers, 9-10 mths, VB, Weaned, GF RIGONI CO, MT BEAUTY VIC
5 Angus X Hereford Heifers, 9-10 mths, Table Top Angus & Mawarra Hereford Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
OTHER HEIFERS
BARRABOOL, MUDGEGONGA VIC
11 Charolais X Angus Heifers, 8-9 mths, Rangan Bld, VB, GF RG
MCCALL & SONS “MIA MIA” DAYSDALE VIC
20 Simmental X Heifers, 9-10 mths, Bywong Bld, VB, Weaned, GF
F CAMERON, MANSFIELD VIC
1 Speckle Park Heifer, 8-9 mths, Alpine Angus Bld, Cydectin, Vacc 2x 7in1, Multimin, Incarcerate & Selovin LA, VB, GF
Make sure your pets are part of the plan
CFA and RSPCA Victoria are urging residents to include pets in their bush re survival plans, amid the signi cant re activity already impacting Victoria this summer.
Having bedding, food, and water ready to go for your furry friend could save valuable time in the event of a re.
CFA Chief O cer Jason He ernan emphasised the importance of being ready to leave early on high-risk bushre days.
“While you should always prioritise your own safety ahead of your pets, your bushre plan isn’t fully complete unless it accounts for them,” he said.
“When creating a plan, consider what your pets will eat and drink, how you will transport them, and where you are taking them.
“Once you have your kit prepared, keep it somewhere that’s easily accessible.
“Keep towels and woollen blankets on hand to protect pets during the journey and to keep them as cool as possible.
“Another valuable step is microchipping pets for easy identi cation and ensuring your phone number is visible on their collar.”
For horses and livestock, a separate plan is required.
“If you’re unable to evacuate livestock, the safest place is a large, well-grazed, and fenced area away from roads where they can move freely with access to water,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Make sure you’re prepared; late evacuation will put you and your animals at risk.”
RSPCA Victoria chief executive o cer Liz Walker reiterated the importance of including pets in bush re survival plans.
“Planning for emergencies is such a crucial part of life
in Victoria particularly during the summer months,” Dr Walker said.
“Many people across the state already have a Fire Ready plan in place, and we’re urging everyone to make sure their pets are included too.
“An emergency kit with medication, updated contact details on microchips and collars, photos or scans on your phone of important documents like vaccination certications, are just some of the items to prepare in advance.
“Our pets are such an important part of our lives, including them in your Fire Ready plans increases the chances of you and your pet making it to safety in an emergency situation.”
For more information and tips on how to keep your pets and livestock safe during high bush re risk days, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ pets.
Pacebike brings history
Friday, January 23, 2015
By LEAH TINDILL
AN historic motorbike will be among the attractions at Wangaratta Sports Carnival this weekend.
The pacebike, which made its way to the rural city from Melbourne earlier this week, is dripping with history, most notably being the machine used by legends of the sport, Hubert Opperman and Bob Finlay, who set the 100 mile world record time in Melbourne in 1930 which is believed to still stand today.
Carnival organiser Graeme Taylor said the machine would be a static display but they hoped they could “fire it up”.
“Mal Taylor was aware of the machine and he spoke to some people in Melbourne and they got their heads together about bringing it up here,” he said.
“We think it will be an interesting attraction because of the history that’s associated with it.
“It will be a static display during the day, but we will devote some special attention to it during the evening.
“I’m hopeful that we can start it up.”
While the machine won’t be used for any races on the night, there will
be plenty of motor-paced cycle racing action on Saturday, in the form of Keirin races.
Keirin racing was developed in Japan during the late 1940s for gambling purposes but has since grown to be an internationally recognised sport, becoming an official event at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney.
The motorbike is used to cut the wind resistance for cyclists before they finish the race without any assistance.
“We will be having some Keirin events at the carnival,” Taylor said.
“Keirins are four lap races where you ride behind the motorbike for three laps before you are re-leased from the motorbike to sprint the last lap.”
The carnival kicks off at 12pm with woodchopping events at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, followed by various foot running, cycling and Little Athletics events from 1pm.
AN historic pacebike used to set a world record in 1930 will be a feature of this weekend’s Wangaratta Sports Carnival, delighting Mal Taylor (pictured).
PHOTO: Luke Plummer
PROTECT THE CLAN: CFA AND RSPCA Victoria are reminding the community to include pets in your bushfire safety plan.
Party at the WSAC pool
THE Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool will be venue for a pool party today for 12 to 18-year-olds, with free entry from 11am to 1pm.
Soak up the atmosphere and keep cool in the heat with a DJ pumping out tunes throughout the event and free sausage sizzle available from 11.30am.
Wangaratta Sports Carnival this weekend
THE 104th running of the Wangaratta Sports Carnival will be held on Saturday, January 25 at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, with entry free for spectators.
The woodchopping events start at 10.30am with running races from 2.30pm, culminating in the running of the Wangaratta Gift under lights in the evening.
Family Fun Day in Mulwala on Saturday
A FAMILY fun day will be held at the Mulwala Waterski Club on Saturday, January 25, with gates open from 12.30pm.
See remote control model boats in action, ski and motorcross demonstrations all day, Australian zoo animals and kids activities including a jumping castle, waterslide, bumper boats, camel rides and more.
It is a fully catered event (no byo or eskies) with a laser light and sound show being held from 9pm. Entry to the Family Fun Day is just $5 per person ($2 for kids aged six and under) with entry free after 6pm and all welcome.
BBQ Showdown and family fun day
LOCAL barbecue enthusiasts will battle it out at the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Backyard BBQ Showdown on Sunday, January 26 at the Mitchell Avenue Splash Park from 10am to 2pm.
The event is being delivered in partnership with local business My Slice of Life, who is loaning barbecues for the event, which is part of a family fun day featuring market stalls and entertainment for kids.
Participants will need to register and then bring their own steaks, sausages and cooking utensils to be in the running to win up to five prizes, from a prize pool totalling over $3000, while spectators are welcome to come and support the competitors and to help decide the People’s Choice winners.
Artist captures her love for animals in ‘Menagerie’
By ANITA MCPHERSON
AN artist who sees the unique spirit and character in each of the animals she loves to paint, is holding an exhibition at the Art Gallery on Ovens in Wangaratta.
Renowned Australian artist Carolyn Sheather lives in Mans eld and works from her studio in Beechworth, but it was growing up on the family farm in Cheshunt where her love for animals and the natural world began.
Carolyn said she and her 10 siblings were raised on the productive property surrounded by cattle, where they also grew their own vegetables, and she attended secondary school in Wangaratta.
While having studied and gone on to teach extensively both locally, interstate and overseas, when it comes to her own paintings today, animals o en take centre stage.
“I nd that animals come naturally to me because I grew up with them,” she said.
“I see animals as companions not commodities and they are sentientthey have feelings whether we like it or not.
“But I don’t want to make a political statement - I’m never going to paint anything I don’t want to manifest.
“I think art is very powerful so I don’t want to paint angst, I paint happy things.”
While Carolyn has worked for many years in a variety of di erent mediums including pastels, watercolours and acrylics, it was a er establishing her Beechworth 18 months ago that she began concentrating on oil painting.
She set herself a challenge to paint 100 paintings in three months, and much of this body of work, from small studies to larger scale pieces, are showcased in the exhibition she has called Menagerie.
“I became a much better painter with oils by doing the challenge,” she said.
“I’m in love with oils which I think comes through in the work.”
“My heartfelt gratitude goes to the
Mayday Hills Art Society for the opportunity they have given me in my amazing studio space - it has allowed me to ‘become’.”
Carolyn said she has a attracted a worldwide following from art lovers who nd her character- lled portraits enchanting, and she said it’s a pleasure to bring joy to people.
She says it’s her ability to look animals in the eye and “to paint less information, but give more” which has become her strength, and is something she wants to get even better at.
“I really want to explore the relationships between animals too - they have these incredible relationships between themselves, not just between us and them,” she said.
See Menagerie at the Art Gallery on Ovens on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm until February 3.
Meet the artist during the o cial opening celebration being held on Saturday, January 25 from 12pm to 2pm, with all welcome.
Counterparts exhibition at Wangaratta Art Gallery
AN exhibition by friends and textile artists Britt Salt and Hannah Gartside, who met at the Victoria College of Arts in 2023, is being held at Wangaratta Art Gallery.
While differing in their approach, both artists celebrate the medium of textiles and extend the practice through a play with space, movement, intimacy, curiosity and interaction with the body.
Counterparts: Expanded Textile Practices features new work by both artists alongside formative work held in the Wangaratta Art Gallery Collection, and the extension of previous bodies of work and they can be seen in the gallery until February 16.
Wangaratta community market
THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm. There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments also on site.
Stalls are available for 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 with free entry. Anyone who has interesting items from Wangaratta’s past they think should be on display are welcome to bring them in or donate them to the museum, with more information via email to wangarattahistorialsociety@ gmail.com.
By Arrangement with ORiGiN Theatrical On Behalf of Samuel French A Concord Theat ricals Company
NATURAL WORLD: Artist Carolyn Sheather shares her paintings, drawings, sculptures and sketchbooks in ‘Menagerie’ at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway o Murphy Street in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Rates, Revenue & Spending Priorities
Climate Adaptation Plan
Municipal Early Years Plan
Waratah Estate Gem
THIS well-presented 3-bedroom brick veneer home is ideally situated in the highly sought-after Waratah Estate.
Offering comfortable living with a functional kitchen, adjacent dining space and multiple living areas providing flexibility for families or those who enjoy entertaining.
All three bedrooms feature built-in robes and ceiling fans.
The family bathroom includes a separate bath, shower, vanity and toilet off the laundry providing a functional set-up.
Year-round comfort is assured with a combination of evaporative cooling and gas heating supported by a solar system for efficiency, and a wood fire for ambience and radiant warmth in the cooler months.
Outdoor living is a highlight of this property, with a large undercover area feeding off the kitchen/living zone, complete with concrete floor and semi-enclosed on multiple sides, perfect for enjoying throughout the year. A spacious 7m x 9m (approx.) shed with excellent storage options and workshop space for the handyman and carport accommo-
dation for 3 cars. Set on a generous 742m2 (approx.) block with established low-maintenance gardens, this property presents a fantastic opportunity for families, first-home buyers, who are seeking a peaceful and convenient lifestyle. For further information or to arrange an inspection, please contact our team today.
Charming country living
CHARMING country-style home set on a spacious 2,023m² (approx. half acre) block in the heart of Oxley, offering comfort, practicality and a peaceful lifestyle you will love.
Polished timber floors throughout with an open-plan kitchen, dining and living design create an instant sense of warmth and homeliness.
The kitchen benefits from good natural light and includes a dishwasher, island bench and electric cooking.
The main living area features a wood fire, and the home is complete with ducted evaporative cooling, complimented by a split system in the large master bedroom which feeds out through French doors onto the wrap around verandah. Each of the three bedrooms also include built-in robes and ceiling fans.
The two-way family bathroom boasts a corner spa bath, shower, vanity and separate toilet.
Moving outside you will enjoy the expansive undercover alfresco area with concrete floor. Vehicle storage and hobbies are well catered for with a double
Agent | Garry Nash & Co
Phone | 03 5722 2663
Price | $649,000
Location | 36 Macartney Street, Oxley
carport and adjoining double garage/ workshop with concrete floor. Further improvements include a chook pen, wood shed and ample outdoor space to make this home your own.
Conveniently located near Oxley’s general store, King River Café, bike tracks and park, this property offers the perfect blend of country living with town conveniences.
Contact our team to organise your inspection today.
Features:
•
•
•
•
kitchen featuring large walk-in pantry. Fisher Paykel 2-draw dishwasher. Sainless steel electric oven with gas cooktop. Island bench and soft-close drawers. Open plan kitchen/living/dining with sliding door access to alfresco under roof. Ceiling fan and tv point.
• Separate family bathroom. Laundry with plenty of storage.
• Drive-through access from double lock up garage to rear yard and 6m x 4m (approx.) colorbond shed with roller door, concrete floor and power.
• Secure, private rear yard. Colorbond fences.
• Colorbond roof. Rainwater tank.
• Land size 665 square metres (approx.)
• OFFERS INVITED.
Celebrant Roxanne Bodsworth
Marriage Celebrant since 2008 Funeral and Naming Celebrant since 2000
Phone: 0428 401 964 rbodsworth@outlook.com www.sunwyse.com.au
Wangaratta 17 Howell Street
As neat as a pin
For Sale $455,000 - $496,000
View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31382424
Nutrien
Wangaratta 1/15 Swinburne Drive
$490,000 - $540,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31841089
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Waldara 114 Wangandary Road
Family
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
675m2
wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19191564 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Wangaratta 16 Mepunga Avenue
Updated 4 Bedroom Home in Mepunga Avenue
For Sale $565,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19364037
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Cheshunt 2064 Edi-Cheshunt Road
1Ac 2 1
Charming weatherboard with creek frontage
For Sale $825,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L29938044
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
ISUZU MU-X makes light of improvements
BY DEREK OGDEN, MARQUE MOTORING
THE selling of grocery items and automobiles grows ever closer, especially in these days of ‘shrinkflation’, where products are reduced in size without equivalent price reductions.
I’m not suggesting that Isuzu is taking buyers for a ride with the addition of its smaller engine MU-X SUV but claims this brings added appeal (read sales) to the family friendly seven-seater.
Prices start at $47,400 for the MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4 X 2, plus on-road costs, and top out at $67,990, drive away, for the MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4 X 4.
Price increases are limited to $500 to $2000, marking the first increase in two years.
The new 1.9-litre fourcylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque, is 30kW and 100Nm down on the larger established 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel motor.
Both engines are mated with an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission with 4 X 2 or 4 X 4 drivetrains optional.
Available in three variants – LS-M 4 X 2, LS-M 4 X 4 and LS-U 4 X 4 – with unique Australian specification, the upgraded MU-X is engineered for a wide range of uses, including city commuting and long-distance touring, with the 1.9-litre delivering linear and progressive torque across the whole rev range.
On test was the MX-I LS-M
1.9L 4 X 4.
The MU-X range is covered by Isuzu’s sixyear/150,000km warranty with capped price servicing and up to seven years roadside assistance.
STYLING
There’s nothing outlandish about the Isuzu MX-U’s looks with the use of black spread around bodywork, starting with black and gunmetal grey grille and black sidesteps. Black window trims are joined by black door mirrors and handles.
Lighting is from the latest on o er, with automatic bi-LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights with auto-levelling and automatic high beam control.
LED combination taillights take pride of place at the rear, in an otherwise conservative appearance compared to many SUVs in the class.
One modern exception is a showy 17-inch set of silver alloy wheels shod with 255/65R17Dunlop AT25 AllTerrain tyres, backed up by a spare slung under the vehicle between the rear wheels. Not the best to get at, especially in muddy conditions.
INTERIOR
A downmarket polyurethane steering wheel and gear selector contrasts with high-grade cloth trim sevenseat upholstery and carpet flooring.
In the second row there’s a generous amount of passenger space.
The second seats don’t slide but they do recline.
The third row is accessible by getting the second-row seats to fold and tumble.
Once again leg and toe room are friendly to the grown-up. Not so, headspace.
Up front in the MU-X includes cupholders that pop out from the dashboard in front of the side air vents, while controls on the centre console include a dial for the four-wheel drive options.
Air-conditioning includes rear passenger air vents and controls.
ISOFIX compatible anchor points on outer two seats of the second row, with three top-tether points.
The MU-X LS-M has an electric park brake but makes do a manual tailgate.
Ute-based SUV classleading boot space of 311 litres with all seat backs up,
■ POPULAR: The Isuzu MU-X continues to prove popular, with 15,584 examples of the seven-seat SUV finding homes with Australian families and adventure-seekers.
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP:
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4 X 2: $47,400 (NEW)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4 X 2: $49,400 (+$500)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4 X 4: $53,400 (NEW)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4 X 4: $55,400 (+$500)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4 X 2: $55,900 (+$500)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-U 1.9L 4 X 4: $59,900 (NEW)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4 X 4: $61,900 (+$500)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4 X 2: $63,400 (+$2000)
2024 Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4 X 4: $69,400 or 67,990 drive away (+$2000)
Note: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Isuzu local dealer for drive-away prices.
1119 litres with the third row folded flat, and 2138 litres with the second and third rows folded flat.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Since its local debut in 2022, the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine has earnt a reputation with motorists and business fleets as a quiet, torquey and fuel-e cient unit.
The four-cylinder engine, producing 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque, is 30kW and 100Nm on the larger established 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel motor.
Both engines are mated with an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission with 4 X 2 or 4 X 4 drivetrains optional.
SAFETY
The MU-X makes use of Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assist, which includes autonomous emergency braking with turn assist, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with engine stop/ start, tra c sign recognition, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, emergency lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, rear cross tra c alert and trailer sway control.
Reversing camera with dynamic guidelines and eight airbags make up the suite.
DRIVING
Obvious question: how does the MU-X 1.9 litre go?
Obvious answer: not as well as the 3-ltre, especially with seven bodies on board.
However, all is not lost, with 110kW at 3600rpm and 350Nm of torque on tap over 25 per cent of its bandwidth between 1800 and 2600 revs.
But more importantly, strong mid-range torque (300Nm) is available from only 1550 to 3700rpm, delivering a wide range of strong mid-range pulling power.
Isuzu claims the 1.9 motor can save up to 10 per cent (7.4L/100km combined) in fuel over the 3.0 litre unit (8.3L/100km), the test vehicle recorded 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres in city circumstances and 5.4 litres per100 kilometres on the open road.
O road, 4 X 4 Terrain Command incorporates a 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low dual range transfer case, plus rear di lock and Rough Terrain mode.
Limited part-time fourwheel drive means 4H and 4L can be used only on unsealed surfaces.
Switching between 2H and 4H on the fly can be done at speeds up to 100km/h.
Not surprising, braked towing capacity of 3000kg is shy 500kg of 3.0-litre.
However, the 1.9 litre models have increased payload capacities of up to 735kg, close to top of the class.
The range boasts a generous 230mm ground clearance with 28.6-degree approach, 22.6-degree rampover and 27.6-degree departure angles and up to 800mm wading depth.
The MU-X’s steering is on the light side, making lowspeed manoeuvres easier and the MU-X feeling a tad more nimble.
The lane-centring system can become confused bouncing the SUV around the lane. The latter functions can be turned o easily by buttons on the steering wheel.
SUMMARY
the Isuzu MU-X continues to prove popular, with 15,584 examples of the seven-seat SUV finding homes with Australian families and adventure-seekers, eclipsing the previous annual record of 14,139 sold throughout 2023.
Rural City Connection
Australia Day
Join us for Australia Day as we honour the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals and community groups in our region. O cial proceedings will include a citizenship ceremony, where we welcome our newest Australians and the presentation of Australia Day Awards for Wangaratta’s Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Event/Project of the Year..
Annual Business Forum
Local business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs are invited to the 2025 Annual Business Forum. This event is aimed at connecting and empowering the local business community with a keynote address by Michael Licenblat. The forum will take place on Thursday 20 February, from 6 - 9 pm at the WPACC. For more information and to book visit: www.investwangaratta.com.au
Detox Your Home
Help keep toxic household chemicals out of the environment by spring cleaning your home and delivering them to the Detox Your Home event on Saturday 22 February 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm at the Council Works Depot, 51-69 Newman Street Wangaratta. Registrations are essential and close 20 February 2025. Register via www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome
Community Satisfaction Survey
From now until mid-March your household may receive a call from an independent market research agency, who have been commissioned to conduct a community satisfaction survey on behalf of Council. The agency will interview a sample of residents to assess Council’s performance across a range of measures, identifying ways to provide improvement or more e ective service delivery to residents. Your details and responses are confidential. Only the overall results are shared with the Rural City of Wangaratta. We appreciate you taking the time to assist us with your valuable feedback. If you have any questions, please call Council on 5722 0888
Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta
Council Plan Survey
We need your feedback to develop our new Council Plan. The Plan reflects the voice, experiences, ideas, and aspirations of our whole community. Complete the survey online and discover other ways to get involved via the QR code.
Rates, Revenue & Spending Priorities
We’re seeking community input to help us shape the 202526 Budget and the Revenue & Rating Plan 2025-29. Tell us how you think future funds should be raised and invested. Have your say by completing the survey online and/or by making a direct budget submission via the QR code.
Climate Adaptation Strategy
Have your say on the draft 10-year Climate Adaptation Plan for council’s assets, operations and service delivery. This strategy will prepare council to become more resilient to the e ects of climate-related natural hazards. Get involved online via the QR code or in person at a drop in session.
Drop-in Sessions
7 Feb | 11am-1pm | Wangaratta Library 10 Feb | 6pm-7pm | Online *registrations required https://events.humanitix.com/draft-climate-adaptationplan-drop-in-session
Backyard BBQ Showdown
Join us at the Summer Sizzle on Sunday 26 January at Wangaratta Splash Park, Mitchell Ave for the Backyard BBQ Showdown. Prove your grilling prowess and compete for some fantastic prizes! You’ll need meat & utensils. BBQs are generously supplied by My Slice of Life. Registration is essential. For more info and to register visit the What’s On section of our website.
Tenders
T15852 Parking Machines Supply & Install
Tender closes at 4.00pm Friday 24 January 2025
84661 Apex Park Changing Places Facility
Tender closes at 2.00pm on Wednesday 5 February 2025
T15497 Tree and Arboriculture Services Panel
Tender closes at 12noon on Wednesday 5 February 2025
T14871 Aged Care Management Software Program
Tender closes at 12.00pm Wednesday 12 February 2025
Further details may be obtained by visiting eProcure on Councils website.
Planning Applications
Application No PlnApp24/161
Location 37 Greta Road WANGARATTA
Proposal 2-lot subdivision, creation of access to a Transport Zone 2, and buildings and works for the construction of the second dwelling. These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be a ected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (in writing). For more information, please contact Planning on 03 5722 0888. Submissions close 14 February 2025.
Positions Vacant
For further information on these positions please visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers
IN PERSON BY PHONE
Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT: LOT 274 PP 2358, RAILWAY RD, DOCKERS PLAINS VIC 3678 www.rfnsa.com.au/3678008
1. Proposed upgrade consists of:
• Remove 6 x existing Telstra panel antennas.
• Install 6 x proposed Telstra panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m long).
• Install 6 x RRUs and 3 x Junction Boxes on existing mounts.
• Modification to existing headframe.
• Existing Telstra equipment shelter to accommodate existing and proposed Telstra equipment.
• Install ancillary equipment including updated signage, filters, feeders, TMA’s, etc. as required.
2. The proposal is to improve Telstra’s 4G services and introduce 5G technology.
3. Telstra regards the proposed installations as Low Impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the descriptions above.
4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Nikta P, community.consult@downergroup.com by COB Monday 10th February 2025.
Telstra Limited ACN 086 174 781 Downer EDI Limited ABN 97 003 872 848 www.downergroup.com.au
FURNITURE, books, household items, kids, toys, general bric-a-brac, plants and lots more. Reasonable prices. Saturday January 25, 8am til 1pm , 2 Casino Court, Wangaratta.
MARTIAL ARTS TRANING, one on one training, 4th Dan Black Belt, 40 years’ experience. Training, exibility, self defense and tness. Phone 0439 528 176.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
FRANKS DOG
TRAINING, behavioral solutions, quali ed, experienced, a ordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610
MARK ’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
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.
Have you adopted your dog, through an adoption agency in the last 6 months?
Apply now to claim your free training session!
There are 5 free training sessions a month.
There is also one Full Scholarship of ongoing training position open at a time.
Phone: 0434 189 452 www.thedoggiediplomat.com
Two male Jack Russell pups, Microchip numbers
956000015988134, 956000015984585 tri colour, microchipped, vet checked and vaccinated, available now, $750 each.
Source code MB330031
Phone 0400 671 577.
Freedom on Wheels: Mobility Scooter for easy living 12 months old – like new White in colour $3900
Phone Denise 0404 411 346
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $30 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
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.
WANTED
AGISTMENT for around 20 mares in the North East, preferably Wangaratta/Benalla or paddock/farm for lease
Must have good feed, shade and water
Phone Richard 0407 654 636
LONGTERM
PADDOCK/ FARM wanted to lease for Cattle, must have good feed, water, shade and fencing. Ph 0409 554 648.
USED once going outback/near new (built Nov 2019), top rack and additional annex included, $6000 neg. Ph 0417 154 229 or 0401 422 650.
CUB Supamatic hard floor camper trailer, towable by smallish car, excellent condition, light enough to push into position, very easy to set up, central walking between 2 single beds, ready for caravan park or bush camping, reg (W37396), see erected opposite Tarra Pub 17th-19th Jan, $7500 ONO. Phone Charlie 5725 1761.
QUINTREX
BayHunter runabout, 1992, 4.4 metre aluminium V-hull, with canopy and side window panels, trailer and 40HP Mercury engine, life jackets, reg to Sep 25, $12,500
FOR SALE
Tractor + 5 ft
Slasher 40 HP diesel
Recently serviced
Good rear tyres and brakes
Very reliable
Transport can be arranged $6500 Ph 0429 945 642 Mansfield
TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED
For the 2025 Grape Season. MUST BE OR HAVE: CURRENT HC LICENCE, OVER 25 YEARS OLD, FORKLIFT LICENCE, EXPERIENCED WITH GENERAL FREIGHT. APPROXIMATELY 8 WEEKS WORK, STARTING EARLY FEB. Above Award Wages for the right applicants.
PHONE GREG 0429 306 679 or email jenveytransport@gmail.com
Sales Merchandise – Nutrien Ag
Solutions Myrtleford Branch
• Join Australia’s leading agribusiness
• Competitive salary and career progression
About the role:
Reporting to the Branch Manager the focus of your role will be to develop strong customer relationships. You will:
• Perform stock control, ordering, receipting, and dispatching of goods
• Assisting customers with pricing and product queries & process counter sales
• Loading and unloading trucks, dispatching, and unpacking orders and deliveries
• Occasional on-farm deliveries
What we’re looking for?
• Experience working within a sales environment
• A proactive approach to work and practical organisation skills
• Excellent attention to detail Problem solving skills and empathy to resolve customer issues promptly
• A current driver’s license is essential and a forkli ticket is highly advantageous and you must be willing to obtain.
In return, we’ll be o ering a competitive remuneration package, an additional day of leave, gender neutral parental leave policy and we’ll support you in your career development and growth.
For further information or to apply visit https://jobs.nutrien.com/Australia/ job/Myrtleford-Sales-MerchandiseVIC-3737/584636417/ Nutrien Ivone Agencies 17-19 Myrtle Street, Myrtleford.
District Support O icer
• Located in Wangaratta District 23
• Full Time | Fixed Term to 18.04.2025
• $60,524 pa (plus 11.5% superannuation) pro rata
This varied, fixed term opportunity will not only allow you to showcase your strong administrative skills, but you will be joining an organisation that has a meaningful purpose in the community. The person we are looking for will be hands on and keen to join a small team that will provide you with the ability to apply your array of skills to a variety of tasks.
For further information about this position, including a Position Description, key requirements and details on how to apply, please visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au and select ‘Volunteer & Careers’ followed by ‘Jobs at CFA’.
Closing date: 28 January 2025 (11:59 pm)
CFA is committed to providing an inclusive, fair and child safe environment for all sta , volunteers and the community.
Apprentice Printer
Full-Time Position
Award winning newspaper publisher, North East Media, has a vacancy for an apprentice printer to work at our state-of-the-art press facility in Wangaratta, where the Wangaratta Chronicle and more than 20 other regional newspapers are printed.
The successful applicant will be committed to completing the four years of training,during which they will be taught all facets of newspaper printing. Applicants must be self motivated, reliable and be able to work in a close team environment.
This is a full-time position of 38 hours per week, but some flexibility will be required.
If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment with a long standing publisher, we would encourage you to forward your covering letter and CV (including three referees) to:
Danny Fogarty, Print Manager, North East Media 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677 dfogarty@nemedia.com.au
All applications are regarded as private and confidential. Award wages apply.
Truck Driver/Meat
Lumper
Wangaratta Abattoirs requires a reliable person able to be a delivery driver to distribute carcass meat throughout Victoria and the Riverina to local butchers and supermarkets. Early morning starts to allow delivery to butchers during the day and some heavy lifting is involved. We are prepared to teach the suitable person lifting techniques to assist with carcass deliveries.
HEAVY RIGID LICENSE ESSENTIAL.
This is an opportunity to build towards a long term position with our company. Apply by return response to this advertisement, call Peter Booth on 5721 2349 or come in and see us at 53 Greta Road, Wangaratta.
VINEYARD OPERATOR REQUIRED
ABOVE AWARD WAGES, IMMEDIATE START
We require a physically fit and experienced Vineyard Operator to work at our Banksdale Vineyard for the upcoming harvest which is located 35kms South East of Wangaratta. Shifts will predominantly be day and night shift (penalty rates will apply).
Forklift license essential, Experienced preferred
Please contact Allyce on 0466 798 611 for more information or send an email outlining your experience and availability to careers@brownfwg.com.au
FOOD & DOMESTIC SERVICES ASSISTANT PERMANENT PART TIME – 0.80 EFT
Employee Benefits includes:
• Full Salary Packaging Arrangements
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Staff wellbeing program, including Fitness Passport Program
Closing Date: 09/02/2025
For further information please contact Crystal Price, Essential Services Facility Supervisor -(03)5728 0340 or email crystal.price@beechworthhealth.org.au
The successful applicant will be required to be eligible and undergo the following:
Police Record Check and or/NDIS Check Current Immunisation status
To apply and for full details on the position, please log on to: www.beechworthhealthservice.com.au
THE ROLE OF PUBLISHERS
Advertisers please note!
Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our Employment column is reserved for advertisements which carry a specific and genuine offer of employment.
We are currently seeking applicants for the following ongoing positions for 2025: Mathematics Teacher Humanities and/or Religious Education Teacher Learning Mentor
Applications close on Wednesday 29th December at 12pm. For further details on how to apply please visit our website https://www.galen.vic.edu.au/employment/
Our school community promotes the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children. Galen Catholic College embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Application instructions can be found on our website galen.vic.edu.au
Ads for 'Business Opportunities', 'Commission Only' training courses and employment services should be submitted under those headings. Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trade Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.
Celebrant Roxanne Bodsworth
Available for Marriages, Namings, Funerals, and all your celebrancy needs.
Marriage Celebrant since 2008
Funeral and Naming Celebrant since 2000
Phone: 0428 401 964 www.sunwyse.com.au
CLAYTON, Alan.
STANTON – COLLET
Congratulations Luke and Renee
On your marriage Saturday January 25, 2025. We wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Love and best wishes Gerry and Nikki, Mick and Danielle
The Sta of Illoura Residential Aged Care are saddened by the passing of Alan who has been part of our community. We would like to pass on our deepest sympathy to his family and friends during this di cult time.
17/4/1935 – 20/1/2025
Passed away in Wangaratta.
Loved wife of Francesco (dec).
Loving Mum of Antonio (dec), Lou, Jenny, Angelo, Carmin (dec), Greg, Connie and Mary.
Cherished Nonna of 25 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. Rest in peace.
ADAMO (nee Muraca), Teresa. Passed peacefully January 20, 2025.
Dearly loved mother of Lou. Mother -in-law to Kathy. Dearly loved and greatly missed. A strong, beautiful lady, mother, mother-in-law and grandmother who touched so many hearts with her kindness and compassion. Reunited with Papa and Carm, Rest easy our beloved Nonna. Missing you now and forever, ~ with love Kathy, Lou, Kelley, Sara, James and their extended families.
CLAYTON, Alan Robert. 16/5/1934 – 17/1/2025
Deeply loved husband of Marcia and all his family Imogen, Demelza, Stella, Trixie, Adalee, David D and David M.
Beautiful man, we will miss your humour,
SCHULZ, Edwin Arthur. 21/8/1937-15/1/2025
Much loved father and father-in-law of Michelle and Bill. Cherished Poppy of Brooke, Brad and Luke. Great-Poppy of Charlie, Chelsea, Marlie and Eli.
MALINS, Robert Keith. 4/12/1949 – 17/1/2025
Passed away suddenly on January 17, 2025 in Wangaratta.
Loved son of Marjorie and George (dec). Brother of Bill and Helen (dec).
“At peace in Gods’ care”
A graveside service will be held at the Kyabram Cemetery, Lancaster Road, Kyabram on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 commencing at 11am.
“Your Local Choice” Kyabram & District Funerals 119 Albion Street Kyabram Phone 5852 1061 www.kyabramfunerals.com.au
MASON, Betty Charlotte. 16/7/1928-17/1/2025
Dearly loved wife of Bob (dec).
Please see North East Funerals website for funeral service details.
RAE, Brian Walter. Brian passed away suddenly on January 15, 2025. Aged 80 years.
Beloved husband of Patti, father and grandfather. Always remembered. Please visit North East Funerals website for funeral details. www.northeastfunerals.com.au/tributes/
LLEWELLYN
TANIRAU, Emanuel “Manny”. Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, a er a long battle with illness. Aged 70 years. Loving partner of Leonie Falconer. Beloved father of Shane and Rachael Tanirau.
A private cremation has been held. An opportunity to share memories will be arranged and details communicated soon.
A gentle nature, a heart of gold, One of the best this world could hold.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
WILLIAMS, Kate
The Galen Catholic College community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our friend and colleague, Kate. Deepest sympathy and condolences to Mark, Tom, Freya, Peter, Micol and the extended family. May she rest in peace.
ADAMO
Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Teresa Adamo will be o ered in St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1 Ford Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, January 30, 2025 commencing at 10am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of owers a donation can be made online in memory of Teresa to Dementia Australia at www.dementia.org.au/ Rosary will be recited prior to Mass commencing at 9.30am.
Teresa’s Mass can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Friends, relatives and those whose hearts have been touched by Wendy, are invited to celebrate her life with her family. The funeral service of Wendy Llewellyn will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. A private cremation will follow this service.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
Mason Park Funerals 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. Your memorial donation can assist in securing the continued availability of comprehensive health care locally. The bereaved family will be noti ed of your memorial gi according to your wishes and you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for your donation. For further information or to make a donation please contact:
ADAMO, Teresa.
GORDON, Merle. January 25, 1973.
Esther and John.
ROBINSON, Lillian. January 26, 1968.
Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day.
~Ether and John.
Country Week squad announced
sion Two, a er a runners up placing in 2023 saw them promoted to the Provincial Division last season then
The squad will play a game daily from Monday, February 10 through to Thursday, February 13 against teams from Sunraysia, Gisborne, Bellarine Peninsula and the South West, with the nal to be held on Friday,
WDCA president Justin Kelly said the team had a very strong chance to
“The team has been relegated to Division Two this season, but we have seven players with previous experience at Melbourne Country
SCOREBOARD
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY, January 18
Ladies Stableford
A Grade Winner: Di Murphy 37. B Grade Winner: Robyn Ottaway 35. Ball Winners: Marilyn Pane 2 Balls 35, Yogie Naidoo 34, Judy Fogerty 34.
NTPs - 4th: J Fogerty, 8th: M Adams, 13th: L Stone, 17th: V Moorhead.
Men’s Stableford
A Grade Winner: Darren Jones 40. Runner up: Wayne Hibberson 39.
B Grade Winner: Glenn Ryan C/B David Richards 38. Runner up: David Richards 38.
C Grade Winner: Peter Ford 39. Runner up: Ray Hyland 38.
D Grade Winner: Andrew Charles C/B Jeremy Pope-Mercieca 36. Runner up: Jeremy Pope-Mercieca 36. Ball winners: Andrew Senkic 2 balls 39, Ian Dinsdale 38, Bronte Bruce 37, Charl De Mink 37, Attila Kungl 37, Joe Marjanovic 36, Wade Goodwin 36, William Slade 35, Danny Potter 35, Nat Hirunwiwat 35, Rog Henderson 35, Gordon Hines 35, Les Naidoo.
NTPs - 4th: S Fisher, 8th: N Hogan, 13th: Ian Dinsdale, 17th: A Kungl. Sunday, January 19
“There are seven allrounders which will be good for our batting depth, with a good mix of experience and youth, led by Paddy McNamara.
“The WDCA were runners up in Division Two two seasons ago and we are certainly hoping to get to the grand nal.”
McNamara said he was thrilled to lead such a strong and dynamic team out for redemption.
“We have a good squad together with a good mix of experience and youth which will be crucial during a big week of four to ve days of cricket,” he said.
“We will be in Division Two this year a er being relegated from Provincial last year so we will de nitely
be looking to redeem ourselves by nishing top two and getting the league back into Provincial next season.”
Melbourne Country Week commences on Monday, February 10.
WDCA 2025 Melbourne Country Week Squad
Paddy McNamara (C) (Rovers United Bruck); Dylan Bursill (Ovens Valley United); Ryan Collier (Rovers United Bruck); Gregor Fraser (Ovens Valley United); Matt Lister (City Colts); Cooper Matheson (Wangaratta Magpies); Josh Nanson (City Colts); Tyler Nanson (City Colts); Charith Perera (Rovers United Bruck); Jack Ryan (Beechworth Wanderers); Matt Ryan
Men’s and Ladies’ medley stableford
A Grade Winner: Dan Lloyd 47. Ball winners: Matthew Pane 2 balls 40, Tanu Nu’u 37, N Speziale 35. NTPs - 8th: T Aggett, 13th: C Scott. Monday, January 20 Veterans Stableford
A Grade Winner: Trevor Nippress
37. B Grade Winner: Peter Collihole 34.
Ball winners: John McKenzie 35, John West 34, Keith Moorhead 34, Stan Goldsworthy 34.
NTPs - 4th: Keith Moorhead, 8th: Stan Goldsworthy, 13th: Ian Dinsdale.
Tuesday, January 21
Ladies 9 hole stableford
Winner: Kaye Pink 17. Ball Winners: Kathie Hyland 14. Ladies monthly medal
Winner: Di Murphy -4. Best scratch: Di Murphy 76. Ball Winners: Linda Stone -1, Leeanne Carmody -1.
NTPs - 4th: Di Murphy, 8th: Josie Fitzsimons, 13th: Janet Wraith, 17th: L Carmody.
Wednesday, January 22
Men’s 18 hole stableford
A Grade Winner: Nigel Cooper 40.
B Grade Winner: Trevor Nippress
37.
C Grade Winner: Martin Hill 37.
D Grade winner: Rog Henderson
36.
Ball winners: Thomas Aggett 2 balls 38, Andrew walker 36, Alex Gibbs 36, Peter Challman 36, Rhys Rigoni 36, Geoff Day 35, Tanu Nu’U 35, Ian Dinsdale 35, Terry Docherty 34, Keith Moorhead 34, Ian Mills 34.
NTPs - 4th: A Gibbs, 8th: S Ward, 13th: Andy Walker, 17th: A Jones.
WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending January 19
Tuesday, January 14
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Cheryle Leitl 17 points
C/B. Runner Up: Barbara Thomas 17 points C/B.
NTPs - 11th: Cheryle Leitl, 13th: Jill Halbwidl.
Wednesday, January 15
18 Hole Medley Stableford Event
Winner: Stephen Smith 45 points.
Runner Up: Harrison Grant 41 points.
Ball Winners: Kris Allan, John Southwell, Arnold Sparks, Jedd Wright, Chris Oates, Robert Holloway, Daymn Hoffard, Thomas Aggett, Trevor Cooper, Dale Carmody.
NTPs - 4th: Dale Carmody, 7th: Ian Rundell, 9th: Tom McAtee, 11th: Robert Holloway, 13th: John Southwell, 16th: Michael Webster.
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Graeme Arnold 19 points.
Runner Up: John Millman 18 points.
Ball Winners: John Walker, Graeme Beale.
Women’s: Thursday, January 16
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Karen Smith 20 points.
Runner Up: Jill Halbwidl 19 points.
Medley Competition: Friday, January 17
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Arnold Sparks 20 points: Runner Up: Bryce Mortimer 19 points.
Ball Winners: Ashley Clayton, Ian Hayward.
Men’s Competition: Saturday, January 18
18 Hole Stableford Event
President’s Gold Cup
A Grade Winner: Tony Goodison 41 pts. Runner Up: Ashley Clayton 40 pts.
B Grade Winner: Harry Allan 40 points. Runner Up: Sam Antonacci 38 points C/B.
Ball Winners: Matt Fischer, Trevor Coooper, Kurt Schubert, Matthew Ring, John Southwell, Cameron Nottle, Nick Jones, Martin Anania, Ian Rundell, Michael Webster, Robert Holloway, Glenn Burns, Peter Crawford, Dion Ploegmakers, Steve Bismire, Leon Kantor, Graeme Ray, Tim Leslie, Stephen Beavis, John Mullins, Mark Comensoli, Dennis Andrews, Kris Allan, Stan Grant, Robert Fischer, Bill Dodd, Arnold Sparks.
NTPs - 4th: Matt Fischer, 7th: Michael Webster, 9th: John Wiskin, 11th: Steve Bismire, 13th: Kurt Schubert, 16th: Jeremy Winter.
Birdies: Subway - Tony Goodison. McDonalds - Darren Burns, Glenn Burns, Ash Clayton. KFC - Ashley Clayton, Jeremy Winter.
Eagle: Ashley Clayton 17th Hole.
Secret 6: Matt Fischer.
Raffle Winner: Glenny Burns.
Women’s Competition
18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Barbara Thomas 41 points.
Runner Up: Carolyn Sullivan 35 points.
Sunday, January 19
18 Hole Medley Stableford
Winner: Mark Drage 47 points. Runner Up: Cooper Clark 45 points.
Ball Winners: Tashi Namgyal Tenzing, Cousin Emu, Neil McKinnon.
(Beechworth Wanderers); Jimmy Thewlis (Wangaratta Magpies); Cooper Thomason (Ovens Valley United); Matt Whitten (Rovers United Bruck) Schedule, MCW Division Two Monday, February 10 – Wangaratta v Sunraysia @ Yarrambat War Memorial Park, Plenty Valley Tuesday, February 11 – Wangaratta v Gisborne @ Windy Hill, Essendon Wednesday, February 12 – Bellarine Peninsula v Wangaratta @ Hogans Road Res No. 1, Hoppers Crossing Thursday, February 13 – South West v Wangaratta @ McGain Oval, Lebanon Res, Strathmore Friday, February 14 – Finals.
WANG CROQUET CLUB
RESULTS for Monday, January 20 are as follows:
Nathan Reynolds and Gavan Kelly d Margaret Bennett and Robyn Muller 7/3, Gabi Heywood and Christine Ireland d Wendy Waddington and Joan Dyson 7/4.
On Monday, Gabi Heywood played a brilliant in-off shot to clear the opposition and run the hoop.
Wednesday saw several members enjoy playing in the cooler conditions.
Play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, with twilight play from 6pm on Wednesday evenings. 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.
WARBY WALKERS
SUNDAY, January 19, Myrtleford Trails.
A small group of hikers met in Myrtleford early in the morning looking forward to their walks.
TARRA GOLF CLUB
RESULTS Saturday, January 18
The members played a secret pairs stableford event which was won by Alex McMillan and Peter Scoullar 65pts runner’s up were Ken Miller and Angelo Garraffo 59pts.
Nearest the pin 8th Leo McCoy.
Golf to be played on Saturday, January 25 will be decided on the day all members welcome.
It will be an 8.30am roll up 9am hit off.
The early starts will continue for the remainder of the warm season until otherwise advised.
New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf 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.
Last Tuesday, the results of the ladies’ competition paled into insignificance when the players heard at the conclusion of play of the passing of their club president Mani Taniru.
The members were dumbfounded by this sudden very sad news.
In the relatively short time of his involvement with the club he had become a most treasured member.
He was one of the clubs most competent golfers and was an outstanding leader during his term of presidency.
He was a marvellous contributor to the club’s volunteer greenkeeper group.
The Tarrawingee Golf Club will miss him very much.
The first walk, a 6km loop adventure started from Myrtleford’s Rotary Park.
A sunny and cool 17 degrees day was experienced.
We set off along the rail trail to Monroe Lane, along the lane and then on to the Old Ovens Highway.
We then made our leisurely way back to Rotary Park for morning tea then set off again on the 4km return Mosaic Trail.
There were lots of bird song and plenty of mosaics to see and when we reached Apex Park, we saw a tawny frog mouth high in a tree - good spotting Ann.
It was then back to Rotary Park for lunch then into town to Red Ramia for coffee and a spot of shopping before heading home.
Coming Events
Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9
Weekend at Mount St Bernard Lodge near Mt Hotham – booked out, folks. Sunday, February 23
Beechworth Tree Walks - Erin, 0419 200 998.
Join in on the Eucalyptus, Ha-ha Wall and White Oak walks at Mayday Hills, Beechworth.
A shady walk of approximately 6km in the 27-acre parklike grounds, with exotic trees and shrubs, set against a backdrop of magnificent native trees Wednesday, February 26
Ovens River and One Mile CreekAndy, 0439 209 749.
An easy walk of approximately 8km alongside the Ovens River taking in Sydney Beach, Mullinmur, and the northern beaches, then alongside One Mile Creek to Mitchell Avenue.
ROLLING ALONG: Nikki Cunningham and Tamara O’Connor in a golf cart at the Jubilee Golf Club. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Life membership for Margaret Mundy
Mundy was in for a surprise when she attended her regular game of tennis at Wangaratta Hardcourt Association at the Barr Reserve on Tuesday.
At the end of the day’s play Marg was called to the fore and presented with a Life Membership in recognition of her many years involvement with the association.
Marg has been a member for more than 30 years and has been a long time committee member and played regularly on each Tuesday morning, Wednesday a ernoon, and the Thursday night mixed comp and assisted with the juniors as a volunteer.
She also played in Ovens and King Tennis Saturday a ernoon competition, winning a grand nal few years ago.
Marg is a past president and has been an active volunteer at the club for over 25 years, always contributing to the club and organising the Tuesday morning ladies competition and wheelchair tennis, Thursday night mixed competition and wheelchair tennis.
Her involvement in tennis began way back at the Wesley Church courts on a Thursday night.
“I just had friends down there who played so I went along,” she said.
“When they moved to the hardcourt I just followed.”
Marg said her passion for the hardcourt was more for the social interaction rather than just
the tennis competition.
“I just love all the people there,” she said.
“It’s great, it’s like a second family.”
Marg said although she has
been president. and probably vice-president one year, she prefers to just be a committee person doing whatever it takes to keep the club going forward.
spending more time with their families.
“We lost a lovely group of nurses from the Tuesday morning ladies competition because of COVID but that has gradually built up and we have another lovely group of ladies there now.
“We have some more new members coming along this Saturday and I’d encourage anyone else looking for a fun social game of tennis to come down and join in.”
Marg said she was grateful for the Life Membership but it was the warmth and friendliness of the club that would keep her coming back.
“There’s so many people who have been really good to me over the years,” she said.
“I’ll keep going as long as I can.”
“Numbers dropped o a bit in recent years, particularly a er COVID,” she said.
“Kids seem to have more jobs these days and older people are
New members are always welcome to come and play at Wangaratta Hardcourt on Thursday night mixed Tennis 7pm, Tuesday morning social Tennis 9.30am, Wednesday and Friday a ernoon junior coaching and Hot Shots 4pm, or checkout the Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis Facebook page or website.
RECORD ENTRIES:
409 players registered for annual WLTCP competition this long weekend
■ From back page
“There’s no doubt Sam Allen and John Brunner are always very competitive, and in the A grade we’ve got Matthew Allen and Joe Allen.
“In the Women’s Open Singles, I’d have to say Belle Thompson who’s won it so many times before is probably the favourite.
“There’s some very good local talent to come down and feast your eyes on.”
Nothing on this scale is ever completed alone, with Sullivan effusive in his thanks for all the volunteers and sponsors who have chipped in to help make this event possible.
“We’re just so grateful to have the Quality Hotel Gateway Wangaratta and also Johansen Insurance Brokers come on board as major sponsors,” he said.
“That’s enabled us to keep the prizemoney up there and make sure we can look after all of the entrants and all of their families.
“Thanks to all of our volunteers and committee, we wouldn’t be able to run the tournament without them.”
The 2025 Gateway Australia Day Tournament is on from Saturday, January 25 right through to Monday, January 27, at the tennis courts in
Park.
Merriwa
NO SWEAT: Sandra Mitchell follows through on her backhand.
POISE: Maxine Graham serves it up.
TAKE THAT: Shirley Fuller in total control at Wangaratta Hardcourt Tennis.
WELL-DESERVED: Marg Mundy receives her Life Membership from Wangaratta Hardcourt Association president Dot Fox. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
THREE FOR TENNIS: Paul Williams, Pat Henderson and Kathy Dobson are all smiles a er their game.
MARG
On your marks, get set, go!
THE Wangaratta Showground is the place to be this weekend when all the action and excitement of the 104th Wangaratta Sports Carnival is on full display on Saturday, January 25.
The annual event has been growing year on year, with the best runners from around the country making their way to Wangaratta
Wangaratta Sports Club president Anna Pasquali said entry levels had exceeded their expectations for the latest edition of the athletics program at the carnival.
“We have almost 300 athletes coming with more than 650 entries across the events,” she said.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
“There are notable increases in the Men’s Gi , Open 70m, and restricted 400m.
“The numbers are up on what we expected.
“Across the board, they’ve just been up this year, there have been good numbers at all the meets this year, they’ve really established a good junior racing program, so the juniors come and that attracts the parents, and o en the parents race as well.
“They’ve been up across the
board this year, it’s not just ours, but it’s been great for participation rates.”
The day commences with the woodchopping at 10.30am at the Showgrounds, with the athletics to commence from 2.30pm.
Local runners and those from out of town will be trying their best to be rst across the line, with the 120m men’s and women’s Gi the premier races.
For the Men’s Gi , Corey Baker from South Australia, as well as Tom Perry and Brendan Matthews all look strong.
In the Women’s Gi , local hope Andrea Hearne is rming as a
Who to watch at the chop
THE 104th Wangaratta Sports Carnival will be launched with the woodchopping event his Saturday from 10.30am, and it’s set to be a bumper event.
Event organiser Fabian Harding said it was the biggest event they’ve run, with some top-quality choppers set to excite the crowd.
“We got a total of 32 competitors, that makes it the largest number of axemen to compete in any of our North East cuts,” he said.
“Axemen to watch for are Blake Myer in the tree climbing and championship, and David MacIntosh in the championship.
“Adele Deverell will be cutting in the women’s - she has represented Australia and Victoria, and competed in the Stihl Series.
“A local axeman in the open cuts to watch is Brendan Moncrei from Greta.”
In addition to the regular events like the underhand and standing block chops, this year the woodchopping program will feature the tree climb event, which is sure to be a spectacle for onlookers to marvel at.
Harding said there was also a special ‘grudge cut’ organised between three of the events sponsors, with bragging rights on the line.
“We have a bit of a grudge cut between three of our sponsors: Jamie Law from Wangaratta Saw and Lawnmower, Dave James from Wangaratta
AXES READY: Event organiser Fabian Harding hopes the public turns out in force to support the woodchopping at this year’s Wangaratta Sports Carnival.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Fasteners, and Chris Backas from Backas Earthmoving,” Harding said.
“There’s been a fair bit of smack talk been going on between the three, so it should be a good cut.”
Around $8000 in prizemoney will be up for grabs, along with prizes, with a barbecue and bar facilities set to keep spectators entertained.
The woodchopping at the Wangaratta Sports Carnival will commence on Saturday, January 25 from 10.30am at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS -
2.30pm – 70m Open Heats
3.09pm – 70m Restricted Heats
3.36pm – 70m Open Semis
3.46pm – 120m U/14 Mixed Heats
3.59pm – 120m U/18 Mixed Heats
4.15pm – 70m Restricted Final & Presentation
4.22pm - 70m Open Final & Presentation
4.50pm - 800m Open Heats
5.04pm – 120m U/14 Mixed Final & Presentation
contender following her second placing in the Maryborough Gi , while Melbourne’s Jasmine Rowe could produce a thrilling contest. Locals Sam Comensoli (men’s 70m restricted) and Callum Bott (men’s 400m) will also be around the mark in their events.
The rst heats of the men’s and women’s Gi s are set to commence from 5.44pm with the semi- nals set for 7pm.
It will all lead up to the nals, with the women’s champion decided from 8.52pm and the men’s from 9pm.
The event is free to enter, with canteen and bar facilities available.
5.12pm - 120m U/18 Mixed Final & Presentation
5.25pm – 120m Masters Heats
5.44pm – 120m Women’s Gift Heats
6.06pm – 120m Men’s Gifts Heats
6.31pm – 800m Master’s 45 + Final & Presentation
6.38pm – 800m Open Final & Presentation
6.45pm – 120m Masters Final & Presentation
6.53pm – 120m Women’s Gift Semis
7.05pm – 120m Men’s Gift Semis
7.23pm – 300m Masters Heats
8.07pm – 300m Women’s Heats
8.20pm – 400m Men’s Heats
8.36pm – 400m Restricted Final & Presentation
8.44pm – 1600m Open Final & Presentation
8.52pm – 120m Women’s Gift Final & Presentation
9.00pm – 120m Men’s Gift Final & Presentation
9.08pm – 300m Masters Final & Presentation
9.16pm – 300m Women’s Final & Presentation 9.23pm – 400m Men’s Final & Presentation
LOCAL HOPES: Wangaratta runners (from le ) Callum Bott, Will Boulton, Christian Pasquali, Sam Comensoli and Bella Boulton will give their home crowd something to cheer about when they race this Saturday at the Wangaratta Sports Carnival.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Wangaratta & District Cricket Association
PREVIEWS: Saturday, January 25 2024/25 season
Hawks host Lakers in red-ball resurgence
THE long format of local cricket will make its illustrious return this weekend as the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s A grade coemption shifts from 40 overs to the 75-over game.
Fresh o the bye and leading the ladder, Rovers United Bruck are in the best position to deal a devastating blow to erce competitors Yarrawonga Mulwala.
While the Lakers were last year’s red-ball premiers, defeating the Hawks in the grand nal by 73 runs, they’ve been uncharacteristically poor this season and sit second-last on the overall ladder.
If Rovers United Bruck can produce consistently good cricket over the next two weekends, the Lakers’ shot at retaining their crown could be all but done.
Hawks skipper Paddy McNamara said it was heartening
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
to see the Lakers struggling.
“We’ve copped a bit from them in the past,” he said.
“Obviously last season was disappointing and the rst game this season we played really poorly and got done, so it’s really nice to see them down the bottom of the ladder.
“It’s always a tough game and always a game we look forward to as a club.
“Hopefully we can knock them o and pretty much end their season.”
The Hawks have had the luxury of an extra week of preparation for the mental rigors of the long format, courtesy of the bye last weekend.
“We’ve had the red balls out at training the last couple
of weeks now,” McNamara said.
“In the field it’s a long day, everyone knows that, but I think it’s just the ability to stay up and about for as long as you can and grind it out.
“You’ve got to be able to grit your teeth, keep trying to build dot ball pressure.
“It’s the same with the bat,
there are going to be periods of the game where the bowling team is on top, but you’ve got to have that frame of mind to get through the tough periods of time.
“We know how to play it and we’re looking forward to it.”
McNamara said they would be looking to take an unchanged XI from the white-
ball matches into the twodayers, citing adaptability and variety within the squad.
“I think we can adapt pretty well as players and a team, to switch from one-dayers to two-day cricket,” he said.
“We’ve got a good variety of players that can do both really well and can change batting pace, they can bat slow and go quick.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
CITY Colts’ Josh Nanson is keen for the return of red-ball cricket.
The WDCA A grade season is moving into two-day cricket at the back end of the year, with four longformat matches remaining before nals.
The Colts have had an up and down run with the short format, currently sitting h on the overall ladder with 61.7 points and a record of 4-5.
“Everyone’s keen to bowl with the red ball and face it,” Nanson said.
“It’s a bit cruisier of a format, you’re not in as much of a hurry to make runs, it’s a bit cruisier with the bat.
“We’re good at both, we’ve just had a bit of a tough run with the one-dayers.
“Hopefully we can get stuck into the two-dayers, get some good results in these last few rounds.” Nanson, who will take over captaincy of the Colts from Mitch Giggins for the rest of the season, said he’s ready to step up.
“Mitch has got a few things on at home, so I’m happy to take over,” he said.
“It’s pretty easy because I’m one of the younger boys.
“I know how to get along a bit better with the young boys, I know what’s going through their heads.
“They de nitely make it a lot easier for me.”
“It changes a bit, but not a heap – the plan is to still try and bat your overs and bowl your line and length all day.
“We’re still backing the boys to nish o the season really well.”
Rovers United Bruck hosts Yarrawong Mulwala for the rst week of their two-dayer this Saturday, January 25, at WJ Findlay Oval from 1pm.
NANSON TO SKIPPER COLTS AGAINST WANDERERS
We need to execute with the ball and bat – we’re as good as any team, we just need to put it together.
- CITY COLTS’ JOSH NANSON
The Colts face an alwaysdangerous Beechworth Wanderers out t up at Baarmutha Park, where the home side has won their last two matches.
“I’m not sure about where they’ll be vulnerable, but we stack up against any team,” Nanson said.
“We need to execute with the ball and bat – we’re as good as any team, we just need to put it together.
“With the ball, I feel like it won’t change as much – we’ll keep hitting our lines and lengths – and with the bat, we’ve just got to be a bit smarter and hang around longer.
“It’ll be a good test for them, that’s for sure.”
Elsewhere, Ovens Valley United will be looking to recapture some consistent form when they host the winless Benalla Bushrangers.
The Tigers have struggled to string consistent results together,
and sit middle of the pack but are still an outside chance of making nals.
To do so, they must defeat Benalla this weekend – but the match-up on paper is far from favourable for Ovens Valley.
Bushrangers skipper and opening bat Brayden Stepien is the sleeping tiger of the competition, and he has started to wake.
A er ve lean innings at the start of the year, which saw him make just 61 runs at 12.20, Stepien has stepped it up in the last fortnight, belting 132 runs averaging 66, and striking at 125.71.
An innings from him, and the Tigers may be batted out of the match in an instant.
Ovens Valley United host Benalla Bushrangers at McNamara Reserve for their two-day xture, commencing this Saturday.
STEPPING UP: Josh Nanson will look to lead the Colts to a massive victory over Beechworth Wanderers over the next two weekends.
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
WILLOW WIZARD: Opener Charith Perera looms as a key part of the Hawks’ two-day set-up.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
SET TO SPRINT
Local runners Sam Comensoli (le ) and Christian Pasquali will put it all on the line this Saturday at the 104th Wangaratta Sports Carnival at the Showgrounds. The day commences with woodchopping from 10.30am, while the athletics program begins from 2.30pm.
■ Stories page 30.
Years in operation: We have been trading for over 40 years now.
Opening Hours: 8am til 5pm Monday to Friday & 8.30am til 12 noon Saturday.
RECORD ENTRIES
409 players registered for annual WLTCP competition this long weekend
Who’s who at Wangaratta Bearings and Industrial Supplies: (left to right)
Danni Barber, Greg Oates, Brendon French, Dylan Fishcher, Greg Baker, Tony Gigliotti, Chris McInnes – Manager, Craig Fruend, Donna McInnes, Richard Nunn, Jodie Edwards.
We guarantee:
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
event for everybody to come down and take a look.”
Describe your eld of expertise: Ability to supply anything automotive,mechanical or industrial.
THE biggest weekend on the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s (WLTCP) calendar is nally here, with their annual Gateway Australia Day Tournament set to commence on Saturday. Sponsored by Quality Hotel Gateway Wangaratta and Johansen Insurance Brokers, the club’s three-day tennis extravaganza brings some of the best and most talented tennis players to Wangaratta to try and prove they’re the best, all in a fun and family friendly atmosphere.
This year, entries have broken all records, with a whopping 409 separate players set to descend on the grass courts at Merriwa Park across the long weekend, with many entered in multiple events.
Sunday – and a forecast 41 degree Monday - WLTCP president Barry Sullivan said the weekend was shaping up to be an incredible experience.
that’s out of our control but it looks like it’s going to be OK, maybe a little bit warm on the Monday, but aside from that, everything is pretty much in order.
“We are so pleased to have record entry levels, the courts are going to be in fantastic shape,” he said.
The highlight of the tournament is the battle for the men’s and women’s Open Singles crowns, for the glory and the prizemoney which come with it.
“On the men’s side of things, it is wide open,” he said.
Did you know? We are now the North East distributors for WIA welding consumables & machines, Festool concrete machines and tools.We keep all trailer parts, Unimig welders, pure gas oxy/ LPG / acetylene / argon cylinders, Evakool esky’s and 12 volt fridges, Fuchs oil, Terrain Tamer 4WD parts, Donaldson, Wix and Ryco Filters.
Despite some warm weather in excess of 30 degrees on Saturday and
FULL RANGE
“There’s always been a building interest over the last few years - friends tell their friends, I think it grows organically in that way.
“The weather is something
“We’ve got all the kiosk food being ordered, we’ve got co ee vans, ice cream vans, we’ve got the famous Minnesota Mike’s rib dinner on the Sunday night kicking o around 6pm.
“We’ve got a fantastic schedule of play all three days - it should be a fantastic
CAPTAIN TANKS IN STOCK
The club is o ering $1200 for the winner of the men’s and women’s title, with runners up collecting $400 and losing semi- nalists $100.
Sullivan said there were some talented players entered.
“We’ve had the finalists for the last couple of years, Matt Peart and David Hough, but we’ve also got other entrants we haven’t had before including Jeremy Taylor, who’s probably the highest UTR (Universal Tennis Rating) ranked player we’ve had at the tournament for a number of years.
■ Continued page 29
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling